bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastrodin alleviates premature senescence of vascular endothelial cells by enhancing the Nrf2/HO‐1 signalling pathway
Authors: Tong Pengfei , Tian Ke , Bi Jiajia , Wang Ruihua , Wang Zhengfeng
Published: December 2023

Endothelial dysfunction is an independent risk factor for stroke. The dysfunction of endothelial cells (EC) is closely concerned with EC senescence. Gastrodin (GAS) is an organic compound extracted from the dried root mass of the Orchidaceae plant Gastrodiae gastrodiae. It is used clinically to treat diseases such as vertebrobasilar insufficiency, vestibular neuronitis and vertigo. In the present study, we used hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) to establish an in vitro EC senescence model and to investigate the role and mechanism of GAS in EC senescence. It's found that H2O2‐treated HUVECs increased the proportion of senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA β‐gal) positive cells and the relative protein expression levels of senescence‐associated cyclin p16 and p21. In addition, GAS reduced the proportion of SA β‐gal positive cells and the relative protein expression levels of p16 and p21, and increased the proliferation and migration ability of HUVECs. Meanwhile, GAS increased the expression of the anti‐oxidative stress protein HO‐1 and its nuclear expression level of Nrf2. The anti‐senescence effect of GAS was blocked when HO‐1 expression was inhibited by SnPPIX. Furthermore, absence of HO‐1 abolished the effect of GAS on HUVEC proliferation and migration. In conclusion, GAS ameliorated H2O2‐induced cellular senescence and enhanced cell proliferation and migration by enhancing Nrf2/HO‐1 signalling in HUVECs. These findings of our study expanded the understanding of GAS pharmacology and suggested that GAS may offer a potential therapeutic agent for stroke.
Drug survival, effectiveness and safety of ixekizumab for moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis up to 5 years
Authors: Mastorino L. , Dapavo P. , Burzi L. , Rosset F. , Giunipero di Corteranzo I. , Leo F. , Verrone A. , Stroppiana E. , Ortoncelli M. , Ribero S. , Quaglino P.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Ixekizumab proved to be effective and safe for psoriasis treatment in several randomized clinical trials and real‐life studies. Nevertheless, long‐term real‐world experiences are still lacking, with little data up to 4 years of treatment.

Objectives

To analyse survival, effectiveness and safety of ixekizumab in a real‐life cohort of patients affected by moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis up to 260 weeks (5 years).

Methods

We included all patients treated with ixekizumab from December 2017 to March 2021. Drug survival (DS) was analysed in patients at risk for up to 5 years. Cox analysis was adopted to evaluate possible predictive factors of discontinuation. Psoriasis Area Severity Index (meanPASI and PASI100, 90, and ≤3) was used as outcomes of effectiveness on observed patients at 16, 52, 104, 156, 208 and 260 weeks. Logistic regression was performed to identify possible predictive factors of response.

Results

DS was 65.5% at 260 weeks, with being a super‐responder patient (achievement of PASI100 at 16 weeks and maintained at 28 weeks) correlated with less risk of discontinuation. PASI100, 90 and ≤3 was achieved by 54.1%, 60.5% and 73% of observed patients, respectively, at 16 weeks, and by 59.1%, 81.8% and 95.5%, respectively, at 260 weeks. High mean BMI was the only factor strongly associated with less achievement of the outcomes at the earlier time points: PASI100 at 16 weeks (OR 0.93, CI 0.87–0.98, p = 0.014) and at 104 weeks (OR 0.91, CI 0.84–0.98, p = 0.019), PASI90 achievement at 16 weeks (OR 0.94, CI 0.88–0.99, p = 0.028) and 104 weeks (OR 0.91, CI 0.83–0.99, p = 0.027), and PASI ≤3 (OR 0.86, CI 0.76–0.97, p = 0.018) at 104 weeks. No severe adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Ixekizumab showed high effectiveness and safety for up to 5 years, with survival of 2/3 of treated patients. Rapid response to treatment is predictive of long‐term response.
Increased occurrence of the rare golden color morph of Pacific chub Kyphosus sandwicensis in a no‐take marine reserve
Authors: Franklin Erik C. , Platt Madeleine T. , Andrade Pelika
Published: December 2023

Pacific chub, Kyphosus sandwicensis, are typically gray but some individuals display a golden color morph. We estimated that the frequency of occurrence of the golden morphs increased significantly from 2007 (1.9%) and 2012 (2.6%) to 2017 (5.0%) inside a no‐take marine reserve around Nihoa Island in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. While sporadic observations of a golden color morph have been noted for several other marine fish species, we provide a quantitative estimate of changes in the frequency of occurrence of the morph within a wild marine population.
Serum CXCL16: A new predictor of liver inflammation in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Wan Yawen , Mao Minxin , Li Ming , Liu Jiacheng , Tong Xin , Wang Jian , Li Jie , Yin Shengxia , Wu Chao
Published: December 2023

