bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effects of butorphanol in oleic acid-endotoxin “two-hit” induced rat lung injury by suppression of inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: Zheng Yanlei , Hu Ronghua , Hu Jinrong , Feng Lina , Li Shi
Published: June 2024

Butorphanol is widely used as an anesthetic drug, whether butorphanol could reduce organ injury and protecting lung tissue is unknown. This study explored the effects of butorphanol on ALI and investigated its underlying mechanisms. We established a “two-hit” rat model and “two-hit” cell model to prove our hypothesis. Rats were divided into four groups [control, “two-hit” (OA + LPS), “two-hit” + butorphanol (4 mg/kg and 8 mg/kg) (OA + LPS + B1 and OA + LPS + B2)]. RPMVE cells were divided into four groups [control, “two-hit” (OA + LPS), “two-hit” + butorphanol (4 μM and 8 μM) (OA + LPS + 4 μM and OA + LPS + 8 μM)]. Inflammatory injury was assessed by the histopathology and W/D ratio, inflammatory cytokines, and arterial blood gas analysis. Apoptosis was assessed by Western blotting and flow cytometry. The effect of NF-κB p65 was detected by ELISA. Butorphanol could relieve the “two-hit” induced lung injury, the expression of TNF, IL-1β, IL-6, and improve lung ventilation. In addition, butorphanol decreased Bax and cleaved caspase-3, increased an antiapoptotic protein (Bcl-2), and inhibited the “two-hit” cell apoptosis ratio. Moreover, butorphanol suppressed NF-κB p65 activity in rat lung injury. Our research showed that butorphanol may attenuate “two-hit”-induced lung injury by regulating the activity of NF-κB p65, which may supply more evidence for ALI treatment.
The effect of mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium incorporated within chitosan nanostructure in clearance of common gastroenteritis bacteria in-vitro and in-vivo
Authors: Bagheri-Josheghani Sareh , Saffari Mahmood , Radaei Tooba , Mirzaei Hamed , Rashki Somaye , Fatemi-Nasab Zahra Sadat , Derakhshan-nezhad Elahe , Bakhshi Bita
Published: June 2024

Gastroenteritis infection is a major public health concern worldwide, especially in developing countries due to the high annual mortality rate. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of human mesenchymal stem cell-derived conditioned medium (hMSCsCM) encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs) was studied in vitro and in vivo against common gastroenteritis bacteria. The synthesized ChNPs were characterized using Zeta potential, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. HMSC-derived conditioned medium incorporated into chitosan NPs (hMSCsCM-ChNPs) composite was fabricated by chitosan nanoparticles loaded with BM-MSCs (positive for CD73 and CD44 markers). The antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of composite was investigated against four common gastroenteritis bacteria (Campylobacter jejuni ATCC29428, Salmonella enteritidis ATCC13076, Shigella dysenteriae PTCC1188, and E. coli ATCC25922) in-vitro and in-vivo. Majority of ChNPs (96%) had an average particle size of 329 nm with zeta potential 7.08 mV. The SEM images confirmed the synthesis of spherical shape for ChNPs and a near-spherical shape for hMSCsCM-ChNPs. Entrapment efficiency of hMSCsCM-ChNPs was 75%. Kinetic profiling revealed that the release rate of mesenchymal stem cells was reduced following the pH reduction. The antibacterial activity of hMSCsCM-ChNPs was significantly greater than that of hMSCsCM and ChNPs at dilutions of 1:2 to 1:8 (P < 0.05) against four common gastroenteritis bacteria. The number of bacteria present decreased more significantly in the group of mice treated with the hMSCsCM-ChNPs composite than in the groups treated with hMSCsCM and ChNPs. The antibacterial activity of hMSCsCM against common gastroenteritis bacteria in an in vivo assay decreased from > 106 CFU/ml to approximately (102 to 10) after 72 h. Both in vitro and in vivo assays demonstrated the antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities of ChNPs at a concentration of 0.1% and hMSCsCM at a concentration of 1000 μg/ml to be inferior to that of hMSCsCM-ChNPs (1000 μg/ml + 0.1%) composite. These results indicated the existence of a synergistic effect between ChNPs and hMSCsCM. The designed composite exhibited notable antibiofilm and antibacterial activities, demonstrating optimal release in simulated intestinal lumen conditions. The utilization of this composite is proposed as a novel treatment approach to combat gastroenteritis bacteria in the context of more challenging infections.
The impact of COVID-19 on microRNA and CD marker expression in AML patients
Authors: Saeed Rastee H. , Abdulrahman Zirak Faqe Ahmed , Mohammad Dara K.
Published: June 2024

