bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Изменения в рождаемости на фоне пандемии COVID-19: опыт исследования российских регионов
Authors: Казенин Константин Игоревич , Митрофанова Екатерина Сергеевна
Published: May 2023

В статье исследуется влияние пандемии COVID-19 на рождаемость в трех регионах России. Проверяется гипотеза о том, что пандемия способствовала откладыванию деторождений на более позднее время из-за нарастания социально-эконмической неопределенности после 2020 г. Данными для анализа послужили результаты телефонного опроса женщин репродуктивного возраста, проведенного в июне — июле 2022 г. в Республике Дагестан, Кировской и Тверской областях. Выбор регионов был сделан на базе данных о рождаемости в предшествующий пандемии период.
Модель пропорциональных рисков (event history analysis) показала, что в условиях пандемии в изучаемых регионах не происходило уменьшения шансов рождения первых детей, однако наблюдалось статистически значимое уменьшение шансов рождения вторых детей. Этой асимметрии в динамике по очередностям рождений предлагается два объяснения. Одно обусловлено динамикой рождаемости в предшествующие периоды социально-экономических пертурбаций в России, второе — изменениями в системе мер государственной поддержки рождаемости в начале 2020 г.
Благодарность. Анализ опросных данных выполнен Е. С. Митрофановой в рамках НИР госзадания РАНХиГС.
Central Banking in Perilous Times: An Open-Ended Chronicle
Authors: Biondi Yuri
Published: May 2023

Conventional understanding relegates the role of central banking to benchmark interest rate guidance which is supposed to have direct and straightforward impact on real economy. Accordingly, central banks are praised for and supposed to stay independent from treasuries and money markets while indirectly influencing both of them by that guidance. This article provides hints for an alternative explanation by investigating central bank dual connection with treasuries and private finance, especially money markets. It recounts the main financial episodes of the last decades from this institutional monetary economic perspective through a dynamic systems analysis covering money and financial aggregates, pointing to the peculiar ways in which this connection has been organised under the market-based (asset-based) finance regime and its systemic failure since 2007.
Transcending artistic boundaries – pre-war Japanese avant-gardes through the lens of two migrant artists: David Burliuk and Varvara Bubnova
Authors: Isaeva Olga
Published: May 2023

This paper problematizes the role two migrant artists David Davidovich Burliuk and Varvara Dmitrejenva Bubnova played in (re)defining the Japanese pre-war avant-gardes during the Taishō period (1912–1926). Careful consideration is given to the contextually based artistic practice in relation to the specific Japanese history of modernization, the establishment of art institutions, and state-controlled exhibition systems on one hand. On the other hand, however, an argument is made for complicating this context with multipolar and yet entangled avant-gardes composed of many histories that connect and diverge at the same time. The primary focus lies on closely describing and highlighting these profound connections, encounters, and exchanges, regardless their length or intensity. The article aims to trace and discuss the experiences of the two migrant artists who redefined themselves within the local context, based on the choices they made and the barriers they faced.
Revisiting SFA stent technology: an updated overview on mechanical stent performance
Authors: Schmidt Wolfram , Brandt-Wunderlich Christoph , Behrens Peter , Kopetsch Christoph , Schmitz Klaus-Peter , Andresen Julian Ramin , Grabow Niels
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The study investigated mechanical parameters of stent systems indicated for treatment of femoropopliteal (FP) arterial disease to support interpretation of clinical results and the related causalities.

Methods

Eight stent system types of same dimensions were investigated (n=2). Parameters were the profile of stent delivery system (SDS), radiopacity, trackability and pushability, bending stiffness (flexibility) and axial stiffness of expanded stents, length change during expansion, radial force, crush resistance, strut thickness and general surface condition.

Results

The trackability ranged from 0.237 to 0.920 N and the pushability was 47.9–67.6 %. The bending stiffness of SDS was between 108.42 and 412.68 N mm2. The length change during stent release to 5 mm was low, with one exception. The bending stiffness of the expanded stents was 2.73–41.67 N mm2. The normalized radial forces at 5 mm diameter ranged from 0.133 N/mm to 0.503 N/mm. During non-radial compression by 50 %, the forces were 3.07–8.42 N, with one exception (58.7 N). The strut thickness was 153–231 µm.

