bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Open Fetal Surgery for Ventricular-Amniotic Valve Implantation in Aqueductal Stenosis-Dependent Severe Fetal Hydrocephalus: A Case Report with 7-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Zamłyński Mateusz , Olejek Anita , Koszutski Tomasz , Bohosiewicz Janusz , Mandera Marek , Zamłyński Jacek , Maruniak-Chudek Iwona , Herman-Sucharska Izabela , Pastuszka Agnieszka
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Fetal ventriculomegaly is one of the most commonly diagnosed central nervous system pathologies of the second trimester, occurring with a frequency of 0.3–0.5/1,000 births. Severe fetal ventriculomegaly (SVM) may necessitate intrauterine intervention. Most such interventions have been made percutaneously with ultrasound guidance insertion of a pigtail catheter, which sadly often became obstructed or migrated. Case Presentation: Our case report presents the possibility of ventriculo-amniotic valve implantation (VAVI) by classic hysterotomy in isolated severe fetal hydrocephalus (IVSM) due to aqueductal stenosis. The patient was operated on similarly to open fetal surgery MOMS criteria at 24+4/7 GA, with an initial lateral ventricular dimension of 22.5 mm. A female newborn was delivered by elective cesarean section at 31+1/7 GA due to PPROM (Apgar 10’ 8 points, birth weight 1,600 g), required CPAP, and removal of the drainage system due to infection and narrow lateral ventricles. Evans index (EI) gradual increase and clinical symptoms of high-pressure hydrocephalus after 10 days required a ventricle-peritoneal shunt (VPS) implantation. The newborn was discharged home after 28 days with stabile hydrocephalus (EI: 0.59–0.6), in good clinical condition. The 7-year follow-up was complicated by epilepsy, VPS shunt infections, delay in motor and intellectual functions (mild to moderate), and symptoms of atypical autism, the phenotype possibly related to a variant in ZEB2 gene. Conclusion: Intrauterine VAVI is a one-step procedure that is effective in draining CFS. The limitations of the method remain complications due to preterm labor and infection of the drainage system.
Association of the Intensive Blood Pressure Target and Cardiovascular Outcomes in the Population With Chronic Kidney Disease: A Retrospective Study in Korea
Authors: Yoon Soo‐Young , Kong Ji Yoon , Jeong Su Jin , Kim Jin Sug , Hwang Hyeon Seok , Jeong Kyunghwan
Published: March 2024

Background

Recently, the target systolic blood pressure (BP) <120 mm Hg was suggested in the population with chronic kidney disease. We aimed to determine the applicability of intensified BP and to assess the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the population with chronic kidney disease.

Methods and Results

Participants who were >20 years old and had estimated glomerular filtration rate 15 to 60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
during 2009 to 2011 were included from the database of Korean National Health Insurance Service and were followed up to 2018. Participants were categorized by BP as <120/80 mm Hg; 120 to 129/<80 mm Hg; 130 to 139/80 to 89 mm Hg; ≥140/90 mm Hg. The primary outcome was CVD risk and the secondary outcomes were all‐cause mortality and progression to end‐stage renal disease followed by subgroup analysis. Among the 45 263 adults with chronic kidney disease, 5196 CVD events were noted. In Cox regression analysis, higher BP was associated with a higher risk for CVD (hazard ratio [HR], 1.15 [95% CI, 1.12–1.19];
P
for trend <0.001), end‐stage renal disease (HR, 1.29 [95% CI, 1.22–1.37];
P
for trend <0.001), and all‐cause mortality (HR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.06–1.13];
P
for trend <0.001) than BP <120/80 mm Hg. In subgroup analysis, the association between BP and CVD showed a different trend in participants taking antihypertensives compared with those not using antihypertensive drugs. When comparing BP‐treated individuals to untreated individuals, a significant interaction in the association between BP categories and end‐stage renal disease was observed.

Conclusions

The new intensive BP target proposed by 2021 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes should be applied to patients with chronic kidney disease in a personalized and advisory manner.
Integrative Assessment of Cardiopulmonary Fitness Using Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test With Supine Bicycle Echocardiography in Patients Presenting Dyspnea
Authors: Park Jiesuck , Ahn Houng‐Beom , Choi Hyejung , Choi Hong‐Mi , Hwang In‐Chang , Yoon Yeonyee E. , Cho Goo‐Yeong
Published: March 2024

Background

Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) with supine bicycle echocardiography (SBE) enables comprehensive physiologic assessment during exercise. We characterized cardiopulmonary fitness by integrating CPET‐SBE parameters and evaluated its prognostic value in patients presenting with dyspnea.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively reviewed 473 consecutive patients who underwent CPET‐SBE for dyspnea evaluation. A dimensionality reduction process was applied, transforming 24 clinical and CPET‐SBE parameters into a 2‐dimensional feature map, followed by patient clustering based on the data distribution. Clinical and exercise features were compared among the clusters in addition to the 5‐year risk of clinical outcome (a composite of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization). Maximum exercise effort (
R
>1) was achieved in 95% of cases. Through dimensionality reduction, 3 patient clusters were derived: Group 1 (n=157), 2 (n=104), and 3 (n=212). Median age and female proportion increased from Group 1 to 2, and 3, although resting echocardiography parameters showed no significant abnormalities among the groups. There was a worsening trend in the exercise response from Group 1 to 2 and 3, including left ventricular diastolic function, oxygen consumption, and ventilatory efficiency. During follow‐up (median 6.0 [1.6–10.4] years), clinical outcome increased from Group 1 to 2 and 3 (5‐year rate 3.7% versus 7.0% versus 13.0%, respectively; log‐rank
P
=0.02), with higher risk in Group 2 (hazard ratio, 1.94 [95% CI, 0.52–7.22]) and Group 3 (3.92 [1.34–11.42]) compared with Group 1.

