bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolite T2 relaxation times decrease across the adult lifespan in a large multi‐site cohort
Authors: Hupfeld Kathleen E. , Murali‐Manohar Saipavitra , Zöllner Helge J. , Song Yulu , Davies‐Jenkins Christopher W. , Gudmundson Aaron T. , Simicic Dunja , Lamesgin Simegn Gizeaddis , Carter Emily E. , Hui Steve C. N. , Yedavalli Vivek , Oeltzschner Georg , Porges Eric C. , Edden Richard A. E.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Relaxation correction is crucial for accurately estimating metabolite concentrations measured using in vivo MRS. However, the majority of MRS quantification routines assume that relaxation values remain constant across the lifespan, despite prior evidence of T2 changes with aging for multiple of the major metabolites. Here, we comprehensively investigate correlations between T2 and age in a large, multi‐site cohort.

Methods

We recruited approximately 10 male and 10 female participants from each decade of life: 18–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, and 60+ y old (n = 101 total). We collected PRESS data at eight TEs (30, 50, 74, 101, 135, 179, 241, and 350 ms) from voxels placed in white‐matter‐rich centrum semiovale (CSO) and gray‐matter‐rich posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). We quantified metabolite amplitudes using Osprey and fit exponential decay curves to estimate T2.

Results

Older age was correlated with shorter T2 for tNAA2.0, tCr3.0, tCr3.9, tCho, and tissue water (CSO and PCC), as well as mI and Glx (PCC only); rs = −0.22 to −0.63, all p < 0.05, false discovery rate (FDR)‐corrected. These associations largely remained statistically significant when controlling for cortical atrophy. By region, T2 values were longer in the CSO for tNAA2.0, tCr3.9, Glx, and tissue water and longer in the PCC for tCho and mI. T2 did not differ by region for tCr3.0.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the importance of considering metabolite T2 differences with aging in MRS quantification. We suggest that future 3T work utilize the equations presented here to estimate age‐specific T2 values instead of relying on uniform default values.
Patient, facility, and environmental factors associated with obesity treatment in US Veterans
Authors: Kamalumpundi Vijayvardhan , Smith Jessica K. , Robinson Kathleen M. , Saad Eddin Assim , Alatoum Aiah , Kasasbeh Ghena , Correia Marcelo L. G. , Vaughan Sarrazin Mary
Published: October 2024

Background

Identifying patient‐, facility‐, and environment‐level factors that influence the initiation and retention of comprehensive lifestyle management interventions (CLMI) for urban and rural Veterans could improve obesity treatment and reach at Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities.

Aims

This study identified factors at these various levels that predicted treatment engagement, retention, and weight management among urban and rural Veterans.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 631,325 Veterans was designed using VA databases to identify Veterans with class II and III obesity during 2015–2017. Primary outcomes were initiation of CLMI, bariatric surgery, or obesity pharmacotherapy within 1 year of index date. Secondary outcomes included treatment retention and successful weight loss. Generalized linear mixed models were used to evaluate the relationships between factors and obesity‐related outcomes, with rurality differences assessed through interaction terms.

Results

Patient characteristics associated with increased odds of initiating CLMI included female sex (p < 0.001), black race (p < 0.001), sleep apnea (p < 0.001), mood disorder (p < 0.001), and use of medications associated with weight loss (p < 0.001) or weight gain (p < 0.001). Facility use of telehealth was associated with greater odds of CLMI initiation in urban Veterans (p < 0.001) but lower retention in both populations (p = 0.003). Routine consideration of pharmacotherapy was associated with higher CLMI initiation. Environmental characteristics associated with increased odds of CLMI initiation included percent of population foreign born (OR = 1.03 per 10% increase; p < 0.001), percent black (p < 0.001), and high walkability index (p < 0.001). The relationship between total population and CLMI initiation differed by rurality, as greater population was associated with lower odds of CLMI initiation in urban areas (OR: 0.99 per 1000 population; p < 0.001), but higher odds in rural areas (OR:1.01, p = 0.01). Veterans in the south were less likely to initiate CLMI and had lower retention (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Treatment and retention of CLMI among Veterans remain low, highlighting areas for improvement to expand its reach both urban and rural Veterans.
Optimizing muscle preservation during weight loss in patients with cirrhosis: A pilot study comparing continuous energy restriction to alternate‐day modified fasting for weight loss in patients with obesity and non‐alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver
Authors: Dunn Winston , Herrmann Stephen D. , Montgomery Robert N. , Hastert Mary , Honas Jeffery J. , Rachman Jessica , Donnelly Joseph E. , Steger Felicia L.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Obesity is associated with increased morbidity in patients with advanced liver disease, but it is particularly challenging for these patients to preserve skeletal muscle mass during weight loss and accelerating sarcopenia is a concern. Alternate‐day modified fasting (ADMF) may be particularly effective for weight loss in patients with concomitant cirrhosis and obesity due to preservation of fat‐free mass (FFM).

Methods

A weight loss program featuring either ADMF or a continuous low‐calorie diet (LCD) was evaluated in a 24‐week randomized clinical trial in 20 adult patients with Child‐Pugh Class A cirrhosis and obesity. Participants were randomized to either ADMF (n = 11) or LCD (n = 9). Both groups received a remotely delivered exercise program. Body composition, sarcopenia measures, and functional outcomes were assessed pre‐post.

