bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longevous Protic Hybrid Supercapacitors Using Bimetallic Prussian Blue Analogue/rGO‐Based Nanocomposite Against MXene Anode
Authors: Stephanie Ruth , Park Chan Yeong , Hyun Moon Seop , Ghaferi Amal Al , Han Hee , Alhajri Ebrahim , Chodankar Nilesh R , Park Tae Jung
Published: September 2024

MXenes exhibit a unique combination of properties—2D structure, high conductivity, exceptional capacity, and chemical resistance—making them promising candidates for hybrid supercapacitors (HSCs). However, the development of MXene‐based HSCs is often hindered by the limited availability of cathode materials that deliver comparable electrochemical performance, especially in protic electrolytes. In this study, this challenge is addressed by introducing a durable protic HSC utilizing a bimetallic Prussian Blue Analogue (PBA) decorated on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as a nanocomposite cathode paired with a single‐layered Ti3C2Tx MXene (SL‐MXene) anode. The bimetallic PBA, specifically nickel hexacyanocobaltate (NiHCC), is utilized by virtue of its open and stable structure that facilitates efficient charge storage, leading to enhanced stability and energy storage capabilities. The resulting NiHCC/rGO//SL‐MXene cell demonstrates impressive performance, achieving a maximum specific energy of 38.03 Wh kg−1 and a power density of 20 666.67 W kg−1. Remarkably, the NiHCC/rGO//SL‐MXene HSC cell also exhibits excellent cycling stability without any loss even after 15 000 cycles while retaining ≈100% coulombic efficiency. This work underscores the potential of bimetallic PBA materials with conductive rGO backbone for overcoming the limitations of current MXene‐based protic HSCs, highlighting the significance of this work.
Compositional Engineering of Lithium Metal Anode for High‐Performance Garnet‐Type Solid‐State Lithium Battery
Authors: Kong Wenhan , Wang Suqing , Liu Haixing , Liu Yangxi , Jiang Zhouyang , Mai Xiuqiong , Wang Haihui
Published: September 2024

Garnet‐type solid‐state lithium batteries (SSLBs) possess excellent potential owing to their safety and high energy density. However, fundamental barriers are deficient cycling stability and poor rate capability. The main concern lies in generating voids at the Li|garnet interface during Li stripping, stemming from the sluggish diffusion of Li atoms inside the bulk Li metal. Herein, a composite anode (AN@Li) containing Li–Al alloy, Li3N, and LiNO2 is designed by introducing aluminum nitrate into molten Li. The lower interfacial formation energies exhibited by Li–Al alloy, Li3N, and LiNO2 with garnet solid‐state electrolyte (SSE) enhance the wettability of AN@Li toward SSE. Meanwhile, it affords efficient conductive pathways that facilitate Li+ diffusion in the bulk anode (not just on the surface). Impressively, the resulting symmetric cell with AN@Li electrodes achieves high critical current density (1.95 mA cm−2) and long cycle life (6000 h at 0.3 mA cm−2). The SSLB coupled with LiFePO4 cathode and AN@Li anode enables stable cycling for 200 cycles at a high rate of 1 C with a retention of 96% and exhibiting outstanding rate capability (145.9 mAh g−1 at 2 C). This work provides practical insights for producing high‐performance lithium metal anode for advanced garnet‐type SSLBs.
Computer Networks Cybersecurity Monitoring Based on Deep Learning Model
Authors: Alguliyev Rasim , Shikhaliyev Ramiz
Published: September 2024

Effective cybersecurity monitoring is essential for safeguarding computer networks against evolving threats. However, the increasing scale, complexity, and data volume of modern networks pose significant challenges to traditional monitoring methods. To address these challenges, this article proposes a deep learning‐based approach for computer network cybersecurity monitoring. Leveraging the MnasNet‐LSTM model, network traffic data is classified into distinct categories, including normal traffic and cyberattacks. The model is trained using the CICIDS2017 dataset, yielding promising results with a classification accuracy of approximately 97.05% and a minimal error rate of 8.46%.
Detection of tendon breaks in prestressed concrete structures using coda wave interferometry
Authors: Sträter Noah , Clauß Felix , Ahrens Mark Alexander , Mark Peter
Published: September 2024

Tendon breaks significantly threaten the safety of prestressed concrete structures. Failure of embedded tendons does not necessarily indicate as surface cracks, demonstrating the need for early detection methods. This paper presents a novel ultrasound‐based approach for detecting and localizing tendon breaks using coda wave interferometry. Already few embedded ultrasonic transducers form a robust monitoring network able to detect subtle changes in the structure. To demonstrate the feasibility of detecting tendon breaks, a post‐tensioned concrete beam was fabricated at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany. A break of a centric and eccentric tendon was artificially created by drilling from the outside. Both were successfully detected and localized through characteristic changes in the ultrasound results without any evidence of damage on the concrete surface. Measurements with fiber optic sensors validate the ultrasonic findings and provide insights into the re‐anchoring behavior after tendon failure.
Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Sambucus nigra on superficial digital flexor tendon repair in rabbit by ultrasonography and histopathology
Authors: Asgari Niusha , Moghtadaei‐Khorasgani Elham , Yadegari Mehrdad , Taheri‐Boroujeni Omid
Published: September 2024

Background

Adult tendon tissue has limited and slow regenerative capacity. Sambucus nigra plant possesses antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory attributes.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of this plant's fruit on superficial digital flexor tendon repair in rabbits (SDFT).

