bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suprasternal approach for insertion of Impella 5.5 into the proximal right subclavian artery
Authors: Patel Jay A. , Hashmi Zubair A.
Published: February 2024

The Impella 5.5 (Abiomed) is a percutaneous, temporary left ventricular assist device (LVAD) that serves as an important method of treatment of acute cardiogenic shock refractory to medical management. The Impella 5.5 and 5.0 are commonly inserted through the right axillary artery; however, this may be limited by inadequate vessel diameter to accommodate the Impella and inadequate vessel quality. A central approach to Impella 5.5 incision has been described in the pediatric population, particularly via the innominate artery through a suprasternal and/or neck incision, with success. As an alternative to axillary Impella placement, we propose the usage of a limited suprasternal incision for Impella 5.5 insertion in the adult population, either through the proximal right subclavian artery or the distal innominate artery. This may offer multiple advantages, such as increased vessel diameter and quality of more proximal vessels, avoidance of partial sternotomy, avoidance of a second infraclavicular wound site if the patient progresses to require LVAD or transplant, avoidance of lymphatic and nerve injury through the axillary exposure, ease of manipulation for repositioning, and patient rehabilitation. Potential limitations include difficulty due to body habitus, potential risk of stroke with the innominate approach, and wound complications. A central approach is a reasonable alternative to axillary Impella placement in patients with inadequate axillary artery caliber, defined as less than 6–7 mm diameter, poor artery quality to accommodate anastomosis, and small body habitus, allowing for ease of exposure.
The effect of mindfulness-based art therapy on psychological symptoms and happiness levels in patients with migraine: a pilot study
Authors: Demir Volkan , Eryürek Selin , Savaş Esra
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy Program on the depression, anxiety and stress symptoms, and happiness of participants. This study is a quasi-experimental research with a pretest-posttest design. The independent variable of the study was the Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy Program, which was applied to the study group between the pretest and posttest. The dependent variables of the study were the depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms and happiness of the individuals included in the study group. The study group consisted of a total of 10 participants (8 females and 2 males) between the ages of 24 and 46, who met the inclusion criteria. The Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Oxford Happiness Scale Short Form (OHS-SF) were applied to the participants both at the beginning of the study and at the end of 8 weeks. A total of 8 sessions of the Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy Program were applied to the study group. Each session lasted 180 min. The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was used to analyze the data obtained to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. The analyses showed that the Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy Program was effective in reducing the depression and stress symptoms of the participants and increasing their happiness but was not effective in reducing their anxiety symptoms. In conclusion, although positive clinical findings were observed in this pilot study, more studies are needed to confirm these findings about the Mindfulness-Based Art Therapy Program as an alternative treatment method for patients with migraine.
Back to the roots of cause-related marketing – A systematic literature review of cooperation motives
Authors: Stötzer Sandra , Kaltenbrunner Katharina
Published: February 2024

Based on a systematic literature review, this paper explores the motives for cooperation between nonprofit organizations (NPO) and companies as profit organizations (PO) in the context of cause-related marketing (CrM) partnerships. CrM is a marketing and fundraising tool which combines the purchase of products with a “good cause” and has already gained significant attention in theory and practice as a widespread practice of corporate social responsibility. However, research often focuses on specific aspects and primarily on the perspective of consumers (i.e., their purchase or support intentions), while only a few studies deal with the motives that NPO and PO pursue with such intersectoral collaboration. Overall, the findings indicate that research on the NPO’s view is particularly limited and that CrM is generally based on a bundle of motives or (both financial and non-financial) goals, with the self-interested perspective of PO appearing to be dominant. The paper suggests several avenues for further research and advocates a stronger focus on fundamental questions that were raised decades ago but have not been adequately answered since the origins of CrM.
Influence of Transition Metals on the Development of Semiconducting and Low Thermal Expansion TiO2-Borosilicate Glasses and Glass Ceramics
Authors: Al Kiey Sherief A. , Abdel-Hameed S. A. M. , Marzouk M. A.
Published: February 2024

This current investigation represents as well as discusses in detail the characterization of the thermal, mechanical, as well as electrical characteristics of titanium-based borosilicate glasses doped transition metal ions (3d) in addition to their corresponding glass–ceramics. The building structural units of the as-prepared glasses together with their glass – ceramic were characterized by the FTIR technique. FTIR spectra reveal characteristic silicate and borate groups vibrations, some of the TiO4 units are formed beside (TiO6) groups. The progressive enhancement in microhardness and thermal expansion values was recorded for glass – ceramic state that occurred as a result of the crystallization of nano-sized crystals throughout the glass matrix. The estimated electrical parameters which include permittivity (ε'), dielectric loss (ε''), AC conductivity (σac) capacitance (C), and dielectric loss demonstrated a distinctive variation in their values in accordance with the type of transition metal and /or the applied frequency. The prepared glass–ceramic was found to be suitable for use in electronics and solar cell applications based on its overall thermal and electrical properties.
Assessing primary school preservice teachers’ confidence to apply their TPACK in specific categories of technologies using a self-audit survey
Authors: Martin David A. , Carey Michael D. , McMaster Natalie , Clarkin Madeleine
Published: February 2024

