bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the energy return on investment of forestry biomass: Impacts of feedstock, production techniques and post‐processing
Authors: Colla Martin , de Chambost Etienne , Merceron Louis , Blondeau Julien , Jeanmart Hervé , Boissonnet Guillaume
Published: May 2024

The Energy Return On Investment (EROI) is a recognised indicator for assessing the relevance of an energy project in terms of net energy delivered to society. For woody biomass divergences remain on the right methodology to assess the EROI leading to large variations in the published estimates. This article presents an in‐depth discussion about the EROI of woody biomass in three different forms: woodchips, pellets and liquid fuels. The conceptualisation of EROI is further developed to reach a consistent definition for biomass post‐processed fuels. It considers, on top of the external energy investments, the grey energy associated with the energy used to enrich the fuel. With the proposed methodology, all woodchips have an EROI of the same order of magnitude, between 20 and 37, depending on forestry types, operations and machineries. For secondary residues, the first estimate is 170 if, as co‐products, no energy investment is allocated to the forestry operations and transport. On the basis of a mass allocation for forestry operations and transport, the EROI for secondary residues becomes of the same order of magnitude as that for wood chips. Woodchips can be further post‐processed into pellets or liquid fuels. Pellets have an EROI of 4–7 if the heat is externally supplied and 8–23 if internally supplied (self‐consumption of part of the raw material). Liquid fuels derived from primary wood and residues through gasification and Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis have an EROI between 4 and 16. Fuel enhancement with hydrogen (Power & Biomass to Liquids) impacts negatively the EROI due to the low EROI of hydrogen produced from renewable electricity. However, these fuels offer other advantages such as improved carbon efficiency. A correct estimate of EROI for forestry biomass, as proposed in this work, is a necessary dimension in assessing the suitability of a project.
30‐sit‐to‐stand power is a better tool than isometric knee extensor strength to detect motor impairment in people with haemophilic arthropathy
Authors: Cruz‐Montecinos Carlos , Moena‐León María , Durán‐Ovalle Antonio , Lizama‐Jofré Aracelli , Soto Verónica , Oyarzún Andrés , Tapia Claudio , Freitas Sandro R. , Pinto Ronei S. , Núñez‐Cortés Rodrigo , Daffunchio Carla
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Regular assessment of motor impairments is crucial in people with haemophilic arthropathy (PwHA). This study aimed to determine if there are differences in 30‐seconds sit‐to‐stand (30‐STS) power and maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) of the knee extensors between PwHA and healthy control group (CG). The secondary aims were to investigate the correlation between 30‐STS power and MVIC of knee extensors with clinical characteristics and to assess their effectiveness in identifying motor impairment in PwHA.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted by collecting data from PwHA (n = 17) and a sedentary CG (n = 15). MVIC (torque) and 30‐STS power were normalised to body mass. Correlation analysis and simple linear regression adjusted for age were used to assess the association between tests and clinical variables. Using z‐scores derived from the mean and standard deviation of the CG, we compared the MVIC and the 30‐STS power in PwHA.

Results

PwHA showed lower MVIC and 30‐STS power compared to CG (p < .001; large effect size d > .8). Lower 30‐STS power was associated with greater joint impairment and greater fear of movement, whereas MVIC showed no association with clinical variables. 30‐STS power showed a lower z‐score compared to MVIC (p < .001). In addition, 30‐STS power detected 47% of PwHA with motor impairment compared to 0% for MVIC (p = .002).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that 30‐STS power may be more effective than knee extensors MVIC in detecting motor impairment in PwHA. Consequently, lower limb skeletal muscle power, rather than maximum knee extensor strength, appears to be more affected in PwHA.
De‐simplifying antiretroviral therapy from a single‐tablet to a two‐tablet regimen: Acceptance, patient‐reported outcomes, and cost savings in a multicentre study
Authors: Oosterhof P. , de Zoete B. G. J. A. , Vanhommerig J. W. , Langebeek N. , Gisolf E. H. , van Hulzen A. G. W. , Lammers A. J. J. , Weijsenfeld A. M. , van der Valk M. , Grintjes K. , van Crevel R. , van Luin M. , Brinkman K. , Burger D. M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART), which is increasingly used by people with HIV, accounts for significant care costs, particularly because of single‐tablet regimens (STRs). This study explored de‐simplification to a two‐tablet regimen (TTR) for cost reduction. The objectives of this study were: (1) acceptance of de‐simplification, (2) patient‐reported outcomes, and (3) cost savings.

Methods

All individuals on Triumeq®, Atripla® or Eviplera® in five HIV clinics in the Netherlands were eligible. Healthcare providers informed individuals of this study. After inclusion, individuals were free to de‐simplify. An electronic questionnaire was sent to assess study acceptance, adherence, quality of life (SF12) and treatment satisfaction (HIVTSQ). After 3 and 12 months, questionnaires were repeated. Cost savings were calculated using Dutch drug prices.

