bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract 3032: Novel GLP-Grade E-Selectin/AAV2 Gene Therapy Optimal Dosage For Vascular Regeneration
Authors: Voza Francesca A , ortiz yulexi , Le Nga , Ribieras Antoine , Liu Zhao-Jun , Velazquez Omaida C
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Chronic Limb Threatening Ischemia (CLTI) represents a major public health burden with with an estimated 15 to 20% CLTI patients undergoing major limb amputation facing a 50% mortality risk at 5 years post amputation. We previously demonstrated the pro-angiogenic actions of a research-grade E-Selectin/AAV gene therapy in a hindlimb gangrene murine model. In this study, a dosage study utilizing GLP grade codon-optimized and DeNovo-synthesized E-selectin/AAV2 was conducted dosage optimization and determination of the necessary scale-up for subsequent clinical trials.

Methods:
codon-optimized and
de novo
synthesized human and murine E-selectin AAV vectors under GLP conditions was evaluated
in vitro
by cell transduction assays. E-selectin/AAV2 i.m. injection in three cohorts of FVB/NJ mice (9-12 weeks old, N=6/group) with GFP/AAV2 (9-12 weeks old, N=6/group) groups, was performed
in vivo
in escalating log doses ranging from 2x10^9 VG to 2x10^11 VG. Hindlimb ischemia and gangrene were subsequently induced through left femoral artery/vein ligation/excision (FAVLE). Limb perfusion recovery and function was assessed postoperatively by Laser Doppler Imaging (LDI), Faber hindlimb ischemia scores, treadmill exhaustion test, whole-body Dil perfusion

Results:
Treatment with high dose (2x10^11 VG) of E-selectin/AAV2 significantly improve perfusion indices compared to control groups (p=.0019, N=6/group) and lower doses (p=.0006 and p=.0082, N=6/group) with decreased Faber’s scores. A significant increase in neovascularization was also observed compared to GFP control (0.41 ±0.14 to 0.95±0.18; p=.0080, N=5/group) and lower doses (p=.0026 and p=.009, N=5/group). Running stamina was also significantly improve by VRGT with a 2x10^11 VG dosage treatment compared to GFP (p=0.0047) control and lower doses, establishing a clear dose-dependent response.

Conclusion:
VGRT improves recovery of ischemic hindlimb perfusion and function at an optimal dose of 2x10
11
VG. This pre-clinical study paves the way towards further studies using the same AAV construct manufactured under cGMP conditions and subsequent Investigational New Drug (IND) process for clinical pilot studies and disease burden relief.
Abstract 3077: Identifying Regulators Of Human Adventitial Fibroblast Activation Through A Genome-wide CRISPR Screen
Authors: Zhu Ashley J , Gu Wenduo , Jackson William , Cheng Paul
Published: July 2024

Background:
Vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, are the leading cause of death in the US and world-wide. A quiescent population of fibroblasts that reside in the adventitia (AdvFib) activates and expands upon different vascular insults and contribute to the progression of vascular diseases. However, what regulates AdvFib’s activation remains unknown. We designed a genome-wide CRISPRi screen on human AdvFib to identify these regulators.

Methods:
We generated an immortalized human coronary AdvFib line that stably expresses dCas9-KRAB, which effectively silences any genes of interest. These cells were infected with a pool of lentivirus carrying guide RNAs (gRNA) covering the entire transcriptome at 200X coverage and allowed to expand freely. Frequency of gRNAs was assessed at different cell passages to identify those that influence AdvFib activation and was followed by experimental validation. Lastly, bioinformatic analysis was performed to determine regulatory pathways and gene networks involved in AdvFib activation.

Results:
Comparing relative gRNA abundances from early to late passages revealed several hundred putative regulators of AdvFib activation. GO biological process analysis of the top 250 enriched gRNA targets demonstrated disproportionate representation of cyclin inhibitors, validating the effectiveness of our screening. Molecular signatures for adipogenesis and key regulators of tissue mineralization including
IBSP
and
ENPP1
were notably enriched in our screen. Human disease association using PhenGenI revealed a significant association with atherosclerosis. Indeed, numerous coronary artery disease GWAS genes including
TCF21
,
ZEB2
,
CDKN1A
, and
CDKN2A
were enriched in our screen, providing additional support for AdvFib’s importance in atherosclerosis. These hits were subsequently validated individually in vitro.