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is an aggressive leukaemia characterised by uncontrolled blast cell proliferation. miRNAs and Clusters of Differentiation (CD) molecules play essential roles in AML progression. This study aims to investigate the effect of COVID-19 on the expression of circulating miRNA and CD molecules in AML. This cross-sectional study recruited 32 AML patients and 20 controls. Blood samples were collected and analysed using molecular cytogenetic, miRNA/mRNA expression, and flow cytometry techniques. The expression of miRNAs varied significantly between patients with AML and control individuals. The co-expression of these miRNAs was higher (P < 0.05), indicating that the presence of one miRNA led to increased expression of other miRNAs. A differential correlation was observed between miRNAs and CD markers. Additionally, miRNA 16, miRNA 21, and miRNA 221 showed significant downregulation (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively) in AML patients with COVID-19 infection compared to those without a disease. Interestingly, this study identified a higher expression level (P < 0.01) of miRNA 137 as a novel biomarker for AML patients. Moreover, the expression of miRNA 137 showed a high correlation (P < 0.05) with most of the CD markers examined in this study and FISH features data. Furthermore, a strong correlation (P < 0.01) was observed between CD markers and miRNA among AML patients with positive and negative COVID-19 infection. These data demonstrated that COVID-19 contributed to increased expression of microRNAs in AML patients. MicroRNA 137 was identified as a novel microRNA that exhibited significant differences between patients and healthy individuals, highlighting its role in AML pathogenesis.
Improving difficult direct laryngoscopy prediction using deep learning and minimal image analysis: a single-center prospective study
Authors: Kim Jong-Ho , Jung Hee-Sun , Lee So-Eun , Hou Jong-Uk , Kwon Young-Suk
Published: June 2024

Accurate prediction of difficult direct laryngoscopy (DDL) is essential to ensure optimal airway management and patient safety. The present study proposed an AI model that would accurately predict DDL using a small number of bedside pictures of the patient’s face and neck taken simply with a smartphone. In this prospective single-center study, adult patients scheduled for endotracheal intubation under general anesthesia were included. Patient pictures were obtained in frontal, lateral, frontal-neck extension, and open mouth views. DDL prediction was performed using a deep learning model based on the EfficientNet-B5 architecture, incorporating picture view information through multitask learning. We collected 18,163 pictures from 3053 patients. After under-sampling to achieve a 1:1 image ratio of DDL to non-DDL, the model was trained and validated with a dataset of 6616 pictures from 1283 patients. The deep learning model achieved a receiver operating characteristic area under the curve of 0.81–0.88 and an F1-score of 0.72–0.81 for DDL prediction. Including picture view information improved the model’s performance. Gradient-weighted class activation mapping revealed that neck and chin characteristics in frontal and lateral views are important factors in DDL prediction. The deep learning model we developed effectively predicts DDL and requires only a small set of patient pictures taken with a smartphone. The method is practical and easy to implement.
Effect of tissue tension on magnetic compression anastomosis of digestive tract
Authors: Zhang Miaomiao , Ma Jia , Shi Aihua , Gong Ruimin , Zhao Xuhe , Zhong Qiuye , Shen Linxin , Lyu Yi , Yan Xiaopeng
Published: June 2024

With the increasing application of magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) in gastrointestinal anastomosis, we identified an interesting phenomenon that an anastomosis is more prone to stenosis after endoscopic gastrointestinal MCA. We hypothesized that the increase in tissue tension during endoscopic procedures is the cause of anastomotic stenosis. In this study, we investigated the effect of tissue tension on gastroduodenal bypass MCA in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. Twenty SD rats were divided into the study group (high-tension group, n = 10) and control group (no tension group, n = 10), wherein the rats underwent complete gastroduodenal bypass magnetic anastomosis under high tension and no tension of the digestive tract, respectively. Anastomotic specimens were obtained 4 weeks after the operation, and anastomotic diameters of the two groups were observed and measured. The histological difference was observed by hematoxylin & eosin and Masson staining. The operation was successfully completed in all rats, and all survived until 4 weeks postoperatively. Anastomotic measurements revealed that the anastomosis diameter was significantly smaller in the study group than in the control group, and there were three cases of severe anastomotic stenosis. Histological observation showed that the amount of collagen fibers in the anastomosis was greater in the study group than in the control group. The results suggest that the high-tension state of the digestive tract is an important factor leading to anastomotic stenosis, and thus, we put forward the Yan-Zhang’s Tissue Tension Theory of MCA to explain this phenomenon.
The role of social capital in the impact of multiple shocks on households’ coping strategies in underdeveloped rural areas
Authors: Yang Yuying , Huang Yanfang , Huang Jiaqi , Nie Fengying
Published: June 2024

Social capital has long been recognized as a facilitator of socio-economic development. However, the role of social capital in enhancing resilience to multiple shocks in rural China remains insufficiently explored. This study focus on the resilience of households that have recently get rid of poverty and reside in underdeveloped rural areas of China. Unlike previous studies, the article incorporates multiple shocks, social capital, and households’ coping strategies into a research framework at the micro level. This study systematically analyses the multiple shocks experienced by households, their coping strategies, and further explores the mediating role of social capital. Utilizing two waves of a rural household panel survey data collected in six underdeveloped counties in 2015 and 2018 in China, we present four key findings. Currently, households primarily contend with drought, illness of family members, and the high costs of agricultural inputs as the main shocks. Their predominant coping strategy is reducing consumption. Importantly, social capital exhibits a mediating effect, accounting for 9.8% of the impact of multiple shocks on households’ coping strategies. Notably, natural disasters significantly diminish the informal functions of social capital. While social capital exerts a full mediating effect in non-agricultural households, this effect is not observed among others. This study contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics and specificities of social capital in vulnerable rural areas. Additionally, the findings provide policymakers with practical insights regarding differentiated and preemptive risk governance approaches.
A prominent role of LncRNA H19 in H. pylori CagA induced DNA damage response and cell malignancy
Authors: He Xiaofeng , Huang Tingting , Wang Qinrong , Bao Liya , Wang Zhengrong , Song Hui , Li Yanhong , Zhou Jianjiang , Zhao Yan , Xie Yuan
Published: June 2024

