bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Analysis of the Temperature Profile Developed for a Hot Zone of 2500°C in an Induction Furnace
Authors: Herrera Juan , Sandoval Laura , Kumar Piyush , Shantha Kumar Sanjay , Rodriguez Arturo , Kumar Vinod , Bronson Arturo
Published: December 2024

Temperature gradients developed at ultra-high temperatures create a challenge for temperature measurements that are required for material processing. At ultra-high temperatures, the components of the system can react and change phases depending on their thermodynamic stability. These reactions change the physical properties of the system such as thermal conductivity and fluidity. This phenomenon complicates the extrapolation of temperature measurements, as they depend on the thermal conductivity of multiple insulating layers. The proposed model is an induction furnace employing an electromagnetic field to generate heat reaching 2500°C. A heat transfer simulation applying the finite element method determined temperatures and verified experimentally at key locations on the surface of the experimental setup within the furnace. The computed temperature profile of cylindrical graphite crucibles embedded in a larger cylindrical graphite body surrounded by zirconia grog is determined. When compared to experimental results, the simulation showed a percentage error of approximately 3.4% confirming its accuracy.
Enhancing Sports Coaching Education Through a Community of Practice Approach: Coach Developers’ Reflections From the CoachEd6 Project
Authors: Küttel Andreas , Şenel Ender , Rafnsson Daði , Petrovic Ladislav , Venzel Nicklas S. , Storm Louise K. , Kerr-Cumbo Renzo
Published: December 2024

Despite the recognized benefits of cross-cultural learning in the globalized world of sports, transnational sports coaching education programs remain scarce and have yet to be widely implemented in Higher Education across Europe. In this practical advance paper, we present how Coach Developers from Malta, Denmark, Iceland, and Turkey, in cooperation with the International Council for Coaching Excellence, collaboratively designed and delivered CoachEd6, a coaching education program at the bachelor’s degree level. Utilizing the six phases of Wenger-Trayner et al.’s community of practice framework, we delve into the identity and dynamics of the group members and the community. We also examine the challenges encountered and how cross-cultural collaboration facilitated overcoming these obstacles, ultimately leading to the successful delivery of the program. We propose that forthcoming cross-national sports coaching programs should view the leading group as a communities of practice and consciously leverage the social dynamics inherent in both developing and delivering coach education to optimize outcomes. This becomes especially critical in the context of Higher Education Institutions within Europe. Moreover, fostering the growth of a communities of practice should be guided by a culturally sensitive leading partner, adopting a flat hierarchy and an ethos of “everyone contributes.”
Supplemental Material: Bilateral asthenospheric flow fed by the Caroline plume (western Pacific Ocean)
Authors: Park Ji-Hoon , Chang Sung-Joon
Published: December 2024

 Detailed descriptions of resolution tests and Figures S1–S9.  
Supplemental Material: Effusive volcanic microcosm of a regional ignimbrite flare-up: Prolonged life cycle of the Chaxas Complex, northern Chile, and its influence on modern volcanic arc character
Authors: Lewis C.T. , al. et
Published: December 2024

Supplemental Data S1 contains all data reported here. Figure S1 shows ancillary glass data.
Prevalence of hypertension and its associated factors among healthcare workers in the Gaza Strip, Palestine: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Younis Joma , Wang Lina , Zhang Kejing , Jebril Majed , Jiang Hong , Fan Yahui , Li Zhaofang , Ma Mei , Ma Le , Hui Zhaozhao , Ma Mao , Zhang Wei
Published: December 2024

Background and objectives

Hypertension (HTN) is one of the leading risk factors of cardiovascular diseases and accounts for substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of HTN and its associated factors among healthcare workers (HCWs) at the Gaza Strip’s governmental hospitals and primary healthcare centres (PHCs).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Settings, participants and methods

The study with multistage stratified random sampling was conducted in 10 hospitals and 15 PHCs of the Ministry of Health in Palestine from February to May 2020. Self-administered face-to-face interview questionnaires were used to collect information on sociodemographics, lifestyles, health profiles and health-related risk factors. The anthropometric parameters were measured, including height, weight, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. HTN was diagnosed by taking any antihypertensive medication, or the mean blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg. The SPSS V.26.0 software was used for data analyses.

Results

A total of 1850 participants, with a mean (SD) age of 36.6 (7.9) years, including 12.2% physicians, 65.3% nurses, 18.1% paramedics and 4.4% non-medical personnel, were included in this study. The prevalence of HTN among HCWs was 8.4%. The associated modifiable factors of HTN were body mass index (BMI), smoking, coffee intake and physical activity (p<0.05). The anthropometric parameters were considerably higher in HTN than in non-HTN (p<0.05). In adjusted models, age, BMI, WC, HC, type of work, workplace, working experience, smoking, coffee intake, physical activity and family history of HTN showed statistically significant associations with HTN (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The modifiable factors, including smoking, coffee intake, physical activity and BMI, were associated with the risk of HTN. These findings indicate that effective efforts in maintaining a healthy lifestyle are needed to prevent HTN among HCWs.
Effects of clinical and socioeconomic factors on Medicare and patient costs for colorectal cancer in Australia: a retrospective multivariate regression analysis
Authors: Yang Ou , Zhang Yuting , To Yat Hang , M J IJzerman Maarten , Liu Judith , Gibbs Peter , Trapani Karen , Pearson Sallie-Anne , Franchini Fanny
Published: December 2024

Objective

We study how clinical and socioeconomic factors influence colorectal cancer (CRC) costs for patients and Medicare in Australia. The study seeks to extend the limited Australian literature on CRC costs by analysing comprehensive patient-level medical services and pharmaceutical cost data.

