bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review on the effect of soy bioactive components on growth and health outcomes in pigs and broiler chickens
Authors: White Cameron S , Froebel Laney E , Dilger Ryan N
Published: September 2024

While soy products have long been included in animal diets for their macronutrient fractions, more recent work has focused on the immunomodulatory potential of bioactive components of this feedstuff. This comprehensive review aims to identify the current state of knowledge on minor soy fractions and their impact on the health and growth of pigs and broiler chickens to better direct future research. A total of 7,683 publications were screened, yet only 151 were included in the review after exclusion criteria were applied, with the majority (n = 87) of these studies conducted in pigs. In both species, antinutritional factors and carbohydrates, like stachyose and raffinose, were the most frequently studied categories of bioactive components. For both categories, most publications were evaluating ways to decrease the prevalence of the examined components in soy products, especially when fed at earlier ages. Overall, most studies evaluated the effect of the bioactive component on performance-related outcomes (n = 137), followed by microbial analysis (n = 38) and intestinal structure and integrity measures (n = 37). As they were analyzed in the majority of publications, antinutritional factors were also the most frequently investigated category in relation to each specific outcome. This trend did not hold true for microbiota- or antioxidant-associated outcomes, which were most often studied with carbohydrates or polyphenols, respectively. Changes to the host microbiota have the potential to modulate the immune system, feed intake, and social behaviors through the microbiota–gut–brain axis, though few publications measured behavior and brain characteristics as an outcome. Other identified gaps in research included the study of soy saponins, as most research focused on saponins derived from other plants, the study of phytosterols outside of their role in cardiovascular or reproductive outcomes, and the general examination of bioactive peptides. Overall, given soy’s popularity as a current constituent of animal feed, additional research into these bioactive components may serve to define the value of soy products through their potential ability to support the productivity, health, and well-being of animals.
Development and validation of a simple chromatographic method to screen oral fluid samples for drugs in DUID investigations
Authors: Sarris Gregory G , Abbott Dustin L , Moreno Tiffany M , Maychack Kelly J , Limoges Jennifer F
Published: September 2024

A simple and rapid qualitative chromatographic method with a unique extraction approach was developed and validated to screen oral fluid samples for 31 compounds in driving under the influence of drugs investigations. The scope and sensitivity of the method meets or exceeds Tier I recommendations established by the National Safety Council’s Alcohol, Drugs and Impairment Division. Since this is a targeted chromatographic screen (rather than an immunoassay), cutoffs were set to match the confirmation levels in the recommendations. Sample preparation involved a single-step liquid–liquid extraction procedure, using a mixture of methyl tert-butyl ether, isopropanol, and hexane and was applied to samples collected with the Quantisal™ device. Instrument analysis was conducted by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, using a Restek Raptor™ biphenyl column for chromatographic separations and a total run time of 8 min. Validation results met all requirements of ANSI/ASB Standard 036 (1st edition)—Standard Practices for Method Validation in Forensic Toxicology.
Weight change, variability, and trajectories and risk of hip fracture among older adults with dysglycemia: the cardiovascular health study
Authors: Sarma Shohinee , Bůžková Petra , Elam Rachel E , Fink Howard A , Cauley Jane A , Djoussé Luc , Barzilay Joshua , Mukamal Kenneth J
Published: September 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and lower weight are both associated with osteoporotic fractures, but the roles of variability and trajectory are less clear. The associations of these factors among older adults with dysglycemia, who are at highest risk of fracture, with fracture risk and BMD remain uncertain. We followed 775 men and 1080 women from the Cardiovascular Health Study (mean age 77.4 years) with abnormal oral glucose tolerance testing in 1989-1990. We measured their weights yearly through 1994-1995 and derived intra-individual mean weight, weight slope, and weight variability. We also used growth mixture modeling to derive 4 latent BMI trajectories over time. We used Cox proportional hazards models to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CI for subsequent hip fracture through 2015 and linear regression models to estimate cross-sectional associations with BMD of the hip. Each 10 kg higher mean weight was associated with a lower risk of subsequent hip fracture overall (HR 0.81; CI, 0.70–0.94) and among women (HR 0.76; CI, 0.64–0.91) and with higher BMD (p <.001). Higher weight variability was directly associated with incident hip fracture among women (HR 1.18; CI, 1.03–1.35). Compared with a stable trajectory, a “progressive overweight” trajectory was associated with lower risk of hip fracture (HR 0.66; CI, 0.44–0.99). An uncommon trajectory of “accelerating obesity” was associated with higher BMD. Among older adults with dysglycemia at high risk for fracture, lower mean weight is associated with higher fracture risk, but variability and trajectory may also contribute. These results highlight the complex effects of weight in older age.
Spatial distribution and abundance of non-native barnacles of the genus Amphibalanus Pitombo, 2004 (Cirripedia: Balanidae) in southern Iraq
Authors: Naser Murtada D , Yasser Amaal Gh , De los Ríos-Escalante Patricio R , Essl Franz
Published: September 2024

