bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foldy-Wouthuysen transformation and multiwave states of a graphene electron in external fields and free (2+1)-space
Authors: Silenko Alexander J
Published: December 2023

The relativistic Foldy-Wouthuysen transformation is used for an advanced description of planar graphene electrons in external fields and free (2+1)-space. It is shown that the initial Dirac equation should by based on the usual (4 × 4) Dirac matrices but not on the reduction of matrix dimensions and the use of (2 × 2) Pauli matrices. Nevertheless, the both approaches agree with the experimental data on graphene electrons in a uniform magnetic field. The pseudospin of graphene electrons is not the one-value spin and takes the values ±1/2. The exact Foldy-Wouthuysen Hamiltonian of a graphene electron in uniform and nonuniform magnetic fields is derived. The exact energy spectrum agreeing with the experiment and exact Foldy-Wouthuysen wave eigenfunctions are obtained. These eigenfunctions describe multiwave (structured) states in the (2+1)-space. It is proven that the Hermite-Gauss beams exist even in the free space. In the multiwave Hermite-Gauss states, graphene electrons acquire nonzero effective masses dependent on a quantum number and move with group velocities which are less than the Fermi velocity. Graphene electrons in a static electric field also can exist in the multiwave Hermite-Gauss states defining non-spreading coherent beams. These beams can be accelerated and decelerated.
The effect of the modelling approaches in the assessment of comfort and curve negotiation performance of a small-scale maglev vehicle
Authors: Yıldız Ali Suat
Published: December 2023

In this article, a new co-simulation method was presented for high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnetic levitation (Maglev) systems by utilizing H-formulation that is implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics®. A comparative study was conducted to evaluate the curve negotiation performance, which is closely related to its stability, of the HTS maglev vehicle running on a multi-surface permanent magnet guideway (PMG). Also, Sperling’s ride index method was used to evaluate ride comfort. Different from the existing related models of this subject, the dynamics of free-falling were incorporated into the modelling approach to simulate the actual running conditions of the vehicle. In addition, because of considering the non-stationary dynamics of the induced supercurrent in the HTS domain, the proposed approach and the selected route design provide simulation results that are close to the actual application of the HTS maglev vehicle. The results show that the performance indicators of the co-simulation greatly deviate from those of the existing curve-fitting-based models with increasing velocity.
Shadow and weak gravitational lensing for Ellis-Bronnikov wormhole*
Authors: Alloqulov Mirzabek , Atamurotov Farruh , Abdujabbarov Ahmadjon , Ahmedov Bobomurat , Khamidov Vokhid
Published: December 2023

In this study, we investigated the gravitational weak lensing and shadow of the Ellis-Bronnikov wormhole. First, we studied the photon motion in a plasma medium and a wormhole shadow. It was shown that the radius of the photon sphere of the Ellis-Bronnikov wormhole and the size of the wormhole shadow become larger under the influence of the parameter a. The upper limit of the parameter a in the Ellis-Bronnikov wormhole spacetime was obtained. Second, we investigated the weak gravitational lensing for the Ellis-Bronnikov wormhole and calculated the deflection angle for uniform and non uniform plasma cases. The value of the deflection angle for uniform plasma increased with the increase in plasma parameter value, and vice versa for non uniform plasma. We found that, under the influence of the parameter a, the values of the deflection angles for two cases decreased. Finally, we investigated the magnification of image brightness using the deflection angle of the light rays around the wormhole in the Ellis-Bronnikov theory.
Settlement of Environmental Crime Through Restorative Justice
Authors: Himawan Ludy , Lestari Endang Sri
Published: December 2023

Enforcement of environmental law does not have to be by enforcing criminal law which aims to punish but must be directed at restoring environmental sustainability. Restorative justice as a part of the renewal of criminal law enforcement. The research method used is normative juridical, with statutory and conceptual approach. As a breakthrough, the settlement of environmental crimes can be resolved through restorative justice. Mechanisms that can be carried out such as mediation and dialogue between parties are more effective so that environmental restoration is achieved and compensation for damages due to criminal acts is achieved. The inability of restorative justice to bind the parties involved, then prevention can be taken for corporate actors to be able to commit to implementing agreements such as the results of mediation, technical “naming and shaming” and not giving new business licenses issued by formal institutions.
The Challenge of Blue Economy in ASEAN 2023: Climate Change and Regional Security.
Authors: Hananto Pulung Widhi Hari , Trihastuti Nanik , Prananda Rahandy Rizky , Pratama Aditya Agung , Rahayu Haningrum Eka Putri
Published: December 2023

