bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relation with Free Objects for Action Recognition
Authors: Liang Shuang , Ma Wentao , Xie Chi
Published: August 2023

Relevant objects are widely used for aiding human action recognition in still images. Such objects are founded by a dedicated and pre-trained object detector in all previous methods. Such methods have two drawbacks. First, training an object detector requires intensive data annotation. This is costly and sometimes unaffordable in practice. Second, the relation between objects and humans are not fully taken into account in training.

This work proposes a systematic approach to address the two problems. We propose two novel network modules. The first is an object extraction module that automatically finds relevant objects for action recognition, without requiring annotations. Thus, it is
free
. The second is a human-object relation module that models the pairwise relation between humans and objects, and enhances their features. Both modules are trained in the action recognition network, end-to-end.

Comprehensive experiments and ablation studies on three datasets for action recognition in still images demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Our method yields state-of-the-art results. Specifically, on the HICO dataset, it achieves 44.9% mAP, which is 12% relative improvement over the previous best result. In addition, this work makes an observational contribution that it is no longer necessary to rely on a pre-trained object detector for this task. Relevant objects can be found via end-to-end learning with only action labels. This is encouraging for action recognition in the wild. Models and code will be released.
Learning in Cooperative Multiagent Systems Using Cognitive and Machine Models
Authors: Nguyen Thuy Ngoc , Phan Duy Nhat , Gonzalez Cleotilde
Published: August 2023

Developing effective multi-agent systems (MASs) is critical for many applications requiring collaboration and coordination with humans. Despite the rapid advance of multi-agent deep reinforcement learning (MADRL) in cooperative MASs, one of the major challenges that remain is the simultaneous learning and interaction of independent agents in dynamic environments in the presence of stochastic rewards. State-of-the-art MADRL models struggle to perform well in Coordinated Multi-agent Object Transportation Problems (CMOTPs) wherein agents must coordinate with each other and learn from stochastic rewards. In contrast, humans often learn rapidly to adapt to non-stationary environments that require coordination among people. In this article, motivated by the demonstrated ability of cognitive models based on Instance-based Learning Theory (IBLT) to capture human decisions in many dynamic decision-making tasks, we propose three variants of multi-agent IBL models (MAIBLs). The idea of these MAIBL algorithms is to combine the cognitive mechanisms of IBLT and the techniques of MADRL models to deal with coordination MASs in stochastic environments from the perspective of independent learners. We demonstrate that the MAIBL models exhibit faster learning and achieve better coordination in a dynamic CMOTP task with various settings of stochastic rewards compared to current MADRL models. We discuss the benefits of integrating cognitive insights into MADRL models.
Pernicious Anemia in an Adult with Trisomy 21
Authors: Kamada Kentaro , Kawano Osamu , Yakuwa Satoshi , Wakasa Kentaro , Uetake Kimiaki
Published: August 2023

Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease caused by the malabsorption of vitamin B12. It usually appears in the elderly. People with trisomy 21 are susceptible to autoimmune diseases. This susceptibility is thought to be due to altered expression of the AIRE gene, which is located in the 21q22.3 region. Although pernicious anemia is not common in people with trisomy 21, AIRE is pointed out as a susceptibility gene of pernicious anemia in a genome-wide association study. Here, we report a man with trisomy 21, who suffered from the pernicious anemia. When he was in his 30 s, he visited our hospital because of diarrhea and poor oral intake. He showed thrombocytopenic purpura-like features, and was diagnosed as pernicious anemia. After supplementation of vitamin B12, he recovered from the illness. The reason for his early onset may be because of trisomy 21. Altered expression of AIRE might trigger the disease.
High Seropositivity of Brucella melitensis Antibodies among Pregnant Women Attending Health Care Facilities in Mwanza, Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nyawale Helmut A. , Simchimba Michael , Mlekwa Joseph , Mujuni Fridolin , Chibwe Elieza , Shayo Prosper , Mngumi Elifuraha B. , Majid Khadija S. , Majigo Mtebe , Mshana Stephen E. , Mirambo Mariam M.
Published: August 2023

Background. Brucellosis is one of the most prevalent zoonotic neglected tropical diseases across the globe. Brucella melitensis (B. melitensis), the most pathogenic species is responsible for several pregnancy adverse outcomes in both humans and animals. Here, we present the data on the magnitude of B. melitensis antibodies among pregnant women in Mwanza, Tanzania, the information that might be useful in understanding the epidemiology of the disease and devising appropriate control interventions in this region. Methodology. A hospital-based cross-sectional study involving pregnant women was conducted at two antenatal clinics in Mwanza between May and July 2019. The pretested structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Blood samples were collected aseptically from all consenting women followed by the detection of B. melitensis antibodies using slide agglutination test. Descriptive data analysis was done using STATA version 17. Results. A total of 635 pregnant women were enrolled with the median age of 25 (interquartile range (IQR): 16-48) years and median gestation age of 21 (IQR: 3-39) weeks. Seropositivity of B. melitensis antibodies was 103 (16.2 (95% CI:13.3-19.1)). On the multivariate logistic regression analysis, as the gestation age increases, the odds of being seropositive decreases (aOR:0.972 (95% CI: 0.945-0.999),