Invasions of non-native species have been occurring across the globe, mostly due to human activities or climate change. Although most introduced species fail to expand or have slight impact on their new ecosystems, the large number of true invasive species has led to serious economic and ecological problems. Knowledge of the fundamental drivers shaping the current distribution and abundance of invasive species of barnacles of the genus AmphibalanusPitombo, 2004 in Iraq are still poorly understood. We collected samples of barnacles from 21 sites from the lower reaches of the Shatt Al-Arab with salinities of 20–24 ppt to the upper part of the Shatt Al-Arab, and northwest to the Al-Hammar marshes and the Euphrates River with salinities of 0.9–2.8 ppt. Amphibalanus amphitrite (Darwin, 1854) was widely distributed, occurring at most sites. With the exception of a few sites close to the mouth of the Shatt Al-Arab, A. improvisus (Darwin, 1854) was restricted to sites with salinities of 22–37 ppt. Amphibalanus subalbidus (Henry, 1973) had an oligohaline distribution, occurring in moderately saline water. Redundancy analysis (RDA) revealed that the spatial distribution and abundance of all three species were influenced by salinity and temperature. Overall, our results confirm the importance of mapping the spatial distribution and abundance of invasive species in order to assess and manage the risks these species pose to native ecosystems.
The concept of the level playing field in International Economic Law
Authors: Tokas Marios
Published: September 2024

International economic relations are often compared to a sports game. Within this game, states and private companies compete for influence, market shares, and resources. Competition is unfair when the field has a slope. In keeping with this sports analogy, the ‘game’ of international economic relations depends on a level playing field (LPF). International economic exchange is fair only when this playing field lacks a slope. This article argues that the LPF in international economic law does not require fully equalizing the regulatory burden across market actors, even when incorporating sustainability considerations. Instead, whether regulatory divergences lead to an uneven playing field depends on the nature, intensity, and source of such divergences, and varies on a case-by-case basis. This is important because countries have increasingly introduced LPF measures that seek to achieve comparable regulatory burdens. LPF measures cover a wide range of matters, including environmental and labour standards, subsidies, competition law, and state-owned enterprises.
Translating psychosocial safety climate (PSC) into real-world practice: two PSC intervention case studies
Authors: Loh May Young , Dollard Maureen F , McLinton Sarven S , Brough Paula
Published: September 2024

Objectives: Translating research into practice is often a goal for evidence-based organizational researchers to help improve workplace conditions and worker well-being. Improving worker well-being can be achieved by using empirical evidence to inform organizational interventions. However, despite the well-established intervention literature, practitioners appear not to appreciate fully how research findings can inform real-world practice. Using our understanding about workplace safety and health issues, we proposed that employers themselves could undertake interventions that focus on building psychosocial safety climate (PSC), an essential organizational climate that protects and promotes the psychological well-being of workers.

Methods: Here we present 2 case studies to illustrate strategies that improve psychosocial safety and to increase our understanding about how interventions help improve PSC over time. Case Study 1 was conducted in an Australian public organization and Case Study 2 was in an international private organization. We collected survey data using the PSC-12 scale, to assess the level of PSC of the organization before and after the intervention, and details of the intervention and other initiatives for promoting employees’ psychological health.

Results: Our evaluation supported the proposition that interventions that combine organizational-level and individual-level (and the interface between the two) approaches with a focus on the core elements of PSC (such as commitment, priority, communication, and participation) improve an organization’s PSC over time.

Conclusions: The research not only elucidates important practical implications for organizations trialing new psychosocial safety initiatives, but also makes an important contribution to theory in work stress intervention on best practice and principles to build a psychologically healthy work context.
Unravelling the role of dipeptidyl peptidases-8/9 (DPP-8/9) in inflammatory osteoporosis: a comprehensive study investigating chrysin as a potential anti-osteoporotic agent
Authors: Ahmad Syed Sufian , Ahmed Faraha , Alam Mohd Mumtaz , Ahmad Sayeed , Khan Mohammad Ahmed
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the role of dipeptidyl peptidase-8 and 9 (DPP-8/9) enzymes in inflammatory bone loss using a 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD)-induced model in Wistar rats. Additionally, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of inhibiting these enzymes with the flavonoid chrysin.

Methods

Inflammatory osteoporosis was induced by administering VCD that elevated interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels. DPP-8/9 enzyme expression and various bone markers were assayed using serum. Further analysis included bone microarchitecture, histology, and immunohistochemistry. Additionally, chrysin’s potential to inhibit DPP-8/9 and mitigate VCD-induced inflammatory bone loss was also evaluated.

Key findings

VCD administration in rats caused ovotoxicity that increased IL-6 and TNF-α levels, resulting in significant bone loss. Serum analysis revealed elevated bone resorption markers and DPP-8/9 enzyme levels. Inhibiting DPP-8/9 with 1G244 reversed these effects, confirmed by histology, immunohistochemistry, and micro-CT scans. Moreover, chrysin significantly reduced DPP-8/9 levels compared with the untreated group, improved bone markers, and lower inflammatory cytokines, indicating reduced osteoclastogenesis.