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), together with its CagA, has been implicated in causing DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, and the development of gastric cancer. Although lncRNA H19 is abundantly expressed in gastric cancer and functions as a pro-oncogene, it remains unclear whether lncRNA H19 contributes to the oncogenic process of H. pylori CagA. This study investigates the role of H19 in the DNA damage response and malignancy induced by H. pylori. It was observed that cells infected with CagA+H. pylori strain (GZ7/cagA) showed significantly higher H19 expression, resulting in increased γH2A.X and p-ATM expression and decreased p53 and Rad51 expression. Faster cell migration and invasion was also observed, which was reversed by H19 knockdown in H. pylori. YWHAZ was identified as an H19 target protein, and its expression was increased in H19 knockdown cells. GZ7/cagA infection responded to the increased YWHAZ expression induced by H19 knockdown. In addition, H19 knockdown stimulated cells to enter the G2-phase and attenuated the effect of GZ7/cagA infection on the cellular S-phase barrier. The results suggest that H. pylori CagA can upregulate H19 expression, participate in the DNA damage response and promote cell migration and invasion, and possibly affect cell cycle arrest via regulation of YWHAZ.
Correction: Recent trends on the application of phytochemical-based compounds as additives in the fabrication of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Chepngetich Naomy , Mumbi Gloria M. , Meheretu M. Getnet , Richard Koech K. , Yegon Geoffrey K. , Chepkwony Sarah C. , Rono K. Charles , Sanni Dahiru , Bello Abdulhakeem , Ntsoenzok Esidor
Published: June 2024

Correction for ‘Recent trends on the application of phytochemical-based compounds as additives in the fabrication of perovskite solar cells’ by Naomy Chepngetich et al., Energy Adv., 2024, 3, 741–764, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00025K.
A Comparison of the Efficacy of Four Repositioning Maneuvers in the Treatment of Posterior Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Valsted Sebastian Satkunasingam , Larsen Andreas Thesbjerg , Callesen Henriette Edemann , Hougaard Dan Dupont
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of the present review was to report the effectiveness of Epley maneuver compared to other manual repositioning maneuvers (RM) for treatment of posterior benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (P-BPPV). A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted up until June 30, 2023.

Results:

Primary outcomes focused on complete resolution of vertiginous symptoms measured by either a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) or the Dix–Hallpike (DH) test. Secondary outcomes included conversion of a positive DH test to a negative DH test exclusively looking at positional nystagmus and assessment of side effects (cervical/back pain, posttreatment dizziness, and nausea). Both outcomes were assessed within a maximum of 4-week follow-up. Following systematic search and review, nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs;
p
= .413) were found. The studies reported on the effectiveness of the Epley maneuver compared to three other specific RM: Semont, Li, and Gans maneuvers. Results revealed a low to very low certainty of evidence. With the primary outcomes, Epley maneuver was superior to Gans maneuver 24-hr posttreatment but not after 1 week. No significant differences were found between the remaining maneuvers.

Conclusions:

In summary, evidence of low to very low certainty indicates that Epley maneuver is comparable with Semont, Gans, and Li maneuvers for vertiginous symptoms in patients with P-BPPV. Further high-quality studies are needed.
Source depth estimation based on the higher‐order sound field in the deep ocean
Authors: Sun Dajun , Wang Zehua , Shi Junjie , Liang Minshuai , Chen Yi
Published: June 2024

Lloyd's mirror effect is a spatial interference phenomenon that results from the coherent combination of direct and surface‐reflected propagation paths. The higher‐order vertical sound intensities of the interference sound field contain source depth information, and the relationship between these higher‐order sound intensities can be employed to estimate the source depth. A method for source depth estimation and qualitative binary source depth discrimination using the 0th‐order sound pressure, as well as the 1st‐ and 2nd‐order sound intensities, was proposed. The numerical simulation results confirmed the ability of the proposed method to approximate the source depth and discriminate between surface and submerged sources without requiring long‐term tracking or knowledge of the ocean environment.
Forecasting business risk in organic walnut production
Authors: Georgiev Georgi , Radukanov Sergey
Published: June 2024