Conclusion:
A genome-wide CRISPRi screen of AdvFib activation modulators identified numerous potential regulator genes, many of which have known genetic and observational association with human vascular diseases. This study affirms the potentially important role of AdvFib in human vascular disease and may pave the way to future therapeutics targeting this often neglected cell population.
Abstract 3078: Free Fatty Acid Receptor 4: An Emerging Target To Reduce Atherosclerosis
Authors: Stuttgen Gage , Bobek Jordan , Penoske Renee , Wadding-Lee Caris , Owens A. Phillip , Sahoo Daisy
Published: July 2024

Free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4) has recently emerged as a target for preventing CVD through its ability to reduce macrophage foam cell formation and inflammation. We have shown that activation of FFAR4 by synthetic agonists decreases foam cell formation, whereas deficiency of FFAR4 increases foam cell formation. Building on these data, we hypothesized that FFAR4 would protect against atherosclerotic plaque formation
in vivo
. To test this hypothesis, we generated global FFAR4 knockout mice on an apoE-deficient background. Male and female apoE/FFAR4 double knockout mice (n=20) and their apoE knockout controls (n=20) were fed a Western diet (42% calories from fat and 0.2% cholesterol) for 16 weeks. We collected weekly body weights and fasting plasma samples from mice at 0, 8, and 16 weeks to measure triglyceride and cholesterol levels. At the end of the 16-week study, atherosclerotic plaque severity was determined by analyzing the aortic sinus lesion area of the heart and the en-face lesion area of the aortic arch. In both the male and female mice, we observed no differences in weekly body weights or lipid levels between the apoE knockout and apoE/FFAR4 double knockout mice. In our first cohort of male mice (n=10), the two genotypes showed no difference in the aortic sinus lesion area. However, male apoE/FFAR4 double knockout mice had a statistically significant (p=0.039) 1.4-fold increase in total aortic arch lesion area compared to FFAR4-deficient mice. While female mice (n=9) showed no differences in atherosclerotic plaque in the aortic sinus and aortic arch between the two genotypes, they did present with 1.7-fold (p=0.002) and 2-fold increases (p=0.009) in aortic sinus lesion area and aortic arch lesion area, respectively, as compared to male mice. Based on analysis of an initial set of mice, our data support a protective role for FFAR4 in the development of atherosclerotic plaque formation in male mice, and our findings may have uncovered a new therapeutic target against atherosclerosis.
Abstract 3082: Isoginkgetin, A Bioactive Biflavonoid Isolated From Ginkgo Biloba, Reduces Atherosclerosis By Inhibiting Acly
Authors: Zhang Zhidan , Chen Meijie , Xu Yitong , He Chenyang , Xian Xunde , Weng Jianpin , Xu Suowen
Published: July 2024

Isoginkgetin (ISOGK) is a bioactive biflavonoid isolated from
Ginkgo biloba
, an eminent Chinese herbal medicine with hypolipidemic properties. This study was designed to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action of ISOGK in treating hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Compared with vehicle-treated ApoE
-/-
mice, ISOGK-treated mice showed a reduction in the plaque area of the aorta and the sinus, regardless of gender. Treatment with ISOGK also reduced serum and hepatic lipid levels. Surface Plasmon Resonance and Cellular Thermal Shift Assay assays discovered that ACLY can directly bind to ISOGK, identifying ACLY as a direct target of ISOGK. Further Molecular Docking and ADP-Glo Kinase Assay confirmed that ISOGK can bind to ACLY and inhibit its enzyme activity. Finally, the lipid-lowering and anti-atherosclerotic effects of ISOGK were abolished by hepatic knockdown of ACLY via treatment with GalNAc-siACLY. The present study identified ISOGK as an effective bioactive molecule that limits hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis by pharmacological inhibition of ACLY.
Abstract 3101: Precision Medication Communication Through Teach-back Method Among Patients With Cardiovascular Disease Admitted To The Telemetry Unit
Authors: Padda Inderbir , Mahtani Arun , Kavarthapu Anusha , Fabian Daniel , Farid Meena , Taik Sophia , Piccione Gianpaolo , Karroum Paul , Tantry Bhuvana , Hashmi Razi
Published: July 2024

Background:
Limited qualitative research has identified clinician skills and behaviors that enhance precision communication, a challenging task when patients exhibit limited health literacy(HL). The teach-back method, a technique aimed at confirming patients' comprehension of health information has been suggested as a valuable strategy to address HL. Our quality improvement study examined the patients’ understanding of newly prescribed cardiac medications during hospitalization. We aimed to pinpoint barriers in communication between healthcare providers and patients as well as use the teach-back method to improve literacy about newly prescribed medications before their discharge.

Methods:
50 participants, including 28 males and 22 females with a mean age of 71.72, (SDN+/-2:11.59) admitted to the telemetry floor between 11/2023 and 01/2024. Yes/No questionnaire interview was conducted to gauge their understanding of the newly prescribed cardiac medication and its adverse effects. The interviewer encouraged participants to articulate their understanding in their own words. A follow-up telephone interview was conducted 2-4 weeks post-discharge to assess the retention of information regarding the newly initiated medication(s).

Results:
Among 50 patients, 54% demonstrated awareness of the reason behind the prescription of the medication, while only 26% knew about its serious adverse effects before employing the teach-back method. Following the application of the method during the interview, 92% exhibited an enhanced understanding of the information related to their medications. Follow-up telephone interviews conducted 2-3 weeks post-discharge, 74% retained information about the indication and adverse effects of the prescribed medications.

