bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projections of severe weather and the impacts on transmission line towers in Santa Catarina, Brazil, under future scenarios of global climate change
Authors: Ferreira Nicole Costa Resende , Tavares Priscila Silva , Medeiros Gustavo Sueiro , Ferreira Leonardo Nascimento , Borges Pablo , Chou Sin Chan , Rodrigues Maria Laura
Published: December 2023

Transmission line towers are highly exposed to weather hazards. In southern Brazil, several damages to transmission lines have been reported due to severe weather events. Climate change projections indicate that the frequency and magnitude of extreme events may increase, making planning and adaptation of the transmission system exposure even more critical. In this work, we propose a severe weather index (SWI) as a proxy for detecting severe storms that can potentially result in extreme weather events. The SWI combines thresholds of instability indices based on observed severe events around the transmission tower-line systems. These indices were calculated using the downscaling by the Eta model at 20 km resolution of three global climate model projections and at 5 km of one global climate model for the historical period and the near future. The results show that the SWI captures the severe storms observed in the region. All downscaling projections agree with the increase of extreme weather events in the near future and the expansion of vulnerable areas. The constructed index can be employed to assess the risks and to plan the power transmission system better.
Índice de vulnerabilidade às perdas de água (IVuPA): concepção e aplicação
Authors: Gonçalves Simões do Carmo Cassiano , Lilla Manzione Rodrigo
Published: December 2023

A busca pela sustentabilidade está em alta, especialmente no meio acadêmico, que tem produzido conceitos e ferramentas para tal. A água tratada no Brasil está sendo muito perdida nos sistemas de abastecimento de água (SAA). Além da água, perdem-se também todos os insumos utilizados para o seu tratamento. Os sistemas de abastecimento podem se mostrar vulneráveis às suas perdas devido a fatores econômicos, regulatórios, técnicos e sociais. Eles operam constantemente e sua sequência de operação pode ser compreendida por três cadeias fundamentais: a disponibilidade e capacidade para captar água, a capacidade de transformar água bruta em água tratada e distribuí-la, e a capacidade de converter água tratada em recurso financeiro. Para avaliar essa vulnerabilidade de maneira objetiva, foi proposto o Índice de Vulnerabilidade às Perdas de Água (IVuPa), composto por 6 indicadores com pesos diferentes e por informações públicas para avaliar e classificar os municípios do estado de São Paulo. A aplicação do IVuPa classificou 7 municípios como Extremamente vulneráveis; 125 Muito vulneráveis; 128 Consideravelmente vulneráveis; 162 Pouco vulneráveis; 193 Irrisoriamente vulneráveis; e 30 sem informação. A avaliação isolada desses resultados indica um cenário razoável para o estado de São Paulo. No entanto, a distribuição da população residente nos municípios classificados é de 1,18% como Extremamente vulnerável; 62,42% Muito vulnerável; 19,38% Consideravelmente vulnerável; 8,86% Pouco vulnerável; 6,76% Irrisoriamente vulnerável; e 0,71% sem informação. Esses resultados indicam um cenário preocupante para o estado de São Paulo.
In Vivo Raman Spectroscopy Reveals Biochemical Composition of the Esophageal Tissue in Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors: Locke Andrea , Haugen Ezekiel , Thomas Giju , Correa Hernan , Dellon Evan S. , Mahadevan-Jansen Anita , Hiremath Girish
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Biochemical alterations in the esophagus of patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) are poorly understood. We used Raman spectroscopy through a pediatric endoscope to identify key Raman features reflective of the esophageal biochemical composition to differentiate between children with EoE from non-EoE controls and between children with active (aEoE) and inactive EoE (iEoE).

METHODS:

Spectral measurements were obtained using a customized pediatric endoscope-compatible fiber-optic Raman probe in real time during an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Chemometric analysis was performed to identify key Raman features associated with EoE. Pearson correlation analysis was used to assess relationship between the key Raman features and EoE activity indices. Their diagnostic utility was ascertained using the receiver operator characteristic curve analysis.

RESULTS:

Forty-three children were included in the study (EoE = 32 [74%] and non-EoE control = 11 [26%]; aEoE = 20 [63%] and iEoE = 12 [37%]). Raman intensities assigned to lipids, proteins, and glycogen:protein ratio accurately distinguished children with EoE from those without EoE and aEoE from iEoE. They significantly correlated with EoE activity indices. The Raman peak ratio for lipids had 90.6% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and an area under the curve of 0.95 to differentiate children with EoE from non-EoE controls. The glycogen:protein ratio had 70% sensitivity, 91.7% specificity, and an area under the curve of 0.75 to distinguish children with aEoE from iEoE.