Results

In total, 283 individuals were included, of whom 55.5% agreed to de‐simplify their ART, with a large variability between treatment centres: 41.1–74.2%. Individuals who were willing to de‐simplify tended to be older, had a longer history of HIV diagnosis, and used more co‐medication than those who preferred to remain on an STR regimen. Patient‐reported outcomes, including quality of life and treatment satisfaction, showed no significant difference between people with HIV who switched to a TTR and those who remained on an STR regimen. Furthermore, we observed a 17.8% reduction in drug costs in our cohort of people with HIV who were initially on an STR.

Conclusions

De‐simplification from an STR to a TTR within the Dutch healthcare setting has been demonstrated as feasible, leads to significant cost reductions and should be discussed with every eligible person with HIV in the Netherlands.
Integration of single‐cell RNA sequencing of endothelial cells and proteomics to unravel the role of ICAM1–PTGS2 communication in apical periodontitis: A laboratory investigation
Authors: Lv Xiaomin , Luo Cuiting , Wu Jie , Huang Yihua , Quan Jingjing , Gong Qimei , Tong Zhongchun
Published: May 2024

Aim

Endothelial cells (EDs) play a key role in angiogenesis and are associated with granulomatous lesions in patients with chronic apical periodontitis (CAP). This study aimed to investigate the diversity of EDs using single‐cell ribonucleic acid sequencing (scRNA‐seq) and to evaluate the regulation of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) on the ferroptosis‐related protein, prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), in CAP.

Methodology

EDs from the uploaded scRNA‐seq data of five CAP samples (GSE181688 and GSE197680) were categorized using distinct marker genes. The interactions between vein EDs (veinEndo) and other cell types were analysed using CellPhoneDB. Differentially expressed proteins in the proteomics of human umbilical vein EDs (HUVECs) and THP‐1‐derived macrophages infected with Porphyromonas gingivalis were compared with the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of VeinEndo in scRNA‐seq of CAP versus healthy control periodontal tissues. The protein–protein interaction of ICAM1–PTGS2 in macrophages and HUVECs was validated by adding recombinant ICAM1, ICAM1 inhibitor and PTGS2 inhibitor using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

EDs in patients with CAP were divided into eight subclusters: five vein ED, capillaries, arterials and EC (PLA). There were 29 mutually upregulated DEGs and two mutually downregulated DEGs in vein cells in the scRNA‐seq data, as well as differentially expressed proteins in the proteomics of HUVECs. Real‐time PCR and immunofluorescence staining showed that ICAM1 and PTGS2 were highly expressed in CAP, infected HUVECs, and macrophages. Recombinant protein ICAM1 may improve PTGS2 expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and Fe2+ levels and decrease glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and SLC7A11 protein levels. ICAM1 inhibitor may inverse the above changes.

Conclusions

scRNA‐seq revealed the diversity of EDs in CAP and identified the possible regulation of ICAM1 by the ferroptosis‐related protein, PTGS2, in infected HUVECs and macrophages, thus providing a basis for therapeutic approaches that target the inflammatory microenvironment of CAP.
Recalcitrant dermatophyte infections: identification and risk factors
Authors: Tamimi Pegah , Fattahi Mahsa , Firooz Alireza , Ghaderi Aliasghar , Ayatollahi Azin , Nasiri Kashani Mansour , Alkhen Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Recalcitrant dermatophytosis is an emerging phenomenon that occurs worldwide, and Trichophyton indotineae is currently the prominent cause.

Materials and methods

Skin specimens from patients with tinea infection were obtained by scrubbing and then sectioned into three fragments. Two fragments were subjected to direct microscopic examination and culture, while the third portion was utilized in the PCR method.

Results

Isolates were morphologically identified as Trichophyton mentagrophytes/interdigitale complex (n = 60 [83.33%]), Microsporum canis (n = 8 [11.11%]), Trichophyton rubrum (n = 3 [4.16%]), and Epidermophyton floccosum (n = 1 [1.38%]). Among 60 T. mentagrophytes complex isolates, 53 (88.33%) were classified as T. indotineae and seven as T. interdigitale genotype II. The disease duration was longer in the T. indotineae group (P = 0.035). Both Gradient PCR and skin‐sampling methods yield similar results in terms of positive and negative cases (P = 1.0000). The time patients stopped their medication did not impact the positive case numbers (P = 0.803). Gender had no effects on the frequency (P = 0.699). Familial contamination, dermatologic disorder, and other underlying conditions did not differ in the two group infections (P > 0.05). Steroid usage is strongly associated with the emergence of tinea infection (P < 0.04). The duration of antifungal administration had a substantial effect on the emergence of resistant organisms (P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Steroid usage, T. indotineae involvement, and prolonged exposure to antifungals were the solid and influential factors in recalcitrant involvement. Regarding quick and suitable diagnosis and treatment, which is essential in preventing recalcitrant cases, we suggest that direct skin sample PCR can meet the demands.
The Janus model of money demand
Authors: Faria João Ricardo , McAdam Peter
Published: May 2024