Conclusions

Comprehensive evaluation using CPET‐SBE can reveal distinct characteristics of cardiopulmonary fitness in patients presenting with dyspnea, potentially enhancing outcome prediction.
Geometric deep learning for diffusion MRI signal reconstruction with continuous samplings (DISCUS)
Authors: Ewert Christian , Kügler David , Stirnberg Rüdiger , Koch Alexandra , Yendiki Anastasia , Reuter Martin
Published: March 2024

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) permits a detailed in-vivo analysis of neuroanatomical microstructure, invaluable for clinical and population studies. However, many measurements with different diffusion-encoding directions and possibly b-values are necessary to infer the underlying tissue microstructure within different imaging voxels accurately. Two challenges particularly limit the utility of dMRI: long acquisition times limit feasible scans to only a few directional measurements, and the heterogeneity of acquisition schemes across studies makes it difficult to combine datasets. Left unaddressed by previous learning-based methods that only accept dMRI data adhering to the specific acquisition scheme used for training, there is a need for methods that accept and predict signals for arbitrary diffusion encodings. Addressing these challenges, we describe the first geometric deep learning method for continuous dMRI signal reconstruction for arbitrary diffusion sampling schemes for both the input and output. Our method combines the reconstruction accuracy and robustness of previous learning-based methods with the flexibility of model-based methods, for example, spherical harmonics or SHORE. We demonstrate that our method outperforms model-based methods and performs on par with discrete learning-based methods on single-, multi-shell, and grid-based diffusion MRI datasets. Relevant for dMRI-derived analyses, we show that our reconstruction translates to higher-quality estimates of frequently used microstructure models compared to other reconstruction methods, enabling high-quality analyses even from very short dMRI acquisitions.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Calendula (Asteraceae) in the Canary Islands
Authors: SIMÃO INÊS , REYES-BETANCORT J. ALFREDO , TALHINHAS PEDRO , MORAIS-CECÍLIO LEONOR , SILVEIRA PAULO
Published: March 2024

A taxonomic revision of the genus Calendula (Asteraceae – Calenduleae) for the Canary Islands is presented. An extensive morphometric analysis was conducted on specimens held in several herbaria and collected by the team, as well as chromosome counts and genome size estimates. Four species of Calendula were recognized in the islands: C. arvensis, C. officinalis, C. ricardoi, and C. sventenii, the latter two being new taxa, described for the first time in this work. Descriptions, an identification key, distribution areas, ecology and conservation assessments for each taxon are presented, as well as discussions of the possible origins of the taxa in the territory.
A new combination in Handroanthus (Bignoniaceae) from Brazil
Authors: NASCIMENTO MATHEUS , B. PASTORE JOSÉ FLORIANO , R. ZUNTINI ALEXANDRE
Published: March 2024

While reviewing Vellozo’s Bignoniaceae names in Floræ Fluminensis, a nomenclatural novelty came to light. The name Bignonia longiflora Vellozo, being a later homonym of B. longiflora Cavanilles, was deemed illegitimate. Consequently, Vellozo’s name was eventually replaced with Tecoma speciosa Candolle ex Martius. However, when Tabebuia Gomes ex Candolle was considered the correct genus for this, the final combination ‘Tabebuia speciosa’ was not presented as it was blocked by Tabebuia speciosa Standley (1930). Instead, Tabebuia vellosoi Toledo (1952) was proposed in order to assign a name for Bignonia longiflora Vell. illeg., / Tecoma speciosa DC. ex Mart. Posteriorly, Handroanthus gained broad acceptance as the correct genus and the combination Handroanthus vellosoi (Toledo) Mattos was proposed, bypassing the previously validly published, Tecoma speciosa. However, the latter name holds priority over Tabebuia vellosoi Toledo (≡ Handroanthus vellosoi (Toledo) Mattos), resulting in a new combination, Handroanthus speciosus (Candolle ex Martius) M.Nascim., J.F.B.Pastore & Zuntini, as presented here. This nomenclatural novelty is accompanied by a distribution map, illustration, typification of all involved names, and nomenclatural and taxonomic notes.
A catalogue of Indian Gelechiidae Stainton, 1854 (Lepidoptera: Gelechioidea)
Authors: D NANDHINI , R. SHASHANK P. , JOSHI RAHUL , REDDY KARTHIK M.
Published: March 2024