P
=
0.045

). Furthermore, being a housewife (aOR:3.902 (95% CI:1.589-9.577),

P
=
0.003

), being employed (aOR:3.405 (95% CI:1.412-8.208),

P
=
0.006

), and having history of miscarriage (aOR:1.940 (95% CI:1.043-3.606),

P
=
0.036

) independently predicted B. melitensis seropositivity among pregnant women in Mwanza. Conclusion. High seropositivity of B. melitensis was observed among employed and housewife pregnant women in Mwanza. This calls for the need of more studies in endemic areas that might lead to evidence-based control interventions.
Selective Maintenance Strategy for a Finite Planning Horizon Considering Imperfect Maintenance
Authors: Gao Shun , Zhou Fei , Tu Jiaqing , Luo Gang
Published: August 2023

Most selective maintenance research strategies ignore the comprehensive evaluation of numerous following missions in favor of focusing just on the reliability of the next mission. In the same circumstance, however, assessing simply impending missions differs from considering the overall system’s maintenance planning outcomes. In this study, a decision‐making model for selective maintenance is developed by evaluating the total system reliability over a finite planning horizon. The purpose is to calculate the maintenance activities for each system component during each break and the best number of maintenance interruptions for the planning horizon to achieve maximum system reliability. Consequently, the selective maintenance problem is formulated as a max–min optimization model. Also, a hybrid imperfect maintenance model is used to formulate the component improvement after maintenance. Finally, simple case illustrations of maintaining the production system in coal transportation are given based on the assumed data.
A Novel Method of Self-Healing Concrete to Improve Durability and Extend the Service Life of Civil Infrastructure
Authors: Xue Yan , Gao Weiliang , Zhao Yanming
Published: August 2023

Concrete civil infrastructure often suffers severe damage to its internal structure due to insufficient durability in high and cold complex environments, affecting the service life of the infrastructure. Therefore, a novel method based on nanofillers for self-healing concrete is proposed to optimize the durability mix proportion of high-performance concrete in complex high and cold environments, which improves the strength recovery rate of concrete. Moreover, a concrete durability prediction model based on particle swarm optimization-least squares support vector machine (PSO-LSSVM) and improved NSGA-II (nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II) algorithm was proposed to quickly and accurately determine the optimization scheme of self-healing concrete mix proportion. First, the model employs PSO-LSSVM to achieve highly accurate predictions of relative dynamic elastic modulus and chloride ion permeability coefficient, which are key indicators of the concrete durability. Subsequently, the predicted regression functions for concrete durability are utilized as fitness functions, and the improved NSGA-II algorithm is employed to obtain the optimal mix ratio for durable concrete. Finally, the Pareto frontier solution set is processed using the ideal point method selection approach to determine the optimal concrete mix ratio scheme. To assess the self-healing ability of the proposed concrete, a concrete durability test study is conducted. Experimental research shows that the durability of the proposed self-healing concrete has been significantly improved. The optimized PSO-LSSVM model demonstrates excellent generalization capability. The coefficient of determination between the predicted and actual values in the test dataset is 0.9357, and the root-mean-square error is 0.10267. Building upon this, the enhanced concrete durability prediction model based on the NSGA-II algorithm proves to be highly effective in predicting the optimal concrete mix proportion scheme. The predicted values of chloride ion permeability coefficient and relative dynamic elastic modulus of the proposed model differ from the actual experimental values by 1.29% and 0.59%, significantly better than the other prediction models.
Design Sustainability for Battery Packaging to Increase Customer Satisfaction
Authors: Adriyanti Aissyah Lathifah , Sahroni Taufik Roni
Published: August 2023

An automotive battery, also known as a car battery, is a device that provides electrical energy to start a vehicle’s engine; it uses chemical reactions between lead (Pb) and other chemicals to generate electricity. The automotive industry has been receiving positive feedback from consumers, and the industry has been striving to improve the quality of its product packaging, which protects the battery and facilitates its distribution. The research aims to increase customer satisfaction in the automotive industry by creating better battery packaging design. The research employs a range of methods to achieve this goal, including conducting an initial survey with customers who have purchased and used car batteries to identify problems, 3D computer-aided design (CAD) to create design packaging development, life-cycle assessment (LCA) to measure the environmental impact of various materials and contains sustainability analysis, and finite element analysis (FEA) simulation of the packaging corrugated paper using SolidWorks 2021 software, and lastly, a customer feedback survey is conducted to assess the attributes of packaging development. The design criteria prioritize green materials, ergonomics, durability, reliability, and ease of use. In conclusion, the study recommends the use of corrugated paper for battery packaging in the automotive industry. The corrugated paper has proven to be an ecofriendly and sustainable material that provides excellent protection for the battery while also being easy to handle and use.
Diversity and conservation status of avifauna in the Surguja region, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: A.M.K. Bharos  , Anurag Vishwakarma  , Akhilesh Bharos  , Naidu Ravi
Published: August 2023