As an emerging concept, blue economy shows that the ocean and seas are important drivers of economic growth and innovation, while taking into account the need to guarantee ocean sustainability and rules-based ocean governance. This research was conducted to see how State members of the ASEAN community are preparing to implement blue economy amid climate change and regional security threat. Using normative approach, this research lists the policy issue of States regarding the mitigation and prevention of climate change and focusing on the key sectors of blue economy. State members also need to overcome the threat on regional security State whether by legal or cooperative measures. In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of carefully weighing the effects of climate change and regional security concerns in order to ensure a sustainable and resilient future for the region.
Green Economy For Green Victimology: Preventing Environmental Crime And Protecting Victims Through Sustainable Economic Policies
Authors: Fernando Zico Junius , Anditya Ariesta Wibisono , Candra Septa
Published: December 2023

Green Economy and Green Victimology are two interrelated concepts in the context of environmental protection and social justice. This study explores how applying Green Economy principles can help prevent environmental crimes and protect victims through sustainable economic policies. The methods used are literature analysis, case studies, and interviews with experts in the fields of Green Economy and Green Victimology. The research results show that applying Green Economy principles, such as the efficient use of resources, renewable energy, environmentally friendly policies, and green investment, can reduce the number of environmental crimes and their impact on humans and ecosystems. Also, Green economy policies can create incentives for companies to adopt environmentally friendly business practices, thereby reducing the risk of environmental crimes and protecting the victims who may be affected.
Mechanical Characterization of Sustainable Concrete Incorporating Bentonite Powder and Sisal Fibre
Authors: Sree Kumar K. , Alisha Shaik Subhan , Vijay Kunamineni , Sarma V V S
Published: December 2023

The production of cement releases huge amount of greenhouse emissions. Various alternative materials for cement replacement are suggested by the researchers. However, these materials are not available in all places. Hence, the exploration of substitute materials for cement remains a contemporary focal point in research. In this work, an endeavor has been taken to know the effect of bentonite as a substitute for cement on the behavior of concrete. Further, sisal fibers are added in this concrete to enhance the overall concrete characteristics. The concrete of the M30 grade is employed and the cement has been replaced with bentonite by weight of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. The workability, strength, and durability for acid curing were assessed and compared to regular concrete. There is a 10.81%, 14.17%, and 12.02% enhancement in the compressive strength by the inclusion of 30% of bentonite as a replacement for cement. The inclusion of 30% bentonite as a replacement for cement exhibits optimum enhancement in strength and durability. Further, the inclusion of sisal fibers and bentonite enhances the tensile strength of the concrete. The test results suggest that the inclusion of bentonite as a substitute for cement increases the concrete characteristics.
Experimental Investigation on Performance of Ferrock Concrete
Authors: Madala Vasavi , Sujatha Takkellapati.
Published: December 2023

Today, the construction of buildings and infrastructure has increased as a part of development, resulting in a significant demand for concrete and cement. The large-scale production of cement and extraction of river sand can have negative impacts on environment and depletion of natural resources. Due to the production of 1 ton of cement produces 0.9 ton of CO2 emissions. To mitigate this pollution a green substance called as FERROCK (Iron dust 60%, Flyash20%, Metakaolin 10%, Lime powder 8%, Oxalic acid 2%) is used as a partial replacement of cement with selected ratio (10%, 20%, and 30%) by weight of cement. This study includes the complete replacement of river sand with M sand (85%) and glass powder (15%) to reduce the usage of natural sand (river sand) for the selected grades of concrete M40, M60 by performing the mechanical and durability test on the designed concrete grades with selected ferrock ratios, the mechanical and durability properties were enhanced with 20% ferrock replacement by weight of cement in concrete.
Durability Performance of Ferro Geo Polymer Concrete
Authors: Lalitha G , Sai Kishore K
Published: December 2023

The expansion of the building sector is ultimately driving up the manufacturing of Portland cement, which rises pollution. Consequence of this is global warming. Sustainable alternatives are being used in concrete on a large scale to minimise the impact of greenhouse gases. Concrete made of geo-polymers is one of such alternative. Since Geo Polymer Concrete (GPC) is inherently known for its resistance to aggressive environment, to add to its characteristics, steel wire mesh was incorporated into geo polymer concrete which can largely be termed as “Ferro Geo Polymer Concrete” (FGPC). In the current study, durability properties of FGPC such as resistance to acid attack, Half-Cell Potential (HCP) and resistance to abrasion have been studied. Welded square wire mesh has been used in the specimens with different number of layers. FGPC specimens were compared to GPC specimens of same grade without mesh. Double layered FGPC specimens have shown better resilience to acid attack having weight loss and strength loss of 0.44% and 17.24% when immersed in H2SO4 and 0.45% and 8.4% when immersed in HCL correspondingly. Double layered FGPC has better resistance towards abrasion of concrete with PWL of 2.43% and ADA of 1.07 mm.
A way to sustainable development of a slum rehabilitation residential project through building information model
Authors: Jangam Prajakta , Sakhare Vishakha
Published: December 2023

