bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 4122369: Beyond Closure: A Case Report on Coronary Steal Syndrome by Previously Embolized Internal Mammary Artery Side Branch
Authors: Fuentes Jose , Garcia Almonte Karla , Suero Claudia , Urena Neme Ana Paula , Tarafa Jorge , Urena V Pedro
Published: November 2024

Background:
Internal mammary artery (IMA) side branch flow diversion post- coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and its role in coronary steal syndrome remains controversial. However, evident association persists when substantial side branches stem from the IMA, possibly due to relatively lower peripheral resistance as compared to higher coronary resistance. Intervention has shown promise in ameliorating reversible ischemia in these cases. Recanalization of previously occluded side branch is rare and has only been reported within a 6 month period. We report a case of recanalization of a previously occluded side-branch after 4 years with recurrence of symptoms.

Case:
A 63-year-old male underwent CABG with LIMA-LAD in 2020 and coil embolization of LIMA side branch for symptomatic coronary steal syndrome (figure 1). Angina recurred 3 years later, leading to right coronary artery stent placement. He now presents with palpitations and dyspnea on exertion. Vital signs and physical exam was unremarkable. ECG showed a normal sinus rhythm with no signs of ischemia. A 24-hour Holter showed significant polymorphic ventricular ectopy and episodes of sustained ventricular tachycardia (arrhythmic burden 12.4%). Transthoracic echocardiogram showed an ejection fraction of 71% and slightly decreased left ventricular global longitudinal strain (-16.6%).

Decision-making:
A diagnostic cardiac catheterization was performed which showed patency of bypass and stent with no signs of occlusion or restenosis, rather revealing a permeable, previously occluded side-branch (figure 2A) and resurgent coronary steal phenomenon. Repeat coiling was performed, achieving complete cessation of flow (figure 2B) and evident increased flow to the LAD. Resolution of symptoms was observed and post-procedure Holter showed normal sinus rhythm with no arrhythmic changes.

Conclusion:
Recanalization of an IMA side branch after complete occlusion with multiple coils is rare, particularly beyond 6 months. This appears to be the first reported case of the phenomenon, occurring after 4 years. Administration of heparin for recent stent placement, continuation of oral antiplatelet therapy and distal coil location may have contributed to restoration of flow, despite the presence of intraluminal coils. Repeat coiling proved successful in relieving symptoms.
Abstract 4123478: The Impact of Social Determinants on Growth at 10 Years After the Norwood Procedure: Results from the Single Ventricle Reconstruction (SVR) Trial III
Authors: Pruitt Cathleen , Lambert Linda , Ou Zhining , Goldberg Caren , Presson Angela , Aljiffry Alaa , Anderson Jeffrey , Detterich Jon , Frischhertz Benjamin , Lupton Katherine , McCrary Andrew , McCrindle Brian , McCormick Amanda , Newburger Jane , Pizarro Christian , Ravishankar Chitra , Rudd Nancy , Shah Amee , Trachtenberg Felicia , Zyblewski Sinai , Minich Luann
Published: November 2024

Background:
The impact of social determinants of health (SDOH) on growth in patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is understudied. In a secondary analysis of the Pediatric Heart Network SVR III study, we explored the impact of SDOH on longitudinal somatic growth through age 10 years in transplant-free survivors with HLHS.

Methods:
Z-scores adjusted for age for weight (WAZ), height (HAZ), and BMI (BMIZ) were categorized at age 10 years. To assess relationships between z-scores at 10 years and SDOH variables, we modeled all annual measurements for each z-score outcome using a multivariable mixed effects regression that included an interaction between the SDOH predictor and age. We included Hollingshead Score (HH) as a SDOH marker. A higher HH indicates better family socioeconomic status.

Results:
Of 555 subjects enrolled in the SVR trial, 191 had 10-year growth data. The mean WAZ and HAZ were below normal, with values of -0.3±1.3 (p<0.001) and -0.8±1.2 (p=0.002), respectively. BMIZ did not differ from normal, with a mean value of 0.0±1.3 (p=0.87). WAZ and HAZ were <-2 in 9% and 13%, respectively; BMIZ was <-2 in 4% and >2 in 5%. At birth [coefficient (95% CI)], only higher HH was associated with higher HAZ [0.01 (0.01,0.03), p=0.02]. On multivariable analysis, lower WAZ at 10 years was associated with higher HH [-0.02 (-0.03,0.01)], private insurance [-0.5 (-0.85,-0.16)], and father with college education [-0.64 (-1.06,-0.22)] (p<0.04 for all). Lower BMIZ was associated with higher HH [-0.01 (-0.03,0)] and private insurance [-0.47 (-0.89,-0.04)] (p<0.05 for all). No SDOH factors were independently associated with HAZ at 10 years.

Conclusion:
Higher SDOH, indicated by private insurance, higher HH and higher father’s education, was associated with lower WAZ and BMIZ at age 10 years. This may be reflective of the general population as children with lower SDOH are at risk for high BMI. It is reassuring that few were under- and over-weight. Survivor bias of children with higher SDOH may also be influencing these results; however, these findings deserve further exploration.
Abstract 4124307: Outcome of Obesity in Atrial Fibrillation - Insights from The National Inpatient Sample Database
Authors: Santos Argueta Allan , Ali Junaid , Rivera Boadla Marlon , Santos Argueta Hector , Amin Parthiv
Published: November 2024

Background:
Obesity is considered a significant risk factor for numerous cardiovascular conditions due to its effects on cardiac structure and function. The prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) is elevated among patients with obesity due to the dysregulation of several mechanisms. Weight loss has been shown to reverse cardiac remodeling, leading to a lower recurrence of AF despite the better prognosis in obese patients described as the obesity paradox.