This study is aimed at updating the avifauna status and to assess major threats in six districts of the Surguja region of northern Chhattisgarh. The avifauna of this region is less studied as compared to the central and southern regions of the state. Chhattisgarh has unique and important habitats for bird species. The geographical region has two major forest types which provide a suitable habitat for many terrestrial and numerous wetlands that support aquatic bird species. The northern region is a basin of rivers Hasdeo and Rihand, prominently forested and a major coal belt. In this study, planned and opportunistic surveys were done in different seasons, and data was collected from 1995 to 2019. In the northern Chhattisgarh region,we have compiled all-district data and a total of 361 bird species were recorded. The maximum number of bird species were recorded from Koriya 318, followed by Raigarh 262, Surguja 162, Balrampur 260, Surajpur 208, and Jashpur 254. Species recorded include three Critically Endangered (CR), two Endangered (EN), five Vulnerable (VU), and 13 Near Threatened (NT). Nesting of Lesser Adjutant, Indian Vulture, White-rumped Vulture, Egyptian Vulture, and sighting of Sarus Crane in Surguja region is reported. The study also revealed the presence of nine Himalayan and sub-Himalayan species. Comparing with previous studies 117 new species were found. Chhattisgarh has ample potential and opportunities for new records as many regions have not yet been adequately explored, it can be a key birding hub for bird lovers as well as the scientific community. The large-scale mining-oriented activities, hunting, and poaching are posing serious threats, which will have a direct or indirect, impact on the future of the avifauna of the region.
Description of a new species of the genus Anthaxia (Haplanthaxia Reitter, 1911) from India with molecular barcoding and phylogenetic analysis
Authors: S. Seena  , P.P. Anand  , Y. Shibu Vardhanan
Published: August 2023

This paper deals with the description of a new Anthaxia (subgenus Haplanthaxia Reitter, 1911) species from southern India, which belongs to the Anthaxia (H.) winkleri Obenberger, 1914 species-group: Anthaxia (H.) keralensis sp. nov. In addition to a morphological description, we also generated mt. COI DNA sequences and discuss the results of a phylogenetic analysis of the new species with previously deposited COI DNA sequences of Anthaxia spp. In a maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analysis, the new species shared the same hypothetical ancestor node with A. melancholica Gory, 1841 and similar molecular characteristics (~48% similarity) with A. tenella Kiesenwetter, 1858 and A. corinthia Reiche & Saulcy, 1856. More systematic studies are required to understand the species diversity, distribution, biology, and evolutionary significance of the Anthaxia (H.) species groups.
The epiphytic pteridophyte flora of Cooch Behar District of West Bengal, India, and its ethnomedicinal value
Authors: Mandal Aninda
Published: August 2023

The district Cooch Behar, located in the north-eastern part of West Bengal, at the foothills of Eastern Himalayas, is very rich in pteridophytic flora. The present field study was undertaken during January 2021 to September 2022 to explore and document the epiphytic pteridophytic flora of the district and their ethnomedicinal uses, which was not previously done. Standard methods for plant specimen collection and herbarium techniques were followed and identification was done with the help of relevant sources. Altogether 14 epiphytic species of pteridophytes comprising 10 genera and six families were recorded. Polypodiaceae was the dominant family represented by eight species (57.14 %) and is dominated by the genus Pyrrosia (five species; 35.71 %). With the help of pretested semi-structured questionnaires, knowledgeable ethnic people and traditional healers of the studied areas were interviewed to record their traditional knowledge on pteridophytes. Out of 14 recorded species, 12 species were used by the ethnic communities and traditional healers to treat 15 different types of diseases ranging from common cough and cold to jaundice, among others. Leaves were found to the dominant plant part (58.82 %) used for the preparation of ethnomedicine. Decoction (52.94 %) of the plant parts were mostly used as herbal medicine and were frequently taken orally (58.82 %). Exploration of epiphytic pteridophytic flora and their utilization as ethnomedicine by the ethnic people has been scientifically documented for the first time from Cooch Behar district and has enriched the existing database our country.
Mantispa indica Westwood, 1852 (Neuroptera: Mantispidae), a rare species with some morphological notes from Assam, India
Authors: Choudhury Kushal
Published: August 2023

Mantispa indica (Westwood) is an insufficiently explored species under the family Mantispidae (Neuroptera) with limited understanding. Its presence has been documented in various regions of India and Nepal over time. Nevertheless, a comprehensive examination of its morphometric characteristics has been lacking. This research presents a novel morphological comparison of male and female specimens, accompanied by appropriate illustrations, from two distinct protected areas in Assam, India.
Notes on nesting behavior of Yellow-footed Green Pigeon Treron phoenicopterus (Latham, 1790) in Aligarh Muslim University campus and its surroundings, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Mohammad Maslehuddin Ayesha , Kumar Satish
Published: August 2023

