bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Processo de transformação da paisagem: estudo da avenida Getúlio Vargas em Patos de Minas (MG)
Authors: Cocozza Glauco de Paula , Elias Júlia Tavares de Sousa
Published: February 2025

A pesquisa sobre os processos de transformação da paisagem das regiões centrais é relevante no panorama contemporâneo brasileiro, já que estas áreas definem a morfologia urbana inicial das cidades médias. Dessa maneira, busca-se investigar a Avenida Getúlio Vargas em Patos de Minas  (MG), área do núcleo original e importante elemento de identificação da população. Composta, juntamente com a Praça Dom Eduardo, por dez quadras tombadas como Patrimônio Ambiental Urbano, conta com características singulares na paisagem. A metodologia abrange pesquisas bibliográficas e documentais, além de leitura fotográfica. O estudo mostra que as mutações nas diferentes fases da avenida não interferem na sua importância para o contexto urbano. Assim, a pesquisa pretende contribuir para o planejamento e a gestão da paisagem da Avenida Getúlio Vargas como patrimônio da cidade de Patos de Minas e de seus habitantes.
A paisagem sonora do Jardim Botânico da cidade de São Paulo
Authors: Reis Viviane Rodrigues dos , Pereira-Silva Erico Fernando Lopes , Candiani Gionvano , Hardt Elisa
Published: February 2025

The concept of soundscape R. Murray Schafer introduced in 1970 includes any field of acoustic study. The soundscape is directly related to the quality of life in municipalities, in which birds are essential. However, Brazil has published few studies on the subject. This study aims to characterize the soundscape of the São Paulo Botanical Garden to assess its naturalness. Monitoring was carried out for 28 days at 24 points throughout the day in the spring and summer from Monday to Sunday. Naturalness was greater during the mornings and in spring due to the contribution of many birds in the reproductive period. Natural sounds were more heterogeneous than anthropogenic ones. The central region has significant naturalness as it lies further away from urban uses and is surrounded by forest environments. In total, seven groups with acoustic similarities were formed and 88 species were identified, mainly birds. It is necessary to understand the sounds of a landscape to assess their naturalness to diagnose problems and implement measures that favor natural sounds in urban green spaces.
Da computação inspirada na natureza à inteligência de enxames aplicada ao paisagismo
Authors: Ferreira André Barcellos , Martino Jarryer Andrade de
Published: February 2025

O objetivo deste estudo é introduzir a utilização da inteligência de enxames como estratégia para o planejamento da manutenção de áreas verdes em campi universitários, ilustrando como essa ferramenta computacional pode contribuir para as áreas do paisagismo e da arquitetura. Como metodologia, o problema foi interpretado como discreto, e proposto como uma analogia ao Problema de Múltiplos Caixeiros Viajantes. A meta-heurística da Otimização por Colônias de Formigas foi aplicada para a solução do problema, e o programa AutoCAD foi utilizado como plataforma para o desenvolvimento do plug-in solucionador do problema. Como resultado, espera-se uma aplicação robusta que comprove o potencial do uso da inteligência de enxames para planejamento da manutenção de áreas verdes.
Panorama da produção científica na área de arquitetura da paisagem na pós-graduação brasileira do século XXI
Authors: Rosaneli Alessandro Filla , Veras Lúcia Maria de Siqueira Cavalcanti Veras , Schenk Luciana Bongiovanni Martins
Published: February 2025

How would recent scientific production in Landscape Architecture within Brazilian postgraduate studies be characterized? The answer to this question is structured by analyzing works published between 2000 and 2020 in 38 graduate programs in Architecture, Urbanism and Design, and Urban and Regional Planning/Demography. Based on a selection of descriptors, information from 152 theses and 676 dissertations was compiled to reflect on the scientific characteristics, peculiarities of the researchers involved, and the choices, gaps, and specificities of this production. Historically recognized in many territories and continents as a strategic part of design, planning, and development processes, Landscape Architecture, as a disciplinary and professional field of activity, still lacks visibility in Brazil. The text reveals the expansion of the spectrum of researchers and research that has focused on this field, whose intrinsic complexity presents itself as an alternative for addressing issues and emergencies that have a potential political dimension.
Impact of Diagnosis to Ablation Time on Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation and Clinical Outcomes After Catheter Ablation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis With Reconstructed Time-to-Event Data
Authors: Amin Ahmed Mazen , Elbenawi Hossam , Khan Ubaid , Almaadawy Omar , Turkmani Mustafa , Abdelmottaleb Wael , Essa Mohammed , Abuelazm Mohamed , Abdelazeem Basel , Asad Zain Ul Abideen , Deshmukh Abhishek , Link Mark S. , DeSimone Christopher V.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Current clinical guidelines emphasize the significance of rhythm control with catheter ablation but lack guidance on the timing of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation relative to the diagnosis time. We aim to investigate the latest evidence on the impact of diagnosis to ablation time (DAT) on clinical outcomes after AF ablation.

METHODS:

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through August 2024. Pairwise, prognostic, and reconstructed time-to-event data meta-analyses were conducted using R V. 4.3.1. Our primary end point was time to first AF recurrence, with secondary end points of all-cause mortality, tamponade, stroke, and heart failure.