Internationally, university teacher educators have acted on the requirement that practising teachers need to be operational users of technologies. In response, coursework has been restructured to develop preservice teachers’ (PSTs) use and application of educational technologies for teaching and learning purposes. This paper presents the development and use of a self-audit survey designed to guide primary school PSTs’ self-directed learning and assessments in 10 specific categories of technologies, and to improve their confidence to apply their knowledge. The survey was administered to 296 PSTs in a pre- and post-course design and validated post hoc with Rasch analysis. Pre- and post-course comparison of responses showed significant increases in the PSTs’ self-assessed confidence in their abilities across all ability categories with medium to large effect sizes (r = .42–.82). The survey had utility, providing each PST with a customised report with which to identify their technology learning needs; it also provided PSTs with the agency to be self-directed in their learning. The survey has the potential to provide teacher educators with fine-grained information regarding which technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) being currently taught can be adopted, adapted, or rejected to maximise PSTs’ TPACK development.
Supporting the inclusion of gender and sexuality diversity in schools: Auditing Australian education departmental policies
Authors: Ullman Jacqueline , Manlik Kate , Ferfolja Tania
Published: February 2024

While school policies are not a panacea, gender and sexuality diversity-inclusive policies have the potential to relieve educators’ concerns about what they are ‘allowed’ to engage with in respect to GSD inclusivity and to guide their proactive efforts to support gender and sexuality diverse (GSD) students. Unfortunately, policies enabling educators’ proactive, positive support for GSD students are far from systematised in schools across Australia’s eight states and territories. This paper presents an audit of publicly available policy guidance for educators in Australia’s government schools, analysing these against an original evaluative set of best-practice criteria developed from research recommendations from the field of GSD-inclusivity in K-12 schools. Analyses for each state/territory are provided. Results from this audit highlight the unevenness in articulated policy support available to Australian educators and illustrate the criticality of developing Australian federal policy mandates with respect to GSD inclusivity and professional development for educators, including both articulated expectations for the creation/maintenance of a safe and affirming environment as well as pragmatic support for how to create school cultural change.
Solid phase microextraction arrow-ion mobility spectrometry for determination of selected pesticides in water
Authors: Seyed Khademi S. M. , Ilbeigi V. , Valadbeigi Y. , Tabrizchi M. , Telgheder U.
Published: February 2024

Ion mobility spectrometry with corona discharge ion source was used for the measurements of selected pesticides cybutryne, terbutryn, dichlorvos, and quinoxyfen in water. The analyses were carried out by (i) direct injection of the aqueous solution of the pesticides and (ii) extraction using solid phase microextraction by commercial SPME arrows. The instrumental and the experimental extraction parameters including the drift tube temperature, injection port temperature, and the SPME fiber type were studied and optimized to achieve the maximum signal intensity. The limit of detections obtained by the direct injection were about 0.1–1.0 mg L−1. Using the SPME arrow-ion mobility spectrometry method, the detection limits were improved 7–50 times and obtained as 0.01, 0.015, 0.05, and 0.1 mg L−1 for terbutryn, dichlorvos, cybutryne, and quinoxyfen, respectively. The recovery rate for analysis in surface water (real samples) was approximately 90–110% for both the direct injection and solid phase microextraction method. The capability of ion mobility spectrometry for the simultaneous detection of a mixture of the studied pesticides was assessed, and it was found that terbutryn, dichlorvos, and quinoxyfen can be detected simultaneously without peak overlapping.
Plasma wire arc additive manufacturing and its influence on high-carbon steel substrate properties
Authors: Moschinger Matthias , Vauderwange Thomas , Enzinger Norbert
Published: February 2024

Steels with a high carbon content are considered to be difficult to weld. High carbon equivalent indicates not only problems when joining such steels but also when using them as substrate in additive manufacturing (AM). In this study, the possibility of manufacturing a high-strength steel structure on a high-carbon steel substrate using plasma wire arc additive manufacturing (PWAAM) is demonstrated. This study deals with the thermal history and its effects on the substrate resulting from a multilayer build-up. In-substrate temperature measurements as well as metallographic and hardness measurement will provide an understanding of the influence of the process on the substrate. Additionally, a local pre-heating concept using penetration depth induction (PDI) is considered. PDI also enables energy rearrangement in which energy is removed from the AM process and introduced directly into the substrate by PDI. These variants of the preheating concept are also being investigated concerning their effects on the substrate and its properties. A comparison of multilayer buildup without and with PDI is intended to show the differences but also the possibilities that can be achieved with the PDI approach. The investigations carried out are intended to create the basis for a quality AM structure on a high-carbon steel substrate as well as optimized properties of the substrate. It is also shown that the transition zone between the substrate and the AM structure is not trivial for such a material combination.
Barriers and facilitators to older adult participation in intergenerational physical activity program: a systematic review
Authors: Zhou Fan , Zhang Hong , Wang Hong Yan , Liu Lin Feng , Zhang Xian Geng
Published: February 2024

Background

The intergenerational physical activity program aims to promote the health, social engagement, and well-being of older adults. It is essential to comprehend the barriers and facilitators that affect their involvement to develop successful intervention strategies. This systematic review critically examines available research to identify the factors that impact the participation of older adults in intergenerational physical activity programs.

