bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 4141692: Second-by-second monitoring of SpO
2
by wearable device during the six-minute walk test identifies patients at risk for worsening heart failure.
Authors: Sunayama Isamu , Min Kyung-Duk , Orihara Yoshiyuki , Asakura Masanori , Ishihara Masaharu
Published: November 2024

Background:
Assessment of exercise tolerance is crucial for risk stratification in patients with heart failure (HF), and the six-minute walk test (6MWT) is widely used. While the six-minute walk distance (6MWD) is an established metric, it shows significant variability among elderly patients due to numerous comorbidities and potential confounding factors, making relative risk assessment challenging. Therefore, a new comprehensive indicator for evaluating exercise tolerance in elderly patients with HF is required.

Objective:
This study aimed to evaluate the novel prognostic value of desaturation during the 6MWT, defined as the average decrease in peripheral oxygen saturation (ΔSpO
2
-Ex), in predicting rehospitalization in patients with HF.

Methods:
We retrospectively analyzed the data of 55 patients with acute HF aged ≥ 65 years who were prospectively registered at our hospital. The mean SpO
2
was calculated from data obtained at rest and during the 6MWT using a wearable pulse oximeter designed to record the SpO
2
value every second. ΔSpO
2
-Ex was defined as the difference between the highest SpO
2
at rest and average SpO
2
during the 6MWT. Patients were followed-up for 1 year for the composite outcome of rehospitalization due to HF exacerbation and cardiovascular death.

Results:
The mean age was 80.7 years, with 45 % being female. The mean 6MWD was 237.5 m, and the mean ΔSpO
2
-Ex was 5.8 %. Patients were categorized based on the cut-off values obtained from the ROC curve for both 6MWD and ΔSpO
2
-Ex. Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events when ΔSpO
2
-Ex exceeded 6.7 % compared to when the 6MWD was less than 220 m (HR 6.66, 95 % CI: 2.96-15.01, p<0.001 and HR 2.40, 95 % CI: 1.08-5.32, p=0.031). Additionally, the combination of shorter 6MWD and higher ΔSpO
2
-Ex was associated with a significantly higher incidence of cardiovascular events.

Conclusion:
ΔSpO
2
-Ex is a powerful and independent prognostic marker for cardiovascular events in elderly patients with HF, surpassing the predictive power of 6MWD. These findings suggest that incorporating ΔSpO
2
-Ex into routine clinical assessments could enhance the risk stratification and management of patients with HF.
Abstract 4141703: Body Mass Index and Waist-Hip Ratio -- Risk Factors for Aortic Valve Disease: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Zhang Chunxiao , Moser Ethan , EATON ANNE , Van't Hof Jeremy , Tang Weihong , Shah Amil , Folsom Aaron , Chen Lin
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Aortic valve disease (AVD) is common among older adults. Although body mass index (BMI) has been reported to be a risk factor for aortic valve stenosis (AS), it is unknown whether BMI or waist-hip ratio (WHR) is associated with aortic valve insufficiency (AI). Additionally, it is unknown whether there is a stronger association between BMI/WHR with AVD among Blacks compared with Whites.

Hypothesis:
Higher BMI/WHR is associated with an increased incidence of AS and AI in the ARIC study, a community-based cohort of Black and White adults.

Methods:
The analysis involved ARIC participants with echocardiograms at visit 5 (2011-2013) and visit 7 (2018-2019). BMI and WHR were ascertained from visit 5 and standardized by standard deviation (SD). Incident AVD between visits 5 and 7 was classified as aortic valve sclerosis, isolated AI, and AS regardless of AI, according to AHA guidelines. A multinomial regression model adjusted for multiple potential confounding variables, including age, sex, race, education, smoking status, drinking, diabetes, systolic blood pressure, antihypertensive medications, coronary heart disease, HDL-C LDL-C, and eGFR.

Results:
Of 1931 participants included in the analysis (mean age of 73.5 ± 4.1 years, 59.7% female, and 23.2% Black), 572 participants (29.6%) had incident AVD (n = 345 sclerosis, 159 pure AI, 68 AS). Higher BMI at visit 5 was associated with a greater incidence of aortic valve sclerosis (OR: 1.34 per 1-SD (5.78 kg/m
2
), 95% CI: 1.15-1.56) and AS (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.00-1.74) but was not associated with AI. Higher WHR was associated positively with aortic valve sclerosis (OR: 1.17 per 1-SD (0.08 unit), 95% CI: 1.00-1.36), AS (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.12-1.86), and also AI (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.01-1.53) (
Table 1
). There were no race-by-obesity interactions in all analyses.

Conclusion:
A higher BMI is associated with a higher risk of AS, but not AI. By contrast, increased WHR is a risk factor for both AS and AI. Further research is warranted to replicate this novel finding and define potential underlying mechanisms.
Abstract 4141714: Curcumol as a novel STlNG inhibitor suppresses type I interferon release to improve myocardial infarction
Authors: YANG NA
Published: November 2024

Background:
Myocardial infarction is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, often resulting in extensive myocardial cell death and the release of damage-associated molecular patterns. These DAMPs activate the Stimulator of Interferon Genes pathway, which subsequently induces the release of type I interferon and other pro-inflammatory cytokines, contributing to the inflammatory microenvironment and exacerbating cardiac dysfunction. Curcumol, a compound isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine zedoary turmeric, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. This study investigates the potential of Curcumol as a novel STING inhibitor to suppress type I interferon release and improve outcomes following MI.