Methods

Twenty‐five male New Zealand white rabbits weighing 1.5–2 kg were selected, quarantined and randomly divided into four groups of six. By performing a partial left posterior limb tenotomy, differentiating the SDFT and creating multiple scrapes were performed. During 3 consecutive days post‐surgery, the positive control group was injected with 0.5 mg/kg dexamethasone, whereas the treatment groups received extract doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. The negative control group did not receive any medication. Evaluation of sonographic and histopathological parameters was conducted on days 0, 7 and 28 post‐surgeries. Findings were analysed and compared using SPSS22.

Results

Both treatment groups showed significant differences in echogenicity, and collagen fibre alignment compared to the control and positive control groups, in sonographic evaluation. Histopathological examination revealed fewer inflammatory cells and increased collagen fibre formation in the treatment groups compared to the other two groups. No significant difference in angiogenesis was observed among the groups on days 7 and 28 (p value <0.05).

Conclusions

The results indicate that the S. nigra fruit extract, by stimulating collagen synthesis and reducing inflammation, effectively accelerates the healing process of injured tendons.
Study on fungal contaminants in aborted calves of cattle herds in Iran
Authors: Eidi Samaneh , Seifi Hesam A. , Sadr Soheil , Zeinali Hamideh
Published: September 2024

Background/Objective

Abortions in livestock herds are a major contributor to economic losses. The incidence of fungal aetiology has been reported thus far. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of abortions due to fungi in referred cases to the Center of Excellence in Ruminant Abortion and Neonatal Mortality, Veterinary Hospital of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran, from different provinces of Iran.

Methods

A total of 200 calves were referred between 2018 and 2022. Samples were taken from the lungs, liver, spleen and abomasum. The fungi present in the cultures were analysed microscopically and morphologically.

Results

There were varying contamination levels in the liver, spleen and lungs, with prevalence ranging from 15% to 17%. Abdomasum had a 1% prevalence rate. Different fungal species, including Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans), Aspergillus spp., Rhodotorula spp., Trichosporon spp., Candida spp., Geotrichum spp., Penicillium spp. and Mucor spp., were identified, indicating a diverse range of pathogens affecting calves. The specificity of fungal contaminants in certain organs, such as C. neoformans, Rhodotorula spp. and Trichosporon spp., highlighted the organ's microenvironment as a potential factor influencing fungal growth.

Conclusion

As fungi are emerging as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in animals, the growing role of fungi in livestock abortions should be investigated. As clinical signs are not pathognomonic, laboratory help is imperative to confirm fungal abortion diagnosis.
Uganda
Authors: Kuria Shiphrah , Lambert-Peck Miles , Kapsandui Tonny , Ferguson Laura
Published: September 2024

The chapter highlights the cost of the pandemic by showing that the lack of recognition of existing inequalities and the needs of vulnerable and marginalized groups subjected them to a higher risk of infection and undermined the broader response to Covid-19. It is clear that Covid-19 disproportionately affected people who were already vulnerable due to comorbidities that are often a result of pre-existing social inequalities. But Covid-19 mitigation and policy responses have also entrenched them. The chapter shows that some response measures and their inadequacy hampered access to mitigation measures. It is recommended to decentralize resource allocation and proper targeting of the most vulnerable, namely, women, informal sector workers, people living with HIV and other diseases, pregnant women, children, the poor, refugees, and people living with disability.
Recommendations and Reflections
Authors: Altaf Anika , Tsikata Dzodzi , Torvikey Gertrude Dzifa , Dekker Marleen
Published: September 2024

Although the pandemic itself is no longer considered a global threat, the aftermath for the African continent unequivocally is. While some of the studies suggested ways to alleviate part of the harmful remnants of COVID-19, lessons that can be drawn are predominantly warnings for future disruptive changes and crises. During COVID-19, the vision of “building back better” was heard loudly within and outside of the development realm. Yet getting back to business as usual quickly overshadowed this aspiration. This chapter provides reflections and recommendations for future shocks and crises such as the pandemic.
Foresight: Fifty Years to Think Your Futures
Authors: Cuhls Kerstin , Dönitz Ewa , Erdmann Lorenz , Gransche Bruno , Kimpeler Simone , Schirrmeister Elna , Warnke Philine
Published: September 2024