The study presents a model for forecasting business risk in organic walnut production. For this purpose, a technology from financial risk management known as cash flow at risk in its variant “Top-Down approach” was adopted. Empirical data from the electronic register of organic farming in Bulgaria were used. A detailed analysis of the organic walnut production sector was made regarding the surface in hectares and the production distribution. The empirical distribution of the area of organic nuts in hectares in Bulgaria shows that small farmers predominate in 2023, with up to 6 hectares representing 55% of all, and those up to 12 hectares are a share of 78%, with the average production per farm will be 1376.53 kg.
The specifics of the problem of working poverty in the context of food security
Authors: Khussainova Zhibek , Yeskendir Nesip , Penev Nikolay , Nencheva Iskra
Published: June 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the relationship between issues of food security and the problem of poverty, in particular, the poverty of the working population. The main features of poverty in Kazakhstan are identified and the factors that form the poverty of the working-age population are considered. Based on the analysis of the sectoral structure of employment, conclusions are drawn about the increased risk of spreading working poverty among the population of the Republic of Kazakhstan due to unemployment, reduced working hours, low labor productivity, the influx of labor resources in industries with low added value and low wages. The importance of creating favorable conditions for sustainable economic development and reducing income inequality among the working population is emphasized. Understanding the link between poverty and food insecurity will contribute to the development and implementation of a systemic social policy that ensures fair wages, as well as a socially equitable distribution of resources in society.
Analysis of food security and sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Georgia
Authors: Manvelidze Rezo , Tsetskhladze Leila , Surmanidze Iamze
Published: June 2024

The paper aims to analyze food security and the sustainable development of the agricultural sector in Georgia. The paper examines the development potential of the agricultural sector in Georgia. The following qualitative indicators are discussed: indicators of food self-sufficiency according to the main food products, indicators of compliance of Georgia's food exports with imports, the volume of investments in the agricultural sector and the factors affecting them. Factors affecting the implementation of the food security policy in Georgia, the establishment of agricultural orientation, the realization of the concept of organic agriculture, the increase in profitability, modernization, and financing policy have been analyzed. Econometric analysis of food security has been provided by the multiple logarithmic regression equation, according to which important factors influencing the growth rate of food self-sufficiency ratio were identified, such as the growth rate of agro-food net export's share; the growth rate of investments' shares in agriculture; the growth rate of the share of local agricultural production in the gross domestic product. The paper analyzes the experiences of other countries with better results than those in Georgia regarding food security. The effectiveness of their mechanisms in ensuring food security is studied, and recommendations are given for making changes.
The cost recovery in the cultivation of different sunflower seed hybrids
Authors: Stepasyuk Ludmila , Cherednichenko Olena , Volkova Nelia , Svitlychna Alla , Mykhailova Olena
Published: June 2024

Ensuring cost recovery and success in competition requires a flexible system of regulating the factors that determine it. In our opinion, one of the main such factors is the cost of seeds. It has been proven that the selection of the best hybrid in terms of productivity plays an important role in obtaining a high yield of sunflowers, as hybrids provide an increase in yield and even in excessively dry years, high yields of sunflowers can be obtained. The purpose of the research is to identify the dependence of yield on the costs of sunflower seeds and to increase their profitability by selecting the most effective hybrids. The work uses: monographic, comparative, statistical, tabular, graphic, abstract-logical methods and the method of correlation-regression analysis. It has been established that an economically beneficial factor in increasing crop yield for any cultivation technology is the quality composition of the used varietal resources. It was found that the best results in the enterprises of the Forest-Steppe zone are ensured by the use of hybrids. Thus, the highest rates of return on costs were obtained by hybrids NK Neoma and NK Kondi. The use of correlation-regression analysis allows determining the dependence of productivity on seed costs in the context of the use of hybrids that provide high return on costs.
Global warming and its impact on the production activities of Ukrainian agricultural enterprises
Authors: Demianenko Serhii , Sas Iryna , Fomichov Maksym
Published: June 2024

The study is devoted to the problems of global warming and its impact on the production activity of agricultural enterprises in Ukraine. The influence of the average monthly and annual air temperature and precipitation over the last eighteen years on the yield of the main crops in all climatic zones characteristic of Ukraine and all regions of Ukraine was analyzed. It is shown that despite the increase in the average annual air temperature of 1,11 °C and the decrease of precipitation by month of the year on 454,18 mm and its instability, as well as the negative impact on the production activity of agricultural enterprises of Ukraine of the military aggression of Russia, there is an increase in the yield of the main crops in 2023 in comparison with 2005 - winter wheat on 56,1 %, oilseeds on 68 %, corn on 96,5 %, and vegetables of the open ground on 22,7 %. A conclusion was made about the expediency of expanding irrigation in all regions of Ukraine, particularly drip irrigation, to increase the yield rate, ultimately leading to an increase in revenue and, thus, the profit of agricultural enterprises. The project's cost for introducing a drip irrigation system was calculated using the example of an agricultural enterprise, and the efficiency of growing corn for grain with and without irrigation was compared.
State policy of Ukraine in the field of overcoming food crisis at global and national level
Authors: Kurnosenko Larysa , Cheban Oksana , Maiev Andrii , Kholod Mariia
Published: June 2024