Methods:
A mouse model of myocardial infarction was established by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery in vivo. Mice were treated with curcumin, and cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography. Post-myocardial infarction, macrophages were isolated and subjected to RNA-Seq analysis, which revealed that IFNβ1 was the most significantly downregulated transcription factor. Surface plasmon resonance assays were conducted to detect the direct binding of curcumol to the STING protein and validated in vivo using STING knockout mice. In vitro experiments were performed to assess the effect of curcumol on STING oligomerization and transport, utilizing co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence staining.

Result:
Curcumol treatment improved cardiac function in post-infarction mice, as evidenced by increased ejection fraction and reduced infarct size. In vitro, curcumol significantly reduced the release of type I interferons and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Mechanistically, curcumol inhibited STING ER-to-Golgi translocation by suppressing STING oligomerization, thereby inhibiting STING-dependent pathway activation. Compared to H-151, curcumol demonstrated favorable inhibitory effects and may be a potential novel STING inhibitor.

Conclusion:
Our study demonstrates that Curcumol, a compound isolated from the traditional Chinese medicine zedoary turmeric, shows significant potential as a novel STING inhibitor. These findings suggest that Curcumol is a promising STING inhibitor for improving outcomes following myocardial infarction by targeting and modulating the STING pathway.

Keywords: Curcumol, STING, Type I Interferon, Inflammation, myocardial infarction
Abstract 4141715: Detection and Quantification of Myocardial Infarct with Four Different Histological Staining Techniques
Authors: Meier Linnea , Wu Xiaobo , Toldo Stefano , Gourdie Robert
Published: November 2024

Background:
Precise quantification of myocardial infarct size in therapeutic studies is a key prerequisite to ensure reliable and demonstrative results, and supports the rapid translation of findings into clinical practice. However, current quantification methods are often highly dependent on hand tracing and pose challenges that may impact accuracy, user ease, cost, and timeliness of image analysis. Here, we developed a semi-automatic color-based algorithm capable of infarct region detection and quantification with four different histological staining techniques.

Methods:
This model consists of an algorithm based on the unique digital color differences between normal and scarred regions of histological tissue. Typically, multicolored images contain pixels that consist of three colors: red, green and blue. We observed a pattern in the computational color code proportions between unscarred and scarred regions of cardiac tissues in various staining approaches. Therefore, with the aid of MATLAB software, employing a color threshold to these color combinations can potentially identify and isolate the infarct region. In this study, mouse cardiac tissue images from four histological staining methods (masson’s trichrome (MTS), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), 2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) and picrosirius red (PSR)) were included to demonstrate the performance of our algorithm.

Results:
The algorithm effectively identified and produced a clear visualization of scar tissue for the four staining techniques (Figure). Notably, using the MTS image as a reference (panel A), the algorithm could detect the infarct region in a similar heart structure on the H&E image (panel B), which is infrequently used for fibrotic tissue assessment. The infarct region was also successfully extracted and masked. Further, we developed a user-friendly graphic interface to quantify the infarct area and potential volume if the entire heart is sectioned for analysis.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, we demonstrate that our algorithm is capable of accurately identifying and isolating cardiac infarct regions using color-based methods, as well as quantifying area and volumetric data from necrotic tissue.
Abstract 4141717: Feasibility of point-of-wear patient satisfaction surveys to validate patient-centered product enhancements: results from over 300,000 patients for long-term ambulatory cardiac monitoring
Authors: Battisti Anthony , Santee Ross , Fan Alice , Pinkerton Relana , Mead Hardwin , Turakhia Mintu
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Although 14-day patch-based long-term continuous ambulatory ECG monitoring (LTCM) has shown greater diagnostic yield and lower retest rates compared to other rhythm monitoring modalities, wear can still be limited by factors related to patient comfort and acceptance. Rather than data from small, non-generalizable focus groups, patient survey data at point of care offered to all patients may be valuable in collecting quality improvement data on product experience and satisfaction. We assessed the feasibility of this approach to compare patient satisfaction associated with the prior generation LTCM to that of a new generation, FDA-cleared LTCM product designed with patient-centered features, including a more breathable adhesive, waterproof housing, thinner profile, and lighter weight.

Methods:
Starting in March 2018, we implemented a survey provided to all patients prescribed Zio® XT LTCM (iRhythm Technologies, San Francisco, CA) to complete and return at end of wear. The survey was completed via paper card or digitally via a web address printed on the card. The survey included questions regarding ease of use, comfort, ability for normal activity, and willingness to wear the device again. Scores of 4 or 5 (i.e., Agree or Strongly Agree) on a Likert scale were considered affirmative responses. Beginning in April 2022, the new Zio® Monitor device was launched for use and the same survey method was used. We compared survey responses for Monitor and XT between Jan 1 and Dec 31, 2023.