RESULTS:

Our cohort included 23 studies with 43 711 patients. Shorter DAT was significantly associated with reduced AF recurrence across both paroxysmal and persistent AF subgroups (
P
<0.01). There was a significant decrease in benefit for paroxysmal AF over time and a slight decrease in benefit for persistent AF over time. However, the benefit remained significant in both over time. DAT per year was significantly associated with a 10% increased risk of AF recurrence. Reconstructed Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that DAT >1 year was significantly associated with a 70% increased risk of AF recurrence in paroxysmal AF and 30% in persistent AF. DAT ≤1 year was significantly associated with decreased all-cause mortality (
P
<0.01) and showed a trend toward an association with a lower incidence of stroke (
P
=0.08). However, there was no significant difference in heart failure between DAT ≤1 year and DAT >1 year.

CONCLUSIONS:

Early ablation is more beneficial in paroxysmal AF, with a notable decrease in benefit over time, while in persistent AF, the benefit remains significant but slightly decreases over time. Shorter DAT was significantly associated with decreased all-cause mortality and showed a trend toward an association with a lower incidence of stroke.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?
; Unique identifier: CRD42024525542.
Global and Temporal Trends in Utilization and Outcomes of Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Abdelfattah Omar M. , Sayed Ahmed , Al-Jwaid Ahmed , Hassan Ahmed , Abu Jazar Deaa , Narayanan Arun , Link Mark S. , Martinez Matthew W.
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Over the past decades, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy has become a contemporary treatable disease. However, limited data exist on the global trends of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) utilization and its impact on mortality/morbidity burden reduction.

METHODS:

Electronic databases were systematically searched up to March 2024 for studies reporting on ICD utilization rates in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. A random effects model was used to pool study estimates across time-era, geographic region, and age group. Primary outcome was global trends in ICD utilization. Secondary outcomes included trends of sudden cardiac death, appropriate/inappropriate shocks, and ICD-related complications.

RESULTS:

In total, 234 studies (N=92 500, 514 748 patient-years) met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 46.2 (12.4) years and 37.49% were women. A total of 12 139 patients (16.43%) received an ICD over 429 766 person-years of follow-up, with an ICD implantation rate of 2.79%/y ([95% CI, 2.35%–3.32%] I²=97.80%). Rates of ICD implantation steadily increased over time from 1990 (1.09%) to 2021 (4.01%;
P
=0.002), with noticeable geographic variation (
P
=0.008). The overall rate of appropriate ICD discharges and ICD-related complications was 3.44%/y ([95% CI, 3.08%–3.84%] I²=88.40%) and 1.98%/y ([95% CI, 1.52%–2.59%] I²=90.44%), respectively, with no significant trend over time. The overall rate of inappropriate discharges was 3.58%/y ([95% CI, 3.08%–4.16%] I
2
=88.03%), and declined significantly over time (
P
=0.044). There was a significant decline in the rates of sudden cardiac death from 1990 (0.84%/y) to 2020 (0.31%/y).

CONCLUSIONS:

Dramatic increases in ICD utilization have occurred, representing a 3.7-fold increase, with appropriate therapies occurring in 3.44%/y. In parallel a significant reduction in sudden cardiac death was observed, but there are insufficient data to demonstrate that a causative relationship exists. Geographic disparities in ICD utilization were evident, highlighting the need to improve access to specialized care for patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Geographic disparities in ICD utilization were evident, highlighting the need to improve access to specialized care for patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/
; Unique identifier: CRD42023407126
Cardiac Gene Therapy With Phosphodiesterase 2A Limits Remodeling and Arrhythmias in Mouse Models of Heart Failure
Authors: Kamel Rima , Bourcier Aurélia , Margaria Jean Piero , Jin Valentin , Varin Audrey , Hivonnait Agnès , Mercier‐Nomé Françoise , Mika Delphine , Ghigo Alessandra , Charpentier Flavien , Algalarrondo Vincent , Hirsch Emilio , Fischmeister Rodolphe , Vandecasteele Grégoire , Leroy Jérôme
Published: February 2025

Background

PDE2 (phosphodiesterase 2) is upregulated in human heart failure. Cardiac PDE2‐transgenic mice are protected against contractile dysfunction and arrhythmias in heart failure but whether an acute elevation of PDE2 could be of therapeutic value remains elusive. This hypothesis was tested using cardiac PDE2 gene transfer in preclinical models of heart failure.

Methods and Results

C57BL/6 male mice were injected with serotype 9 adeno‐associated viruses encoding for PDE2A. This led to a ≈10‐fold rise of PDE2A protein levels that affected neither cardiac structure nor function in healthy mice. Two weeks after inoculation with serotype 9 adeno‐associated viruses, mice were implanted with minipumps delivering either NaCl, isoproterenol (60 mg/kg per day), or isoproterenol and phenylephrine (30 mg/kg per day each) for 2 weeks. In mice injected with serotype 9 adeno‐associated viruses encoding for LUC (luciferase), isoproterenol or isoproterenol+phenylephrine infusion induced left ventricular hypertrophy, decreased ejection fraction unveiled by echocardiography, and promoted fibrosis and apoptosis assessed by Masson's trichrome and Tunel, respectively. Furthermore, inotropic responses to isoproterenol of ventricular cardiomyocytes isolated from isoproterenol+phenylephrine‐LUC mice loaded with 1 μmol/L Fura‐2AM and stimulated at 1 Hz to record calcium transients and sarcomere shortening were dampened. Spontaneous calcium waves at the cellular level were promoted as well as ventricular arrhythmias evoked in vivo by catheter‐mediated ventricular pacing after isoproterenol (1.5 mg/kg) and atropine (1 mg/kg) injection. However, increased PDE2A blunted these adverse outcomes evoked by sympathomimetic amines.