Foresight started with the notion of (Science and) Technology Foresight as a part of Technology Assessment (TA) but is now an independent scientific area. For a long time, Foresight mainly aimed at detecting determined futures but has developed into different directions under different headings. Most processes make use of a combination of methods to explore and develop different possible, probable or desirable futures. Foresight is more and more embedded in different institutions. There, it is carried out together with clients, and serves their specific purposes in the preparation of decision-making or science, technology and innovation policies. It offers the space to bring the different actors in the respective innovation system together. Foresight concepts are more and more accepted, and the results are distributed and used—in companies, ministries, associations, NGOs or the European Commission. Our contribution describes how Foresight has changed during the last 50 years and explains some of the aspects researchers have addressed. We conclude by highlighting two crosscutting emerging dimensions of change in Foresight, i.e. the engagement with transformative, mission-oriented agendas and the meaningful integration of machine-based approaches. Foresighters have to be aware that not only the results of their projects change but also the methods and the actors who work with them.
Clinical outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention for severely calcified lesions: comparison between the morphologies of severely calcified coronary lesions
Authors: Suzuki Yoriyasu , Uehara Masahiro , Ando Hirohiko , Suzuki Akihiro , Murata Akira , Matsuda Hiroaki , Tokuda Takahiro , Amano Tetsuya
Published: September 2024

Existing studies evaluating the comparison of clinical outcome of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for severe calcified coronary lesions are limited, and the clinical outcomes of PCI for different morphologies of calcified lesions are controversial. Overall, consecutive 576 lesions with severe calcification that were treated with PCI from 2010 to 2021 at Nagoya Heart Center were investigated. All lesions were assessed using invasive coronary angiogram (CAG) or computed tomography-CAG at 12 months after DES implantation. We divided the patients into three groups based on the results of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging (concentric calcified lesion [CC] n = 273, eccentric calcified lesion [EC] n = 217, calcified nodule [CN] n = 86). The clinical and angiographic outcomes of each group were investigated retrospectively to compare the prognosis between the three groups and identify predictive factors for the device-oriented composite end points (DoCE). There were no differences in patient characteristics among the three groups, except that there were significantly more patients on dialysis in the CN group. The incidence of DoCE was significantly higher in the CN group than in the other groups (CC; 18.3% vs. EC; 23.5% vs. CN; 36.0%; Log-Rank test; p = 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that the independent predictors of DoCE were CN, insulin use, hemodialysis, right coronary artery lesions, and calcium cracks. The incidence of DoCE was significantly higher in the CN group. Calcium cracks are crucial for improving outcomes in severely calcified lesions, being key predictors of DoCE.
Bacterial adhesion and surface roughness of particulate-filled and short fiber-reinforced composites
Authors: Lassila L. , Loimaranta V. , Vallittu P. K. , Garoushi S.
Published: September 2024

The objective of the study was to assess the initial adhesion of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and surface roughness of different particulate-filled (PFC) and short fiber-reinforced (SFRC) composites. Five PFC composites (CeramX Universal, Filtek Universal, Omnichroma, Tetric Prime and Venus Diamond) and four SFRC composites (everX Posterior, everX Flow Bulk, everX Flow Dentin and experimental packable SFRC) were tested in this study. A non-contact 3D profilometer was employed to assess the surface roughness (Ra) of the polished specimens (using 4000-grit abrasive paper). For the bacterial adhesion test, the specimens (n = 5/group) were immersed in a solution of S. mutans to facilitate initial adhesion. To determine the number of cells on the surfaces of the discs as colony-forming units (CFU), the vials holding the microbial samples were highly agitated using a vortex machine. Subsequently, the samples were diluted multiple times and anaerobically incubated for 48 h at 37 °C on Mitis Salivarius Agar plates (Difco) supplemented with bacitracin. Bacterial adherence assessment was performed using SEM. The data were analyzed using ANOVA. All tested PFC and SFRC composites showed similar adhesion of S. mutan. The lowest Ra values (0.26 µm) (p < 0.05) were found in the flowable SFRCs (everX Flow Bulk & Dentin), while the highest values (p < 0.05) were observed in CeramX and everX Posterior (0.42 µm). Experimental SFRC had comparable Ra value (0.38 µm) than other commercial composites. The presence of short microfibers in the composite appeared to have no adverse effects on the initial adhesion of bacteria or the surface roughness.
Enthalpies and entropies of sublimation and vaporization of aza crown ethers and cryptands measured by TGA
Authors: Esparza-Rivera Daniel , Treviño-Kauffmann Marco Antonio , Rojas Aarón
Published: September 2024

In this work, the solid–gas and liquid–gas change of phase enthalpies of three aza crown ethers and two cryptands are derived from thermogravimetric data. For each of the compounds under study, the mass loss rate, dm/dt, was measured by isothermal thermogravimetry, then Pieterse and Focke equation combined with that of Clausius–Clapeyron was applied to correlate mass loss rate with temperature and to derive the respective vaporization or sublimation enthalpies at the experimental temperature and at 298.15 K. Such enthalpies are reported with the derived entropies and Gibbs energies of change of phase for the analyzed compounds. The results show a general trend of increasing value of the thermodynamic property as the number of the nitrogen atoms increases in the molecular structure of the macrocycle.
Molecular Dynamic Simulations Reveal that Water-Soluble QTY-Variants of Glutamate Transporters EAA1, EAA2 and EAA3 Retain the Conformational Characteristics of Native Transporters
Authors: Karagöl Alper , Karagöl Taner , Zhang Shuguang
Published: September 2024

Objective

Glutamate transporters play a crucial role in neurotransmitter homeostasis, but studying their structure and function is challenging due to their membrane-bound nature. This study aims to investigate whether water-soluble QTY-variants of glutamate transporters EAA1, EAA2 and EAA3 retain the conformational characteristics and dynamics of native membrane-bound transporters.