The prompt initiation of antiviral therapy is essential in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), especially when severe liver inflammation is detected. However, transcutaneous liver puncture, the gold standard for assessing liver inflammation, is invasive and its widespread application is limited. Therefore, there is an urgent need for more non‐invasive markers to predict liver inflammation. In our retrospective cross‐sectional study, which included 120 CHB patients and 31 healthy subjects, we observed a significant increase in serum chemokine C‐X‐C‐motif ligand 16 (CXCL16) in CHB patients compared to healthy controls (p < .001). Notably, patients with severe inflammation (Scheuer's grade G ≥ 3, n = 26) exhibited a substantial increase in serum CXCL16 compared to those with non‐severe inflammation (Scheuer's grade G < 3, n = 96) [(median, IQR), 0.42 (0.24–0.71) ng/mL vs. 1.01 (0.25–2.09) ng/mL, p < .001]. Furthermore, we developed a predictive model that combined CXCL16 with platelet count (PLT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and albumin (ALB) to accurately predict liver inflammation in CHB patients. This model was more effective than ALT alone in predicting liver inflammation (AUC, 0.92 vs. 0.81, p = .015). Additionally, using an HBV‐transduced mouse model, we demonstrated that blocking CXCL16 led to a reduction in liver inflammation and impaired infiltration and function of natural killer T (NKT) and natural killer (NK) cells. These findings suggest that CXCL16 is a promising non‐invasive biomarker of liver inflammation in CHB patients and may play a role in inducing liver inflammation via a NKT and NK cell pathway.
Design and development of robotic collaborative system for automated construction of reciprocal frame structures
Authors: Chea Cheav Por , Bai Yu , Zhou Zhuomin
Published: December 2023

Robotic technologies have shown their potential to improve efficiency, precision, and safety for construction tasks. In this paper, the concept of design for robotic construction (DfRC) is introduced, and robotic collaborative systems are developed for the construction of load‐carrying structures. An automated structural assembly was achieved and demonstrated through robotics with a preference for reciprocal frame (RF) structures. Key innovations include the use of magnetic temporary connections to minimize offsets of mobile robots and linear actuators as temporary supports during construction. Furthermore, specific procedures are formulated to navigate the robots and to target and install the components using a fiducial marker system and simultaneous localization and mapping packages, with consideration of structural deformation during construction due to self‐weight. The successful assembly of a 4.5‐m span RF structure demonstrates the potential of DfRC and the proposed robotic collaborative system in the automated construction of load‐carrying structures.
Impact of Graduating with Honours on Entry Wages of Economics Majors*
Authors: Atay Salim , Asik Gunes A. , Tumen Semih
Published: December 2023

Employers use various proxies to predict the future labour productivity levels of the job applicants. Success in school, especially in high‐level coursework, is among the most widely used proxies to screen entry‐level candidates. We estimate the causal effect of graduating with honours (i.e. with a grade point average of 3.00 and above out of 4.00) on the starting wages of economics majors in Türkiye. Using comprehensive micro data on all economics majors between 2014 and 2018, matched with administrative records about their first jobs, we implement a regression discontinuity analysis to investigate whether there is any statistically significant jump in the starting wages at the honours‐degree cutoff. We find that graduating with honours increases the wages of males, while there is no impact on females. We further document that the impact on males is almost entirely driven by the graduates of non‐elite universities. In particular, graduating with an honours degree increases the entry wages of males from non‐elite universities by about 4%, on average. We provide an explanation for these patterns using the theory of statistical discrimination. We discuss the potential reasons behind the heterogeneous signal value of graduating with honours between males vs. females and elite versus non‐elite university graduates.
Germ‐soma differentiation and reproduction in a new species of early Cambrian acritarch
Authors: Liu Wei , Yin Zongjun , Pan Bing , Shen Bing , Dong Lin , Li Guoxiang
Published: December 2023

As a significant evolutionary innovation, multicellularity has independently evolved multiple times throughout the evolutionary history of eukaryotes, making a substantial contribution to their diversity. In retracing the multicellularity of eukaryotes, deep‐time fossil records play an irreplaceable role. In this paper, we report a new acritarch Concavaesphaera ornata gen. et sp. nov. from the early Cambrian Kuanchuanpu biota (535 Ma). These fossils are generally spherical, with diameters ranging from 450 to 950 μm, and feature an envelope with complex ornament. Inside, there are two groups of cells varying in size. Larger cells are relatively fewer in number and each resides within a sac‐like cavity distributed along the inner wall of the envelope. Statistical data show a positive correlation between the diameter and cavity volume during the development of large cells. Small cells are numerous, have a diameter of about 15 μm, and fill the entire interior of the specimens. We interpret the large cells as reproductive cells and the small cells as somatic cells. These observations show that Concavaesphaera evolved multicellular complexity equivalent to that of modern Volvox, with germ‐soma differentiation and separation. Available evidence suggests that the similarities between Concavaesphaera and Volvox are more likely to be the result of convergent evolution. Therefore, Concavaesphaera may represent an extinct multicellular eukaryote which evolved during the Cambrian explosion and probably documented an independent innovation of multicellularity in eukaryotic evolutionary history. This implies that multicellularity evolved many more times in eukaryotes than previously estimated.
Characteristics of an ethnically diverse cohort of children with pediatric cutaneous mastocytosis: One institution's experience
Authors: Capellan Vasquez Evelyn , Cosper Arjola , Ferastraoaru Denisa
Published: December 2023

