bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolism of Six Novel Nitazenes in Human Liver Microsomes Based on Ultra‐High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled With High‐Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Huang Bo‐yu , Hua Zhen‐dong , Liu Cui‐mei , Li Jing , Shu Jian‐Zhao , Li Zhiyu
Published: December 2024

Synthetic opioids are a chemically diverse group of substances that function as central nervous system depressants, among which the 2‐benzylbenzimidazole derivatives, also known as nitazenes or nitazene analogs, have recently emerged into the recreational market. The detection of these substances in biological samples largely relies on the acquisition of metabolic data. In this study, the first‐phase metabolism patterns of methylenedioxynitazene, N‐desethyl etonitazene, N‐desethyl methylenedioxynitazene, ethyleneoxynitazene, N‐pyrrolidino etonitazene, and N‐desethyl isotonitazene utilizing human liver microsomes were investigated, and the metabolites were characterized through high‐performance liquid chromatography‐high‐resolution tandem mass spectrometry. Two to eleven metabolites were identified for different nitazene analogs. It was observed that N‐dealkylation, hydroxylation, and dehydrogenation were the major metabolic reactions, with other noteworthy metabolic reactions such as reduction, oxidation, and their combinations also identified. Therefore, it is recommended to use N‐dealkylation and hydroxylation metabolites as analytical markers for monitoring of the intake of these substances.
Edge Computing Enabled Lightweight Neural Network for User Preference Based Customization Recommendation Mechanism
Authors: Li Xianghua , Sun Rui , He Shihua , Wang Chunmei
Published: December 2024

The rapid development of computer and network technologies has led to an explosion of information, ushering in an era of e‐commerce dominated by online shopping. This shift underscores the need for precise, efficient, and customized recommendation systems. Traditional search engines struggle to cater to users' diverse information needs, leading to information overload and “dark information.” The customization recommendation systems emerge as a solution, leveraging user data to discern product correlations and formulate recommendations. However, remote server latency poses a challenge for real‐time recommendations. In this regard, we necessitate the exploration of edge computing and propose an edge computing enabled lightweight neural network for a user preference‐based customization recommendation mechanism including the edge computing based user preference model, the customization preference relevance, and the lightweight neural network‐based customization recommendation. In particular, the user preference model quantifies user affinity toward products and a preference connection pattern that ensures a clean relationship map by mitigating attribute interference, while the customization recommendation integrates back‐propagation for nonlinear input–output mappings, achieving generalization while maintaining efficiency. Experimental results indicate that the proposed mechanism can enhance customization and efficiency in recommendation systems when compared to the state‐of‐the‐art methods in terms of the recommendation accuracy, error rate as well as iterations.
Medication therapy management: The evolution of clinical pharmacy services in U.S. Community‐Based Pharmacy Practice—An opinion of the community‐based practice and research network of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Authors: Eddy Emily , Ballou Jordan Marie , Finke Jessica B. , Nuffer Wesley , Avena – Woods Carmela , Bandy Veronica T. , Doucette William , Guthrie Kendall , McDonough Randy , Snyder Margie E. , Varin Jason
Published: December 2024

Pharmacists in all settings are continually expanding their roles and responsibilities and advocating for the profession. Pharmacists, as medication experts, are trained to identify and resolve medication therapy problems. The act of providing clinical pharmacist expertise is not tied to a specific practice setting, but rather is the mindset in which a pharmacist approaches patient‐centered practice. In community‐based pharmacy settings, pharmacists have been providing clinical services for years through Medication Therapy Management (MTM) and other enhanced services which prioritize quality care. This manuscript will outline the history of the pharmacist's role in managing patients utilizing MTM, present evidence of positive patient care outcomes from pharmacist‐led services in the community‐based setting, and provide recommendations for United States payers to acknowledge and increase payment for pharmacist‐led services. This paper represents the opinion of the Community‐Based Practice and Research Network of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) in the United States. It does not necessarily represent an official ACCP commentary, guideline, or statement of policy or position.
Breaking boundaries: A systematic review of the application of non‐invasive brain stimulation symptoms and sleep parameters in people with ADHD
Authors: dos Santos Renato Mendes , Marinho Victor , de Araújo Val Sabrina Nayara , Teles Ariel Soares , Sousa Daniel Lima , do Vale Bastos Victor Hugo , de Souza Leonardo Peres , de Sousa Angelina Ketllen Cachoeira , de Moraes Gabryella Stefane Firmino , Teixeira Silmar
Published: December 2024

Background

Studies of non‐invasive treatments such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can contribute in an alternative way to the symptoms treatment and changes in sleep patterns in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), due to some scientific evidence of action on cognition and clinical characteristics.

Aim

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate studies of non‐invasive brain stimulation using rTMS and tDCS on symptoms and sleep parameters in people with ADHD, in order to synthesize the main findings on intervention effects.

Methodology

A systematic review was carried out using the PRISMA protocol in the PubMed/Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, CINAHL, PEDro and Central—Cochrane library databases were initially carried out on 14 March 2024 and repeated until September 2024. Randomized clinical trials evaluating the effect of rTMS and tDCS on symptoms and changes in sleep pattern in people with ADHD were included. Primary outcomes were total severity of ADHD symptoms and sleep quality assessed by questionnaires and instrument measures.