Results:
Among 334,054 respondents, the new LTCM was associated with a greater proportion of affirmative responses across all survey categories (Table 1), with the largest gains in comfort of wear (79.1% vs. 64.7%; p<0.001), ability for normal activity (90.7% vs. 83.3%; p<0.001) and willingness to wear again (89.9% vs. 82.6%; p<0.001).

Conclusion:
Patient survey data for post-market quality assessment is feasible for digital health technologies, in this case leading to over 300,000 total respondents in one year. Measures of patient satisfaction were higher with the new device, which may be due to patient-centered product enhancements.z
Abstract 4141750: Catheter Ablation for AF Management in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mahalleh Mehrdad , Soleimani Hamidreza , Pazoki Mohammad Reza , Maleki Saba , Dastjerdi Parham , Zafarmandi Sahar , Shamshiri Khamene Sima , Mohammad Khawajah Izat , Tabassum Shehroze , Bhardwaj Rahul , Mattumpuram Jishanth , Kaplan Andrew , Vaseghi Marmar , Bozorgi Ali , Hosseini Kaveh , Tzeis Stylianos
Published: November 2024

Background:
The latest guidelines advocate for catheter ablation (CA) over standard medical therapy (SMT) for managing atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, significant knowledge gaps exist regarding the effectiveness of CA vs. SMT in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods:
PubMed, Scopus, and Embase until February 2024 were systematically searched. Given the limited number of randomized studies, propensity score-matched observational studies comparing CA with SMT in AF patients with HFpEF were also included. The primary outcome was a composite endpoint of all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization.

Results:
Eight studies that enrolled 17,717 SMT and 2537 CA patients were included. CA was associated with a significantly lower risk of the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization (HR 0.69, 95% CI: 0.40-0.98). The risk of HF hospitalization (HR 0.48, 95% CI: 0.17-0.80), cardiovascular mortality (HR 0.27, 95% CI: -0.06-0.61), and AF recurrence (HR 0.53, 95% CI: 0.37-0.70) were also lower in the CA group.

Conclusion:
CA demonstrated significant cardiovascular morbidity and mortality benefits when compared to SMT in the HFpEF population.
Abstract 4141875: Individualized Ablation Strategies Optimize First Pass Isolation and Minimize Pulmonary Vein Reconnection During Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Junarta Joey , Qiu Jessica , Cheng Austin , Barbhaiya Chirag , Jankelson Lior , Holmes Douglas , Kushnir Alexander , Knotts Robert , Yang Felix , Bernstein Scott , Park David , Chinitz Larry , Aizer Anthony
Published: November 2024

Background:
First pass isolation (FPI) improves freedom from AF, while acute pulmonary vein reconnection (PVR) predicts AF recurrence. There is little data to predict FPI or acute PVR based on individual patient characteristics. Height is a risk factor for incident AF and may be associated with AF recurrence after ablation.

Hypothesis:
We hypothesize that patient-specific factors can predict lack of FPI and acute PVR. If such factors are identified and used to modify ablation strategies, FPI will increase and acute PVR will reduce in those undergoing paroxysmal AF ablation.

Methods:
Patients were ablated utilizing CARTO3 with THERMOCOOL SMARTTOUCH SF catheters at 50W, 2mm overlapping lesions. A derivation cohort of patients were treated with standard Ablation Index (AI) targets of 450 on anterior and 350 on posterior surfaces. Subsequently, ablation strategies would be modified and outcomes were reassessed.

Results:
In the derivation cohort, median height (<172cm vs
>
172cm) was the strongest predictor of FPI among all variables (age, sex, height, weight, BSA, diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, LA size), (B=1.68 p<0.01). When patients were treated with standard AI targets, patients
>
172cm had reduced FPI (50/107 [47%] vs 67/99 [68%] p<0.01) and increased acute PVR (24/107 [22%] vs 67/99 [11%] p=0.04) compared to patients <172cm. A subsequent cohort of 56 patients
>
172cm were treated with augmented AI targets of 550 on anterior and 350 on posterior surfaces. When compared to patients
>
172cm treated with standard AI targets, FPI increased (37/56 [65%] vs 50/107 [47%] p=0.02) and acute PVR decreased (1/56 [2%] vs 24/107 [22%] p<0.01). There was no difference in total procedure time (01:23:31 ± 00:20:07 vs 01:23:39 ± 00:20:05 p=0.98) or FPI time (01:05:10 ± 00:17:52 vs 01:03:01 ± 00:17:10 p=0.51) between groups.