We derive a new theoretical model of money demand, which reflects backward‐ and forward‐looking preferences in consumption and utility. The former aspect is captured by standard habit formation, and the latter by anticipation of future consumption preferences. By introducing both of these into the Ramsey–Sidrauski framework, we unveil a new highly general model of money demand. We discuss the model in light of the apparent breakdown of money‐demand functions and diminished policy relevance of monetary aggregates.
Fermented or not fermented: a comparative study of the biological activities and microbiomes of a non‐fermented green tea and a five‐year‐old fermented tea prepared from young leaves of Shan tea
Authors: Tran Phuc N. H. , Nguyen Yen T. M. , Nguyen Minh Q. , Nguyen Trung‐Dũng , Tran Hanh T. M.
Published: May 2024

Camellia sinensis var. shan is a special tea variety in Vietnam that is in high demand, especially its fermented products. This study compared the total polyphenol content (TPC), antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, and microbiome of a green Shan tea and a five‐year‐old fermented Shan tea. Folin–Ciocalteu, DPPH and SRB assays were used for TPC, antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity evaluation. The isolated microbes were morphologically and molecularly identified. The TPC (126.59 mg g−1) and antioxidant activity (IC50 of 284.82 μg mL−1) of the green tea were significantly higher than those of the fermented tea. However, the latter showed a significantly higher cytotoxicity against liver cancer cells (inhibiting 73.84% cells at 1 mg mL−1). Notably, the green tea had a negligible number of microbes, but the fermented tea had a much richer microbiome with Aspergillus restrictus (4.7 × 104 CFU g−1), A. ruber (1.76 × 103 CFU g−1), A. pseudoglaucus (1.32 × 103 CFU g−1), A. cibarius (8.8 × 102 CFU g−1), Bacillus cereus (1.13 × 104 CFU g−1), Peribacillus frigoritolerans (4.0 × 102 CFU g−1) and B. amyloliquefaciens (2.0 × 102 CFU g−1) present. These microbes are either harmless or beneficial, except for B. cereus (can cause food poisoning at >106 CFU g−1). The fermented tea would appear to have some advantages over the green tea. However, the presence and density of B. cereus should be monitored.
Bone age and dental late effects in childhood cancer survivors: Radiographic findings in a Brazilian sample
Authors: De Almeida Híttalo Carlos Rodrigues , Rodrigues Cleomar Donizeth , De Azevedo Luiz Pedro Mendes , Rosenblatt Aronita , Da Silveira Márcia Maria Fonseca , Sobral Ana Paula Veras
Published: May 2024

Background

Changes in bone age and tooth development are late side effects of cancer therapy and can be identified by imaging examination.

Aim

To evaluate the late effects of antineoplastic treatment on bone age and dental development in childhood cancer survivors.

Design

This is a retrospective case–control study on paediatric cancer survivors of both sexes who underwent antineoplastic treatment with 5–15 years of survival. Carpal radiographs were assessed for bone age and growth curve, and panoramic radiographs were used to evaluate dental development and alterations. Carpal radiographs were analyzed using the Greulich and Pyle inspection method, and the Martins and Sakima method was used to analyze the growth curve. All tests were applied with a confidence level of 95%.

Results

The study and control groups comprised 28 and 56 patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in bone age and growth curve between the study and control groups. Nonetheless, when sex was compared to chronological and bone ages, there was a significant difference in bone age (p = 0.019) and an underestimation in both groups and sexes in the Greulich and Pyle method. As to late dental effects, dental agenesia, microdontia, gyroversion, and unerupted teeth were found. Dental shape alterations mainly involve the root region.

Conclusion

Close multidisciplinary collaboration is necessary during the follow‐up period of young patients who have survived cancer.
Achieving excellent mechanical and electrical properties in transition metal oxides and rare earth oxide‐doped KNN‐based piezoceramics
Authors: Zhang Zhidong , Shang Xunzhong , Liu Xiong , He Yunbin , Zhang Zaoli , Guo Jinming
Published: May 2024

Potassium sodium niobate (KNN)‐based piezoelectric ceramics have emerged as a promising alternative to lead‐based systems due to their exceptional properties. While extensive research has focused on improving the electrical properties of KNN‐based ceramics through doping and processing optimization, the concurrent investigation of their mechanical properties has been lacking. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the mechanical and electrical properties of KNN‐based lead‐free piezoceramics doped with various transition metal oxides and rare earth oxides, based on substantial experimental data. Our findings reveal that the as‐sintered KNN‐based ceramics exhibit not only outstanding electrical properties but also remarkable mechanical robustness compared to conventional toughened lead zirconate titanate (PZT)‐based ceramics. These exceptional electrical and mechanical properties are attributed to the micro‐scale and atomic‐scale structure of the modified KNN‐based ceramics, characterized by a highly condensed structure, an inhomogeneous distribution of nano‐domain structure, and the presence of amorphous intergranular films at grain boundaries.
Thermal decomposition of oxygen‐containing Ta3N5${\rm {Ta}}_3{\rm {N}}_5$
Authors: Moharana Niraja , Ghosh Chanchal , Dasgupta Arup , Maezono Ryo , Kumar Ravi , Kumar K. C. Hari
Published: May 2024