Design, setting and participants

Using the Victorian Cancer Registry, we identified all patients in Victoria who were diagnosed with CRC from 2010 to 2019 and extracted their linked 2010–2021 Medicare data. This data includes expenses from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme and Medicare Benefits Schedule services. We examined variables such as disease stage, CRC type, molecular profile, metastasis status and demographics (eg, age, birth country, socioeconomic level via the SEIFA index, and native language). We applied descriptive and log-linear multivariate regression analyses to explore patient and Medicare costs related to CRC treatment.

Results

Costs significantly rise with advanced cancer stages, especially on medication costs. Patients’ average out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses are roughly $A441 per year. Key cost influencers are gender, age and socioeconomic status. On average, males incur 13.5% higher annual costs, a significantly larger OOP expense, than females. Compared with patients aged 50 or below, there is a 7.1% cost increase for individuals aged 50–70 and an 8.8% decrease post-70, likely reflecting less intensive treatment for the elderly. Socioeconomic factors show a clear gradient. Wealthier areas experience higher costs, especially among native English speakers. Costs also vary based on cancer’s anatomical location and specific genetic mutations.

Conclusion

The research highlights that CRC treatment expenses for patients and Medicare differ considerably due to factors such as diagnostic stage, demographics, anatomical location of the tumour and mutations. These cost variations lead to concerns about healthcare equality and decision-making autonomy. Policymakers may need to focus on early detection, increased support for advanced-stage patients, gender-sensitive healthcare, and equitable access to treatment across different socioeconomic groups.
Optimal frailty assessment tool for elderly patients with heart failure based on outcome prediction: protocol for a multicentre prospective cohort study
Authors: Wei Xiaolei , Shen Xueli , Yuan Qiuchen , Shen Chen , Liang Tao , Gao Rui , Li Shuping , Cui Lingling
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Frailty significantly influences the prognosis of elderly patients diagnosed with heart failure. The assessment of frailty is a critical initial step in the management of these patients, as a systematic and precise evaluation facilitates the identification of individuals at high risk. This identification enables timely and targeted interventions, which can subsequently reduce the likelihood of adverse cardiovascular events and improve the quality of life for elderly patients with heart failure. Nevertheless, there exists a notable deficiency in research regarding the most effective frailty assessment tools specifically for elderly patients with heart failure in China. The objective of this study is to identify the frailty assessment tool that demonstrates the highest predictive value for outcomes in this population.

Methods and analysis

This study is a multicentre, prospective cohort investigation that commenced in October 2023 across three tertiary hospitals in Beijing, China. Employing a continuous enrolment strategy, the study encompasses all elderly patients diagnosed with heart failure who are undergoing either outpatient or inpatient treatment, continuing until an adequate sample size is achieved. Follow-up evaluations are scheduled every 3 months from the point of patient enrolment, extending until the 12th month post-enrolment. Comprehensive data collection, which includes demographic information, heart failure-related metrics, frailty assessments and significant biochemical test results, is conducted through face-to-face interviews at baseline.

Ethics and dissemination

Participant inclusion will depend on obtaining written informed consent from the patient or guardian. The trial protocol was approved by the Central Ethics Committee of Beijing Hospital. The approval letter number is 2023BJYYEC-356-01. Outcomes of the study will be published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
Macrophage Therapy for Acute Liver Injury (MAIL): a study protocol for a phase 1 randomised, open-label, dose-escalation study to evaluate safety, tolerability and activity of allogeneic alternatively activated macrophages in patients with paracetamol-induced acute liver injury in the UK
Authors: Humphries Christopher , Addison Melisande , Aithal Guruprasad , Boyd Julia , Briody Lesley , Campbell John D M , Candela Maria Elena , Clarke Ellise , Coulson James , Downing-James Nicholas , Fontana Robert John , Geddes Ailsa , Grahamslaw Julia , Grant Alison , Heye Anna , Hutchinson James A , Jones Ashley , Mitchell Fiona , Moore Joanna , Riddell Alice , Rodriguez Aryelly , Thomas Angela , Tucker Garry , Walker Kim , Weir Christopher J , Woods Rachel , Zahra Sharon , Forbes Stuart J , Dear James W
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Acute liver failure (ALF) has no effective treatment other than liver transplantation and is commonly caused by paracetamol overdose. New treatments are needed to treat and prevent ALF. Alternatively-activated macrophages (AAMs) can promote resolution of liver necrosis and stimulate hepatocyte proliferation. Using AAMs in unscheduled care requires the use of an allogeneic product. A clinical trial is needed to determine the safety and tolerability of allogeneic AAMs.