Results

Thirteen participants completed the intervention (Age = 57 ± 10; BMI = 37.7 ± 5.8 kg/m2). The median body weight lost in ADMF was 13.7 ± 4.8 kg (13.9% of initial body weight), while LCD lost 9.9 ± 6.9 kg (10.7% of initial body weight). Total body fat percentage decreased in both groups (ADMF: −4.1 ± 4.0%; LCD = −2.8 ± 1.4%). Fat‐free mass accounted for 34 ± 20% of total weight loss in ADMF and 38 ± 10% in LCD. Functional measures, such as timed chair stands, improved in both groups.

Conclusion

This pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of the ADMF and LCD interventions to produce significant weight loss while improving body composition in patients with cirrhosis and obesity. Further research is needed to validate these findings in larger cohorts and to assess changes in muscle quality and visceral fat.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05367596.
Shifting perceptions of green and blue spaces during the COVID‐19 pandemic in gentrifying neighbourhoods: Experiences of inclusion and exclusion by women and non‐binary residents
Authors: Calderón‐Argelich Amalia , Anguelovski Isabelle , Cuenca Valeria‐Carolin , Cole Helen V. S. , Triguero‐Mas Margarita , Valdivia Blanca , Baró Francesc
Published: October 2024

The COVID‐19 outbreak triggered a combined health, social and economic crisis, imposing multiple restrictions that altered the use and perception of public green and blue spaces (PGBS). In this article, we explored how the different stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic restrictions affected the use and perceptions of public greenspaces and seafront in gentrifying neighbourhoods, focusing specifically on women and non‐binary residents.

We conducted a comparative analysis of two densely populated neighbourhoods in Barcelona, Spain, employing a participatory mixed‐methods approach including surveys, focus groups, participatory walks and semi‐structured interviews. We collected the perceptions from women and non‐binary residents for the pre‐pandemic period, the lockdown period and the period during the post‐lockdown gradual ease of restrictions.

Our findings reveal that during the COVID‐19 lockdown, the use of neighbourhood PGBS was maintained or intensified, highlighting the existing deficit in the denser areas of the city. However, post‐lockdown, use patterns changed, with differences based on neighbourhood characteristics and gentrification pressures. This suggests that while COVID‐19 seemed to temporarily impact how people used PGBS, these changes were rapidly reversed once mobility restrictions were lifted. During and after the pandemic, PGBS facilitated informal care networks and community cohesion that helped residents endure the impacts of the pandemic, but the return of gentrification and touristification pressures disrupted these networks, heightening feelings of displacement and exclusion among women and non‐binary residents. The research underscores the dual role of PGBS as both essential community spaces and sites of exclusion, emphasizing the need for inclusive and just green planning strategies.

Policy implications. Urban planning must prioritize the quality and accessibility of PGBS with a gender‐sensitive approach and address broader issues of gentrification and touristification to protect vulnerable populations. An environmentally just greening approach should consider proximity, safety, accessibility and design to facilitate the use of PGBS by socially vulnerable groups.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Straightforward Synthesis of Poly(Vinyl Acetate)‐b‐Polystyrene Copolymers Through Sequential Reversible Addition−Fragmentation Chain‐Transfer (RAFT) Polymerization: A Case Study With a Commercially Available Iniferter Agent
Authors: Lin Chih‐Yin , Liu Ying‐Ling
Published: October 2024

Although reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization has shown great ability for the synthesis of block copolymers through sequential polymerization, some limits have been encountered for the block copolymers from a more activated monomer (MAM) and a less activated monomer (LAM) due to the unsuitability of transfer agents for the both classes of monomers. In this work, an effective case of synthesis of block copolymers of vinyl acetate (VAc, a LAM) and styrene (a MAM) through sequential VAc and styrene RAFT polymerizations within one commercially available RAFT agent (BM1481) has been demonstrated. A PVAc‐b‐PS block copolymer having a molecular weight and a polydispersity index of 15,270 Da and 1.24 has been obtained. Nevertheless, the opposite sequential RAFT polymerizations of styrene and VAc are not effective for the targeting block copolymers. The prepared PVAc‐b‐PS block copolymer has shown amphiphilic characteristics with formation of core‐shell particles in selective solvents and the application of macro‐surfactants for the polymer blends of PS and PVAc. The results associate to attractive advances in both polymer chemistry and polymer materials.
Reparametrizing Joback's Group Additivity Theory – Thermochemical Building Blocks for Targeted Design of New Compounds
Authors: Wahler Sabrina
Published: October 2024

This study aims to investigate if complex machine‐learning models are required to predict certain properties of materials, or if simple linear regression models also give sufficiently accurate predictions of thermochemical properties and density. An in‐depth analysis of Joback's method in combination with statistical models, and the density predictions by Holden, Keshavarz, and Bondarchuk are made. Updated Group increment tables for Joback's method are provided. The ‘Parametrization of Empirical Approximations using Statistical Methods’ (PEAS) is intended to evaluate if it could be better to resort to simpler methods in certain cases. Additionally, a data set analysis tool named “Group Extraction Analysis Tool for Deviations in approximating numerical modeling errors” (Great Dane©) is presented.
Study on the Thermal Safety of 3,7‐Dinitro‐1,3,5,7‐Tetraazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane Synthesized by Nitrolysis of Hexamine
Authors: Wang Zhi , Jin Shaohua , Gu Guanghui , Chao Hui , Qian Shichuan , Xu Yinguang , Wang Fan , Wei Yulin , Zhao Xinping , Lu Zhiyan , Chen Shusen , Chen Kun
Published: October 2024