The nesting behavior of the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon Treron phoenicopterus was observed during its breeding season in 2021 in an urban region encompassing the Aligarh Muslim University Campus and the surrounding areas. Data were collected by searching nests in the study area. The breeding season for the species in the study sites begins in March and re-nesting is attempted even in July. A total of 31 nests were found on 24 trees belonging to eight species. The analysis of nest site characteristics revealed that Millingtonia hortensis, Azadirachta indica, and Dalbergia sissoo were the most important nest tree species, accounting for 69% of the identified nests during the study period. These findings contribute to our understanding of the nesting behavior of the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon in an urban environment and have implications for its conservation and management.
Population demography of the Blackbuck Antilope cervicapra (Cetartiodactyla: Bovidae) at Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, India
Authors: Arandhara Subhasish , Selvaraj Sathishkumar  , Gupta Sourav , Nagarajan Baskaran
Published: August 2023

Demographic research utilizing vital rates and life tables is a standard aspect of planning protection and management strategies for wildlife populations. The Blackbuck Antilope cervicapra population at Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu, has undergone fluctuations in recent decades. The cause remains elusive, and conservation efforts may be hampered by a lack of population data. This study aimed to estimate demographic parameters using population count and age-sex classification data collected for the years 2017─2020. The overall mean population estimate derived from line-transect distance sampling was 719, with annual estimates of 716, 727, 711, and 722 for the years 2017–2020 respectively. In total, 64% of Blackbucks counted were adults, 19% subadults, and 17% fawns. Mortality was highest for adult and subadult classes for the composite female class, and fawn mortality was 20%. The net reproductive rate (R0) was as low as 3.28 offspring per generation contrasted with a rather longer mean generation time (G) as 4.75 years. Thus, the study observes a decrease in Blackbuck numbers postulated in earlier research to be driven principally by a conglomerate of factors, including reduction of usable space and interspecific resource competition. Our findings provide a baseline demography of the species and highlights the value of long-term demographic monitoring of age sex classes to understand the evolution of life histories.
Observations of Gray Fox Urocyon cinereoargenteus (Schreber, 1775) (Mammalia: Carnivora: Canidae) denning behavior in New Hampshire, USA
Authors: Allen Maximilian L. , Kritzer Jacob P.
Published: August 2023

Dens are important for mammals because they provide protection for dependent young from weather and predators. Gray Foxes Urocyon cinereoargenteus are an understudied mesocarnivore that range across North and Central America, and have limited information available on demographics and denning behaviors. We monitored a Gray Fox den in New Hampshire over the course of three years (2017–2020) to quantify behaviors and document visitation and activity patterns of Gray Foxes and other mammal species. We observed Gray Fox pairs intensively using the den during parts of the first and second years of the study. Across the 949 trap nights over which we monitored the den, use by adult Gray Foxes peaked in spring – coinciding with the pup-rearing season. During this time, the adults were diurnal with peaks in the afternoon, opposed to being crepuscular at other times of the year. We did not observe any puppies during the first breeding season, but during the second year we documented a puppy emerging from the den on 24 May 2018. All excursions by the puppy outside the den for the first five days were restricted to the immediate area near the den entrance and the puppy was always with an adult when outside the den. During the puppy’s second solo excursion, however, we documented a Bobcat Lynx rufus pounce and kill the puppy, after which the adults abandoned the den. We also observed the common (squirrels and rabbits) and uncommon (a bat) prey items brought to the den, and the den being shared among multiple species. Our observations highlight the importance of dens for protecting young, and our observations of visitation and activity patterns, as well as common and uncommon prey, help inform our understanding of the denning behavior of Gray Foxes.
Importance of conserving a critical wintering ground for shorebirds in the Valinokkam Lagoon—a first study of the avifaunal distribution of the southeastern coast of India
Authors: H. Byju  , N. Raveendran  , S. Ravichandran  , R. Kishore
Published: August 2023

Any new economic activity in a virgin area brings landscape changes, making it essential to document baseline biodiversity areas to understand the impacts on habitats. Avifaunal inventories are critical for previously undocumented areas, especially in a wintering site for shorebirds in the Central Asian Flyway, to formulate site- and species-specific conservation management tools. We present an annotated checklist of avifauna from the Valinokkam Lagoon in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu. We recorded the first baseline avifaunal data for 154 species belonging to 16 orders and 46 families from August 2016 to February 2023. Order-wise, Charadriiformes dominated the study site with 47 species; followed by Passeriformes with 39 species and Pelecaniformes with 20 species. Winter visitors constituted 37.6 % (58 species) and one Passage Migrant Rosy Starling Pastor roseus. The relative abundance indicated that 94 species were C (common), 41 species were UC (uncommon), and 19 species were Ra (rare). Eleven Near Threatened (NT) species:  Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica, Great Stone-curlew Esacus recurvirostris, Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata, Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea, Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis and Red Knot  Calidris canutus, one Endangered (EN) species Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris, and one unassessed Hanuman Plover Charadrius seebohmi according to the IUCN Red List category. This baseline data highlights the importance of Valinokkam Lagoon as an important wintering site in the Central Asian Flyway on the southeast coast of India for migratory shorebirds and the need for more conservation priorities for regional endemic birds like Hanuman Plover.
Odonata diversity in the Egra and its adjoining blocks of Purba Medinipur District, West Bengal, India
Authors: Samanta Tarak , Giri Asim , Chatterjee Lina , Basu Roy Arjan
Published: August 2023