Methods:
We utilized the National Inpatient Sample 2016-2019 to extract patients ≥18 years of age admitted with AF as the primary diagnosis based on ICD 10 codes. We performed univariate and multivariate regression analysis for known coronary risk factors. We divided patients based on their body mass index (BMI), and our primary outcomes were determining the odds of electrical cardioversion (ECV) and cardiac ablation (CA) due to AF.

Results:
The analysis included 1,625,809 weighted patients. Patients include underweight (6.66%), normal BMI (4.03), overweight (6.51%), obesity class I (20.65%), obesity class II (21.45%), and obesity class III (40.7).

After multivariate regression analysis, patients with obesity class I, II, or III had higher odds of ECV, irrespectively of coronary risk factors (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.25-1.37, OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.32-1.43, OR 1.3, 95% CI1.29-1.38, respectively, with statistically significant P values). However, underweight or normal BMI patients had fewer odds of ECV (OR 0.5 95%CI 0.49-0.61 and OR 0.6 95%CI 0.58-0.74, respectively, with P values <0.001). Meanwhile, there was no statistical significance between a BMI and the odds of CA.

Conclusion:
Our study highlights the significant impact of BMI on managing atrial fibrillation, particularly regarding electrical cardioversion (ECV). Patients in higher BMI categories (obesity class I, II, and III) demonstrated increased odds of undergoing ECV, suggesting that obesity may influence treatment approaches and outcomes in AF management. Interestingly, BMI did not affect the likelihood of cardiac ablation (CA), indicating a more complex relationship between body weight and AF treatment modalities that warrants further investigation. These findings underscore the importance of personalized treatment strategies to optimize outcomes, with a focus on weight management.
Abstract 4124313: An unusual case of pericardial mass
Authors: Gong Jingyi , Gumuser Esra , O'Kelly Anna , Chen Maria , Tower-rader Albree , Yeh Doreen , Vaughn Jeanne , Dagogo-jack Ibiayi , Neilan Tomas
Published: November 2024

A 30-year-old male electrician presented with two days of fever and positional left shoulder pain and was found to have elevated inflammatory markers and a large pericardial effusion with echocardiographic evidence of tamponade for which he underwent pericardiocentesis. He was discharged on a course of anti-inflammatory therapy with presumed diagnosis of idiopathic pericarditis based on negative cytology. He returned 6 months later with several weeks of upper respiratory infection symptoms as well as new abdominal discomfort and emesis.

On presentation, his vital signs were notable for tachycardia to 113 and cardiac exam was notable for tachycardia, regular rhythm, no rubs or murmurs, nondisplaced precordial impulse, normal jugular venous pressure with Kussmaul sign, and pulsus paradoxus of 6. An electrocardiogram showed sinus tachycardia with diffuse ST segment changes (Figure A). His cardiac biomarkers were unremarkable (troponin 21). His labs revealed normocytic anemia with hemoglobin of 11 and erythrocyte sediment rate above assay. Echocardiogram demonstrated a circumferential complex pericardial effusion with echocardiographic evidence of early tamponade (Figure B, C). A pericardiocentesis was attempted with inability to advance wire within pericardial space. A malignancy workup was initiated. CT demonstrated multi-station thoracic and lower cervical lymphadenopathy, moderate left pleural effusion, and an intrapericardial mass with associated pericardial effusion (Figure D). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a circumferential intrapericardial non-mobile mass measuring up to 22 mm in thickness posteriorly and the mass was isointense to myocardium indicating low-fat content (Figure E). A supraclavicular lymph node biopsy was obtained with immunohistochemical staining positive for WT1 and calretinin, consistent with metastatic epithelioid mesothelioma of pericardial versus pleural etiology (Figure F). A PET-CT subsequently showed a FDG-avid circumferential anterior pericardial mass and multiple pleural-based lesions concerning for metastatic mesothelioma. He was initiated on pemetrexed/carboplatin systemic chemotherapy. With systemic therapy, his disease has been stable for 6 months. Pericardial mesothelioma is a rare malignancy. This case underscores the diagnostic challenges associated with pericardial mesothelioma and the importance of cancer workup as part of the pericardial effusion workup.
Abstract 4124518: Recent Trends in Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Latin America and the Caribbean: The Rising Threat of a Cardiometabolic Epidemics
Authors: Polachini Beatriz , Lino Rafael , Bramucci Victoria , Ciminelli Ana Luiza , Ribeiro Antonio Luiz , Brant Luisa
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
The sociodemographic context of population growth and ageing, social disparities and the high level of urbanisation in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) provide a unique entry point to reflect on the impact of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) on populations. Our objective was to evaluate recent trends in cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) in LAC to inform the development of potential solutions to address CVD in LAC.