Sustainable development in the construction industry majorly relies on energy consumption and CO2 emissions. It has been well proven that building contribute to majority of energy consumption. Also, orienting the building as per sun path, providing insulation to external elements of the building helps in reducing the energy consumption of a building. But desired orientation and providing additional insulation may not be always possible especially to a slum rehabilitation project. Thus, choosing appropriate materials especially external wall material which is crucial for heat gain inside the building is important. Considering a case of Slum Rehabilitation residential project situated in Pune city, G+2 model is created using Building Information modelling tools (Revit, Autodesk Insight) with actual material usage on the existing project based on survey. This study focuses on reducing the energy consumption by choosing appropriate wall material considering cost, CO2 emission, and energy analysis. The matrix providing energy consumption, cost and CO2 emission for the considered wall alternatives will help to choose optimum option for wall having benefits to a project like lesser energy consumption, cost and lower CO2emissions. The outcome will help the developers and slum rehabilitation authority to reduce the energy usage and thus CO2 emissions and cost to deliver energy flexible and low carbon building at optimum cost.
Utilization of Treated Wastewater in Concrete
Authors: Sai Krishna R.V.M. , Khan Haroon Ali , Vamsi R. , Khaja Sameer SK.
Published: December 2023

Water produced by a community is referred to as domestic wastewater. Consequently, it is made up of waste products from human bodies and water used for cleansing. The smell of fresh wastewater is earthy but not unpleasant. It is a grayish, turbid liquid. It also comprises pollutants in real solution together with big floating and suspended particles, smaller suspended solids (such partly digested vegetable peel, paper, and feces), and extremely small materials in colloidal suspension. Because it includes numerous disease-causing (or “pathogenic”) organisms, it is offensive in appearance and dangerous in composition. In a sewage treatment facility, the wastewater that is produced will be cleaned up and then dumped into rivers or fields, as appropriate. In this research, an effort has been made to determine the feasibility of reusing domestic wastewater after treatment of Vijayawada city in the casting of concrete. The performance of domestic wastewater performance has been carried out through various tests, such as compressive strength, split tensile strength, and rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT).
A case study on performance of structures during Turkey-Syria multiple earthquakes occurred on February 6, 2023
Authors: Thippa Pavan Kumar , Tripathi R. K. , Bhat Govardhan
Published: December 2023

Buildings are an important components of both urban and rural infrastructure, and it is crucial that they perform well during a seismic event. The earthquakes occurred on February 6, 2023 in Kahramanmaras, Turkey, which also had an impact on eleven other locations surrounding it. Turkey has suffered significantly from fatalities as well as damage to structures and other facilities. The area was severely damaged by two earthquakes, Mw7.7 and Mw7.6, which occurred within a time window of roughly 9 hours on February 6, 2023 in Turkey. Seismic regulations only take into account the design of structures during a single earthquake; multiple earthquake occurrences are not taken into account. The performance of reinforced concrete buildings, masonry buildings, and precast buildings damaged during seismic sequences are discussed in this case study. From this study it is observed that, buildings that are subject to multiple earthquakes often collapse because of damage by previous earthquake, weak foundations, detailing errors at site, the use of poor materials, and inadequate craftsmanship. Multiple earthquakes should be considered during the analysis and design phase of structures, and seismic code regulations should be adjusted to allow for multiple earthquakes.
Seismic studies on energy dissipation device performance for irregular steel structure in different soil conditions using ETABS
Authors: Prashanth Kumar P. , Jyothirmai A.
Published: December 2023

Earthquakes are sudden loads that occur and cause low to severe damage to the structure. Based on the intensity of an earthquake, the zones are divided into II, III, IV and V as per IS code 1893:2016(Part-1). Regular, Stiffness Irregular and Mass Irregular G+7 steel building is designed for four zones in ETABS software. Linear Static and Linear Dynamic analyses are performed on all zones for different conditions of soils. In this work, a steel G+7 storeyed structure is developed in ETABS and subjected to seismic loading. For Energy dissipation, the dampers are installed in the building and the analysis process is done. In this research, seismic study is carried out on various models using energy dissipation devices such as fluid viscous damper. The different irregularities in a building in four zones are analyzed with and without using dampers. The study is concluded by comparing displacement and storey shear values for different models.
Corrosion Studies on Ternary Blended High Performance Self-Compacting Concretes Containing Fly Ash and Graphene Oxide
Authors: Pavankalyan P , Durga Prasad R , Soujanya J
Published: December 2023