Conclusions

Cardiac gene therapy with PDE2A limits left ventricle remodeling, dysfunction, and arrhythmias evoked by catecholamines, providing evidence that increasing PDE2A activity acutely could prevent progression toward heart failure.
Effectiveness of an Impella Versus Intra‐Aortic Balloon Pump in Patients Who Received Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Nishimoto Yuji , Ohbe Hiroyuki , Nakata Jun , Takiguchi Toru , Nakajima Mikio , Sasabuchi Yusuke , Isogai Toshiaki , Matsui Hiroki , Sato Yukihito , Watanabe Tetsuya , Yamada Takahisa , Fukunami Masatake , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: February 2025

Background

It is unclear whether an intra‐aortic balloon pump (IABP) or percutaneous ventricular assist device (Impella) in combination with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is better.

Methods

Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database from September 2016 to March 2022, we identified inpatients who received an Impella or IABP in combination with ECMO (ECPella or ECMO+IABP group, respectively). The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality, and the secondary outcomes included the length of hospital stay, length of ECMO, total hospitalization cost, complications, and durable mechanical circulatory support implantations. Propensity score matching was performed to compare the outcomes between the groups.

Results

Of 14 319 eligible patients, 590 (4.1%) received ECPella and 13 729 (96%) received ECMO+IABP. The mean age of patients was 65 years, 77% were men, and 57% had acute coronary syndrome. After propensity score matching, the patient characteristics were well balanced between the groups. The 14‐day mortality rate was lower in the ECPella group than in the ECMO+IABP group (28.0% versus 36.8%; risk difference, −8.2% [95% CI, −13.8 to −2.7]), whereas there was no significant difference in in‐hospital mortality between the groups (58.3% versus 56.6%; risk difference, 2.4% [95% CI, −3.5 to 8.2]). The ECPella group had a higher total hospitalization cost, increased renal replacement therapy during hospitalization, and more durable mechanical circulatory support implantations than the ECMO+IABP group.

Conclusions

This nationwide inpatient database study showed no significant difference in in‐hospital mortality between the groups, but ECPella was associated with a higher total hospitalization cost, increased renal replacement therapy during hospitalization, and more durable mechanical circulatory support implantations than ECMO+IABP.
Impact of Silent Cerebral Embolism during and after Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion on Long‐Term Cognitive Function
Authors: Wang Kexin , Wang Zhe , Jin Caiyi , Xu Mingjia , Li Mingfang , Liu Hailei , Wang Zidun , Chen Hongwu , Ju Weizhu , Chen Minglong
Published: February 2025

Background

Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) was associated with a high incidence of procedure‐related silent cerebral embolism (SCE). There are limited data regarding the long‐term cognitive trajectory of patients undergoing LAAO. The aim of our study was to comprehensively assess the acute and long‐term impact of SCE during and after LAAO.

Methods

Consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation referred for LAAO from the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University between February 2021 and February 2023 were included. All patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive assessments before and within 48 hours after the procedure. These evaluations were also repeated at 45‐day, 3‐month, 6‐month, and 1‐year follow up.

Results

Out of 75 patients included in the final analysis, 29 (38.7%) patients suffered from new SCE during LAAO. Patients with SCE exhibited a significant decline in cognitive function (Mini‐Mental State Examination) immediately after the procedure (
P
<0.001), which was not reversible during 1‐year follow‐up (
P
<0.001). Additionally, with time going on, the gap in cognitive function between patients with and without SCE became wider (SCE × 1 year: B=−4.81 [95% CI, −5.58 to −4.05];
P
<0.001). New‐onset SCE was detected in 11 (14.7%) patients during the follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging, which also showed a decline in cognitive function (
P
=0.004). The results in Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores were consistent with Mini‐Mental State Examination.

Conclusions

LAAO‐related SCE is associated with a marked impairment in cognitive function immediately after the procedure and is irreversible over a 1‐year follow‐up. New magnetic resonance‐detected SCE during follow‐up after LAAO would also be associated with a decline in cognitive function.
Temporal Trends in Mortality and Hospitalization Risk in Patients With Heart Failure According to the Hospital Frailty Risk Score
Authors: Abassi Noor K. , Nouhravesh Nina , Elmegaard Mariam , Austreim Marte , Zahir Deewa , Garred Caroline Hartwell , Butt Jawad H. , Andersen Camilla Fuchs , Strange Jarl E. , Sindet‐Pedersen Caroline , Christensen Daniel M. , Fosbøl Emil , Andersson Charlotte , Køber Lars , Schou Morten
Published: February 2025

Background

Heart failure (HF) and frailty often coexist. However, it is unknown how the interplay between HF and frailty at HF onset impacts prognosis of frail patients with HF and how this has evolved over time.