Methods:
Using data from the “NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-Risc)” available for public consultation, we evaluated trends in the main CVRFs in LAC from 1990 to 2016-2020, namely: systolic blood pressure (SBP) in mmHg, total cholesterol (TC) in mmol/ml, body mass index (BMI) in average kg/m2 and prevalence of diabetes. NCD Risc compiles and harmonises data from studies representative of populations from various countries around the world. Data on the estimated prevalence of smoking in the region come from the “Global Burden of Diseases” study. Data are presented standardised by age to allow comparison of different periods, given that the age distribution of the population varied.

Results:
The CVRFs that showed favourable trends in LAC in recent decades were: smoking, mean SBP and TC. The prevalence of smoking fell from 69% to 17% for men and 67.6% to 7.6% for women, reducing the CVD risk attributable to tobacco by 34%. Mean SBP fell from 130 mmHg to 129 mmHg for men and 127 mmHg to 122 mmHg for women. The mean CT reduced from 4.7 mmol/L to 4.6 mmol/L for men and 4.8 mmol/L to 4.7 mmol/L for women. Obesity and diabetes showed unfavourable trends. The average BMI increased from 23.0 kg/m2 to 26.8 kg/m2 for men and from 23.0 kg/m2 to 27.5 kg/m2 for women, with the prevalence of obesity increasing from 3% to 11% in men and from 6% to 15% in women. The prevalence of diabetes followed this pattern and increased from 5.4% to 8.8% for men and from 5.8% to 9.6% for women.

Conclusion:
CVRF trends are heterogeneous and demonstrate success for policies aimed at CVRF, such as high blood pressure and smoking. However, the trends reveal that the problem in the coming decades will be the rise in obesity and its consequences, which may

reverse favourable trends in CVD mortality risk in LAC. Population and individual strategies, considering the social determinants of health, need to be planned, such as taxation of ultra-processed foods and campaigns to encourage physical activity.
Abstract 4124604: Finding the Right Course: Unknown Source of Hemorrhage Following Endocardial-Epicardial Ablation for Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: Culler Kasen , Peigh Graham , Zhang Weili , Xiao Nicholas , Nemcek Albert , Davidson Laura , Chicos Alexandru
Published: November 2024

Background:
Epicardial radiofrequency ablation via percutaneous access is a common technique for ventricular tachycardia (VT) ablation. Rapid identification of and response to complications can reduce morbidity and mortality.

Objective:
We present a case of epicardial VT ablation complicated by a distal left internal mammary artery (LIMA) transection secondary to subxiphoid sheath insertion.

Report:
A 66-year-old man with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was referred for endo-epicardial ablation of recurrent VT. Pericardial access was obtained using coronary vein exit and carbon dioxide insufflation technique. An 8.5F sheath was advanced over an indwelling pericardial wire, and ablation was performed. Following ablation, 400cc of blood was aspirated from the pericardial space after replacing the 8.5F sheath with a standard pericardial drain. Urgent angiography revealed intact coronary arteries, coronary sinus (CS) and LIMA. The 8.5F sheath was re-introduced and bleeding ceased. CT scan revealed no myocardial or great vessel damage. Mild pericardial drainage continued overnight. The next day, IR angiography demonstrated transection of the distal LIMA from the indwelling sheath. The patient underwent placement of a back-up pericardial drain, followed by coil embolization of the injured artery without complication (Fig).

Conclusion:
This case highlights the importance of maintaining a broad differential during apparent complications of epicardial access and the importance of staying close to midline for epicardial puncture given anatomic variability. The differential for acute blood loss and pericardial effusion following epicardial ablation includes 1) coronary artery damage, 2) CS damage, 3) extracardiac vascular injury, and 4) right ventricular injury. When extracardiac vascular injury is suspected, multidisciplinary collaboration is essential.
Abstract 4129195: Mechanisms of Healthy Aging in the Prevention of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: ROSE Andrew , Younes Rim , Xiao Jiening , Dasari Harika , Altuntas Yasemin , Xiong Feng , Naud Patrice , Sirois Martin , Tanguay Jean-Francois , Tardif Jean-Claude , Morais Jose , Ferland Guylaine , Gaudreau Pierrette , Hiram Roddy
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent cardiac arrhythmia. AF can lead to severe complications such as myocardial infarction, strokes, and sudden death. With 70% of AF patients aged 65 and older, aging stands as the major risk factor for AF. Our group have recently contributed to reveal that old Wistar rats (20 months) are more susceptible to AF than younger rats (5 months). Interestingly, Lou/c/jall (LOU) rats, a model of healthy aging derived from Wistar rats, can live up to ~35 months old (equivalent to 100 human years). LOU rats have been identified as resistant to age-related diseases such as obesity, hypertension, and neurodegenerative disorders, which are major risk factors for AF. However, the susceptibility of LOU rats to AF have never been reported.

Hypothesis:
LOU rats may carry specific molecular adaptations conferring resistance to age-related cardiac remodeling and low AF vulnerability.

Objectives:
Characterize the vulnerability of very old LOU rats (32 months) to AF compared to old Wistar rats (22 months). Determine the atrial inflammatory profile of LOU rats and identify the molecular adaptations that may explain their resistance to AF

Methods:
Male and Female rats were divided into five groups: LOU and Wistar rats of 5 months (young), 20 months (old), and 32 months (very old: LOU/c rats only). AF inducibility was assessed
in vivo
using transesophageal electrophysiological study and cardiac structure and function were analyzed by
in vivo
echocardiography. Atrial electrical conduction was examined using
ex vivo
optical mapping. Histological analyses were performed to assess atrial fibrosis. Additionally, immunoblot analysis, qPCR, and RNA sequencing were employed to investigate the levels of biomarkers involved in atrial inflammation and fibrosis.