Effective utilization of industrial byproducts as mineral admixtures and filler materials in cement concrete has been a practice to develop sustainable construction materials. The use of mineral admixtures like fly ash, silica fume, ground granulated blast furnace slag etc. as a partial replacement of cements have proved to improve the performance characteristics of concrete through reduced porosity and improved mechanical characteristics through pozzolanic effect and filler effect. Moreover, extensive research in the recent period has been mainly focused to study the effect of nano-additions in concrete. The present work was focused to assess the performance of ternary blended high performance self-compacting concretes with varied quantities of graphene oxide additions. Control concrete of M60 grade was designed in correspondence to IS-10262:2019 containing fly ash, and three other concretes mixes were formulated with 0.03%, 0.06% and 0.09% addition of Graphene Oxide (By weight of total cementitious material). The specimens were cast and tested at different ages to determine rheological, mechanical and durability characteristics by evaluating slump flow, Compressive Strength, Split Tensile Strength, Absorption- Desorption characteristics, Rapid Chloride Penetration Test values and resistance to accelerated corrosion cracking. Moreover, the specimens were assessed for corrosion resistance by conducting a cyclic wet – dry test, where parameters like UPV & depth of chloride penetration in concrete were measured. Results depict the fact that addition of Graphene Oxide improves the durability characteristics to a great extent. The optimum results for most of parameters were obtained at 0.06% of Graphene Oxide addition in comparison to remaining mix proportions.
An Application of Geopolymer stabilized expansive soil to reduce the rainfall-based erosion in slopes
Authors: Dudekula Janaki Ramudu , Chigurupati Sudharani
Published: December 2023

Soil stabilization is critical in civil infrastructure, acting as a cornerstone for sustainable and resilient building practices. It enables the construction of strong foundations capable of withstanding enormous loads and adverse conditions, assuring the safety and lifespan of structures such as buildings and roads. The utilization of industrial by products for enhancing the qualities of locally expanding soils has become increasingly popular, mostly due to its low carbon emissions and cost-effectiveness. The present investigation focused on the effect of the addition of Ground Granulated Blast furnace Slag (GGBS) and Geopolymer solution to expansive soil in order to reduce the erosion of slopes. Unconfined compressive strength tests were performed and found that 10% GGBS is the optimum amount for stabilization. SEM studies were conducted to know the microstructure before and after stabilization. The study determined that the rate of rainfall erosion on the stabilized slope was lower compared to the untreated soil, and the load-carrying capacity of the stabilized slope was much greater.
Geospatial delineation of flood susceptible zones using analytical hierarchy process
Authors: Singh Ravindra Kumar , Singha Soumya Sucharita , Singha Sudhakar , Pasupuleti Srinivas , Kumar Villuri Vasanta Govind
Published: December 2023

Demarcation of flood-prone areas based on risk level plays a key role in flood management systems. Geospatial approach has gained much significance among the researcher working in flood risk management. This work incorporated an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information system (GIS) to delineate the flood susceptible zones of the lower Damodar River basin. Various influencing factors were initially assigned with weights with respect to their relative importance towards flood susceptibility and integrated into GIS platform by weighted overlay approach. Based on the current study area, the flood zone map was sub-classified into four zones, namely critical, high and low, and safe zone, respectively. Moreover, sensitivity analysis was also performed to evaluate the most significant factors in flood susceptibility using the exclusion of factors from the estimation of flood zone index. Sensitivity analysis showed that River distance and elevation are the most sensitive factors for evaluating flood zonation.
The sugar kelp Saccharina latissima I: recent advances in a changing climate
Authors: Diehl Nora , Li Huiru , Scheschonk Lydia , Burgunter-Delamare Bertille , Niedzwiedz Sarina , Forbord Silje , Sæther Maren , Bischof Kai , Monteiro Catia
Published: December 2023

Background

The sugar kelp Saccharina latissima is a Laminariales species widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere. Its physiology and ecology have been studied since the 1960s, given its ecological relevance on western temperate coasts. However, research interest has been rising recently, driven mainly by reports of negative impacts of anthropogenically induced environmental change and by the increased commercial interest in cultivating the species, with several industrial applications for the resulting biomass.

Scope

We used a variety of sources published between 2009 to May 2023 (but including some earlier literature where required), to provide a comprehensive review of the ecology, physiology, biochemical and molecular biology of S. latissima. In so doing we aimed to better understand the species’ response to stressors in natural communities, but also inform the sustainable cultivation of the species.

Conclusion

Due to its wide distribution, S. latissima has developed a variety of physiological and biochemical mechanisms to adjust to environmental changes, including adjustments in photosynthetic parameters, modulation of osmolytes and antioxidants, reprogramming of gene expression and epigenetic modifications, among others summarized in this review. This is particularly important because massive changes in the abundance and distribution of S. latissima have already been observed. Namely, presence and abundance of S. latissima has significantly decreased at the rear edges on both sides of the Atlantic, and increased in abundance at the polar regions. These changes were mainly caused by climate change and will therefore be increasingly evident in the future. Recent developments in genomics, transcriptomics and epigenomics have clarified the existence of genetic differentiation along its distributional range with implications in the fitness at some locations. The complex biotic and abiotic interactions unraveled here demonstrated the cascading effects the disappearance of a kelp forest can have in a marine ecosystem. We show how S. latissima is an excellent model to study acclimation and adaptation to environmental variability and how to predict future distribution and persistence under climate change.
LncLocFormer: a Transformer-based deep learning model for multi-label lncRNA subcellular localization prediction by using localization-specific attention mechanism
Authors: Zeng Min , Wu Yifan , Li Yiming , Yin Rui , Lu Chengqian , Duan Junwen , Li Min
Published: December 2023

Motivation

There is mounting evidence that the subcellular localization of lncRNAs can provide valuable insights into their biological functions. In the real world of transcriptomes, lncRNAs are usually localized in multiple subcellular localizations. Furthermore, lncRNAs have specific localization patterns for different subcellular localizations. Although several computational methods have been developed to predict the subcellular localization of lncRNAs, few of them are designed for lncRNAs that have multiple subcellular localizations, and none of them take motif specificity into consideration.