Methods

This study retrieved 13 electronic databases (from January 2000 to March 2023) and used a social-ecological model to classify and analyze the identified facilitators and barriers.

Results

A total of 12 articles were included, which identified 73 facilitators and 37 barriers. These factors were condensed into 7 primary themes and 14 sub-themes in total.

Conclusions

The factors influencing the participation of older adults in intergenerational physical activities are multifaceted. These factors guide project developers, policymakers, and practitioners in developing and implementing intergenerational physical activity programs to help address global aging issues and promote intergenerational connections.

Trial registry

PROSPERO ID: CRD42023420758.
Dysregulation of acyl carnitines, pentose phosphate pathway and arginine and ornithine metabolism are associated with decline in intrinsic capacity in Chinese older adults
Authors: Pan Yiming , Li Yun , Chhetri Jagadish K. , Liu Pan , Li Bowen , Liu Zuyun , Shui Guanghou , Ma Lina
Published: February 2024

Background

Intrinsic capacity is the combination of individual physical and mental abilities, reflecting the aging degree of the older adults. However, the mechanisms and metabolic characteristics of the decline in intrinsic capacity are still unclear.

Aims

To identify metabolic signatures and associated pathways of decline in intrinsic capacity based on the metabolite features.

Methods

We recruited 70 participants aged 77.19 ± 8.31 years. The five domains of intrinsic capacity were assessed by Short Physical Performance Battery (for mobility), Montreal cognition assessment (for cognition), 30-Item Geriatric Depression Scale (for psychology), self-reported hearing/visual impairment (for sensory) and Nutritional risk screening (for vitality), respectively. The serum samples of participants were analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based metabolomics, followed by metabolite set enrichment analysis and metabolic pathway analysis.

Results

There were 50 participants with a decline in intrinsic capacity in at least one of the domains. A total of 349 metabolites were identified from their serum samples. Overall, 24 differential metabolites, 5 metabolite sets and 13 pathways were associated with the decline in intrinsic capacity.

Discussion

Our results indicated that decline in intrinsic capacity had unique metabolomic profiles.

Conclusion

The specific change of acyl carnitines was observed to be a feature of decline in intrinsic capacity. Dysregulation of the pentose phosphate pathway and of arginine and ornithine metabolism was strongly associated with the decline in intrinsic capacity.
Comparative efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation for post-stroke cognitive impairment: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Yan Mengyu , Liu Jiarui , Guo Yiming , Hou Qingtao , Song Jiaqi , Wang Xiaoqin , Yu Weihua , Lü Yang
Published: February 2024

Background

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) is a burgeoning approach with the potential to significantly enhance cognition and functional abilities in individuals who have undergone a stroke. However, the current evidence lacks robust comparisons and rankings of various NIBS methods concerning the specific stimulation sites and parameters used. To address this knowledge gap, this systematic review and meta-analysis seek to offer conclusive evidence on the efficacy and safety of NIBS in treating post-stroke cognitive impairment.

Methods

A systematic review of randomized control trials (RCT) was performed using Bayesian network meta-analysis. We searched RCT in the following databases until June 2022: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), PUBMED, and EMBASE. We compared any active NIBS to control in terms of improving cognition function and activities of daily living (ADL) capacity following stroke.

Results

After reviewing 1577 retrieved citations, a total of 26 RCTs were included. High-frequency (HF)-repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) (mean difference 2.25 [95% credible interval 0.77, 3.66]) was identified as a recommended approach for alleviating the global severity of cognition. Dual-rTMS (27.61 [25.66, 29.57]) emerged as a favorable technique for enhancing ADL function. In terms of stimulation targets, the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex exhibited a higher ranking in relation to the global severity of cognition.

Conclusions

Among various NIBS techniques, HF-rTMS stands out as the most promising intervention for enhancing cognitive function. Meanwhile, Dual-rTMS is highly recommended for improving ADL capacity.
Physical performance and negative events in very old adults: a longitudinal study examining the ilSIRENTE cohort
Authors: Coelho-Júnior Hélio José , Calvani Riccardo , Álvarez-Bustos Alejandro , Tosato Matteo , Russo Andrea , Landi Francesco , Picca Anna , Marzetti Emanuele
Published: February 2024

Background

Declining physical performance in old age is associated with a wide range of negative health-related outcomes. However, it is unclear which physical capabilities should be prioritized to obtain prognostic information in older adults.