Conclusion

This study highlights the role of DPP-8/9 in inflammation-induced osteoporosis. Following inhibition of DPP-8/9, we observed improved bone markers with preservation of trabecular bone mineral density in rats. Additionally, chrysin demonstrated potential as an anti-DPP-8/9 agent, suggesting its viability for future therapeutic interventions in DPP-8/9-related inflammatory diseases.
Inference for extreme spatial temperature events in a changing climate with application to Ireland
Authors: Healy Dáire , Tawn Jonathan , Thorne Peter , Parnell Andrew
Published: September 2024

We investigate the changing nature of the frequency, magnitude, and spatial extent of extreme temperatures in Ireland from 1942 to 2020. We develop an extreme value model that captures spatial and temporal non-stationarity in extreme daily maximum temperature data. We model the tails of the marginal variables using the generalised Pareto distribution and the spatial dependence of extreme events by a semi-parametric Brown-Resnick r-Pareto process, with parameters of each model allowed to change over time. We use weather station observations for modelling extreme events since data from climate models (not conditioned on observational data) can over-smooth these events and have trends determined by the specific climate model configuration. However, climate models do provide valuable information about the detailed physiography over Ireland and the associated climate response. We propose novel methods which exploit the climate model data to overcome issues linked to the sparse and biased sampling of the observations. Our analysis identifies a temporal change in the marginal behaviour of extreme temperature events over the study domain, which is much larger than the change in mean temperature levels over this time window. We illustrate how these characteristics result in increased spatial coverage of the events that exceed critical temperatures.
Benign hibernoma mimicking a cardiac liposarcoma
Authors: Wyant Kody , Shobayo Titilayo Oden , Rojo Manuel R , Abdelsattar Zaid M , Kinno Menhel , Schwartz Jeffrey
Published: September 2024

Despite the low incidence of primary cardiac tumors, recently at our institution, we have experienced two very rare tumors in the span of just a few months. Hibernomas are rare tumors of brown adipose tissue origin that share the benign clinical features of a lipoma, but on imaging mimic the more aggressive sarcoma. Here we present two separate cases of otherwise healthy patients who were found incidentally to have these asymptomatic tumors.
Perception of normal and treatment level ejaculatory latency times in men with premature ejaculation
Authors: Wang Chunlin , Colonnello Elena , Sansone Andrea , Zhang Hui , Zhu Dake , Jannini Emmanuele A , Zhang Yan
Published: September 2024

Background

Although the normal intravaginal ejaculation latency time (NIELT) as subjectively perceived by patients with premature ejaculation (PE) and expected IELT (EIELT), which represents the individual’s expectations of what treatment for PE would achieve, are critically influential in the treatment of patients with PE, there is a significant dearth of exploratory research on NIELT and EIELT among patients with PE.

Aim

To explore the NIELT and EIELT of patients with PE, understand why patients with PE perceive such a long IELT as normal, and identify factors associated with EIELT.

Methods

We recruited both patients with PE and control subjects, and analyzed the parameters related to IELT using detailed interviews and questionnaires.

Outcomes

Parameters related to IELT.

Results

A total of 592 individuals (mean age 29.6 ± 6.2) were included in the study, comprising 466 patients with PE (mean age 28.3 ± 5.4) and 126 non-PE individuals (mean age 34.6 ± 6.5). The actual perceived intravaginal ejaculation latency time (PIELT), referring to the patient’s self-assessed IELT at baseline, as well as NIELT, and EIELT of patients with PE, were 1.0 (1.0 − 2.0), 14.0 (10.0 − 15.0), and 15.0 (10.0 − 20.0), respectively. The control group’s PIELT and EIELT were 15.0 (10.0 − 20.0) and 20.0 (15.0 − 24.3), respectively, showing statistical differences compared with the PIELT and EIELT in the PE group. In the PE group and the control group, 31.5% and 57.9% of individuals, respectively, have an EIELT greater than the average actual normal ejaculatory latency time of 15.0 minutes. Among patients with PE, 51.3% expressed a NIELT >10 minutes, identical to the EIELT in a higher percentage (59.4%). The control group’s EIELT is 5 minutes longer than the PE group’s EIELT. Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that age, marital status, education level, BMI, satisfaction evaluation of PIELT, PEDT score, and IIEF-6 score were not associated with EIELT; only NIELT (beta = 0.817, P < 0.001) and PIELT (beta = 0.056, P = 0.044) were related to EIELT.

Clinical implications

Sexual health care providers should be aware that patients with PE have excessively high expectations for IELT.

Strengths and limitation

The first study explores why patients with clinically diagnosed PE perceive long IELT as normal and examines factors associated with EIELT. Further validation is needed in different cultural contexts.