Methods and Results

We identified 131 235 patients with new‐onset HF (median age 74 years, 39.7% women) from Danish nationwide registers in 1999 to 2017. Stratification according to the Hospital Frailty Risk Score resulted in (1) 102 635 (78%) nonfrail, (2) 26 054 (20%) moderately frail, and (3) 2609 (2%) severely frail patients. The proportion of moderately frail patients increased from 13.2% to 24.9%. Five‐year absolute risks of all‐cause mortality, HF hospitalization, and non‐HF hospitalization were calculated using the Kaplan‐Meier and Aalen‐Johansen estimators. From 1999 to 2002 to 2003 to 2017, all‐cause mortality risk (95% CI) declined from 56.4% (55.8%–57.0%) to 33.3% (32.6%–34.1%), 79.8% (78.5%–81.0%) to 58.6% (57.2%–60.1%), and 90.8% (85.6%–96.0%) to 79.8% (76.4%–83.2%) in nonfrail, moderately frail, and severely frail patients, respectively. HF hospitalization risk remained almost constant over the study period. Non‐HF hospitalization risk declined from 74.0% (73.5%–74.5%) to 65.8% (65.0%–66.5%) in nonfrail patients and remained stable overall in moderately frail and severely frail patients over the study period.

Conclusions

We observed an increase in frail patients. Mortality decreased for all frailty groups but remained high for severely frail patients. These findings indicate the need for further evidence on the optimization of care for frail patients with HF, and future research should address the development of comprehensive management strategies, integrating frailty assessment into standard clinical care and focused care for older patients with HF.
Proteome‐Wide Mendelian Randomization Identifies Therapeutic Targets for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Zhang Ka , Liu Yuan , Mao Aiqin , Li Changzhu , Geng Li , Kan Hao
Published: February 2025

Background

The proteome is a key source of therapeutic targets. We conducted a comprehensive Mendelian randomization analysis across the proteome to identify potential protein markers and therapeutic targets for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).

Methods and Results

Our study used plasma proteomics data from the UK Biobank, comprising 2923 proteins from 54 219 individuals, and from deCODE Genetics, which measured 4907 proteins across 35 559 individuals. Significant proteomic quantitative trait loci were used as instruments for Mendelian randomization. Genetic associations with AAA were sourced from the AAAgen consortium, a large‐scale genome‐wide association study meta‐analysis involving 37 214 cases and 1 086 107 controls, and the FinnGen study, which included 3869 cases and 381 977 controls. Sequential analyses of colocalization and summary‐data‐based Mendelian randomization were performed to verify the causal roles of candidate proteins. Additionally, single‐cell expression analysis, protein–protein interaction network analysis, pathway enrichment analysis, and druggability assessments were conducted to identify cell types with enriched expression and prioritize potential therapeutic targets. The proteome‐wide Mendelian randomization analysis identified 34 proteins associated with AAA risk. Among them, 2 proteins, COL6A3 and PRKD2, were highlighted by colocalization analysis, summary‐data‐based Mendelian randomization, and the heterogeneity in an independent instrument test, providing the most convincing evidence. These protein‐coding genes are primarily expressed in macrophages, smooth muscle cells, and mast cells within abdominal aortic aneurysm tissue. Several causal proteins are involved in pathways regulating lipid metabolism, immune responses, and extracellular matrix organization. Nine proteins have already been targeted for drug development in diabetes and other cardiovascular diseases, presenting opportunities for repurposing as AAA therapeutic targets.

Conclusions

This study identifies causal proteins for AAA, enhancing our understanding of its molecular cause and advancing the development of therapeutics.
Epicardial Fat Tissue: A Potential Marker for Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction
Authors: Abusnina Waiel , Merdler Ilan , Cellamare Matteo , Chitturi Kalyan R. , Chaturvedi Abhishek , Feuerstein Irwin M. , Zhang Cheng , Ozturk Sevket Tolga , Deksissa Teshome , Sawant Vaishnavi , Lopez Kassandra , Lupu Lior , Haberman Dan , Ben‐Dor Itsik , Satler Lowell F. , Waksman Ron , Hashim Hayder D. , Case Brian C.
Published: February 2025

Background

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD), which mimics symptoms of obstructive coronary artery disease, has significant prognostic implications. While epicardial adipose tissue normally has a protective role, increased epicardial adipose tissue is associated with inflammation and may contribute to CMD. However, a direct correlation remains unclear. We aimed to investigate this association.

Methods and Results

The CMDR (Coronary Microvascular Disease Registry) is a prospective, 2‐center registry that is enrolling patients with angina and nonobstructive coronary artery disease who underwent invasive hemodynamic assessment of the coronary microvasculature. Patients with chest computed tomography within 1 year of CMD evaluation were included. We measured epicardial fat volume (EFV) and calculated the EFV index. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between EFV and EFV index to CMD. Our study included 130 CMDR patients with associated chest CT; 35 were diagnosed with CMD. The CMD‐negative patients were younger than the CMD‐positive patients (58.52±11.97 versus 63.37±9.56 years;
P
=0.033), with numerically fewer women (64.2% versus 74.3%;
P
=0.279). Univariate regression analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association between EFV index and CMD diagnosis (odds ratio, 1.037 [95% CI, 1.014–1.063];
P
=0.003), while no significance was observed for EFV (odds ratio, 1.006 [95% CI, 0.995–1.017];
P
=0.292).