DISCUSSION:

Real-time intraendoscopy Raman spectroscopy is an effective method for identifying spectral markers reflective of the esophageal biochemical composition in children with EoE. This technique may aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of EoE and help to elucidate EoE pathogenesis.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SEMIOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS AND SSC-BACTERIOSPERMIA IN INFERTILE MALE
Authors: Davidova Zh. Yu.
Published: December 2023

Aim. To analyze the relationship between semiological diagnosis and SSC (sperm sediment cytology)-bacteriospermia (SSC-mB “+”) in infertile male.
Results. 162 men (162; 30.62 %) with various combinations of semiological diagnoses were presented by SSC-mB “+”. According to investigation, SSC-mB “+” has a relationship with pathospermia. Mostly, the combinations of semiological diagnoses like agglutination, dyskinesia, asthenozoospermia, necrozoospermia, oligostenozoteratozoospermia and viscosipathy are attended SSC-mB “+”. The combinations of semiological diagnoses like pyospermia, oligoastenozoospermia, hemospermia less often are atttended SSC-mB “+”. Semiological diagnoses of oligospermia, azooospermia, cryptozoospermia and normozoospermia most are not attended SSC-mB “+”. If oligoastenotheratozoospermia, oligoastenozoospermia, viscosipathy, pyospermia, and agglutination are presented there is a high probability of SSC-mB “+”. If necrozoospermia is presented there is a low probability of SSC-mB “+”. If asthenozoospermia, dyskinesia, cryptozoospermia, azoospermia, hemospermia, and oligospermia are presented the assumption of SSC-mB “+” is unlikely.
Conclusion. The data can provide the attending physician with evidence-based information about the relationship between SSC-mB “+” and semiological diagnoses that will support a correct interpretation the outcomes of easy-to-perform microscopic methods “Basic semen examination+SSC”-ROSE which can claim to be screening for detection of bacteriospermia.
On the Interaction of Cyclohexanone Azine with PBr3. Crystal Structure of Tris(4-bromo-3a,6a-diaza-1,4-diphosphapentalen-1-yl)amine
Authors:   G.A. Razuvaev Institute of Organometallic Chemistry, Rus. Acad. Sci., Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Federation, Panova Yu. , Sushev V. , Khristolyubova A. , Zolotareva N. , Rumyantcev R. , Fukin G. , Kornev A.
Published: December 2023

The interaction of cyclohexanone azine with phosphorus(III) bromide without a solvent has been studied. It has been shown that the main reaction product is cyclohexane-annelated 1,4-dibromo-3а,6а-diaza-1,4-diphosphapentalene (2, DDP-Br2, 57 %). The by-products of the synthesis are tris(4-bromo-3а,6а-diaza-1,4-diphosphapentalen-1-yl)amine (3, 8 %) and ammonium bromide. The molecular structure of compound 3 has been studied by X-ray analysis. The crystal cell contains two pairs of enantiomers and eight THF solvate molecules, four of which are disordered over two positions. The central nitrogen atom N(7) in compound 3 forms three bonds with the phosphorus atoms of the DDP fragments P(1), P(3), P(5), located in the same plane. The nitrogen atoms of the heteropentalene fragments (N(2), N(4), N(6)) that are located closer to the center of the molecule have a planar configuration (with the sum of bond angles 359.62, 359.50, 359.38°, respectively). In its turn, for the N(1), N(3), N(5) atoms, a greater deviation from the planar structure is observed (the sum of bond angles is 353.85, 353.71, 353.96°, respectively). The peripheral phosphorus-nitrogen bonds (P(2)-N(1) 1.689(2), P(4)-N(3) 1.691(3), P(6)-N(5) 1.690(2) Å) are shorter than the corresponding bonds in neighboring five-membered rings (P(1)-N(2) 1.744(2), P(3)-N(4) 1.738(3), P(5)-N(6) 1.733(2) Å). The difference in the phosphorus-bromine bond lengths P(2)-Br(1) 2.4805(8), P(4)-Br(2) 2.4675(8), and P(6)-Br(3) 2.4836(8) Å can be caused by the presence of various short contacts Br•••H between the adjacent molecules of compound 3, as well as between compound 3 and the THF solvate molecules. It is assumed that compound 3 is formed during the side reaction of DDP dibromide (2) with ammonium bromide, which appeared in the reaction mixture as a result of the partial decomposition of cyclohexanone azine upon prolonged heating with phosphorus bromide.
Synthesis and Atomic Structure of Triphenylbismuth Bis(but-3-enoate).
Authors:   Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Federation, Drozhilkin P. , Maleeva A. , Andreev P. , Gushchin A. ,   Institute of Chemistry of High-Purity Substances RAS, Nizhny Novgorod, Russian Federation
Published: December 2023

As a result of the interaction of triphenylbismuth and vinylacetic acid with tert-butyl hydroperoxide at ambient temperature in ether, a new compound triphenylbismuth bis(but-3-enoate) Ph3Bi(O2CCH2CH=CH2)2 was obtained with the 60% yield, and the melting point of 131 °C. In the IR spectrum of the substance recorded in the KBr pellet on an “IR Prestige-21” set, Shimadzu, Japan, in the range of 4000–400 cm–1, the signals of valence vibration (v, cm–1) were found to equal 3054 (Ph-H), 2978 (CH2), 1600 (C=C), 1599 (COO-as); 1471, 1439, 1362 (COO-s), 919, 734, 680; 573 (Bi-C), 454 (Bi-O). In the 1H NMR spectrum taken in deuterochloroform on an Agilent DD2 400 spectrometer, the following signals were detected: 8.15 (dd, J = 8.3, 1.0 Hz, 6H), 7.59 (t, J = 7.6 Hz, 6H), 7.46 (dd, J = 11.0, 3.7 Hz, 3H), 5.76 (td, J = 17.1, 6.9 Hz, 2H), 4.96–4.86 (m, 4H), 2.86 (dt, J = 6.9, 1.3 Hz, 4H). 13C NMR: 40.44 (2C, -CH2-), 116.70 (2C, CH2=), 130.71 (3C, Ph), 131.13 (6C, Ph), 132.34 (6C, Ph), 133.90 (2C, =CH-), 160.38 (3C, Bi-C), 177.43 (2C, C=O). The molecular structure of the compound was found by X-ray diffraction. X-ray diffraction was performed on an Oxford Diffraction Gemini Sapphire3 diffractometer using Mo Ka radiation (λ = 0.71073 Å, graphite monochromator) at T = 293 K. P21/s, a = 12.7672(3), b = 22.0170(4), c = 8.9767(17) Å, β = 104.831(2)º, V = 2439.25(9) Å3, Z = 4. The bismuth atom in the structure has a distorted trigonal-bipyramidal coordination. The O-Bi-O axial angle is 171.5 (2)°. The Bi–O and Bi-C bond lengths are 2.280(4)–2.310(3) and 2.197(7)–2.209(6) Å.
Organyltriphenyl¬phosphonium Dichlorodicyanoaurates [Ph3PR][Au(CN)2Cl2] (R = n-Pr, i-Bu, n-Hp): Synthesis and Structure
Authors:   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation, Shevchenko D. , Khabina A.
Published: December 2023