There has been limited research exploring how the demographic characteristics of children with pediatric cutaneous mastocytosis (PCM) may influence both the cutaneous and systemic symptoms. In this observational retrospective study of 51 children with PCM, we found a significantly higher rate of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in children of Hispanic ethnicity (4/21,19%) compared to non‐Hispanics (0/30, 0%, p = 0.024). While this finding may reflect the high proportion of Hispanics in our population, a racial predisposition toward distinct systemic symptoms may be possible. We also found a significantly lower proportion of Hispanic children being diagnosed with PCM under the age of 3 years (47.6%) when compared with non‐Hispanic children (76.7%, p = 0.03), suggesting that more data are needed to further assess the role of ethnicity and healthcare disparities in PCM diagnosis. Larger prospective studies are necessary to better evaluate the association between ethnicity, early diagnosis, and systemic symptoms in PCM and to describe its impact on long‐term outcomes.
Optimising commercial traits through gene editing in aquaculture: Strategies for accelerating genetic improvement
Authors: Moran Megan N. , Jones D. B. , Jensen S. A. , Marcoli R. , Jerry D. R.
Published: December 2023

Aquaculture is one of the fastest‐growing food production sectors. As the global human population continues to increase and further pressure is added to the prospects of achieving global food security, aquaculture is expected to play an integral role in meeting future nutrition demands. With advances in genetic technologies over recent years, much progress has been made within the realm of selective breeding. Despite success, selective breeding programs have limitations to the rate of genetic gain they can achieve. The incorporation of targeted genetic technologies, such as gene editing, into research related to selective breeding programs will help identify specific genes related to commercially desirable traits, as well as expedite genetic improvement. This review summarises research encompassing the most commonly targeted traits using gene editing within aquaculture, namely reproduction and development, pigmentation, growth and disease resistance. In addition, this review illustrates how the incorporation of gene editing can expedite genetic improvement through the rapid fixation of desirable alleles, as well as suggests strategies to accelerate genetic improvement for aquaculture production.
Determination of expression patterns of miR‐26a, and preimplantation factor levels for early pregnancy detection in nulliparous and multiparous cows
Authors: Olğaç Kemal Tuna , Yazlik Murat Onur , Özkan Hüseyin , Kaya Ufuk , Tirpan Mehmet Borga
Published: December 2023

For maximum productivity in a dairy farm, the earliest and the most accurate detection of pregnancy is essential. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of expression patterns of miR‐26a, and serum Preimplantation Factor (PIF) levels for pregnancy diagnosis during the early pregnancy in nulliparous and multiparous cows. A total of 60 cows (30 nulliparous and 30 multiparous Holstein cows) were enrolled in the study. Blood samples were collected for miR‐26a on days 8 and 16 (D8 and D16), and for the PIF on days 10 and 20 (D10 and D20) following insemination (D0). Pregnancies were determined by ultrasonography on the 28th day after insemination. Expression levels of miR‐26a determined by qPCR. PIF levels were assessed by using commercial ELISA kits. All data were analyzed by using the MIXED procedure of SPSS. The expression levels of miR‐26a were 6.64 folds higher on D16 in pregnant compared to non‐pregnant multiparous cows (p < .05). On D8 and D16, miR‐26a expression levels were found higher 13 folds in pregnant compared to non‐pregnant nulliparous cows (p < .05). Additionally, miR‐26a expressions were higher 5.42 folds (p < .05) on D8, 7.19 folds higher (p < .01) on D16 in pregnant nulliparous and multiparous cows, and were 6.30 folds higher (p < .001) on D8 and D16 according to non‐pregnant animals. PIF levels were greater in pregnant animals (p < .05). Analyzing miR‐26a on D8 might be considered as sufficient in nulliparous cows. Pregnancy detection in multiparous cows can be made on the 16th day with this method. Furthermore, PIF evaluations may be sufficient on D10 in multiparous cows. Besides, PIF levels and miR‐26a expression levels might be used safely in field conditions and clinical applications.
The psychometric properties of the Burnout Assessment Tool in Norway: A thorough investigation into construct‐relevant multidimensionality
Authors: De Beer Leon T. , Christensen Marit , Sørengaard Torhild A. , Innstrand Siw T. , Schaufeli Wilmar B.
Published: December 2023

Objective

The World Health Organization recognizes burnout as an occupational issue. Nevertheless, accurately identifying employee burnout remains a challenging task. To complicate matters, current measures of burnout have demonstrated limitations, prompting the development of the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT). Given these circumstances, conducting an in‐depth examination of the BAT's construct‐relevant multidimensionality is crucial.

Method

This study focuses on both the original 23‐item BAT and the short 12‐item version, using modern factor analytic methods to investigate reliability, validity, and measurement invariance in a representative sample from Norway (n = 493; 49.54% women).

Results

Our findings revealed that the bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling solution (burnout global factor and four specific burnout component factors) best explained the data for both BAT versions. All factors demonstrated adequate omega coefficients, with the global factor showing exceptional strength. Both BAT versions correlated highly with each other and with another burnout measure, suggesting convergent validity. Furthermore, both BAT versions achieved full (strict) measurement invariance based on gender. Finally, our results showed that burnout acts as a mediator in our proposed job demands–resources model as preliminary evidence of predictive validity.