Conclusions

Large differences occurred for flexibility, radial force and length change during expansion. The data should be used when choosing the proper device for restoring vascular function.
Hairy bamboo leaf extract as an eco-friendly corrosion inhibitor for L245N steel in CO2-saturated oilfield produced water
Authors: He San , Xue Shiqi , Xu Huilan , Li Bin , Li Jianfeng
Published: May 2023

The inhibition of the corrosion of L245N steel in the CO2-saturated oilfield produced water by the extract of hairy bamboo leaf extract (BLE) has been investigated using electrochemical experiment (EIS), weight loss test, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), molecular dynamics simulation (MD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed adsorption of BLE on the surface of L245N steel conforms to the Langmuir isothermal adsorption. Electrochemical measurements indicated the maximum inhibition efficiency of 98.76 % at 45 °C and 4 (%v/v). FTIR analysis showed that the BLE contains functional moieties such as O–H, N–H, C=O, C=C, C–N, C–O, and orientin as the effective compound. SEM illustrated that with the addition of BLE, the corrosion of L245N metal is significantly reduced. MD simulation showed that BLE molecules tend to adsorb on the Fe surface, forming an inhibitor film.
The effect of context-based close packing supported with the 3D-virtual model of crystals structure on students’ achievement and attitude
Authors: Eticha Ayalew Temesgen , Amde Meseret , Bogale Yiheyis , Bekana Deribachew
Published: May 2023

The major intention of this work was to evaluate the effect of using context-based close packing supported with 3D-virtual model on the concept of crystals structure on students’ achievement and attitude. Accordingly, the study was conducted for two consecutive years and a total of 61 third-year undergraduate chemistry students have been participated. The nature of this study was quasi-experiment design and the sampled students were divided into intervention (24) and comparison (37) groups. The intervention group was treated with context-based close packing supported with the three dimensional virtual model (3D-virtual model), while the comparison group, covered the topic with the usual teaching-learning approach. The topic covered during the study period was crystals structure. At the end of the study, an identical post-test was given for both groups for comparative purposes. The result indicates that a significant difference was observed between the two groups (at p < 0.05). The intervention group students were more benefited than the comparison group. Besides, the response of intervention group students to the questionnaires and semi structured interviews indicates that the approach was effective in enhancing students’ understanding of crystals structure concepts, and students have a positive attitude towards the approach.
The challenge of clinical reasoning in chronic multimorbidity: time and interactions in the Health Issues Network model
Authors: Consorti Fabrizio , Torre Dario , Luzi Daniela , Pecoraro Fabrizio , Ricci Fabrizio , Tamburis Oscar
Published: May 2023

The increasing prevalence of multimorbidity requires new theoretical models and educational approaches to develop physicians’ ability to manage multimorbidity patients. The Health Issues Network (HIN) is an educational approach based on a graphical depiction of the evolutions over time of the concurrent health issues of a patient and of their interactions. From a theoretical point of view, the HIN approach is rooted in Prigogine’s vision of the “becoming” of the events and in the concept of knowledge organization, intended as the process of storing and structuring of information in a learner’s mind. The HIN approach allows to design clinical exercises to foster learners’ ability to detect evolutionary paths and interactions among health issues. Recent findings of neuroscience support the expectation that interpreting, completing, and creating diagrams depicting complex clinical cases improves the “sense of time”, as a fundamental competence in the management of multimorbidity. The application of the HIN approach is expected to decrease the risk of errors in the management of multimorbidity patients. The approach is still under validation, both for undergraduate students and for the continuous professional development of physicians.
The VP in language contact: on creation event lexicalization in Canadian French
Authors: Schirakowski Barbara
Published: May 2023

The effects of language contact on semantic and syntactic properties of verbs can be considered as not yet extensively studied. This contribution is concerned with French as a typical verb-framed language that cannot freely combine manner verbs with result-denoting arguments within the VP. Drawing on creation events, the study explores if restrictions can loosen, and lexicalization preferences change when French is in contact to a satellite-framed language like English. Judgment data from bilingual speakers of Canadian French (CaFr) are compared to data from speakers of Hexagonal French (HFr). The analysis addresses how selective copying from English is relevant for the acceptability of different VPs and considers how the factors of individual and social language dominance might influence the judgments within the CaFr group. The results show that French manner verbs and direct objects can be coerced into creation readings in both test groups as long as only the selectional restrictions of a particular verb have to be adapted. When, however, a general constraint of French has to be overridden to arrive at a creation reading, acceptability is higher in the CaFr group, who can resort to combinatorial copying from English. Furthermore, VPs in which manner is not lexicalized in the verb are somewhat more accepted in the HFr group than in the CaFr group. Within the CaFr group, certain cases of satellite framing are judged somewhat better by speakers from an English dominant region, while VPs without a manner verb reach slightly higher scores among speakers from Quebec. It is thus shown how structural and speaker-related factors can affect the acceptability of event descriptions in language contact.
Radial distribution of vascular bundle morphology in Chinese bamboos: machine learning methodology for rapid sampling and classification
Authors: Li Jing , Xu Haocheng , Zhang Ying , Zhong Tuhua , Semple Katherine , Nasir Vahid , Wang Hankun , Dai Chunping
Published: May 2023