Conclusion:
Integration of the teach-back method during discharge planning is a highly effective strategy in improving patient education and communication for newly prescribed cardiac medications.
Abstract 3121: Gender And Racial Differences In Complications Of Coronary Angiography
Authors: Ramgopal Yash , Nanduri Rahul , El Ayadi Amina , Golovko George , Wolf Steven E , Song Juquan
Published: July 2024

Background:
Coronary angiography is an effective diagnostic tool for assessing coronary lesions and visualizing vascularization. Although research has been conducted on the occurrence of complications of the procedure, limited research is available comparing the occurrence of postoperative complications between various patient populations. Our study aims to bridge this gap by assessing the gender and racial disparities in outcomes of coronary angiography.

Methods:
Data was obtained from TriNetX, a national database of deidentified medical records with IRB pre-approval. Two distinct pairs of cohorts were identified - patients that underwent coronary angiography divided by gender (male and female) and race (White and Black). Cohorts were matched with a propensity score model. Four complications were studied 0-3 days post procedure: acute myocardial infarction (MI), cerebral infarction, arrhythmias, and acute renal failure. Statistical analysis included risk differences with a significance value of p ≤ 0.05.

Results:
(*incidence values included in parentheses are percentages)

Gender:
We identified 162,408 male patients and 102,461 female patients that had a coronary angiography performed. No significant difference between male and female patients was observed in the incidence of stroke (0.422 vs 0.482, p = 0.0820). Males had a higher incidence of MI (9.251 vs 7.547, p ≤ 0.001), arrhythmias (3.786 vs 2.877, p ≤ 0.001), and acute renal failure (1.385 vs 1.19, p = 0.003)

Race:
We identified 178,024 white patients and 24,616 black patients that had a coronary angiography performed. No significant difference between white and black patients was observed in the incidence of MI (8.485 vs 8.215, p = 0.2808). White patients had a higher incidence of arrhythmias (3.077 vs 2.722, p = 0.0191), whereas black patients had a higher likelihood of stroke (0.401 vs 0.666, p ≤ 0.001) and acute renal failure (0.335 vs 0.781, p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion:
Gender and racial differences in complications of coronary angiography are evident within 72 hours (about 3 days) of the procedure. Male and Black patients had a higher risk of life-threatening complications. Physicians can use this information for postprocedural monitoring of high-risk patients to improve outcomes.
Abstract 3140: Upregulation Of Mirna-409-3p Contributes To Endothelial Cell Dysfunction In Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Rizvi Syed Husain Mustafa , Zhou Yuxiang , Weisbrod Robert M , Okazaki Ross , Minetti Erika T , Behrooz Leili , Hamburg Naomi M
Published: July 2024

Endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction is prevalent in individuals with insulin resistance and diabetes, characterized by diminished phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (p-eNOS) and reduced nitric oxide (NO) production in the endothelium. Despite its common occurrence, the fundamental mechanism underlying EC dysfunction remains incompletely understood. Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) has been implicated in EC biology and metabolic disorders, yet studies exploring the functional relevance of these miRNAs are limited. In this investigation, venous EC samples were collected from patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-diabetic (ND) individuals (n=20/group). Subsequent miRNA sequencing revealed 37 upregulated and 21 downregulated miRNAs (P<0.05, L2FC>1). Notably, increased expression of miR-409-3p (L2FC>2) emerged as a potential target associated with EC dysfunction. Validation experiments conducted on human aortic EC (HAEC) exposed to high glucose palmitate (HGPAL) confirmed a significant upregulation of miR-409-3p (P<0.001, L2FC>2). In the same experimental setup, insulin-induced p-eNOS was decreased following HGPAL treatment. However, inhibition of miR-409-3p restored p-eNOS levels (18% to 20%), surpassing controls (21%), by enhancing insulin action in EC. Further investigations involving knockdown and overexpression of miR-409-3p demonstrated its negative regulation of p-eNOS in EC. The molecular mechanism uncovered indicates that miR-409-3p modulates p-eNOS signaling through JNK activity, as confirmed by fluorescence microscopy in patient ECs and by western blot in HAECs. In summary, this study identifies an altered miRNA repertoire in EC derived from T2DM patients, suggesting miR-409-3p as a key player in regulating insulin resistance and EC function. Ongoing study looks is delving into the transcriptional targets of miR-409-3p and their functional implications in both T2DM patients and cultured EC. These findings will shed light on the intricate interplay between miRNAs and EC dysfunction, offering potential avenues for therapeutic exploration in the realm of diabetes-associated vascular complications.
Abstract 3142: Pik3c3 Safeguards Smooth Muscle Identity By Promoting Lysosome-mediated Yap1 Degradation
Authors: Shen Jian , He Xiangqin , Dong Kunzhe , Hu Guoqing , Chen Jian-Kang , Dong Zheng , Su Huabo , Fulton David , Xiang Meixiang , Zhou Jiliang
Published: July 2024

Background:
Mature vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are quiescent and geared for maintaining vascular homeostasis by expressing a unique repertoire of contractile genes. However, key factors in controlling the contractile phenotype of VSMCs are poorly defined. Class III PI3K, PIK3C3 (Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase Catalytic Subunit Type 3) is a critical regulator of vesicular trafficking. Although PIK3C3 is known to play an essential role in cardiac homeostasis, its role in VSMCs remains elusive.