The thermal flow curves of the nitrolysis for the synthesis of 3,7‐dinitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetraazabicyclo[3.3.1]nonane (DPT) from hexamine in the presence of different amounts of acetic anhydride were obtained using reaction calorimetry. The maximum heat release rates during the feeding process, the corresponding maximum adiabatic temperature rises, and the Maximum Temperature of the Synthesis Reaction (MTSR) were determined, respectively. The thermal stability of the reaction product DPT and the reaction mixture was analyzed, and data on their thermal decomposition characteristics were obtained. The thermal decomposition kinetic model was utilized to simulate the stability under adiabatic conditions. TD24 (The temperature corresponding to the time required to reach the maximum reaction rate under adiabatic conditions for 24 hours) of the reaction mixture was calculated as 69.65°C. According to the thermal hazard parameters of the reaction, the process's hazard level under various acetic anhydride addition conditions was determined to be level 5 using the cooling failure scenario method.
Local biodiversity actions for sustainable development goal 15 (life on land) in China
Authors: Zhou Guangjin , Zhang Riqi , Su Yiming , Lan Yang , Wang Lingqing , Dunn Matilda Eve , Xia Xinming , Liang Tao , Guan Li , Huan Yizhong , Wang Siyu
Published: October 2024

Achieving sustainable development goal (SDG) 15 (life on land) depends on local conservation efforts. However, the lack of species data and inadequate ecological corridor designs significantly hinder conservation efficiency. This study focused on Sanmenxia City in China and utilized the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade‐offs model, the GeoDetector model, and the Minimum Cumulative Resistance model to identify potential habitats, their influencing factors, and ecological corridors. We then adopted a new corridor feasibility model to compare the impacts of different ecological resistance, thereby identifying key biodiversity spaces. Results indicated a decline in habitat quality since 2000, primarily influenced by climate, topography, and land use. Simulation‐derived corridors using the habitat quality method were more effective than those based on expert experience. We identified 2808.45 km2 of potential habitats and 20 critical corridors for land animals. This study deepens the understanding of ecological resistance impacts on corridors and provides new insights into local actions for SDG 15.
X‐Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Analysis of Indium and Indium‐Containing Compounds
Authors: Henderson Jeffrey D. , Pearson Laurel , Nie Heng‐Yong , Biesinger Mark C.
Published: October 2024

X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is widely employed across various research fields due to its surface and chemical sensitivity. However, accurate interpretation poses a challenge due to the lack of comprehensive reference data in the literature, leading to misinterpretation, especially among novice users. Analyzing the chemical state of indium and indium‐containing compounds is particularly challenging due to subtle shifts in the binding energies of the commonly used 3d core line. This paper presents and discusses a collection of reference data, including the In 3d, In 3p, In 4d, In MNN, and relevant counter ion signals. Additionally, it explores other useful information such as the modified Auger parameter and Wagner (or chemical state) plots. The utility of X‐ray–induced Auger electrons is demonstrated in the speciation of mixed systems.
Designing a Highly Crystalline Polymer Donor with Alkylsilyl and Fluorine Substitution to Achieve Efficient Ternary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Xu Zhigang , Du Bo , Zhang Panpan , Wu Shangrong , Bin Haijun , Li Yongfang
Published: October 2024

Adopting a ternary strategy is an effective approach to enhance the power conversion efficiency (PCE) in organic solar cells (OSCs). Previous research on highly efficient ternary systems has predominantly focused on those based on highly crystalline dual small molecule acceptors. However, limited attention has been given to ternary systems utilizing dual polymer donors. Herein, by incorporating the fluorine and alkylsilyl substitution, a new polymer donor named PX1 is developed, which demonstrates strong crystallinity and excellent miscibility with polymer PM6. Moreover, PX1 broadens and enhances the absorption properties of the PM6:L8‐BO blends, and its molecular orbital energy level is situated between those of PM6 and L8‐BO, highlighting its suitability as a third component. Introducing 20% PX1 into the PM6:L8‐BO system resulted in a high PCE of 18.82%. PX1 effectively suppresses charge recombination and reduces energy losses, while also serving as a morphology modulator that enhances the crystallization and improves the molecular packing order of the active layer by shortening the π–π stacking distance and extending crystalline coherence length. These factors collectively contribute to the performance improvements in ternary devices. This study demonstrates that employing a dual polymer donor strategy is a promising approach for achieving high‐performance ternary OSCs.
Bayesian Multilayered Mediation Analysis for Cancer Pharmacogenomics
Authors: Seo Dahun , Baladandayuthapani Veerabhadran , Park Taesung , Ha Min Jin
Published: October 2024