The interaction of potassium dichlorodicyanoaurate with n-propyl-, i-butyl- and n-heptyltriphenylphosphonium bromides in water followed by the recrystallization from acetoni-trile leads to the dichlorodicyanoaurate complexes [Ph3P(n-Pr)][Au(CN)2Cl2] (1), [Ph3P(i Bu)][Au(CN)2Cl2] (2), and [Ph3P(n-Hp)][Au(CN)2Cl2] (3). Compounds 1 and 2 have been identified by the IR spectroscopy; structure of compound 3 has been determined by the X-ray diffraction analysis. According to the X-ray data, complex 3 consists of n-heptyltriphenylphosphonium cation and two types of crystallographically independent centrosymmetric square-planar dichlorodicyanoaurate anions. The phosphorus atom in the cation has a slightly distorted tetrahedral coordination with the CPC bond angles within the interval 108.3(5)–110.5(5)°; the P–C distances are 1.801(10)–1.832(10) Å. The square-planar coordination of the gold atoms in centrosymmetric anions [Au(CN)2Cl2] is almost undistorted: the CAuC and ClAuCl trans-angles equal 180, the CAuCl cis-angles vary in a narrow range 74.5(9)–105.5(9). The Au–Cl bond lengths in anions do not exceed the sum of the covalent radii of the gold and chlorine atoms and equal 2.406(3), 2.388(3) Å; the Au–C bond lengths are 2.021(14), 2.037(13); they are close to the sum of the covalent radii of the gold and carbon atoms. The structural organization in crystals 3 is caused by the H∙∙∙N≡C (2.55–2.63 Å) and С–H∙∙∙Cl–Au (2.87 Å) hydrogen bonds. Moreover, the structure contains the additional С–H∙∙∙π(Ph) contacts with the distances from the hydrogen atom to the plane of the benzene ring that are equal to 2.80 Å. Complete tables of atomic coordinates, bond lengths, and valence angles are deposited in the Cambridge structural data Bank (No. 2094701 for 3; deposit@ccdc.cam.ac.uk; http://www.ccdc.cam.ac.uk).
Synthesis and Structure of Tris(dicarboxylates) (m-tolyl)antimony
Authors:   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation, Rybakova A.
Published: December 2023

By an oxidative addition reaction the previously unknown tris(m-tolyl)antimony dicarboxylates were obtained: m-Tol3Sb[OC(O)C6HF4]2 (1) with a yield of 80 % and m Tol3Sb[OC(O)C6F5]2 (2) with a yield of 85 %, from tris(m-tolyl)antimony with 2,3,4,5-tetrafluorobenzoic and pentafluorobenzoic acids in the presence of tert-butyl hydroperoxide (1:2:1 mol.). The structure of compounds 1 and 2 was established by the X-ray method per-formed on a Bruker D8 QUEST diffractometer. Crystallographic parameters of the unit cell of compound 1: the crystal size is 0.65 × 0.22 × 0.11 mm, a = 12.787(14), b = 12.957(19), c = 13.726(16) Å, α = 64.27(6)°, β = 88.18(4)°, γ = 69.13(6)°, V = 1894 (4) Å3, ρcalc = 1.507 g/cm3, Z = 2, space group P-1. In the crystal cell of dicarboxylate 1, there is a molecule of the solvent used for recrystallization (benzene). Parameters of the crystal of compound 2: the crystal size is 0.46 × 0.39 × 0.3 mm, a = 13.68(5), b = 14.03(3), c = 17.95 (4) Å, α = 104.75 (8)°, β = 98.65 (11)°, γ = 102.66 (13)°, V = 3172 (15) Å3, ρcalc = 1.712 g / cm3, Z = 2, space group P-1. The crystal cell of compound 2 contains two crystallographically independent molecules. The antimony atoms in compounds 1, 2 have a distorted trigonal-bipyramidal coordination with carboxylate ligands in axial positions. In crystal 1 the carboxylate ligands are in the cis-position, whereas in crystal 2 they are in the trans-position. In the IR spectra of compounds 1, 2 the bands at 1653, 1637 cm –1 (1) and 1699, 1681 cm–1 (2) can be attributed to valence vibrations of the C=O-groups. The intense bands in the region of 1400-1100 cm–1 in the IR spectra of dicarboxylates 1, 2 can be attributed to the valence vibrations of C-F: 1483, 1369 cm–1 for compound 1 and 1334, 1246 cm–1 for compound 2.
The Structure Study of Tris(4-fluoro¬phenyl)antimony Dicarboxylates (4-FC6H4)3Sb[OC(O)R]2 (R = C6H3F2-2,3, C6H3(NO2)2-3,5, C6H4OMe-2, CF2Br, CH=CHPh, CH3, C≡CH)
Authors:   South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, Russian Federation, Belov V.
Published: December 2023