Conclusion

Patients with PE often have excessively high expectations regarding IELT, primarily due to their insufficient understanding of IELT.
Imported malaria in China
Authors: Zoller Thomas
Published: September 2024

Information on imported malaria in China has been scarce in the past due to language barriers and poor access to information. The review by Zhu et al. now sheds light on malaria imported into China in the pre-pandemic period, which is essential to inform travel and migrant health recommendations in the Asian region.
Good Oilfield Practice: its history and evolution
Authors: Martin A Timothy
Published: September 2024

Good Oilfield Practice sets the standards that oil and gas operators use to conduct their operations. This article provides a comprehensive, historical analysis of Good Oilfield Practice from its origins from more than a century ago to today’s modern global industry. It has constantly evolved to cover all facets of the oil and gas industry, which reflects the risk, complexity, and uncertainty associated with the industry’s operations. Good Oilfield Practice is often described differently with different names and consists of many standards. It is not a single standard. It is many. It is both an objective and a negligence standard. Good Oilfield Practice comes from a number of sources, including the industry’s agreements and its regulatory framework. There is a distinction between good and best practices, even when there may be challenges in determining what is ‘best’. Given the many similarities and synergies, the standards developed in the oil and gas industry are now migrating to other energy sectors.
Sterility of basal spikelets in wheat: predetermined fate or a matter of resources?
Authors: Tamagno Santiago , Carrera Constanza S , Marchese Sofia I , Savin Roxana , Slafer Gustavo A
Published: September 2024

Grains per spike in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) are not uniformly distributed. Basal spikelets are typically sterile (or rudimentary) under common agronomic field conditions leading to the assumption that this is a constitutive trait. Yet, it is unknown whether high resource availability per plant could prevent floret mortality in basal spikelets. We present data from two field experiments assessing spike fertility in the four most basal spikelets of spikes from the main shoot and tillers. A collection of genotypes with different years of release and tillering habits were grown under contrasting sowing densities (agronomic densities versus isolated plants) to generate a condition of high assimilate supply to the spike. Under agronomic densities, the four most basal positions presented sterility in almost all cases in the main shoot spikes and without exception in the tiller spikes. When plants were isolated in each experiment, sterility in basal spikelets was absent and less frequent in spikes from the main shoot and tillers. Moreover, in the isolated condition, modern genotypes had a higher number of grains per spikelet than their older counterparts, whereas genotypes with low tillering habit showed the least response in spikelet fertility. These results indicate that while the predetermined lanceolate shape of spikes leads to the sterility of basal spikelets at high densities, this sterility can be reversed if assimilates become more available. Thus, sterility of basal spikelets in common agronomic conditions is not a constitutive condition of the spike.
Evaluating early intervention in smoldering myeloma clinical trials: a systematic review
Authors: Kakkilaya Apoorva , Trando Aaron , Cliff Edward R Scheffer , Mian Hira , Al Hadidi Samer , Aziz Muhammad , Goodman Aaron M , Jeong Ah-Reum , Smith Wade L , Kelkar Amar H , Russler-Germain David A , Mehra Nikita , Chakraborty Rajshekhar , Gertz Morie A , Mohyuddin Ghulam Rehman
Published: September 2024

Background

Smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM), an asymptomatic precursor of multiple myeloma (MM), carries a variable risk of progression to MM. There is little consensus on the efficacy or optimal timing of treatment in SMM. We systematically reviewed the landscape of all clinical trials in SMM. We compared the efficacy of treatment regimens studied in SMM to results from these regimens when used in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM), to determine whether the data suggest deeper responses in SMM versus NDMM.

Methods

All prospective interventional clinical trials for SMM, including published studies, meeting abstracts, and unpublished trials listed on ClinicalTrials.gov up to April 1, 2023, were identified. Trial-related variables were captured, including treatment strategy and efficacy results. Relevant clinical endpoints were defined as overall survival (OS) and quality of life.

Results

Among 45 SMM trials identified, 38 (84.4%) assessed active myeloma drugs, while 7 (15.6%) studied bone-modifying agents alone. Of 18 randomized trials in SMM, only one (5.6%) had a primary endpoint of OS; the most common primary endpoint was progression-free survival (n = 7, 38.9%). Among 32 SMM trials with available results, 9 (28.1%) met their prespecified primary endpoint, of which 5 were single-arm studies. Six treatment regimens were tested in both SMM and NDMM; 5 regimens yielded a lower rate of very good partial response rate or better (≥VGPR) in SMM compared to the corresponding NDMM trial (32% vs 63%, 43% vs 53%, 40% vs 63%, 86% vs 89%, 92% vs 95%, and 94% vs 87%, respectively).