Results

In this study, we proposed a novel deep learning model, called LncLocFormer, which uses only lncRNA sequences to predict multi-label lncRNA subcellular localization. LncLocFormer utilizes eight Transformer blocks to model long-range dependencies within the lncRNA sequence and shares information across the lncRNA sequence. To exploit the relationship between different subcellular localizations and find distinct localization patterns for different subcellular localizations, LncLocFormer employs a localization-specific attention mechanism. The results demonstrate that LncLocFormer outperforms existing state-of-the-art predictors on the hold-out test set. Furthermore, we conducted a motif analysis and found LncLocFormer can capture known motifs. Ablation studies confirmed the contribution of the localization-specific attention mechanism in improving the prediction performance.

Availability and implementation

The LncLocFormer web server is available at http://csuligroup.com:9000/LncLocFormer. The source code can be obtained from https://github.com/CSUBioGroup/LncLocFormer.
Bringing science to the public in the light of evolution
Authors: Blatter Marie-Claude , Zahn-Zabal Monique , Moix Samuel , Pichon Béatrice , Dessimoz Christophe , Glover Natasha
Published: December 2023

Evolution stands as a foundational pillar within modern biology, shaping our understanding of life. Studies related to evolution, for example constructing phylogenetic trees, are often carried out using DNA or protein sequences. These data, readily accessible from public databases, represent a treasure trove of resources that can be harnessed to create engaging activities with the public. At the heart of our project lies a collection of “stories” about evolution, each rooted in genuine scientific publications that furnish both biological context and supporting evidence. These narratives serve as the focal point of our LightOfEvolution.org website. Each story is accompanied by a dedicated “Your Turn to Play” section. Within this section, we furnish user-friendly activities and step-by-step guidelines, equipping visitors with the means to replicate analyses showcased in the highlighted publications. For example, the website OhMyGenes.org, relying on authentic scientific data, provides the capability to compute the proportion of shared genes across different species. Here, visitors can address the captivating question: “How many genes do we share with a banana?” To extend the educational reach, we have developed a series of modular activities, also related to the stories. These activities have been thoughtfully designed to be adaptable for face-to-face workshops held in classrooms or presented during public events. We aim to create stories and activities that resonate with participants, offering a tangible and enjoyable experience. By providing opportunities that reflect real-world scientific practices, we seek to offer participants valuable insights into the current workings of scientists “in the light of evolution.”
When the Body Speaks: Body-Mapping the Somatic Symptoms of Stress in Hospital Social Workers
Authors: Sabbagh James , Fox Mim , Ray Nandini
Published: December 2023

Impact of workplace stress is a significant issue for social workers in hospital practice. This study aims to understand somatic stress in hospital social workers, the physical embodiment of stress and recognition within employing organisations and education. Using a collaborative inquiry methodology, data were collected using body-mapping workshops. Following Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis, three overarching themes were generated: experiences of somatisation, deliberate disembodiment, stress management and staff well-being. Social worker findings include the inhabiting of multiple bodies at work and the impact of the work environment on well-being. Harmful coping strategies and a lack of existing support and recognition were identified. Recommendations include an integration of somatic stress into the existing well-being scholarship to aid in acknowledgement and resourcing.
Validation of the GERAADA score to predict 30-day mortality in acute type A aortic dissection in a single high-volume aortic centre
Authors: Berezowski Mikolaj , Kalva Saiesh , Bavaria Joseph E , Zhao Yu , Patrick William L , Kelly John J , Szeto Wilson Y , Grimm Joshua C , Desai Nimesh D
Published: December 2023

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate employing the German Registry of Acute Aortic Dissection Type A (GERAADA) score to predict 30-day mortality in an aortic centre in the USA.

METHODS

Between January 2010 and June 2021, 689 consecutive patients underwent surgery for acute type A dissection at a single institution. Excluded were patients with missing clinical data (N = 4). The GERAADA risk score was retrospectively calculated via a web-based application. Model discrimination power was calculated with c-statistics from logistic regression and reported as the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve with 95% confidence intervals. The calibration was measured by calculating the observed versus estimated mortality ratio. The Brier score was used for the overall model evaluation.