Transition metal nitrides, especially tantalum nitrides, are pivotal for applications in extreme environments demanding excellent mechanical properties and thermodynamic stability. Among them, ‐TaN, a high‐pressure polymorph of tantalum nitride with its exceptional bulk modulus (362 GPa) and hardness (31.7 GPa) promises to have many technological uses. Another nitride, , has gained importance as a photocatalyst for water splitting using visible light. The Ta–N phase diagram indicates that the thermal decomposition of pure leads to the formation of ‐TaN. However, usually has some amount of oxygen as an impurity mainly due to its synthesis route. We found that the ‐TaN phase, which is usually observed at high pressures, is formed during the thermal decomposition of oxygen containing . The presence of ‐TaN is verified using several experimental techniques such as X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectra, high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM‐HAADF), and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Elemental distribution analyzed through energy dispersion X‐ray spectroscopy (XEDS) in STEM reveals about 7 at.% of oxygen in ‐TaN. First‐principle calculations are performed to examine the thermodynamic stability of oxygen substituted ‐TaN and pure ‐TaN via formation enthalpies, elastic constants, and phonon dispersion calculations. The computational studies confirm that oxygen in ‐TaN enhances its thermodynamic stability. The calculated electron localization functions establish the bonding characteristics between Ta, N, and O, confirming the same.
Minimally invasive non‐surgical periodontal therapy of intrabony defects: A prospective multi‐centre cohort study
Authors: Mehta Jaimini , Montevecchi Marco , Garcia‐Sanchez Ruben , Onabolu Olanrewaju , Liñares Antonio , Eriksson Fernando , Ghezzi Carlo , Donghi Camilla , Lu Emily Ming‐Chieh , Nibali Luigi
Published: May 2024

Aim

To assess the potential benefits of minimally invasive non‐surgical therapy (MINST) in teeth with intrabony defects and to explore factors associated with the outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A multi‐centre trial was conducted in 100 intrabony defects in periodontitis patients in private practice. Steps 1 and 2 periodontal therapy including MINST were provided. Clinical and radiographic data were analysed at baseline and 12 months after treatment, with the primary aim being change in radiographic defect depth at 12 months.

Results

Eighty‐four patients completed the 12‐month follow up. The mean total radiographic defect depth reduced by 1.42 mm and the defect angle increased by 3° (both p < .05). Statistically significant improvements in probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were seen at 12 months compared to baseline (p < .001). Fifty‐six defects (66.7%) achieved pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm) and 49 defects (58.3%) achieved the composite outcome (PPD ≤ 4 mm and CAL gain ≥3 mm). Deeper and narrower angled defects were positively correlated with radiographic and clinical improvements, respectively.

Conclusions

Improvements in clinical and radiographic outcomes were seen after MINST. This study highlights the generalizability and wide applicability of this approach, further supporting its effectiveness in the treatment of intrabony defects. Clinical trial registration: NCT03741374. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03741374?cond=minimally%20invasive%20non%20surgical%20therapy&locStr=UK&country=United%20Kingdom&distance=50&rank=2.
Mitochondrial ALDH2 improves ß‐cell survival and function against doxorubicin‐induced apoptosis by targeting CK2 signaling
Authors: Karunakaran Udayakumar , Ha Eun Yeong , Elumalai Suma , Won Kyu Chang , Moon Jun Sung
Published: May 2024

Aims

The aim of this study was to better understand how the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin contributes to the development of β‐cell dysfunction and to explore its relationship with mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase‐2 (ALDH2).

Materials and Methods

In order to investigate this hypothesis, doxorubicin was administered to INS‐1 cells, a rat insulinoma cell line, either with or without several target protein activators and inhibitors. ALDH2 activity was detected with a commercial kit and protein levels were determined with western blot. Mitochondrial ROS, membrane potential, and lipid ROS were determined by commercial fluorescent probes. The cell viability was measured by CCK‐assay.

Results

Exposure of INS‐1 cells to doxorubicin decreased active insulin signaling resulting in elevated ALDH2 degradation, compared with control cells by the induction of acid sphingomyelinase mediated ceramide induction. Further, ceramide induction potentiated doxorubicin induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Treatment with the ALDH2 agonist, ALDA1, blocked doxorubicin‐induced acid sphingomyelinase activation which significantly blocked ceramide induction and mitochondrial dysfunction mediated cell death. Treatment with the ALDH2 agonist, ALDA1, stimulated casein kinase‐2 (CK2) mediated insulin signaling activation. CK2 silencing neutralized the function of ALDH2 in the doxorubicin treated INS‐1 cells.

Conclusions

Mitochondrial ALDH2 activation could inhibit the progression of doxorubicin induced pancreatic β‐cell dysfunction by inhibiting the acid sphingomyelinase induction of ceramide, by regulating the activation of CK2 signaling. Our research lays the foundation of ALDH2 activation as a therapeutic target for the precise treatment of chemotherapy drug induced β‐cell dysfunction.
The Provision of Psychosocial Support to Students in Jordan: Teachers' Knowledge, Attitudes, Skills, Practices, and Perceived Barriers
Authors: Abu Khudair Sara , Khader Yousef , Al Nsour Mohannad , Tanaka Eizaburo
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Psychosocial support provision in schools is a promising strategy for overcoming barriers to accessing mental health care. This study aimed to assess teachers' knowledge, attitudes, practices, skills, and perceived barriers in providing psychosocial support to students in Jordan.