Methods:
To elucidate the role of
Pik3c3
in regulating SMC fate and plasticity, we generated smooth muscle-specific
Pik3c3
inducible knock out (KO) mice with SMC-lineage tracing. Proteomic mass spectrometry, next-generation RNA sequencing, SMC fate mapping coupled with single-cell RNA sequencing were applied to determine the phenotype and trajectories of SMCs after
Pik3c3
ablation.

Results:
Specific ablation of Pik3c3 in SMCs results in severe gastrointestinal pseudo-obstruction and premature death. Analysis of aorta from the KO mice revealed dramatic vascular remodeling including dilatation, thickening of the vascular wall, spontaneous neointimal formation that was largely contributed by cells of SMC origin, and complete loss of contractility. Proteomics, bulk RNA-seq, and scRNA-seq studies of SMC-restricted
Pik3c3
KO mouse aorta showed near complete loss of smooth muscle identity and the acquisition of an intermediate smooth muscle progenitor-like cell phenotype that underwent re-programming into multiple cell types including macrophages, T cells and osteoblasts. Mechanistically, we found that Pik3c3 deletion in VSMCs induces the accumulation of YAP1 (Yes associated protein 1) and its downstream target genes; this elevated YAP1 program appears to result from a blockade of autophagic lysosome-mediated degradation of YAP1, leading to phenotypic modulation of SMCs. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of YAP by Verteporfin or genetic deletion of Yap1 rescues the vascular phenotype of Pik3c3 SM-specific KO mice.

Conclusion:
Our study reveals PIK3C3 as a master regulator safeguarding VSMC identity, and perturbation of the PIK3C3-YAP axis may be a novel mechanism underlying VSMC-driven vascular diseases in humans.
Association of Medication Adherence and Health Status in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction: Insights From the CHAMP-HF Registry
Authors: El-Zein Rayan S. , Mohammed Moghniuddin , Nguyen Daniel D. , Hill C. Larry , Thomas Laine , Nassif Michael , DeVore Adam D. , Albert Nancy M. , Butler Javed , Patterson J. Herbert , Williams Fredonia B. , Hernandez Adrian , Fonarow Gregg C. , Spertus John A.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

The foundation for managing heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is adherence to guideline-directed medical therapy. Finding an association between medication adherence and patients’ health status (their symptoms, function, and quality of life) can be used to underscore its importance to patients.

METHODS:

The association of self-reported medication adherence in US outpatients with HFrEF enrolled in the Change the Management of Patients with Heart Failure registry from 2015 to 2017 was compared with their health status at baseline and 12 months later. A secondary analysis of changes in adherence between baseline and 6 months with 6-month health status was also performed. Medication adherence was assessed with the self-reported 4-item Morisky-Green-Levine Medication Adherence Scale, with scores ≥1 classified as nonadherent. The primary health status outcome was the disease-specific 12-item Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire Overall Summary Score (KCCQ-OS; range, 0–100; higher is better). Robust linear regression models adjusted for confounders were used.

RESULTS:

After excluding those who died (n=316) or did not provide 12-month KCCQ (n=1285), 3495 outpatients with HFrEF were included, of whom 1108 (31.7%) reported being nonadherent. Nonadherent participants were younger, had significantly worse baseline health status (−5.83-point difference;
P
<0.001), and showed less improvement at 12 months (−1.7-point difference in mean change;
P
=0.017) than adherent participants. Among nonadherent patients at baseline, those whose adherence improved trended toward greater 6-month health status improvements than those remaining nonadherent (fully adjusted difference of 2.52 points;
P
=0.054).

CONCLUSIONS:

In HFrEF, medication nonadherence was associated with worse health status and less improvement over the following year. Improvements in adherence were associated with better health status than remaining nonadherent, underscoring the importance of supporting adherence with guideline-directed medical therapy in patients with HFrEF.
Clinical Management of Primary Aldosteronism: An Update
Authors: Rossi Gian Paolo , Rossi Federico Bernardo , Guarnieri Chiara , Rossitto Giacomo , Seccia Teresa M.
Published: July 2024