We present an annotated catalogue of the Lepidoptera family Gelechiidae of India, comprising 351 species in 80 genera, encompassing seven subfamilies. The Indian fauna represents 7.47% of global gelechiid species diversity (i.e., 4,700 species in 500 genera). Among the seven subfamilies, Dichomeridinae is the best represented (122 species in four genera), followed by Gelechiinae (76 species in 38 genera), Anacampsinae (70 species in 16 genera), Thiotrichinae (49 species in five genera), Anomologinae (26 species in nine genera), Apatetrinae (seven species in seven genera), and Physoptilinae (single species). Information on type locality, type repository, synonyms, geographical distribution, hosts, natural enemies, and references to illustrations are provided. We also reviewed the history of descriptive work on the Gelechiidae of India, and resolved ambiguities regarding the current status of some species.
Fairy moths of the genus Nemophora Hoffmannsegg, 1798 (Lepidoptera: Adelidae) from Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam
Authors: KOZLOV MIKHAIL V.
Published: March 2024

This study provides a comprehensive account of 40 species (52 valid names and one preoccupied name) of the genus Nemophora Hoffmannsegg, 1798 described or recorded from Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. A key to the species based on external characters and on male genitalia is provided; 14 new species are described: N. auricapitella Kozlov, sp. nov., N. chalcoptera Kozlov, sp. nov., N. karsholti Kozlov, sp. nov., N. kuznetzovi Kozlov, sp. nov., N. meyi Kozlov, sp. nov., N. nielseni Kozlov, sp. nov., N. nieukerkeni Kozlov, sp. nov., N. nigripunctella Kozlov, sp. nov., N. punctifasciella Kozlov, sp. nov., N. rubicunda Kozlov, sp. nov., N. szabokyi Kozlov, sp. nov., N. thailandensis Kozlov, sp. nov., N. vietnamensis Kozlov, sp. nov. and N. yeni Kozlov, sp. nov. Lectotypes are designated for four species, including one junior synonym: Nemotois diplophragma Meyrick, 1938, Nemotois sinicella Walker, 1863, Nemotois cleodoxa Meyrick, 1922 and Adela satrapodes Meyrick, 1894. Eight new synonyms for four species are proposed: Nemophora badagongshana Liao, Hirowatari & Huang in Liao, Hirowatari, Yagi, Wang, Wang & Huang, 2023, syn. nov. of Nemophora aurifera (Butler, 1881); Nemotois chrysocharis Caradja, 1938, syn. nov. of Nemophora sinicella (Walker, 1863); Nemotois diplophragma Meyrick, 1938, syn. nov. of Nemophora melichlorias (Meyrick, 1907); Nemophora basalistriata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang in Liao, Hirowatari, Yagi, Wang, Wang & Huang, 2023, syn. nov. of Nemophora melichlorias (Meyrick, 1907); Nemotois limenites Meyrick, 1914, syn. nov. of Nemophora aurifera (Butler, 1881); Nemophora quadrata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang in Liao, Hirowatari, Yagi, Wang, Wang & Huang, 2023, syn. nov. of Nemophora aurifera (Butler, 1881); Nemotois rubrofascia formosicola Matsumura, 1931, syn. nov. of Nemophora sakaii (Matsumura, 1931); Nemotois servata Meyrick in Caradja, 1925, syn. nov. of Nemophora aurifera (Butler, 1881). Four new combinations are introduced: Nemophora aglaospila (Meyrick, 1928), comb. nov.; Nemophora cleodoxa (Meyrick, 1922), comb. nov.; Nemophora melichlorias (Meyrick, 1907), comb. nov.; and Nemophora sinicella (Walker, 1863), comb. nov. Of 40 species considered, 16 were recorded in Myanmar, 21 in Thailand, 4 in Laos, 4 in Cambodia and 13 in Vietnam.
The tananá [Chlorocoelus hypericifolius (Stoll 1813): Orthoptera, Tettigonioidea, Pseudophyllinae]—re-discovered more than 150 years after the description of the male by Bates and the figuring by Darwin
Authors: HELLER KLAUS-GERHARD , HELB MATTHIAS
Published: March 2024