The paper considers the main challenges faced by the food security system of Ukraine under conditions of a full-scale war, including production, logistics, price, energy and trade challenges. It is emphasized that the war in Ukraine caused a significant reduction in Ukraine’s agricultural production capacity and made it difficult to access resources and territories that were previously the key ones for agricultural activity. The paper analyzes the regulations of the Government of Ukraine and the EU, data from official statistics and reports of the central executive authorities of Ukraine, which prove the effectiveness and adaptability of state measures aimed at preventing the food crisis, maintaining a stable level of agricultural production despite limited resources and logistical complications due to military actions. As a result of the research, mechanisms were systematized and unique characteristics of the state policy of Ukraine, simultaneously solving two priority goals, were identified based on the criteria proposed: restoration and stabilization of agricultural production capacities during the war and ensuring the population’s access to food. The systematization of state policy mechanisms made it possible to identify the most effective strategies and tools for managing the national and global food crisis during wartime.
Case study on Ukrainian farm gross margin and direct cost analysis of wheat production
Authors: Kuznietsova Tetiana , Krasovska Yuliana , Lesniak Oleksandr , Harnaha Oleksandr , Podlevska Oksana
Published: June 2024

The paper aims to present a case study of profitability analysis based on gross margin calculations to evaluate agricultural measures' financial impact on the final economic figures at Korystivske LLC Farming Company. Based on the information collected from annual financial statements, statistical reports and accounting data from 2011- 2023, the analysis relies on the gross margin method compared to the yield statistics of the main crops grown. The mathematical modelling in correlation and regression models shows the relationship between using fertilizers and pesticides and the resulting yields. Temporary reduction of fertilizer and plant protection intensity will reduce yields to some extent but will avoid deterioration of the financial situation of the analyzed farm. The model shows that intensification of agricultural technologies will not directly increase profits. The relationship between the use of mineral and organic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and fungicides and the dynamics of marginal profit is insignificant. It cannot give us specific recommendations on the direct impact of the intensity of agricultural practices on farm profitability. Further modelling of the relationship between agricultural technology and gross margins did not show any acceptable correlation, which proves the importance of forecasting final prices when intensifying fertilizer and pesticide use. The study results showed that high input prices are the most acute problem, and lower output prices are the last obstacle to further intensification of wheat production.
Ultrafast generation of hidden phases via energy-tuned electronic photoexcitation in magnetite
Authors: Truc B. , Usai P. , Pennacchio F. , Berruto G. , Claude R. , Madan I. , Sala V. , LaGrange T. , Vanacore G. M. , Benhabib S. , Carbone F.
Published: June 2024

Phase transitions occurring in nonequilibrium conditions can evolve through high-energy intermediate states inaccessible via equilibrium adiabatic conditions. Because of the subtle nature of such hidden phases, their direct observation is extremely challenging and requires simultaneous visualization of matter at subpicoseconds and subpicometer scales. Here, we show that a magnetite crystal in the vicinity of its metal-to-insulator transition evolves through different hidden states when controlled via energy-tuned ultrashort laser pulses. By directly monitoring magnetite’s crystal structure with ultrafast electron diffraction, we found that upon near-infrared (800 nm) excitation, the trimeron charge/orbital ordering pattern is destroyed in favor of a phase-separated state made of cubic-metallic and monoclinic-insulating regions. On the contrary, visible light (400 nm) activates a photodoping charge transfer process that further promotes the long-range order of the trimerons by stabilizing the charge density wave fluctuations, leading to the reinforcement of the monoclinic insulating phase. Our results demonstrate that magnetite’s structure can evolve through completely different metastable hidden phases that can be reached long after the initial excitation has relaxed, breaking ground for a protocol to control emergent properties of matter.
Predicted hot superconductivity in LaSc
2
H
24
under pressure
Authors: He Xin-Ling , Zhao Wenbo , Xie Yu , Hermann Andreas , Hemley Russell J. , Liu Hanyu , Ma Yanming
Published: June 2024

The recent theory-driven discovery of a class of clathrate hydrides (e.g., CaH
6
, YH
6
, YH
9
, and LaH
10
) with superconducting critical temperatures (
T
c
) well above 200 K has opened the prospects for “hot” superconductivity above room temperature under pressure. Recent efforts focus on the search for superconductors among ternary hydrides that accommodate more diverse material types and configurations compared to binary hydrides. Through extensive computational searches, we report the prediction of a unique class of thermodynamically stable clathrate hydrides structures consisting of two previously unreported H
24
and H
30
hydrogen clathrate cages at megabar pressures. Among these phases, LaSc
2
H
24
shows potential hot superconductivity at the thermodynamically stable pressure range of 167 to 300 GPa, with calculated
T
c
s up to 331 K at 250 GPa and 316 K at 167 GPa when the important effects of anharmonicity are included. The very high critical temperatures are attributed to an unusually large hydrogen-derived density of states at the Fermi level arising from the newly reported peculiar H
30
as well as H
24
cages in the structure. Our predicted introduction of Sc in the La–H system is expected to facilitate future design and realization of hot superconductors in ternary clathrate superhydrides.
Meteorological Trends and the Travel Sector in Bali 1991–2020
Authors: Sumaja Kadek , Koo Tay T.R.
Published: June 2024

This case study describes 30 years of meteorological data for the purpose of sharpening the management, strategic and policy discussions on the potential impact of climate on the aviation and travel sectors in Bali. Findings show a mix of positive and negative meteorological trends that may have implications for developing regulatory, physical and economic strategies.