The interaction of tris(4-fluorophenyl)antimony with 2,3-difluorobenzoic acid, as well as with 3,5-dinitrobenzoic, 2-methoxybenzoic, bromodifluoroacetic, cinnamic, formic, and propionic acids in the presence of tert-butyl hydroperoxide (1:2:1 mol.) in ether at ambient temperature has given tris(4-fluorophenyl)antimony dicarboxylates (4-FC6H4)3Sb[OC(O)R]2, where R = C6H3F2-2,3 (1), C6H3(NO2)2-3,5 (2), C6H4OMe-2 (3), CF2Br (4), CH=CHPh (5), CH3 (6), и C≡CH (7). The IR spectra of compounds 17, recorded on a Shimadzu IRAffinity-1S Fourier transform IR spectrometer, in a KBr pellet within the 4000–400 cm–1 interval, contain absorption bands of carbonyl groups, which are shifted to the low-frequency vibration region in comparison with the IR spectra of the initial acids. According to the X-ray diffraction data obtained on a Bruker D8 QUEST diffractometer, compound 1 has the following crystallographic parameters of the unit cell: space group P-1, a = 9.034(4), b = 11.351(8), c = 14.814(9) Å, α = 70.11(3)°, β = 88.60(2)°, γ = 87.03(2)°, V = 1426(15) Å3, ρcalc = 1.679 g/cm3, Z = 2. The antimony atom in 1 has a distorted trigonal-bipyramidal coordination with carboxylate ligands in axial positions. The OSbO axial angle is 176.95 (6)°. The lengths of the Sb−O and Sb−C bonds are equal to 2.135(2), 2.121(2) and 2.113(3)–2.116 (3) Å. The Sb•••O=C distances are 3.040(2), 2.861 (3) Å, that is, less than the sum of the van der Waals radii of antimony and oxygen (3.70 Å). The antimony atom departs from the equatorial plane [C3] by 0.038 Å. Complete tables of atom coordinates, bond lengths and valence angles are deposited at the Cambridge Crystallographic Data Center (№ 2051716; deposit@ccdc.cam.ac.uk or http://www.ccdc.cam.ac.uk/data_request/cif).
Characterization and antioxidant potential of white mustard (Brassica hirta) leaf extract and stabilization of sunflower oil
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Nawaz Maria , Qadir Rahman , Hussain Shabbir , Roheen Taleeha , Afzal Muhammad , Perviaz Muhammad , Ali Akbar , Aziz Tariq , Alharbi Metab , Albekairi Thamer H. , Alasmari Abdullah F.
Published: December 2023

The current study aimed to analyze the stabilization of sunflower oil using white mustard (Brassica hirta) leaf extracts as well as their antioxidant potential and cytotoxicity. Selected plant leaves were macerated in different solvents such as n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and methanol. The total flavonoid contents, total phenolic contents, the antioxidant activity by DPPH assay, and the inhibition of linoleic acid oxidation were also examined. Moreover, the stabilization of sunflower oil was evaluated by calculating the conjugated dienes, conjugated trienes, peroxide value, p-ansidine, and free fatty acid values. The cytotoxicity study in terms of the hemolytic activity of B. hirta leaf extract was evaluated and the maximum percentage of lysis was found to be safe (less than 5%). The results of the present study revealed that among others, methanolic white mustard (B. hirta) leaf extract possessed higher antioxidant potential and might be safely employed for the stabilization of vegetable oils.
Partnerships with Public Institutions: Reflecting on Applied History and Social Justice Principles
Authors: Wynant Julie
Published: December 2023

This article emphasizes that social justice – as both a process and a goal – should be put forward as guiding principle for applied historians who want to engage in partnerships with public institutions. While ethical issues are intrinsically intertwined with addressing contemporary problems and facilitating social change, I argue that reflective and reflexive questioning before, during and after a partnership with institutions in power can bring ethical responsibility to the applied history field. The principles of reflection and reflexivity align with social justice by creating greater transparency in both the actions of applied historians, as well as in the actions of the advised institutions.
Interpreting Warn-on-Forecast System Guidance, Part I: Review of Probabilistic Guidance Concepts, Product Design, and Best Practices
Authors: Skinner Patrick S. , Wilson Katie A. , Matilla Brian C. , Roberts Brett , Yussouf Nusrat , Burke Patrick , HeinseIman Pamela L. , Gallo Burkely T. , Jones Thomas A. , Knopfmeier Kent H. , Flora Montgomery L. , Martin Joshua , Guerra Jorge E. , Lindley T. Todd , Gravelle Chad , Bieda III Stephen W.
Published: December 2023