Conclusions:
Height is associated with a lack of FPI and increased acute PVR. Using AI guided radiofrequency ablation, height-based adjustment of AI targets increase acute FPI and reduce acute PVR without affecting procedure times. Personalized AF ablation strategies optimize acute ablation outcomes.
The Myth of a Bipartisan Golden Age for U.S. Foreign Policy: The Truman-Eisenhower Consensus Remains
Authors: Friedman Jeffrey A.
Published: November 2024

Scholars and practitioners of U.S. foreign policy commonly describe the early Cold War as a lost golden age of bipartisan consensus. This article uses public opinion data, congressional voting patterns, and party platform statements to refute this conventional wisdom. In fact, the core internationalist principles that enjoyed bipartisan agreement during the Truman and Eisenhower administrations retain widespread approval from Democrats and Republicans today. Enduring support for this Truman-Eisenhower consensus is concealed by the way that recent presidents have enlarged the United States’ foreign policy agenda to pursue policies that historically did not generate bipartisanship, such as fighting climate change or conducting decades-long projects in armed nation-building. Rising political divisions in U.S. foreign policy are thus primarily a result of Democrats and Republicans deploying global influence in new ways rather than renouncing traditional international commitments. These findings refute widespread claims that political polarization has undermined traditional conceptions of U.S. global leadership or depleted Washington's usable power.
Competing Visions of Restraint
Authors: Priebe Miranda , Schuessler John , Rooney Bryan , Castillo Jasen
Published: November 2024

At least since the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, a subset of realists, conservatives, and progressives have called for greater restraint in U.S. grand strategy. Given that restraint is a key position in the grand strategy debate, this article explores the variations within restraint's big tent in greater detail. Drawing on writings by and interviews with advocates of restraint, we identify the underlying beliefs that have led these disparate groups to converge on restraint. We find that there are competing visions of restraint. Realists want to prevent the emergence of regional hegemons without provoking great power war; conservatives seek to preserve what they identify as the American way of life; and progressives are motivated by the desire to combat inequality and injustice at home and abroad. Even within each group, there are a range of underlying beliefs and foreign policy preferences, and more divisions have emerged in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and China's rise. We explore how these groups’ positions may evolve in the future as the threat environment continues to change and new policy questions emerge.
Needs and Potentials of Professional Diaspora Engagement in Knowledge, Skills and Technology Transfer in Ethiopia
Authors: Yesigat Abate , Bogale Mekonnen , Jibat Nega , Hadis Sebsib , Tafese Tibebu
Published: November 2024

This study was conducted with the aim of assessing the needs for knowledge, skills and technology transfer in Ethiopia and the potential of the Ethiopian professional diaspora to engage with these needs. To this effect, primary data was collected through key informant and group interviews, focus group discussions with ministries, universities, referral/teaching hospitals and other sector officials, and experts, selected purposively. In addition, primary data was collected through an online survey from the professional diaspora, selected using purposive and availability sampling techniques. Secondary data was collected from previous reports, academic works and archival sources. The results of this study show that most of Ethiopia’s institutions have enormous knowledge, skills and technology needs. Correspondingly, the data indicates that there is a large professional diaspora that could address these needs and that most of the professionals have the experience, interest and intent to support their home country. Based on the findings, there should be strong institutional arrangements and collaborative actions to facilitate and enhance professional diaspora engagement.
Between Representing a Story of Migration and Re-Imagining a Tale of Exoticism in Abdelkader Benali’s De Langverwachte
Authors: Baba Nouzha
Published: November 2024

In this article, I analyse the Moroccan-Dutch author Abdelkader Benali’s novel De Langverwachte (The Long-awaited, 2002), which narrates a story of migration from Morocco to the metropolitan city of Rotterdam. Through a close reading, I delve into the way the author employs exoticism as a particular practice of “cultural translation;” of seeing, speaking, and thinking onto migrant people as exotic Others. The novel represents migrant characters through exoticist cultural codes, among which: mystery, extraordinariness, strangeness, romantic fantasy, and superstition. Its mode of narration testifies to both a fascination with and a fear from the culturally unfamiliar and different Other. The narrator’s speculative representation of migrants’ cultural and mental world, both in their homeland and in the host society, reinforces the Other’s absolute difference, his unfamiliarity and strangeness. I argue, then, that the text represents a touching story of migration as if re-imagining a tale of exoticism.
Introduction
Authors: Berrens Dominik
Published: November 2024

This issue of Daphnis will examine the use of invective between scholars in the early modern period. The introduction places the findings of the individual contributions in a broader context.
The Arbitration Agreement from the Perspective of Qatari Law
Authors: El Farag Mohamed Salem Abou , Elgarhe Khaled
Published: November 2024

The arbitration agreement is the first stage of arbitration and the basis of the commitment of the parties to an arbitration. Arbitration is consensual by nature and cannot proceed without such an agreement. If there is no agreement to arbitrate, the disputing parties have no choice but to resort to the state courts to resolve their dispute. In this regard, the importance of the arbitration agreement becomes evident, as it requires several formal and substantive conditions for it to be valid. The consequences of the validity or otherwise of the arbitration agreement may include lack of jurisdiction, the non-extension of the arbitration agreement to third parties, and the ultimate invalidity of the arbitral award. Accordingly, this research will be dedicated to studying the arbitration agreement and its implications as provided by Qatar’s Arbitration Law No. 2 of 2017. The study will also analyze court judgments related to this agreement and its implications, both within Qatar and in other Middle-Eastern states that have adopted the uncitral Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration.
Introduction: Japonisme and Fashion
Authors: Emery Elizabeth , Rado Mei Mei
Published: November 2024