Conclusion

In this systematic review of all prospective interventional clinical trials in SMM, we found significant variability in trial design, including randomization status, primary endpoints, and types of intervention used. Despite the statistical limitations, comparison of treatment regimens revealed no compelling evidence that the treatment is more effective when introduced early in SMM compared to NDMM.
The strigolactone receptor DWARF14 regulates flowering time in Arabidopsis
Authors: Bai Jinrui , Lei Xi , Liu Jinlan , Huang Yi , Bi Lumei , Wang Yuehua , Li Jindong , Yu Haiyang , Yao Shixiang , Chen Li , Janssen Bart J , Snowden Kimberley C , Zhang Meng , Yao Ruifeng
Published: September 2024

Multiple plant hormones, including strigolactone (SL), play key roles in regulating flowering time. The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) DWARF14 (AtD14) receptor perceives SL and recruits F-box protein MORE AXILLARY GROWTH2 (MAX2) and the SUPPRESSOR OF MAX2-LIKE (SMXL) family proteins. These interactions lead to the degradation of the SMXL repressor proteins, thereby regulating shoot branching, leaf shape, and other developmental processes. However, the molecular mechanism by which SL regulates plant flowering remains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that intact strigolactone biosynthesis and signaling pathways are essential for normal flowering in Arabidopsis. Loss-of-function mutants in both SL biosynthesis (max3) and signaling (Atd14 and max2) pathways display earlier flowering, whereas the repressor triple mutant smxl6/7/8 (s678) exhibits the opposite phenotype. Retention of AtD14 in the cytoplasm leads to its inability to repress flowering. Moreover, we show that nuclear-localized AtD14 employs dual strategies to enhance the function of the AP2 transcription factor TARGET OF EAT1 (TOE1). AtD14 directly binds to TOE1 in an SL-dependent manner and stabilizes it. In addition, AtD14-mediated degradation of SMXL7 releases TOE1 from the repressor protein, allowing it to bind to and inhibit the FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) promoter. This results in reduced FT transcription and delayed flowering. In summary, AtD14 perception of SL enables the transcription factor TOE1 to repress flowering, providing insights into hormonal control of plant flowering.
Development and exploratory evaluation of substance use and substance use disorder training for the Washington State Basic Law Enforcement Academy
Authors: Owens Mandy D , McKee Melody , Rickert Christine , Rogel Brandon , Starnes Becky
Published: September 2024

Washington State passed a 2021 law requiring all new law enforcement officers to receive training on substance use disorder (SUD). This project developed and conducted an exploratory evaluation of the effectiveness of the new SUD training among recruits completing the Washington State Basic Law Enforcement Academy. Recruits completed surveys at the start (“pre”) and end (“post”) of the Academy. Surveys included two subscales from the Drug and Drug Problem Perceptions Questionnaire. ANOVA analyses compared pre-post changes in ratings among recruits completing the Academy with and without the new SUD training. Recruits (n = 211) receiving the new SUD training reported increases on almost all questions of knowledge of alcohol and drugs and professional self-esteem working with SUD (Fs = 4.6-23.157, ps < 0.05). Recruits (n = 59) not receiving the SUD training reported little to no changes in knowledge or professional self-esteem. The SUD training was effective in giving recruits evidence-based SUD information and confidence to interact effectively with people with SUD.
A performance comparison study between two HPGe lung counters with different detector configurations
Authors: Naito Masayuki , Tamakuma Yuki , Mihei Yuma , Yajima Kazuaki , Tani Kotaro , Kim Eunjoo , Kowatari Munehiko , Kurihara Osamu
Published: September 2024

This study compares the performance of old and new lung counters in the National Institutes for Quantum Sciences and Technology of Japan. The total sensitive area of the detector crystals for the new lung counter is ~15% smaller than that for the old lung counter. Minimum detectable activities (MDAs) for 241Am and 239Pu were evaluated through experiments using a Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory torso phantom. Despite differences in detector configuration, the MDAs were found to be comparable between the two lung counters. For a chest wall thickness of 2.1 cm and a counting time of 30 min, the MDAs of 241Am and 239Pu were 5.7 and 2300 Bq for the old lung counter, and 5.5 and 2600 Bq for the new lung counter, respectively. Experimental results for the relative sensitivities between left-side and right-side detectors suggested that the new lung counter offered better measurement geometry.
Energy resolution improvement in simplified alpha spectroscopy for radionuclidic purity tests on 225Ac production floors
Authors: Mihei Yuma , Tani Kotaro , Ichinose Jun , Nagatsu Kotaro , Fukushi Masahiro , Kurihara Osamu , Inoue Kazumasa
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the feasibility of a simplified method of alpha spectroscopy for radionuclidic purity tests at 225Ac production sites that eliminates the need for a vacuum chamber. The impact of enhancing the energy resolution using a collimator was evaluated through radiation transport simulations. The results showed that a full width at tenth maximum (FWTM) of <300 keV was achieved for alpha particles from 241Am, for which the main energy peak was 5.5 MeV. Experimental validation using an electrodeposition source containing 237Np, 241Am, and 244Cm confirmed an FWTM of 272 keV for both 241Am and 244Cm. These two peaks, with a difference of ~300 keV, were effectively separated. In response to the growing demand for targeted radioisotope therapy, this simplified alpha spectroscopy method offers the potential to detect 226Ra mixed with 225Ac generated by accelerators, given the alpha energy difference of ~700 keV.
Rewriting Febles, Decolonialising Exclusion
Authors: Fynn Bruey Veronica , Grey Colin
Published: September 2024