The Warn-on-Forecast System (WoFS) is a convection-allowing ensemble prediction system designed to primarily provide guidance on thunderstorm hazards from the meso-beta to storm-scale in space and from several hours to less than one hour in time. This article describes unique aspects of WoFS guidance product design and application to short-term severe weather forecasting. General probabilistic forecasting concepts for convection allowing ensembles, including the use of neighborhood, probability of exceedance, percentile, and paintball products, are reviewed, and the design of real-time WoFS guidance products is described. Recommendations for effectively using WoFS guidance for severe weather prediction include evaluation of the quality of WoFS storm-scale analyses, interrogating multiple probabilistic guidance products to efficiently span the envelope of guidance provided by ensemble members, and application of conceptual models of convective storm dynamics and interaction with the broader mesoscale environment. Part II of this study provides specific examples where WoFS guidance can provide useful or potentially misleading guidance on convective storm likelihood and evolution.
A Dual Effect of Dopamine on Hippocampal LTP and Cognitive Functions in Control and Kindled Mice
Authors: Ahmadi Mahboubeh , Rouhi Nahid , Fathollahi Yaghoub , Shojaei Amir , Rezaei Mahmoud , Rostami Sareh , Saab Bechara J. , Mirnajafi-Zadeh Javad
Published: December 2023

The impact of dopamine on synaptic plasticity and cognitive function following seizure is not well understood. Here, using optogenetics in the freely behaving animal, we examined exploratory behavior and short-term memory in control and kindled male mice during tonic stimulation of dopaminergic neurons within the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Furthermore, using field potential recording, we compared the effect of dopamine on synaptic plasticity in stratum radiatum and stratum oriens layers of both ventral and dorsal hippocampal CA1 regions, and again in both control and kindled male mice. Our results demonstrate that tonic stimulation of VTA dopaminergic neurons enhances novelty-driven exploration and short-term spatial memory in kindled mice, essentially rescuing the seizure-induced cognitive impairment. In addition, we found that dopamine has a dual effect on LTP in control versus kindled mice, such that application of dopamine prevented LTP induction in slices from control mice, but rescued LTP in slices taken from the kindled animal. Taken together, our results highlight the potential for dopaminergic modulation in improving synaptic plasticity and cognitive function following seizure.
Human gut microbiota and endocrinology: paradigm shift from genome to its regulation
Authors: Lamaudière Matthew T F , Turner Mark C , Arasaradnam Ramesh P , Morozov Igor Y
Published: December 2023

Over the last two decades, it has become clear that the human gut microbiota, a complex community of bacteria, archaea, fungi and viruses, are a critical determinant of human health and disease. Microbiota-derived metabolites provide the host with energy, protect against pathogens, modulate immune and endocrine systems as well as the level of reactive oxygen species in the gut. It has come with no surprise that the human gut microbiota is also linked to the production, utilisation and regulation of host hormones. This implies that the gut microbiota is capable of influencing human behaviour, appetite regulation and metabolism as well as development and immunity. Many of the advances in the field of crosstalk between the gut microbiota and host health, disease and behaviours are generally based on DNA analyses of microbial populations and transplantation of monocultured commensal species to germ-free animals. Recent reports on the activity of the gut microbiota in gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer have highlighted two important points. First, microbial DNA-based abundance does not always correlate with their level of activity and secondly, that metabolism of the complex gut microbiota is regulated by host health status, including the production and metabolism of several human hormones. In this review, we will discuss the lessons learnt from studying the activity and metabolism of the human gut microbiota in health and across gastrointestinal diseases, and how these findings can shape future research on the microbiome–gut–endocrine axis.
Oocyte activation is a cytoplasm-confined event so far: what about the nucleus?
Authors: Gioia Luisa , Palazzese Luca , Czernik Marta , Iuso Domenico , Fulka Helena , Fulka Jr Josef , Loi Pasqualino
Published: December 2023

The fertilizing spermatozoa induce a Ca2+ oscillatory pattern, the universal hallmark of oocyte activation, in all sexually reproducing animals. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) bypass the physiological pathway; however, while a normal Ca2+ release pattern occurs in some species, particularly humans, artificial activation is compulsory for ICSI-fertilized oocytes to develop in most farm animals. Unlike the normal oscillatory pattern, most artificial activation protocols induce a single Ca2+ spike, undermining proper ICSI-derived embryo development in these species. Curiously, diploid parthenogenetic embryos activated by the same treatments develop normally at high frequencies and implant upon transfer in the uterus. We hypothesized that, at least in ruminant embryos, the oscillatory calcium waves late in the first cell cycle target preferentially the paternal pronucleus and are fundamentally important for paternal nuclear remodeling. We believe that Ca2+ signaling is central to full totipotency deployment of the paternal genome. Research in this area could highlight the asymmetry between the parental genome reprogramming timing/mechanisms in early development and impact ARTs like ICSI and cloning.
Generation of porcine endometrial organoids and their use as a model for enhancing embryonic attachment and elongation
Authors: Saadeldin Islam M , Han Ayeong , Bang Seonggyu , Kang Heejae , Kim Heyyoung , Abady Mariam M , Jeong Ji-Seon , Kwon Ha-Jeong , Lee Sanghoon , Cho Jongki
Published: December 2023

In brief

Porcine endometrial organoids (EOs) were isolated and characterized, revealing distinctive features such as unique extracellular matrix formation, fusion into uterine bud-like structures, and facilitation of embryo elongation. The yield of EOs was significantly enhanced by cryopreservation medium supplemented with the rock inhibitor (Y-27632), resulting in reduced expression of apoptotic mRNAs and microRNAs.