Information

© The Authors 2024
A simply connected universal fibration with unique path lifting over a Peano continuum with non-simply connected universal covering space
Authors: Brazas Jeremy , Fischer Hanspeter
Published: June 2024

We present a 2-dimensional Peano continuum

T

⊆

R

3

\mathbb {T}\subseteq \mathbb {R}^3

with the following properties: (1) There is a universal covering projection

q
:

T

¯

→

T

q:\overline {\mathbb {T}}\rightarrow \mathbb {T}

with uncountable fundamental group

π
1

(

T

¯

)

\pi _1(\overline {\mathbb {T}})

; (2) For every

1
≠
[

α
¯

]
∈

π
1

(

T

¯

,
∗
)

1\not =[\overline {\alpha }]\in \pi _1(\overline {\mathbb {T}},\ast )

, there is a covering projection

r
:
(
E
,
e
)
→
(

T

¯

,
∗
)

r:(E,e)\rightarrow (\overline {\mathbb {T}},\ast )

such that

[

α
¯

]
∉

r
#

π
1

(
E
,
e
)

[\overline {\alpha }]\not \in r_\#\pi _1(E,e)

; (3) There is no universal covering projection

r
:
E
→

T

¯

r:E\rightarrow \overline {\mathbb {T}}

; (4) The universal object

p
:

T

~

→

T

p:\widetilde {\mathbb {T}}\rightarrow \mathbb {T}

in the category of fibrations with unique path lifting (and path-connected total space) over

T

\mathbb {T}

has trivial fundamental group

π
1

(

T

~

)
=
1

\pi _1(\widetilde {\mathbb {T}})=1

; (5)

p
:

T

~

→

T

p:\widetilde {\mathbb {T}}\rightarrow \mathbb {T}

is not a path component of an inverse limit of covering projections over

T

\mathbb {T}

.
May Morris, Egypt, and Coptic Textiles
Authors: Cooper Thomas
Published: June 2024

In the late-nineteenth century, vast quantities of Coptic textiles were brought to light through archaeological activity in Egypt and distributed among international collections. Produced between the third and seventh centuries CE, these remarkably preserved ancient objects became prized by textile scholars, including the artist, writer and teacher of the Arts and Crafts Movement, May Morris (1862–1938). This essay discusses Morris’s visit to Egypt in 1896, and her study and collecting of Coptic textiles. It argues that, in her 1899 publication ‘Coptic Textiles’, Morris produced an original contribution to emerging scholarship on Coptic art by formulating an experimental intervention that drew upon her knowledge and expertise as a textile maker-historian, and espoused an orientalised aesthetic response to colour. Following this, it considers how her collecting of Coptic textiles and valuing of Coptic material heritage was imbricated within a complex and contradictory discourse on preservation propagated among Arts and Crafts networks.
Anatomical evaluation of a novel echocardiography based tricuspid valve classification in 60 hearts from body donors
Authors: Schwendt Karoline , Pruizde Paata , Zwinz Sabrina , Weissinger Sabine , Nesteruk Julia , Zientara Alicja , Costa Galbas Michelle , Czerny Martin , Weninger Wolfgang J , Gottardi Roman
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to provide comprehensive morphological descriptions of the morphology of the tricuspid valve and to evaluate if a novel echocardiography-based tricuspid valve nomenclature can also be understood anatomically.

METHODS

Tricuspid valves of 60 non-embalmed human body donors without a medical history of pathologies or macroscopic malformations of the heart were included. Length, height and surface area of leaflets were measured. The valves were morphologically classified according to a novel echocardiography-based classification, in which 6 types are distinguished: classic 3-leaflet configuration, bicuspid valves, valves with 1 leaflet split into 2 scallops or leaflets and valves with 2 leaflets divided into 2 scallops or leaflets.

RESULTS

We found a true 3-leaflet configuration in only 19 (31.7%) of valves. Five (8.3%) had a 2-leaflet configuration with a fused anterior and posterior leaflet. Of those, 3 had a divided septal leaflet. Four valves (6.7%) had a divided anterior leaflet, 17 (28.3%) had a divided posterior leaflet, 6 (10%) had a divided septal leaflet and 9 (15.0%) had 2 leaflets divided. Overall, 39 (65%) of valves have at least 1 leaflet that is divided. In 22 (36.7%) specimens, the leaflet was divided into true leaflets, and in 17 (28.3%) specimens, the leaflet was divided into scallops. In addition, we could identify 9 (15%) valves having 1 leaflet divided not only in 2 but 3 scallops or leaflets.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides further anatomical insight for the significant variability in the morphology of the tricuspid valve. By updating the understanding of its morphological characteristics, this study equips clinicians with valuable insights to effectively advance surgical and interventional treatment of tricuspid valves.
The role of concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting in acute type A aortic dissection complicated by coronary malperfusion
Authors: Pitts Leonard , Kofler Markus , Montagner Matteo , Heck Roland , Kurz Stephan Dominik , Sündermann Simon , Falk Volkmar , Kempfert Jörg
Published: June 2024

OBJECTIVES

Managing acute type A aortic dissection with coronary malperfusion is challenging. This study outlines our revascularization strategy for these patients.