Methods

Molecular dynamics simulations and comparative genomics were used to analyze the structural dynamics of both native transporters and their QTY-variants. Native transporters were simulated in lipid bilayers, while QTY-variants were simulated in aqueous solution. Lipid distortions, relative solvent accessibilities, and conformational changes were examined. Evolutionary conservation profiles were correlated with structural dynamics. Statistical analyses included multivariate analysis to account for confounding variables.

Results

QTY-variants exhibited similar residue-wise conformational dynamics to their native counterparts, with correlation coefficients of 0.73 and 0.56 for EAA1 and EAA3, respectively (p < 0.001). Hydrophobic interactions of native helices correlated with water interactions of QTY- helices (rs = 0.4753, p < 0.001 for EAA1). QTY-variants underwent conformational changes resembling the outward-to-inward transition of native transporters.

Conclusions

Water-soluble QTY-variants retain key structural properties of native glutamate transporters and mimic aspects of native lipid interactions, including conformational flexibility. This research provides valuable insights into the conformational changes and molecular mechanisms of glutamate transport, potentially offering a new approach for studying membrane protein dynamics and drug interactions.
Ethanol from Bagasse Obtained During Non-centrifuged Sugar Production. A Comprehensive Sustainability Analysis in the Colombian Context
Authors: Piedrahita-Rodríguez S. , Ortiz-Sánchez M. , Higuita Vásquez J. C. , Cardona Alzate C. A.
Published: September 2024

The production of biofuels is an alternative to reduce the impacts of the transformation of fossil fuel sources. In this work, the evaluation of ethanol production from the bagasse obtained during non-centrifuged sugar production (BNCS) to determine its sustainability in the Colombian context is proposed. Two pretreatments (i.e., dilute acid and alkaline) are proposed, followed by enzymatic saccharification to release glucose from cellulose. Both liquors rich in C6 sugars were followed by a fermentation stage with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and the obtained ethanol concentration was measured. The process was simulated and evaluated to obtain metrics in technical, economic, environmental, and social terms. Also, an evaluation of the sustainability index of the process in the Colombian context was proposed. Diluted acid was the best processing pretreatment, reaching glucose and xylose concentrations of 15.13 g/L, and 12.15 g/L respectively, and a final ethanol concentration of 3.45 g/L. The technical analysis yielded results for Process Mass Intensity (PMI) of 38.14 and Renewable Material Index (RMI) of 5.09. The minimum process scale for economic feasibility (MPSEF) was 19.6 Ton/h. In this sense, the payback period and turnover ratio were 12 years and 35.01%, respectively. Values of 1.85 kg CO2 eq/kg ethanol for carbon footprint and 1.02 m3/kg ethanol for water depletion were also obtained. For the social analysis, the minimum-to-living wage ratio (M/L) was 1.03. Finally, the sustainability index was 75.19%, and the social and environmental values were the most influential aspects affecting the sustainability index. The results of this work allows a novelty vision related to the integral analysis of sustainability for one of Colombia’s native raw materials, and to propose viable solutions for its use, without threatening food security.

Graphical Abstract
Manganese Oxide Applications in Sulfonamides Electrochemical, Thermal and Optical Sensors: A Short Review
Authors: Mokaba Pheladi L. , Gazu Nolwazi T. , Makinita Marang L. , Mthombeni Nomcebo H. , Ntola Pinkie , Feleni Usisipho
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the development of highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensors has been a pivotal area of research, driven by the growing demand for environmental monitoring and industrial process control. Among various materials investigated for sensor applications, manganese oxide (MnO2) nanoparticles have garnered significant attention due to their excellent electrochemical properties, environmental friendliness, and natural abundance. Critical analyses of the synthesis of MnO2 using different techniques such as hydrothermal method, chemical precipitation, and sol–gel process which allows for the fine-tuning of particle size and morphology while enhancing the electrochemical sensing capabilities have been reviewed. The review also provides a comprehensive overview of the recent advancement evaluation of manganese oxide-based electrodes for detecting sulfonamides and other analytes in water across diverse matrices. This paper sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the synthesis methods and application areas of MnO2 nanoparticles in electrochemical sensors, highlighting their role in advancing sensor technology and their impact on various sectors.

Graphical Abstract
Medical Toxicology vs. Emergency Medicine and Internal Medicine — Are We Really Full of Case Reports?
Authors: Hack Jason B. , O’Brien Kevin F.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Case reports are perceived as having diminished value relative to other study designs. It has been said that medical toxicology (MT) is based largely upon case report literature and thought to be unique in this regard. We sought to quantify recent MT publication of case reports compared with top periodicals from emergency medicine (EM) and internal medicine (IM) journals.