METHODS

The sample included teachers working in public schools, private schools, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) schools, and Zaatari camp schools, as well as non‐formal education centers. The study utilized a multi‐stage stratified cluster sampling technique to select a nationally representative sample.

RESULTS

A total of 549 teachers were included, and only 25.2% have ever received mental health training. Most teachers reported a high level of good and acceptable knowledge of psychosocial support and had a positive attitude toward the provision of psychosocial support, however, about a quarter (25.5%) agreed on feeling nervous in discussing students' psychosocial problems with their parents or school administrators. The least enacted practice was the systematic engagement with parents, school administration, and other community resources in students' well‐being (sometimes, 31.6%; rarely, 20.4%). Gaps in skills were mainly in communicating with external resources and parents. The main barriers included parents' misunderstanding of teachers' role in providing psychosocial support to students (56.8%), lack of integration of psychosocial support in the curriculum (55.6%), and challenges in identifying students with psychosocial problems due to large class sizes (54.3%).

CONCLUSION

The results show that gaps extend beyond the individual level of teachers to the community level. School‐based psychosocial support interventions must consider the multiple factors that influence their implementation at multiple levels, including the individual, relational, community, and societal levels.
Nationalism and environmentalism from the global perspective: A comparative survey analysis of eco‐nationalism
Authors: Nakai Ryo
Published: May 2024

This study examines the relationship between environmentalism and nationalism, including eco‐nationalism, from comparative empirical survey studies. This study uses the Integrated Value Survey dataset, comprising approximately 240,000 respondents from 100 countries since 2010, to explore nationalism and pro‐environmental attitudes among public opinion across various countries. From a global perspective, a positive correlation between national pride or national identity and environmentalism is observed among many countries, whereas in a few regions, namely, certain parts of Western Europe and North America, both sentiments exhibit a negative correlation. Further regression analysis indicates that eco‐nationalism and green nationalism tend to emerge in less economically developed countries but are not affected by the degree of democracy, resource rent and level of globalisation. This study demonstrates that the link between environmentalism and nationalism is not definitive but contextual, and it clarifies the context that defines it through empirical international comparisons.
Legislative review and recommendations for improving sun protection in schools
Authors: Freeman Timothy , Morris Lisa M. , Michalski Basia M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Sun exposure in schools can account for a large portion of childhood sun exposure before the age of 20 years, yet legislation in the United States is lacking to properly protect children. Schools serve as a foundational resource to introduce and implement sun‐safe practices in the youth population.

Methods

Federal and state legislation relating to the access of sunscreen, sun‐protective apparel, and shade was reviewed via the website LegiScan.com.

Results

At the time of publication, only 25 states have legislation in place that addresses and allows sunscreen to be used in school, given its classification as an over‐the‐counter medication. No state has implemented legislation allowing sunglasses to be worn in school, and only two states have laws explicitly allowing hats and other sun‐protective apparel at schools. In addition, the provision of shade is addressed in four states.

Conclusions

With a significant portion of sun exposure occurring at schools, state and federal legislation must address sun protection for students, opening the door for expanded access and additional research related to skin cancer prevention.
A modifiable valve‐sparing pediatric cardiac dissection technique promotes specimen longevity and optimizes advanced image analysis postpathological examination
Authors: Yamasaki Takato , Toba Shuhei , Sanders Stephen P. , Carreon Chrystalle Katte
Published: May 2024

This paper illustrates a valve‐sparing cardiac dissection technique that keeps the atrioventricular and semilunar valves and other important cardiac structures intact. The technique minimizes disruption in heart specimens, so they remain suitable for teaching, demonstration, and further research. When performed following the perfusion‐distension method of fixation, as our group previously described, this technique could optimize the preservation of heart specimens for teaching and digital archiving postdissection.
Was Hart an Inclusive Positivist?
Authors: Costa‐Neto João , de Castro Henrique Porto
Published: May 2024

After the publication of Hart's Concept of Law, Dworkin published his article “The Model of Rules,” dividing positivism into two varieties: inclusive and exclusive. Many theorists involved in this debate have characterized Hart's position as inclusivist, which we reject in this article. We argue that Hart, in the postscript to The Concept of Law, conceded a point to Dworkin in accepting that inclusive positivism would imply the existence of objective moral standing, adopting a more “neutral” position—compatible with inclusive and exclusive positivism—and consequently distancing himself from the incorporation thesis, which is paramount to inclusive positivism.
Lay of the (wet)land: manager practices and challenges in wetland revegetation
Authors: Henry Annie L. , Robinson Rae , Sinnott Kate , Tarsa Emily , Brunson Mark W. , Kettenring Karin M.
Published: May 2024