Variation in anatomical features of the culm wall namely the shape and size distributions of vascular bundles between different genera and species of bamboo is not well understood due to the cumbersome task of manual measurements. Using machine learning methodology, this work presents a universal vascular bundle detection model for rapid, reliable, and automatic characterization of vascular bundles in culm cross sections of 213 species across 23 genera of Chinese bamboos. The number of vascular bundles and the fiber sheath area have positive linear correlations with the outer circumference and the wall thickness, respectively. The distribution density of vascular bundles has a decay exponential correlation with the outer circumference and the wall thickness. The average fiber volume fraction was 35.2 % ± 7 % with relatively small variation between species. Bamboo species could be grouped into three categories based the endodermis to epidermis distribution pattern of radial and tangential length of vascular bundles, two categories of radial-to-tangential ratio and four categories of fiber sheath area distribution pattern. Implications on bamboo classification, structural and pulp/paper applications were discussed. The findings from this study provide groundwork for the establishment of a unified, authoritative and objective bamboo classification system based on the vascular tissue morphology.
From principles to practices: the intertextual interaction between AI ethical and legal discourses
Authors: Cheng Le , Liu Xiuli
Published: May 2023

The ascendancy and ubiquity of generative AI technology, exemplified by ChatGPT, has resulted in a transformative shift in the conventional human–AI interaction paradigm, leading to substantial alterations in societal modes of production. Drawing on CDA approach, this study conducts a thematic intertextuality analysis of 29 AI ethical documents, and delves into the restructuring of the human–AI relations catalysed by ChatGPT, as well as the complex ethical and legal challenges it presents. The findings indicate that the thematic intertextuality between AI ethical discourse and legal discourse promotes the connection and convergence of narrative-ideological structures, which in turn primarily creates new meaningful texts and ethical frameworks that promote a holistic approach to a good AI society. This research also identifies the importance of integrating law-making efforts with substantive ethical analysis and appropriate discursive strategies to promote the responsible and ethical development of generative AI that benefits society as a whole.
Rabbi Jesus in Martin Luther’s Bible Translations
Authors: Shamir Avner
Published: May 2023

This article explores the figure of Jesus as teacher in Martin Luther’s translation of the New Testament by analysing Luther’s translation of the word “rabbi.” In three of the four Gospels, several interlocutors call Jesus “rabbi.” In his earliest translation (1522), Luther rendered the word as “master” in almost all the verses where the word appeared. However, in the editions of the New Testament that appeared in 1526–30, Luther revised the translation and reinstated “rabbi” as a valid title of Jesus. In order to understand Luther’s meaningful reconsideration of one of the main biblical titles of Jesus, the article discusses Luther’s translation practice, his general view on biblical titles and his employment of the term “rabbi” in polemics. The article suggests that rather than anti- or pro-Jewish sentiments, Luther’s view on the figure of Jesus as teacher enabled the revision in the translation. For Luther, the word “rabbi” was a locus where the Jewish and the Christian met, where the historical Jesus could by glimpsed and the unique qualities of Jesus as a teacher, as the only teacher, could be expressed.
Evaluating the performance of Indonesia’s nuclear energy program using INPRO methodology
Authors: Johari Johanna Maria Christina , Pane Jupiter Sitorus , Dewayatna Winter , Langenati Ratih , Suryaman Ganisa Kurniati , Adhi Arief Sasongko , Cahyono Agus , Rahmadi Gagad , Herutomo Bambang , Sunarko  , Priambodo Dedy , Sriyana  , Suparman
Published: May 2023

A project was initiated to assess the sustainability of Indonesia’s planned nuclear energy system using the IAEA INPRO Methodology to develop an awareness of sustainability issues to support nuclear energy development strategic planning and decision making. Accordingly, for a nuclear energy system to be sustainable, fulfilment of current needs should not compromise the ability of future generations to meet theirs. The sustainability of the planned nuclear energy system was assessed based on the basic principles, user requirements and criteria in the areas of economics, infrastructure, waste management, proliferation resistance, physical protection, environment, and safety. The assessments covers the sustainability of a large reactor completed in 2014 to support the Pre-Feasibility Study in Bangka Belitung, and of a small and medium-sized reactor (SMR) currently ongoing to support the study in West Kalimantan. The results indicate that evidence of achieving sustainability exists in many respects, but there remain gaps to be addressed in due time on aspects such as economics, investment climate, availability of technology, and global development on non-renewable resources. A preliminary study on fuel cycle arrangements is being performed in parallel, focussing on collecting data including on fuel cycle services abroad. Collecting data has been the main challenge for a newcomer country that has yet to decide on the exact reactor technology. The paper is intended to evaluate the performance of Indonesia’s nuclear energy program using the INPRO Methodology to address the sustainability of its planned NES, i.e., reactors and fuel cycle facilities, and to evaluate the effectiveness of the efforts to achieve the purpose. Awareness of sustainability issues plays a key role in nuclear energy policy, especially for determining the energy mix by 2040, to achieve the Net Zero Emission policy target by 2060 or earlier.
Towards a phonological typology of the Kalahari Basin Area languages
Authors: Nakagawa Hirosi , Witzlack-Makarevich Alena , Auer Daniel , Fehn Anne-Maria , Ammann Gerlach Linda , Güldemann Tom , Job Sylvanus , Lionnet Florian , Naumann Christfried , Ono Hitomi , Pratchett Lee J.
Published: May 2023