Conclusions

The study validates the Burnout Assessment Tool in the Norwegian context. The study supports the reliability, validity, and unbiased nature of the tool across genders. The findings also reinforce the importance of job demands and resources, along with burnout as a key mediator, in understanding workplace dynamics in accordance with job demands–resources theory.
Negative affect related to door‐in‐the‐face strategy
Authors: Martinie Marie‐Amélie , Bordas Benjamin , Gil Sandrine
Published: December 2023

A full 46 years after the first study of the door‐in‐the‐face strategy (DITF), there is still a debate about the processes behind its effect. One relatively unexplored interpretation is the presence of negative affect related to large request refusal. We explored negative affect after large request refusal both explicitly (Experiment 1) and implicitly (Experiments 1 and 2). Participants were in a negative state after large request refusal (Experiment 1), and target request acceptance was a function of their emotional state (Experiment 2). Negative affect appears to play a role in acceptance of the target request in the door‐in‐the‐face strategy. However, this pattern of results was only observed when affect was measured implicitly. The findings shed new light on the DIFT, by taking into account the complexity of the interaction with emotion. The reasons why negative affect occurs after large request refusal are discussed.
Consistent covariances estimation for stratum imbalances under minimization method for covariate‐adaptive randomization
Authors: Zhao Zixuan , Song Yanglei , Jiang Wenyu , Tu Dongsheng
Published: December 2023

Pocock and Simon's minimization method is a popular approach for covariate‐adaptive randomization in clinical trials. Valid statistical inference with data collected under the minimization method requires the knowledge of the limiting covariance matrix of within‐stratum imbalances, whose existence is only recently established. In this work, we propose a bootstrap‐based estimator for this limit and establish its consistency, in particular, by Le Cam's third lemma. As an application, we consider in simulation studies adjustments to existing robust tests for treatment effects with survival data by the proposed estimator. It shows that the adjusted tests achieve a size close to the nominal level, and unlike other designs, the robust tests without adjustment may have an asymptotic size inflation issue under the minimization method.
Informational rents and the excessive entry theorem: The case of hidden action*
Authors: de Pinto Marco , Goerke Laszlo , Palermo Alberto
Published: December 2023

Entry in a homogeneous Cournot‐oligopoly is excessive if there is business‐stealing. These findings assume that production costs reduce profits and welfare equally. If firms pay informational rents due to frictions in the employer–employee relationship, production costs partly reflect transfers, which do not alter welfare directly. We investigate the excessive entry theorem in the presence of rents. We find that informational rents can invalidate the theorem. Rents reduce profits and deter entry into the market equilibrium, while the socially optimal number of firms is not affected directly. The rent effect becomes stronger the lower the number of firms and can overcompensate the business‐stealing externality. As an example, we model a hidden action problem in which employees have an informational advantage after signing the contract with the firm. Insufficient entry occurs if entry costs are sufficiently high because they lower the number of firms and raise informational rents.
Using synthetic control method to estimate the growth effects of economic liberalisation: Evidence from transition economies
Authors: Kantorowicz Jaroslaw , Spruk Rok
Published: December 2023

We examine the contribution of institutional reforms to economic growth. To this end, we distinguish between several classes of institutional reform in the approach to economic liberalisation. Based on a sample of 24 current and former transition economies for the period 1980–2016, we estimate the counterfactual scenarios related to each distinctive institutional approach to the economic liberalisation by making use of the synthetic control method. Our evidence uncovers notable contrasts in the long‐term effectiveness of designated policy approaches in recovering from the transitional recession. A variety of synthetic control estimates suggests that a sustained big bang approach (rapid reforms) appears to be the most effective approach, while an abortive and gradualist approach tends to produce a permanent breakdown of the growth trajectories relative to the estimated counterfactuals. The point estimates survive an extensive battery of placebo tests. By employing the same methodological tool kit, future research could examine the impact of transition reforms on other socio‐economic variables, such as the poverty rates, income inequalities, health and environmental outcomes.
The effect of obtaining EU citizenship in former transition economies on remittance flows
Authors: Pieroni Luca , Rossello Roig Melcior
Published: December 2023

We estimate the effect of the granting of European Union (EU) citizenship rights on the flow of remittances from Italy. We use the EU enlargements of 2007 and 2013 as natural experiments. The results show a negative impact on remittance flows. The effect of the 2007 EU enlargement shows how Romanian and Bulgarian citizens reduced the average annual amount of remittances by 1400 Euros per year per migrant. In the case of the 2013 EU enlargement, we find a smaller decrease of about 50 Euros per year per Croat. These results are consistent after a series of robustness checks. We analyse this decline in depth to the extent that remittances are an important source of monetary flows in transition economies. We find that both the change in the taxonomy of immigrants from the new Member States and the improvement of economic conditions in the country of origin after the EU accession provide suggestive evidence on plausible mechanisms behind our results.
Establishment and application of rural domestic sewage treatment evaluation system based on analytic hierarchy process
Authors: Chen Peng , Yu Zhiyuan , Deng Youhua , Li Shanghui , Zhu Dongfeng , Zhang Tao , Xu Dong
Published: December 2023