Aims

To examine the associations between the performance on several physical function tests and falls, disability, and death in a well-characterized sample of very old Italian adults.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of older adults who lived in the mountain community of the Sirente geographic area in Central Italy. Physical performance was assessed using isometric handgrip strength (IHG), walking speed (WS) at a usual and fast pace, 5-time sit-to-stand test (5STS), and sit-to-stand power measures. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass was estimated from calf circumference using a validated equation. History of falls, incident falls, and disability status according to basic Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) were recorded over two years. Survival status was obtained from the participants’ general practitioners and was confirmed by the National Death Registry over 10 years from enrolment. Linear, binary, and Cox regressions were performed to evaluate the association between physical performance measures and health outcomes.

Results

The mean age of the 255 participants was 84.2 ± 5.1 years, and 161 (63.1%) were women.

Logistic regression indicated that IHG was significantly associated with incident ADL disability, whereas specific sit-to-stand muscle power was an independent predictor of death. No significant associations were observed between physical function and falls.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate selective associations between physical function tests and the occurrence of negative events in very old adults, with poor IHG predicting disability and specific sit-to-stand muscle power being longitudinally associated with death.
Examining Race-Based and Gender-Based Discrimination, Trust in Providers, and Mental Well-Being Among Black Women
Authors: Cuffee Yendelela L. , Preston Portia A. Jackson , Akuley Suzanne , Jaffe Rachel , Person Sharina , Allison Jeroan J.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To examine experiences of discrimination among Black women, and to determine if experiencing race- and gender-based discrimination is associated with mental well-being and trust.

Methods

Data from the TRUST study were used to examine experiences of discrimination among 559 Black women with hypertension receiving healthcare at a safety-net hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. A three-level variable was constructed to combine the race-based and gender-based measures of the Experiences of Discrimination scale. Linear regression was used to examine the association between experiences of discrimination with mental well-being and trust.

Results

Women who reported no experiences of race- or gender-based discrimination were older and reported higher mental well-being scores and greater trust. Fifty-three percent of study participants reported experiencing discrimination. Compared to participants who did not experience race- or gender-based discrimination, participants reporting experiences of race- or gender-based discrimination and those reporting experiencing both race- and gender-based discrimination were more likely to report poorer mental health.

Conclusion

Reported experiences of gender- and/or race-based discrimination in this study were associated with lower mental health scores and less trust in health care providers. Our findings highlight the importance of examining experiences of discrimination among Black women, and the role of discrimination as a stressor and in reducing trust for providers. Incorporating an understanding and acknowledgement of experiences of discrimination into interventions, programs, and during clinical encounters may foster more trusting relationships between providers and patients.
Estimated glomerular filtration rate in observational and interventional studies in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Provenzano Michele , Hu Lilio , Abenavoli Chiara , Cianciolo Giuseppe , Coppolino Giuseppe , De Nicola Luca , La Manna Gaetano , Comai Giorgia , Baraldi Olga
Published: February 2024

Estimated glomerular filtration rate is considered the principal measure of kidney function and, together with albuminuria, is a relevant prognostic factor for the development of end-stage kidney disease. Due to the strong association between estimated glomerular filtration rate and clinical events, such as commencement of dialysis, cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause death, estimated glomerular filtration rate is crucial for clinical decision-making in terms of scheduling follow-up and pharmacological interventions, and planning renal replacement therapies in advanced chronic kidney disease. In this review we discuss the available methods for measuring glomerular filtration rate and for estimating it through mathematical equations developed over the last few decades. We summarize the prognostic association of different percentages of estimated glomerular filtration rate decline and the main clinical outcomes, and how treatments modify estimated glomerular filtration rate decline and the risk of future endpoints. We also examine the role of pre-clinical trial slope and that of estimated glomerular filtration rate as a useful biomarker when evaluating patients for inclusion into both observational and interventional studies.
“Frequently Asked Questions” About Genetic Engineering in Farm Animals: A Frame Analysis
Authors: Koralesky Katherine E. , Tworek Heidi J. S. , von Keyserlingk Marina A. G. , Weary Daniel M.
Published: February 2024

Calls for public engagement on emerging agricultural technologies, including genetic engineering of farm animals, have resulted in the development of information that people can interact and engage with online, including “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQs) developed by organizations seeking to inform or influence the debate. We conducted a frame analysis of FAQs webpages about genetic engineering of farm animals developed by different organizations to describe how questions and answers are presented. We categorized FAQs as having a regulatory frame (emphasizing or challenging the adequacy of regulations), an efficiency frame (emphasizing precision and benefits), a risks and uncertainty frame (emphasizing unknown outcomes), an animal welfare frame (emphasizing benefits for animals) or an animal dignity frame (considering the inherent value of animals). Animals were often featured as the object of regulations in FAQs, and questions about animals were linked to animal welfare regulations. The public were represented using a variety of terms (public, consumer) and pronouns (I, we). Some FAQs described differences between technology terms (gene editing, genetic modification) and categorized technologies as either well-established or novel. This framing of the technology may not respond to actual public concerns on the topic. Organizations seeking to use FAQs as a public engagement tool might consider including multiple viewpoints and actual questions people have about genetic engineering.
Gd2O3/CdS Nanocomposites were Synthesized for Photocatalytic Elimination of Methyl Blue (MB) Dye Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Abdrabou Dalia , Ahmed Mohamed Khalaf , Khairy Sherif A. , El-Sherbini Tharwat Mahmoud
Published: February 2024