Multiomic data from multilevel biological systems are becoming common and motivate integrative modelling approaches to decipher within‐ and cross‐platform dependencies. Mediation analysis aims to identify mediating mechanisms that regulate the effect of an exposure on an outcome. In multiomic contexts, identification of genomic mediators of disease outcomes provides a deeper understanding of mechanisms of disease and corresponding therapeutic targets. While there has been significant work on joint modelling of high‐dimensional potential mediators, approaches that can identify individual mediators in presence of high‐dimensional potential mediators are lacking. We posit that the multiomic data are interrelated following multilayered Gaussian graphical models that include undirected and directed acyclic graphs as special cases. We develop a Bayesian inferential framework for multilayered mediation analysis with continuous, binary, and ordinal outcomes using probit models. As opposed to existing approaches focusing on identifying joint mediation effects, we decompose the joint effect into effects attributable to individual mediators in the framework of interventional mediation analysis. Simulations demonstrate our method outperforms other existing approaches to identify mediators that have nonzero indirect effects to the outcome. We apply our method to multiomic analysis on drug sensitivity outcomes of palbociclib and agents for endocrine therapy, standard care for breast cancer.
Theoretical and finite element analysis of concrete filled steel tube columns‐steel reinforced ECC ring beam connections
Authors: Dong Bingqing , Zhang Shuo , Yan Kai , Pan Jinlong , Wang Shangyu
Published: October 2024

To improve the bearing capacity and optimize the allocation of ring beam connection, a new type of steel reinforced engineered cementitious composite (ECC) ring beam connection linking the reinforced concrete (RC) beam and the concrete‐filled steel tube (CFST) column was presented. The superior tensile property of ECC can significantly solve the cracking problem that weakens the bearing capacity of the ring beam. In this paper, the failure mechanisms, contact press analysis and strain distribution of steel reinforcement for reinforced engineered cementitious composite (RECC) ring beam joints were analyzed by finite element analysis. Moreover, based on the ultimate equilibrium method, a comprehensive study was conducted on the stress transfer mechanism for the RECC ring beam joint. The bearing capacity model and simplified computational method for the beam‐to‐CFST column with RECC ring beam were proposed. Finally, the calculation method was demonstrated with experimental results. Comparison results showed good agreement, proving that the proposed bearing capacity calculation model had reliability and theoretical significance.
Uncovering the Embryonic Origins of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Barrett Philip , Louie Ke'ale W. , Dupont Jean‐Baptiste , Mack David L. , Maves Lisa
Published: October 2024

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe degenerative muscle disease caused by mutations in the DMD gene, which encodes dystrophin. Despite its initial description in the late 19th century by French neurologist Guillaume Duchenne de Boulogne, and identification of causal DMD genetic mutations in the 1980s, therapeutics remain challenging. The current standard of care is corticosteroid treatment, which delays the progression of muscle dysfunction but is associated with significant adverse effects. Emerging therapeutic approaches, including AAV‐mediated gene transfer, CRISPR gene editing, and small molecule interventions, are under development but face considerable obstacles. Although DMD is viewed as a progressive muscle disease, muscle damage and abnormal molecular signatures are already evident during fetal myogenesis. This early onset of pathology suggests that the limited success of current therapies may partly be due to their administration after aberrant embryonic myogenesis has occurred in the absence of dystrophin. Consequently, identifying optimal therapeutic strategies and intervention windows for DMD may depend on a better understanding of the earliest DMD disease mechanisms. As newer techniques are applied, the field is gaining increasingly detailed insights into the early muscle developmental abnormalities in DMD. A comprehensive understanding of the initial events in DMD pathogenesis and progression will facilitate the generation and testing of effective therapeutic interventions.
Tiere haben eine Würde …
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Die schweizerische Bundesverfassung garantiert die Berücksichtigung der Würde der Kreatur. Art. 120 BV, welcher der «Gentechnologie im Ausserhumanbereich» gewidmet ist, lautet:

1 Der Mensch und seine Umwelt sind vor Missbräuchen der Gentechnologie geschützt.

2 Der Bund erlässt Vorschriften über den Umgang mit Keim- und Erbgut von Tieren, Pflanzen und anderen Organismen. Er trägt dabei der Würde der Kreatur sowie der Sicherheit von Mensch, Tier und Umwelt Rechnung und schützt die genetische Vielfalt der Tier- und Pflanzenarten.
Das Reich der Zwecke nimmt neue Bewohner auf: Die Ausweitung der Rechtsträgerschaft auf Tiere
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Aus den vorangehenden Gedanken ergibt sich, dass Rechte nicht direkt an das Haben bzw. an das «Sein» eines Körpers anknüpfen, sondern an die Person. Der menschliche Körper ist also deshalb rechtlich privilegiert, weil er mit einer Person verbunden ist, zu einer Person gehört. Allerdings fallen die Begriffe (natürliche) Person und Mensch im geltenden Recht zusammen: Weder setzt das Recht für den Status als Person besondere menschliche Fähigkeiten noch eine bestimmte (menschliche) Erscheinung voraus. Der Mensch ist also Person und damit Rechtsträger, weil er Mensch ist – und der Körper des Menschen fällt unter das Personenrecht und nicht unter das Sachenrecht, weil es ein menschlicher Körper ist.
Sollen und können Tiere Rechtsträger sein?
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Die Frage, ob Tiere Rechtssubjekte sein sollen, ob ihnen mithin Rechtspersönlichkeit bzw. der Status als Rechtsperson zuerkannt werden soll, ist eine normative und damit letztlich rechtsethische Frage. Eine blosse rechtsphilosophische bzw. -theoretische Analyse des Begriffs der Rechtsperson vermag diese Frage jedenfalls nicht zu beantworten. Sie läuft schon deswegen ins Leere, weil sich der Begriff der Rechtsperson mittlerweile von seinem philosophischen Bezugsrahmen gelöst hat. Dies hat sich bereits bei der Auseinandersetzung mit der Ausdehnung des Rechtediskurses im Zuge der menschenrechtlichen Diskussion gezeigt.
Integritätsrechte als subjektive Rechte: Zwischen Willensfreiheit und Interessen
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Über die Frage, was subjektive bzw. individuelle Rechte schützen, besteht ebenso wenig Einigkeit wie über die Frage, wie sie theoretisch zu fassen sind. Bis heute prägen jedoch die Willenstheorie und die Interessentheorie sowie auf diesen Theorien basierende Kombinationsvorschläge die Diskussion um das Wesen des subjektiven Rechts. Dabei handelt es sich um ursprünglich aus der Mitte des 19. Jahrhunderts stammende Modellvorstellungen dafür, worin der Zweck individueller Rechte liegt. Die Diskussion hat sich mittlerweile vielfach und auch international beinahe unüberblickbar aufgefächert. Sie kann und soll hier nicht in ihrer rechtsphilosophischen und rechtsdogmatischen Breite und Tiefe wiedergegeben werden.
Tiere und Menschen: Die Diskussion um die anthropologische Differenz
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Aufschlussreich ist zunächst einmal die Bezeichnung für «die Tiere»: In der Antike, insbesondere von Platon, Aristoteles und ihren Zeitgenossen, wurden Tiere und Menschen in der Regel noch mit dem gleichen Begriff als «die Lebewesen» bezeichnet und damit die Gemeinsamkeiten betont. Waren explizit nur die Tiere gemeint, dann hiessen sie «die anderen Lebewesen». Im Hellenismus und der römischen Kaiserzeit trat der Unterschied zwischen Menschen und Tieren deutlich stärker in den Vordergrund: Parallel zur herausragenden Stellung, welche die Vernunft mittlerweile in der Philosophie einnahm, wurden Tiere als die «Lebewesen ohne Logos» bezeichnet, als die Vernunftlosen und Sprachlosen. Sie wurden mithin fortan über eine als Defizit wahrgenommene, als zentral postulierte Eigenschaft definiert.
Herausbildung eines tierethischen Konsenses im 19. Jahrhundert und die Frage seiner Verrechtlichung
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Die Aufarbeitung der Diskussion um die anthropologische Differenz hat die folgenden Punkte deutlich gemacht: Erstens haben die grundlegenden Fragen die Zeiten und Debatten überdauert. Sie sind im Kern dieselben geblieben wie damals: Die Frage, ob sich Menschen von Tieren in einer normativ relevanten Weise unterscheiden, d. h., ob es eine anthropologische Differenz mit normativer Bedeutung überhaupt gibt und was sie für den moralischen Status von Tieren bedeutet. Dabei ist die Problematik virulent, wie Interessenkollisionen zwischen Menschen und Tieren zu lösen sind. Sie kann nur beantwortet werden, wenn vorgängig geklärt wird, welche Interessen als legitim und berechtigt qualifiziert werden und deshalb überhaupt zur Abwägung gebracht werden dürfen, d. h., wann von einem realen Interessenkonflikt ausgegangen werden darf.
Tiere in der Rechtsgeschichte
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Im ältesten bekannten Gesetzeswerk, dem auf den babylonischen König Hammurabi (1728–1686 v.Chr.) zurückgehenden sog. Codex Hammurabi, findet sich bereits ein strafbewehrtes Verbot der Überforderung von arbeitenden Tieren. Die Motivation für diese Regelungen dürfte weniger in der Idee des Tierschutzes als im Bestreben zu suchen sein, die tierliche Arbeitskraft in einer stark von der landwirtschaftlichen Nutzung abhängigen Kultur zu erhalten.
Gehören Tiere zur Rechtsgemeinschaft?
Authors: Michel Margot
Published: October 2024

Aus der Perspektive vernunftrechtlicher Rechtstheorien ist der Versuch, Tiere über spezielle Tierschutzgesetze zu schützen, in zweierlei Hinsicht problematisch: Zum einen soll eine rechtliche Regelung für einen Bereich geschaffen werden, der vernunftrechtlich zur Sphäre der Moral bzw. Gesinnung gerechnet wird und deshalb – als Folge der Trennung von Recht und Moral – als nicht verrechtlichbar gilt. Zum anderen beschränken Tierschutzgesetze die Macht des Eigentümers im Interesse eines Rechtsobjekts, eines Tieres. In einem liberalen Staatsverständnis, welches das Recht als Freiheitsordnung versteht und ihm die primäre Aufgabe zuweist, die Freiheit von Rechtssubjekten (d. h. Menschen) so weit wie möglich zu schützen, ist dies eine grosse Herausforderung.
Two-loop five-point two-mass planar integrals and double Lagrangian insertions in a Wilson loop
Authors: Abreu Samuel , Chicherin Dmitry , Sotnikov Vasily , Zoia Simone
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We consider the complete set of planar two-loop five-point Feynman integrals with two off-shell external legs. These integrals are relevant, for instance, for the calculation of the second-order QCD corrections to the production of two heavy vector bosons in association with a jet or a photon at a hadron collider. We construct pure bases for these integrals and reconstruct their analytic differential equations in canonical form through numerical sampling over finite fields. The newly identified symbol alphabet, one of the most complex to date, provides valuable data for bootstrap methods. We then apply our results to initiate the study of double Lagrangian insertions in a four-cusp Wilson loop in planar maximally supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory, computing it through two loops. We observe that it is finite, conformally invariant in four dimensions, and of uniform transcendentality. Furthermore, we provide numerical evidence for its positivity within the amplituhedron region through two loops.
Leveraging the potential of 1.0-mm i.d. columns in UHPLC-HRMS-based untargeted metabolomics
Authors: La Gioia Danila , Salviati Emanuela , Basilicata Manuela Giovanna , Felici Claudia , Botrugno Oronza A. , Tonon Giovanni , Sommella Eduardo , Campiglia Pietro
Published: October 2024