Although numerous rural domestic sewage treatment facilities are constructed with the aim of improving the rural environment, the actual treatment effect is still difficult to evaluate. In this study, an evaluation system of rural domestic sewage treatment was established based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model and a county in Zhejiang Province was selected as an example for empirical analysis. According to the results, planning issues have the greatest impact on rural sewage treatment, accounting for 56.8%, while equipment issues, personnel issues and management issues account for 27.3%, 9.7% and 6.2%, respectively. Also, the results demonstrated that terminal planning, location selection, treatment process selection and construction design should be paid attention to among the 11 secondary indicators. The establishment of the evaluation system clarifies the different influencing factors and weights during the operation of the completed facilities, which is conducive to the scientific and effective management of sewage treatment.
On the logarithmic derivative of characteristic polynomials for random unitary matrices
Authors: Ge Fan
Published: December 2023

Let be a random unitary matrix of size , distributed with respect to the Haar measure on . Let be the characteristic polynomial of . We prove that for close to the unit circle, can be approximated using zeros of very close to , with a typically controllable error term. This is an analogue of a result of Selberg for the Riemann zeta‐function. We also prove a mesoscopic central limit theorem for away from the unit circle, and this is an analogue of a result of Lester for zeta.
The Cheeger problem in abstract measure spaces
Authors: Franceschi Valentina , Pinamonti Andrea , Saracco Giorgio , Stefani Giorgio
Published: December 2023

We consider nonnegative ‐finite measure spaces coupled with a proper functional that plays the role of a perimeter. We introduce the Cheeger problem in this framework and extend many classical results on the Cheeger constant and on Cheeger sets to this setting, requiring minimal assumptions on the pair measure space perimeter. Throughout the paper, the measure space will never be asked to be metric, at most topological, and this requires the introduction of a suitable notion of Sobolev spaces, induced by the coarea formula with the given perimeter.
A quantitative Hasse principle for weighted quartic forms
Authors: Flores Daniel
Published: December 2023

We derive, via the Hardy–Littlewood method, an asymptotic formula for the number of integral zeros of a particular class of weighted quartic forms under the assumption of nonsingular local solubility. Our polynomials satisfy the condition that . Our conclusions improve on those that would follow from a direct application of the methods of Birch. For example, we show that in many circumstances the expected asymptotic formula holds when and .
Expedition 5300: limits of human adaptations in the highest city in the world
Authors: Champigneulle Benoit , Brugniaux Julien V. , Stauffer Emeric , Doutreleau Stéphane , Furian Michael , Perger Elisa , Pina Alessandra , Baillieul Sébastien , Deschamps Blandine , Hancco Ivan , Connes Philippe , Robach Paul , Pichon Aurélien , Verges Samuel
Published: December 2023

Exposure to chronic hypobaric hypoxia imposes a significant physiological burden to more than 80 million humans living above 2500 m throughout the world. Among them, 50 000 live in the world's highest city, La Rinconada, located at 5000–5300 m in southern Peru. Expedition 5300 is the first scientific and medical programme led in La Rinconada to investigate the physiological adaptations and altitude‐related health issues in this unique population. Dwellers from La Rinconada have very high haemoglobin concentration (20.3 ± 2.4 g/dL; n = 57) and those with chronic mountain sickness (CMS) exhibit even higher concentrations (23.1 ± 1.7 g/dL; n = 150). These values are associated with large total haemoglobin mass and blood volume, without an associated iron deficit. These changes in intravascular volumes lead to a substantial increase in blood viscosity, which is even larger in CMS patients. Despite these large haematological changes, 24 h blood pressure monitoring is essentially normal in La Rinconada, but some results suggest impaired vascular reactivity. Echocardiography revealed large right heart dilatation and high pulmonary arterial pressure as well as left ventricle concentric remodelling and grade I diastolic dysfunction. These changes in heart dimension and function tend to be more severe in highlanders with CMS. Polygraphy evaluations revealed a large reduction in nocturnal pulse oxygen saturation (median SpO2 = 79%), which is even more severe in CMS patients who also tended to show a higher oxygen desaturation index. The population of La Rinconada offers a unique opportunity to investigate the human responses to chronic severe hypoxia, at an altitude that is probably close to the maximum altitude human beings can permanently tolerate without presenting major health issues.

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Single-photon-based clock analysis and recovery in quantum key distribution
Authors: Zahidy M. , Ribezzo D. , Müller R. , Riebesehl J. , Zavatta A. , Galili M. , Oxenløwe L. K. , Bacco D.
Published: December 2023

Quantum key distribution is one of the first quantum technologies ready for the market. Current quantum telecommunication systems usually utilize a service channel for synchronizing the transmitter (Alice) and the receiver (Bob). However, the possibility of removing this service channel and exploiting a clock recovery method are intriguing for future implementation, both in fiber and free-space links. In this paper, we investigate criteria to recover the clock in a quantum communication scenario and experimentally demonstrated the possibility of using a quantum-based clock recovery system in a time-bin quantum key distribution protocol. The performance of the clock recovery technique, in terms of quantum bit error rate and secret key rate, is equivalent to using the service channel for clock sharing.
Determination of the Bow Winding Material’s Nature from the Burial Ground of the Scythian Time Saryg-Bulun (Central Tuva)
Authors: Loboda A. Yu. , Pozhidaev V. M. , Busova V. S. , Malakhov S. N. , Kilunovskaya M. E. , Semenov V. A. , Tereschenko E. Yu. , Yatsishina E. B.
Published: December 2023