Results

The review evidenced only positive findings in five studies for tDCS in some cognitive functions, ADHD symptoms and improvement in sleep parameters, being results with reduced efficacy due to the high heterogeneity in the experimental protocols.

Conclusion

The findings show limited evidence; however, it is suggested that the combined use of non‐invasive stimulation with other approaches, such as cognitive training, may improve the intervention effect. It is also important to consider limitations such as heterogeneity in clinical protocols, selection of participants with ADHD, including dosage and frequency. These factors should be explored in future research to optimize the application of these therapies.
Are Bilinguals More Creative Than Monolinguals? A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Acar Selcuk , Balayar Bhoj , Ozcelik Hatice Nur , Kharkhurin Anatoliy V.
Published: December 2024

This study synthesizes quantitative research on the relationship between creativity and bilingualism. Extant literature underlines the role of developmental, cognitive, and socio‐cultural factors to explain the nature of the relationship between creativity and bilingualism. While decades of research frequently indicate a positive link, contrary or mixed evidence has also been documented, necessitating a comprehensive analysis of existing quantitative data to understand the direction and strength of this relationship. Additionally, identifying factors contributing to inconsistent outcomes is crucial. Thus, we estimated the mean effects and examined various potential sources of variation, including study and participant characteristics, as well as measurement and bilingualism‐related factors, to shed light into the heterogeneity. Addressing these objectives, we analyzed 312 effect sizes from 39 studies (N = 4,917) and found a mean effect size of Pearson r = .181, 95% CI [.096, .263]. This finding shows that bilinguals are overall more creative than monolinguals. Furthermore, a significant difference was observed in the mean effects between test modality categories, with studies using numerical modality reporting significantly larger effect sizes compared to those using action/movement modality. We discuss the findings with research and practical implications.
Metabolomics‐based analysis of nitric oxide regulation of ginseng herb quality
Authors: Zhang Wei , Meng Zhaoping , Yu Pengcheng , Wang Liyang , Liu Wenfei , Song Xiaowen , Yao Yao , Liu Xiubo , Meng Xiangcai
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Ginsenosides, the primary active ingredients in Panax ginseng, are secondary metabolites. However, their content varies significantly across batches due to differences in environmental conditions and production methods. Ecological stress can increase the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants, and ROS can enhance secondary metabolism. Nitric oxide (NO) can promote the production of O2·‐ and H2O2. This study utilized physiological and non‐targeted metabolomics to investigate how NO regulates ginseng quality and how P. ginseng adapts to adversity.

RESULTS

Sodium nitroprusside (SNP, an NO donor) at 0.5 mmol·L−1 significantly increased ROS levels, with O2·‐ increasing by 64.3% (P < 0.01) and H2O2 by 79.2% (P < 0.01). Nitric oxide influenced P. ginseng metabolism, with 24 metabolites showing significant differences. Rotenone, lactic acid, and gluconic acid, which are involved in ROS metabolism, increased significantly, whereas tyrosine decreased. Metabolites involved in secondary metabolic pathways, including campesterol, ginsenosides Rh1, Rb1, Rc, Rd, Rg3, phenylalanine, and tryptophan, increased markedly, whereas 2,3‐oxidosqualene, glucose 1‐phosphate, ferulic acid, and pyrogallol decreased. Isocitric acid, succinic acid, and 3‐isopropylmalic acid, associated with respiratory metabolism, showed significant increases, but pyruvic acid decreased. Finally, 18:0 Lyso PC and 9‐hydroxy‐10E,12Z‐octadecadienoic acid, linked to cell membrane protection, increased significantly, and mannose and raffinose decreased.

CONCLUSION

Sodium nitroprusside enhances the physiological resilience of P. ginseng under stress and improves its quality. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring the therapeutic potential of puerarin on intervertebral disc degeneration by regulating apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells
Authors: Wang Xiaoqiang , Song Chao , Zhou Daqian , Mei Yongliang , Cai Weiye , Chen Rui , Lv Jiale , Shi Houyin , Liu Zongchao
Published: December 2024

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) stands as a prevalent chronic orthopedic ailment, profoundly impacting patients' well‐being due to incapacitating low back pain. Studies have highlighted a close correlation between IVDD and the programmed cell death of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells orchestrated by interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), and caspase‐3 (CASP3). Puerarin, renowned for its anti‐inflammatory attributes and its influence on IL‐1β and TNF‐α, emerges as a promising candidate for IVDD treatment. However, the precise mechanism by which it regulates apoptosis via these pathways remains ambiguous. This investigation utilizes bioinformatics to unveil the molecular intricacies of puerarin‐mediated apoptosis regulation in IVDD, substantiated by preliminary in vitro experiments. Analysis exposes aberrant expression of pivotal apoptosis‐associated proteins (IL‐1β, TNF‐α, CASP3, CASP8, and BCL2) in IVDD patients, with network pharmacology indicating puerarin's potential efficacy in IVDD treatment by modulating apoptosis and cellular senescence pathways. Further experiments elucidate puerarin's capacity to stimulate NP cell proliferation while inhibiting apoptosis, potentially contributing to IVDD mitigation. Western blot and PCR outcomes reveal escalated expression of apoptosis‐related proteins (IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and CASP3) in lipopolysaccharide‐treated NPCs, ameliorated by puerarin intervention. Molecular docking simulations demonstrate favorable binding properties of puerarin with apoptotic proteins, while flow cytometry analysis indicates its ability to diminish NPC apoptosis. These discoveries imply that puerarin might alleviate NPC apoptosis by modulating key targets, thereby potentially ameliorating IVDD. In summary, this study unveils the intrinsic mechanism of puerarin in regulating NPC apoptosis to alleviate IVDD, underscoring its therapeutic promise.
Using High‐Speed Videoendoscopy to Analyze Laryngeal Closure Parameters During Normal Swallow
Authors: Howell Rebecca J. , Mira Amna S. , Llico Andres , McKenna Victoria S.
Published: December 2024