Result:
Old Wistar rats were more vulnerable to AF than young rats. Old and very old LOU were significantly more resistant to AF than old Wistar animals. LOU rats’ low susceptibility to AF was accompanied with absence of cardiac structural and functional remodeling and low levels of atrial fibrosis compared to old Wistar. Additionally, advanced age did not affect LOU rats’ atrial electrical conduction properties as compared to old Wistar rats.

Conclusion:
Promotion of healthy aging conditions mimicking LOU rats’ resistance to cardiac remodeling and reduction of atrial fibrosis may contribute to prevent AF in subjects with pathological aging.
Abstract 4137878: Trends in Survival After Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Across Community Demographics Since the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hall Eric , Li Qiang , Chan Paul , McNally Bryan , Al-Araji Rabab , de Lemos James , Girotra Saket
Published: November 2024

Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 was marked by a sharp decrease in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) survival. Whether OHCA survival has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, and whether changes in OHCA survival are similar across communities of different racial and ethnic composition, is unknown.

Methods:
We included adult patients with non-traumatic OHCA from 2015-2022 in the Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival registry. Using hierarchical multivariable regression, we calculated risk-adjusted rates of survival to hospital discharge during 2015-2019 (reference period) and compared this to survival rates during 2020, 2021, and 2022. We also examined whether the trajectory of survival over this period differed based on the racial/ethnic composition of the community served by the emergency medical service (EMS) agency, defined as predominantly White (>80% White residents), majority Black or Hispanic (>50% Black or Hispanic residents), or integrated (neither).

Results:
Of 485,079 patients with OHCA, mean age was 61.9 years; 64% were male, and 22% were of Black race with 7% of Hispanic ethnicity. Overall, risk-adjusted survival rates to hospital discharge for OHCA decreased from 10.1% in 2015-2019 to 8.4% in 2020 (P<0.0001). The relative decrease was similar at EMS agencies serving predominantly Black and Hispanic communities (-17.2%) as compared to predominantly White (-17.5%) or integrated communities (-16.8%). Risk-adjusted survival rates recovered partially in 2021 (8.7%) and 2022 (8.9%) but remained below the pre-pandemic period. As of 2022, OHCA survival in majority Black and Hispanic communities was still 9.7% lower, as compared to pre-pandemic years, whereas it was 10.9% lower in integrated communities and 13.6% lower in predominately White communities. Moreover, the survival disparity for OHCAs in Black/Hispanic vs. White communities narrowed to 0.4% (8.4% vs. 8.8%) in 2022, as compared to 1.0% (9.3% vs. 10.3%) prior to the pandemic.

Conclusions:
OHCA survival has improved in the U.S. since the initial pandemic year of 2020, but remains lower than the pre-pandemic years. The survival disparity for OHCAs occurring in majority Black and Hispanic relative to predominately White communities decreased since 2020, although absolute survival remained lower in majority Black and Hispanic communities throughout the study period.
Validation of Left Ventricular Filling Pressure Evaluation by Order of Tricuspid and Mitral Valve Opening in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Nishino Hisao , Murayama Michito , Iwano Hiroyuki , Kagiyama Nobuyuki , Nakamura Yutaka , Akama Yuka , Toki Misako , Takamatsu Sachiko , Okada Taiji , Chiba Yasuyuki , Nakabachi Masahiro , Yokoyama Shinobu , Goto Mana , Suzuki Yukino , Ishizaka Suguru , Motoi Ko , Tamaki Yoji , Aoyagi Hiroyuki , Nakamura Kosuke , Kaga Sanae , Watanabe Chiaki , Kamiya Kiwamu , Nagai Toshiyuki , Teshima Takanori , Anzai Toshihisa
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Accurate assessment of left ventricular filling pressure in patients with atrial fibrillation or flutter (AF) remains difficult. A novel 2-dimensional scoring system, visually assessing time difference between mitral valve and tricuspid valve opening (VMT) score, based on temporal analysis of early diastolic valve opening, could be applied to these patients. We aimed to determine the usefulness of the VMT score in patients with AF.

METHODS:

We analyzed 119 consecutive patients with AF who underwent cardiac catheterization as a derivation cohort. The diagnostic performance of the VMT score was further evaluated in an external data set containing 189 patients with AF. Elevated left ventricular filling pressure was defined as a mean pulmonary arterial wedge pressure ≥15 mm Hg. The time sequence of atrioventricular valve opening was visually assessed and scored (0, tricuspid valve first; 1, simultaneous; 2, mitral valve first). When the inferior vena cava was dilated, 1 point was added, and the VMT score was finally graded as 0 to 3. Conventional Doppler parameters to estimate left ventricular filling pressure were also measured.

RESULTS:

Pulmonary arterial wedge pressure was elevated with an increase in the VMT score (0: 10±3, 1: 13±5, 2: 22±7, 3: 27±6 mm Hg;
P
<0.001), resulting in a significant rise in pulmonary arterial wedge pressure from VMT score 1 to 2. VMT≥2 predicted elevated pulmonary arterial wedge pressure with an accuracy of 87%, and the diagnostic accuracy of the VMT score was significantly higher than that of conventional Doppler parameters (
C
index, 0.88 versus 0.54–0.68;
P
<0.001). In addition, VMT ≥2 showed an incremental predictive value over plasma brain natriuretic peptide levels (
C
index, 0.79–0.93;
P
<0.001). In the external validation cohort, VMT≥2 demonstrated acceptable accuracy of 72%.