Despite providing essential ecosystem services, wetlands are one of the most threatened ecosystems worldwide. Revegetation of wetlands is a critical aspect of restoring ecosystem services, yet little is known about common practices, the challenges managers face, or what resources they require to improve revegetation outcomes. We assessed current revegetation practices, obstacles, and potential solutions by surveying wetland managers in the Intermountain West of the United States, a vast, ecologically diverse region containing hundreds of millions of hectares of public lands. Survey results indicate that managers revegetate wetlands for erosion control, invasion resistance, enhanced wildlife habitat, and improved water quality despite small budgets and limited personnel. Drought, invasive species, and the timing and availability of water are the biggest ecological challenges that managers face and point to the need to prioritize wetland revegetation research to improve revegetation practices in a changing climate with dwindling water resources. Additionally, access to genetically‐ and species‐diverse native plant materials is a concern for many managers. To address these challenges, managers need additional financial and human resources, accessible information relating to revegetation methods, and greater collaboration with research institutions and native plant vendors. Our findings underscore the need for funding entities to prioritize money for wetland revegetation efforts, a natural resource management area that has been neglected relative to many other ecosystems. The results of this study provide insight into challenges and potential solutions for wetland revegetation in regions of the world, such as the western United States, where increasing water scarcity threatens wetlands and their restoration.
On maximizing the likelihood function of general geostatistical models
Authors: Chu Tingjin
Published: May 2024

General geostatistical models are powerful tools for analyzing spatial datasets. A two‐step estimation based on the likelihood function is widely used by researchers, but several theoretical and computational challenges remain to be addressed. First, it is unclear whether there is a unique global maximizer of the log‐likelihood function, a seemingly simple but theoretically challenging question. The second challenge is the convexity of the log‐likelihood function. Besides these two challenges in maximizing the likelihood function, we also study the theoretical property of the two‐step estimation. Unlike many previous works, our results can apply to the non‐twice differentiable covariance functions. In the simulation studies, three optimization algorithms are evaluated in terms of maximizing the log‐likelihood functions.
Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) seeds accelerates wound healing in rats: Possible molecular mechanisms
Authors: Ahmed Khaled Abdul‐Aziz , Jabbar Ahmed A. J. , Galali Yaseen , M. Al‐Qaaneh Ayman , Akçakavak Gökhan , Salehen Nur Ain , Hassan Rawaz Rizgar , Mothana Ramzi A. , Abdulla Mahmood Ameen , Fantoukh Omer I. , Hasson Sidig , Hawwal Mohammed F.
Published: May 2024

Wound healing is a complex, intricate, and dynamic process that requires effective therapeutic management. The current study evaluates the wound healing potentials of methanolic extract of Cuminum cyminum L. seeds (CCS) in rats. Sprague Dawley (24) rats were distributed into four cages, wounds produced on the back of the neck, and received two daily topical treatments for 14 days: A, rats received normal saline; B, wounded rats treated with intrasite gel; C and D, rats received 0.2 mL of 250 and 500 mg/kg of CCS, respectively. After that, wound area and closure percentage were evaluated, and wound tissues were dissected for histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical examinations. Acute toxicity trials of methanolic extract of CCS showed the absence of any physiological changes or mortality in rats. CCS application caused a significant reduction in wound size and a statistically elevated percentage of wound contraction than those of vehicle rats. CCS treatment caused significant up‐regulation of collagen fiber, fibroblasts, and fewer inflammatory cells (inflammation) in granulation tissues. TGF‐β1 (angiogenetic factor) was significantly more expressed in CCS‐treated rats in comparison to normal saline‐treated rats; therefore, more fibroblasts transformed into myofibroblasts (angiogenesis). CCS‐treated rats showed remarkable antioxidant potentials (higher SOD and CAT enzymes) and decreased MDA (lipid peroxidation) levels in their wound tissue homogenates. Hydroxyproline amino acid (collagen) was significantly up‐regulated by CCS treatment, which is commonly related to faster wound closure area. The outcomes suggest CCS as a viable new source of pharmaceuticals for wound treatment.
Sustainable quality improvement: An essential ingredient for sustainability in modern medical curricula?
Authors: Chambers Jenna , Alberti Hugh , Harrison Michael , Mulgrew Nicola
Published: May 2024

Background

Health care delivery contributes a significant carbon footprint in the United Kingdom, and paradoxically climate change is linked to poorer human health outcomes. New General Medical Council (GMC) requirements mandate medical graduates must be able to apply sustainable care to their practice. Implementation of sustainable health care (SHC) teaching is a new challenge for medical schools, and there are several identified barriers including an overcrowded curriculum, lack of expertise within faculties, lack of institutional support and inadequate assessment techniques.

Approach

We established a new SHC curriculum spiralling throughout the overall medical curriculum, and as part of this introduced a sustainable quality improvement (susQI) project to our final year cohort. SusQI considers the environmental, social and financial impacts as well as patient and population outcomes. Our students undertook this in their final year GP assistantships.

Evaluation

We sought multi‐sourced data through focus groups, formal end of placement feedback, informal feedback and external feedback. We applied thematic analysis to focus group transcriptions and triangulated with the other data sources. We identified some common themes: First, susQI was enjoyed and valuable; second, it allowed meaningful participation; third, it created a co‐learning environment; and fourth, timing and curriculum placement are important when integrating susQI.