Objective

This pilot study was designed to test the tolerability of a lower scope position and feasibility of custom‐designed MATLAB graphical user interface (GUI) used to analyze playback review of laryngeal high‐speed videoendoscopy (laryngeal HSV) during healthy volitional dry swallows. We hypothesized this method would conceptually provide time resolution for glottic closure events compared with standard (30 frames per second, fps), and enable a means to measure timing, sequence, and duration of laryngeal movements during swallowing not otherwise visualized.

Methods

A total of 14 healthy adults (4 male, 22–80 years) participated. We performed laryngeal HSV at 500fps. Measurements included: (i) feasibility and tolerability of the procedure; (ii) identification of a swallowing segment of interest (SOI) for the peak of the swallow; and (iii) description of laryngeal swallowing movements using a GUI.

Results

Fourteen subjects tolerated the procedure without discomfort and swallow images were able to be analyzed in 12. Using our GUI, mean SOI was 260 ms, yielding 130 frames for analysis (compared with seven in standard laryngoscopy). Vocal fold adduction, vocal fold medialization, and anterior–posterior arytenoid compression to the epiglottis prior to whiteout could be identified and sequenced.

Conclusion

Participants tolerated a low position of the endoscope during dry volitional swallows. The output of our GUI demonstrated a novel technique for identifying, describing, and sequencing a swallowing SOI. Future studies should investigate laryngeal closure and arytenoid positioning with a bolus and in a range of ages, genders, and etiologies in both healthy and abnormal populations to better understand swallowing physiology.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2024
Synthesis of Block Copolymers Utilizing Alkoxycarbonylation or Aminocarbonylation of Growing Chain End in Pd‐Catalyzed Living Polymerization of Olefins
Authors: Takeuchi Daisuke , Ohta Kohsuke , Kimura Yuta
Published: December 2024

Diimine Pd catalysts have been known to promote the living polymerization of olefins. Treatment of the living polyolefin with carbon monoxide followed by the addition of alcohols or amines results in alkoxycarbonylation or aminocarbonylation of the living chain end. The alkoxycarbonylation or aminocarbonylation using polymers having hydroxy or amino terminal group leads to direct linking of the end‐functionalized polymer with the living polyolefins. The introduction of hydroxy, amino, and 2‐bromoisobutyrate functional groups on the terminal of the polyolefin is also possible by the alkoxycarbonylation or aminocarbonylation. The end‐functionalized polyolefin having 2‐bromoisobutyryl terminal group acts as a macroinitiator for living radical polymerization of styrene to give poly(olefin‐block‐styrene).
Canadian Patients With Axial Spondyloarthritis Require Almost a Decade To Be Diagnosed Leading to Severe Functional Limitation. Results From the International Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis (IMAS)
Authors: Rahman Proton , Garrido‐Cumbrera Marco , Rohekar Sherry , Mallinson Michael G. , Karam Elie , Jovaisas Algis V. , Haroon Nigil , Beach Jeff , de Brum‐Fernandes Artur J. , Cohen Martin , Chan Jonathan , Correa‐Fernández Jose , Leclerc Patrick , Inman Robert D.
Published: December 2024

Objective

To evaluate the sociodemographic characteristics and disease‐related factors associated with diagnostic delay in Canadian patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA).

Methods

Data from 542 Canadian patients who participated in the International Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis online survey were analysed. Diagnostic delay was calculated as the difference between age at diagnosis and age at onset of the first symptoms reported by participants. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate possible factors associated with diagnostic delay.

Results

The mean age (± SD) of the surveyed participants was 44.3 ± 13.9 years and 63.1% were female. The average diagnostic delay was 9.0 ± 10.5 years (median, 5.0 years; interquartile range, 1.0–13.8). In the multivariate regression analysis, the three variables most strongly associated with longer diagnostic delay were use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (B = 2.991; 95% CI = 1.075–4.909), medium or high functional limitation (B = 1.541; 95%CI = 0.186–2.896), and number of HCPs seen before diagnosis (B = 1.524, 95%CI = 1.072–1.977).