Methods and analysis

A single-centre, open-label, dose-escalation, phase 1 randomised trial to determine whether there is dose-limiting toxicity of AAMs in patients with paracetamol-induced acute liver injury. Randomisation will occur at higher doses. Between 17 and 30 patients will receive treatment, subject to dose-limiting toxicity and an adaptive trial design which aims to reduce the risk of allocation bias through blinding and randomisation.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial will be conducted according to the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki 2013 and has been approved by North East—York Research Ethics Committee (reference 23/NE/0019), National Health Service Lothian Research and Development department, and the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. When the trial concludes, results will be shared by presentation and publication.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN12637839.
Exploring barriers and facilitators in nurses’ reporting of patient and visitor violence: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Cai Jianzheng , Ying Yajie , Wang Haifang , Yu Weixia , Wu Sisi , Zhang Yingying , Wang Yalan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The current status of patient and visitor violence (PVV) reporting among nurses has proven insufficient. Therefore, we explored the barriers and facilitators in nurses’ reporting of PVV.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

General and specialised hospitals in Jiangsu Province, China.

Participants

A convenience sampling of 3363 nurses in Jiangsu Province was collected between January and July 2023.

Main outcome measure

The reporting rate of PVV was assessed by the hospital workplace violence questionnaire-revised version; multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with PVV reporting at the 5% significance level.

Results

Out of the 3363 surveyed nurses, 1813 (53.9%) reported experiencing PVV within the past year. Notably, only 16.1% of these nurses proactively reported PVV incidents after encountering them. Factors that facilitated reporting of PVV comprised being male (OR 1.832, 95% CI 1.083 to 3.101), working in specialised hospitals (OR 2.335, 95% CI 1.517 to 3.594), serving in emergency (OR 1.788, 95% CI 1.105 to 2.892), outpatient (OR 3.153, 95% CI 1.697 to 5.860), paediatrics (OR 3.808, 95% CI 1.976 to 7.338), possessing agreeableness personality (OR 2.112, 95% CI 1.140 to 3.911), prior hearing of PVV (OR 1.749, 95% CI 1.305 to 2.346) and having hospitals that actively encouraged reporting (OR 2.700, 95% CI 1.848 to 3.946) while safeguarding staff interests (OR 2.072, 95% CI 1.010 to 4.248) and emphasising nurses more (OR 2.109, 95% CI 1.123 to 3.958). Conversely, factors impeding nurses from reporting PVV included having night shifts 5–9 times per month (OR 0.481, 95% CI 0.282 to 0.819) and selectively reporting based on the severity of the violence (OR 0.550, 95% CI 0.344 to 0.878).

Conclusion

The reporting rate of PVV among nurses was notably low. Nursing managers should consider implementing comprehensive measures that address both the facilitating and blocking factors identified in the study. This strategic approach aims to enhance the reporting rate of PVV incidents among nurses, fostering a safer and more supportive environment within healthcare settings.
New Approaches to Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Walter Emmanuel B. , Munoz Flor M.
Published: December 2024

There have been several recent advances in the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in older adults and young children. Three different vaccines are now approved for use in older adults; one of these vaccines is also approved for use in pregnant individuals for the prevention of LRTD due to RSV in their infants. In addition, a new monoclonal antibody is available to prevent RSV LRTD in infants born during or entering their first RSV season and in children up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. Despite these advances in prevention efforts, specific antiviral treatment options for RSV infection remain limited. Several promising compounds remain in development.
Application and Expectations for Immune Checkpoint Blockade of LAG3 and TIGIT
Authors: Dumbrava Ecaterina Elena , Ben Haj Frej Khaoula , Sharon Elad , Tawbi Hussein
Published: December 2024

Immune checkpoint blockade targeting the novel targets of the lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG3) and the T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif domains (TIGIT) has marked a significant advancement in oncology, offering new therapeutic opportunities to fight diverse malignancies. This review covers the biological basis and clinical application of LAG3 and TIGIT inhibitors, highlighting pivotal trials and therapeutic outcomes. We underscore the use of dual therapy immune checkpoint blockade in enhancing antitumor immunity, particularly in settings where monotherapy has shown limited efficacy. Additionally, we address the emerging challenges such as treatment resistance and adverse effects. We explore the strategic integration of LAG3 and TIGIT blockade within the broader immunotherapy landscape, emphasizing innovative combinations and the quest for predictive biomarkers to optimize patient selection and treatment efficacy.
Adverse Events Following Vaccines: From Detection to Research Translation
Authors: Fernandez Edward , Jaggers Jordon , Norton Allison E. , Stone Cosby , Phillips Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

Vaccines are lifesaving interventions that reduce the morbidity and mortality of disease. Fortunately, serious adverse events with vaccination are uncommon, but they must promptly be recognized and evaluated to assess and clarify the safety of future administration, a process that the public must understand in order to feel safe in receiving vaccines. In this article, we provide a review of vaccine development, discuss the process by which safety is ensured, and describe key adverse events associated with their administration. We review in detail existing mechanisms for reporting these events and assessing them following recovery, as well as communication related to vaccine safety. We also describe barriers to vaccination, such as nocebo effects and antivaccination groups, and use lessons learned from the successful development of COVID-19 vaccines during the recent pandemic to define future opportunities and directions for vaccine safety.
Identification, Synthesis, and Characterization of N‐Formyl Mirabegron: A New Degradation Product Formed by Formic Acid Impurity in Pharmaceutical Excipients
Authors: Daoud Agha Dit Daoudy Bashir , Al-Khayat Mohammad Ammar , Abo Chameh Ghassan , Al Mardini Mohammad Amer
Published: December 2024