In his famous book, “The descent of man and selection in relation to sex,” Darwin (1871) described the male secondary sexual characters of Orthoptera in some detail. As the most prominent example, he presented a figure of a South American bush-cricket species. It had been described a few years before by Bates and was called, onomatopoetically, Chlorocoelus tanana. Surprisingly, the fascinating species has never been found since this time, although in old collections some additional specimens were located. Based on recently collected material and information on the internet, we clarify the taxonomy of the species and give details of the male stridulatory organ and its distribution. The peak frequency (2.1 kHz) of its resonant disturbance sounds indicates that also calling song may have an unusually low carrier frequency similar to other large bush-crickets with extraordinarily inflated tegmina.
Effects of Remimazolam on Cognitive Function and Nervous System in Mice
Authors: Liu Minghong , Shi Jun , Li Ju , Chen Huichun , Feng Qizhu , Li Yuanhai
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the safety and efficacy of remimazolam besylate by preparing remimazolam nanoemulsion. Field experiments were carried out in mice of different genders and ages. The treatment group was given intraperitoneal injection of Remimazolam nano-emulsion at different
doses (0, 10, 15, 15, 20 mg/kg). The propofol group received intraperitoneal injections of propofol, while the control group received intraperitoneal injections of normal saline. The open-field of mice was detected to evaluate the effect of remimazolam on exercise response and sedation recovery
time of mice. With the anesthetic effect of propofol as control, the level of P-tau phosphorylation was analyzed by westernblot, and the expression and distribution of P-tau in hippocampus was detected by immunohistochemistry. Golgi staining was used to detect the density of dendritic spines
in the hippocampus. The results revealed that remimazolam could reduce the movement distance, movement speed and increase the resting time of mice. The higher the concentration of remimazolam, the stronger the sedative effect. Additionally, the inhibitory effect of low-dose rimazolam on the
response of mice was the strongest in 15 min, and gradually recovered after 15 min, and the sedative effect had nothing to do with sex and sex of mice. The results of protein detection showed that compared with propofol group, remimazolam could reduce the expression and distribution of hippocampus
P-tau and increase the number and density of dendritic spines. Therefore, low-dose administration of remimazolam has a short-term effectiveness, lacks toxic side effects, and provides a certain level of protection to neurological and cognitive function.
Phacoemulsification Plus Intraocular Lens Implantation with Gold Nanoparticles for Complicated Cataract Secondary to Uveitis: Efficacy Analysis
Authors: Kuang Guoping , Li Ying , Li Zheng , Ou Yulun , Li Zhenghua
Published: March 2024

This study analyzes the efficacy of phacoemulsification (PE) plus intraocular lens implantation (IOLI) in patients with complicated cataracts secondary to uveitis. Nanostructured photothermal ring integrated (nano)-intraocular lens (IOLs) were developed to improve the biocompatibility
and optical properties of IOLs. However, data on the safety profile and effectiveness of IOLI for patients with complicated cataracts secondary to uveitis are scarce, and studies have questioned the safety of PE in patients undergoing cataract surgery. We used gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-modified
commercially available intraocular IOLs combined with PE technology to treat patients with complicated cataracts secondary to uveitis. First, we found that AuNP-modified IOLs were effective in reducing macrophage and bacterial adhesion and were biocompatible with the organism. Then, 64 patients
with complicated cataracts secondary to uveitis were totally selected from February 2019 to February 2022, of which 33 cases were treated with PE+IOLI (test group) and 31 with conventional small-incision extracapsular cataract extraction (SIECCE) and IOLI (control group). Intergroup comparisons
based on efficacy, safety, visual acuity (VA), aqueous humor protein levels before and after treatment, and quality of life (assessed with the Generic Quality of Life Inventory-74, GQOLI-74) revealed higher overall treatment efficacy and postoperative VA, as well as lower complication rate
and postoperative aqueous humor protein levels, in the test group than the control group. Moreover, the test group had higher GQOLI-74 scores in the dimensions of physical function, mental health, psychological health, and social competence than the control group. Thus, PE+IOLI is more suitable
for patients with complicated cataracts secondary to uveitis than conventional SIECCE+IOLI. PE+IOLI can improve treatment efficacy and safety, as well as patient VA and quality of life.
Doxorubicin Loaded Nano-Gel Preoperative Application Effect as Adjuvant Chemotherapy on Osteosarcoma
Authors: Lu Zhaoli , Zhang Peng , Li Jun , Zhou Yi , Wang Bangjun , Lu Xinyan
Published: March 2024

This paper aimed to observe the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy with adriamycin loaded nano-gel on osteosarcoma. 120 patients with osteosarcoma who visited the hospital from January 2018 to February 2022 were selected as control group and nano group by the red blue ball method. The control group received conventional doxorubicin combined with ifosfamide chemotherapy. The nano group was treated with doxorubicin loaded nano-gel as adjuvant chemotherapy before surgery. Both groups received limb salvage surgery. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were compared between two groups before, after, and 1 day after chemotherapy. Follow up records were kept for 12 months to obtain adverse reactions to chemotherapy, postoperative clinical efficacy, and progression free survival time (PFS). No significant difference existed in ALP, LDH, VEGF, and bFGF levels between two groups of patients before chemotherapy (P> 0.05). For the overall comparison, inter group, time, and interaction effects had statistical significance (P< 0.05). For the comparison of two groups, the average ALP, LDH, VEGF, and bFGF in the nano group were lower after chemotherapy. The incidence of grade III–IV adverse reactions in the nano group was 10% lower than the controlling group. The CR+PR rate in the nano group was higher. The preoperative application of adriamycin loaded nano-gel as adjuvant chemotherapy can make the patients’ prognosis with osteosarcoma improved. It can enhance the chemotherapy effect, control the degree of adverse reactions of chemotherapy, and improve the clinical efficiency, thus extending the progression free survival period of patients with osteosarcoma.
Ferric Oxide Nanoparticles Enhance Cytotoxicity and Reduce the Occurrence and Development of Cervical Cancer Metastases
Authors: Cheng Qiujin , Song Yanhua , Zheng Fu
Published: March 2024