Conclusions

Our results suggest a strong association between EFV index (a significant risk factor) and the presence of CMD. Future studies involving larger cohorts are needed to confirm the association of epicardial adipose tissue with CMD and investigate therapeutic targets to prevent CMD.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; unique identifier: NCT05960474.
Measuring the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the activeness, efficiency and international collaboration of clinical trials
Authors: Zhao Wenjing , Yuan Chi , He Zixuan , Du Jian
Published: February 2025

The disruption of clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic has been discussed widely. But no systemically study has quantitatively examined the multi-dimensional effect of COVID-19 on the clinical trials of non-COVID-19 diseases under a well-recognized disease classification system. By acquiring over 380,000 clinical trials from ClinicalTrials.gov and Dimensions, and automatically mapping trials with the WHO Global Health Estimates (GHE) cause category, this study explores the effect of COVID-19 on trials’ activeness, efficiency, and international collaboration. Beyond a global perspective, the granular comparative analysis using the USA, China, Japan, the UK as representative cases are conducted. Utilizing an interrupted time series model, we find that while aggregate number of trial registrations has remained relatively stable, there is a notable crowding-out effect for non-COVID-19 diseases, affecting both non-communicable and communicable diseases. Interestingly, despite heightened focus on COVID- 19 research, trial efficiency for other diseases remained largely unaffected. COVID-19 prompted increased global collaboration in clinical research. Through further categorization of sponsorship type and identification of digitized trials by text-mining analysis, we summarized and validated three potential factors to shed light on the observed effects of COVID-19 on clinical studies. Additionally, the valuable insights and essential lessons in managing unprecedented pandemics are discussed.

Peer Review

https://www.webofscience.com/api/gateway/wos/peer-review/10.1162/qss_a_00354
The Marginalized Speak Back: Suffering, Survival, and Solidarity in the Oral Narratives of Left-Behind Families of Slain Victims of the Philippine Drug War
Authors: Palaspas Francis Louie F. , Serquiña Oscar T.
Published: February 2025

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is infamous for his war on drugs campaign, commonly known as Oplan Tokhang, which killed countless members of urban poor communities and left numerous families suffering the consequences of losing a loved one to state violence. This article centers the narratives of ten (10) mothers and wives whose loved ones perished in Duterte’s drug war and who eventually joined the non-government organization called Rise Up for Life and for Rights that opposes drug-related extrajudicial killings and violations. Guided by Ernest Bormann’s Symbolic Convergence Theory, it brings to the surface the prevailing characters, settings, and plotlines embedded in the oral narratives of these left-behind women. Out of these converging elements, it further crafts the rhetorical vision of these women in relation to the brutal death of their beloved and to their own struggles and sufferings. This article throws into light a rhetorical vision that accounts for how families of the victims are no longer simply mothers and wives incapable of resistance and vulnerable to all forms of injustices. Informed, empowered, and open to change, they have realized and actively practice a kind of political agency in the wake of the adversities they faced during Duterte’s presidency and continue to face at present time.
New species and new records of the basidiolichen Sulzbacheromyces (Lepidostromataceae) from India
Authors: DEBNATH AMBIKESH , NAYAKA SANJEEVA , JOSEPH SILJO , NGANGOM ROSHINIKUMAR
Published: February 2025

The basidiolichens in India are rare and prior to this study, only three species were known. A detailed study of basidiolichen specimens freshly collected and some already available at herbarium LWG resulted in interesting species of Sulzbacheromyces. Notably, all these specimens were collected from northeastern states of India. Sulzbacheromyces arunachalensis is described as new to science which is characterized by its terricolous and crustose thallus; chlorococcoidal photobiont; terete to fusiform, unbranched, white to off-white basidiomata; reniform, 7.1–8.9 × 3.0–3.9 µm basidiospores. The novelty of the species is further confirmed by phylogenetic analysis of the nrITS sequence. In addition, S. bicolor and S. yunnanensis are reported for the first time in India. A key to all known species of Sulzbacheromyces from the world is provided. The discovery of the new species from northeastern India once agin proves it to be a lichen diversity hotspot. The present communication emphasises the need for special focus on basidiolichen study in India.
Primulina longiflora (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Authors: TONG YI-HUA , NI JING-BO , WANG BING-MOU
Published: February 2025

Primulina longiflora, a new species endemic to Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is most similar to P. curvituba in the shape and texture of leaf blades and the curved corolla tube, but mainly differs in having longer calyx lobes, salverform and much longer corolla, and the bifid lower stigma lobe. Conservation status and discussions on differences between this new species and morphologically similar species are also provided.
Inocybe qiluensis (Agaricales), a new nodulose-spored species with hygrophanous pileus from Shandong province, China
Authors: LIU GUOHAO , FAN YUGUANG , WANG JIANRUI , LIU YU
Published: February 2025

Shandong is a significant transition zone for China's north-south flora. To date, more than 500 species of macrofungi have been recorded in Shandong. However, only 10 species of Inocybe have been documented in Shandong and the genus Inocybe in Shandong has been less extensively documented than other genera. In the present paper, we propose a new species, I. qiluensis sp. nov., collected from broad-leaved forests dominated by Quercus acutissima. The new species is distinguished by a hygrophanous pileus, a whitish, silky-fibrillose to furfuraceous stipe with a pinkish to brownish background, small, polyhedral-nodulated basidiospores, fusiform to subfusiform hymenial cystidia, and a bi-layered pileipellis. Inocybe qiluensis is positioned within the I. assimilata group based on a three-gene (ITS-LSU-rpb2) phylogeny. Comprehensive descriptions together with macro- and micromorphological illustrations by color plates and discussions with closely related taxa have been provided.
Micromorphology and anatomy of the cypselae of a complex of South American species in Chromolaena (Asteraceae, Eupatorieae, Praxelinae)
Authors: QUEIROZ LORENA NUNES LOURENÇO , CHRIST ANDERSON LUIZ , MARZINEK JULIANA
Published: February 2025