This study demonstrated the impact of formic acid (FAc), a common reactive impurity in pharmaceutical excipients, on the stability of mirabegron (MB). The investigation of MB‐excipient compatibility tests revealed the formation of a new degradation product, FAc‐DP, at 0.2% after 7 days of isothermal stress at 55°C. FAc‐DP was synthesized and characterized as N‐formyl MB using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) and both 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR).
In Vitro Antibacterial and Postantibiotic Effects of Enrofloxacin Combined With Sulfamonomethoxine Against Pathogenic Bacteria of Yellow Catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco)
Authors: Jia Bofan , Zhao Yang , Zhang Sirong , Deng Jianchao , Chen Shengjun , Li Chunsheng , Huang Hui , Deng Yiqin , Xu Liwen , Qi Bo , Hu Xiao , Zhao Yongqiang , Li Laihao
Published: December 2024

Research on the synergistic effect of combined antibacterial agents has contributed significantly to addressing microbiological challenges, particularly bacterial resistance mutations. This study employed a combination of enrofloxacin (ENR) and sulfamonomethoxine (SMM) to conduct in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility tests and assess postantibiotic effects (PAEs) against three primary pathogens, Edwardsiella ictaluri, Aeromonas veronii, and Aeromonas hydrophila, known to afflict yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco). The results indicated that the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of ENR against E. ictaluri, A. veronii, and A. hydrophila were 0.25, 0.125, and 0.125 μg/mL, respectively. The MICs of SMM against these pathogens were 800, 700, and 700 μg/mL, respectively. Notably, the combination of ENR and SMM exhibited synergistic effects across all tested strains, increasing the PAE duration compared to ENR or SMM alone at the same concentration (p  < 0.05). In addition, the increase in PAE duration and enhanced antibacterial efficacy observed with the ENR–SMM combination demonstrated a positive correlation with the total drug concentration. These results suggest that the combination of ENR and SMM reduced the dosage of individual antibacterial agents while ensuring an efficient antibacterial effect. This approach holds promise for the treatment of bacterial infections in the yellow catfish.
Development and Examination of an Educational Program Combining E-Learning and Face-to-Face Training That Nurtures Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nurse Specialists
Authors: Mizuno Hikaru , Fujimoto Yu , Furukawa Yoshiko , Katashima Mayu , Yamamoto Koji , Sakagami Kayoko , Nunotani Maya , Seto Natsuko
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The number of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Japan has continued to increase, leading to diverse and complex patient backgrounds. Despite these challenges, the education of IBD nurse specialists has not kept pace with the evolving circumstances. Therefore, our research aimed to develop and validate an educational program for the training of IBD nurse specialists. Methods: We designed an educational program targeting nurses involved with IBD care. The program included e-learning on the assessment of IBD activity and self-care support, as well as face-to-face group discussions. The understanding and practice of disease activity assessment and self-care support were evaluated before and after the e-learning sessions and face-to-face training. Face-to-face training satisfaction was assessed using the Course Interest Survey (CIS) scale and summarized through descriptive statistics. Results: Overall, data from 19 participants were analyzed. Scores for understanding and practice of disease activity assessment and self-care support increased across all training processes. Moreover, the items that significantly increased before and after e-learning were “inflammation” (p = 0.012), “IBD recognition” (p = 0.026), and “treatment” (p = 0.013) in terms of understanding and “inflammation” (p = 0.036) in terms of practice. The items that increased significantly from e-learning to face-to-face training were “inflammation” (p = 0.042), “subject symptoms” (p = 0.018), and “treatment” (p = 0.017) in terms of understanding. No significant differences in mean scores for understanding and practice were observed between the two groups. According to the CIS scale, the “attention” and “relevance” factors indicate that the training design was highly interesting and relevant. However, the “confidence” factor received a slightly lower average score than did the other factors. Conclusion: The educational program showed promising implications for the development of IBD nurse specialists. However, further consideration is needed to devise training content that fosters confidence in clinical practice.
TREE SPECIES DIVERSITY IN PHRA THAT SI MUEANG PONG AREA, CHIANG MAI PROVINCE, THAILAND
Authors: Leelahakriengkrai Pongpan , Bunsongthae Akharasit , Insing Audcharapat
Published: December 2024