Water contamination with hazardous dyes is a serious environmental issue that concerns humanity. A green technology to resolve this issue is the use of highly efficient photocatalysts under visible light to degrade these organic molecules. Adding composite and modifying shape and size on semiconductor materials are attempts to improve the efficacy of these compositions. The optical, microstructural and photocatalytic features of the compositions were investigated by several characterization procedures such as XRD, XPS, SEM, and TEM. Here, modifies Scherrer equation, Williamson–Hall (W–H), and Halder–Wagner method (H–W) have been used to investigate the crystal size and the micro-strain from the XRD peak broadening analysis. The average crystal size according to Modified Scherrer’s formula was 6.04–10.46 nm for pristine CdS and CdS/Gd2O3@GO, respectively. While the micro-strain (ɛ) corresponds to 3.88, 4.63, 4.03, and 4.15 for CdS, Gd2O3, CdS/Gd2O3, and CdS/Gd2O3@GO. It was also shown that the modest difference in average crystal size acquired by the Modified Scherrer and Halder–Wagner (HW) forms was related to differences in average particle size classification. As a result, the Halder–Wagner method was accurate in estimating crystallite size for the compositions. The average roughness is slightly changed from 4.4 to 4.24 nm for CdS/Gd2O3 and CdS/Gd2O3@GO, respectively. A kinetics investigation further revealed that the photocatalytic degradation of MB dyes was accompanied by a Langmuir isotherm and a pseudo-second-order reaction rate. The highest adsorption capacity (qe) determined for (type 1) CdS, Gd2O3, CdS/Gd2O3, and CdS/Gd2O3@GO adsorption was 5, 0.067, 0.027, and 0.012 mgg−1, respectively. The R2 values originated from the pseudo-second-order (type 2) for CdS, Gd2O3, CdS/Gd2O3, and CdS/ Gd2O3@GO were 0.904, 0,928, 0.825, and 0.977. As a result, the initial sorption rate (h) is altered between types 1 and 2. In type 2, the pseudo-second-order rate constant (k2) ranges from 0.005 for CdS to 0.011 for CdS/Gd2O3@GO. The Langmuir Hinshelwood and pseudo-second-order kinetic models describe the photodegradation process. The results demonstrate that the developed compositions can be used as a long-term substance for dye removal.
Numerical Analysis on the Static Performance of Gas Journal Bearing by Using Finite Element Method
Authors: Wang Pengfeng , Li Yuntang , Gao Xiang , Ye Yueliang , Li Ruirui , Li Xiaolu , Chen Yuan , Jin Jie , Zhang Cong
Published: February 2024

In this paper, finite element method is used to calculate the static performance of gas journal bearing, in which rotation speed term is introduced into the stiffness matrix of linear triangular element to realize the performance calculation of the bearing with rotation speed. The results indicate that the average gas film thicknesses corresponding to the maximum load capacity and stiffness, and the minimum attitude angle increase with the growth of orifice diameter. Load capacity and stiffness significantly improved with the increase of rotation speed, eccentricity ratio and supply pressure when the bearing has thin average gas film thickness. Attitude angle increases with the growth of rotation speed, while the growth rate slows down or even decreases at high speed. The most effective way of reducing attitude angle is to increase supply pressure. It can be found that rotation speed affects attitude angle through changing gas pressure difference between two orifices, while other parameters have the same effect by changing gas pressure at orifice outlet.
A Decision Tree Based Ultra-high-speed Protection Scheme for Meshed MMC-MTDC Grids with Hybrid Lines
Authors: Gaballah Amr , Abu-Elanien Ahmed E. B. , Megahed Ashraf I.
Published: February 2024

The reliable operation of modular multi-level converter based multi-terminal high voltage direct current (MMC-MTDC) grids requires high-speed and selective DC line protection. A single-ended protection technique is proposed for MTDC grids with offshore wind farms and hybrid lines that involve overhead lines and submarine cables in series. Positive and negative poles’ currents at one end of each line section are analyzed using discrete wavelet analysis (DWA). To classify fault type and identify fault zone, a fine decision tree is supplied with an energy index and the envelope slop of detail 1 coefficient (D1) obtained from DWA. Only 0.2 ms following the fault inception are needed for calculating the energy index and the envelope slope to perform relay functions. The approach was tested on a three-terminal two-poles $$\pm$$
±
400 kV MMC-MTDC model. The simulation results validate the effectiveness of the suggested protection technique under various fault scenarios, even with up to 200 Ω fault resistance. The proposed technique is not only able to detect the faulty line, but also it identifies overhead line faults and submarine cable faults for hybrid type lines. Moreover, the proposed technique is not affected by wind power injection changes, AC faults, or data noise. The simulated model was produced in the MATLAB/Simulink platform.
On Nonlinear Analysis for Multi-term Delay Fractional Differential Equations Under Hilfer Derivative
Authors: Ahmad Dildar , Ali Amjad , Shah Kamal , Abdalla Bahaaeldin , Abdeljawad Thabet
Published: February 2024