Chromolaena (Eupatorieae) contains numerous species complexes and taxa with challenging delimitation and overlapping morphological characteristics. The present study aims to utilize the anatomical characteristics of the cypsela of the Chromolaena congesta complex. To achieve this objective, cypselae from the herbarium specimens were analyzed for their anatomy. The studied species exhibit characteristic features common to the tribe, subtribe, and genus, such as the presence of phytomelanin between the outer and inner mesocarp. The distribution of trichomes on the cypselae was found to be quite variable among the species, and the presence of glandular trichomes in some species helps to distinguish them from others. These features can be compared to facilitate the identification of the species in the complex.
Hemileccinum pruinatus (Boletaceae, Boletales), a new bolete from subtropical China
Authors: ZHAO RUN-XIANG , ZHONG QIAO-WEN , KE BIN-RONG , ZENG ZHI-HENG , ZENG HUI , ZENG NIAN-KAI
Published: February 2025

Hemileccinum pruinatus (Boletaceae, Boletales) from Fujian, subtropical China, is described as new based on morphological and phylogenetic evidence. An illustrated morphological description as well as comparisons with related species are presented. Additionally, a key to the accepted species of Hemileccinum in China is provided.
An intraspecific structure of Сicindela (s. str.) coerulea Pallas, 1773 (Coleoptera, Cicindelidae)
Authors: MATALIN ANDREY V.
Published: February 2025

An intraspecific structure of a widely distributed Asian species of tiger beetle, Сicindela coerulea Pallas, 1773, is revised and discussed. The neotype of Cicindela coerulea Pallas, 1773 as well as the lectotypes and paralectotypes of Cicindela optata Fischer von Waldheim, 1828, Cicindela przewalskii Dokhtouroff, 1887, Cicindela przewalskii var. grumi Tschitschérine, 1902 and Cicindela przewalskii var. kozlovi Tschitschérine, 1902 are designated. The new synonymy is established: Cicindela coerulea coerulea Pallas, 1773 = Cicindela coerulea lucifera Mandl, 1970, syn. nov. Cicindela coerulea selengensis Mandl, 1936 is considered a synonym of Cicindela coerulea nitida Lichtenstein, 1796, and Cicindela coerulea kozlovi Tschitschérine, 1903 is considered a synonym of Cicindela coerulea grumi Tschitschérine, 1903. The distribution map and an identification key are provided. The geographic variability of the basic colour and the white elytral pattern is discussed as well.
A redescription of Acanthinozodium odem (Levy, 2007) comb. nov. (Araneae, Zodariidae), with first description of the male
Authors: ZONSTEIN SERGEI
Published: February 2025

Zodarion odem Levy, 2007 is redescribed and transferred from Zodarion Walckenaer, 1826 to Acanthinozodium Denis, 1966; the male of this species is described for the first time. Among the members of the latter genus, Acanthinozodium odem (Levy, 2007) comb. nov. is distinguishable by a peculiar structure of the female copulatory organs, while the structure of the male palp in the considered species appears to be practically identical to that in some other congeners. In view of the newly received data, Acanthinozodium embraces 25 species; the genus is recorded for the first time in Israel, as well as in the entire Eastern Mediterranean region.
Predatory thrips in action: Scolothrips sexmaculatus (Pergande) and Scolothrips tenuipennis zur Strassen, 1965 (Thripidae) feeding on Tetranychus urticae (Acari) in Brazil
Authors: CAVALLERI ADRIANO , FERNANDEZ PATRICIA SANTOS DE CASTRO , TEIXEIRA ALEXANDRE JACINTHO , SOUZA THIAGO SAMPAIO DE , AGUIAR-MENEZES ELEN DE LIMA
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study is to report the presence in Brazil of two predatory thrips species feeding on mites in commercial hop plantations (Humulus lupulus, Cannabaceae). The mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch, is known as the two-spotted spider mite (TSSM) and is a major pest in several crops, including hop, threatening yields by damaging leaf tissues and, in severe cases, covering foliage with webs. It is native to Eurasia but is now present globally, with a wide range of natural enemies, including commercially used biological controls such as Stethorus beetles and phytoseiid mites (Sirrine et al. 2010; Turner et al. 2011).
Two new species of the genus Thalerosphyrus Eaton, 1881 (Ephemeroptera: Heptageniidae: Ecdyonurinae) from India
Authors: VASANTH M. , KUBENDRAN T. , SUBRAMANIAN K.A. , BABU R.
Published: February 2025

Two new species of the genus Thalerosphyrus are described based on larvae collected from India, viz., T. bengalensis Vasanth, Kubendran & Subramanian sp. nov. and T. sartorii Vasanth, Kubendran & Subramanian sp. nov., and these are described based on larvae collected from Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, India. The new species are closely related to T. flowersi and T. meghalayaensis and compared to all known species of the genus Thalerosphyrus from the Oriental region. These new species are strongly distinguished from T. flowersi, as demonstrated by clear photographs of the paratype specimen of the larva. A key to the known species of the genus Thalerosphyrus from India and a distribution map are provided.
A new tuberculate house gecko species (Squamata: Gekkonidae: Hemidactylus) from the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India
Authors: SAYYED AMIT , KHOT RAHUL , PURKAYASTHA JAYADITYA
Published: February 2025