METHODS

Patients undergoing surgery for acute type A aortic dissection with coronary malperfusion and aortic root involvement from January 2000 to December 2021 were included. Patients were classified using the Neri classification for coronary dissection, including a novel ‘Neri −’ class (no coronary dissection). Patients undergoing revascularization either as a planned or as a bailout strategy due to persisting low cardiac output were compared additionally.

RESULTS

The cohort comprised 195 patients: 43 (22%) Neri −, 43 (22%) Neri A, 74 (38%) Neri B and 35 (18%) Neri C. Aortic root replacement was mainly performed in 25 Neri C patients (71%; P < 0.001). Concomitant bypass surgery was performed in 4 (9%) of Neri −, 5 (12%) of Neri A, 21 (28%) of Neri B and 32 (91%) of Neri C patients (P < 0.001). Thirty-day mortality was 42% with 21 (49%) Neri −, 12 (28%) Neri A, 30 (41%) Neri B and 19 (54%) Neri C patients (P = 0.087). Bailout revascularization was primarily performed in 11 Neri B patients (69%; P = 0.001) and associated with a higher 30-day mortality of 81% compared to 48% for planned revascularization (P = 0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative outcomes in case of coronary malperfusion are poor, irrespective of the anatomic dissection pattern. The decision for concomitant bypass surgery is crucial but may be considered in Neri C patients combined with aortic root replacement. Bailout revascularization was most common in Neri B and showed dismal outcome.
Confronting the metadata dilemma in India: a turn to context and proportionality
Authors: Lakra Rudraksh , Shrivastava Abhijeet
Published: June 2024

This paper problematizes the increasing trend of metadata collection by law enforcement, in light of the ‘going dark’ debate, which was spurred by the widespread adoption of secure encryption standards. Focusing on Indian privacy law, which remains nascent as of writing, we examine and propose potential constitutional limitations on metadata collection, and provide substantive guidance on their application. These limitations are bifurcated into two stages: first, whether metadata collection infringes upon the right to privacy, and second, whether the infringement is justified. In determining whether the collection of metadata in a specific case infringes privacy, we conceive of a ‘contextual approach’, challenging the usual ontological subordination of ‘metadata’ in relation to ‘content data’. At the second stage, we centre the standard of proportionality. We offer substantive guidance for Indian courts at each step of the test, including the development of a ‘risk profile’ of metadata collection practices. Such guidance is crucial, given the technically intricate nature of cases involving metadata processing.
Meaningful consumer involvement in cancer care: a systematic review on co-design methods and processes
Authors: Kiss Nicole , Jongebloed Hannah , Baguley Brenton , Marshall Skye , White Victoria M , Livingston Patricia M , Bell Kathy , Young Leonie , Sabesan Sabe , Swiatek Dayna , Boltong Anna , Britto Joanne M , Ugalde Anna
Published: June 2024

Objective

Although the benefits of consumer involvement in research and health care initiatives are known, there is a need to optimize this for all people with cancer. This systematic review aimed to synthesize and evaluate the application of co-design in the oncology literature and develop recommendations to guide the application of optimal co-design processes and reporting in oncology research, practice, and policy.

Methods

A systematic review of co-design studies in adults with cancer was conducted, searching MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycINFO databases and included studies focused on 2 concepts, co-design and oncology.

Results

A total of 5652 titles and abstracts were screened, resulting in 66 eligible publications reporting on 51 unique studies. Four frameworks were applied to describe the co-design initiatives. Most co-design initiatives were designed for use in an outpatient setting (n = 38; 74%) and were predominantly digital resources (n = 14; 27%) or apps (n = 12; 23%). Most studies (n = 25; 49%) used a co-production approach to consumer engagement. Although some studies presented strong co-design methodology, most (n = 36; 70%) did not report the co-design approach, and 14% used no framework. Reporting was poor for the participant level of involvement, the frequency, and time commitment of co-design sessions. Consumer participation level was predominantly collaborate (n = 25; 49%).

Conclusions

There are opportunities to improve the application of co-design in oncology research. This review has generated recommendations to guide 1) methodology and frameworks, 2) recruitment and engagement of co-design participants, and 3) evaluation of the co-design process. These recommendations can help drive appropriate, meaningful, and equitable co-design, leading to better cancer research and care.
The Use of QR Codes to Encourage Participation in Mail Push-To-Web Surveys: An Evaluation of Experiments from 2015 and 2022
Authors: Marlar Jenny , Schreiner Jon
Published: June 2024