In this manuscript, a class of multi-term delay fractional differential equations (FDEs) under the Hilfer derivative is considered. Some newly updated results are established under boundary conditions. For the required results, we utilize the fixed point theory and tools of the nonlinear functional analysis. Further keeping in mind the importance of stability results, we develop some adequate results about the said aspect. The Hyers-Ulam (H-U)-type concept is used to derive the required stability for the solution of the considered problem. Finally, by appropriate test problems, we justify our findings.
Isolation, characterization, and screening of yeast biodiversity for multi- hydrolytic enzymes
Authors: Al Halim Laila R. Abd , Hemeda Nada F. , Serag Ahmed M.
Published: February 2024

The current investigation was conducted with the objective of identifying yeasts that possess the ability to secrete a range of hydrolytic enzymes. Yeast isolates were collected from various samples, and the morphological characteristics of both the colony and yeast cells were examined. The capacity for enzyme production was assessed in multiple isolates by inoculating them in different media and quantifying their activities in terms of pectinase, amylase, urease, lipase, β-galactosidase, and protease. Out of a total of 42 yeast isolates, 30 displayed enzymatic activity. It is plausible that the yeast isolates obtained in this study hold potential for the production of industrial enzymes. Molecular identification techniques were employed to identify two isolates that exhibited multi-enzyme production and the highest enzyme activities. It was determined that these isolates belonged to two genera of yeasts, namely Pichia and Hanseniaspora. Specifically, isolate Y 16 was identified as Pichia kudriavizvii OL621856, while isolate Y 26 was identified as Hanseniaspora guillermondii OL621857 strains.
Hypogammaglobulinemia and Infection Risk in an Ocrelizumab-treated Multiple Sclerosis Cohort
Authors: Nobile Steven , Beauchemin Philippe
Published: February 2024

Background:

Ocrelizumab is an effective anti-CD20 therapy approved for Relapsing Remitting (RRMS) and Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS). In clinical trials, a proportion of patients developed hypogammaglobulinemia which could contribute to infection risk. This study aimed to identify hypogammaglobulinemia and its risk factors and evaluate potentially associated serious infection risk in a real-world cohort of patients.

Methods:

All MS patients treated with ocrelizumab in a Quebec City MS clinic from January 2017 to August 2021 were included and detailed patient characteristics were collected by chart review. Levels of immunoglobulins (IgM, IgA and IgG) were assessed prior to each treatment. Serious infection was defined as an infection requiring hospitalization or emergency room treatment. Association between hypogammaglobulinemia and serious infection was analyzed.

Results:

A total of 266 patients (average follow-up 2.05 years) were included (87% RRMS). After 6 infusions, 32.8%, 3.5% and 4.2% of patients had at least one IgM, IgA and IgG hypogammaglobulinemia event respectively. Aside from pre-treatment hypogammaglobulinemia, there were no variables associated with on-treatment hypogammaglobulinemia. There was a total of 21 serious infections (3.36 and 12.33 per 100-person-years in RRMS and PPMS). Developing hypogammaglobulinemia during treatment was not associated with serious infection. A regression analysis did not show associations between serious infection and key disease characteristics.

Conclusion:

Similar to ocrelizumab extension studies, our cohort demonstrated a significant rate of hypogammaglobulinemia over time, mostly with IgM. No association was found between hypogammaglobulinemia and serious infection.
Underground Empire: Charles Warren, William Simpson, and the Archeological Exploration of Palestine
Authors: Auerbach Jeffrey
Published: February 2024

British army officer Charles Warren's archeological excavations in Jerusalem in the late 1860s on behalf of the Palestine Exploration Fund and Scottish artist William Simpson's paintings of those activities articulated a new kind of imperial space: the underground empire. The imperial underground was a place that had not yet been conquered and where the British had limited visibility. In contrast to picturesque and panoramic views that created an illusion of order and omniscience, Simpson's sketches depict an imperial presence that was confined, constrained, and in danger of collapse. Yet as the British began to probe this subterranean frontier, they turned the underground world into a place not just of darkness and danger but of exploration and excitement. In the process, Warren's work and Simpson's portrayal of it helped lay the foundation for Britain's eventual conquest of Palestine during the First World War by burrowing beneath Jerusalem's dilapidated Ottoman present in search of its ancient and Judeo-Christian past. Jerusalem was not the only node in Britain's nascent underground empire—British work there occurred alongside the construction of sewers and railway tunnels in London and the mining of gold and diamonds in Australia and South Africa—but it was in Jerusalem that an imperial underground was first and most fully articulated, a space that embodied both the precariousness and the potential of Britain's embryonic efforts to establish a presence in the Middle East.
The Bulgarian connection: the Young Turks in exile and the making of radicalism in Ottoman Europe, 1895–1897
Authors: Öztan Ramazan Hakkı
Published: February 2024