Endometrial organoids (EOs) are acceptable models for understanding maternal–embryonic cross talk. This study was conducted to generate EOs and optimize their cryopreservation and provide coculture modeling with embryos. The endometrial tissues were used for culturing the organoids inside domes of Matrigel®. To improve the long-term storage of EOs, 10 µM ROCK inhibitor (RI) was added to the cryopreservation medium. Day 7 parthenogenetically activated embryos were cocultured with EOs or EO outgrowths, and embryonic cell numbers and embryo attachment were monitored. Spherical EOs 100–300 µm in size can be retrieved on day 7 of culture, and larger EOs, approximately 1.5 mm in diameter, can be maintained in the Matrigel® dome for 21 days. The nuclear expression of Ki67 indicates that more than 80% of EOs nuclei were proliferative. EOs exhibit unique novel characters such as formation of extracellular matrix and ability for fusion. RI increased the yield and quality of organoids after freezing or thawing. The cell number of cocultured embryos increased five-fold, and the proportion of trophoblast outgrowths increased seven-fold compared with those of control embryos. The embryos cultured with EO-conditioned medium showed a better attachment rate than the other models, and – for the first time – we report embryonic elongation. Immunofluorescence staining of the attached embryos showed CDX2 in the periphery of EOs outgrowths. The 3D assembly and cryopreservation of EOs was optimized, and EO coculture supported embryo attachment, trophoblast outgrowth, and elongation, which would provide a valuable tool for studying the intricate processes involved in porcine embryo implantation.
Die Gemeinschaftsdiagnose
Authors: Holtemöller Oliver
Published: December 2023

In diesem Beitrag wird die Gemeinschaftsdiagnose (GD) der führenden deutschen Wirtschaftsforschungsinstitute vorgestellt. Die GD stellt eine Referenz für die den Steuerschätzungen zugrundeliegenden makroökonomischen Projektionen der Bundesregierung dar, und sie informiert wirtschaftspolitische Entscheidungsträger, Medien und die breite Öffentlichkeit über wichtige ökonomische Entwicklungen. Die Gutachten erscheinen jeweils im Frühjahr und im Herbst.
Specification language quality evaluation procedure
Authors: Gasperovič Jelena
Published: December 2023

The paper describes quality evaluation procedure and gives example of its application. The purpose of the paper is to propose a way to determine specification language appropriateness for concrete project.
Problems in aspect oriented design (AOD)
Authors: Ošmianskij Vladislav , Čaplinskas Albertas
Published: December 2023

The paper aims to evaluate the state of the art of AOD. It discusses main approaches to aspect modelling with UML, investigates the impact of aspects on 00 design methods and identifies open issues of AOD.
Teaching of probability theory and combinatorics at secondary schools
Authors: Stankus Eugenijus
Published: December 2023

The topics of probability theory and combinatorics were brought into curricula of Lithuanian secondary schools ten years ago. The problems of teaching and actual situation of apprehension of concepts of prob­ability theory and combinatorics are analyzed.
Quarter-Century Experience in Cryopreservation of Human Oocytes by Vitrifi cation. What Has Been Achieved and What is Next?
Authors:   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Yurchuk Taisiia ,   Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland, Petrushko Maryna ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv,   DRT clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2023

Cryopreservation of human oocytes by the vitrification has become a part of the daily practice of assisted reproductive technologies to fight an infertility and to preserve the woman's reproductive potential. This literature review covers the results of the studies performed by various scientific schools during 25 years; historical prerequisites for the development of cryopreservation of human oocytes by vitrification; medical and social indices to apply this method, features and complications arising during vitrification of human oocytes. Special attention has been paid to the issues regarding the genetic safety of the method mentioned in respect of the health of future descendants. The paper presents the insight on unsolved tasks in vitrification of oocytes and that of identified ways to overcome the challenges.
Therapeutic Hypothermia and Cell Therapy Change Cognitive Functions of Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors:   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Kudokotseva Olga , Lomakin Ivan ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Babiichuk Vladyslav ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Babiichuk Liudmyla ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Kandybko Igor ,   Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
Published: December 2023