This introduction to a special issue dedicated to ‘Japonisme and Fashion’ evokes the influence of fashion within the field of Japonisme, sketches the history of the field, summarizes its recent developments, and outlines the issue’s contents. The modern sartorial practices and global fashion industry inspired by the styles, motifs, and concepts of Japanese dress shed new light on the inherent multiculturalism of Japonisme itself.
Figuring Femme
Authors: Lykke Nina
Published: November 2024

Approaching femme as a figuration, a political fiction that merges critique of the here-and-now with an ethics of affirmation, driven by desires for an elsewhere/otherwise, the article engages in an experimental – autophenomenographic, poetic, and philosophical – figuring process. The aim is to foreground critical-affirmative potentials of femme and femme-inism in queer and posthumanist perspectives. Starting from a poem that spells out the author’s process of becoming-femme, the article establishes a conversation between the poem’s personal framing and theoretical interventions, selected from archives of critical posthumanist, queer, philosophy in the feminine, transgender and femme theory. The figuring process is based on a vignette methodology. Each of the poem’s stanzas give rise to a vignette, linking the poetic images with resonating theory fragments stitched together to an assemblage. Rather than as an attempt to synthesize a seamlessly interwoven theorization of femme, the figuring process is a meditation on the assembling of unruly fragments.
Astragalus kanjuensis, a new species of section Aegacantha (Galegeae-Fabaceae) from Swat, Pakistan
Authors: ULLAH ZAHID , KHAN AMJAD , SULTAN AMIR , ALI AHMAD , MUMTAZ ABDUL SAMAD
Published: November 2024

A new species Astragalus kanjuensis, is described and illustrated from Kanju Town, Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. The new species is morphologically similar to A. vallis-astoris Podlech & Zarre, but is characterized by densely white pilose young branches, short stipules 3.5–7 mm long, with 1–3 longitudinal nerves, elongate 2.5–6.3 cm long peduncles, pilose with white hairs, two-flowered raceme, whitish-membranous pilose bracts with white hairs, pedicels 3.5–5.5 mm long, densely pubescent with white hairs, relatively long standard up to 32 mm, ovary short-stipitate, style glabrous in the middle, legumes elliptic to oblong, 14–21×4–6.5 mm, beak abruptly curved 2–4 mm densely pubescent with white spreading hairs.
Six new species of Aspidistra (Asparagaceae: Convallarioideae) from China and Vietnam
Authors: LIN CHUN-RUI , NGUYEN KHANG SINH , QIN YING , ZOU CHUN-YU , XU WEI-BIN , LIU YAN
Published: November 2024

This paper continues to publish new discovered from successive investigation of the species diversity of the Aspidistra genus in recent years. Six new species of Aspidistra (Asparagaceae) are described and illustrated: four from China, Aspidistra dentosa, A. dissecta, A. dongxingensis (SW Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region) and A. anlongensis (SW Guizhou Province), and two from northern Vietnam, A. longibracteata and A. backanensis. All described species are local endemics of southern China and northern Vietnam. Except for Aspidistra dongxingensis living in non-limestone areas, all other species are restricted to limestone regions. The morphology, ecology, phenology, distribution and photographs are provided for all novel taxa.
A taxonomic notes on Mouriri (Olisbeoideae, Melastomataceae): Clarifying two little-known species from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, with three new synonyms
Authors: VÖLTZ RAFAEL ROSENSTOCK , GOLDENBERG RENATO
Published: November 2024

Based on new samples from the Atlantic Forest between northern São Paulo and southern Bahia, Brazil, we clarify taxonomic relationships in two little-known species of Mouriri. As a result, we synonymize M. megasperma and M. sellowiana under M. arborea, and M. bahiensis under M. regeliana. We designate a lectotype for M. sellowiana, as the holotype was destroyed during World War II. In addition, we present updated morphological descriptions, data on geographic distribution, conservation status assignments, illustrations, and comments on taxonomic and nomenclatural aspects of M. arborea and M. regeliana. Photographs based on fresh material of M. arborea are presented.
Reinstatement of Portulaca badamica from P. tuberosa with critical notes on variation in P. tuberosa
Authors: DALAVI JAGDISH VISHNU , TAMBOLI ASIF , PUJAR RAMESH , SALIYAVAR BASAVARAJ , YADAV SHRIRANG
Published: November 2024

Portulacaceae is a monogeneric family with a genus Portulaca comprising more than 150 species worldwide. In India, it is represented by 11 taxa of which three species are endemic. Portulaca tuberosa is a polymorphic species distributed in the Indian subcontinent to North Australia. During revisionary studies of the genus, authors collected different populations of P. tuberosa from India with different morphotypes. Detailed studies were carried out on the variation of P. tuberosa with the pictorial presentation. Furthermore, P. badamica is much distinct species in Clade-Pilosa despite this, misleadingly some workers synonymized the species under P. tuberosa. However, morphological, molecular, and SEM studies show P. badamica and P. tuberosa are unrelated and distinct species. The present work also highlights the variation in P. tuberosa which will avoid further confusion while describing the new taxon as well as the reinstatement of P. badamica from P. tuberosa with the help of all supportive data.
The Use of Dynamic Cone Penetrometer to Predict California Bearing Ratio Value of Subgrade Soils
Authors: Halala Yitagesu , Tafesse Samuel , Teferi Henok
Published: November 2024