Methods

A retrospective review examined 5 years of articles in 6 U.S.-based medical journals–MT (Journal of Medical Toxicology, Clinical Toxicology), EM (Annals of Emergency Medicine, Journal of Emergency Medicine), and IM (JAMA Internal Medicine, New England Journal of Medicine) was performed using on-line resources. Every article in each issue was categorized into Case report vs. Research and Analysis articles vs. Excluded. “Case report” was defined as one (or ≤ 5) individual patients, one patient’s data, etc. Total articles per issue were reported after removing Excluded items.

Results

Between 2018 and 2022, these 6 periodicals published 522 issues; with 2644 case reports; and 8246 total included articles. Comparison of MT case reports vs. EM revealed a significant difference and odds (Odds Ratio = 1.7, (95% CI: [1.49, 2.03], p < 0.001); MT compared with IM was not significantly different (Odds Ratio = 1.1, (95% CI: [0.96, 1.30], p = 0.150). The percent of case reports increased in the IM and EM journals compared with a relative decrease in the MT journals. Cumulative case report precents were consistently greater in EM and IM than in MT.

Conclusion

In the past 5 years, MT journals published fewer and had a declining trend of case reports compared with leading EM and IM journals. Future research is needed to determine the effect on MT practice resulting from the diminished body of case report literature.
Diallyl disulfide attenuates hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative damage of ovine rumen epithelial cells through the nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 signaling pathway
Authors: Pang Rui , Zhang Qingyue , Wang Yuxin , Dong Xiaona , Huang Li , Tang Yingying , Ren Chunhuan , Xue Yanfeng , Zhang Zijun , Zhu Wen
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the impact of diallyl disulfide (DADS) on oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in ovine rumen epithelial cells (RECs). Initially, the effects of DADS were evaluated on cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, antioxidant capacity in RECs were estimated. Then, RNA-seq analysis was conducted in DADS-treated and untreated cells to analyze the differential gene expression, as well as Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Finally, the effects of DADS on Kelch-like ECH associated protein 1/the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Keap1/Nrf2) signaling pathway in RECs were evaluated. Results showed that DADS remarkably enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (P < 0.05) while reducing ROS and malonaldehyde production (P < 0.05) in H2O2-treated RECs. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that DADS might influence glutathione synthesis through cysteine and methionine metabolism, thereby affecting the transcription of genes involved in immunity and oxidative stress. The DADS treatment resulted in increased nuclear translocation of Nrf2 and upregulation of mRNA and protein levels of quinone oxidoreductase 1, heme oxygenase 1, and Nrf2. The Nrf2-specific inhibitor nullified the protective effects of DADS on malonaldehyde formation induced by H2O2 and decreased T-AOC and SOD activities. In conclusion, DADS demonstrated the ability to alleviate oxidative stress in RECs by promoting antioxidative capacity through the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Assessing the impact of discontinuation of formulary prior authorization on antibiotic prescribing
Authors: Zeggil Teagan , Nickonchuk Tony , Rennert-May Elissa , Rajakumar Irina
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To compare prescribing patterns of restricted antimicrobials before and after the removal of prior authorization and to develop a prospective audit and feedback program to mitigate the potential inappropriate prescribing of these antimicrobials.

Methods:

An interrupted time-series analysis assessing the trends in antibiotic use was conducted between May 2020 and February 2023 in large urban hospitals, where all ASP activities were discontinued in May 2022 and a pilot prospective audit and feedback (PAF) program was initiated in January 2023.

Results:

The collective change in restricted antibiotic utilization after the removal of prior authorization was trending towards increased utilization but was not statistically significant. With the PAF program, 9.8% of patients were identified by the antimicrobial stewardship pharmacists as requiring intervention. Within these patients, 19 different recommendations were made, with the most common being to narrow the therapeutic spectrum (47.4%). Stewardship interventions suggestions were accepted (full and partial) 69.2% of the time.

Conclusions:

Although there were some small statistically significant changes detected for a few antibiotics, there were no situations where those changes remained significant after appropriate controls were added to the analyses. As such, the intervention may not have had any statistically significant impact on DDDs of the studied antibiotics.
ATXN3: a multifunctional protein involved in the polyglutamine disease spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Hernández-Carralero Esperanza , Quinet Grégoire , Freire Raimundo
Published: September 2024

ATXN3 is a ubiquitin hydrolase (or deubiquitinase, DUB), product of the ATXN3 gene, ubiquitously expressed in various cell types including peripheral and neuronal tissues and involved in several cellular pathways. Importantly, the expansion of the CAG trinucleotides within the ATXN3 gene leads to an expanded polyglutamine domain in the encoded protein, which has been associated with the onset of the spinocerebellar ataxia type 3, also known as Machado–Joseph disease, the most common dominantly inherited ataxia worldwide. ATXN3 has therefore been under intensive investigation for decades. In this review, we summarize the main functions of ATXN3 in proteostasis, DNA repair and transcriptional regulation, as well as the emerging role in regulating chromatin structure. The mentioned molecular functions of ATXN3 are also reviewed in the context of the pathological expanded form of ATXN3.
Regulating ESG Rating and Data Product Providers: Critically Examining EU Regulation through the Lens of Functional Regulatory Consistency
Authors: Chiu Iris H.-Y.
Published: September 2024