Untargeted metabolomics UHPLC-HRMS workflows typically employ narrowbore 2.1-mm inner diameter (i.d.) columns. However, the wide concentration range of the metabolome and the need to often analyze small sample amounts poses challenges to these approaches. Reducing the column diameter could be a potential solution. Herein, we evaluated the performance of a microbore 1.0-mm i.d. setup compared to the 2.1-mm i.d. benchmark for untargeted metabolomics. The 1.0-mm i.d. setup was implemented on a micro-UHPLC system, while the 2.1-mm i.d. on a standard UHPLC, both coupled to quadrupole-orbitrap HRMS. On polar standard metabolites, a sensitivity gain with an average 3.8-fold increase over the 2.1-mm i.d., along with lower LOD (LODavg 1.48 ng/mL vs. 6.18 ng/mL) and LOQ (LOQavg 4.94 ng/mL vs. 20.60 ng/mL), was observed. The microbore method detected and quantified all metabolites at LLOQ with respect to 2.1, also demonstrating good repeatability with lower CV% for retention times (0.29% vs. 0.63%) and peak areas (4.65% vs. 7.27%). The analysis of various samples, in both RP and HILIC modes, including different plasma volumes, dried blood spots (DBS), and colorectal cancer (CRC) patient-derived organoids (PDOs), in full scan-data dependent mode (FS-DDA) reported a significant increase in MS1 and MS2 features, as well as MS/MS spectral matches by 38.95%, 39.26%, and 18.23%, respectively. These findings demonstrate that 1.0-mm i.d. columns in UHPLC-HRMS could be a potential strategy to enhance coverage for low-amount samples while maintaining the same analytical throughput and robustness of 2.1-mm i.d. formats, with reduced solvent consumption.
Long-term surveys of ungulates’ effects on tree and shrub species in mountainous forests –outcomes and potential limits
Authors: Nopp-Mayr U. , Lechner W. , Reimoser S. , Reimoser F.
Published: October 2024

Ungulate herbivory might induce different effects on the diversity and growth of trees and shrubs. The density, distribution, and the species of ungulates as well as plant communities’ composition and other factors determine whether ungulate herbivory promotes or limits plants’ diversity and growth. The impacts of ungulates on woody plants are commonly surveyed with exclosure-control approaches. In practice, such surveys frequently only cover short periods of time, addressing immediate management needs. Long-term surveys, documenting lasting effects of ungulate herbivory, are highly needed, but still rare. However, the general transferability of outcomes of long-term surveys might be limited due to different disturbing factors. This study addresses two basic aspects of long-term monitoring in mountainous forests, based on a unique 30-year data set: (1) Possible long-term effects of herbivores on forest vegetation (e.g., species/structural diversity of woody plants) and (2) potential differences between short-term and long-term surveys in terms of height growth patterns. In our study, diversity of woody plant species showed great variability with no significant impact of ungulate herbivory. The presence of ungulates had a significantly negative effect on the vertical structural diversity and growth of trees. Due to the slower growth on control plots, it took trees longer to reach a 160 cm height-threshold with their terminal shoots than on exclosure plots. Our long-term control-exclosure data set indicated that long-term survey data indeed might differ from growth patterns represented by short-term surveys. This can be induced by several factors, like site-specific growth patterns of trees, occurrences of natural abiotic disturbances that influence the functional life of exclosures, and others.
Influence of γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Application on Aromatic Rice Under Shading and Drought Stress Conditions: Effects on Crop Yield, Grain Quality, and 2-Acetyl-1-Pyrroline Biosynthesis
Authors: Chakraborty Rajesh , Roy Tuhin Suvra , Sakagami Jun-Ichi
Published: October 2024

Enhancing aroma retention is pivotal for the production and exportation of aromatic rice in Bangladesh. In this study, a 2-year pot experiment was conducted to assess the effects of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) application on aromatic rice under shading and drought stress conditions. The rice variety, BRRI (Bangladesh Rice Research Institute) dhan80 was used as the planting material to investigate with the following eight treatments: (T1) no GABA, shading, or drought stress treatment; (T2) GABA application at 250 mg/L during panicle initiation; (T3) shading at the grain filling stage; (T4) drought stress at the grain filling stage; (T5) shading and drought stress at the grain filling stage; (T6) GABA application at 250 mg/L at panicle initiation and shading at the grain filling stage; (T7) GABA application at 250 mg/L at panicle initiation and drought stress at the grain filling stage; and (T8) GABA application at 250 mg/L at panicle initiation as well as shading and drought stress at the grain filling stage. A randomized complete block design was followed, with treatments replicated five times. Results revealed GABA application along with shading and drought stress significantly influenced most studied traits. Notably, 250 mg/L GABA application at panicle initiation, alongside shading and drought stress at the grain filling stage, resulted in favorable outcomes for the brown rice yield, head rice recovery, amylose and protein content, grain 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline content, grain aroma, and taste of BRRI dhan80 rice compared with the control group (T1). However, the control treatment exhibited the highest grain yield compared with the other treatments. Overall, GABA application combined with shading and drought stress markedly improved grain quality and aroma of BRRI dhan80 but affected grain yield in an inverse manner.
The Political Economy of Technocratic Governments
Authors: Merzoni Guido , Trombetta Federico
Published: October 2024