California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is an indirect method mostly used to investigate the strength of subgrade material for highway design. The CBR of subgrade materials can be determined from costly and time-taking laboratory or in situ CBR tests. These limitations suggest the need for an easy and low-cost in situ direct method to estimate the CBR of subgrade materials. Dynamic cone penetration (DCP) is easy, quick, and economical in situ test in geotechnical uses. However, the use of DCP test to evaluate the CBR of subgrade material is condition specific i.e., local conditions should be considered before adopting existing correlations in engineering design. The objective of this study is therefore to develop a correlation that can predict the CBR of subgrade material from the dynamic cone penetration index (DCPI). Several laboratory and field tests including Plasticity index (PI), Liquid limit (LL) and Plastic limit (PL), in situ density, and classification (sieve analysis and hydrometer analysis), CBR (unsoaked), in situ moisture content, and DCP were conducted. The suitability of the existing model to predict CBR from DCPI was checked. The prediction model was then developed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The result of the SPSS analysis is log (CBR) = 2.954 – 1.496log (DCPI) with R2 = 0.943. The result shows that a good correlation exist between the dynamic cone penetration indexes (DCPI) and unsoaked CBR values.
Validity of Laws for Predicting Lifespan of Welded Points Under Variable Loading
Authors: Tikri Bianzeube , Wel-Doret Djonglibet , Dao Dougabka
Published: November 2024

The article examines the validity of the laws for predicting the life of welded points under variable amplitude loading, using three steels (HE360D, XE360D and XES) supplied by ArcelorMittal to Renault for the manufacture of automobile chassis parts. The fatigue tests revealed two modes of failure: cracking of the sheets at medium stresses and shearing of the molten core at high forces. For lifespan prediction, three damage laws were studied: Miner's law, Mesmacque and Amrouche law, and a proposed model. Miner's law, despite its simplicity and wide distribution, shows notable limitations in the presence of variable loads, because it does not take into account the interactions between successive load levels. The law of Mesmacque and Amrouche uses a damage indicator linked to the FN curve of the material, allowing a cycle by cycle estimation of the residual lifespan. However, it remains non-conservative at low effort. The proposed model, based on Chaboche law, overcomes some of its theoretical drawbacks, notably the dependence on the calibration parameters of the SN curve. By fitting this curve within a specific calibration window, the model improves forecast accuracy by taking into account parameter variability. This proposed model provides more reliable lifespan predictions that better correlate with experimental results, especially for low effort levels where Miner's law fails. The validation approach is based on comparing the predictions of the damage laws with the experimental results, by evaluating the deviation from the first bisector of the graphs. The results show that Miner's law is unsuitable for effort levels, while the proposed model turns out to be the most precise and conservative. The law of Mesmacque and Amrouche falls between the two, presenting a certain justice but remaining overall non-conservative. In conclusion, the proposed model offers a better match with experimental data, making its predictions more reliable for industrial applications.
A Case of Grade III Obesity in the Elderly Combined with Multisystem Disease Patient Underwent Sleeve Gastrectomy Nursing Throughout Hospitalization
Authors: Hu Man , Lin Qingran , Lai Huixiang , Liu Min , Yang Jingge , Wu Lina , Han Jinfen , Guan Bingsheng , Li Weige , Wu Zhengpeng
Published: November 2024

Background: Obesity is a complex, multifactorial disease that has a negative impact on health. In 2020, obesity affects about 42% of the global population, and the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Chinese adults is expected to reach 61% by 2030. Methods: Summarize the nursing experience of a case of elderly grade III obesity combined with multisystem disease treated with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Nursing points include acute heart failure care, coronary heart disease care, obesity other related comorbidities care, skin care, medication care, SG perioperative care, nutritional care, pipeline care, anticipatory psychological care and health education. Results: After the patient underwent individualized treatment and nursing, his vital signs were stable, the abdominal incision healed well, no adverse events occurred during hospitalization, and he was discharged smoothly 11d after surgery. Conclusion: This patient has a variety of metabolic diseases, during hospitalization, we should track the patient's examination and laboratory tests, and pay attention to their physical and psychological care. Older people due to the degradation of various physiological systems, their metabolic function and the poor ability to respond to various diseases, the weight loss effect may be not as good as that of young patients. It is necessary to explain the patients and a longer follow-up time to observe the weight loss effect.
Measuring Total Factor Productivity in General Technical Progress Framework
Authors: Qinli Lei
Published: November 2024