Conclusion

Diagnostic delay continues to be a barrier to optimal care for Canadian axSpA patients. Significant diagnostic delay, associated with a high number of HCP visits prior to diagnosis, high use of NSAIDs, and marked functional limitation in daily life, illustrate the convoluted axSpA patient journey.
Truck‐Drone Pickup and Delivery Service Optimization With Availability Profiles
Authors: Yin Yunqiang , Li Dongwei , Wang Dujuan , Yu Yugang , Cheng T. C. E.
Published: December 2024

The absence of customers at the time of a pickup or delivery service not only results in additional costs associated with the failed service attempt but also decreases customer satisfaction. Thus, it is crucial to account for the possible convenient times of customers when designing the pickup and delivery service scheme. With the advantages of the drone in delivery speed and transport costs, we investigate the truck‐drone pickup and delivery problem with availability profiles, in which each node has an availability profile that consists of a set of service time windows, each of which has an availability probability such that the pickup or delivery service can be carried out at the node within the time window. The pickup and delivery services are collaboratively performed by a set of trucks and drones, in which each truck carries a drone. The truck can simultaneously perform the pickup and delivery services and act as an intermediate mobile warehouse, which must wait at the parking location for the return of the drone associated with it once it has dispatched the drone for performing services. The drone can independently provide the pickup and delivery services after taking off from the truck that carries it, and finally return to the truck after finishing the services. The goal is to find the optimal collaborative service scheme of the trucks and drones with the objective of minimizing the sum of the operational cost and expected service failure cost. To solve the problem, we devise an exact branch‐and‐price‐and‐cut (BPC) algorithm that incorporates a novel column‐and‐cut generation (CCG) scheme and a specialized bi‐directional labeling algorithm based on some structural properties for the intractable pricing problem, and introduce some improvement strategies to improve the performance of the solution algorithm. The numerical studies on random instances illustrate that the developed BPC algorithm performs significantly better than the CPLEX solver and two existing BPC algorithms, in which the service time window dominance rule in the developed structural properties and the improvement strategies significantly enhance the performance of the developed BPC algorithm, and the in‐out CCG scheme can efficiently overcome the degenerate behaviors of the classical column generation and cutting‐plane methods. The numerical studies on a case study of Cainiao intra‐city online‐to‐offline order delivery highlight the benefits of the truck‐drone collaborative pattern, which achieves about 10.32% cost savings and a 3.43% service failure rate decrease on average compared to the truck‐only pattern, and quantify the potential benefits of accounting for availability profiles, which can effectively make a trade‐off between the operational cost and service failure ratio.
dl‐Limonene as an Alternative Sustainable Solvent to Xylenes for the Industrial Preparation of Release Formulations
Authors: D'Orazio Giuseppe , Ragone Rosa , Rizzuti Antonino , Abatematteo Francesca Serena , Ciampa Alessandra , Ghisa Giuseppe , Casini Michela , Latronico Mario , Gallo Vito , Mastrorilli Piero , Musio Biagia
Published: December 2024

Many industrial processes use aromatic hydrocarbons as solvents, including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX). However, their use is discouraged due to their toxicological profile. Research is ongoing to find alternative more sustainable solvents. This work explores the adoption of dl‐limonene as an alternative to BTEX for the industrial preparation of release formulations containing carnauba wax to be employed in the peelable foils industry. A preliminary chemical‐physical characterization of carnauba wax was carried out using spectroscopic (ATR‐FTIR, NMR) and thermal analyses (DSC). Based on the chemical composition found for the carnauba wax used in the present study, different solvent mixtures and different concentrations of carnauba wax were tested to obtain a clear and stable solution. The most promising formulations were subjected to a coating test on a solid substrate (polyethylene terephthalate, PET) on a laboratory scale, followed by a peeling test to assess the resulting peeling strength. The dl‐limonene/ethyl acetate mixture in the 9 : 1 ratio has been identified as the most suitable to completely solubilize carnauba wax (0.38 wt/vol %) and obtain an adequate release performance. The results of these experiments were then used to set up and successfully perform an industrial‐scale coating test.
In‐situ reduction method to build Chitosan@silver nanoparticles and its application for bis(2‐hydroxyethyl) terephthalate‐based polyurethane composite films with excellent antibacterial and mechanical properties
Authors: Li Qunyang , He Hui , Liang Xutong , Shen Yue , Zhang Cheng , Kang Fan , Zhai Hongyu , Zhang Qianqian
Published: December 2024

Herein, an efficient and rapid one‐step approach to construct CS@Ag nanohybrids through in‐situ reduction of AgNO3 with L‐ascorbic acid using chitosan (CS) as carrier only at room temperature was presented. Novel polyurethane/CS@Ag composite films with remarkable properties were fabricated via the reaction of CS@Ag nanohybrid as an antibacterial and reinforcing agent with bis(2‐hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET)‐based polyurethane. With the increase of CS@Ag content, the antibacterial rate for polyurethane against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli increases. The antibacterial rate of polyurethane with 20 phr CS@Ag against S. aureus is 85.5%, and that containing 30 phr CS@Ag against E. coli is 94.9%. Thereby, the synergistic effect of CS and Ag can effectively improve the antibacterial rate of polyurethane. Meanwhile, the bond strength and tensile strength of polyurethane containing 20 phr CS@Ag are up to 8.72 MPa (improved by 74.3%) and 20.1 MPa (enhanced by 130.5%), respectively. Indeed, this work may unlock new possibilities for developing antibacterial and enhanced polyurethanes, which are expected to applied in the medical devices, food packaging, and automotive industries.