This article reports some results of the first large-scale, comprehensive survey of the phonological systems of the Khoisan languages of the Kalahari Basin Area. These languages are famous for their large sets of click phonemes, a typologically rare characteristic otherwise found only in a limited number of languages worldwide. They are also unique because the click phonemes carry a high functional load in terms of phonemic and lexical distinctions in the respective systems. Finally, these languages have strikingly similar and highly skewed root phonotactics. The article provides empirical support for a range of claims and speculations that have been made about these typologically rare systems of the Kalahari Basin Area.
Electrical generation of surface phonon polaritons
Authors: Gubbin Christopher R. , De Liberato Simone
Published: May 2023

Efficient electrical generation of mid-infrared light is challenging because of the dearth of materials with natural dipole-active electronic transitions in this spectral region. One approach to solve this problem is through quantum-engineering of the electron dispersion to create artificial transitions, as in quantum cascade devices. In this work we propose an alternative method to generate mid-infrared light, utilizing the coupling between longitudinal and transverse degrees of freedom due to the nonlocal optical response of nanoscopic polar dielectric crystals. Polar crystals support sub-diffraction photonic modes in the mid-infrared. They also support longitudinal phonons, which couple efficiently with electrical currents through the Fröhlich interaction. As we have shown in previous theoretical and experimental works, these two degrees of freedom can hybridize forming longitudinal-transverse polaritons. Here we theoretically demonstrate that longitudinal-transverse polaritons can be efficiently generated by electrical currents, leading to resonant narrowband photonic emission. This approach can therefore be utilised to electrically generate far-field mid-infrared photons in the absence of dipole-active electronic transitions, potentially underpinning a novel generation of mid-infrared optoelectronic devices.
The crystal structure of 3-(1′-deoxy-3′,5′-O-dibenzy-β-d-ribosyl)adenine dichloromethane solvate, C49H52Cl2N10O6
Authors: Wang Pingqiao , Zhu Yunlong , Ding Haixin , Huang Haiyang
Published: May 2023

C49H52Cl2N10O6, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 12.2875(14) Å, b = 8.3031(10) Å, c = 13.1242(15) Å, β = 

100.0640

(
10
)

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$100.0640{(10)}^{\circ }$

, V = 1318.4(3) Å3, Z = 1,

R

g
t

${R}_{\mathrm{g}\mathrm{t}}$

(F) = 0.0736,

w

R

r
e
f

$w{R}_{\mathrm{r}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{f}}$

(F
2) = 0.1545, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of (3R,3aS,6R,6aR)-6-hexyl-3-methyltetrahydrofuro[3,4-b]furan-2,4-dione, C13H20O4
Authors: Huang Yu-Xi , Chen Zan-Hong , Liao Yu-Ting , Li Jia-Yi , Huang Mei-Ying , Ding Bo , Huang Hong-Bo , Tao Yi-Wen
Published: May 2023

C13H20O4, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 9.7071(4) Å, b = 7.9026(4) Å, c = 17.3139(7) Å, β = 101.617(4)°, V = 1300.97(10) Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0428, wRref
(F
2) = 0.1145, T = 170 K.
Prognostic value of preoperative serological biomarkers in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer peritoneal metastases
Authors: Khaled Charif , El Asmar Antoine , Raisi Omar , Moreau Michel , Polastro Laura , Veys Isabelle , Pop Florin C. , Donckier Vincent , Liberale Gabriel
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Peritoneal metastases of ovarian cancer (PMOC) are common at initial presentation. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) of curative intent has been proven to be efficient in increasing the overall survival (OS) and the disease-free survival (DFS) of these patients. Nevertheless, CRS is associated with high postoperative morbidity, which makes patient selection a major concern. Appropriate prognostic factors that can predict patient outcomes after surgery are still lacking. Preoperative biomarkers and their ratios have been shown to be predictive of patient prognosis for various solid tumors. We aimed to study their correlation with the prognosis of patients undergoing CRS for PMOC.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with PMOC operated by CRS. Preoperative biomarkers and other clinicopathological characteristics were studied to determine their prognostic value in terms OS and DFS.

Results

216 patients were included. Patients with preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) <11.7 g/dL had a poorer prognosis in terms of OS (p=0.0062) and DFS (p=0.0077). Additionally, increased neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR) >0.32, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) >214.5 were associated with worse OS (p=0.022, p=0.0028, and p=0.0018, respectively) and worse DFS (p=0.028, p=0.003, and p=0.019, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that the variables mentioned above were independent predictive factors for OS and DFS.