The results of studying the bow-winding material from mound 2, burial 5, at the Saryg-Bulun burial ground (Central Tuva, Russia) of the Aldy-Bel culture dated to the end of the 7th–beginning of the 6th centuries BC are presented. According to the first publication and the assumptions of archaeologists, the winding could be of animal origin; however, in recent years, this argument has been challenged due to similar finds of plant origin. Studies using infrared (IR) spectroscopy and chromatography show that the winding material for the arms of the ancient bow was fish skin.
Does mobile renewal make health insurance more responsive to clients? A case study of the National Health Insurance Scheme in Ghana
Authors: Akweongo Patricia , Gadeka Dominic Dormenyo , Aryeetey Genevieve , Sumboh Jemima , Aheto Justice Moses K , Aikins Moses
Published: December 2023

Background

In 2018, Ghana’s National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) introduced a mobile strategy to enhance re-enrolment and improve client knowledge of their entitlements. This study investigated how Ghana’s mobile strategy has influenced the NHIA’s responsiveness to clients in terms of patient rights and entitlements, equity and satisfaction with health services.

Methods

We surveyed people (n=1700) in 6 districts who had renewed their insurance in the previous 12 months, using any strategy (mobile or manual). Multiple regression analysis examined correlation between individual characteristics and renewal modality. Policy documents on the mobile programme’s design and focus group discussions (n=12) on people’s experiences renewing their insurance were analysed thematically.

Results

While the mobile platform was designed for mobile National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) renewal and to provide information about insurance entitlements, few people surveyed (20%) knew about these informational features. Among those who renewed their NHIS coverage, 58% did so on the mobile renewal platform. Mobile renewal was high among those with tertiary education and those in the higher wealth quintiles. Mobile renewal was considered convenient, but required literacy in English, a phone and a mobile money wallet. For those who lacked some or all of these prerequisites but wanted to use mobile renewal, mobile vendors emerged as valued facilitators.

Conclusion

The mobile platform has increased the responsiveness of Ghana’s NHIS through offering clients a more convenient mechanism to renew their insurance policies. It does not, however, eliminate the one month waiting period for activating the card, does not provide prompts to reassure clients of their renewal and does not empower most clients with information on entitlements. To improve the adoption and use of the mobile renewal strategy, the NHIA should publicise the platform’s information-sharing functions and explore formally engaging mobile vendors.
Safeguarding HIV prevention and care services amidst military conflict: experiences from Ukraine
Authors: Lopatina Yaroslava , Żakowicz Anna Maria , Shabarova Zoya , Ford Terri , Fonseca Fernanda F , Odoke Wilfred , van den Hombergh Jan , Avelino-Silva Vivian I , Benzaken Adele Schwartz , Miles Ralph C
Published: December 2023

Ukraine stands out among European countries concerning HIV epidemiological data. Since February 2022, the military conflict with Russian forces has posed unprecedented challenges to HIV prevention and care. AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), a global non-profit organisation with operations in Ukraine since 2009, implemented a preparedness plan to protect staff members and support local facilities in the continuity of care throughout the war. In this manuscript, we describe the strategies adopted by AHF to anticipate the risk of military conflict, steps to implement a preparedness plan, main challenges faced by local staff members and managers, adaptations needed as the conflict evolved, and indicators of HIV care 1 year before and 1 year after the onset of the conflict. Our experience shows that safeguarding the organisation’s human resources has been a prerequisite to sustain services throughout the war.
Predictors of outcome in patients with moderate mixed aortic valve disease
Authors: Patel Kush P , McKenna Michael , Thornton George D , Vandermolen Sebastian , Abdulelah Zaid Ali , Awad Wael , Baumbach Andreas , Mathur Anthony , Treibel Thomas A , Lloyd Guy , Mullen Michael J , Bhattacharyya Sanjeev
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Grading the severity of moderate mixed aortic stenosis and regurgitation (MAVD) is challenging and the disease poorly understood. Identifying markers of haemodynamic severity will improve risk stratification and potentially guide timely treatment. This study aims to identify prognostic haemodynamic markers in patients with moderate MAVD.

Methods

Moderate MAVD was defined as coexisting moderate aortic stenosis (aortic valve area (AVA) 1.0–1.5 cm2) and moderate aortic regurgitation (vena contracta (VC) 0.3–0.6 cm). Consecutive patients diagnosed between 2015 and 2019 were included from a multicentre registry. The primary composite outcome of death or heart failure hospitalisation was evaluated among these patients. Demographics, comorbidities, echocardiography and treatment data were assessed for their prognostic significance.