The classical Solow's total factor productivity accounting assumes that technical progress is Hicks neutral, which is a special situation in the reality of world economy. This paper expands the setting of technical progress into general technical progress framework, which can cover Hicks neutral technical progress, Harrod neutral technical progress, Solow-neutral technical progress, and various factor-biased technical changes. According to the principle of statistical index number, this paper decomposes the output index into a total factor input index and a total factor productivity index, and adopts normalized CES production function with factor-augmenting technical progress to derive the calculation formulas of the total factor input index and the total factor productivity index, and constructs a new economic growth accounting system, and finds the counteraction and compensation mechanism for diminishing marginal returns. If the factor substitution elasticity is 1 or there is no technical progress bias and factor allocation bias, then the new accounting equation degenerates into the classic Solow growth accounting equation. The new accounting system can measure the influence of total factor input and total factor productivity to economic growth, but also can measure the influences of factor input intensity and factor allocation bias in the growth rate of total factor input, and the influences of technical progress intensity and technical progress bias in the growth rate of total factor productivity. Therefore it is more precise and accurate than classical method.
Water Footprint Reduction in Oil and Gas Refineries through Water Reuse: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hashemi Fallah , Young Stephanie , Hashemi Hassan , Leiviskä Tiina , Shafea Leila , Hajivand Marjan , Borj Babak
Published: November 2024

Oil and gas refineries are highly water-intensive industrial settings, with effluent containing a significant level of pollution stemming from diverse organic and inorganic compounds. Besides adhering to discharge standards for industrial effluent, incorporating treated oil refinery effluent (ORE) into the production cycle can play a pivotal role in curbing water consumption. In recent years, there has been research into different approaches to reclaiming ORE. Yet, selecting treatment methods that are technically, economically, and environmentally effective is crucial to preventing resource waste. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the last two decades of literature on methods and technologies used for ORE treatment. Based on the inclusion criteria, the final screening included 82 studies, with acceptable agreement assessed using Cohen's inter-examiner kappa equal to 0.86. The included studies were of biological treatment (n = 27), physicochemical processes (n = 12), advanced purification processes (n = 16), membrane-based technologies (n = 15), and green technologies (n = 13). This comprehensive review showed that the advanced membrane-based techniques are effective in the removal of pollutants from ORE for several reasons, such as reducing the consumption of chemicals, high efficiency, and ease of setup and maintenance. However, combined methods with a focus on membrane-based processes (e.g. UF-RO) are the most promising options for the reclamation of ORE. Since some effluent treatment methods require the use of chemicals and energy to run, future research should focus on environmentally friendly methods and the use of renewable energy.
Calculation Method Based on Flower Petal Area and Other Plant Leaf Spot Area
Authors: Ma Shengjian , Wang Jian , Guo Junxian
Published: November 2024

In order to calculate the area of irregular shapes such as plant leaves and diseased spots or flower petals, this paper presents a new method to calculate them by using flood fill algorithm, HSV color space, improved k-means algorithm and morphological operation. First, 501 butterfly petal images and pathological leaf images of Bauhinia and phyllotaxus were collected, and then flood was used Fill algorithm selects the disease-free area and records the selected pixel value. HSV color space conversion is applied to the image to facilitate the segmentation of leaves. Then, the improved k-means algorithm is used to extract the binary image of leaves and record the pixel value of the outer contour with morphological closed operation. Finally, the proportion and truth of the disease spots of plant leaves are obtained by calculating the pixel value and the real value of the rectangle in the sampling area Real area. Compared with the results of artificial labeling, the average accuracy of petal area and lesion area of Phalaenopsis was 96.3% and 96.61%, respectively. It can be seen that the program can calculate the area of irregular shape of plant surface accurately. In conclusion, this method can replace the artificial grid method to calculate the information of plant leaf area and disease proportion, and effectively reduce the work intensity of experimental personnel.
The Influence of Sleep Problems on Burnout and Academic Performance of Students in Community Development Training Institutes in Tanzania
Authors: Joshua Joel
Published: November 2024

This article examined the influence of sleep problems on academic burnout and academic performance of 640 students in Community Development Training Institutes (CDTIs). Burnout has been increasingly a psychological, health and educational concern. Mixed findings have been reported by past studies on this topic. While on one side negative relationships have been reported, on the other hand, results have been reporting no or positive relationship between sleep problems and both burnout and academic performance. This study was an attempt to contribute to the debate through three specific objectives namely; to identify academic burnout and its perceived sources among college students; identify sleep problems among college students; and explain academic performance from academic burnout and sleep problems among college students. Data were collected using one general questionnaire, composed of The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey (MBSS) for measuring academic burnout, the Sleep Quality Scale (SQS) for measuring sleep problems, and a section inquiring demographic and personal information, such as sex, age, employment status, marital status and level or year of study. Data were descriptively analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). To explain academic performance from academic burnout and sleep problems, logistic Regression Analysis was performed. Results indicated that Academic Burnout was explained by the year of study, sleep problems; and perceived sources of academic burnout such as review time and examination/tests. Further, while academic burnout did not explain academic performance in terms of semester GPA, sleep problems did. It was concluded that both academic burnout and sleep problems are prevalent among college students in Tanzania. Further the perceived sources of academic burnout by students are not necessarily the real factors explaining academic burnout of the college students. It was further concluded that sleep problems and year of the study determine both academic burnout and academic performance. Practical implications are discussed with recommendations to both students and colleges administrations made.
Influential Factors of Indonesian Cocoa Export: Evidence from FMOLS and DOLS Approaches
Authors: Agbolosoo John , Midamba Dick , Massaquoi Ibrahim , Sari Ratna
Published: November 2024