CONCLUSIONS:

VMT scoring was a useful echocardiographic marker of elevated left ventricular filling pressure and had an incremental benefit over practical biomarkers in patients with AF.
Unadorned: An Essay on a Conjugal Spectacle in Postcolonial Zanzibar
Authors: Abusharaf Rogaia Mustafa
Published: November 2024

This essay explores the historical, political and cultural lessons of a Shia Khoja diasporic account about the Forced Marriage Act, also known as Ndoa za Karume (NZK), in 1964 post-revolutionary Zanzibar. It examines how the pogroms committed by the Afro-Shirazi government against Arab and Asian communities in this period shaped the narration and transmission of memories of social suffering. In particular, the essay analyzes a work by a Zanzibari Khoja exile in the United Kingdom highlighting the experience of young forced brides. It argues that NZK constituted literal, legal and social harms and thus provides insight into the abuse of women and girls as spoils of war. By engaging with this voice, we gain not only a deeper understanding of a specific historical moment but also a more nuanced understanding of the political context of gendered experience in an island adrift.
Feasibility of high intensity training protocol on body composition and bone mineral density in older individuals with central obesity – a preliminary study
Authors: Gurudut P. , Kumar S. , Hulamani S. , Vaidyanathan K. , Tendulkar N.
Published: November 2024

Osteoporosis and body composition changes are prevalent musculoskeletal issues contributing to increased risk of frailty in older people. Weight bearing directly influences bone mineral density and body composition. Study aims to determine feasibility of high intensity interval training (HIIT) protocol on body composition parameters and bone mineral density (BMD) in older individuals. Twenty-four participants were randomly allocated to two study groups. The interventional group received supervised HIIT protocol while control group performed non-supervised brisk walking on alternate days over 3 months. Pre- and post-outcome measures were taken at baseline and 3 months which included, BMD using portable densitometer, body composition using a bioelectric impedance analyser, and basic anthropometry. Between group analysis demonstrated the interventional group to be significantly better than control group for all parameters (). In conclusion, HIIT protocol is feasible and effective method in improving body composition parameters and BMD in older individuals.

Clinical Trials Registry-India with CTRI number CTRI/2022/01/039740.
The effect of eight weeks of circuit resistance training on Apo-B/A ratio and inflammatory status of sedentary postmenopausal women
Authors: Shakoor E. , Qassemian A. , Shams S. , Amani-Shalamzari S.
Published: November 2024

Exercise can be an effective non-pharmacological method to reduce the complications of menopause. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 8 weeks of circuit resistance training (CRT) on the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), apolipoprotein A (Apo-A), Apo-B, and their ratio in sedentary postmenopausal women. Thirty postmenopausal women (age 54 ± 3 years, body mass index 27.6 ± 1.97 kg/m2) without any serious diseases and no hormone therapy volunteered to participate in the research. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups: circuit resistance training (n = 15, CRT) and Control (n = 15) groups. Resistance training was performed for 8 weeks, 3 days a week, including 12 stations for the whole body in 3 sets and 8-12 repetitions. The exercises started at 40% of one repetition maximum (1RM) and gradually reached 75% of 1RM in the last week. Blood samples were taken before and 48 hours after the end of both interventions to measure CRP, ICAM-1, Apo-A-I, and Apo-B. To analyse the data, a two-way analysis of variance test was used. The CRT intervention by reducing Apo-B (−8.9% vs −0.1%; change percentage relative to pre-to-post values in each group) and increasing Apo-A1 (+4.7% vs −0.1%) led to a significant increase in the Apo-B/A ratio (−13.0% vs −0.08%) compared to the Control group. In addition, a substantial decrease in the inflammatory levels of CRP (−21.0% vs +6.3%) and ICAM-1 (−22.7% vs +1.6%) was observed after 8 weeks of CRT compared to the Control group. The observed changes were consistent with a reduction in body mass and an improvement in the waist-hip ratio (WHR). The findings indicated that CRT could reduce the complications of menopause by reducing inflammatory markers and improving the lipid profile.
Development of effective micropropagation protocols for endangered Gentiana lutea and Gentiana boissieri (endemic to Türkiye)
Authors: Demirci Tunahan , Albayrak Ilknur , Deveci Hikmet , Asci Özlem Aras , Baydar Nilgun Gokturk
Published: November 2024