Article 1F(b) of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees denies refugee protection to persons who have committed a “serious non-political crime.” In Febles v. Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2014 SCC 68, a majority of the Supreme Court of Canada held that the “seriousness” of a crime is to be determined based on the offence at the time it was committed. Later developments, such as serving a sentence or rehabilitation, do not factor in the analysis. Febles remains the leading apex court decision on determining seriousness. We argue the majority’s analysis creates the potential for both material and epistemic injustice. We then rewrite Febles by drawing on criminal law theory and a variety of critical perspectives, most notably critical race theory, decolonial theory, and Third World Approaches to International Law. On our rewrite, crimes meet the threshold of “seriousness” if they represent an intrinsic threat to the civil order of any State, hence indirectly a threat to the international order. Exclusion holds refugee status in abeyance until the goals of criminal justice have been met with respect to such crimes. If they have, either through formal or informal means, a claimant should not be excluded.
Poor-Quality Legal Advice: Re-Imagining How Immigration Detention Centres Should Run in England
Authors: Riaz Ayesha
Published: September 2024

The High Court of England and Wales in the case of R (Detention Action) v Lord Chancellor, ruled that the Lord Chancellor had acted lawfully due to the way he operated the Detention Duty Advice Scheme (hereafter “DDAS”). The DDAS is a publicly funded legal service provided to detainees in immigration detention centres. Under it, all detainees are eligible to receive up to 30 minutes of free advice from legal representatives. This approach to detention has been critiqued by scholars on the grounds that a lack of time is afforded to detainees. Some research has been undertaken on the lack of availability of publicly funded legal advice in detention. However, existing literature has yet to canvass the issue in relation to the relaxation of the rules in 2018, whereby contracts were awarded to legal aid providers that lacked experience of dealing with detainees. In this article, I address this lacuna by arguing that detainees were hindered from accessing good-quality legal advice as a result of the lack of experience and expertise of the newer providers. Therefore, I will consider ways of remedying the current dysfunctional system.
Income Inequality, World Polity, and Political Secularization: A Comparative Historical Analysis (1870–2014)
Authors: Huft Justin , Hekmatpour Peyman
Published: September 2024

Previous works find descriptive evidence for a long-term political secularization trend during the nineteenth century, and a political desecularization trend starting in the late 1970s. This study, however, is an attempt to go beyond mere descriptions of global trends by introducing a methodological approach that can effectively account for the differences between countries in their paths either toward or away from political secularization. We use growth curve models to estimate country-specific trajectories of political secularization, and then condition these trajectories on nations’ historically predominant religions as well as geographic locations as a time-invariant independent variable. Overall, results suggest that there is a significant heterogeneity in trajectories of political secularization. Results suggest that as income inequality increases, so does the government’s preference for religion. Moreover, as countries become more embedded in the world polity (measured by increased number of international governmental organizations memberships), governments tend to lose their preference for religion.
Reflections on a linear algebra reading comprehension exercise arising from macroeconomics
Authors: Meyer John Christopher
Published: September 2024

We reflect on a reading comprehension exercise given in a linear algebra course to joint honours students enrolled in their first year on an Applied Mathematics with Economics undergraduate degree programme. The exercise first required students to read a proof of a Hawkins–Simon condition, which contained some intended minor mistakes. Students were then required to identify and fix the mistakes; apply the theorem to guarantee the existence of a solution to a simple instance of such a system; and explain how they could use the theorem in more generality. Consequently, we highlight how reading comprehension exercises can be used to evidence students’ attainment of attributes they should typically have obtained via their undergraduate degree studies.
Brain mitochondrial damage attenuation by quercetin and N-acetyl cysteine: peripheral and central antiemetic effects
Authors: Abolfazli Sajad , Foroumand Sarvenaz , Mohammadi Elham , Ahangar Nematollah , Kheirandish Ali , Fathi Hamed , Mohammadi Hamidreza
Published: September 2024