Highlights

CS@Ag was efficiently fabricated by in‐situ reduction via a one‐step approach.

BHET is used as a novel chain extender for PU.

CS@Ag is able to fully exert the synergistic effect of CS and Ag.

CS@Ag endows PU with high strength and excellent antimicrobial properties.
cDNA Display Selection of Interacting Peptide Ligands of the Guanylate Cyclase C Receptor
Authors: Ochiai Eri , Takahashi Yuki , Inokuchi Shota , Sumiya Akie , Hasegawa Makoto
Published: December 2024

Guanylate cyclase C (GC‐C), a receptor expressed on the apical membrane of intestinal mucosal cells, is activated by heat‐stable enterotoxin (STa) produced by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, as well as the endogenous ligands guanylin and uroguanylin. In this study, novel peptides that interact with GC‐C were generated using the cDNA display method, and their binding affinity and biological activity were evaluated. While the linear peptide library did not yield peptides with sufficient affinity for GC‐C, three cyclic peptides (GCC‐P1, GCC‐P2, and GCC‐P3), each containing two cysteine residues within a 15‐residue sequence, were obtained from a cyclic peptide library containing nine‐residue random sequences. GC‐P2 exhibited significant binding affinity in Biacore assays, although the affinity was lower than those reported for known ligands. Notably, GCC‐P2 and GCC‐P3 demonstrated enhanced cGMP activity when used in combination with linaclotide. However, the agonist activity of these peptides was minimal, indicating that further modifications may be necessary to develop them for clinical applications. This study successfully extracted consensus sequences of peptide motifs that bind to GC‐C from a highly diverse nine‐residue random sequence library, which provides fundamental insights for the discovery and optimization of novel GC‐C ligands.
Interface Engineering of Thin‐Film Lithium Phosphorus Oxynitride Electrolyte by Appropriate Oxygen Plasma Treatment for Flexible All‐Solid‐State Supercapacitor
Authors: Wang Jian , Ma Yao , Liu Jun , Zhu Liyan , Li Zhen , Li Ji , Huang Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

The interfacial incompatibility between lithium phosphorus oxynitride (LiPON) and anode greatly deteriorates the performance of thin‐film all‐solid‐state supercapacitors (ASSSCs). This article investigates oxygen plasma treatment to improve the interface. Through appropriate plasma treatment, a Li2O/Li3PO4 composite layer is formed by replacing nitrogen with oxygen at the LiPON surface owing to strong reactivity of oxygen plasma. This composite layer inherits the merits of both Li2O (including good mechanical strength and ultralow electrical conductivity) and Li3PO4 (including good chemical stability and relatively high ionic conductivity), and thus is quite desirable for service as a LiPON/anode buffer layer with excellent chemical and mechanical stability, high ionic conductivity and low electrical conductivity. Consequently, the corresponding plasma‐treated ASSSC displays much better electrochemical performance than the no‐treated one in terms of its higher specific capacitance (≈15.4 mF cm−2 at 0.5 µA cm−2), better cycling stability (≈95.1% of the retained capacity after 15 000 cycles) and lower self‐discharge rate (66.4% of the retained voltage after 20 h). The plasma‐treated one also shows both excellent flexible and electrochromic characteristics and demonstrates the ability of self‐adaptive temperature adjustment for smart window applications.
Integrating artificial intelligence in surgical sperm retrieval techniques: A narrative review
Authors: Kandil Hussein
Published: December 2024

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a serious form of male infertility with therapeutic options limited to trials of endocrine manipulations and repertoire of surgical interventions, also known as surgical sperm retrieval (SSR) procedures. Despite its invasive nature, SSR remains crucial in the management of NOA, offering infertile males the opportunity of fathering their biological children using assisted reproductive technologies. Success rates of SSR are variably governed by several factors including the genetic background, preoperative endocrine optimization, testicular histopathology, surgeon's microsurgical expertise, and laboratory technological and technical team's capability. This paper explores the significant role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the process of sperm retrieval among NOA patients. The role of AI has evolved from basic predictive models used for outcome assessment and patient counseling, to advanced image processing capabilities for assessing sperm parameters, and now to cutting‐edge applications in identifying the rare sperm present in the azoospermic microdissection testicular sperm extraction tissue samples.
Surgical treatment of dysphagia due to salivary mucocele (sialocele) in a cat
Authors: Zadeh Abedin Shaban , Snead Elisabeth
Published: December 2024

This case report describes a 10‐year‐old, male, neutered, indoor–outdoor, domestic shorthair cat presented for hyporexia and dysphagia of 1‐month duration tentatively attributed to a recent diet modification. The cat was ultimately referred for a second opinion. Examination under sedation confirmed a small, soft, fluctuating mass in the ventral intermandibular space. A fine‐needle aspirate of the mass revealed its contents to be of the salivary gland origin. The sublingual–mandibular salivary gland on the left side was surgically resected, and the left sublingual mucocele (ranula) was marsupialised. Histopathology confirmed a sublingual sialocele of the resected gland. The cat recovered completely, and there has been no recurrence with an 18‐month follow‐up. A sublingual sialocoele is uncommonly seen in cats, but it should be on the differential diagnosis list for dysphagia in cats, especially when a sublingual mass is present.
The Noncommutative Geometry of Yang–Mills Fields
Authors: van Suijlekom Walter D.
Published: December 2024