A new species of Hemidactylus is described from the high elevations of rocky landscapes at Chalkewadi Plateau in the northern Western Ghats of India. Based on phylogenetic analysis using the mitochondrial ND2 gene, the new species is a member of the H. murrayi clade within the H. brookii group. Morphological analysis also revealed diagnostic characters distinguishing it from its sister species, H. varadgirii. The species is medium-sized (SVL up to 54.3 mm), with 10–11 supralabials, 9–10 infralabials, canthal region with 18–21 scales on both sides, supraciliaries separated by 21–22 scales at mid-orbit, dorsal pholidosis heterogeneous, having 15–16 rows of tubercles across the midbody, 28–31 paravertebral tubercles between pelvic and pectoral limb insertions, midsagittal ventral scales 135–147, and 30–31 scales across the belly between the lowest rows of dorsal scales at midbody. Males have 7–9 femoral pores on each side, with six or seven poreless scales in between, and there are 7–8 lamellae beneath toe IV.
Chasing the Rainbow: Decoupled phenotypic and genotypic evolution in New Guinea’s rainbow skinks (Squamata: Scincidae)
Authors: PROBST TAYLOR , FRANDSEN PAUL B. , WHITING ALISON
Published: February 2025

With the advent of molecular data, the discovery of cryptic species has become commonplace. New Guinea, a region of high vertebrate biodiversity and complex geological history, has been found to contain immense numbers of cryptic skink species. We present the first molecular phylogenetic analysis of Carlia Gray, 1845, and its sister genus Lygisaurus de Vis, 1884, across mainland New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. We find rainbow skinks exhibit significant genetic divergence with minimal morphological variation and our data suggest the existence of many undescribed species. Due to the morphologically cryptic nature of rainbow skinks, we demonstrate the efficacy of the COI gene as a “barcode” for difficult species determinations.
Divergence time and biogeographic analyses support four separate dispersal events from Australia to New Guinea for rainbow skinks from ~10–5 mya, with most groups arriving first in the East Papua Composite Terrane (EPCT) and dispersing from there to other terranes and islands. Exceptions to this pattern were observed in Lygisaurus, which dispersed first to the West Papuan portion of the Craton ~8.4mya, and the island clade of the Carlia fusca group, which dispersed to the Vogelkop peninsula ~4.7mya and from there to many islands.
A new species of the cirripede genus Proverruca Withers, 1914 (Crustacea, Thoracica) from the upper Campanian (Upper Cretaceous) of northeastern Belgium
Authors: GALE ANDREW S. , JAGT JOHN W. M.
Published: February 2025

A new species of the cirripede genus Proverruca, P. ornata sp. nov., is described from the lower upper Campanian (Belemnitella woodi belemnite Zone) Zeven Wegen Member (Gulpen Formation) at Haccourt, province of Liège, northeastern Belgium. It displays remarkable variation in external sculpture during ontogeny.
A new species of velvet gecko (Diplodactylidae: Oedura) from basalt habitat of inland north Queensland, Australia
Authors: HOSKIN CONRAD J.
Published: February 2025

Many Oedura geckos are saxicoline, and a number of these species are restricted to outcropping of a particular rock type. Most commonly this is sandstone, but some species primarily occur on other rock types, such as granite or limestone. There are few areas of extensive basalt outcropping in Australia, and these are typically of young age. Here I describe a new species of Oedura discovered in the Sturgeon Basalt outcropping of inland north-east Queensland, an extensive outcropping of deep age. Oedura atra sp. nov. is readily distinguished from congeners by its relatively dark colouration, with pattern restricted to narrow, pale bands, and other morphological features such as a short, broad tail, and a relatively wide head. It is genetically divergent from, but allied to, several Oedura species in inland north Queensland, with the ND4 mtDNA phylogeny suggesting closest relationship to O. argentea Hoskin, Zozaya & Vanderduys, 2018. Oedura atra sp. nov. appears to be restricted to basalt rocks and is only known from a localised area. However, it is likely to be more widely distributed along the extensive basalt outcropping in this region. Oedura atra sp. nov. best fits a conservation status of Data Deficient, pending further surveys and assessment of potential threats.
Comparison of Long-Term Outcomes Between Conversion to Open and Laparoscopic Subtotal Cholecystectomy in the Difficult Gallbladder: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Badve Shivani B. , Turcotte Justin , Brennan Jane C. , Klune John , Feather Cristina B. , Rehrig Scott , Kulkarni Shreyus S.
Published: February 2025

Background

A difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) confers an increased risk of bile duct injury. Traditionally, surgeons convert to open cholecystectomy (OC) as a bailout procedure for safer dissection. Laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy (LSC) has recently gained favor with comparable short-term complication rates, but differences in long-term outcomes remain unknown. We sought to compare long-term biliary outcomes between OC and LSC.

Study Design

We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study of adults who underwent non-elective LC converted to OC or LSC due to difficult dissection from 1/1/2015 to 12/31/2019. The primary outcome was a composite measure of postoperative biliary events, and we used time-to-event analysis to compare the 2 groups. We evaluated secondary outcomes using Chi-squared or independent t-tests as appropriate.