The expansion of EU regulatory governance in the financial sector since the end of the global financial crisis 2008 has given rise to the need to examine regulatory consistency in the volumes of financial regulation that may have cross-cutting implications. In this light, this article examines the effectiveness of the Regulation of ESG infomediaries through the lens of “functional regulatory consistency” with other infomediary regulations, for credit rating agencies and stock market benchmarks. It argues that this lens most aptly reveals the three key weaknesses of the regulatory regime for ESG infomediaries. These relate to sub-optimal coverage of scope, over-inclusiveness in the application of regulatory standards and under-inclusiveness where appropriate governance is not provided. the sub-optimal coverage of scope raises the question of whether ESG stock market index providers should indeed be regulated as ESG infomediaries or as stock market benchmarks more generally falling within the Benchmarks Regulation 2016. Over-inclusiveness and under-inclusiveness in the regulatory provision reflects blind spots in applying functional regulatory consistency, where it is inappropriate due to distinguishing features in business models, market structures or market relations.
The use of patterned heating in controlling pressure losses within sloping channels
Authors: Floryan J.M. , Wang W. , Bassom Andrew P.
Published: September 2024

The effectiveness of utilizing heating patterns as a drag-reduction tool in sloping channels is analysed. The usefulness of heating is judged by determining the pressure gradient required to maintain the same flow rate as in the isothermal case. The key to reducing pressure loss is the formation of separation bubbles, although these bubbles are washed away at relatively large Reynolds numbers. The bubbles reduce the direct contact between the stream and the side walls, thereby reducing the friction experienced by the flow. Moreover, the fluid inside the bubbles tends to rotate, a motion provoked by longitudinal temperature gradients. This rotation also seems to reduce the resistance. On the other hand, the existence of the bubbles tends to obstruct the stream, increasing the flow resistance. In general, channels oriented close to horizontal experience a relatively small pressure loss, but this loss grows markedly as the channel inclines towards the vertical. When modest heating is applied, the pressure loss is approximately proportional to the square of the associated Rayleigh number. It is also shown that if the heating wavelength is too short or too long, the heating loses its effectiveness. In certain circumstances, it turns out that the theoretical pressure-gradient reduction achieved by judicious heating is so large that it exceeds the pressure gradient required to drive the flow in the isothermal problem. The conclusion is that in these instances, a pressure gradient of the opposite sign must be applied to prevent flow acceleration.
Scaling of vertical coherence and logarithmic energy profile for wall-attached eddies during sand and dust storms
Authors: Li Xuebo , Hu Lan , Hu Xin , Liu Wanting
Published: September 2024

High-frequency observation data, including all three components of instantaneous fluctuating velocity, temperature, as well as particulate matter 10 (

$PM_{10}$

), collected from the unstable atmospheric surface layer at

$z/L = -0.11$

and

$-$

0.12,

$L$

being the Obukhov length, during sand and dust storms (SDS), were used to explore the scaling of vertical coherence and the logarithmic energy profile for wall-attached eddies. The present results demonstrate good agreement with the self-similar range of the wall-attached features for velocity and temperature components, as well as for

$PM_{10}$

at lower heights (

$z<15$

m) during SDS. Following the idea depicted by Davenport (Q. J. R. Meteorol., vol. 372, 1961, pp. 194–211), an empirically derived transfer kernel comprises implicit filtering via a scale-dependent gain and phase, parametrically defined as

$|H_L^2(f)|=\exp (c_1-c_2\delta /\lambda _x)$

, where

$c_1$

and

$c_2$

are parameters,

$\delta$

is the boundary layer thickness and

$\lambda _x$

is the streamwise wavelength. Linear coherence spectrum analysis is applied as a filter to separate the coherent and incoherent portions. After this separation procedure, the turbulence intensity decay for wall-attached eddies is described in a log–linear manner, which also identifies how the scaling parameter differs between the measured components. These findings present abundant features of wall-attached eddies during SDS which further are used to improve/enrich existing near-wall models.
The Journal of Law and Religion—Second Life
Authors: Failinger Marie A.
Published: September 2024

After its initial founding by the Council on Religion and Law at Harvard, the Journal of Law and Religion had its first life at Hamline University School of Law beginning in 1983. This essay is a history of its second life—from 1987/1988 to 2013—describing the vision and the people who pursued that vision through the journal in those years and some of the roundtables and symposia it published.
Using co-design to identify intervention components to address unhealthy dietary and activity behaviours in New Zealand South Asians
Authors: Parackal Sherly , Akhtar Sumera Saeed , Yadav Sivamanoj , Brown Rachel
Published: September 2024