This paper proposes a game theoretical model of technocratic government, i.e. cases where a non political technocrat is put in charge by political parties. We find conditions for the existence of a technocratic government equilibrium, where parties agree to delegate the agenda setting power to technocrats, committed to maximize social welfare. Such an equilibrium exists only if technocrats are more competent than ordinary politicians. Furthermore, we show that unstable parliaments increase the range of parameters where a technocratic government equilibrium exists. Polarization can also increase the likelihood of a technocratic government.
Changes in tissues and organs through PMCTA carrier substances
Authors: Bruch G. M. , Feldmann N. H. C. , Fischer F. T. , Fracasso T. , Grabherr S. , Genet P.
Published: October 2024

To date, lipophilic contrast agents mixed with oil, usually paraffin oil, are the most commonly used contrast agents in post-mortem computed tomography angiography (PMCTA). Iodine-based hydrophilic contrast media in combination with a water-soluble carrier, e.g. polyethylene glycol (PEG), are also common. However, their influence on different tissues and organs is poorly understood. In order to analyse the changes in the cadavers caused by the different carrier substances, we evaluated the effects of PEG 200 and oil on the different tissues and organs. Therefore, during a forensic autopsy, liquid femoral vein blood and samples of different organs and vessels were taken and preserved at room temperature in the two liquids mentioned. The condition of the samples was documented during the autopsy and 24, 48 and 72 h after preservation. Microscopic examination took place after 72 h. After 24 h, the samples placed in PEG 200 already showed a clear solidification of almost all structures. Crumbly blood agglomerates had formed in the previously liquid blood. In contrast, the samples stored in oil showed signs of classic cadaveric decomposition after 24 h, which increased with time. The microscopic and immunohistochemical evaluation of the samples stored in PEG showed a good diagnostic quality. The analysis of tissues stored in oil was much more difficult due to putrefaction. PEG and oil show significantly different effects on human tissues, mainly conservation and dehydration are affected. It is crucial to be aware of these differences in order to choose the most appropriate PMCTA method for each forensic case.
Implanted cortical neuroprosthetics for speech and movement restoration
Authors: Muirhead William R. , Layard Horsfall Hugo , Aicardi Christine , Carolan Jacques , Akram Harith , Vanhoestenberghe Anne , Schaefer Andreas T. , Marcus Hani J.
Published: October 2024

Implanted cortical neuroprosthetics (ICNs) are medical devices developed to replace dysfunctional neural pathways by creating information exchange between the brain and a digital system which can facilitate interaction with the external world. Over the last decade, researchers have explored the application of ICNs for diverse conditions including blindness, aphasia, and paralysis. Both transcranial and endovascular approaches have been used to record neural activity in humans, and in a laboratory setting, high-performance decoding of the signals associated with speech intention has been demonstrated. Particular progress towards a device which can move into clinical practice has been made with ICNs focussed on the restoration of speech and movement. This article provides an overview of contemporary ICNs for speech and movement restoration, their mechanisms of action and the unique ethical challenges raised by the field.
Kidney and vascular involvement in Alagille syndrome
Authors: Ranchin Bruno , Meaux Marie-Noelle , Freppel Malo , Ruiz Mathias , De Mul Aurelie
Published: October 2024

Alagille syndrome (ALGS) is an autosomal dominant, multisystemic disease with a high interindividual variability. The two causative genes JAG1 and NOTCH2 are expressed during kidney development, can be reactivated during adulthood kidney disease, and Notch signalling is essential for vascular morphogenesis and remodelling in mice. Liver disease is the most frequent and severe involvement; neonatal cholestasis occurs in 85% of cases, pruritus in 74%, xanthomas in 24% of cases, and the cumulative incidences of portal hypertension and liver transplantation are 66% and 50% respectively at 18 years of age. Stenosis/hypoplasia of the branch pulmonary arteries is the most frequent vascular abnormality reported in ALGS. Kidney involvement is present in 38% of patients, and can reveal the disease. Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract is reported in 22% of patients, hyperchloremic acidosis in 9%, and glomerulopathy and/or proteinuria in 6%. A decreased glomerular filtration rate is reported in 10% of patients and is more frequent after liver transplantation for ALGS than for biliary atresia. Kidney failure has been frequently reported in childhood and adulthood. Renal artery stenosis and mid aortic syndrome have also frequently been reported, often associated with hypertension and stenosis and/or aneurysm of other large arteries. ALGS patients require kidney assessment at diagnosis, long-term monitoring of kidney function and early detection of vascular complications, notably if they have undergone liver transplantation, to prevent progression of chronic kidney disease and vascular complications, which account for 15% of deaths at a median age of 2.2 years in the most recent series.