The study investigated the determinants of cocoa exports using both FMOLS and DOLS approaches. The time series data were obtained from FAOSTAT and ICCO websites from the year 1990 to 2022. ADF and PP stationary unit roots were conducted to examine the stationarity of the variables while Johansen cointegration was used to verify the cointegrating among the variables. The outcome of the Johansen cointegration analysis suggests the existence of a cointegration relationship among the eight variables, indicating the presence of long-run relationships among the variables. The estimated results revealed that cocoa productivity, domestic cocoa production, domestic cocoa supply, exchange rates, and world cocoa prices affect Indonesian cocoa exports. Based on the estimated results and discussion, the study draws a conclusion that cocoa productivity, domestic cocoa production, exchange rates, and world cocoa prices positively and statistically significantly influenced cocoa exports while domestic cocoa supply negatively affected Indonesian cocoa exports. The study recommends that the government of Indonesia should stabilize the fluctuating exchange rates and encourage cocoa production via higher productivity by practicing farm rehabilitation practices to increase productivity and cocoa beans for exports. Moreover, the supply of cocoa beans should also be increased by increasing domestic producer prices. These key determinants are crucial for policymakers and industry stakeholders to understand and address to enhance the competitiveness and growth of the cocoa export industry in Indonesia.
Aspects of Growth, Diet, and Reproduction of Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) in a Hypertrophic Milieu, the Municipal Lake of Yaoundé, Cameroon
Authors: Messu-Mandeng Françoise , Nomo-Leka Marguerite , Nlend-Batum Judif
Published: November 2024

The Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, is a highly valued fish species in Africa for subsistence and commercial purposes. However, overfishing activities in non-supervised lakes or reservoirs threaten its availability. In the view of contributing to the database on the life history traits of this species in Cameroon and supporting its sustainable management, the present study investigated the growth patterns, food preferences, and reproductive aspects of O. niloticus in a hypertrophic milieu, the Yaoundé Municipal Lake, from May to October 2018. Fish specimens were sampled, measured, weighed, and sexed. The digestive tract of each specimen and the females’ gonads were collected. The intestines were measured, and the stomach contents were identified. The females’ reproductive aspects were determined. Overall, 101 specimens were collected and distributed among 48 (47.5%) males and 53 (52.5%) females, with a sex ratio of 1: 1.1. In this hypoxic (1.35 ± 0.4 mg/L) and highly conductive (210.5 ± 56.9 µS/cm) milieu, O. niloticus displayed a relatively good condition (Kn > 1) throughout the sampling period and negative allometric growth patterns for both sexes (b < 3; p < 0.001). Materials from plant origin were the preferred prey types, with an index of relative importance (IRI) of 78.20%; meanwhile, mud and materials from animal origin were secondary prey items (IRI: 13 ‒ 17%). The relative gut length (RGL) value above 3.0 and the foraging activity on detritus suggest that O. niloticus has an herbivorous or detritivorous dietary habit and is a bottom-feeder. Female length at first maturity (L50) was 17 cm. Their gonado-somatic index (GSI) showed sexual activity throughout the whole sampling period, with the peak spawning phase happening in August. The absolute fecundity of gravid females varied between 316 and 1816 oocytes (942 ± 430 oocytes), and the relative fecundity ranged from 1–5 oocytes/gram of body weight (3 ±1 oocytes/g). The results highlight the performance of the Nile tilapia in this ecosystem and provide information for its sustainable use and improvement of fish culture.
Into the Buzzing World: Integrating Artwork with Fieldwork to Learn About Bees
Authors: Huang Luyao , Fang Xue , Yang Daihu , Wang Zhanjun , He Min , Chu Hualun , Zhang Qing
Published: November 2024

This article describes a pedagogical approach that integrated artistic expression with experiential fieldwork to enhance pupils’ learning of bees. Initially, pupils were tasked with creating an artwork of a bee or bees based on their preconceived notions, allowing teachers to identify their prior ideas of bees. Afterward, an immersive field activity was conducted to provide pupils with an opportunity to close-up observe live honey and native bees in canola fields and their pollination processes. Through teacher-guided explorations, pupils systematically inspected the morphology of various bee species, relating their external structures to associated functions. The fieldwork allowed for detailed observations of bees’ features, such as the proboscis, antennae, and legs, and their roles in nectar collection and pollen distribution. In addition, exposure to honey and native bees informed pupils of the differences in their stinging, nesting and sociality. Pupils’ summative reflections post-fieldwork suggest that the immersive fieldwork enabled multi-sensory modes of learning barely available in a traditional classroom setting. By juxtaposing the new insights from field observations with the prior ideas of bees embodied in their initial artworks, pupils achieved gains in both their conceptual understandings and perceptual knowledge about bees. Pupils acknowledged deeper understandings of bee anatomy, pollination processes and the diversity within bee species. This approach to learning about bees epitomizes the value of empirical investigation for advancing pupils’ scientific practices and understanding life science core ideas of how animals' external structures fulfill various functions and of how plants and pollinators are interdependent, as highlighted in the Next Generation Science Standards. The integration of artwork creation and experiential fieldwork exemplifies an effective pedagogical approach for enhancing pupils' engagement and learning of biological ideas.