Results

207 patients with moderate MAVD were included, aged 78 (66–84) years, 56% male sex, AVA 1.2 (1.1–1.4) cm2and VC 0.4 (0.4–0.5) cm. Over a follow-up of 3.5 (2.5–4.7) years, the composite outcome was met in 89 patients (43%). Univariable associations with the primary outcome included older age, previous myocardial infarction, previous cerebrovascular event, atrial fibrillation, New York Heart Association >2, worse renal function, tricuspid regurgitation ≥2 and mitral regurgitation ≥2. Markers of biventricular systolic function, cardiac remodelling and transaortic valve haemodynamics demonstrated an inverse association with the primary composite outcome. In multivariable analysis, peak aortic jet velocity (Vmax) was independently and inversely associated with the composite outcome (HR: 0.63, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.93; p=0.021) in an adjusted model along with age (HR: 1.05, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.08; p<0.001), creatinine (HR: 1.002, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.003; p=0.005), previous cerebrovascular event (85% vs 42%; HR: 3.04, 95% CI 1.54 to 5.99; p=0.001) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (HR: 0.97, 95% CI 0.95 to 0.99; p=0.007). Patients with Vmax ≤2.8 m/s and LVEF ≤50% (n=27) had the worst outcome compared with the rest of the population (72% vs 41%; HR: 3.87, 95% CI 2.20 to 6.80; p<0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with truly moderate MAVD have a high incidence of death and heart failure hospitalisation (43% at 3.5 (2.5–4.7) years). Within this group, a high-risk group characterised by disproportionately low aortic Vmax (≤2.8 m/s) and adverse remodelling (LVEF ≤50%) have the worst outcomes.
Postdischarge major bleeding, myocardial infarction, and mortality risk after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Björklund Erik , Enström Philip , Nielsen Susanne J , Tygesen Hans , Martinsson Andreas , Hansson Emma C , Lindgren Martin , Malm Carl-Johan , Pivodic Aldina , Jeppsson Anders
Published: December 2023

Objective

To investigate the incidence and mortality risk associated with postdischarge major bleeding after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), and relate this to the incidence of, and mortality risk from, postdischarge myocardial infarction.

Methods

All patients undergoing first-time isolated CABG in Sweden in 2006–2017 and surviving 14 days after hospital discharge were included in a cohort study. Individual patient data from the SWEDEHEART Registry and five other mandatory nationwide registries were merged. Piecewise Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate associations between major bleeding, defined as hospitalisation for bleeding, with subsequent mortality risk. Similar Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the association between postdischarge myocardial infarction and mortality risk.

Results

Among 36 633 patients, 2429 (6.6%) had a major bleeding event and 2231 (6.1%) had a myocardial infarction. Median follow-up was 6.0 (range 0–11) years. Major bleeding was associated with higher mortality risk <30 days (adjusted HR (aHR)=20.2 (95% CI 17.3 to 23.5)), 30–365 days (aHR=3.8 (95% CI 3.4 to 4.3)) and >365 days (aHR=1.8 (95% CI 1.7 to 2.0)) after the event. Myocardial infarction was associated with higher mortality risk <30 days (aHR=20.0 (95% CI 16.7 to 23.8)), 30–365 days (aHR=4.1 (95% CI 3.6 to 4.8)) and >365 days (aHR=1.8 (95% CI 1.7 to 2.0)) after the event.

Conclusions

The increase in mortality risk associated with a postdischarge major bleeding after CABG is substantial and is similar to the mortality risk associated with a postdischarge myocardial infarction.
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and cardiovascular disease risk: a Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Tschiderer Lena , van der Schouw Yvonne T , Burgess Stephen , Bloemenkamp Kitty W M , Seekircher Lisa , Willeit Peter , Onland-Moret Charlotte , Peters Sanne A E
Published: December 2023

Objective

Observational studies show that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) are related to unfavourable maternal cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk profiles later in life. We investigated whether genetic liability to pre-eclampsia/eclampsia and gestational hypertension is associated with CVD risk factors and occurrence of CVD events.

Methods

We obtained genetic associations with HDPs from a genome-wide association study and used individual participant data from the UK Biobank to obtain genetic associations with CVD risk factors and CVD events (defined as myocardial infarction or stroke). In our primary analysis, we applied Mendelian randomisation using inverse-variance weighted regression analysis in ever pregnant women. In sensitivity analyses, we studied men and nulligravidae to investigate genetic liability to HDPs and CVD risk without the ability to experience the underlying phenotype.

Results

Our primary analysis included 221 155 ever pregnant women (mean age 56.8 (SD 7.9) years) with available genetic data. ORs for CVD were 1.20 (1.02 to 1.41) and 1.24 (1.12 to 1.38) per unit increase in the log odds of genetic liability to pre-eclampsia/eclampsia and gestational hypertension, respectively. Furthermore, genetic liability to HDPs was associated with higher levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure and younger age at hypertension diagnosis. Sensitivity analyses revealed no statistically significant differences when comparing the findings with those of nulligravidae and men.

Conclusions

Genetic liability to HDPs is associated with higher CVD risk, lower blood pressure levels and earlier hypertension diagnosis. Our study suggests similar findings in ever pregnant women, nulligravidae and men, implying biological mechanisms relating to HDPs are causally related to CVD risk.
Effects of flavour and modified risk claims on nicotine pouch perceptions and use intentions among young adults who use inhalable nicotine and tobacco products: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Vogel Erin A , Tackett Alayna P , Unger Jennifer B , Gonzalez Maria J , Peraza Natalia , Jafarzadeh Nikki S , Page Michelle K , Goniewicz Maciej L , Wong Melissa , Leventhal Adam M
Published: December 2023

Background

Availability of flavours and potential modified risk tobacco product (MRTP) claims may influence young adults’ (YAs’) perceptions of and intentions to use nicotine pouches (‘pouches’).