The research was carried out over a three-year period, spanning from March 2020 to March 2023, with the aim of examining the status and diversity of Odonata fauna across a range of natural and anthropogenic habitats situated in Egra, Purba Medinipur District, located in the state of West Bengal. In total, 42 odonata species from 31 genera and seven families were identified throughout the study period from the study region. There were 28 (67%) species in the suborder Anisoptera, belonging to four distinct families. On the other hand, 14 (33%) species in the Suborder Zygoptera, divided into three different families. The four families of suborder Anisoptera were Aeshnidae (10%), Gomphidae (2%), Libellulidae (53%), and Macromiidae (2%). In the suborder Zygoptera, three families were identified, namely Coenagrionidae (24%), Lestidae (2%), and Platycnemididae (7%). %). According to the relative estimate of abundance, 38% of the species were classified as not rare (NR), 31% very common (VC), 14% common (C), 14% rare (R), and 3% as very rare (R). In addition, the IUCN red data list indicates that 41 species have been classified as Least Concern (LC), while a solitary species has been categorised as Data Deficient (DD). The identification of Odonata is a critical factor in determining the ecological well-being of an ecosystem.
Observations on cooperative fishing, use of bait for hunting, propensity for marigold flowers and sentient behaviour in Mugger Crocodiles Crocodylus palustris (Lesson, 1831) of river Savitri at Mahad, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Chavan Utkarsha M. , Borkar Manoj R.
Published: August 2023

As far as animal cognition is concerned, in comparison with mammals and birds, reptiles have been underestimated and research in reptilian cognition hasn’t progressed much due to this bias. Though crocodiles are generally stereotyped as lethargic and lacking social interactions except for territoriality, parental care and prey ambush, they demonstrate discrete behavioural repertoire in a variety of situations suggestive of refined cognition. The observations presented here were recorded during a long-term study on Muggers Crocodylus palustris of Savitri River in Maharashtra, and indicate social behaviour of remarkable acuity among Muggers to optimize foraging, which clearly hints at cooperative fishing. Also, on many occasions here, the Muggers were seen to have sticks on their snouts or lay still in the vicinity of floating twigs presumably to lure birds that desperately scouted for nesting material; though only on one occasion the unsuspecting bird was ambushed successfully. Flight initiation distances (FID) of birds that forage and nest in crocodilian habitat have been measured to assess their wariness towards crocodile’s presence.  We report the attraction of free ranging Muggers here to the yellow Marigold Tagetes erecta flowers. We also remark on apparent sentience involving a dog that was chased into the river by a pack of feral dogs, the ‘aquatic refugee’ having been seemingly nudged and escorted to safety of the bank by crocodiles.  All these behaviours are discussed in the light of previous reports involving other crocodilian species elsewhere, to assess the cognitive faculty of this species.
Historical and contemporary perpetuation of assumed occurrence reports of two species of bats in Rajasthan, India
Authors: Khandal Dharmendra , Dhar Ishan , Talmale Shyamkant S.
Published: August 2023

Hesperoptenus tickelli (Blyth, 1851) and Rhinopoma muscatellum Thomas, 1903 have been reported to occur in Rajasthan. Yet, there has been no empirical evidence of the occurrence of these bat species in the state. A comprehensive literature review reveals that the inclusion of these bats in accounts of chiropteran species in Rajasthan is due to the historical and contemporary perpetuation of assumed occurrence reports.
Bethel and Yahō: A Tale of Two Gods in Egypt
Authors: Holm Tawny
Published: August 2023

Aramaic documents from Egypt suggest that Yahwists there may have identified Yahweh/Yahō with the Syrian-Aramean deity Bethel (Bayt-ʔēl). Portions of Papyrus Amherst 63, the long and complex multi-composition Aramaic text written using Demotic script, also support this view. For instance, Bethel and Yahō seem to be paralleled with each other in two poems on the papyrus; both deities share some attributes otherwise ascribed to Baʕal-Shamayn (i.e., Hadad), yet are superior to that deity; and a priestess of Bethel is termed a khnh, the feminine form of khn, the noun used solely for a priest of Yahō and no other deity in Egypt. Other subtle connections between Bethel and Yahō can also be found.
Atraḫasīs, behind the First Sin That Cried to Heaven and Related Matters
Authors: Winitzer Abraham
Published: August 2023

This paper inquires about the source of human blood in the Biblical Primeval History, beginning with the report in the Cain and Abel story of bloodshed and a related cosmic-upsetting noise. It is posited that this unique report and the sophisticated case of ancient philology extending to it from the Eden story and relating ʾādām, “Adam,” dām, “blood,” and ʾădāmâ, “earth” are inspired by the Mesopotamian myth of Atraḫasīs, in which an equally complex case of philological speculation concerning anthropogeny also relates to an outstanding account of bloodshed and a cosmic-upsetting noise. This occasion of a posited transformation of Mesopotamian lore in the Primeval History is considered within the broader context of this intercultural contact and its underlying philological and theological assumptions and motivations.
Forced Marriage as the Crime Against Humanity of ‘Other Inhumane Acts’ in the International Criminal Court’s Ongwen Case
Authors: Maloney Kathleen M. , O’Brien Melanie , Oosterveld Valerie
Published: August 2023