Article Highlights- Rich tree diversity found in Phra That Si Mueang Pong area. - Endangered species identified, promoting conservation efforts. - Unique plant distribution influenced by land use and water proximity. - Potential for ecotourism and environmental education in the region. - Study provides foundational data for future ecological research.AbstractThis research conducted a survey of perennial flora in ten subplots along the pathway leading to Phra That Si Mueang Pong, identifying a total of 30 species representing 20 families, 28 genera.  Dominant species included Lagerstroemia duperreana var. duperreana, Shorea siamensis, Pterocarpus macrocarpus, Tectona grandis, and Vitex canescens. Families with the highest species number were Fabaceae, Lamiaceae, Combretaceae, and Malvaceae. The study revealed the presence of both common and rare plant species in the area, with differences in species distribution between plots 1-5 and 6-10. Plots 6-10, near the Mae Tha Chang River, displayed higher biodiversity, correlating with the biodiversity index. The dominant species, based on the importance value index (IVI), were Pterocarpus macrocarpus, Lagerstroemia duperreana, Tectona grandis, Shorea siamensis, and Millettia brandisiana, respectively. Two species, Pterocarpus macrocarpus and Tectona grandis, were classified as endangered. The soil analysis indicated slightly acidic pH and relatively low moisture content, with significant differences between plots 1-5 and 6-10. The study suggests the potential for ecotourism and environmental learning centers in the Chiang Mai province cultural tourism destination, emphasizing the rich biodiversity and ecological value of the mixed deciduous and dry dipterocarp forest ecosystems.
Metabonomic Biomarkers of Plaque Burden and Instability in Patients With Coronary Atherosclerotic Disease After Moderate Lipid‐Lowering Therapy
Authors: Mei Zhendong , Xu Lili , Huang Qingxia , Lin Chenhao , Yu Mengyao , Shali Shalaimaiti , Wu Hongyi , Lu Yijing , Wu Runda , Wang Zhen , Luo Lingfeng , Sun Zhonghan , Sun Liang , Qian Juying , Chen Guochong , Tang Huiru , Yao Kang , Zheng Yan , Dai Yuxiang , Ge Junbo
Published: December 2024

Background

Contemporary risk assessment in patients with coronary atherosclerotic disease (CAD) often relies on invasive angiography. However, we aimed to explore the potential of metabolomic biomarkers in reflecting residual risk in patients with CAD after moderate lipid‐lowering therapy.

Methods and Results

We analyzed serum metabolomic profile among 2560 patients with newly diagnosed CAD undergoing moderate lipid‐lowering therapy, through nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and quantified 175 metabolites, predominantly lipoproteins and their components. CAD severity was evaluated using Gensini score for plaque burden and circulating cardiac troponin T levels for plaque instability. The association of metabolites with CAD severity was examined using multivariate linear regression, and the underlying potential causality was explored using a 2‐sample Mendelian randomization approach. Two composite metabolomic indices were constructed to reflect CAD severity using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator linear regression, and their associations with risk of major adverse cardiac events during a median follow‐up of 3.8 years were evaluated using Cox models. Our investigation revealed that triglycerides and apolipoprotein B in low‐density lipoprotein particles displayed stronger associations with CAD severity compared with the clinically used low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol marker. In large high‐density lipoprotein, components like cholesterol, cholesterol esters, triglyceride, apolipoprotein A1/A2 showed inverse associations with CAD severity. Certain metabolites, including apolipoprotein B and dihydrothymine, showed a putative causal link with Gensini score. Notably, per standard deviation increase in Gensini score–based metabolomic index was associated with 14.8% higher major adverse cardiac event risk (hazard ratio, 1.148 [95% CI, 1.018–1.295]) independent of demographic factors, medication use, and disease status.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the potential of nuclear magnetic resonance–based metabolomics in identifying novel biomarkers of plaque burden and instability. Metabolites related to plaque burden may facilitate noninvasive assessment of CAD prognosis.
Article 63 of the ICJ Statute and the Legal Effects of Judgments on Intervening States – an Attempt for More Clarity
Authors: Huremagić Haris
Published: December 2024

Article 63(2) of the ICJ Statute foresees that the construction of a convention contained in a judgment will be “equally binding” upon intervening States. While it is clear that the object and purpose of this provision is to facilitate a coherent interpretation of multilateral conventions, the extent of its binding force is contested. This article seeks to explore the possible interpretations of Article 63(2). The construction of this provision’s legal effects could impact States’ decisions whether to intervene and on which basis. This article argues that its binding force needs to be construed narrowly. It contends that any binding force is limited by Article 59 resulting in the intervening States and the parties being bound between themselves and in respect of the particular case only. As a result, while such narrowly construed binding force has modest effects, it causes fewer frictions with the ICJ Statute and other rules of international law.
Rediscovering Leucoagaricus sinicus, with the recognition of Leucoagaricus and Leucocoprinus as separate genera, and two new genera in Agaricaceae (Basidiomycota)
Authors: YANG KUN L. , LIN JIA Y. , LI GUANG-MEI , LI TAIHUI , YANG ZHU L.
Published: December 2024