Methods

YAs aged 21–34 years (N=47,Mage=24.5,SD=3.1) with past-month nicotine/tobacco use (10.6% cigarette-only, 51.1% e-cigarette-only, 38.3% dual use) and no intention to quit were randomised to self-administer four Zyn 3 mg nicotine pouches in a 4 (flavour; within-subjects: smooth, mint, menthol, citrus) × 2 (MRTP claim on packaging; between subjects: present or absent) mixed-factorial design. After self-administering each pouch, participants reported appeal, use intentions and perceived harm compared with cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Three mixed-factorial analysis of variances (ANOVAs) examined main and interactive effects of flavour and MRTP claim on appeal, use intentions and comparative harm perceptions.

Results

Mint (M=55.9,SD=26.4), menthol (M=49.7,SD=26.8) and citrus (M=46.6,SD=24.8) flavours were significantly more appealing than smooth (M=37.6,SD=25.4; p<0.001). MRTP claim did not significantly affect product appeal (p=0.376). Use intentions were greater for mint (M=2.6,SD=1.3) and menthol (M=2.0,SD=1.1) flavours than smooth (M=1.8,SD=1.0; p=0.002). Flavour did not affect comparative harm perceptions (p values>0.418). MRTP claims increased use intention (p=0.032) and perceptions of pouches as less harmful than cigarettes (p=0.011), but did not affect perceived harm relative to e-cigarettes (p=0.142). Flavour × MRTP claim interactions were not significant.

Conclusions

Flavoured (vs smooth) pouches were more appealing to YAs. MRTP claims reduced perceived harm of pouches compared with cigarettes; however, intentions to switch were low. To protect YAs’ health, regulatory restrictions could target flavours and MRTP claims.
Climate Investment in China and the United States: Political, Monetary and Technological Drivers
Authors: YARROW Richard , CHEN Gang
Published: December 2023

China and the United States have seen expeditious investment growth in renewable energy and climate-related industries. Due to differences in political environments and governance structures, monetary settings, and prevailing market technologies and geographic conditions, the two countries demonstrate varied strengths and weaknesses in promoting climate investment. Both countries can learn from each other’s distinctive strengths and weaknesses to identify potential opportunities both for domestic climate programmes and energy cooperation to jointly pursue pathways to achieve net zero carbon footprints.
The Marcos Administration’s Foreign Policy towards the Great Powers: Seeking the Elusive Balance in Dealing a Changing Indo-Pacific Region
Authors: DE CASTRO Renato Cruz
Published: December 2023

This article examines the Marcos administration’s efforts to seek the elusive balance in managing its relations with the United States, China and Japan. At the beginning of his term, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr planned a balanced foreign policy marked by China providing the investments and market for the Philippines while the United States extended its security guarantee. In conclusion, the article argues that Marcos Jr’s foreign policy reflects the Philippines’ acumen in practising ASEAN’s age-old and proven statecraft in dealing with the significant powers that require the smaller Southeast Asian countries to accept the presence of big powers in Southeast Asia as a fact of international relations.
The Rise, Fall and (Potential) Rise Again of East Asian Middle Powers
Authors: HOWE Brendan M
Published: December 2023

Middle powers have been defined in hierarchical and behavioural terms. They have significantly impacted on the global governance agenda, especially through their leadership within international commissions and through multilateral forums. Recent challenges to multilateralism have created an impression that the middle power moment is over, especially in East Asia. Yet, this article sees a way forward for the stronger, more regionally focused middle powers to continue to influence international governance.
Viscous Behavior of Fluids in the Eyes of Adults: A Global Survey
Authors: Feser Markus Sebastian , Krumphals Ingrid
Published: December 2023

The viscous behavior of fluids can be observed in numerous everyday situations. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that people, since they are usually not specialists in fluids’ flow behavior, possess naïve conceptions about the viscous behavior of fluids. These conceptions more or less deviate from corresponding scientific explanations. Qualitative studies with preschool children and secondary school students from Germany have already identified various naïve conceptions about the viscous behavior of fluids (e.g. that the density or stickiness of a substance explains its viscous behavior). Within the present study, we explore the question of whether similar naïve conceptions can also be found among adults around the globe. To this end, based on previous research, an online questionnaire was developed to survey adults worldwide regarding their naïve conceptions about the viscous behavior of fluids. The survey was conducted anonymously, online, and voluntarily in spring 2023; participants were recruited via SurveySwap. A total of 406 adults from all regions of the world (primarily Europe and North America) participated in the survey. In this paper, we report and discuss the main findings of this online survey.
A Letter on the International Science Youth Forum: Celebrating a Community of Young Science Talents that Connects, Collaborates and Communicates
Authors: Tan Yong Leng Kelvin
Published: December 2023

The nurturing of top young science talents remains vital in helping to mitigate current and future global challenges. Written in the form of a letter, this paper chronicles the major activities of the International Science Youth Forum, an annual event held in Singapore where top young science talents from across the world have the opportunity to interact with Nobel Laureates and other eminent scientists. Reflections of the student and educators who participated in this event are also documented, and it is hoped that their experiences can pave the way for other similar activities to be organized worldwide.