Traditionally, mail push-to-web survey invitations contain a URL to allow respondents access to a web survey instrument. Today, a Quick Response (QR) code can be used to provide access to the survey without the need to manually type a URL. Including a QR code could improve survey response rates by increasing interest and reducing the perceived burden of the survey by appealing to smartphone owners and those who primarily rely on a smartphone to access the internet. QR codes may also reduce errors from keying in the survey URL manually. However, not everyone is familiar with or knows how to use QR codes, perhaps making a survey with a QR code seem more burdensome or irrelevant. The inclusion of a second way to access a survey (a QR code in addition to a URL) may also lead to choice paralysis and lower response rates. We present the results of two experiments, one conducted in 2015, prior to more widespread adoption of QR codes, and the other in 2022, after an uptick in QR adoption due to enhancement in smartphone technology and response to the coronavirus pandemic. Each experiment tested the impact of including a QR code on response rates to a mail push-to-web invitation sent to randomly selected US residential addresses. In both 2015 and 2022, we found a slight increase in response rates and the percent of respondents who are Hispanic when the QR code is included, though the 2015 findings were not statistically significant. We did not find evidence of mode choice paralysis when a QR code is presented as an additional access option or that QR codes negatively affect the demographic composition of respondents. The findings underscore the importance of testing and replicating research as adoption of newer technologies evolves.
The Danish Atlantic World
Authors: Simonsen Gunvor
Published: June 2024

In 1672, the Danish West India Company (as of 1674, the West India and Guinea Company) managed to establish a colony on the island of Saint Thomas in the eastern Caribbean. With the colonization of Saint Thomas, Denmark (until 1814, Denmark-Norway) added a decisive third node to its Atlantic trading ventures. From 1660, a Danish company had held slave-trading forts in West Africa. With the settlement of Saint Thomas, Denmark came to possess a triangular empire, connecting labor markets in Africa and crop production in the Caribbean with European consumers. The Caribbean settlement was enlarged in 1718 when Saint John was colonized and in 1733 when Saint Croix was purchased from the French. In 1755, the Danish state took over the Atlantic possessions. Racial slavery came to dominate the islands with enslaved captives arriving from the Danish slave-trading establishments in West Africa and through transit sale from surrounding Caribbean islands. The three islands of the Danish West Indies followed different trajectories. Saint Thomas was conceived as a plantation colony, yet the production of export crops proved challenging. Instead, the island became a regional trade center and was declared a free port in 1764. The mountainous island of Saint John was not ideal for plantation production. Consequently, it held opportunities for people with few resources, who could find a measure of independence rare on the other two Danish islands. Meanwhile, Saint Croix was better suited for sugar production because of its large flat plain, and it developed into a profitable plantation island. The Danish transatlantic slave trade was abolished in 1803 while slavery came to an end in 1848 after a successful uprising on Saint Croix. Post-emancipation society was marked by harsh labor regulations, economic hardship, and population decline. In 1878, rural laborers on Saint Croix revolted. The revolt was violently repressed and was followed by largely unsuccessful reforms. The West African enclaves had been sold to the British in 1850, having proved a burden on state finances, and in 1917, the Danish Caribbean colonies were sold to the United States and became the US Virgin Islands. The sale of the islands occurred after a referendum in Denmark, while the inhabitants of the islands were not given a vote. The early dismantlement of the Atlantic possessions, through sale to larger empires, by and large explains why Denmark is not home to an African Caribbean diaspora.
The Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL) in Africa
Authors: Anzalone Christopher
Published: June 2024

With the June 2014 declaration by the senior leadership of the Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL) that the militant organization now constituted a new “caliphate” under Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi to which all Sunni Muslims were religiously required to pledge allegiance (bayʿa), the organization grew in prestige among many militant Sunni Islamists and in infamy to the rest of the world’s peoples, including the vast majority of Muslims. The declaration also marked the start of a campaign by the Islamic State’s “core” organization, under al-Baghdadi and based in Syria and Iraq, to attract new recruits to its side, chief among them defectors from al-Qaeda Central and its regional affiliates and allies, including groups across Africa. As of October 2023, the Islamic State has officially recognized seven official affiliate “provinces” (wilayat) in Africa: “Somalia Province,” “West Africa Province,” “Central Africa Province,” “Libya Province,” “Sinai Province,” “Mozambique Province,” and “Algeria Province.” Islamic State–Central Africa Province (IS-CAP) initially included two branches, one based in Mozambique and the other in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, before Islamic State declared the Mozambican branch to constitute a separate “province” in 2022. Islamic State–West Africa Province originally included a semi-autonomous branch in the Sahel, Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (IS-GS), which officially broke away to form a new “Sahel Province” in 2022. During part of its history, Islamic State in Libya was subdivided into a number of regional “provinces,” though the Islamic State core consolidated them into a single province in 2018 as it continued to lose control of most of its territory, something it also did in response to territorial losses in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. In Libya, the Islamic State core played a particularly hands-on role in the establishment and operations of the “province” group. Islamic State also acknowledged pledges of allegiance made by African militant groups, which it did not name as full provinces. Following their official “wilayat” status, Islamic State’s province affiliates in Africa have had mixed experiences with the core organization and its leadership based in Syria and Iraq. There are also wide variations between the African Islamic State affiliates in their levels and targets of violence, attempts to establish proto-state governance and territorial control, and relations with civil society, the Islamic State core, and other Islamic State provinces, as well as al-Qaeda-aligned groups in their areas of operation. Given these variations between Islamic State’s provinces and other affiliates in Africa, this article seeks to provide an overview of the best literature available on the histories, evolutionary trajectories, activities, and multifaceted identities of these militant organizations. The article adopts a “province”-specific approach in addition to making note of a few continent-wide analyses that are currently available.