An agaric belonging to the Leucoagaricus-Leucocoprinus group (AC group) of Agaricaceae s. l., commonly found in South China, was usually identified as Leucoagaricus lacrymans or Lepiota shixingensis in previous researches. However, as this agaric is also close to La. sinicus and the phylogeny of the AC group has not been resolved, its taxonomic position has not been elucidated. In this study, by reconstructing the phylogeny of the AC group and its closely related genera based on four DNA loci (ITS, nrLSU, rpb2, and tef-1α), the AC group is resolved as polyphyletic but formed a monophyletic group together with Micropsalliota, and is divided into four genera: Leucoagaricus, Leucocoprinus, and two newly described genera close to Micropsalliota, namely Candelolepiota and Macropsalliota. Candelolepiota is a monotypic genus that accommodates this agaric as Candelolepiota sinicus (≡ Leucoagaricus sinicus), characterized by basidiomata excreting colored droplets when fresh, turning brownish after touched or damaged, and subcylindrical, flexuous cheilocystidia. Leucoagaricus lacrymans is a later synonym of Cd. sinicus. Macropsalliota is similar to Micropsalliota, but differs from the latter by usually more robust basidiomata, pileus with granular, fibrous or flaky squamules composed of perpendicular to interwoven hyphae, whitish to yellowish lamellae and slightly colored basidiospores with a germ pore, accommodating the previously recognized La. americanus and its related species. Leucoagaricus is revised to accommodate species that are usually saprotrophic in forests, not symbiotic with attine ant species, producing slender to moderately robust basidiomata without a distinct color change after touched, damaged, or dried, with a non-plicate to shortly plicate pileus without or with squamules composed of horizontal to interwoven hyphae, and basidiospores without a germ pore. Leucocoprinus is revised to accommodate species that are widely saprotrophic in forests, lawns, urban areas, and compost, occasionally symbiotic with attine ant species, producing slender to robust basidiomata turning reddish, purplish, greenish to bluish or without a distinct color change after touched, damaged, or dried, with a non-plicate to plicate pileus with squamules composed of perpendicular to interwoven hyphae, and basidiospores with or without a germ pore. The presence or absence of a long continuous gap region in the ITS alignment is also found to be informative for the recognition of Micropsalliota, Macropsalliota, and the other three genera in the AC group. Fifty-three new combinations are proposed. The genus Lepiota is recognized as separated from Agaricaceae s. str. and belonging to the family Lepiotaceae.
Prodasineura sangkhla sp. nov., a new damselfly from western Thailand (Odonata: Platycnemididae)
Authors: KEETAPITHCHAYAKUL TOSAPHOL SAETUNG , MAKBUN NOPPADON , IGNATIUS KAEWPAWIKA JITTHAMMA , PHAN QUOC TOAN
Published: December 2024

Prodasineura sangkhla sp. nov. is described from the Takhian Thong waterfall near the Thai-Myanmar border, Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand. It differs from all other species of Prodasineura Cowley, 1934 by the combination of the characters including white pruinescence on prothorax, synthorax and some parts of legs, blue markings on S10 and anal appendages, shape of anal appendages in males, and shape of occipital band and posterior process of posterior lobe in females.
Impacts of Climate Change and Land-Use Change on Summer Water Vapor Contribution in Eastern China Based on a Bayesian Isotopic Mixing Model
Authors: Chen Jiacheng , Chen Jie , Zhang Xunchang J. , Peng Peiyi
Published: December 2024

Water vapor transport plays an important role in hydrological processes, influencing water cycles at global and regional scales. Investigating the change in water vapor sources of precipitation is helpful to understand the precipitation change and its cause. Combining the Bayesian isotopic mixing model and the Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model, this study determines the contribution change of water vapor sources for precipitation and the difference of water vapor sources under different land use and cover in eastern China. The study estimated that the mean contributions of advection, evaporation, and transpiration vapor to summer precipitation during 1969–2017 are 80.3%, 5.1%, and 14.5%, respectively. Among the advection vapor, vapor from Eurasia and the western Pacific Ocean contributes most to the precipitation in North China and vapor from the Indian Ocean, South China Sea, and western Pacific Ocean contributes most in South China. The contribution of advection vapor to precipitation decreases at the rate of 0.7% decade−1, while the contributions of evaporation and transpiration vapor increase at the rate of 0.2% and 0.5% decade−1, respectively. Advection vapor contribution is the controlling factor of summer precipitation change, while local evaporation and transpiration vapor are also contributors. In addition, the contributions of evaporation and transpiration vapor to precipitation are influenced by land use and cover type. The contributions of evaporation and transpiration vapor to precipitation for large-proportion forests are higher than those for cultivated lands, while the contributions for small-proportion forests are lower than those for cultivated lands.
Understanding the Influence of the Tropical Intraseasonal Oscillation in Predicting the Indian Ocean Dipole
Authors: Jiang Jing , Wu Jiye , Luo Jing-Jia
Published: December 2024

The Indian Ocean dipole (IOD) is an important source of seasonal–interannual climate prediction. However, predicting the IOD itself is a long-standing challenge due to in part the influence of tropical intraseasonal oscillation (ISO). This study revisits the influence of the ISO on the evolution of the IOD. Furthermore, the impact of intraseasonal signals on the IOD prediction is investigated using an atmosphere–ocean coupled model. Compared to the prediction without atmospheric data initialization (nudging toward observed atmosphere), the prediction skill of the IOD at lead times of 1–6 months is improved. This improvement may benefit from a realistic initial condition and prediction in the first month for tropical ISOs such as the boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO) and its associated easterly/westerly wind events (E/WWEs). As seen in the observation and predictions, the frequency of the active BSISO in summer is significantly correlated to the SST anomalies over the eastern Indian Ocean (EIO) in autumn, and the WWEs in summer excite downwelling Kelvin waves and accumulate heat in the subsurface of the EIO. However, the effect of atmospheric nudging varies when predicting different IOD events. For instance, it improves the prediction of a positive IOD (pIOD) in 1997, while it degrades the prediction of a pIOD in 2006, which is attributed to the asymmetrical relationship between intraseasonal easterly/westerly wind and SST in the EIO. Our results reinforce the importance of high-frequency signals in the IOD prediction. The limited skill in predicting the ISO and the across-time-scale interactions may restrict the model’s capability in predicting the IOD.
Exploring the Relationship Between Fear of Positive Evaluation and Social Anxiety: Mediating Role of Self-Focus
Authors: Akkuş Koray
Published: December 2024