Nausea serves as a protective mechanism in organisms to prevent excessive consumption of toxic substances. Due to the adverse effects of chemical anti-nausea drugs, there is a growing interest in using herbal remedies and natural antioxidants. In this study, we evaluated the neuroprotective effects of quercetin (QU) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) against oxidative damage induced by nausea. Emesis was induced in chickens using ipecac and copper sulfate (600 and 60 mg/kg, orally, respectively). QU and NAC (with doses of 50, 100, 200 mg/kg), and their combination were administered, along with a standard therapy (metoclopramide; MET 2 mg/kg) for one-time. Mitochondrial function, lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl (PC), glutathione level (GSH), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as oxidative damage biomarkers were evaluated in the chicken’s brain mitochondria. QU and NAC significantly reduced emesis induced by copper sulfate and ipecac compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Significant differences in oxidative damage were observed in the groups received of copper sulfate and ipecac compared with control group. Levels of LPO, ROS, and PC were significantly decreased after the administration of QU and NAC in emesis induced by copper sulfate and ipecac. While, mitochondrial function and GSH levels were increased after the administration of QU and NAC. Combination therapy with QU and NAC yielded the most effective results. This study suggests that QU and NAC possess antiemetic effects through both peripheral and central mechanisms and exhibit neuroprotective effects against oxidative brain damage induced by emesis by increasing plasma antioxidants or scavenging free radicals.
Stakeholder Knowledge Regarding Fungicide Resistance in Agriculture and Its Relationship with Fungicide Resistance in Human Pathogens
Authors: Hester Erin , Wise Kiersten A.
Published: September 2024

The role of agricultural fungicide use has been established in fungicide resistance occurrence in plant pathogens and is now implicated in the development of fungicide resistance in human fungal pathogens. An online survey was conducted primarily in Kentucky to assess grain crop farmers’ understanding of fungicide resistance development and their awareness of how human fungal pathogens may be impacted by agricultural fungicide use. Survey participants were also asked why they use fungicides, even in the absence of a disease threat. The majority of survey respondents indicated their awareness of fungicide resistance in agricultural crops, but less than 50% of respondents demonstrated knowledge of fungicide resistance development in human fungal pathogens. Most respondents indicated that they use fungicides primarily for crop health benefits, even in the absence of a disease threat. These results highlight the need for educational programs that educate farmers about judicious fungicide use and the role of fungicide use in fungicide resistance development in both plant and human pathogens.
Defining the Secondary Metabolites in the Pseudomonas protegens PBL3 Secretome with Antagonistic Activity Against Burkholderia glumae
Authors: Dahal Shilu , Alvarez Sophie , Balboa Samantha J. , Hicks Leslie M. , Rojas Clemencia M.
Published: September 2024

Rice production worldwide is threatened by the disease bacterial panicle blight (BPB) caused by Burkholderia glumae. Despite the threat, resources to control this disease, such as completely resistant cultivars or effective chemical methods, are still lacking. However, the need to control this disease has paved the way to explore biologically based approaches harnessing the antimicrobial activities of environmental bacteria. Previously, the bacterium Pseudomonas protegens PBL3 was identified as a potential biological control agent against B. glumae due to its antimicrobial activity against B. glumae. Such antimicrobial activity in vitro and in planta was associated with the P. protegens PBL3 bacteria-free secreted fraction (secretome), although the specific molecules responsible for this activity have remained elusive. In this work, we advance the characterization of the P. protegens PBL3 secretome by evaluating the antimicrobial activity in vitro of selected secondary metabolites predicted by the P. protegens PBL3 genomic sequence against B. glumae. In addition, using reversed-phase liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry of the P. protegens PBL3 secretome enabled us to successfully detect and quantify pyoluteorin, 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol, and pyochelin. Among those, pyoluteorin and 2,4-diacetylphloroglucinol reduced the growth of B. glumae in vitro, along with reducing the symptoms of BPB and bacterial growth in planta, suggesting that these compounds could be effective as biopesticides to mitigate BPB.
Routine Use of Videolaryngoscopy in Airway Management
Authors: Orrock Jane Louise , Ward Patrick Alexander , McNarry Alistair Ferris
Published: September 2024

Tracheal intubation is a fundamental facet of airway management, for which the importance of achieving success at the first attempt is well recognized. Failure to do so can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if there is inadequate patient oxygenation by alternate means. The evidence supporting the benefits of a videolaryngoscope in attaining this objective is now overwhelming (in adults). This has led to its increasing recognition in international airway management guidelines and its promotion from an occasional airway rescue tool to the first-choice device during routine airway management. However, usage in clinical practice does not currently reflect the increased worldwide availability that followed the upsurge in videolaryngoscope purchasing during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. There are a number of obstacles to widespread adoption, including lack of adequate training, fears over de-skilling at direct laryngoscopy, equipment and cleaning costs, and concerns over the environmental impact, among others. It is now clear that in order for patients to benefit maximally from the technology and for airway managers to fully appreciate its role in everyday practice, proper training and education are necessary. Recent research evidence has addressed some existing barriers to default usage, and the emergence of techniques such as awake videolaryngoscopy and video-assisted flexible (bronchoscopic) intubation has also increased the scope of clinical application. Future studies will likely further confirm the superiority of videolaryngoscopy over direct laryngoscopy, therefore, it is incumbent upon all airway managers (and their teams) to gain expertise in videolaryngoscopy and to use it routinely in their everyday practice..
Perioxygenation During Advanced Airway Management
Authors: Hendrickson Eric , de Castro Maria , Behringer Elizabeth Cordes
Published: September 2024