Gentiana spp. are ornamental as well as valuable medicinal plants. This research was conducted to investigate the effects of different cytokinin and auxin treatments on shoot propagation and rooting of both G. lutea and G. boissieri, and to establish the most appropriate micropropagation protocols for these species. For this purpose, MS media containing benzyl adenine (BA) (1, 2, 3, and 4 mg/l), zeatin (0.5, 1, 2, and 3 mg/l), and kinetin (0.5, 1, 2, and 3 mg/l) were used for shoot propagation, and the optimal cytokine applications were determined by examining shoot number per explant (SN/E) and shoot length (SL). To determine rooting ability, shoots were transferred to MS media containing indole acetic acid (IAA), indole butyric acid (IBA), and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at different concentrations (1, 2, 3, and 4 mg/l). The optimum auxin applications for root and plant development were determined by examining the rooting percentage (%, RP), root number per shoot (RN /S), root length (RL), shoot length (SL), and plant fresh weight (FW). As a result of the study, it was found that the media containing 3 mg/l and 2 mg/l BA were the most suitable shoot propagation media for G. lutea and G. boissieri, respectively. The media containing 4 mg/l IBA and 1 mg/l AgNO3 gave the highest rooting and growth parameters for G. lutea, while G. boissieri had the best rooting and growth values in media supplemented with 2 mg/l NAA. In addition, G. boissieri was found to be superior to G. lutea in both shoot propagation and rooting.
Biochemical diversity in Brassica leafy greens and sensory evaluation of its Saag, an Indian cuisine known for its cancer-preventive properties
Authors: Sharma Sanjula , Devi Jomika , Sharma Sonika , Sardana Virender
Published: November 2024

Despite the wide consumption of Brassica leaves as Saag in North India during the winter season, there is a notable gap in the information regarding the nutritional profile of the available germplasm resources. This study aims to compare the nutritional value and mineral composition of eleven green leafy Brassica accessions of Indian and exotic origin. A significant variation was recorded in health-promoting compounds among the different accessions. The heat map generated through hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) depicts three promising accessions, namely Chinese Sarson, Saag sarson, and KPT 9, which exhibit rich nutritional and antioxidant properties. Additionally, ascorbic acid and total phenols significantly correlated with the antioxidant activity of Brassica leafy greens. A significant difference in the compositional pattern of key macro-minerals (Ca, Mg, P) and micro-minerals (Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn) was noticed in the accessions. Among the eleven accession studied, GSC 7, Saag Sarson and Kangra Brown Sarson 3 exhibited richness in these elements, making them a suitable source for supplying a sizable portion of our daily mineral requirements. Subsequently, the Saag, an Indian cuisine prepared from the leaves of these accessions was subjected to sensory evaluation. The results showed that Chinese Sarson and Saag sarson received the highest consumer acceptance and were greatly appreciated. The information acquired from this study could serve as a valuable reference for the selection of high-quality leafy Brassica varieties for breeding programs aimed at enhancing nutritional value and broadening the genetic base of this important food crop.
Mind the (Feminine) Gap
Authors: Hoskin Rhea Ashley , Blair Karen L.
Published: November 2024

The field of femininities has arguably existed for over six decades, but it was not until 2024 that a journal emerged as a home for scholarship in the field. In contrast, the field of masculinities has had a journal since 1998. Likely owing to the greater number of academic structures supporting the field, scholars produce masculinity research at a rate 2.77 times higher than femininity research, and they face negative career consequences when focusing their research on femininity or using methods deemed to be feminine. In this article, we explore the potential reasons for, and consequences of, this ‘feminine gap,’ with a focus on femmephobic processes of knowledge production and the masculinization of expertise. We then introduce the Journal of Femininities as a partial remedy to this gap through its aim to provide a home for femininities scholarship and a reexamination of the world through a feminine lens of inquiry.
Emerging artists in transition
Authors: Cooper Maud
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this paper is to better understand how emerging artists use information to navigate the transition out of university, using their changing ideas of failure, success, information literacy (IL), and transition to frame the qualitative data.
A literature review is used to frame the current understanding of emerging artists and feed into the creation of the interview questions. Four emerging artists participated to elicit qualitative accounts. Descriptive and process coding was used to analyse the interviews to form the findings.
 
The findings present how emerging artists use information to shape their criteria for success and failure during the transitional period after leaving art school education. Three core information practices — sharing, feeding, and balancing — were observed within the interviews. With this framing insights into the emerging artists’ past (learning from historic failings) and the future (envisioning future success) begin to be formed. Furthermore, this paper contributes to the knowledge of emerging artists’ information practices, including the impact of their digital media usage and self-referencing as IL.
The study uses the work of other IL scholars with the information practices of emerging artists and frames them through three key ideas: IL, transition, and success and failure. This intersection of study has not been explored previously.
The results will provide direction for information professionals serving emerging artists, and for art educators preparing their students for their careers outside of university. It also deepens the understanding of the field of transition and information practices of new practitioners across fields.
No Prices No Games!
Authors: Richter Michael , Rubinstein Ariel
Published: November 2024

While current economic theory focuses on prices and games, this book models economic settings where harmony is established through one of the following societal conventions:

• A power relation according to which stronger agents are able to force weaker ones to do things against their will.

• A norm that categorizes actions as permissible or forbidden.

• A status relation over alternatives which limits each agent's choices.

• Systematic biases in agents' preferences.

These four conventions are analysed using simple and mathematically straightforward models, without any pretensions regarding direct applied usefulness. While we do not advocate for the adoption of any of these conventions specifically – we do advocate that when modelling an economic situation, alternative equilibrium notions should be considered, rather than automatically reaching for the familiar approaches of prices or games.
0. Introduction
Authors: Richter Michael , Rubinstein Ariel
Published: November 2024

The stage on which this book's plots are set is a model called an economy. The model captures situations in which each agent in a society chooses an alternative and there exists a fundamental tension between the agents' personal desires and society-wide feasibility constraints. The chapter includes many examples of economies.