Fe3O4 nanoparticles can be used in diagnostic imaging and therapeutic applications. However, poor solubility limits its use in tumors. In this study, we used ferric oxide and nanoparticles to covalently bind ferric oxide nanoparticles as a strategy for treatment
of cervical cancer metastases. We aimed to evaluate their biological effects on cervical cancer metastases in vivo. Confocal microscopy was used to detect transfection efficiency, ferric oxide or ferric oxide nanoparticles were used to intervene cervical cancer cell lines, and flow
cytometry explored cell apoptosis. The mouse model of cervical cancer metastasis was further treated with ferric oxide or ferric tetroxide nanoparticles through intraperitoneal injection. The tumor volume was counted and size was measured. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by
IHC and Western-blot was used to detect protein expression. Nanoparticles significantly enhanced the cellular uptake of Fe3O4, which inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis. In the in vivo transplanted tumor model, the same was observed in mice.
In the mice model, ferric oxide nanoparticles significantly inhibited the growth of tumors, slowed down tumor growth rate, and accelerated apoptosis. Our research results showed that nanoparticles contributed to the uptake of oxidized particles, and Fe3O4 nanoparticles
regulated studied tumors by enhancing cytotoxicity, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation and promoting cell apoptosis, achieving Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The particles significantly inhibited tumor growth, slowed down multiplication rate, and accelerated apoptosis, suggesting
that Fe3O4 nanoparticles have a significant inhibitory effect on cervical cancer transplanted tumors.
Efficient Data-Driven Gap Filling of Satellite Image Time Series Using Deep Neural Networks with Partial Convolutions
Authors: Appel Marius
Published: March 2024

The abundance of gaps in satellite image time series often complicates the application of deep learning models such as convolutional neural networks for spatiotemporal modeling. Based on previous work in computer vision on image inpainting, this paper shows how three-dimensional spatiotemporal partial convolutions can be used as layers in neural networks to fill gaps in satellite image time series. To evaluate the approach, we apply a U-Net-like model on incomplete image time series of quasi-global carbon monoxide observations from the Sentinel-5 Precursor (Sentinel-5P) satellite. Prediction errors were comparable to two considered statistical approaches while computation times for predictions were up to three orders of magnitude faster, making the approach applicable to process large amounts of satellite data. Partial convolutions can be added as layers to other types of neural networks, making it relatively easy to integrate with existing deep learning models. However, the approach does not provide prediction uncertainties and further research is needed to understand and improve model transferability. The implementation of spatiotemporal partial convolutions and the U-Net-like model is available as open-source software.

Significance Statement

Gaps in satellite-based measurements of atmospheric variables can make the application of complex analysis methods such as deep learning approaches difficult. The purpose of this study is to present and evaluate a purely data-driven method to fill incomplete satellite image time series. The application on atmospheric carbon monoxide data suggests that the method can achieve prediction errors comparable to other approaches with much lower computation times. Results highlight that the method is promising for larger datasets but also that care must be taken to avoid extrapolation. Future studies may integrate the approach into more complex deep learning models for understanding spatiotemporal dynamics from incomplete data.
D’Annunzio, Libreria Editrice Lombarda and Il Rinascimento (1905–1906)
Authors: Nemegeer Guylian
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the periodical Il Rinascimento, published in 17 issues between 15 November 1905 and 20 July 1906, within its publishing and historical context. Il Rinascimento served as the periodical of the short-lived publishing house, Libreria Editrice Lombarda, owned by Tom Antongini and Arnaldo De Mohr, which is a crucial element in understanding its agenda. In the first part, I discuss the foundation and subsequent decline of Libreria Editrice Lombarda, focusing specifically on D’Annunzio's involvement. The birth of the publishing house was closely linked to Antongini's friendship with D’Annunzio and the author's dissatisfaction with his collaboration with Fratelli Treves. The subsequent sections focus on Il Rinascimento's discourse on ‘Renaissance’. This discourse was deeply rooted in the post-Risorgimento crisis of values and tried to go beyond both art for art's sake and naturalism in favor of a new nationalist engagement of literature and the arts. The embodiment of this nationalism was the periodical's favorite author, Gabriele D’Annunzio.
Turkish-American Relations in the Context of Multilateral Competition in the Caspian Region
Authors: Akimova Zhaksygul , Kydyrov Zhenis , Kilybayeva Panu , Ospanova Aigerim
Published: March 2024

This article examines the prospects for increased Turkish-American relations in the Caspian region, namely, joint areas of activity for the development and consolidation of cooperation between both states. Utilizing a historical-comparative method, we comprehensively study Turkish-American relations in this region from a historical viewpoint and predict the further development of this cooperation in the future. The key characteristics and features of Turkish-American relations in the Caspian region from 1991 to 2022 are identified, as are the causes of crises in relations between the two countries against the background of a change in US policy. Finally, we emphasize the importance of further strengthening strategic cooperation between Turkey and the US in the Caspian region.
The Story of Compassion: From Ancient Texts to Modern Practice
Authors: Maurya Rakesh K. , DeDiego Amanda C.
Published: March 2024