Conclusions

Preoperative Hb level, NLR, MLR, and PLR are prognostic factors for OS and DFS in PMOC patients operated by curative CRS.
Shared Economy & 3D-Druck: Einfach. Nachhaltig. Sicher.
Authors: Brüning Sebastian , Kiklhorn David , Stuckmann Patrick , Wijlhuizen Ruud , Austerjost Maximilian , Große Nick
Published: May 2023

Der Handel mit ungenutzten Maschinenkapazitäten stellt eine Herausforderung dar. Bedenken hinsichtlich der Datenhoheit sowie fehlendes Vertrauen in die Partner und die technologische Infrastruktur erschweren die praktische Umsetzung. Die Blockchain-Technologie bietet hier einen vielversprechenden Lösungsansatz. Am Beispiel des 3D-Drucks wird untersucht, wie eine Blockchain-basierte Vermittlung von freien Kapazitäten zu einer schnelleren Bedarfsdeckung durch erhöhte Ressourcenverfügbarkeit, reduzierten Transaktionskosten, besserer Maschinenauslastung sowie neuen Geschäftsmodellen führen kann.
Überwachung von Werkzeugverschleiß
Authors: Denkena Berend , Klemme Heinrich , Stiehl Tobias H.
Published: May 2023

Durch die Überwachung von Werkzeugverschleiß kann, trotz schwankender Standzeiten, potenziell jedes Werkzeug bis zur Einsatzgrenze genutzt werden. Allerdings muss eine solche Überwachung bisher an jeder Maschine neu angelernt werden. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt einen Ansatz, bei dem die maschinenspezifische Anlernphase entfällt. Dafür wird die Überwachung mit Daten angelernt, die zuvor an anderen Maschinen aufgenommen wurden. Zudem wird ein Demonstrator zur Überwachung der Verschleißmarkenbreite beim Fräsen vorgestellt.
Universelle Datenschnittstelle für digitale Wertstromdienste
Authors: Böhm Markus , Drees Jörg , Sai Brandon , Erlach Klaus , Stambera Steffi , Teriete Tim
Published: May 2023

Moderne Produktionsanlagen bieten die Funktion, ihre Attribute und Zustände eigenständig digital abzubilden. Die so entstehenden Daten enthalten Informationen über eine Vielzahl von in der Produktion lokal aufgetretenen Einzelereignissen. Der in diesem Beitrag beschriebene Ansatz nutzt diese „Events“ als strukturierte Rohdaten, um Dienste zur Produktionsoptimierung im methodischen Rahmen des Wertstroms zu entwickeln. Technisches Ziel ist dabei, den zu verarbeitenden Datenstrom so zu vereinheitlichen, dass er an einer universellen Schnittstelle direkt für die Serviceentwicklung genutzt werden kann. Ein Wertstromdienst zur Kennzahlenberechnung und Visualisierung wurde im Forschungsprojekt ECOWERT bereits erfolgreich angebunden.
Digitale Arbeitsanweisungen basierend auf dem Digitalen Zwilling
Authors: Eversberg Leon , Lambrecht Jens
Published: May 2023

Der Mensch bleibt aufgrund seiner Intelligenz und Flexibilität fester Bestandteil der Industrie 4.0. Aufgrund steigender Produkt- und Produktionskomplexität wächst jedoch der Unterstützungsbedarf der Mitarbeiter. Assistenzsysteme können die Mitarbeiter kognitiv unterstützen, indem die richtigen Informationen zur richtigen Zeit geliefert werden. Das in diesem Beitrag vorgestellte Assistenzsystem für manuelle Reparaturarbeiten konnte in einer Nutzerstudie die Arbeitszeit und die Arbeitsbelastung bei erfahrenen Werkern reduzieren.
The Induction and Examination of Hongmu 31 (1398)’s Bunjaegi on Slaves Sending Back to the Owners
Authors:   Institute of Korean Cultural Studies Yeungnam University, Chae Gwang-Soo
Published: May 2023

This study will introduce Bunjaegi written in 1398 (Hongmu 31), and it is particularly special because it has been regarded as the earliest case in Chosun. Moreover, as it deals with detailed contents including slaves’ runaway and arrest-related matters or the division of escaping slaves, it is even more noteworthy, and the document itself has crucial meaning as it is.
The document examined here contains the process of sending the slaves back to the owners, division of slaves sending back to the owners, or the participants’ signature. When an escaping slave belonging to the family of Kim Min, the former Gammu of Goryeong, was found in Gimhwa-hyeon of Gangwon, nine former and in-service public officials joined in the process of sending him back to the owner. They had different roles according to their governmental post and succeeded in sending the slave back to the owner.
Hence, the division of slaves was done in May, 1398. Ijojeonseo Jeong (鄭), the possessor of the document, received 3口, and the rest were divided according to their contribution. Regarding the way of naming, there was difference as they put only the last name of Gogwan and the first name, too, for Migwan in it, and the former was placed in the back. To introduce this document to academic circles itself is absolutely meaningful as we cannot find any precedent of it. Furthermore, it can be said to have significant value in that the issues of salves at the end of the 14th century can be utilized in research on the social history and also the history of management and control of the time as well.
Nutrition, Training, Supplementation, and Performance-Enhancing Drug Practices of Male and Female Physique Athletes Peaking for Competition
Authors: Escalante Guillermo , Barakat Christopher , Tinsley Grant M. , Schoenfeld Brad J.
Published: May 2023