A candidate for an equilibrium includes two components:

(i) A profile of choices - one choice for each agent.

(ii) A specification of certain parameters that systematically influence either agents' choice problems or their preference relations.

In equilibrium, agents make individually optimal choices, and the parameters restrict their choice sets to be compatible, in the sense that the resulting profile of choices is feasible.

We provide an overview of the equilibrium concepts we study in the book. They are classified into two groups. In the choice group, each agent's choice set depends on a price-like equilibrium parameter, but not on the equilibrium profile of choices. In the deviation group, an equilibrium is a profile of choices which is immune to any single agent's deviation from his prescribed alternative to any other alternative in a set determined by the equilibrium parameters.
1. Equilibrium in the Jungle
Authors: Richter Michael , Rubinstein Ariel
Published: November 2024

The standard economic approach treats economic activity as voluntary: all involved parties do whatever they do of their own free will. However, life is not just a series of voluntary actions. An agent might use power to seize assets from others or to force others to do things against their will. Economic Theory typically ignores the use of power as a driver of social activity.

This chapter follows Piccione and Rubinstein (2007) which introduces a model of a society referred to as the jungle, in which economic transactions are governed only by coercion. The model consists of a set of agents with exogenous preferences over a set of assets and a power ordering of the agents. Power means that a stronger agent is able to take things away from a weaker agent without the weaker agent's consent.

A jungle equilibrium is a feasible allocation of the assets such that no agent wishes to take assets from an agent (or agents) weaker than himself. We will apply versions of the concept to the housing economy (Shapley and Scarf (1974)) and to the division economy. Throughout, we will deal with standard issues, such as: existence, uniqueness and the fundamental theorems of welfare.
3. Status and Indoctrination
Authors: Richter Michael , Rubinstein Ariel
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, the parameter which brings harmony is a commonly accepted public ordering on the set of alternatives. Its main interpretation is of a status ranking. Society restricts an agent's ability to replace the alternative he has. He can only move “down” to a “less prestigious” one, but not “up”.

The main equilibrium notion is a status equilibrium which is a public ordering and a feasible profile of choices such that no agent strictly prefers any weakly lower-status alternative than the one he is assigned to. As in a market, deviations are purely self-serving and contemplated without regard to feasibility.

We also study a variant, the initial status equilibrium, which operates on a model of an economy that is extended to include an initial profile. In the initial profile, each agent is assigned an alternative which he can always choose and which together with the public ordering determines his choice set. In an initial status equilibrium no agent strictly prefers any weakly lower-status alternative than the one he is assigned to initially.

The equilibrium concepts are discussed in abstract, ``welfare'' theorems are shown, and they are applied to a variety of examples.
5. A Comparison to Game Theory
Authors: Richter Michael , Rubinstein Ariel
Published: November 2024

In the final chapter, we compare this book's modeling approaches with each other and to those of standard Game Theory on two ``battlegrounds''.

The first is the matching economy. An even-sized population of agents must match into exclusive pairs (pairings). Each agent possesses a preference relation over potential mates.

The standard cooperative game theory solution concept for matching economies is ``pairwise stability''. Following Richter and Rubinstein (2024), we compare this concept with the jungle equilibrium, the Y-equilibrium and the status and initial status equilibrium concepts.

The second battleground is a ``political economy'' situation. A group of agents hold views on a political issue. Each agent chooses a position and has preferences only regarding the position he himself chooses (and not the choices of others). However, there is a need that a majority of agents choose the same position.

Traditionally, such a situation is modeled as a non-cooperative game and its Nash equilibria are calculated. Extending Richter and Rubinstein (2021), we compare this approach with the convex Y-equilibrium and the biased preferences equilibria.

On both battlegrounds, the new approaches lead to very different outcomes than the traditional ones.
Gridded Severe Hail Nowcasting Using 3D U-Nets, Lightning Observations, and the Warn-on-Forecast System
Authors: Schmidt Tobias G. , McGovern Amy , Allen John T. , Potvin Corey K. , Chase Randy J. , Wiley Chad M. , McGovern-Fagg William R. , Flora Montgomery L. , Homeyer Cameron R. , Williams John K.
Published: November 2024

Hailstorms cause billions of dollars in damage across the United States each year. Part of this cost could be reduced by increasing warning lead times. To contribute to this effort, we developed a nowcasting machine learning model that uses a 3D U-Net to produce gridded severe hail nowcasts for up to 40 min in advance. The three U-Net dimensions uniquely incorporate one temporal and two spatial dimensions. Our predictors consist of a combination of output from the National Severe Storms Laboratory Warn-on-Forecast System (WoFS) numerical weather prediction ensemble and remote sensing observations from Vaisala’s National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN). Ground truth for prediction was derived from the maximum expected size of hail calculated from the gridded NEXRAD WSR-88D radar (GridRad) dataset. Our U-Net was evaluated by comparing its test set performance against rigorous hail nowcasting baselines. These baselines included WoFS ensemble Hail and Cloud Growth Model (HAILCAST) and a logistic regression model trained on WoFS 2–5-km updraft helicity. The 3D U-Net outperformed both these baselines for all forecast period time steps. Its predictions yielded a neighborhood maximum critical success index (max CSI) of ∼0.48 and ∼0.30 at forecast minutes 20 and 40, respectively. These max CSIs exceeded the ensemble HAILCAST max CSIs by as much as ∼0.35. The NLDN observations were found to increase the U-Net performance by more than a factor of 4 at some time steps. This system has shown success when nowcasting hail during complex severe weather events, and if used in an operational environment, may prove valuable.
A Machine Learning Approach to Mitigate Ground Clutter Effects in the GPM Combined Radar–Radiometer Algorithm (CORRA) Precipitation Estimates
Authors: Grecu Mircea , Heymsfield Gerald M. , Nicholls Stephen , Lang Stephen , Olson William S.
Published: November 2024