RESULTS

Included were 685 patients [mean age 60.6 years (SD: 13.5), 64.8% male] who underwent surgery for acute type A aortic dissection. The 30-day mortality rate was 12.0%. The GERAADA score demonstrated very good discrimination power with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.762 (95% confidence interval 0.703–0.821). The entire cohort’s observed versus estimated mortality ratio was 0.543 (0.439–0.648), indicating an overestimation of the model-calculated risk. The Brier score was 0.010, thus revealing the model’s acceptable overall performance.

CONCLUSIONS

The GERAADA score is a practical and easily accessible tool for reliably estimating the 30-day mortality risk of patients undergoing surgery for acute type A aortic dissection. This model may naturally overestimate risk in patients undergoing surgery in experienced aortic centres.
Gender Differences in Social Embeddedness Determinants of Loneliness Among Moroccan and Turkish Older Migrants
Authors: ten Kate Rowan L F , Fokkema Tineke , van Tilburg Theo G
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Moroccan and Turkish migrants residing in Northwestern Europe have high loneliness levels. This study examines gender differences in loneliness within this migrant population. The migrants have gender-segregated social roles at home and in public, which might lead to gender differences in what aspects of social relationships can explain variation in loneliness.

Methods

Respondents are from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam with 446 first-generation Moroccan and Turkish migrants in the Netherlands, aged between 55 and 66 years. We use interaction effects to test for gender differences in determinants of loneliness.

Results

Men and women have a similar, moderate level of loneliness. Having a spouse and receiving care from children are more strongly related with lower loneliness levels in men than in women. Coethnic ties play an equally important role for men and women. In men, frequent mosque attendance is related with greater loneliness, but not in women.

Discussion

Family ties are more protective against loneliness for older men than for older women, possibly indicating that migrant women’s expectations regarding family go above and beyond having a spouse, receiving intergenerational care, or having frequent contact with children. In addition, migrant older men’s higher expectations regarding a public social life could make their social life in the Netherlands less fulfilling, resulting in greater loneliness.
A Facility-Level Analysis of Nursing Home Compare’s Five-Star Rating and Maryland’s Family Satisfaction with Care Survey
Authors: Kusmaul Nancy , Millar Roberto J , Diehl Christin , Stockwell Ian
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives

Nursing facilities care for individuals with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. Poor quality is associated with greater disease and mortality. Quality comprises many factors and different stakeholders value different factors. This study aimed to compare two care quality frameworks, one based on observable factors and one on family satisfaction.

Research Design and Methods

We merged publicly available 2021 Maryland nursing facility data. The Maryland Health Care Commission surveys long-term care residents’ family satisfaction across seven domains. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) 5-star ratings aggregate inspections, staffing, and quality measures. We used univariate and bivariate statistics to compare the frameworks.

Results

The data set included 220 facilities and 4,610 survey respondents. The average facility rating was 7.70/10 and overall 77% of respondents would recommend the facility. Eighty-six percent of respondents from 5-star facilities, 79% from 4-star facilities, and 76% from 3-star facilities would recommend the facility compared to 65% from 1-star facilities (p < .001, p < .01, and p < .05, respectively). Four or 5-star facilities received significantly higher ratings (8.33, p < .001; 7.75, p < .05, respectively) than 1-star facilities (7.07).

Discussion and Implications

Our results corroborated earlier findings of strong associations between CMS ratings and satisfaction at the extremes of the 5-star system. These associations are inconsistent across family-reported domains. This suggests overlap between the frameworks. CMS ratings address care quality; family satisfaction measures quality of life and care quality. High satisfaction is associated with high care quality and quality of life; lower satisfaction is associated with lower care quality.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection Alters Mediators of Lung Tissue Remodeling In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Wong Michael , Gain Chandrima , Sharma Madhav B , Fotooh Abadi Leila , Hugo Cristelle , Vassilopoulos Hariclea , Daskou Maria , Fishbein Gregory A , Kelesidis Theodoros
Published: December 2023

Background

Altered mediators of airway tissue remodeling such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may contribute to morbidity in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, the differential impact of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) on MMPs is unknown.

Methods

Using both in vitro human airway cell culture model and in vivo transgenic mouse model of SARS-CoV-2 infection, we studied the differential effect of SARS-CoV-2 VOCs on expression of key MMPs and inflammatory mediators in airway cells and tissues.

Results

The most consistent findings with all SARS-CoV-2 variants in infected compared to uninfected human bronchial epithelial cell air–liquid interface cultures were the SARS-CoV-2–induced increases in MMP-12 and tissue inhibitor of MMPs. Infection with both SARS-CoV-2 wild type and SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant over 3 days postinfection (dpi) and with Beta variant over 7 dpi increased lung tissue levels of MMP-9 compared to uninfected mice. Overall, SARS-CoV-2 variants had differential dose-dependent impact on secretion of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-12 that varied at the protein versus the gene level and in the early noninflammatory compared to late inflammatory phase of infection.