Despite carrying an excess risk of cardiovascular events, primary aldosteronism (PA) is a commonly overlooked secondary form of arterial hypertension. An increased awareness of its high prevalence and broader screening strategies are urgently needed to improve its detection rate and allow early diagnosis and targeted treatment. For patients with unilateral PA, these measures can correct hyperaldosteronism and ensure cure of hypertension, even when resistant to drug treatment, thus preventing adverse cardiovascular events. Among these, atrial fibrillation is the most common, but left ventricular hypertrophy, stroke, chronic kidney disease, and myocardial infarction also occur more often than in patients with hypertension and no PA. Young patients, who have higher chances of being cured long term, and high-risk patients, such as those with stage III or resistant hypertension, are those who will benefit most from an early diagnosis of PA. Therefore, the implementation of strategies to detect PA by a simplified diagnostic algorithm is necessary. In the patients who seek for surgical cure, adrenal vein sampling is key for the identification of unilateral PA and the achievement of optimal outcomes. Unfortunately, being technically demanding and poorly available, adrenal vein sampling represents the bottleneck in the workup of PA. Considering the novel knowledge generated in the past 5 years in many studies, particularly in the AVIS-2 study (Adrenal Vein Sampling International Study-2), based on 4 decades of experience at our center and on the last guidelines, we herein provide an update on the management of PA with recommendations for drug treatment and strategies to avoid adrenal vein sampling wherever it is poorly, or not, available.
Volvariella griseoalba (Agaricales, Volvariellaceae), a new species from Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: ARSHAD WASIQA , IJAZ HIRA , KHAN MEHBOOBULLAH , YASMEEN ANEELA , ZHAO CHANG-LIN , GHAFOOR ANEEQA , KOMAL EISHA , NIAZI ABDUL RAHMAN , JABEEN SANA
Published: July 2024

Volvariella griseoalba is described as a new species from Punjab, Pakistan. The species was separated from its morphologically closest relative, V. sathei by its shiny greyish-white, umbonate pileus, subglobose to broadly ellipsoid basidiospores, utriform cheilocystidia and a white to brown volva. Molecular phylogenetic analyses of ITS and LSU region of the nrDNA also supported the studied taxon as a distinct species in Volvariella.
Bird names as critical communication infrastructure in the contexts of history, language, and culture
Authors: WINKER KEVIN
Published: July 2024

Standardized taxonomies and lists of birds were created to improve communication. They are linguistic infrastructure―biodiversity indices and dictionaries―that have been painstakingly built and maintained and that have enhanced regional and global participation in the study and enjoyment of birds. Inclusion of people has been a core objective in creating and maintaining these standardized lists, and dissatisfaction and desires to overwrite objectionable names have been associated with them for nearly two centuries. Suggestions that bird names should be changed are continuous. Today, these suggestions include the view that some bird names must be changed to make them more accurate, inoffensive, and culturally appropriate to further increase diversity and inclusion among ornithologists and bird watchers. The latter, meritorious goal has been largely successful thus far despite many ongoing objections. Historic examples indicate that large-scale name changes, however, are not needed to accomplish major societal goals of inclusion. Some barriers to inclusion likely remain, and some changes are likely needed for English names. Often overlooked or underappreciated in name change discussions are that: 1) standardized names lists have had numerically staggering success in fostering inclusion of diverse participants globally; 2) stability is vital in such systems, and destabilization has exclusionary effects; 3) dissatisfaction with such lists and the names they include has been ongoing since these naming systems began; 4) important flexibilities exist in conjunction with these communication systems that enhance local and regional communication (e.g., alternative names in English and other languages); and 5) cultural values, important as they are, are neither universally shared nor constant, and thus risk bringing divisiveness and instability when used as a central reason for change. Consideration of standardized lists of bird names as communication systems in the fuller context of history, language, and culture will improve our management of these systems and their continued utility in fostering inclusion. With standardized, stable naming systems acting as a skeleton, proactively building outwards, both within and among languages and cultures, offers a positive and productive way to increase inclusion and to improve cultural and biodiversity conservation.
Effect of Swimming Exercise on Levels of Blood Glucose, Adiponectin, Glucose-6-Phosphatase and Lipid Profile in Diabetic Wistar Rats
Authors: Olufunmilayo Isehunwa , Mojirade Layonu
Published: July 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic condition that causes persistent hyperglycemia due to insulin action or secretion. Regular physical exercise has been reported to improve glycemia and lipid profile in diabetes. However, literature is scare on the effects of swimming exercise on the serum levels of adiponectin and glucose 6 phosphatase in Wister rats with diabetes This study therefore, investigated the effects of swimming exercise on adiponectin, glucose 6-phosphatase and lipid profile in male Wistar rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. This study was carried out on 25 male Wistar rats grouped into five groups (n=5/group): group 1=control, group 2=diabetes, group 3=diabetes treated with metformin, group 4=non-diabetes and swimming exercise, group 5=diabetes and swimming exercise. Animals in groups 2, 3, and 5 were induced with Streptozotocin (STZ) 50 mg/kg intraperitoneally. After 72 hours of diabetes induction, animals with a blood glucose level of ≥ 200 mg/dl were confirmed diabetics and used for the study. Group 3 animals were treated with metformin 200mg/kg giving orally for 28 days. Animals in groups 4 and 5 were subjected to swimming exercises for 5-10 minutes during the first week until they could swim freely for 30 minutes. The animals were then allowed to swim 5 days per week for 28 days. Swimming exercise for 28 days significantly reduced blood glucose, glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Ppase), Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), Total cholesterol (TC), and Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels but caused significant increase in adiponectin and High-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels in diabetic rats compared with untreated diabetic rats. There was a significant decrease in triglyceride (TG) of diabetic animals caused by swimming for 28 days. This study demonstrated that swimming exercise for 28 days may help lower glucose level and improve insulin sensitivity by increasing adiponectin level and decreasing G6Pase activity in diabetic rats. Also, swimming exercise may help improve lipid profile in diabetic rats.
Novel Integer Division for Embedded Systems: Generic Algorithm Optimal for Large Divisors
Authors: Mahmoud Mervat Mohamed Adel , Elashker Nahla Elazab
Published: July 2024