There is a lack of consensus on the definition of compassion among mental health professionals. In addition, mental health professionals also differ in how compassion is connected to related constructs including pity, sympathy, and empathy. This article explores the evolution of compassion from ancient times to contemporary conceptualization in western mental health treatment. Application of compassion in therapeutic practice, mindfulness, and wellness is discussed.
Drug-Death Related Bereavement and Social Support
Authors: Reime Monika Alvestad , Connor Maja O’ , Hystad Sigurd William , Dyregrov Kari
Published: March 2024

The loss of a close one to drug-related death (DRD) has been characterized as a form of stigmatized bereavement, and research has shown that there is a high risk of bereavement complications. Social support can be a buffer against bereavement complications, but because of stigma, DRD bereaved persons access to social support can be challenged. Based on data from a Norwegian sample of DRD bereaved persons ( N = 252) the present study examines (1) bereaved persons’ perceived access to different aspects of social support, and (2) the association between bereaved persons’ experiences of societal stigma, own withdrawal, self-blame, and their perceptions of social support. Results show (1) that bereaved persons’ access to contact with persons in the same situation is particularly low compared to other support aspects, and (2) that perceived stigma (4%) and own withdrawal (5%) predict variations in drug-related death bereaved persons’ perception of social support.
The negative impacts of the restructuring of the abattoir industry in Great Britain on small abattoirs
Authors: Franks Jeremy R
Published: March 2024

This study examines the reasons why between 1979 and 2020 the number of abattoirs licenced to slaughter red blood livestock species in Great Britain fell from 1146 to 200, average throughput per abattoir increased, larger abattoirs specialised in the species slaughtered, and family owned abattoirs have been replaced by international companies owning multiple slaughterhouses and food processing factories. The study combines abattoir sector survey data with findings from a national survey of small abattoirs. Larger abattoirs have exploited economies of size and location to achieve the throughput necessary to supply multiple retailers and/or wholesale markets. Smaller abattoirs have exploited economies of scope to develop the bespoke butchering services needed to supply private kill customers. The high rate of closure of smaller abattoirs suggests the future of small-scale, locally based supply chains in which private kill services supply is threatened. The recently introduced Small Abattoir Fund offers grants towards the purchase of new equipment which will offer some relief. But smaller abattoirs must support their private kill customers by organising collection points for onward transport of livestock to the abattoir and local redistribution centres for meat and carcases.
SynBPS: a parametric simulation framework for the generation of event-log data
Authors: Riess Mike
Published: March 2024

In the pursuit of ecological validity, current business process simulation methods are calibrated to data from existing processes. This is important for realistic what-if analysis in the context of these processes. However, this is not always the “right tool for the job.” To test hypotheses in the area of predictive process monitoring, it can be more helpful to simulate event-log data from a theoretical process, where all aspects can be manipulated. One example is when assessing the influence of process complexity or variability on the performance of a new prediction method. In this case, the ability to include control variables and systematically change process characteristics is a key to fully understanding their influence. Calibrating a simulation model from observed data alone can in these cases be limiting. This paper proposes a simulation framework, Synthetic Business Process Simulation (SynBPS), a Python library for the generation of event-log data from synthetic processes. Aspects such as process complexity, stability, trace distribution, duration distribution, and case arrivals can be fully controlled by the user. The overall architecture is described in detail, and a demonstration of the framework is presented.
Thermal behavior of flexible and breathable sandwich fibrous polyethylene glycol (PEG) encapsulations
Authors: Yang Kai , Zhang Xiuling , Venkataraman Mohanapriya , Chen Kun , Wang Yuanfeng , Wiener Jakub , Zhu Guocheng , Yao Juming , Militky Jiri
Published: March 2024

Textiles incorporating phase change material have attracted increasing attention due to their temperature regulating function. Although a great progress has been made in the development of phase change material textiles, it has been found that the loading amount of phase change materials is limited by other final properties. Recently, we have proposed a sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulation with a relatively high phase change material loading amount, which is a multi-layer fabric structure containing phase change material. However, the breathability of sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulation should be improved because there is no path for air to penetrate through. In this work, the sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulation structure with polyethylene glycol as phase change material is modified by introducing different air pockets in the thermal function layer ranging from 19% to 64%. The leakage phenomenon, phase transition behavior, thermal energy storage, breathability, T-history and practicality of the breathable sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulations are investigated. As a result, the maximum polyethylene glycol loading amount of the phase change materials pocket is 83 wt%, and there is no leakage of polyethylene glycol during working time. The overall enthalpy value of the breathable sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulation ranges from 27 J/g to 48 J/g. The optimal air permeability and water vapor resistance of the breathable sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulation is 9 mm/s under 100 Pa and 34.5 m2 Pa W−1. Furthermore, the heterogeneous heat transfer through the breathable sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulation is found due to the complicated thermal resistances of the hybrid thermal functional layer. In addition, for breathable sandwich fibrous phase change material encapsulation, the flexibility, hydrophobicity, self-cleaning property, abrasion resistance, and stability after water immersion are found. We believe the research has a great potential in various applications related to phase change material.
Mind the Gap: Facebook’s measures against information disorder do not go far enough
Authors: de-Lima-Santos Mathias-Felipe , Ceron Wilson
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, a revolutionary transformation has substantially altered the way people access information. Online social media platforms have become a significant facet of our daily lives. The intersection of political discourse with the proliferation of what is commonly termed as “fake news” on these platforms has given rise to an environment that does not necessarily foster independent and critical thinking, thereby posing substantial risks to individuals, industries, and governments. While Facebook has implemented novel strategies to counteract this challenge, their efficacy remains questionable. Drawing from an analysis of fact-checking activities conducted during two Brazilian elections, this study aims to illuminate the key areas of focus within corrective information and assess its impact on Facebook. Our examination also highlights our critique of the lack of standardized measures, utilizing Meta’s tool (CrowdTangle) for this qualitative study. Ultimately, our study concludes by offering insights into potential policy alternatives that could be adopted to address this phenomenon.
Testing and refining an approach to identifying health and social care needs in probation
Authors: Sirdifield Coral , Parkhouse Thomas , Brooker Charlie , Law Graham
Published: March 2024