Conclusions

We provide novel mechanistic insight that the differential impact of SARS-CoV-2 variants on severity of COVID-19 may partially be attributed to unique changes in MMPs.
Severe esophageal stricture after perforation and necrotizing esophagitis: unusual presentation of a duodenal gastrinoma
Authors: Ito Sunao , Ogawa Ryo , Komura Masayuki , Hayakawa Shunsuke , Okubo Tomotaka , Sagawa Hiroyuki , Tanaka Tatsuya , Mitsui Akira , Takahashi Satoru , Takiguchi Shuji
Published: December 2023

Gastrinomas are pancreatic or duodenal endocrine tumors that secrete excess gastrin, which causes gastroesophageal reflux disease, peptic ulcers, and chronic diarrhea. Due to the rarity of the disease, nonspecific symptoms, and the outstanding effect of proton pump inhibitors, diagnosing gastrinomas is difficult. Here, we present the case of a 58-year-old woman who had a duodenal gastrinoma that caused rare but critical events, including esophageal perforation, necrotizing esophagitis, and severe esophageal stricture. She presented with a non-malignant severe lower esophageal stricture, which was resistant to endoscopic dilatation. During esophagectomy, a duodenal mass was excised and diagnosed as gastrinoma. This was considered the main cause of all events. Gastrinomas are rarely encountered in clinical practice, but early diagnosis is necessary to avoid serious conditions. Therefore, whenever we encounter a patient with gastroesophageal reflux disease requiring long-term treatment or is refractory, we must not forget to screen for gastrinomas.
A cornucopia of diversity—Ranunculales as a model lineage
Authors:   The RanOmics group, Becker Annette , Bachelier Julien B , Carrive Laetitia , Conde e Silva Natalia , Damerval Catherine , Del Rio Cédric , Deveaux Yves , Di Stilio Verónica S , Gong Yan , Jabbour Florian , Kramer Elena M , Nadot Sophie , Pabón-Mora Natalia , Wang Wei
Published: December 2023

The Ranunculales are a hyperdiverse lineage in many aspects of their phenotype, including growth habit, floral and leaf morphology, reproductive mode, and specialized metabolism. Many Ranunculales species, such as opium poppy and goldenseal, have a high medicinal value. In addition, the order includes a large number of commercially important ornamental plants, such as columbines and larkspurs. The phylogenetic position of the order with respect to monocots and core eudicots and the diversity within this lineage make the Ranunculales an excellent group for studying evolutionary processes by comparative studies. Lately, the phylogeny of Ranunculales was revised, and genetic and genomic resources were developed for many species, allowing comparative analyses at the molecular scale. Here, we review the literature on the resources for genetic manipulation and genome sequencing, the recent phylogeny reconstruction of this order, and its fossil record. Further, we explain their habitat range and delve into the diversity in their floral morphology, focusing on perianth organ identity, floral symmetry, occurrences of spurs and nectaries, sexual and pollination systems, and fruit and dehiscence types. The Ranunculales order offers a wealth of opportunities for scientific exploration across various disciplines and scales, to gain novel insights into plant biology for researchers and plant enthusiasts alike.
Long-Term Consequences of Spirometry During Military Routine Medical Examinations on Smoking Cessation Compared to Minimal Advice
Authors: Perisse Anne , Dao Marie-Cécile , Butty Damien , Derkenne Clement , Charton France , Fabre Nathalie , Grosset-Janin Anais , Lutringer Manon , Chanet Aurore , Diop Elie , Attia Claire , Coudert Anne , Courson Audrey , Maillot Gaelle , Augen Anne-Sophie , Bagary Pierre , Sahuguet Emilie , Remond Odile , Paleiron Nicolas , Bylicki Olivier
Published: December 2023

Background

Smoking kills 8 million people a year worldwide. It is the most prevalent cause of death in France by cancer, cardiovascular, or respiratory diseases. Minimal advice consists in asking patients who smoke if they are interested in quitting. It is effective in reducing smoking. The French High Health Authority recommends its systematic use with patients, whatever their reason for seeking treatment. The beneficial effect of spirometry on smoking cessation is controversial. The objective of our study was to measure the consequences of spirometry associated with minimal advice, compared with only minimal advice in soldiers seen during a routine medical examination.

Methods

Our prospective, longitudinal, open, multicenter, controlled, randomized study was conducted among French military smokers presenting for an occupational medicine visit. Each participant received, depending on their group (intervention or control), either minimal advice associated with an evaluation of lung function by mini-spirometer, or only minimal advice. Follow-up visits were performed at 6 and 12 months. The primary objective was self-reported tobacco use cessation at 6 months.

Results

A total of 267 participants (126 in the intervention group and 141 for the control arm) were included in 10 centers between June 2019 and June 2020. The response rate was 75.6% at 6 months. The cessation rates were 17% and 18% in the intervention and control groups, respectively, with no significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.9). The cessation rate in the general population was 13% at 6 months.