There is an urgent need to develop sustainable and impactful interventions to mitigate the high risk of diet-related non-communicable diseases (diet-NCDs) in South Asians living in high-income countries. The current study using a co-design methodology aimed to identify community-led intervention components (solutions) to address barriers and enablers of disease-promoting dietary and physical activity behaviours in New Zealand South Asians. Data were collected from South Asian immigrants aged 25–59 years via three focus group discussions (n = 21) and 10 telephone or face-to-face interviews between 2018 and 2019. The thematic analysis resulted in identifying 22 barrier and enabler codes and 12 solution codes which were summarised under five themes. The key solutions (intervention components) to mitigate the identified target behaviours were providing recipes for using local vegetables in South Asian cuisine, information on the nutritional quality of frozen vegetables and canned lentils, simple home gardening techniques, the saturated fat content of dairy foods, interpreting nutrition labels, optimal portion sizes of foods, and framing low-fat messages positively. Similarly, group-based activities with peer support such as walking, cultural dancing and community sports like cricket, football, and tennis were the identified solutions to increase physical activity levels. The identified solutions for health promoting dietary habits and physical activity levels could be part of any targeted multicomponent health promoting programme to reduce the risk of diet-NCDs in South Asian immigrants.
Surface energy balance closure over melting snow and ice from in situ measurements on the Greenland ice sheet
Authors: van Tiggelen Maurice , Smeets Paul C. J. P. , Reijmer Carleen H. , van As Dirk , Box Jason E. , Fausto Robert S. , Khan Shfaqat Abbas , Rignot Eric , van den Broeke Michiel R.
Published: September 2024

Accurately quantifying all the components of the surface energy balance (SEB) is a prerequisite for the reliable estimation of surface melt and the surface mass balance over ice and snow. This study quantifies the SEB closure by comparing the energy available for surface melt, determined from continuous measurements of radiative fluxes and turbulent heat fluxes, to the surface ablation measured on the Greenland ice sheet between 2003 and 2023. We find that the measured daily energy available for surface melt exceeds the observed surface melt by on average 18 ± 30 W m−2 for snow and 12 ± 54 W m−2 for ice conditions (mean ± SD), which corresponds to 46 and 10% of the average energy available for surface melt, respectively. When the surface is not melting, the daily SEB is on average closed within 5 W m−2. Based on the inter-comparison of different ablation sensors and radiometers installed on different stations, and on the evaluation of modelled turbulent heat fluxes, we conclude that measurement uncertainties prevent a better daily to sub-daily SEB closure. These results highlight the need and challenges in obtaining accurate long-term in situ SEB observations for the proper evaluation of climate models and for the validation of remote sensing products.
The Brussels effect in Ankara: the case of climate policy
Authors: Korkmaz Tümer Elif , van Zeben Josephine
Published: September 2024

Turkey’s Europeanization process provides a particularly interesting case study of the extra-jurisdictional impact of European Union (EU) law, both through policy convergence and through the so-called Brussels effect. Formally, Turkey must adopt certain EU rules due to its status as an EU candidate country, but its candidacy process has been lengthy and uncertain, resulting in partial and uneven adoption of EU rules. Nevertheless, EU-style policymaking has persisted in various policy areas, including environmental and climate policy. This paper aims to analyze the convergence of climate change policies between the EU and Turkey by employing multidimensional scaling, a method that enables the visualization and examination of the connectivity and intensity of cooperation between states. For the period from 2007 to 2023, our comparative analysis demonstrates that policy divergence occurs when the EU’s share of Turkey’s total trade decreases and when political challenges are experienced. On the other hand, periods of policy convergence coincide with periods of increased trade volume and expanded trade opportunities. The results suggest that through its market size and regulatory capacity, the EU exerts soft power which forces Turkey to align its climate policies with the EU to protect and maintain its competitiveness in the European marketplace.
Successful diagnosis and treatment of Borrelia miyamotoi in a patient with joint and muscle pains, ME/CFS and cognitive dysfunction following tick bites: a case report
Authors: Teulières Louis , Jia Ying , Clokie Martha , Shan Jinyu
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Diagnosing Borrelia miyamotoi disease (BMD) presents challenges due to its overlap with Lyme disease (LD) symptoms and the lack of reliable laboratory diagnostics. This case study demonstrates the successful use of phage-based PCR (phb-PCR) in identifying B. miyamotoi in a patient with multiple tick bites. A 46-year-old female presented with joint and muscle pain, chronic fatigue, and cognitive impairment after being bitten by ticks in Europe. Standard diagnostic tests, including Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunoblot for LD, and antibody tests for Bartonella, Anaplasma, and autoimmune conditions, all returned negative results. However, phb-PCR identified the presence of B. miyamotoi. The patient was treated with intravenous ceftriaxone, oral azithromycin, and intravenous vitamin and mineral therapy, resulting in significant improvement in symptoms, including reduced pain, improved cognitive function, and decreased fatigue. This case emphasises the importance of direct diagnostic methods like phb-PCR for accurately identifying BMD, especially when conventional serological tests fail. Clinicians should consider testing for B. miyamotoi in cases of complex tick-borne diseases for timely and effective management.
Beyond delinquency and drug use: Links of peer pressure to long-term adolescent psychosocial development
Authors: Allen Joseph P. , Costello Meghan A. , Stern Jessica A. , Bailey Natasha
Published: September 2024