Graphical abstract
Sobolev regularity of bivariate isogeometric finite element spaces in case of a geometry map with degenerate corner
Authors: Reif Ulrich
Published: October 2024

We investigate Sobolev regularity of bivariate functions obtained in Isogeometric Analysis when using geometry maps that are degenerate in the sense that the first partial derivatives vanish at isolated points. In particular, we show how the known $$C^1$$

C
1

-conditions for D-patches have to be tightened to guarantee square integrability of second partial derivatives, as required when computing finite element approximations of elliptic fourth order PDEs like the biharmonic equation.
Bio-inspired disease prediction: harnessing the power of electric eel foraging optimization algorithm with machine learning for heart disease prediction
Authors: Narasimhan Geetha , Victor Akila
Published: October 2024

Heart disease is the most significant health problem around the world. Thus, it emphasizes the need for accurate and efficient predictive models for early diagnosis. This study proposes an innovative approach integrating the Electric Eel Foraging Optimization Algorithm (EEFOA) with the Random Forest (RF) algorithm for classifying heart disease prediction. EEFOA draws inspiration from the foraging behaviour of electric eels, a bio-inspired optimization framework capable of effectively exploring complex solutions. The objective is to improve the predictive performance of heart disease diagnosis by integrating optimization and Machine learning methodologies. The experiment uses a heart disease dataset comprising clinical and demographic features of at-risk individuals. Subsequently, EEFOA was applied to optimize the features of the dataset and classification using the RF algorithm, thereby enhancing its predictive performance. The results demonstrate that the Electric Eel Foraging Optimization Algorithm Random Forest (EEFOARF) model outperforms traditional RF and other state-of-the-art classifiers in terms of predictive accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, and Log_Loss, achieving remarkable scores of 96.59%, 95.15%, 98.04%, 98%, and 0.1179, respectively. The proposed methodology has the potential to make a significant contribution, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality rates.
Computing Competitive Equilibrium in Simplex Economies
Authors: Pulgarín Antonio
Published: October 2024

In our previous paper we proved that every affine economy has a competitive equilibrium. We define a simplex economy as an affine economy consisting of a stochastic allocation (defining the initial endowments) and a variation with repetition of the number of commodities taking the number of consumers (representing the preferences). We show that a competitive equilibrium can be intrinsically computed in any minimal simplex economy.
Algebraic hierarchical locally recoverable codes with nested affine subspace recovery
Authors: Haymaker Kathryn , Malmskog Beth , Matthews Gretchen
Published: October 2024

Codes with locality, also known as locally recoverable codes, allow for recovery of erasures using proper subsets of other coordinates. These subsets are typically of small cardinality to promote recovery using limited network traffic and other resources. Hierarchical locally recoverable codes allow for recovery of erasures using sets of other symbols whose sizes increase as needed to allow for recovery of more symbols. In this paper, we describe a hierarchical recovery structure arising from geometry in Reed–Muller codes and codes with availability from fiber products of curves. We demonstrate how the fiber product hierarchical codes can be viewed as punctured subcodes of Reed–Muller codes, uniting the two constructions. This point of view provides natural structures for local recovery with availability at each level in the hierarchy.
Gradient dynamics approach to reactive thin-film hydrodynamics
Authors: Voss Florian , Thiele Uwe
Published: October 2024

Wetting and dewetting dynamics of simple and complex liquids is described by kinetic equations in gradient dynamics form that incorporates the various coupled dissipative processes in a fully thermodynamically consistent manner. After briefly reviewing this, we also review how chemical reactions can be captured by a related gradient dynamics description, assuming detailed balanced mass action type kinetics. Then, we bring both aspects together and discuss mesoscopic reactive thin-film hydrodynamics illustrated by two examples, namely, models for reactive wetting and reactive surfactants. These models can describe the approach to equilibrium but may also be employed to study out-of-equilibrium chemo-mechanical dynamics. In the latter case, one breaks the gradient dynamics form by chemostatting to obtain active systems. In this way, for reactive wetting we recover running drops that are driven by chemically sustained wettability gradients and for drops covered by autocatalytic reactive surfactants we find complex forms of self-propulsion and self-excited oscillations.
A needs-based approach to sustainable energy use: case studies of four remote villages in Indonesia
Authors: Pandyaswargo Andante Hadi , Wibowo Alan Dwi , Sunarti Sastri , Risnawati  , Onoda Hiroshi
Published: October 2024

Decentralized energy infrastructure is the way to close the ‘last mile’ of universal electrification for remote communities. However, solutions such as fossil fuel-based power generators may not be sustainable for this purpose because remote communities have poor transport access, capacity, and economic power. Therefore, this study aims to; (1) Assess the needs and energy-related needs of four villages on Indonesian islands based on the needs and capacity of the people; and (2) Offer appropriate technical solutions based on the identified needs. The four villages have varying environmental settings: agricultural, river, small island, and remote island settings. We analyzed the socioeconomic attributes such as age, education, gender, occupation, years living in the village, household size, income, expenditure, and ownership of energy related items and their correlations with social value satisfaction levels such as intrinsic, social significance, functional, emotional, and indigenous values by means of multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and nonparametric tests. The common needs of the analyzed communities were (1) low-cost transportation, (2) clean energy for lighting and cooking, and (3) better communication and information access. With the limited financial resources for remote area development in developing countries, energy infrastructure development must be appropriate to the needs of communities and sustainable in terms of the capacity of communities.