Focusing on the years between 1895 and 1897, this article reconstructs what happened after the arrival of Young Turk revolutionaries into the cities of the Danubian hinterland, particularly centering on Rusçuk (Ruse in today’s Bulgaria). In tracing the footsteps of İbrahim Temo and Mustafa Ragıp, two self-exiled figures from İstanbul, this study captures a particular moment when the Danubian cities became the hotbed of transnational radicalism, as a number of assassination plots began to be hatched by Muslim revolutionaries. A well-connected port city serviced by regular steamship links, Rusçuk was where professional revolutionaries met with the local Muslims, much to the ire of Ottoman diplomats in the region. In capturing their encounters, the goal is to point to the significance of Young Turk activities in the Balkans before the turn of the century, a phase which remains understudied in the existing literature. By focusing on a secondary port city that became home to failed assassination plots, this article also seeks to contribute to ongoing discussion in global history that warns against narratives of unhindered globalization. In studying fin-de-siecle radicalization, I hope to contribute to these debates by reflecting upon the limits of globalization as a productive field of historical inquiry.
Association of the short-chain fatty acid levels and dietary quality with type 2 diabetes: a case–control study based on Henan Rural Cohort
Authors: Li Jia , Li Yuqian , Zhang Shuhua , Wang Chongjian , Mao Zhenxing , Huo Wenqian , Yang Tianyu , Li Yan , Xing Wenguo , Li Linlin
Published: February 2024

Evidence of the relationship between fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) levels, dietary quality and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in rural populations is limited. Here, we aimed to investigate the association between fecal SCFA levels and T2DM and the combined effects of dietar quality on T2DM in rural China. In total, 100 adults were included in the case–control study. Dietary quality was assessed by the Alternate Healthy Eating Index 2010 (AHEI-2010), and SCFA levels were analysed using the GC-MS system. Generalised linear regression was conducted to calculate the OR and 95 % CI to evaluate the effect of SCFA level and dietary quality on the risk of T2DM. Finally, an interaction was used to study the combined effect of SCFA levels and AHEI-2010 scores on T2DM. T2DM participants had lower levels of acetic and butyric acid. Generalised linear regression analysis revealed that the OR (95 % CI) of the highest acetic and butyric acid levels were 0·099 (0·022, 0·441) and 0·210 (0·057, 0·774), respectively, compared with the subjects with the lowest tertile of level. We also observed a significantly lower risk of T2DM with acetic acid levels > 1330·106 μg/g or butyric acid levels > 585·031 μg/g. Moreover, the risks of higher acetic and butyric acid levels of T2DM were 0·007 (95 % CI: 0·001, 0·148), 0·005 (95 % CI: 0·001, 0·120) compared with participants with lower AHEI-2010 scores (all P < 0·05). Acetate and butyrate levels may be important modifiable beneficial factors affecting T2DM in rural China. Improving dietary quality for body metabolism balance should be encouraged to promote good health.
Reflections on Constitutionalism and Democratic Governance in Africa
Authors: Udombana Nsongurua
Published: February 2024

Several post-independence African states have opted for constitutional democracies in response to various governance challenges. Most of these constitutions espouse values of constitutionalism, such as the rule of law, human rights and citizenship. This article interrogates the concept of constitutionalism, examines its pillars and values, and reflects on how Africa's constitutions mirror them. Its thesis is that a constitutional government does not necessarily approximate constitutionalism. The article argues, with evidence, that many states possess constitutions but fall short in practising constitutionalism. It calls on these states to embark on institutional reforms and to pursue good governance that improves the living standards of their citizens.
Retail Trading and Return Predictability in China
Authors: Jones Charles M. , Shi Donghui , Zhang Xiaoyan , Zhang Xinran
Published: February 2024

Using comprehensive account-level data, we separate Chinese retail investors into 5 groups and document strong heterogeneity in trading dynamics and performances. Retail investors with smaller account sizes cannot predict future returns correctly, display daily momentum patterns, fail to process public news, and show overconfidence and gambling preferences, while retail investors with larger account balances predict future returns correctly, display contrarian patterns, and incorporate public news in trading. Using performance measures established in previous literature, we find that smaller retail investors suffer from poor stock selection abilities and trading costs, while large retail investors’ stock selection abilities are offset by trading costs.
Disinfection of flexible fibre-optic endoscopes out-of-hours: confidential telephone survey of ENT units in England – 20 years on
Authors: Clymo Jonathon , Bickerton Robert , McBrinn Sarah , Rollin Matthew
Published: February 2024

Background

Flexible upper aerodigestive endoscopy is often performed in the emergency setting. To prevent nosocomial infection on-call clinicians must have access to decontaminated endoscopes.