Recent studies have shown that fear of positive evaluation (FPE) is closely associated with social anxiety. However, studies examining the unique role of FPE and investigating the nature of the relationship between FPE and social anxiety are limited. This article presents two studies to address this gap. The first study ( N = 314) examines the individual role of FPE on social anxiety while controlling for fear of negative evaluation (FNE) and maladaptive cognitions. The second study ( N = 342) investigates the mediating role of self-focused attention in the relationship between FPE and social anxiety. Results of Study 1 demonstrated that FPE explains additional variances in social anxiety above and beyond FNE and maladaptive cognitions. Study 2 found that self-focus mediates the relationship between FPE and social anxiety when FNE is controlled. The current findings highlight the critical role of FPE on social anxiety and provide valuable information on how FPE contributes to social anxiety.
Faeco-vaginal fistulae: An algorithm for management
Authors: Sharma Deepti Bala , Solanki Fanindra , Mahant Ravi Kant , Tiwari Chandan , Agarwal Pawan , Sharma Dhananjaya
Published: December 2024

Faeco-vaginal fistulae are not uncommon. We suggest a simple management algorithm to provide tailored approach for every patient.
Research on composite anti-disturbance adaptive constraint control strategy for quadruped robot
Authors: Gong Chikun , Yang Kun , Yuan Lipeng , Xu Anding
Published: December 2024

To achieve the stable walking of a quadruped robot, a composite anti-disturbance adaptive constraint control strategy is proposed based on the analysis of the dynamic model. First, the leg control adopts a trajectory tracking constraint control algorithm based on a time-varying tangent-type barrier Lyapunov function, which ensures high-precision control with joint trajectory tracking errors consistently constrained within a time-varying boundary. To further enhance the robustness of the system, an adaptive algorithm is used to compensate for external disturbances and system uncertainties. Second, the body posture control of the quadruped robot adopts the Virtual Model Control algorithm, which achieves stable adjustments of the body posture and soft contact between the foot end and the ground. This further improves its disturbance rejection capability. Finally, a comparative study of control algorithms is being conducted using MATLAB/Simulink. The results show that under this control strategy, the quadruped robot’s motion exhibits good robustness and flexibility.
Becoming “Platform Workers”: A Biographical Exploration of Temporary Visa and Worker Subjectivities in the Gig Economy
Authors: Stingl Isabella , Orth Barbara
Published: December 2024

As studies worldwide have highlighted, place-based platform work is predominantly carried out by migrant and/or racialized workers. By tracing the migration trajectories of Chilean and Argentinian gig workers on Working Holiday Visas (WHV) in Germany, we shed light on how platform-mediated work fits into the larger life trajectories of these migrant workers. Applying a lens of time and temporalities, we conceptualize migration as a process of becoming that involves the temporalities of particular visa regimes, wider scales of institutional and social temporal ordering, and progression through an individual's life course. We find that the temporal horizons of the visa and the transient nature of platform work foster distinct worker subjectivities that make platform work acceptable despite its precarity. We therefore argue that the temporariness of the WHV is a crucial factor in explaining why highly educated young people engage in low-status and low-waged platform work.
Six-sigma Methodologies in Airlines Operations
Authors: Bollapragada Ramesh , Chan Vivian
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we illustrate the key improvement indicators, their performance variance, and their respective financial impacts on airline operations. Through the six sigma process improvement methodology (DMAIC), this paper presents the passengers’ expectations, current performance level, compensation expenses due to nonconformities, root causes of the nonconformities, and means to reduce performance variance and improve process to achieve cost savings. The research methods consist of data collection from several sources such as SITA, U.S. Aviation consumer reports, Aviation accident statistics from multiple sources. Our results indicate airlines can save billions of dollars annually once six sigma operational processes are reached.
Quality of life and aspects related nutrition in advance stages non-small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Hue Bui Thi Kim , Quyen Tran Chau , Dung Nguyen Quang , Ha Le Thu , Quang Bui Vinh , Nam Tran Thi , Loan Nguyen Thi
Published: December 2024