The Ongwen case, concluded in December 2022 at the International Criminal Court (icc), convicted the defendant of a gender-based act that had never been litigated by the icc: forced marriage. This article argues that the judicial consideration of forced marriage in Ongwen has settled the international jurisprudence in three important ways. First, it clarified the classification of forced marriage as an ‘other inhumane act’. Second, it recognised and solidified the conduct and harms captured by the term ‘forced marriage’, distinguishing it from other crimes against humanity. Finally, it confirmed that prosecution of forced marriage does not contravene nullum crimen sine lege principles. These outcomes will play a key role in future recognition and prosecutions of forced marriage in international criminal law. This article suggests that the logical next step is to explicitly list forced marriage as a crime against humanity in the Rome Statute and the draft Crimes Against Humanity Convention.
P’yŏngyang’s Posthumous Hostages: The Repatriation of U.S. Service Members’ Remains from North Korea, 1991–2018
Authors: Zhaokun Liu
Published: August 2023

Despite the unending nuclear crises and economic sanctions characterizing U.S.-North Korean relations, North Korea has adopted non-aggressive measures to establish bilateral relations with the United States and bypass U.S.-imposed sanctions without committing to denuclearization since 1990. The repatriation of the remains of U.S. soldiers who died in North Korea during the Korean War became a convenient tool for P’yŏngyang to achieve these two strategic aims, as well as the sole arena in where the two countries displayed meaningful cooperation. This article traces the return of each batch of U.S. bodies between 1991 and 2018 to analyze North Korea’s evolving prerequisites for releasing them. North Korea’s demands included ranking U.S. officials making visits, replacing the Korean War Armistice Agreement with new peace treaties, financial aid, and avoidance of any pressure to denuclearize, all of which served the regime’s goal of surviving in the post-Cold War world. Disagreement over reimbursing North Korea for its support in excavation and the inevitable connection between remains repatriation and denuclearization were major blocks to further cooperation in retrieving remains. This study analyzes the benefits and caveats of a low-risk approach to deescalating tensions in East Asia.
Sino-French Normalization and Its Impact on the United States and Taiwan
Authors: Zhai Qiang
Published: August 2023

This article examines the making of Chinese-French cooperation during a critical period of the Cold War. In 1964, the People’s Republic of China and France established diplomatic relations. Escaping from the restraints of the rigid Cold War alliance structure, Mao Zedong and Charles de Gaulle took the bold and extraordinary move to forge a new relationship based on the geopolitical calculations of countering American-Soviet domination of world affairs. What motivated Mao’s policy toward France? How did he view de Gaulle? How did the changes in the international system in the early 1960s affect Mao’s perceptions and calculations? What was the connection between Sino-French normalization and the Vietnam conflict? How did Washington and Taipei respond to the Sino-French rapprochement? This article uses newly released Chinese Foreign Ministry Archive files, declassified U.S. government documents, and primary sources from Taiwan (including Chiang Kai-shek’s diaries) to answer these questions.
Modified Frailty Index Predicts Postoperative Complications Following Parastomal Hernia Repair
Authors: Khan Mustafa , Patnaik Ronit , Lue Melinda , Dao Campi Haisar , Montorfano Lisandro , Sarmiento Cobos Mauricio , Valera Roberto J. , Rosenthal Raul J. , Wexner Steven D.
Published: August 2023

Background

The 5-factor frailty index (5-mFI), validated frailty index with Spearmen rho correlation of .95 and C statistic >.7 for predicting postoperative complications, can be preoperatively used to stratify patients prior to parastomal hernia repairs.

Methods

Retrospective review of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database identified patients from 2015 to 2020. 5-mFI scores were calculated by adding one point for each comorbidity present: diabetes mellitus, congestive heart failure (CHF), hypertension requiring medication, severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), non-independent functional status. Primary endpoint was 30-day overall complications; secondary endpoints were 30-day readmission, reoperation, and discharge to care facility.

Results

2924 (52.2% female) patients underwent elective parastomal hernia repair. Univariate analysis showed 5-mFI > 2 had higher rates of overall ( P = .008), pulmonary ( P = .002), cardiovascular ( P = .003)), hematologic ( P = .003), and renal ( P = .002) complications and higher rates of readmission ( P = .009), reoperation ( P = .001), discharge to care facility ( P < .001), and death ( P < .001). Multivariate analysis identified a 5-mFI of 2 or more as an independent risk factor for overall complications [OR: 1.40, 1.03-1.78; P = .032], pulmonary complications [2.97, 1.63-5.39; P < .001], hematological complications [1.60, 1.03-2.47; P = .035], renal complications [2.04, 1.19-3.46; P = .009], readmission [1.54, 1.19-1.99; P < .001], and discharge to facility [2.50, 1.66-3.77; P < .001]. Reoperation was not signification on multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Parastomal hernia repair patients with 5-mFI score of >2 had higher risk of renal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and hematologic complications, readmissions, longer hospitalization, discharge to care facility, and mortality, and can be useful during preoperative risk stratification.
Relationships Between Inflammatory Parameters Derived From Complete Blood Count and Quantitative Flow Ratio in Patients With Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Xie Yanqing , Cen Han , Wang Li , Cheng Keai , Huang Li , Lu Haoxuan , Ji Lili , Chen Yudan , Zhou Zhong , Yang Zhuo , Jing Sheng , Zhu Haibo , Chen Kan , Chen Si , He Wenming
Published: August 2023