Conclusions

Spirometry does not seem to influence smoke cessation on a military population at 6 months. The overall cessation rate in our study was well in excess of the 3-6% expected from only providing minimal which is underused in general practice and should be encouraged.
A case of subarachnoid haemorrhage associated with MPO-ANCA-positive eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, successfully treated with glucocorticoid, cyclophosphamide, and mepolizumab
Authors: Satake Yuki , Sakai Shunsuke , Takao Tetsuro , Saeki Takako
Published: December 2023

Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) is a quite rare but serious central nervous system complication of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA). We report a case of myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–positive EGPA in which SAH developed during glucocorticoid induction pulse therapy for skin purpura, peripheral neuropathy, and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. In addition to high-dose glucocorticoid and intravenous cyclophosphamide, we administered mepolizumab, a humanised anti-interleukin-5 monoclonal antibody, and this resulted in remission of the SAH. Although the pathogenesis of SAH in EGPA is not fully understood, both necrotising vasculitis and eosinophilic inflammation are thought to be involved. In addition to prompt intensive immunosuppressive therapy, mepolizumab should be considered for SAH associated with EGPA.
Trends in income and wealth inequalities
Authors: Bourquin Pascale , Brewer Mike , Wernham Thomas
Published: December 2023

This article brings together trends in inequalities in income, wealth and, to a limited extent, consumption in the United Kingdom, with a focus on trends until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It considers how trends in wealth compare with the much better known trends in income inequality and the extent to which changes to the shape of the income distribution—especially at the top—are hidden by an unchanging Gini coefficient. And it explores the key differences between groups in society and especially between those in different birth cohorts.
Women’s Sartorial Agency
Authors: Piela Anna
Published: December 2023

Abstract: After September 11, the world witnessed a rising tide of Islamophobia generally in the West, but more acutely felt in the United States, which had been directly attacked. This fear and hatred of Islam went into overdrive during the presidency of Donald Trump, with his racial and religious slurs directed at Muslims. This section focuses on how Islamophobes frequently target Muslim women in ḥijāb and play up their assumed “victimhood” in order to set up a contrast to “liberated” non-Muslim Western women, creating a “clash of civilizations” discourse that pits a reified “Muslim world” against a reified “West.” The genealogy of this narrative is insightfully explored in this section, revealing its deep historical roots within Orientalism, a phenomenon that has caricatured and demonized the Muslim East, not least through its fetishization of Muslim women and their attire. In the more recent past and continuing into the contemporary period, the clash of civilizations discourse has been deployed to stage the “War on Terror,” which, at least in part, is being waged on the bodies of Muslim women.
Cities and Local Governments
Authors: Philipp Aust Helmut , Rodiles Alejandro
Published: December 2023

This chapter retraces the emergence of cities and local governments as sites and actors of international development. A friction exists between two seemingly competing understandings of global development: the 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The SDGs are the most important multilateral articulation of ideas of development today. They are considerably shaped by the long shadow of the post-Cold War era as well as the shifting priorities of influential actors. The BRI follows a different idea of international development, built around the notions of non-interference and ‘win–win cooperation’. What unites these two blueprints for global development is that international law, as traditionally understood, does not seem to take centre stage. This chapter argues that it may be a new type of international law which emerges from these global constellations of international development which comes not only, but also from below.
Africa as a ‘Theatre’ of International Law and Development
Authors: Okafor Obiora Chinedu , Miyawa Maxwel
Published: December 2023

This chapter provides an account of the ways in which the international project of development has been received, embraced, and contested in Africa, and the roles that law, often a potent instrument of change and control, has played in framing and shaping that encounter. In viewing Africa as a regional ‘theatre’ of the international law and development project, the chapter principally offers an account of the ways in which international law and development apparatuses, institutions, norms, policies, and praxis have been received, debated, embraced, or contested, and shaped in and by the multiplicities and complexities of African thought, knowledge, and practice. The chapter develops the argument that while African knowledge generation, practice, and resistance in the field has, to varying degrees, both contested or embraced, the dominant versions of the international law and development project, Africa’s innovations in all three aspects need to be better understood and factored in.
Re-storying Law and Development in Oceania
Authors: Monson Rebecca , Camacho Keith L. , Foukona Joseph D.
Published: December 2023

The Pacific is vast, and its people and places woven into a rich array of cultures, ecologies, and legal systems. However, development discourses emanating from Global North institutions consistently portray the region in homogenised terms, as a series of small, underdeveloped, and under-governed islands dotting an empty expanse of ocean. This chapter draws on a rich vein of Pacific scholarship to highlight the effects of these dominant portrayals. It does so with reference to three key areas of concern for Global North institutions: state-building and securitisation of borders, the regulation of Indigenous land and sea, and gender inequality. The chapter then focuses on efforts to ‘decolonise’ and ‘re-story’ mainstream development, and highlights three key characteristics of these efforts: they are emplaced in landscapes, seascapes, and skyscapes; they are founded on Indigenous customs, languages, and the arts; and they are expansive, linking diverse struggles through time and space.