The paper presents the research results of spatial memory and learning processes for the comprehensive analysis of cognitive function of spontaneously hypertensive rats under the influence of independent and combined use of rhythmic craniocerebral hypothermia (RCH) and the introduction of cryopreserved cord blood nucleated cells (cCBNCs). It was shown that SHR rats have a cognitive deficit, which is manifested in reduced speed of the learning process and memory formation in the Morris water maze (MWM). The administration of therapeutic RCH and/or cell therapy (cCBNCs introduction) 30 days before training in the MWM improved the cognitive functions of SHR rats: the target search strategy changed, and the time to search for a platform hidden under water was significantly reduced. These changes indicated the acceleration of the processes of information perception, learning, and the formation of spatial memory. The preservation and reproduction of long-term memory and as a result of the formed strategy of direct finding of the target in the MWM was most influenced by certain therapy with the samples of cryopreserved cord blood in combination with the procedure of therapeutic hypothermia. It was established that this approach exerted a neuroprotective effect, contributing to the partial elimination of cognitive deficits in SHR by improving spatial memory and accelerating learning processes.
The native-borrowed paradigm in the linguistic terminology of Yury Shevelyov
Authors:   West Ukrainian National University, Shkitska Iryna
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to analysing the terminology of the linguistic works of the famous Ukrainian linguist Yury Shevelyov (Sherekh). The author clarifies the ratio of native and borrowed elements in linguistic terms representing different language levels. The article takes into account the authorʼs manner of introducing terms and their borrowed equivalents into scientific texts. The frequency of use of Ukrainian terms and their borrowed counterparts has been determined. The article characterizes and classifies specifically Ukrainian and borrowed terms, considering their belonging to different language levels. The author outlines a number of linguistic terms that differ from their modern equivalents established in linguistics. Within the terms atypical for a contemporary, the author highlights terms to denote concepts of phonetics and characteristics of sounds, graphic and punctuation marks, concepts of syntax and types of sentences, in particular, word structure, groups of words, grammatical categories, ways of word formation, etc. According to the results of the research carried out on the material of Yury Shevelevʼs linguistic papers within terms with borrowed components, the author singles out terms with a component expressed by a noun (дублет, формант, еквівалент, etc.) and an adjective (атрибутивний, дублетний, релевантний / ірелевантний, контамінований, експіраторний, номінативний, пейоративний, препозитивний постпозитивний, релятивний, секундарний, фіктивний, etc.). In general, the terminology of Yury Shevelevʼs linguistic papers testifies to the famous linguistʼs desire to give preference to specifically Ukrainian terminological word forms. The terms of Ukrainian origin in his scientific idiostyle dominate in the designation of phonetic phenomena and sounds, word components, ways of word formation, parts of speech, their groups, cases and meanings, and types of simple and complex sentences. Instead, borrowed models of word formation represent nominations of groups of words according to various features and terms to denote language processes. Yuriy Shevelyov prefers the borrowed terms, denoting artistic tropes, stylistic figures and techniques. The author concludes that the largest number of terms atypical for modern linguistics are terms used to denote the concepts of phonetics, grammar, graphic and punctuation marks. Keywords: linguistic term, scientific idiostyle, specific / borrowed word, synonymous term, foreign equivalent of the term.
Narrative contexts and semantics of discursive words (as evidenced by the lexeme zreshtoiu)
Authors:   Ivan Franko Lviv National University, Batsevych Florii
Published: December 2023

The article proves that the lexeme zreshtoiu as a discursive word models the integrity of a narrative, joining the comprehension of the fragments of the previously described (retrospective) and current information. The material of the research is V. Shevchuk’s prose. As an element of retrospection, the lexeme refers to different types of narrative contexts: the primary one in Abstract and Orientation that depend upon the author’s intention; the current one in Estimation and Complication that depend upon the semantics of sentences; the final one in Solution and Coda that often reflects the author’s narrative aim; all the present narrative information – that is it can model all the structural elements of the narrative. The semantic content of the lexeme zreshtoiu is highly influenced by the context, synthesizing the cognitive features of conclusiveness or even exhaustion of the information given in the narrative, doubts in it, supposition and possibility of a new understanding and acceptance or rejection of this understanding. In some contexts, the analyzed discursive word molds a specific speech synonymy or sometimes antonymy with a set of discursive words and discursive phrases, the most frequent of which are vidtak, vtim (utim), nareshti, odnak, otozh, prote, hoch (2) (hocha). In general, the lexeme zreshtoiu appears to be the bearer of the communicative senses of ‘cognitive transmission’ in the process of modelling the content side of the narrative, the means of cohesion and coherence of various contexts of the story manifestation. Keywords: narrative, discursive word, discursive phrase, context, communicative sense, speech synonymy, speech antonymy.
Language biography of a teacher in the study of the dynamics of the language situation in school education in Ukraine
Authors:   Institute of the Ukrainian Language of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Danylevska Oksana
Published: December 2023

The article outlines trends that indicate the dynamics of the language situation in Ukraine in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and their manifestation in school education. It is noted that the most significant impact on the field of school education is exerted by the following dynamic processes in language interaction: Communicative strengthening of the Ukrainian language in unofficial and semi-official domains, a widespread transition to Ukrainian in daily communication, and civil society’s involvement in language usage regulatory measures. Changes in the status of languages, the factual transformation of the Ukrainian language into a language of interethnic communication in Ukraine, the decline in the prestige of the Russian language, a reassessment of the roles of languages in the educational ideals of Ukrainians who no longer want their children to learn the Russian language, strengthening of civic initiatives aimed at creating a Ukrainian-language educational environment. Involvement of civil society in choosing language policy instruments in the field of education. Expansion of active language interaction in new linguogeographic areas. The effectiveness of the method of language biographies is substantiated by investigating socially determined relationships between components of the language situation in the educational sector of a linguistically heterogeneous post-totalitarian society. The language biographies of teachers are analyzed in the context of post-colonial deformations of the language situation in school education, which represents an attempt to apply this research method within the macrosociolinguistic paradigm. The conclusion is drawn regarding the prospects of studying the state and conditions of language functioning in the field of education based on language biographies, to develop effective mechanisms for strengthening the communicative position of the state Ukrainian language in the sphere of school education and providing recommendations for enhancing the language competence of educational professionals as a fundamental condition for the sustainable development of the education system in Ukraine. Keywords: language biography, language situation, language policy, language personality, language behavior.
Maternal Pre-Pregnancy BMI, Breastfeeding, and Child BMI
Authors: Shipp Gayle M. , Wosu Adaeze C. , Knapp Emily A. , Sauder Katherine A. , Dabelea Dana , Perng Wei , Zhu Yeyi , Ferrara Assiamira , Dunlop Anne L. , Deoni Sean , Gern James , Porucznik Christy , Aris Izzuddin M. , Karagas Margaret R. , Sathyanarayana Sheela , O’Connor Tom G. , Carroll Kecia N. , Wright Rosalind J. , Hockett Christine W. , Johnson Christine C. , Meeker John D. , Cordero José , Paneth Nigel , Comstock Sarah S. , Kerver Jean M. ,   program collaborators for Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes
Published: December 2023

OBJECTIVES

Breastfeeding practices may protect against offspring obesity, but this relationship is understudied among women with obesity. We describe the associations between breastfeeding practices and child BMI for age z-score (BMIz), stratified by maternal BMI.