Background: The quality of life (QoL) associated nutritional symptoms among advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients remains uncertain. This study aimed to assess the impact of nutrition-related symptoms (indicated by Patient Generated Subjective Global Assessment-PG-SGA) to QoL among individuals diagnosed with advanced NSCLC, utilizing the EORTC QLQ-LC13 tool. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 170 patients diagnosed with NSCLC (TxNxM1) with periodically chemotherapy treatment at Hanoi Oncology hospital were invited to the study. The PG-SGA and EORTC QLQ-LC13 were assessed by a dietitian. Results: Poor nutritional status related with decrease in QoL ( p < 0.05). Cough and short of breath moderate-positively correlated with PG-SGA score, while pain, take medicine for pain and trouble swallowing were fairly correlated. The symptoms of cough up blood, sore mouth or tongue, tingling and hair lost had poor correlation with PG-SGA score. Loss of appetite and anorexia had poor negative correlation with short of breath and pain in arm or shoulder. Conclusions: QoL declined in advance stage NSCLC malnutrition patients. Nutrition-related symptoms had poor to fair correlation with QoL categories, which suggests the insufficiency on solely addressing nutritional symptoms to enhance QoL in this group.
A circular economy-based valorization of agricultural residues to remove heavy metals from water: Adsorption and final disposal strategy
Authors: Moreno-Virgen M.R. , Rodríguez-García K.A. , Bonilla-Petriciolet A. , Reynel-Ávila H.E. , Villalobos-Delgado F.J. , Mendoza-Castillo D.I. , González-Vázquez O.F. , Reynel-Ávila H.E. , Mendoza-Castillo D.I. , Ortiz-Lozano J.A.
Published: December 2024

This manuscript analyzes the valorization of agricultural wastes as heavy metal adsorbents and their eco-friendly final disposal as mineral admixtures to manufacture cement-based construction materials. The adsorption properties of nutshell, pistachio shell, and agave fiber for the removal of Pb2+ and Ni2+ from aqueous solution were analyzed under different operating scenarios (i.e., pH, temperature, waste dosage, CaCO3 concentration). Taguchi L9 experimental design was applied to identify the best removal conditions for both heavy metal ions. The maximum experimental adsorption capacities of Ni2+ were 14.8, 17.8, and 16.4 mg/g for pistachio shell, nutshell, and agave fiber, respectively, whereas the maximum Pb2+ adsorption capacities of these residues were 6.25, 16.25, and 103.5 mg/g. Adsorption studies showed that CaCO3 concentration of aqueous solutions affected the removal of these heavy metal ions. However, these agricultural residues showed a competitive removal performance under different water hardness conditions. On the other hand, the setting and compressive strength of cement paste samples containing these residues loaded with heavy metals (i.e., as mineral admixtures) were also investigated. The results indicated that the setting process of the cement paste samples was accelerated when the agave fiber was used in its natural form (without heavy metals), as well as when the pistachio shell and nutshell were saturated with heavy metals. These findings were associated with the agricultural residue structure, which allowed better adherence to the cement particles by hydrating the elongated form of the agave fiber and the globular form of the nutshell and pistachio shell. Finally, the compressive strength of cement-based specimens was evaluated at 7, 14, and 28 days after their preparation. The results showed that the cement paste samples incorporating nutshell had a higher compressive strength than those of the pistachio shell and the agave fiber because of the high lignin content in the nutshell. This circular economy approach for the valorization and final disposal of agricultural wastes is attractive to face their waste management problem, and the secondary pollution problem generated by the spent adsorbents used in water treatment.
Longitudinal changes in white matter free water in cerebral small vessel disease: Relationship to cerebral blood flow and white matter fiber alterations
Authors: Lin Miao , Wang Shuyue , Hong Hui , Zhang Yao , Xie Linyun , Cui Lei , Liu Lingyun , Jiaerken Yeerfan , Yu Xinfeng , Zhang Minming , De Luca Alberto , Zhang Ruiting , Huang Peiyu
Published: December 2024

White matter (WM) free water (FW) is a potential imaging marker for cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). This study aimed to characterize longitudinal changes in WM FW and investigate factors contributing to its elevation in CSVD. We included 80 CSVD patients and 40 normal controls (NCs) with multi-modality MRI data. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured, and fiber alterations were assessed using total apparent fiber density (AFDt). FW were extracted from whole WM, white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and normal-appearing WM (NAWM). Baseline and longitudinal FW elevation were compared between patients and NCs, and between WMH and NAWM. We investigated whether baseline vascular risk factor score, CBF, and AFDt could predict longitudinal FW elevation. Association between cognition and WM FW in CSVD was also assessed. Results shown that FW was higher and increased faster in CSVD compared to NCs and in WMH compared to NAWM. Baseline AFDt predicted longitudinal FW elevation in CSVD patients, while CBF predicted FW changes only in controls. WM FW was associated with cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that CSVD is associated with a faster increase in WM FW. Hypoperfusion and WM fiber alterations might accelerate FW elevation, which is associated with cognitive decline.
The Impact of Urban art on Wellbeing: A Laboratory Study
Authors: Dehove Margot , Mikuni Jan , Podolin Nikita , Leder Helmut , Oberzaucher Elisabeth
Published: December 2024

Art has proven be an asset in maintaining and enhancing our wellbeing. Following a recent field study, the present laboratory investigation assessed whether and to what extent an interaction with art in urban public spaces can positively impact experienced wellbeing. Participants watched videos simulating an interaction with a parking-lot-sized intervention decorated with art, greenery (active control), or nothing (conventional control) in an urban setting. Before and after interacting with each video, participants’ anxiety, stress, positive and negative mood were measured. Subjective experiences of the location and the intervention were also collected. Results showed a unique pattern for the art: (1) while positive mood decreased for both active and conventional controls, it remained stable in the art and (2) exploratory analyses suggested a positive correlation between subjective experiences and wellbeing only for the art. Current results as well as differences and advantages of field and laboratory studies were discussed.