To investigate the relationships between inflammatory parameters, including neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and quantitative flow ratio (QFR) in stable coronary artery disease (CAD) patients ( n = 450) enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate the associations of NLR, PLR, MLR, and SII evaluated as continuous and binary variables with QFR ≤0.80. When treated as continuous variables, lnNLR was associated with QFR ≤0.80 with borderline significance in univariable (odds ratio (OR) = 1.60, p = .05) and multivariable analysis (OR = 1.72, p = .05), while lnMLR was associated with QFR ≤0.80 significantly in univariable analysis (OR = 1.87, p = .03) and with borderline significance in multivariable analysis (OR = 1.91, p = .05). When treated as binary variables, high levels of MLR and SII were significantly associated with QFR ≤0.80 in univariable (MLR: OR = 1.91, p = .02; SII: OR = 2.42, p = .006) and multivariable analysis (MLR: OR = 1.83, p = .04; SII: OR = 2.19, p = .02). NLR, MLR, and SII, but not PLR, were significantly associated with the severity of coronary physiology in stable CAD patients.
Urban Victims of Nonlethal Gun Violence: A Chicago-Centered Analysis Using the National Crime Victimization Survey
Authors: Rezey Maribeth L. , Olson David E. , Stemen Don
Published: August 2023

This study examines city-level rates of nonlethal violence among urban residents, including whether individual- and incident-level characteristics are associated with urban residents’ risk for gun and non-gun serious violence. Specifically, we assess which Chicagoans are most at-risk for nonlethal gun victimization, which are likely to withhold these victimizations from the police, and whether they differ from residents of other large U.S. cities in these rates and reporting behaviors. We analyze pooled 1996 to 2021 National Crime Victimization Survey data and find that Chicagoans have higher risk for nonlethal gun victimization, but similar reporting rates. Overall, urbanites withheld one in three nonlethal gun crimes from police, with an injury during the incident being the most salient factor in whether it was reported.
A Panel Study of the Relationships Between Social Media Interactions and Adolescents’ Pro-Environmental Cognitions and Behaviors
Authors: Gonzalez Anaëlle , Vandenbosch Laura , Rousseau Ann
Published: August 2023

Despite the circulation of climate content on social media, little longitudinal research has explored their relations with pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors. Considering that individual behaviors, in conjunction with structural change, are critical to mitigate climate change, this two-wave panel study among 657 adolescents examined how social media interactions (i.e., exposure, liking, commenting, sharing and posting of climate messages) reciprocally related to adolescents’ pro-environmental cognitions (i.e., descriptive and injunctive norms, attitudes) and behavior. The study showed transactional relationships between self-posting and sharing of climate content over time. Pro-environmental behavior at Wave 1 (W1) positively related to all cognitive variables at Wave 2 (W2), yet no reciprocal relationship occurred as none of the cognitive variables (W1) predicted behavior (W2) over time. Moreover, with the exception of the positive link between “liking” (W1) and attitudes (W2), no (reciprocal) relationships between social media interactions and adolescents’ pro-environmental cognitions and behavior occurred over time.
Comparison of Standard Versus Intermediate Prophylaxis Dose for Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Patients Hospitalized With COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Chakabva Munyaradzi Stanley , Polina Sarah , Brauner Mckenna , McGuire Meghan , Brown Zachary , Akthar Tabinda , Todt Michael , Polina Aws , Nova Fayika Farhat
Published: August 2023

Background: COVID-19 infection is associated with a high risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) events. VTE prophylaxis reduces the risk of these events. The optimal dose of VTE prophylaxis however remains uncertain. Objectives: To compare the incidence of VTE in patients treated with either standard dose VTE versus intermediate dose VTE prophylaxis. Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed data from 1786 adult patients admitted into the hospital with polymerase chain reaction confirmed COVID-19 infection between April 2020 to September 2021. For analysis, patients were divided into 2 cohorts: either standard dose prophylaxis treatment group (patients who received either unfractionated heparin 5000units 3 times a day or enoxaparin 30-40 mg daily subcutaneously) or intermediate dose VTE prophylaxis group (patients received either unfractionated heparin 7500 units 3 times daily or enoxaparin 30-40 mg twice a day subcutaneously). The primary outcome was incidence of VTE events described as either deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). Secondary outcome was bleeding events. Results: During the study period, 398 (22%) patients were primarily treated with standard dose VTE prophylaxis, whereas 1388 (78%) patients were treated with intermediate dose VTE prophylaxis. There was a significantly higher incidence of venous thromboembolism events noted in the standard dose prophylaxis treatment group when compared with the intermediate dose prophylaxis group (25/398 (6.3%) vs 35/1388 (2.5%) P < .001, [Odds Ratio 2.6197, 95% confidence interval = 1.5482-4.4327]). Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression, adjusting for age, obesity, and smoking, with the intermediate dose prophylaxis treatment group as the referent category revealed higher odds for incident venous thromboembolism events in the standard dose prophylaxis group. There was no statistically significant difference in bleeding events between the 2 treatment groups (9 (2.3%) for standard dose prophylaxis group vs 46 (3.3%) for intermediate dose prophylaxis group P = .26). Conclusions: Among patients hospitalized with COVID-19 infection, patients receiving intermediate dose VTE prophylaxis experienced lower incident rates of venous thromboembolism events compared to those receiving standard dose VTE prophylaxis without a statistically significant increase in the risk of bleeding events.
Research on servo valve-controlled hydraulic motor system based on active disturbance rejection control
Authors: Duan Zhijie , Sun Chungeng , Li Jipeng , Tan Yin
Published: August 2023