We piloted an approach to identifying the health and social care needs of people on probation using a survey consisting of validated screening tools and key additional questions. We share findings from our analysis of the sample data, showing that there is a high complexity of needs in this population, with 65.4% of participants reporting at least one unmet need. We also explore the acceptability of this approach to identifying needs being used in routine probation practice and make recommendations about how identification and recording of needs could be approached and further researched in the future.
Meta-analysis of central and peripheral cannulation for type A aortic dissection
Authors: Naito Noritsugu , Takagi Hisato
Published: March 2024

Background

Acute type A aortic dissection necessitates rapid and effective arterial cannulation techniques for optimal outcomes. This meta-analysis compares the safety and effectiveness of direct aortic cannulation (AoC) with peripheral cannulation (PC) via the femoral or axillary arteries in aortic surgery for acute type A aortic dissection.

Methods

A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines identified 10 retrospective studies encompassing 2518 patients (961 AoC, 1557 PC). Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to analyze perioperative characteristics, short-term mortality rates, and postoperative complications including stroke and acute kidney injury.

Results

Short-term mortality did not significantly differ between AoC and PC (OR [95% CI] = 0.78 [0.61-1.01], p = .06). Likewise, postoperative stroke (OR [95% CI] = 0.86 [0.63-1.17], p = .33) nor acute kidney injury (OR [95% CI] = 1.11 [0.89-1.37], p = .35) showed no significant differences. AoC exhibited shorter operation time whereas there were no significant differences in aortic cross clamp time and cardiopulmonary bypass time between both groups. Our meta-regression analysis, considering the distal extent of aortic replacement, indicated that variations in aortic replacement rates did not significantly impact the observed outcomes.

Conclusion

AoC is a viable alternative to PC for acute type A aortic dissection. While both approaches offer comparable outcomes, AoC’s advantage in shorter operation time warrants thoughtful consideration in clinical practice.
Instructional Decision-Making of Professionals Who Support Children Who Use AAC
Authors: Snodgrass Melinda R. , Douglas Sarah N. , Walker Virginia L. , Chung Yun-Ching
Published: March 2024

Despite advances in the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), outcomes among children who require AAC remain discouraging. Practitioners may benefit from guidelines to aid decision-making in relation to supporting pre-linguistic communicators. We conducted an open-ended questionnaire of 30 AAC professionals from six countries—Australia, Denmark, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States—to determine if consensus existed regarding the assessment information needed, the communication skills to teach, and the instructional strategies to employ to support AAC learning for pre-linguistic communicators. We analyzed the responses using qualitative content analysis in four iterative phases. We provide five statements that reflect areas of consensus and divergence among the participating AAC professionals. These findings provide important insights related to assessment, communicative competence, instructional strategies, decision-making, and communication partner instruction. Findings of this preliminary exploration indicate the need for ongoing and targeted research related to AAC decision-making guidance that attends to context (e.g., languages spoken, service structures) and pre- and in-service training in AAC decision-making.
Delayed macular hole secondary to Terson syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Yi , Lei Chunyan , Huang Xi , Zhang Meixia
Published: March 2024

Terson syndrome refers to intraocular haemorrhage that occurs due to subarachnoid bleeding associated with an acute increase in intracranial pressure. No previous study has reported a delayed macular hole (MH) secondary to Terson syndrome. A 17-year-old boy visited our department and presented with vitreous bleeding and a history of subarachnoid haemorrhage. Sub-internal limiting membrane (ILM) haemorrhage with ILM detachment and intraretinal haemorrhage were detected during pars plana vitrectomy. Additionally, a delayed MH was detected 1 week after the surgery. There was no sign of MH closure during a 2-month follow-up. Subsequently, an MH massage was performed to close the MH. Our findings suggest that a delayed MH can occur secondary to Terson syndrome. Elevated hydrodynamic pressure and hydrostatic pressure, which are caused by sub-ILM and intraretinal haemorrhages of the fovea, contribute to the formation of an MH. Additionally, ILM peeling may cause damage to the macula and facilitate the formation of MHs. Although the MH may close by itself, early surgical intervention is recommended when there is no sign that the MH will close spontaneously because a prolonged MH can lead to retinal damage.
Medial Collateral Ligament Reconstruction With Autograft Versus Allograft: A Systematic Review
Authors: Blackwood Nigel O. , Blitz Jack A. , Vopat Bryan , Ierulli Victoria K. , Mulcahey Mary K.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction (MCLR) is performed after failed nonoperative treatment or high-grade MCL injury with associated valgus instability.