Implications

SusQI can implement SHC into the overcrowded medical curriculum in a low cost, low resource manner without the need for experienced faculty. SusQI is empowering for students and grants them an active team role. Expansion into secondary and tertiary care is feasible, and we contend that susQI can be placed in other health care curricula.
The geoeconomics of protecting profits from migrants in maritime distress
Authors: Rudolph Terence Adam
Published: May 2024

Commercial vessels play a significant role in rescuing migrants on the Mediterranean. There are physical and financial risks to performing these commercial rescues that are poorly understood and often ignored. For ship captains, migrants in maritime distress embody the close linkages between geoeconomic and geopolitical risk. I argue that the negotiation of migrant rescues by commercial shipping captains captures the ways in which geoeconomic and geopolitical security‐seeking discourses become entangled and contradictorily embodied in everyday life and suffering. The rationale and logic that underwrite the securitisation of the supply chain is the discursive site where geopolitical and geoeconomic strategy define the risks in maritime rescue space. This study extends from a conceptual framework that identifies the spatial structuring of an ongoing dialectic between geopolitical and geoeconomic strategy as a defining feature of geoeconomic analyses. The research is based on interviews with 24 maritime professionals and a series of freedom of information requests to the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) for information about rescues involving commercial ships. This paper contributes new information on the human geography of maritime rescues that involve commercial ships and migrants in the Central Mediterranean.
Identification of hypoxia‐induced metabolism‐associated genes in canine tumours
Authors: Kato Taiki , Sakurai Masashi , Watanabe Kenji , Mizukami Yoichi , Nakagawa Takayuki , Baba Kenji , Mizuno Takuya , Igase Masaya
Published: May 2024

Canine tumours including urothelial carcinoma, lung adenocarcinoma, mammary gland tumour, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma have been identified as causes of death, but effective therapies are limited due to insufficient knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved. Within the tumour microenvironment, hypoxia activates hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) in tumour cells. High HIF1α expression correlates with enhanced glycolysis and poorer outcomes in human cancers. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying hypoxic tumour cells remain elusive in dogs. In our study, we investigated upregulated genes in a canine malignant melanoma cell line during hypoxia using RNA‐sequencing analysis. Glycolysis and HIF1 signalling pathways were upregulated in hypoxic melanoma cells. HIF1α knockout melanoma cells revealed that the glycolysis marker MCT4 is regulated by HIF1α activation. Hypoxia induces high lactate secretion due to enhanced glycolysis in canine melanoma cells. Furthermore, we examined monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4) expression in malignant melanoma and eight other types of canine tumour tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Membrane‐localized MCT4 protein was mostly detected in urothelial carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma rather than malignant melanoma. We conclude that canine MCT4 protein plays a role in lactic acid efflux from glycolytic cells and may serve as a marker for hypoxia and glycolysis in canine tumours. These findings could inform future therapeutic strategies targeting MCT4.
Introduction: World Englishes and Cultural Linguistics special issue
Authors: Latić Denisa , Peters Arne , Wolf Hans‐Georg , Polzenhagen Frank
Published: May 2024

This special issue brings together contributions from leading researchers from Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia active in the field of Cultural Linguistics, with particular reference to English worldwide. The special issue comprises nine substantive research articles together with a comprehensive bibliography dealing with Cultural Linguistics and world Englishes. It is anticipated that the special issue will provide a very useful reference and starting point for future research in this area.
O Papel dos Movimentos Sociais na Concretização Dos Direitos Dos Refugiados: Análise Do Caso Venezuelano a Partir Da Decisão do STF na ACO 3121/Rr
Authors: Vinícius Zimmermann  Fontes Artur , Neves Linhares Felipe
Published: May 2024

O presente artigo aborda o papel dos movimentos sociais em relação a questões de direitos humanos, diante da intensificação do fluxo de migrantes venezuelanos para o Brasil no Estado de Roraima, a partir da decisão prolatada pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal na Ação Civil Ordinária 3121. O método de abordagem é o dedutivo e o método de procedimento é a pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. A primeira seção traz questões sociológicas a respeito do fenômeno da migração e a evolução do conceito de refugiado no direito internacional, incluindo sua adaptação a diversas situações de crise e enfatizando a importância da acolhida humanitária. A segunda seção traz especificamente a ACO 3121, em que o Estado de Roraima postulou pelo fechamento temporário de sua fronteira. A decisão prolatada pelo STF é analisada em aspectos sobre relevância dos direitos humanos, dignidade da pessoa humana e obrigação de acolhimento humanitário. Na terceira seção, enfatiza-se a necessidade de se efetivarem os direitos dos refugiados, para além do mero reconhecimento legal, mesmo para estrangeiros em situação irregular. No caso dos refugiados venezuelanos, a concentração em Roraima gerou desafios, incluindo saúde, assistência social e integração no mercado de trabalho. Apesar da ineficácia dos direitos fundamentais ser cada vez mais complexa de diagnosticar, movimentos sociais desempenharam um papel crucial não só na acolhida humanitária a esses refugiados, mas na interiorização deles para todas as regiões do Brasil, permitindo uma melhor integração dos venezuelanos na sociedade brasileira como um todo, garantindo-lhes saúde, assistência social e emprego.
Shift invariant subspaces in growth spaces and sets of finite entropy
Authors: Limani Adem
Published: May 2024