In this chapter we generalize the noncommutative description of Yang–Mills theory to topologically non-trivial gauge configurations.
Spectral Invariants
Authors: van Suijlekom Walter D.
Published: December 2024

In the previous chapter we have identified the gauge group canonically associated to any spectral triple and have derived the generalized gauge fields that carry an action of that gauge group. In this chapter we take the next step and search for gauge invariants of these gauge fields, to wit, the spectral action, the topological spectral action and the fermionic action. We derive (asymptotic) expansions of the spectral action.
Introduction
Authors: Zhao Xinyan
Published: December 2024

The concept of development has evolved to address a wide range of human needs, including poverty eradication, human rights protection, and environmental conservation. Following WWII, the UN and scientific progress shaped the concept of sustainable development, culminating in the 2015 Sustainable Development Goals. However, the implementation of the 17 UN SDGs is currently hindered by the non-binding nature of international law and the lack of an international judicial system for enforcement. Although the WTO’s role in influencing domestic legislation could potentially advance SDGs, current WTO rules and practices are inadequate for ensuring comprehensive SDG implementation. Efforts to integrate sustainability standards into WTO law, such as the US proposal for actionable subsidies, have not gained widespread support. While WTO provisions like GATT Article XX provide some flexibility for sustainable practices, the overall framework needs reform. This monograph argues for applying a ‘sustainability test’ by WTO panels to align trade practices with the SDGs and examines potential reforms to integrate these changes into WTO rules through a sustainable development club.
The Lack of Trade-Related Sustainable Development Commitments in WTO Law
Authors: Zhao Xinyan
Published: December 2024

Most of the 17 SDGs outlined in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development are intricately linked to trade. To achieve these goals, WTO members must ensure sustainability in international trade. Some international trade rules provide the legal norms for sustainable development, forming trade-related sustainable development commitments (TSDCs) that encompass economic development, social rights, and environmental protection. These TSDCs are crucial for achieving the UN SDGs. Trade can significantly contribute to sustainable development by spurring economic growth, reducing poverty and hunger, and facilitating the exchange of goods, commodities, and technologies essential for sustainable development. Economic prosperity also enables countries to invest more resources in protecting the environment and upholding social rights. However, while international trade can drive economic prosperity, it may also harm social rights and the environment. TSDCs are vital in mitigating these negative externalities. What exactly are TSDCs? What are their implications for sustainable development? Which TSDCs are included in the WTO Agreements, and are they sufficient to ensure that WTO members implement trade-related SDGs? This Chapter explores these questions in detail.
The Constitutionalisation of the WTO: An Ideal Methodology
Authors: Zhao Xinyan
Published: December 2024

WTO members must incorporate TSDCs and new analytical frameworks into WTO rules to enable panels to apply sustainability tests. Constitutionalising the WTO appears to be a promising approach for integrating these necessary elements into its legal framework. However, while desirable, the constitutionalisation of the WTO faces significant challenges associated with global constitutional theories. Given this, several doubts arise regarding the constitutionalisation of the WTO. The first doubt concerns its utility and whether the WTO should possess constitutional features, particularly in terms of its structure. The second doubt pertains to the institutional structure of global governance and the relationship among international governmental organisations. Can there be a hierarchical or fragmented global constitutional system that allows international organisations to govern global affairs? For the WTO, this raises the question of whether the current global governance system permits it to address non-trade issues and, if so, how. The third doubt involves the harmony of WTO constitutional norms, specifically whether WTO rules can reconcile economic freedoms with human rights. The final doubt relates to the ideology of economic constitutionalism. Constitutionalism can be used to defend various liberal ideologies and protect different legal values. What legal values should the constitutionalisation of the WTO aim to protect? In this Chapter, I will discuss the role of constitutionalisation in integrating the UN SDGs into WTO law and address these critical issues associated with this global constitutional theory.
The Sustainable Development Club: A Practical Approach
Authors: Zhao Xinyan
Published: December 2024

The ongoing WTO plurilateral negotiations could break the stagnation of WTO multilateral negotiations and bring TSDCs into WTO law. However, these negotiations still leave much to be desired. This chapter argues that WTO members should establish a sustainable development club within the WTO to constitutionalise the organisation, thereby incorporating the TSDCs required for the sustainability test into WTO rules. Why is the sustainable development club necessary for constitutionalising the WTO? Would WTO members accept this approach? This chapter addresses these two questions. The chapter begins by introducing the concept of the sustainable development club and explaining its implications for the constitutionalisation of the WTO. It also recognises that the sustainable development club, as a plurilateral mechanism, could undermine the WTO’s multilateral negotiation system. This chapter explains why WTO members must adopt this plurilateral strategy to facilitate negotiations on TSDCs. Additionally, it discusses how to minimise the side effects of this approach and anticipates the difficulties and opportunities that the sustainable development club will encounter.
Innovationen in der Versorgung von Schwangerschaftsabbrüchen während der COVID-19-Pandemie in Deutschland, Frankreich und Großbritannien
Authors: Miani Céline , Niemann Jana
Published: December 2024

Die COVID-19-Pandemie hatte drastische Auswirkungen auf die Gesundheitssysteme vieler Länder. Zur Aufrechterhaltung der Versorgung mussten umgehend Lösungen gefunden werden, wobei sich auch das Potenzial ergab, Innovationen zu beschleunigen. So wurde beispielsweise der Zugang zu Schwangerschaftsabbrüchen während der Pandemie durch „Telehealth für frühen medikamentösen Schwangerschaftsabbruch“ (TEMA) verstärkt genutzt.