In this study, a machine learning–based methodology is developed to mitigate the effects of ground clutter on precipitation estimates from the Global Precipitation Measurement Combined Radar–Radiometer Algorithm. Ground clutter can corrupt and obscure the precipitation echo in radar observations, leading to inaccuracies in precipitation estimates. To improve upon previous work, this study introduces a general machine learning (ML) approach that enables a systematic investigation and a better understanding of uncertainties in clutter mitigation. To allow for a less restrictive exploration of conditional relations between precipitation above the lowest clutter-free bin and surface precipitation, reflectivity observations above the clutter are included in a fixed-size set of predictors along with the precipitation type, surface type, and freezing level to estimate surface precipitation rates, and several ML-based estimation methods are investigated. A neural network (NN) model is ultimately identified as the best candidate for systematic evaluations, as it is computationally fast to apply while effective in applications. The NN provides unbiased estimates; however, it does not significantly outperform a simple bias correction approach in reducing random errors in the estimates. The similar performance of other ML approaches suggests that the NN’s limited improvement beyond bias removal is due to indeterminacies in the data rather than limitations in the ML approach itself.

Significance Statement

Ground clutter can obscure and corrupt the precipitation echo in the reflectivity observations by spaceborne radar, leading to inaccuracies and biases in the surface precipitation estimates. In this study, a machine learning approach is developed to mitigate the effects of ground clutter on precipitation estimates from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Combined Radar–Radiometer Algorithm (CORRA). The approach is shown to be effective in removing the biases associated with the simplest ground clutter mitigation approach and reducing the random errors associated with more complex climatologically based bias-removal approaches.
The Packed Epistaxis Patient: Risks of Rebleeding? A Pilot Study to Inform Outpatient Management of Packed Patients
Authors: Kent Emily , Gundle Leo , Jones Imogen
Published: November 2024

Objective:

Current common practice for patients with idiopathic epistaxis which requires nasal packing is to admit as an in-patient for overnight observation. Anecdotally, many patients do not re-bleed, so admissions may be unnecessary. Several factors have been suggested to be associated with an increased risk of re-bleeding, such as hypertension, anticoagulant use, and male gender. We set out to investigate these factors, to create a local guideline to identify patients who may be safe to discharge with a pack in situ.

Methods:

We collected the data on the most recent admissions in our department, who each received a non-absorbable nasal pack for idiopathic epistaxis (n = 100). Data points included age, gender, anticoagulation status, and comorbidities.

Results:

Data from 100 patients were audited. Of those, 13 were found to have re-bled through their packing (13%). Statistically significant predictors of re-bleed were as follows: Male sex (OR = 9.81, P = .048, 95% CI 1.02-94.11), aspirin use (OR = 8.11, P = .047, 95% CI = 1.03-63.79), hypertension (OR = 8.14, P = .040, 95% CI = 1.10-60.26), and age (OR = 0.93, P = .018 95% CI = 0.88-0.99).

Conclusion:

Re-bleed in patients managed with non-absorbable packing for idiopathic epistaxis is uncommon. Risk factors may include male sex, hypertension, and aspirin use. ENT departments nationally may consider discharging patients’ home with pack in situ, for removal as an outpatient, in the absence of these risk factors.
Development of Economic Cooperation Between Russia and China in the Condition of New Geopolitical Threats and Challenges
Authors: Davtyan Vahe S. , Tufetulov Aidar M. , Rodnyansky Dmitry V. , Khairullin Ilnur A. , Margamov Ainur R. , Valeeva Yulia S.
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the study is to analyse the state and directions of development of foreign economic cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China in conditions of growing macroeconomic instability. During the study, the following tasks were set and solved: the prerequisites for the formation and content of the global foreign economic initiative ‘One Belt, One Road’ (OBOR) were analysed (Belt and Road Initiative [BRI]), as well as Russia’s participation in the implementation of transnational infrastructure projects; the advantages and risks of implementing the strategic initiative ‘BRI’ for the state of the economy of Russia and China have been identified; an analysis of the dynamics of indicators of trade and economic cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China was carried out; the main directions of development of Russian–Chinese foreign economic relations have been identified. It was determined that the sanctions restrictions imposed on Russia by a number of unfriendly states confirmed the validity of the decision on the need to expand foreign economic contacts with China. Dynamics of indicators of trade, economic and investment cooperation between Russia and China in the period from 2013 to 2023 indicates the steady growth of its indicators and the mutually beneficial nature of interstate relations. The analysis showed that the prospects for trade and economic cooperation between Russia and China within the framework of the strategic initiative ‘OBOR’ are determined by the projected sustainable growth rates of macroeconomic indicators of the participating countries, as well as the effectiveness of foreign economic policy instruments.