Escalante, G, Barakat, C, Tinsley, GM, and Schoenfeld, BJ. Nutrition, training, supplementation, and performance-enhancing drug practices of male and female physique athletes peaking for competition. J Strength Cond Res 37(8): e444–e454, 2023—The purpose of this descriptive investigation was threefold: (a) to assess the nutrition, training, supplement, and performance-enhancement drug practices of male and female physique competitors 30 days before competition; (b) to examine the specific water and macronutrient manipulation performed by competitors during the last 3 days before competition; and (c) to assess physiological responses to precontest preparation including body composition, body fluids, resting heart rate, and blood pressure. Competitors reported performing moderately high volume, moderate to high repetition, split-body resistance training programs performed on most days of the week; the programs included the use of a variety of advanced training methods. A majority of competitors included cardio to expedite fat loss, and most reported performing cardio in a fasted state despite a lack of objective evidentiary support for the practice. Competitors substantially restricted calories and consumed protein in amounts well above research-based guidelines (>3 g·kg−1·d−1); carbohydrate and lipid intake were highly variable. Water was substantially reduced in the final 3 days before competition. Competitors used a variety of dietary supplements throughout the study period, many of which are not supported by research. Both male and female competitors reported using performance enhancing drugs (∼48 and ∼38%, respectively) including testosterone derivatives, selective androgen receptor modulators, and human growth hormone. More research is warranted to elucidate safer and more effective peak week practices for physique competitors.
Rationale and Practical Recommendations for Testing Protocols in Female Soccer: A Narrative Review
Authors: Beato Marco , Datson Naomi , Anderson Liam , Brownlee Thomas , Coates Alex , Hulton Andrew
Published: May 2023

Beato, M, Datson, N, Anderson, L, Brownlee, T, Coates, A, and Hulton, A. Rationale and practical recommendations for testing protocols in female soccer: A narrative review. J Strength Cond Res 37(9): 1912–1922, 2023—The aim of this narrative review is to evaluate the presented literature on tests (aerobic, speed, changes of direction [COD], strength, power, jump, and anthropometry) of the varied components of female soccer and to draw attention to the most suitable protocols to allow practitioners to accurately track players' fitness status. The 2 most common field tests used to assess aerobic fitness are the Yo-Yo intermittent test (level 1 and level 2) and the 30–15 intermittent fitness test because of an ability to measure multiple players at once with a soccer-specific intermittent profile. The sprinting performance can be assessed on distances of <30 m; however, longer distances (e.g., 40 m) allow for achieving peak speed (flying sprint test), which can be assessed using global navigation satellite system. Changes-of-direction capacity has been found to be an important component of players testing and training programs, although there is no “gold standard” to assess COD or repeated sprint ability performance in female players. Lower-limb power can be assessed using jump tests that can use force platforms, jump mats, and optoelectronic devices, while maintaining a good reliability. Several in-direct tests are currently available for assessing anthropometry parameters, such as skinfold thickness, hydrodensitometry, and ultrasound. However, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry is the most valid and reliable method for assessing body composition in team sport athletes, with the addition of bone health that is a key measure in female athletes. In conclusion, the evidence reported in this review will be able to aid practitioners, coaches, and researchers to decide which tests meet the requirements of their environment.
High-Fidelity Reproduction of Visual Signals by Electrical Stimulation in the Central Primate Retina
Authors: Gogliettino Alex R. , Madugula Sasidhar S. , Grosberg Lauren E. , Vilkhu Ramandeep S. , Brown Jeff , Nguyen Huy , Kling Alexandra , Hottowy Paweł , Dąbrowski Władysław , Sher Alexander , Litke Alan M. , Chichilnisky E. J.
Published: May 2023

Electrical stimulation of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) with electronic implants provides rudimentary artificial vision to people blinded by retinal degeneration. However, current devices stimulate indiscriminately and therefore cannot reproduce the intricate neural code of the retina. Recent work has demonstrated more precise activation of RGCs using focal electrical stimulation with multielectrode arrays in the peripheral macaque retina, but it is unclear how effective this can be in the central retina, which is required for high-resolution vision. This work probes the neural code and effectiveness of focal epiretinal stimulation in the central macaque retina, using large-scale electrical recording and stimulationex vivo. The functional organization, light response properties, and electrical properties of the major RGC types in the central retina were mostly similar to the peripheral retina, with some notable differences in density, kinetics, linearity, spiking statistics, and correlations. The major RGC types could be distinguished by their intrinsic electrical properties. Electrical stimulation targeting parasol cells revealed similar activation thresholds and reduced axon bundle activation in the central retina, but lower stimulation selectivity. Quantitative evaluation of the potential for image reconstruction from electrically evoked parasol cell signals revealed higher overall expected image quality in the central retina. An exploration of inadvertent midget cell activation suggested that it could contribute high spatial frequency noise to the visual signal carried by parasol cells. These results support the possibility of reproducing high-acuity visual signals in the central retina with an epiretinal implant.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTArtificial restoration of vision with retinal implants is a major treatment for blindness. However, present-day implants do not provide high-resolution visual perception, in part because they do not reproduce the natural neural code of the retina. Here, we demonstrate the level of visual signal reproduction that is possible with a future implant by examining how accurately responses to electrical stimulation of parasol retinal ganglion cells can convey visual signals. Although the precision of electrical stimulation in the central retina was diminished relative to the peripheral retina, the quality of expected visual signal reconstruction in parasol cells was greater. These findings suggest that visual signals could be restored with high fidelity in the central retina using a future retinal implant.
Neuronal Spiking Responses to Direct Electrical Microstimulation in the Human Cortex
Authors: Youssef David , Wittig John H. , Jackson Samantha , Inati Sara K. , Zaghloul Kareem A.
Published: May 2023