The integer Constant Division (ICD) is the type of integer division in which the divisor is known in advance, enabling pre-computing operations to be included. Therefore, it can be more efficient regarding computing resources and time. However, most ICD techniques are restricted by a few values or narrow boundaries for the divisor. On the other hand, the main approaches of the division algorithms, where the divisor is variable, are digit-by-digit and convergence methods. The first techniques are simple and have less sophisticated conversion logic for the quotient but also have the problem of taking significantly long latency. On the contrary, the convergence techniques rely on multiplication rather than subtraction. They estimate the quotient of division providing the quotient with minimal latency at the expense of precision. This article suggests a precise, generic, and novel integer division algorithm based on sequential recursion with fewer iterations. The suggested methodology relies on extracting the division results for non-powers-of-two divisors from those for the closest power-of-two divisors, which are obtained simply using the right bit shifting. To the authors’ best knowledge of the state-of-the-art, the number of iterations in the recurrent variable division is half the divisor bit size, and the Sweeney, Robertson, and Tocher (SRT) division, which is named after its developers, involves log2(n) iterations. The suggested algorithm has an [(m/(n-1))-1] number of recursive iterations, where m and n are the number of bits of the dividend and the divisor, respectively. The design is simulated in the Vivado tool for validation and implemented with a Zynq UltraScale FPGA. The technique performance depends on the number of nested divisions and the size of a LUT. The two factors change according to the value of the divisor. Nevertheless, the size of the LUT is proportional to the range and the number of bits of the divisor. Furthermore, the equation that controls the number of nested blocks is illustrated in the manuscript. The proposed technique applies to both constant and variable divisors with a compact hardware area in the case of constant division. The hardware implementation of constant division has unlimited values for dividends and divisors with a compact hardware area in the case of large divisors. However, using the design in the hardware implementation of variable division is up to 64-bit dividend and 12-bit divisor. The result analysis demonstrates that this algorithm is more efficient for constant division for large numbers.
Participatory Assessment of Agriculture Land and Vegetation Associated Issues and Possible Interventions in Gurage Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Nekir Bethel , Yaekob Tesfaye , Negash Fetta , Bekele Teshome
Published: July 2024

Land degradation and depletion of natural forests made agriculture unsustainable and threaten communities and ecosystems as a whole. The objective of this participatory assessment was to identify researchable issues related to agricultural land and vegetation cover in Gurage zone. Accordingly, seven representative districts were selected and from each district two representative kebeles were purposively selected. Focus Group Discussion with farmers, development agents and subject matter specialists and direct observation were important primary sources of information. The survey result depicts in the Gurage zone land degradation, undulating steep slope topography, small and overwhelmed land tenure, inappropriate land use system, cultural landscape mismanagement, deforestation of indigenous trees and expansion of eucalyptus tree, and decreasing enset production are the major identified problems associated with land use and vegetation cover of the study area. In the mixed farming system, enset is produced as a homestead farm and its coverage is decreasing due to disease, lack of processing machines, and shortage of organic matter. Due to the expansion of eucalyptus and land use change, the majority of native trees are disappearing or decreasing in area coverage. Therefore, enset and eucalyptus require suitable policy attention. In the mountainous areas of Gurage; limited land availability, soil degradation, shortage of appropriate farm technologies, water scarcity, lack of knowledge for alpine agriculture and inconvenient topography for mechanized farming machines issues threaten agriculture of area. Despite the fact that there are few attempts to control land degradation; the issue still needs much attention. Appropriate agricultural technologies and knowledge suited for mountain agriculture, dense populations, enset-based farming systems, and small land tenure are important priority research focus areas for future research.
Conformance and Performance Evaluation of Land Use Plan of Yirba Town
Authors: Sokido Daniel , Woldemariam Addisu
Published: July 2024