This study examined the predictors and sequelae of exposure to peer pressure from close friends in adolescence. Adolescents (99 female; 85 male) were followed from age 13 to 24 utilizing peer, parent, and romantic partner reports and observational data. Participants who were exposed to high levels of peer pressure as teens were more likely to experience higher levels of coercive behavior from romantic partners (as reported by those partners), as well as lower levels of parent-reported functional independence. All findings held even after accounting for baseline levels of teen assertiveness. Adolescents at risk for increasing exposure to peer pressure were characterized by poor-quality parent and peer relationships, as well as baseline deficits in ability to assert autonomy. Results suggest that exposure to peer pressure, aside from its potential effects on deviant or risky behavior, may reflect a powerful threat to the autonomy development process as adolescents transition from parents to peers as primary sources of support and interaction.
Conservation and ‘the poor unfortunate foresters’: the regulation of the Ashdown Forest, Sussex 1870–1890
Authors: Short Brian
Published: September 2024

The twenty years surrounding the regulation of Ashdown Forest in 1885 reveal locally complex tensions and interactions. Designed to ensure the environmental protection of the Forest and to end internal dissent among those connected to it, regulation failed. Instead, protracted in-place conflict continued, as working families rejected new legislation which threatened their livelihoods. So the new body of conservators was faced with balancing such protection with the customary uses by commoners, with the working practices of ‘foresters’, with resurgent calls for small-scale farming, and with the ever-increasing residential numbers by the 1880s, many seeking ‘nature’ and ‘the primitive’, but also social tone. And increasingly, from beyond the locality, came the calls for environmental protection, especially from the newly formed Commons Preservation Society, urged on by newspaper articles recommending the fresh air and ‘natural’ beauty of Ashdown to townsfolk as a rural idyll or for moral improvement.
Experiences of mental health issues amongst dialectical behaviour therapists: an exploratory study
Authors: Essletzbichler Amy Gaglia , Sharp Rebecca , Swales Michaela
Published: September 2024

Little is known about dialectical behaviour therapists’ (DBT) own experiences of mental health issues or being experts by experience. Quantitative exploratory methodology surveyed DBT therapists about their own experiences of mental health issues. Questionnaires were varied and far-reaching including collection of data on demographics as well as mental health experiences and disclosures of difficulties, Adverse childhood experiences, quality of life, attitudes towards people with borderline personality disorder (BPD), and a measure of internalised stigma and stigma resistance for people who endorsed a formal mental health diagnosis. Ninety-four people responded, 92 of whom identified as a practising DBT; 80 endorsed a history of or current mental health difficulties. This exploratory research, based on responses from 94 DBT therapists, expands knowledge on the relevance of ‘wounded healer/impaired practitioner’ concepts for practitioners of DBT and raises issues related to consultation team and a duty of care towards DBT therapists. Low response rate makes it difficult to generalise these findings. Respondents were predominantly white, female, heterosexual therapists earning well above the median and mean incomes in the UK. Additionally, respondents were not asked to define the functions and modes of their DBT practice.

Key learning aims

(1)

Readers will learn about the treatment relationship within a DBT context.

(2)

Readers will learn about the concepts of wounded healer and impaired practitioner as well as the related issue of stigma.

(3)

Readers will learn about the experiences of mental health issues of 94 DBT therapists.
Human immunodeficiency virus exposed child feeding and maternal enriching factors
Authors: Desalegn Birhan , Legesse Misgan , Kebede Bizuneh Fassikaw
Published: September 2024

Globally, each year 1.3 million neonates acquire human immunodeficiency virus during pregnancy, labour, and breastfeeding time. Replacing breastfeeding with recommended safe infant feeding practices significantly reduces the risk of transmission, nearly eliminating it. This study aimed to assess Human immunodeficiency virus exposed child feeding among 314 mothers with infants under 24 months old. Participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique, and data were collected through a semi-structured questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses employed to identify determinants for safe infant feeding. During interviews, the mean age of women was 32.35 years (standard deviation±4.5), and infants were 10.8(±3.951) months. The overall safe infant feeding was 67.2% (95% CI: 61.7, 72.9), with a mean knowledge score. By the study’s end, 9 infants (2.89%) were confirmed to be infected with virus based on dried blood sample test. Maternal promoting factors for safe infant practice included infant age 25–35 years (adjusted odd ratio (aOR) =2.9) completing high school education (adjusted odd ratio = 9.2), having a good knowledge score for infant feeding (adjusted odd ratio = 8.2), and urban residency (adjusted odd ratio = 2.2). On the other hand, being married made it 83% less likely for safe infant feeding practices (adjusted odd ratio = 0.17) compared to those never in a union. Two in three mothers practiced safe infant feeding for their HIV-exposed infants, with a mean knowledge score of 70.3%. Therefore, healthcare providers give accurate information and counselling services to make informed decisions about infant safe feeding.