Purpose:

To evaluate clinical outcomes after MCLR with autograft versus allograft.

Study Design:

Systematic review, Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The authors conducted a search of the PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases to identify studies comparing outcomes of MCLR with autograft versus allograft. Studies were included if they evaluated clinical outcomes after MCLR using autograft and/or allograft. Any study that included concomitant knee ligament injury other than the anterior cruciate ligament injury was excluded. A quality assessment was performed using the modified Coleman Methodology Score.

Results:

The initial search identified 746 studies, 17 of which met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. The studies included 307 patients: 151 (49.2%) patients received autografts, and 156 (50.8%) received allografts. The most used autograft was the semitendinosus tendon (136 grafts; 90.1% of specified allografts), and the only allograft used was the Achilles tendon (110 grafts; 100% of specified autografts). The mean follow-up of the studies was 25.6 months. Postoperative pain (Lysholm scores) ranged from 82.9 to 94.8 in patients receiving autografts and 87.5 to 93 in patients receiving allografts. Postoperative range of motion was full in 8 of 15 (53.3%) patients receiving autografts compared with 82 of 93 (88.2%) patients receiving allografts. Five of the 151 (3.3%) patients who had MCLR with autografts had complications such as infection, instability, and prominent screws. Two of the 156 (1.3%) MCLRs with allografts developed complications of prominent screws and nonhealing incisions.

Conclusion:

MCLR with either autografts or allografts leads to improved patient-reported, radiographic, and clinical outcomes. Patient-reported postoperative pain was similar in patients receiving either graft type. Other outcomes were difficult to compare between graft types because of nonstandardized reporting and a lack of pre- and postoperative measurements. Therefore, there is no evidence of significantly improved outcomes in the use of either autograft or allograft with MCLR.
Research on thermal deformation and clearances of oil-free twin screw compressor under cryogenic conditions
Authors: Wu Huagen , Liang Mengtao , Chen Siwei , Wu Guanghua , Huang Hongye , Xu Shuwu , Xing Ziwen
Published: March 2024

The oil-free twin screw compressors have obtained increasing attention in the field of boil off gas (BOG) recovery since they effectively reduce the power consumption and have higher reliability when recovering and boosting BOG. However, the thermal deformation of compressor under cryogenic operating conditions will lead to the change of clearance. The unidirectional thermal-fluid-solid coupling method is proposed in this paper to solve the problem and analyze the thermal deformation of compressor and the changes of each clearance caused by the deformation at different meshing angles in a meshing cycle. It is shown in the results that the deformation of twin screw compressor at low temperatures is a kind of cold shrinkage deformation. The combined effect of the deformation of various components has a significant influence on each clearance. Furthermore, it is reasonable to set the tooth tip clearance of the male rotor, suction end clearance and meshing gap as 0.3 mm, 1 mm and 0.3 mm respectively, which do not cause dangerous working conditions. Inappropriate clearance values lead to friction between parts in the local area. The simulated result of the dangerous friction area in twin screw compressor shows good agreement with the friction area in the compressor test. According to the simulation and test results, the tooth tip clearance of the female rotor is modified to 0.35 mm, and the discharge end clearance is adjusted to 0.1 mm. The results show that the modified compressor can working reliably. This study provides guidance for the design and processing of oil-free twin screw compressors employed in the situation of BOG recovery.
The chronopolitics of the ‘Left Behind’: Presentism, populism, and Global Britain
Authors: Forkert Kirsten , Nahaboo Zaki
Published: March 2024

This article examines the “Left Behind” as a temporal construct and its political uses. In the UK, the “Left Behind” is predominantly discussed as a group of people sharing a similar geographical locale, White identity, and deprivation. Political parties and commentators have been integral to constructing this White class as a deserving poor and voting bloc, who have not reaped the benefits of economic development. Instead of assessing the empirical validity of the “Left Behind” as a socio-economic category, this article explores how the politics associated with this construct is orchestrated by varied temporal frames. The first section draws upon François Hartog's notion of presentism and Hakki Taş's theorisation of populist temporal narratives to explore how the “Left Behind” is shaped as an object of moral and economic debt, with their prospects threatened by immigrants. The second section explores how Global Britain narratives shape the “Left Behind” as subjects of majority histories. In doing so, it also demonstrates how these imagined figures are cast as subjects who lag behind the demands of late capitalism. The article concludes by reaffirming how presentism is central to the making of the “Left Behind” as a governmental problematic.