The purpose of the research is to examine the conformance and performance of land use plan of Yirba town. To get accurate and adequate information on the level of achievement of urban plan, primary and secondary data sources were used with respect to land use categories. Primary data sources such as land inventory and key informants interview were exhaustively employed. Land inventory was undertaken to have firsthand information on the existing situation of general as well as detail land use of the town. Key informants interview were conducted to gather data from experts Yirba municipality, and Sidama Region Urban planning Institute. Secondary data sources such as document reviews of basic plan and strategic Plan of Yirba town, urban development policy and other legal documents were used for investigation purpose. GIS, Microsoft office word, and excel were used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data. The results of the analysis were presented in the form of maps, graph, chart, and tables. Descriptive and explanatory analysis research designs were employed. The results of analysis elucidates that conformance evaluation has vital contribution to avoid wastage of urban land and the best use of available space. The performance evaluation results make clear the overall achievement of urban plan for the stated town is low. Even though it is overlooked, the conformance evaluation that is conducted prior to the approval of the proposed plan and during implementation is crucial for preventing the wastage of urban land and significantly helps for proper implementation. A full-fledged performance evaluation is recommended before the commencement of new urban plan for the town. Conducting such performance evaluation helps identify the level of success or failure, and the gaps of the prior plan. Since action plans and phasing plans are tools for implementation, they must be developed in tandem with land use plans for the proper execution of urban plans. Urban planning is regarded to be a collaborative field. It necessitates cooperation of numerous teams or experts during the planning and execution stages.
Impact of Sustainable Land Management Program on the Livelihoods of Smallholder Farmers in Semen Bench District, South West Ethiopia
Authors: Ali Assen
Published: July 2024

The Sustainable Land Management Programme was launched in 2008 to address to reduce land degradation, improve land productivity, contribute significantly to adaptation to and mitigation of climate change, to protect of soil erosion, conserve to natural resources, and improve of smallholder farmers' standard of living. The overall objective of the study is to impact of a sustainable land management program in southwest Ethiopia's Semen Bench district on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. The study used to cross-sectional survey study design. Two Kebeles were purposively selected based on participation and coverage of soil and water conservation practices implemented by sustainable land management program established in the study area. systematic sampling techniques was used to select 124 respondents from the Kebeles household heads. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and independent sample t-test. The study revealed significant differences in maize yield, taro and coffee yields. The results also showed a highly significant difference (p<0.05) in the mean total yearly income of adopter and non-adopter households, at 24,963.8±2783.12 and 14,927.9±2200.2 birr, respectively. It is determined that the implementation of a sustainable land management program enhances agricultural productivity and household income by conserving land resources. To improve household income, crop productivity, and land resource conservation, this study suggests that farmers be incentivized and supported to adopt integrated sustainable land management approaches.
COVID-19 Vaccine Risk Perception and Associated Vaccine Hesitancy Among HIV-Infected People at Parirenyatwa Centre of Excellence
Authors: Fungirayi Moreblessing , Rukweza Judith , Mhlanga Maxwell
Published: July 2024

Background: The impact of COVID-19 on people living with HIV (PLWH) is particularly concerning due to their existing health vulnerabilities. The low uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine and the failure to achieve herd immunity highlight the need to address vaccine hesitancy, especially in developing countries battling multiple infectious diseases. Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationship between COVID-19 vaccine risk perception and vaccine hesitancy among PLWH. Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional design was used, involving 348 participants from Parirenyatwa Centre of Excellence, recruited via systematic random sampling. Data collection, following ethical approval, was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. The data were categorized into structure, process, and outcome, and analyzed with SPSS version 22. Results: The study found that 79.9% of PLWH perceived a risk in taking the COVID-19 vaccine. About 55% had moderate knowledge of COVID-19, and 48.4% of those vaccinated had completed the vaccine course, with 43.2% receiving two doses and 7.2% only one dose. Motivations for vaccination included accessing services, travel compliance, work allowances, and entry permissions. Vaccine hesitancy was evident in 56% of participants, who were also unlikely to recommend vaccination to others. A positive correlation (r=0.159, p<0.03) was observed between vaccine risk perception and hesitancy. Barriers included fear of long waits, vaccine safety concerns, and insufficient information. Conclusions: The study demonstrated a significant positive correlation between vaccine risk perception and hesitancy among PLWH. It underscores the necessity of tailored vaccination messages addressing the specific concerns of PLWH and the need for increased governmental investment in awareness campaigns to achieve 75% herd immunity.
Epidemiological and Cardiovascular Prognostic Profile of Pediatric Arterial Hypertension at the Hospital National Ignace Deen de Conakry (Guinea)
Authors: Soriba Bangoura , Tegui Camara , Fatoumata Kaba , Aly Traore , Yaya Diallo , Abou Tolno , M’Mahawa Toure , Bobo Barry , Fousseny Diakite , Mamadouba Camara , Ibrahima Cherif , Moussa Traore , Lamine Kaba , Oumar Bah
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The prevalence of hypertension in children is much lower, around 1 to 5%. Clinical signs are still marked by accidents revealing neurological, cardiac and renal damage. The aim was to determine the epidemiological profile and prognosis of pediatric hypertension at the Ignace Deen National Hospital. Materials and methods: This was a prospective descriptive study of children and adolescents admitted to the pediatric ward of the Ignace Deen National Hospital during the period March 1 to August 31, 2021. All those aged 1 to 15 years declared hypertensive with mean systolic or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 95th percentile were included in this study. Results: Out of a total of 464 patients, our study included 12 cases, representing a 2.52% incidence of arterial hypertension; the mean age of our patients was 8 years ±2 years; males predominated, with a sex ratio equal to 2; physical signs were marked by edema of the lower limbs (66.67%); Immediately threatening hypertension represented 41.67%; hypertensive retinopathy was found in 33.33% of patients; 16.67% of patients presented with LVH; 25%; renal complications were 25%; mortality was of the same order 25%. Conclusion: The complications of pediatric hypertension are a real public health problem, with a high morbidity and mortality rate.
Economic and Social Determinants of Micronutrient Consumption and Supplementation Among Children Under Five Years in Cameroon
Authors: Njoumemi Zakariaou , Fadimatou Altine , Njoya Iliassou , Manouore Rahimatou
Published: July 2024