In diesem narrativen Übersichtsartikel werden Deutschland, Frankreich und Großbritannien in Hinblick auf die Entwicklung der Anzahl, Methoden und Settings von Schwangerschaftsabbrüchen in den Jahren 2018–2023 verglichen. Veränderungen im Versorgungsangebot und in der Gesetzgebung während der Pandemie werden dargestellt und die Unterschiede zwischen den Ländern sowie die verschiedenen Innovationsfaktoren diskutiert. Dazu wurden nationale Statistiken analysiert und es fand eine Literatur- und Onlinerecherche (Rapid-Review) statt.

In den 3 Ländern zeigen sich unterschiedliche Abbruchraten und Anteile medikamentöser Abbrüche sowie Auswirkungen der Pandemie; ein Anstieg von Telehealth ist aus einigen Quellen ersichtlich. In Frankreich und Großbritannien, wo medikamentöser Schwangerschaftsabbruch die Hauptmethode des Abbruchs ist, waren Dienstleistungen im Zusammenhang mit Schwangerschaftsabbrüchen schon vor der Pandemie leichter zugänglich. Während der Pandemie wurde hier TEMA, inkl. Versenden von Medikamenten, offiziell eingeführt. In Deutschland wurde TEMA erstmals durch Nichtregierungsorganisationen angeboten. Nachhaltigkeit und Verbreitung der Neuerungen bleiben fragil, insbesondere in Deutschland, wo der disruptive Ansatz einiger Organisationen noch keinen Eingang in die allgemeinen Gesundheitsdienste gefunden hat.
The influence of lipoprotein(a) on aortic valve calcification in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Bormann Johanna , Rudolph Felix , Miller Maximilian , Waezsada Sara , Kirchner Johannes , Bleiziffer Sabine , Friedrichs Kai P. , Rudolph Volker , Rudolph Tanja K. , Gerçek Muhammed
Published: December 2024

Background

Elevated levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) have been recognized as substantial risk factors for cardiovascular disease and aortic stenosis (AS). However, the specific role of Lp(a) in promoting aortic valve calcification (AVC) and influencing mortality in elderly, multimorbid patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) remains unclear and warrants further investigation.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on all consecutive patients who underwent TAVR between August 2019 and June 2020 at our clinic. Patients with missing data or prior aortic valve replacement were excluded. The study cohort was stratified based on an Lp(a) threshold of 60 mg/dl according to guidelines for lipoprotein apheresis in UK and Germany.1,2

Results

In total, 454 patients were included into the analysis. Mean age was 81 ± 6 years and patients presented with a notable cardiovascular risk profile. Lp(a) values ≥ 60 mg/dl were detected in 102 (22.5%) patients, while 352 (77.5%) had Lp(a) values < 60 mg/dl. The median calcium volume of the total cohort was 894.5 [570.8; 1,382.8] mm2. No significant difference was observed between the groups (p = 0.83). Furthermore, Lp(a) did not emerge as a statistically significant predictor of calcium levels before TAVR. Notably, male gender (B = 404.11, p < 0.001) and mean trans-valvular pressure gradient (B = 15.64, p < 0.001) were identified as the strongest coefficients within the robust regression analysis. Log-rank tests indicated no prognostic utility of Lp(a) for 30-day all-cause mortality (p = 0.30) or 40 months long-term all-cause mortality (p = 0.60).

Conclusion

Lp(a) might not exert a significant effect on calcification levels or all-cause mortality in patients undergoing TAVR. Despite the study’s highly selected population, these results align with current research, supporting the assumption that the influence of Lp(a) may be confined to the early stages of AS and its progression.
Exploring the dynamics of dynamic ride-sharing: insights from a sensitivity analysis with an agent-based simulation
Authors: Müller Johannes , Nassar Eyad , Straub Markus , Moreno Ana Tsui
Published: December 2024

This study delves into the potential of dynamic ride-sharing (DRS) systems utilizing the agent-based simulation framework MATSim. Through a comprehensive sensitivity analysis across various scenarios, we investigate the efficacy of a newly developed dynamic ride-sharing extension and unveil key insights. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of user willingness in driving DRS utilization, emphasizing the necessity of flexible departure times to accommodate diverse user preferences. Furthermore, we advocate for the inclusion of short trips within DRS options and highlight the efficacy of incentivizing DRS drivers, albeit with caution regarding unintended consequences such as modal shifts. Despite observing an increase in Vehicle Kilometers Traveled after DRS implementation, our study elucidates the nuanced nature of this increase, particularly regarding unmatched DRS drivers. In a “maximum scenario”, we identify the utmost potential for DRS adoption, shedding light on its viability under conducive circumstances and offering valuable insights for future transportation planning and policy-making.
Household income and county income inequality are associated with financial hardship among cancer survivors in New Jersey
Authors: Grafova Irina B. , Devine Katie A. , Hudson Shawna V. , O’Malley Denalee , Paddock Lisa E. , Bandera Elisa V. , Llanos Adana A. M. , Fong Angela J. , Evens Andrew M. , Manne Sharon
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To examine how household income and county income inequality are linked to financial hardship among cancer survivors.