According to the unstable and nonlinear performances of the servo valve-controlled hydraulic motor, classical control methods based on linear theory are gradually unable to meet the high-performance requirements of the system. Using the servo valve-controlled hydraulic motor based on the third-order active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) to improve the dynamic performance of the system is feasible. The mathematical model and the simulation model of the third-order ADRC for the servo valve-controlled hydraulic motor system are established respectively. For the phase lag caused by the third-order ADRC controller, the control performance of the ADRC controller is significantly improved using the advance forecast. The simulation experiment results show that the designed ADRC controller has good tracking performance and stronger robustness of the system than the traditional PID controller.
Mumbai’s differential verticalisation: The dialectic of sovereign and technical planning rationalities
Authors: Burte Himanshu
Published: August 2023

Heeding Harris’ call to study diverse verticalisms, I discuss four distinct planning-induced verticalisations in Mumbai by interrelating issues of power, volume and intentionality. Through a novel conceptual framework illuminating the politics of planning, I show how a dialectical tension between (political–bureaucratic) ‘sovereign’ and ‘technical’ rationalities of planning shapes each of the four pathways of verticalisation. Mumbai reveals that verticalisation can be unintended – (a) planning can fail to cognise volume (and the vertical as a dimension of significance), and also (b) lack any purposive agenda related to it. Yet, the differential treatment of social groups through sovereign planning exceptions that shape verticalisation also reveals a politics of verticality. This politics illuminates planners’ conception of the public and connects it to both the amenities and violence of the vertical life that sovereign planning’s exceptions have led to. Overall, a differentiated pattern of exceptionality emerges out of the dialectic of sovereign and technical rationality in planning practice. Sovereign (and in one case, technical) exceptions deflect, suspend and displace technical rationality at different moments along each planning pathway of verticalisation. They selectively benefit businesses and elite groups sometimes by withdrawing the very health protections for the poor that lend legitimacy to planning.
Head and Neck Hemangiopericytoma: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Liu Hanlin , Lu Yuting , He Qing , Cao Xiaolin
Published: August 2023

Hemangiopericytomas (HPCs) are rare vascular tumors, and head and neck hemangiopericytoma (HNHPC) accounts for 11% to 16% of all HPCs, possibly occurring at any age. However, according to a recent study, HNHPC was most frequently observed in middle-aged adults and had a slight predominance of female patients. In the present case, we report the successful treatment of HNHPC.
Comparative Analysis of Hypertensive Tubulopathy in Animal Models of Hypertension and Its Relevance to Human Pathology
Authors: Gutsol Alex A. , Hale Taben M. , Thibodeau Jean-Francois , Holterman Chet E. , Nasrallah Rania , Correa Jose W. N. , Touyz Rhian M. , Kennedy Chris R. J. , Burger Dylan , Hébert Richard L. , Burns Kevin D.
Published: August 2023

Assessment of hypertensive tubulopathy for more than fifty animal models of hypertension in experimental pathology employs criteria that do not correspond to lesional descriptors for tubular lesions in clinical pathology. We provide a critical appraisal of experimental hypertension with the same approach used to estimate hypertensive renal tubulopathy in humans. Four models with different pathogenesis of hypertension were analyzed—chronic angiotensin (Ang) II–infused and renin-overexpressing (TTRhRen) mice, spontaneously hypertensive (SHR), and Goldblatt two-kidney one-clip (2K1C) rats. Mouse models, SHR, and the nonclipped kidney in 2K1C rats had no regular signs of hypertensive tubulopathy. Histopathology in animals was mild and limited to variations in the volume density of tubular lumen and epithelium, interstitial space, and interstitial collagen. Affected kidneys in animals demonstrated lesion values that are significantly different compared with healthy controls but correspond to mild damage if compared with hypertensive humans. The most substantial human-like hypertensive tubulopathy was detected in the clipped kidney of 2K1C rats. For the first time, our study demonstrated the regular presence of chronic progressive nephropathy (CPN) in relatively young mice and rats with induced hypertension. Because CPN may confound the assessment of rodent models of hypertension, proliferative markers should be used to verify nonhypertensive tubulopathy.