Malnutrition among children less than five years is an important public health challenge in resources limited countries. This study analyzes the economic and social determinants of micronutrient consumption and supplementation among Cameroonian’s children under five years. A cross-sectional study design was undertaken using a stratified nationwide, two-level sampling with a sample of 4,074 children under five years and their mothers. Data were analyzed using a logistic regression model with the level of statistical significance set at p<0.05. The slightly majority of children were male (50.8%). Children in age groups older than 23 months were less likely (OR<1; p<0.01) to be consuming and/or supplemented with micronutrients compared to children aged 6 to 23 months. Children of mothers of middle and high income quintiles were more likely to be consuming and/or supplemented with micronutrients compared to children of mothers of low and very low income quintiles, while those in the very high income quintiles were less likely (OR=0.994 p>0.05). Children of mothers with low (primary) and average (secondary) education were likely (OR=0.854 and 0.870 respectively), while children of mothers with high (tertiary) education were non-significantly more likely (OR=1.093; p>0.05) to be consuming and/or supplemented with micronutrients compared to children of non-educated mothers. Overall, these study’s findings showed that the gender of the child, the child's birth order, the children from married mothers, the education’s level of mothers, standard of living, the non-use of any contraceptive method by mothers with intention to use one, employment, religion, and the children from mothers in the low, middle and high income quintiles were significant determinants associated with the function of micronutriments’ consumption and/or supplementation in children under five in Cameroon. Policy makers should therefore strive to improve the socio-economic conditions of women while raising their awareness of the harmful effects of child malnutrition.
A History of Chinese Scholarship: Cantered on World Islam Religion Studies
Authors: Shiho Alimtohte
Published: July 2024

The sorting out of the academic history of Islamic education abroad should start with the translation of foreign achievements and their introduction and analysis. Undoubtedly, the translation and annotation work of the Quran is the most important. The Quran is a fundamental classic of Islam and a fundamental work in Islamic research. Chinese translations are certainly helpful for this study. Since the 1920s, new translations have been continuously released around the world, and to this day, there are still new translations about to be published. To study the translation and annotation of the Quran, it is necessary to immediately study Islamic law. The research on Islamic jurisprudence in the Chinese academic community started relatively late and has a relatively weak foundation. At the beginning of the research, there were only a few translations that could represent the achievements of educational law research in China. There is no doubt that the sect is Shia and the second largest sect in Islam. In terms of academic research on Shia, Shia research has not received sufficient attention from the domestic academic community for a long time. After the Islamic Revolution in Iran, scholars published and translated works, as well as papers, on Shia studies. Since the 1990s, a large number of works on this topic have emerged. Since 2003, Shia has become a hot topic in the Middle East research center. The study of Sufism is the most unique in the study of Islamic ideologies. Research on Sufism in China can be said to have just begun. Sufism not only injected important spiritual vitality into the development and dissemination of Islam, but also had a lasting impact on its internal trends and movements since modern times. Therefore, Sufism and Islamic law are the two most important foundational topics in Islamic research. From the above achievements, it can be seen that there are several types of research on Sufism in China according to its nature. But the existing achievements are still in the initial stage of academic research and need to be greatly strengthened.
A History of Chinese Scholarship: Cantered on Chinese Islam Religion Studies
Authors: Shiho Alimtohte
Published: July 2024

Research on about the Islamic religious doctrine and theology an extremely important role in Islamic studies. After the introduction of Islam to China, it gradually evolved into its own unique sectarian system, known as the "three major sects" and the "four menhuan". The research in the fields of doctrine and theology gradually progressed after the reform and opening up, and its research methods and many other limitations were not fully developed. Since the beginning of the 21st century, there have been new changes in the research in this field, not only a number of new achievements have emerged, but also a relatively systematic disciplinary system has been formed. Furthermore, Jingtang Jiaoyu (religious education) as an important component of Islamic religious education in China, the initiation of scripture education was carried out by Hudengzhou, in Shaanxi during the Ming Dynasty. This education has gone through the early development of the late Qing Dynasty and the early Republic of China, as well as before and after the Xinhai Revolution, and has a history of over 400 years. Jingtang Jiaoyu (religious education) is constantly improving at different stages of development, adapting to the trend of the times. However, since the 20th century, it has basically not been improved or developed, especially in the northwest region, where medieval conditions have been preserved and it is difficult to be accepted by the mainstream education system. In this paper, the research history of Islamic teaching in China by the Chinese academic community is taken as the research object, and a detailed introduction is given to the evolution of this research field.