Methods

Cancer survivors (n = 864) identified through the New Jersey State Cancer Registry were surveyed from August 2018 to January 2022. Local area income inequality was reflected by the Gini index a measure of income inequality at the county level. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed, and the average marginal effect (AME) was calculated.

Results

Compared to survivors residing in households with income of $90,000 or more (higher income), those with household incomes between $50,000 and $89,999 (middle income) had a significantly higher risk of ever being unable to cover their share of the cost of cancer-related medical care (AME = .104, p = .001), higher risk of foregoing care in the past 12 months because of cost, including dental care (AME = .124, p < .001), eye care (AME = .082, p = .005), and mental health care or counseling (AME = .067, p = .002). An increase in the Gini index from the 25th to 75th percentile was associated with an increased risk of unmet needs in paying for follow-up care or medications related to cancer (AME = .021, p = .014) and an increased risk of foregoing doctor visits (AME = .017, p = .02) and eye care (AME = .03, p = .002) because of cost in the past 12 months.

Conclusions

Local area income inequality was associated with certain aspects of cancer survivors’ experience of financial hardship.

Implications for cancer survivors

It is important to consider refining and extending financial navigation programs to survivors residing in areas with high income inequality.
On the connectivity of graph Lipscomb’s spaces
Authors: Kubiś Wiesław , Miculescu Radu , Mihail Alexandru , Nowak Magdalena
Published: December 2024

A central role in topological dimension theory is played by Lipscomb’s space $$J_{A}$$

J
A

since it is a universal space for metric spaces of weight $$|A|\ge \aleph _{0}$$

|
A
|

≥

ℵ
0

. On the one hand, Lipscomb’s space is the attractor of a possibly infinite iterated function system, i.e. it is a generalized Hutchinson-Barnsley fractal. As, on the other hand, some classical fractal sets are universal spaces, one can conclude that there exists a strong connection between topological dimension theory and fractal set theory. A generalization of Lipscomb’s space, using graphs, has been recently introduced (see Miculescu and Mihail in Aequat Math, 96:1141–1157, 2022). It is denoted by $$J_{A}^{\mathcal {G}}$$

J

A

G

and is called the graph Lipscomb’s space associated with the graph $$\mathcal {G}$$
G
on the set A. It turns out that it is a topological copy of a generalized Hutchinson-Barnsley fractal. This paper provides a characterization of those graphs $$\mathcal {G}$$
G
for which $$J_{A}^{\mathcal {G}}$$

J

A

G

is connected. In the particular case when A is finite, some supplementary characterizations are presented.
Feeling with the Victim: Empathy for Suffering as a Job Stressor in Internet Child Exploitation Investigation
Authors: Kleineidam Nicolai Johannes , Fischbach Andrea
Published: December 2024

Investigating internet child exploitation cases poses unique stress for investigators routinely exposed to traumatic material. We posit that this stress arises not only from exposure but also from empathy for victims' suffering, which acts as a predominant job stressor. Drawing from the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, our study examines the relationship between empathy for suffering and burnout, as well as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), among investigators in internet child exploitation cases. We further explore how social support from colleagues moderates these effects. In an online study of 168 investigators (90 women), our findings reveal that empathy for suffering is positively correlated with PTSD and burnout (i.e., emotional exhaustion and cynicism), independent of exposure. While prolonged exposure to traumatic content contributes to PTSD, empathy significantly amplifies stress. Social support from colleagues partially moderates the relationship between stressors and adverse health outcomes, serving as a crucial job resource. Our results suggest that, while exposure to disturbing material is a job hazard, empathy for suffering emerges as the predominant stressor. These findings highlight the importance of addressing both exposure and empathy in risk assessment and health promotion strategies for internet child exploitation investigators, with a focus on enhancing social support within the workplace.
Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase 65 Antibody-associated Epilepsy and Diplopia: Two Case Reports with Literature Review
Authors: Chen Bofei , Shi Yi , Guo Jiahui , Qiu Zhiruo , Shen Beibei , Jiang Lina , Fang Jiajia
Published: December 2024

Glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) antibody-associated epilepsy and diplopia are relatively rare. This article retrospectively analyzed the disease development, diagnosis and treatment process of two cases of GAD65-associated epilepsy with diplopia. Both patients initially exhibited seizures, followed by the onset of diplopia and nystagmus. Due to differences in their diagnostic processes, the two patients showed varying prognoses after treatment. When diplopia and nystagmus are present in patients with epilepsy, these symptoms are often easily attributed to the side effects of antiepileptic medications or not associated with the epilepsy, potentially leading to the oversight of the possibility of GAD65 neurological syndrome. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of the potential association of anti-GAD65 antibodies in epilepsy patients presenting with diplopia, avoidance of missed diagnosis. Furthermore, diplopia and nystagmus may be precursors to ataxia, therefore, when diplopia occurs, proactive treatment should be initiated to prevent disease progression and avoid poor patient outcomes.