Results

Of 1089 patients who underwent non-elective LC, 68 (6%) underwent a bailout procedure (30 OC vs 38 LSC). There were no differences in demographics or comorbidities between the groups. Most patients (84%) had acute cholecystitis. Average follow-up times were 40 ∓ 29 months in OC and 54 ∓ 21 months in LSC. Biliary events occurred in 13 total patients (19%) with OC most commonly suffering bile leak (17%) and LSC most commonly having choledocholithiasis (11%). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated no significant difference in biliary events between the groups ( P = 0.71). Secondary outcomes were all similar between groups, except LSC had a shorter length of stay (2.9 ∓ 2.3 vs 5.1 ∓ 3.6 days, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

OC and LSC demonstrated comparable long-term biliary outcomes. In a difficult LC, surgeons may perform either bailout procedure to safely manage the gallbladder.
Demixing and Analysis of Complex Biological Raman Hyperspectra Based on Peak Fitting, Amplitude Trend Clustering, and Spectrum Reconstruction
Authors: Schulze H. Georg , Rangan Shreyas , Vardaki Martha Z. , Blades Michael W. , Turner Robin F. B. , Piret James M.
Published: February 2025

To better interpret the Raman spectra from mammalian cells, it is often desirable to reduce their complexity by decomposing them into the spectral contributions from individual macromolecules or types of macromolecules. Diverse methods exist for demixing complex spectra, each with different benefits and drawbacks. However, some methods require a library of component spectra that might not be available, while others are hampered by noise and peak congestion that includes many proximal overlapping peaks. Through rapid fitting of individual peaks in every spectrum of a Raman hyperspectral data set, we have obtained individual peak parameters from which we determined the trends for all the peak amplitudes. We then grouped similar trends with k-means clustering. Then we used the peak parameters of all the peaks in a given cluster to reconstruct a spectrum representative of that cluster. This method produced spectra that were less distorted by unrelated overlapping peaks or noise, were less congested than those in the hyperspectral set, and thereby improved peak identification and macromolecule recognition. We have demonstrated the application of the method with Raman spectra from a perchlorate–polystyrene model system and extended it to complex spectra from methanol-fixed mammalian cells. We were able to recover independent spectra of perchlorate and polystyrene in the model system and spectra pertaining to individual macromolecular types (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids) from the mammalian cell data. We discuss how imperfections in spectral preprocessing and peak fitting can adversely affect the results. In summary, we have provided a proof-of-concept for a novel mixture resolution method with different attributes than extant ones.
Gold Nanorod Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Substrate for l-DOPA Detection: Experimental and Theoretical Approaches
Authors: de Oliveira Tatiana Ap. , S. Martin Cibely , J.G. Rubira Rafael , de Barros Anerise , Mazali Italo O. , Zidoi Luiz P. , Batagin-Neto Augusto , Constantino Carlos J.L.
Published: February 2025

Experimental efforts aimed at detecting levodopa (l-DOPA) using surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) face a persistent challenge in obtaining a SERS signal with negatively charged nanoparticles. This challenge stems from the repulsion between deprotonated l-DOPA in aqueous solution and the charged surface of the nanoparticles, revealing dependencies on time and concentration to achieve the SERS signal. This study explores the adsorption mechanism of l-DOPA on the surface of gold nanorods (AuNRs) covered with a cetrimonium bromide (CTAB) bilayer as a colloidal solution, subsequently dried onto a solid substrate such as glass, silicon, and Au substrate. Experimental findings are supported by density functional theory theoretical calculations. The comparison between experimental and theoretical results highlights that the SERS profile can be attributed to the adsorption of l-DOPA via the catechol ring, leading to the formation of anionic and dianionic species.
The Imitation of Christ as a Model for Physician Wellness
Authors: Jones Jeremy , Nguyen Nicholas , Cooke MaryClaire
Published: February 2025

Physician burnout, studied for over fifty years in scientific literature, has been shown to negatively affect physician health, patient care, and the healthcare system. While various commendable systemic and individualistic approaches have been described and actively implemented to minimize burnout, it is important to also consider approaches to maximize physician wellness. For the Catholic physician, the ultimate model of wellness is Jesus Christ, the Divine Physician. In this article, we propose that the physician can follow the spiritual progress model of wellness presented in The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis to address burnout.
Microwave attenuation of two-way radio according to building material and smoke in disaster environments
Authors: Yeom InSu , Kim Tae Dong
Published: February 2025

Disaster environments, such as fires, distort of two-way radio communication within buildings. This article presents an experimental study on microwave attenuation based on the smoke and wall type in a disaster environment using a two-way radio with digital mobile radio communication, widely used by firefighting crews in Korea. Furthermore, we compared the microwave attenuation of the two-way radio depending on the building materials and smoke. We then present the experimental result of the microwave characteristic corresponding to the four types of walls in a specially designed anechoic chamber (3 m × 1 m × 1 m) to analyze the microwave attenuation by the building materials, with results indicating up to 82% in 200 mm thick concrete. Moreover, we evaluated the propagation attenuation based on the four types of smoke with the same density in a container space (5.8 m × 2.8 m × 2.2 m). The results showed that the microwaves were not transmitted and significantly decreased based on the building materials at 400 MHz, which is the main cause of attenuation. It shows a property of up to 36% reduction in urethane. Although the attenuation of microwaves is not significantly large according to the fuels in smoke, fuels such as urethane, plastic, and rubber have relatively small attenuation of microwaves compared to wood, and the received power corresponding to urethane in smoke decreased the most.