Microstimulation can modulate the activity of individual neurons to affect behavior, but the effects of stimulation on neuronal spiking are complex and remain poorly understood. This is especially challenging in the human brain where the response properties of individual neurons are sparse and heterogeneous. Here we use microelectrode arrays in the human anterior temporal lobe in 6 participants (3 female) to examine the spiking responses of individual neurons to microstimulation delivered through multiple distinct stimulation sites. We demonstrate that individual neurons can be driven with excitation or inhibition using different stimulation sites, which suggests an approach for providing direct control of spiking activity at the single-neuron level. Spiking responses are inhibitory in neurons that are close to the site of stimulation, while excitatory responses are more spatially distributed. Together, our data demonstrate that spiking responses of individual neurons can be reliably identified and manipulated in the human cortex.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOne of the major limitations in our ability to interface directly with the human brain is that the effects of stimulation on the activity of individual neurons remain poorly understood. This study examines the spiking responses of neurons in the human temporal cortex in response to pulses of microstimulation. This study finds that individual neurons can either be excited or inhibited depending on the site of stimulation. These data suggest an approach for modulating the spiking activity of individual neurons in the human brain.
ADAMTS4 Enhances Oligodendrocyte Differentiation and Remyelination by Cleaving NG2 Proteoglycan and AttenuatingPDGFRα Signaling
Authors: Jiang Chunxia , Qiu Wanwan , Yang Yingying , Huang Hao , Dai Zhong-min , Yang Aifen , Tang Tao , Zhao Xiaofeng , Qiu Mengsheng
Published: May 2023

Although NG2 is known to be selectively expressed in oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) for many years, its expressional regulation and functional involvement in oligodendrocyte differentiation have remained elusive. Here, we report that the surface-bound NG2 proteoglycan can physically bind to PDGF-AA and enhances PDGF receptor alpha (PDGFRα) activation of downstream signaling. During differentiation stage, NG2 protein is cleaved by A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs type 4 (Adamts4), which is highly upregulated in differentiating OPCs but gradually downregulated in mature myelinating oligodendrocytes. Genetic ablation ofAdamts4gene impedes NG2 proteolysis, leading to elevated PDGFRα signaling but impaired oligodendrocyte differentiation and axonal myelination in both sexes of mice. Moreover,Adamts4deficiency also lessens myelin repair in adult brain tissue following Lysophosphatidylcholine-induced demyelination. Thus,Adamts4could be a potential therapeutic target for enhancing oligodendrocyte differentiation and axonal remyelination in demyelinating diseases.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTNG2 is selectively expressed in OPCs and downregulated during differentiation stage. To date, the molecular mechanism underlying the progressive removal of NG2 surface proteoglycan in differentiating OPCs has been unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that ADAMTS4 released by differentiating OPCs cleaves surface NG2 proteoglycan, attenuates PDGFRα signaling, and accelerates oligodendrocyte differentiation. In addition, our study also suggests ADAMTS4 as a potential therapeutic target for promoting myelin recovery in demyelinating diseases.
Disinhibition of Mesolimbic Dopamine Circuit by the Lateral Hypothalamus Regulates Pain Sensation
Authors: Ma Yu , Zhao Weinan , Chen Dandan , Zhou Dongyu , Gao Yihong , Bian Yixin , Xu Yuqing , Xia Sun-Hui , Fang Tantan , Yang Jun-Xia , Song Lingzhen , Liu He , Ding Hai-Lei , Zhang Hongxing , Cao Jun-Li
Published: May 2023