Advanced airway management is a skill that is used every day in patient care settings throughout the world. Albeit common, it is not benign. Advanced airway management may either be elective or urgent; in either case, it may result in significant patient morbiidity and mortality. The complications of difficult or failed endotracheal intubation can be severe and include death or permanent neurologic injury. Difficulty or failure with advanced airway management often coincides with the onset of hypoxia. The onset of hypoxia affects both the patient and the airway manager. While hypoxemia may result in dysrhythmias and ultimately cardiac arrest for the patient, it adds time pressure and stress to the airway manager, and thus may impact successful performance. In this review, we will discuss how to identify patients at risk for rapid desaturation during advanced airway management. Additionally, methods of peri-oxygenation throughout the performance of airway management will be discussed.
Association Between Metformin Use in Early Gestational or Type 2 Diabetes in Pregnancy and Preterm Preeclampsia
Authors: Patel Maya , Battarbee Ashley N. , Refuerzo Jerrie S. , Zork Noelia , Eichelberger Kacey , Ramos Gladys A. , Olson Gayle , Durnwald Celeste , Landon Mark B. , Aagaard Kjersti M. , Wallace Kedra , Scifres Christina , Rosen Todd , Mulla Wadia , Valent Amy , Longo Sherri , Boggess Kim A.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE:

To estimate the association between maternal metformin use for the treatment of early gestational or pre-existing type 2 diabetes and preterm preeclampsia.

METHODS:

This is a planned secondary analysis of the MOMPOD study (Medical Optimization of Management of Overt Type 2 Diabetes in Pregnancy), a randomized trial comparing the effect of adding metformin with insulin treatment on composite neonatal outcome in singleton pregnancies with early gestational or type 2 diabetes. Participants were randomized at 11–23 weeks of gestation to 1,000 mg metformin twice daily or placebo until delivery. A subset of participants had maternal blood collected at 24–30 weeks of gestation, and serum soluble endoglin, apolipoprotein B, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, placental growth factor, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, adiponectin, and vascular endothelial growth factor levels were measured. Our primary outcome was preterm preeclampsia, defined as preeclampsia requiring delivery before 37 weeks of gestation. Secondary outcomes included preterm preeclampsia requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation and differences in serum biomarkers. Multivariable regression analysis was used to estimate the associations between metformin use and primary or secondary study outcomes.

RESULTS:

Of 831 participants, 119 (14.3%) developed preeclampsia requiring delivery before 37 weeks of gestation: 57 of 416 (13.7%) in the placebo group and 62 of 415 (14.9%) in the metformin group. Thirty-seven (4.4%) developed preeclampsia requiring delivery before 34 weeks of gestation: 15 (3.6%) receiving placebo and 22 (5.3%) receiving metformin. Compared with placebo, metformin was not associated with a significant difference in the occurrence of preeclampsia before 37 weeks of gestation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.04, 95% CI, 0.70–1.56) or before 34 weeks (aOR 1.43, 95% CI, 0.73–2.81). Similarly, there was no association between maternal metformin use and serum biomarker levels.

CONCLUSION:

Among parturients with early gestational or pre-existing type 2 diabetes, the addition of metformin to insulin was not associated with lower odds of preterm preeclampsia or with serum biomarkers associated with cardiovascular disease risk.
Patient Perspectives on Evolving Diverticulitis Treatment: An Assessment of Patient Willingness to Enroll in a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Altman-Merino Annie , Bonnet Kemberlee , Schlundt David , Wrenn Jesse , Self Wesley H. , Gordon Elisa J. , Hawkins Alexander T.
Published: September 2024

Objective:

The objective of the study was to assess patients’ attitudes regarding participation in a randomized trial of antibiotics versus placebo for acute diverticulitis.

Background:

Despite evidence that antibiotics may not be necessary to treat acute uncomplicated diverticulitis, they remain the mainstay of treatment in the United States. A randomized trial in the United States evaluating antibiotic effectiveness could accelerate the implementation of antibiotic-free treatment, but providers maintain concerns that patients may be unwilling to participate.

Methods:

This mixed-methods study conducted semi-structured interviews of patients presenting to a quaternary care emergency department with acute diverticulitis and a web-based survey of a larger cohort. The interviews assessed patients’ experiences with diverticulitis and perceptions of participation in a trial comparing antibiotics versus placebo. The survey quantified patients’ willingness to participate in such a study and the relative importance of factors influencing the process.

Results:

Thirteen patients completed an interview. Reasons to participate included a desire to help others or contribute to scientific knowledge. Doubts about the efficacy of observation as a treatment method were the main barrier to participation. In a survey of 218 subjects, 62% of respondents reported willingness to participate in a randomized clinical trial. “What my doctor thinks,” followed by “What I have experienced in the past” were the most important decision-making factors.

Conclusion:

Patients with acute uncomplicated diverticulitis maintain complex and varying perceptions of antibiotic use. Most surveyed patients would be willing to participate in a trial of antibiotics versus placebo. Our findings support the trial’s feasibility and may facilitate an informed approach to recruitment and consent.