METHODS

We analyzed 8134 dyads from 21 cohorts in the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes Program. Dyads with data for maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, infant feeding practices, and ≥1 child BMI assessment between the ages of 2 and 6 years were included. The associations between breastfeeding practices and continuous child BMIz were assessed by using multivariable linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Maternal pre-pregnancy BMI category prevalence was underweight: 2.5%, healthy weight: 45.8%, overweight: 26.0%, and obese: 25.6%. Median child ages at the cessation of any breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding across the 4 BMI categories were 19, 26, 24, and 17 weeks and 12, 20, 17, and 12 weeks, respectively. Results were in the hypothesized directions for BMI categories. Three months of any breastfeeding was associated with a lower BMIz among children whose mothers were a healthy weight (−0.02 [−0.04 to 0.001], P = .06), overweight (−0.04 [−0.07 to −0.004], P = .03), or obese (−0.04 [−0.07 to −0.006], P = .02). Three months of exclusive breastfeeding was associated with a lower BMIz among children whose mothers were a healthy weight (−0.06 [−0.10 to −0.02], P = .002), overweight (−0.05 [−0.10 to 0.005], P = .07), or obese (−0.08 [−0.12 to −0.03], P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Human milk exposure, regardless of maternal BMI category, was associated with a lower child BMIz in the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes cohorts, supporting breastfeeding recommendations as a potential strategy for decreasing the risk of offspring obesity.
‘She called me a name that I didn't like’
Authors: Marko Karoline , Foltz Anouschka , Haslacher Katharina , Hall Gareth
Published: December 2023

In parole hearings, prison inmates are questioned to ascertain whether they can be considered rehabilitated and return to the community or whether they still pose a danger and should remain incarcerated. As such, parole hearings are complex discursive events in which the prisoner must negotiate their identity in conversation with parole officers. The data for this study comprises 17 transcripts of the parole hearings of Winston Moseley, one of the longest-serving inmates in the state of New York. The analysis aims to highlight how Moseley represents his responsibility in the crimes he committed, how he expresses remorse, insight and apologies, and how he portrays his rehabilitated self. The study shows that, even though Moseley's focus is on the change and development of his personality, the linguistic strategies he uses to talk about his responsibility and how he expresses remorse remain obscure.
Effects of the landline telephone filter and linguistic context on speaker-dependent variability in /s/
Authors: Smorenburg Laura , Heeren Willemijn
Published: December 2023

Previous research has demonstrated that vowel formants situated near the lower limit of the bandwidth show effects of the telephone filter (Künzel 2001; Byrne and Foulkes 2004). In this work, the effects of the landline telephone filter are examined for one consonant, namely fricative /s/. Although this speech sound is expected to show large effects of narrowband telephone filters due to its high-frequency spectral characteristics, previous work on Dutch telephone speech showed that, despite its compromised acoustics, /s/ still contains considerable amounts of speaker information (Smorenburg & Heeren, 2021). Using English data that were simultaneously recorded as broadband and telephone speech, this work shows large effects of the telephone filter on both the acoustics and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) speaker classification. Linguistic effects were only observable in studio recordings and generally did not have an effect on the speaker classification with one exception: when the following context is labial, LDA speaker-classification accuracy was higher, indicating idiosyncrasies in anticipatory labial coarticulation.
Deceptive indicators
Authors: Ligovich Michelle , Richards Yasmin , Clarke David , Keatley David
Published: December 2023

Correctly identifying when an individual is lying based on their nonverbal communication has been a central aim of researchers and practitioners. Traditionally, research has focused on individual ‘tells’ or indicators of deception. More recently, researchers have focused on clusters and sequences of nonverbal gestures; however, these methods can lead to complex outputs that are difficult to interpret. The current research uses a newly developed temporal method, Indicator Waves, to analyse the concurrent and sequential nonverbal communication of individuals caught verbally lying on tape. The analyses show the complexity of nonverbal behaviours in simplified wave diagrams and the importance of using linguistics to code nonverbal deceptive behaviours accurately. Statements made by individuals were analysed using Statement Analysis and nonverbal gestures related to lips, head, eyes and upper body were shown to change between deceptive and truthful individuals, both in the lead-up to lying and post-lying. This research is the first to use Indicator Waves in deception detection and provides a new simplified approach for understanding complex patterns of nonverbal communication in lying.
Heat waves in the Colombian Caribbean: A public health problem?
Authors:   Universidad del Magdalena, Santa Marta, Colombia., Pérez-Anaya Oskarly , Wilches-Visbal Jorge Homero ,   Universidad del Magdalena, Santa Marta, Colombia., Álvarez-Miño Lídice ,   Universidad del Magdalena, Santa Marta, Colombia.
Published: December 2023

Una creencia popular plantea que, si se sumerge una rana en un recipiente y esta se pone a calentar gradualmente, intentará adaptarse hasta morir; probablemente cada vez las poblaciones humanas se están enfrentando a esta situación, que como lo mencionan miles de científicos, académicos e investigadores a lo largo del planeta, el calentamiento de este se relaciona directamente con el cambio climático.