We investigate shift invariant subspaces within the realm of analytic functions in the unit disc, whose radial growth is determined by a majorant . Our main result offers a complete characterization of the shift invariant subspaces generated by Nevanlinna class functions within the aforementioned class of growth spaces. Our description is expressed in terms of a certain ‐entropy condition, which naturally arises in connection with boundary zero sets for analytic functions in the unit disc, having modulus of continuity not exceeding on the unit circle. Furthermore, we utilize our findings to establish a structural theorem on approximation in model spaces.
Lower vascular conductance responses to handgrip exercise are improved following acute antioxidant supplementation in young individuals with post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Weggen Jennifer B. , Darling Ashley M. , Autler Aaron S. , Hogwood Austin C. , Decker Kevin P. , Richardson Jacob , Tuzzolo Gina , Garten Ryan S.
Published: May 2024

Young individuals with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) display peripheral vascular and autonomic nervous system dysfunction, two factors potentially stemming from a redox imbalance. It is currently unclear if these aforementioned factors, observed at rest, alter peripheral haemodynamic responses to exercise in this population. This study examined haemodynamic responses to handgrip exercise in young individuals with PTSD following acute antioxidant (AO) supplementation. Thirteen young individuals with PTSD (age 23 ± 3 years), and 13 age‐ and sex‐matched controls (CTRL) participated in the study. Exercise‐induced changes to arm blood flow (BF), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and vascular conductance (VC) were evaluated across two workloads of rhythmic handgrip exercise (3 and 6 kg). The PTSD group participated in two visits, consuming either a placebo (PL) or AO prior to their visits. The PTSD group demonstrated significantly lower VC (P = 0.04) across all exercise workloads (vs. CTRL), which was significantly improved following AO supplementation. In the PTSD group, AO supplementation improved VC in participants possessing the lowest VC responses to handgrip exercise, with AO supplementation significantly improving VC responses (3 and 6 kg: P < 0.01) by blunting elevated exercise‐induced MAP responses (3 kg: P = 0.01; 6 kg: P < 0.01). Lower VC responses during handgrip exercise were improved following AO supplementation in young individuals with PTSD. AO supplementation was associated with a blunting of exercise‐induced MAP responses in individuals with PTSD displaying elevated MAP responses. This study revealed that young individuals with PTSD exhibit abnormal, peripherally mediated exercise responses that may be linked to a redox imbalance.
Implications of Context Effects in Consumer Utility Models for Optimal Product Design and Differentiation
Authors: Gowharji Waleed F. , Michalek Jeremy J. , Whitefoot Kate S.
Published: May 2024

Consumer choice models used in optimal product design typically ignore potential context effects by assuming the utility of each product is independent of the attributes of other products in the choice set. We characterize implications of context effects for profit-maximizing designs by deriving the first-order conditions of the design problem under alternative utility formulations, and we propose a utility function that incorporates context effects and has well-defined optimal design solutions for all products in the choice set. We then conduct a discrete choice survey experiment of automobile options and find statistically significant context-effect parameters and superior out-of-sample prediction when context-effect parameters are used in both logit and mixed logit models. These results suggest that context effects can be important in engineering design contexts and have the potential to affect optimal design differentiation.
Usability and Performance Comparison of Active Shape Memory and Passive Stockings for Medical Compression
Authors: Pettys-Baker Robert , Subash Niharikha , Abel Julianna , Shah Surbhi , Holschuh Brad
Published: May 2024

On-body compressive therapy is an essential treatment for a variety of health conditions. Traditional compression methods like pneumatics and knit stockings offer quality compression, but present issues with user experience (donning/doffing challenges or bulk/mass issues). This paper covers two studies related to active compression stockings, which utilize knitted shape memory alloy (SMA) wire to produce dynamic compression forces on the body. When these SMA knit panels are heated with an at-home heating pad, the knit contracts and creates dynamic compression. The first study characterizes the forces produced on the body by a new iteration of an SMA knit stocking. The second study compares two versions of the SMA knit garment with a commercially available knit compression garment. The results show that SMA knit compression garments are able to produce medical grade compression on the body, but that sizing and material properties can greatly impact the forces produced. In a comparison of different compression stockings, the user experience of the SMA compression garment was preferred over the alternative garments. Overall, the potential of SMA knit compression is further highlighted, with a clear need for further development to ensure consistent medical grade compression.
Complete genome sequence of two chromosomes of
Vibrio metoecus
strain ZF102 isolated from the abdominal cavity of moribund laboratory zebrafish (
Danio rerio
)
Authors: Kim Sung Guk , Wang Sharon X. , Foley Steven L.
Published: May 2024

Vibrio metoecus
was isolated from the abdominal cavity of moribund laboratory zebrafish. We report complete genomic sequences of
V. metoecus
strain ZF102 that has two circular chromosomes of 2,872,299 and 1,170,691 bp and two plasmids of 5,265 and 2,361 bp.