Methods

A telephone survey of 104 ENT units in England replicated previous cycles conducted 10 and 20 years ago. The on-call clinician was asked about decontamination practices, training and cross-cover.

Results

Seventy-one clinicians participated of which 68 had an endoscope available out-of-hours. Twenty-five (36.8 per cent) used single-use endoscopes. Twenty-three (51.1 per cent) of the 45 clinicians using re-usable endoscopes decontaminated them themselves, an increase from 43.3 per cent in 2013 and from 35.1 per cent in 2002. Overall 91.2 per cent had safe practices, up from 68.7 per cent in 2013 and 48 per cent in 2002. One hundred per cent had been trained in decontamination, compared to 37.3 per cent in 2013 and 12.1 per cent in 2002. On-call clinicians from the ENT department increased to 91.5 per cent, compared to 63 per cent in 2013.

Conclusion

There has been a dramatic increase in patient safety, underpinned by the introduction of single-use endoscopes, increased training and reduced cross-cover.
Unveiling the wasp-waist structure of the Falkland shelf ecosystem: the role of Doryteuthis gahi as a keystone species and its trophic influences
Authors: Büring Tobias , van Der Grient Jesse , Pierce Graham , Bustamante Paco , Scotti Marco , Jones Jessica B. , Rocha Francisco , Arkhipkin Alexander
Published: February 2024

The Falkland Shelf is a highly productive ecosystem in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. It is characterized by upwelling oceanographic dynamics and displays a wasp-waist structure, with few intermediate trophic-level species and many top predators that migrate on the shelf for feeding. One of these resident intermediate trophic-level species, the Patagonian longfin-squid Doryteuthis gahi, is abundant and plays an important role in the ecosystem. We used two methods to estimate the trophic structure of the Falkland Shelf food web, focusing on the trophic niche of D. gahi and its impacts on other species and functional groups to highlight the importance of D. gahi in the ecosystem. First, stable isotope measurements served to calculate trophic levels based on an established nitrogen baseline. Second, an Ecopath model was built to corroborate trophic levels derived from stable isotopes and inform about trophic interactions of D. gahi with other functional groups. The results of both methods placed D. gahi in the centre of the ecosystem with a trophic level of ~ 3. The Ecopath model predicted high impacts and therefore a high keystoneness for both seasonal cohorts of D. gahi. Our results show that the Falkland Shelf is not only controlled by species feeding at the top and the bottom of the trophic chain. The importance of species feeding at the third trophic level (e.g. D. gahi and Patagonotothen ramsayi) and observed architecture of energy flows confirm the ecosystem's wasp-waist structure with middle-out control mechanisms at play.
Are propagandists combatants? Analysing the ethical status of propagandists in warfare
Authors: Robin Marie
Published: February 2024

Belligerents increasingly rely on media manipulation, propaganda, and communication to attain strategic advantages in conflict. Given the civilian propagandists’ clear role in creating tactical or strategic advantages for one side in the conflict, should these propagandists be considered combatants, and can they therefore be legitimately targeted because of their activities? This article overcomes traditional binary frameworks of distinction to argue that propagandists are indirectly participating civilians, i.e. participants who cannot be intentionally or directly killed in conflict. Because of their activities, propagandists, it argues, are liable to less-than-lethal harm, of which it identifies three types (destruction of property, privation of liberty, isolation). The article then proposes a necessary criterion – necessity – to decide if less-than-lethal harm is warranted against propagandists. It then creates four new criteria – denial of agency, falsehood, influence, gratification – to serve as assessment criteria able to decide what degree of harm a propagandist may maximally face. In making this argument, the article contributes to just war literature by proposing a novel way to evaluate the ethical status of a highly diverse, yet undoubtedly influential, category of war participants: those who undertake the ‘media battle’, outside of the military.
Elevated litterfall phosphorus reduces litter and soil organic matter pools in exotic-dominated novel forests in Singapore
Authors: Teo Aloysius , Evans Theodore A. , Chisholm Ryan A.
Published: February 2024

The estimation of leaf litter turnover is often limited to early-stage decomposition using unrepresentative models and litter types. In tropical secondary forests, particularly exotic-dominated novel forests, the characterisation of litter turnover remains poor. This study estimated the annual turnover ofin-situleaf litter across four forest successional types in Singapore using a Weibull residence time model. Litter turnover and nutrient dynamics diverged between young secondary and old-growth forests. In particular, within novel forests, annual phosphorus return via leaf litterfall was three times that of primary forests, while the mass loss ofin-situleaf litter was highest among all forest successional types, estimated at 92.8% annually with a mean residence time of 176 days, resulting in a litter pool size a third that of primary forests. Our findings suggest that tree species composition and species-specific effects shaped the observed variations in litter turnover and nutrient dynamics across forest successional types and forest stands, whereas tree species richness, canopy structure, soil nutrient levels, and microclimate were found to be non-predictors. Taken together, our study provides an insight into litter turnover in human-modified tropical landscapes increasingly characterised by novel forests, potentially leading to a reduction in surface litter and soil organic carbon pools.