Our recent study demonstrated the critical role of the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) circuit and its brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) signaling in mediating neuropathic pain. The present study aims to investigate the functional role of GABAergic inputs from the lateral hypothalamus (LH) to the ventral tegmental area (VTA; LHGABA→VTA) in regulating the mesolimbic DA circuit and its BDNF signaling underlying physiological and pathologic pain. We demonstrated that optogenetic manipulation of the LHGABA→VTA projection bidirectionally regulated pain sensation in naive male mice. Optogenetic inhibition of this projection generated an analgesic effect in mice with pathologic pain induced by chronic constrictive injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve and persistent inflammatory pain by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). Trans-synaptic viral tracing revealed a monosynaptic connection between LH GABAergic neurons and VTA GABAergic neurons. Functionally,in vivocalcium/neurotransmitter imaging showed an increased DA neuronal activity, decreased GABAergic neuronal activity in the VTA, and increased dopamine release in the NAc, in response to optogenetic activation of the LHGABA→VTA projection. Furthermore, repeated activation of the LHGABA→VTA projection was sufficient to increase the expression of mesolimbic BDNF protein, an effect seen in mice with neuropathic pain. Inhibition of this circuit induced a decrease in mesolimbic BDNF expression in CCI mice. Interestingly, the pain behaviors induced by activation of the LHGABA→VTA projection could be prevented by pretreatment with intra-NAc administration of ANA-12, a TrkB receptor antagonist. These results demonstrated that LHGABA→VTA projection regulated pain sensation by targeting local GABAergic interneurons to disinhibit the mesolimbic DA circuit and regulating accumbal BDNF release.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system and its brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) signaling have been implicated in pain regulation, however, underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. The lateral hypothalamus (LH) sends different afferent fibers into and strongly influences the function of mesolimbic DA system. Here, utilizing cell type- and projection-specific viral tracing, optogenetics,in vivocalcium and neurotransmitter imaging, our current study identified the LHGABA→VTA projection as a novel neural circuit for pain regulation, possibly by targeting the VTA GABA-ergic neurons to disinhibit mesolimbic pathway-specific DA release and BDNF signaling. This study provides a better understanding of the role of the LH and mesolimbic DA system in physiological and pathological pain.
Escaping the Long Shadow of Homo Sovieticus
Authors: Blackburn Matthew , Khlevniuk Daria
Published: May 2023

It is often asserted that the values and attitudes of Homo Sovieticus, marked in the rising “popularity” of Stalin, live on in contemporary Russia, acting as a negative factor in social and political development. This article critiques the argument that attitudes to Stalin reflect unreformed Soviet values and explain Russia’s authoritarian regression and failed modernization. Our critique of this legacy argument has three parts. First, after examining the problematic elements of the Levada Center approach, we offer alternative explanations for understanding quantitative data on Stalin and the repressions. Second, we examine interview data showing that, for those with a pro-Stalin position, “defending Stalin” is only a small part of a broader worldview that is not obviously part of a “Soviet legacy.” Third, we consider survey data from the trudnaia-pamiat’ project and find common reluctance to discuss much of the Stalinist past, which we argue represents an agonistic stance. Thus, we interpret attitudes to Stalin within a broader context of complex social and cultural transformation where the anomie of the 1990s has been replaced with dynamics toward a more positive identity construct. On the one hand, the antagonistic mode of memory is visible in statist and patriotic discourses, which do not seriously revolve around Stalin but do resist strong criticism of him. On the other hand, we find many more in Russia avoid the Stalin question and adopt an agonistic mode, avoiding conflict through a “de-politicized” version of history.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF TAQLĪD AND FANATICISM TO THE FALLACY AND TRUTH PERCEPTION OF IJTIHĀD
Authors: Asar A.K.
Published: May 2023

This study attempts to shed light on the relationship of taqlīd and fanaticism to the fallacy and truth perception of ijtihād. Looking at the meaning of taqlīd and fanaticism; the researcher finds that there is strong relationship of taqlīd and fanaticism to the two main schools of thought known as “al-takhṭiaћ” [fallacy perception of ijtihād] and “al-taṣwīb” [truth perception of ijtihād]. Both opinions have caused taqlīd and fanaticism to preferred madzhāhib; moreover the “al-takhṭiaћ” school of thought which has negative impact on Islāmic nation, as it necessitates constant conflict between Muslims:  common people, as well as among scholars who do not achieve the level of ijtihād. At the end, the researcher has concluded that the more appropriate and correct view is that all mujtahids who have did their best, are correct in their ijtihād; however the truth is only with one of them, not all of them.
Predicting Sustainable Development Goals through the Industry 4.0: Insights from Public Listed Companies
Authors: Shaharudin Muhammad Shabir , Ganesan Yuvaraj , Fernando Yudi , Ahmad Noor Hazlina , Amran Azlan , Lee Khai Loon
Published: May 2023

In an ideal world, publicly listed companies would be forced to publish a report on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The abandonment of SDG reporting in annual reports by public corporations is the focus of this study. We noticed in recent years that many companies are unable to recognise and commit to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in their annual reports. We observed that Malaysia prioritises economic growth above environmental concerns. Malaysia's economic growth and health system have been jeopardised as a result of the current COVID-19 outbreak. It will be difficult to achieve the other sustainable development objectives if there is a significant prevalence of chronic infectious and non-infectious diseases, as well as a lack of physical, mental, and social well-being in society. In this study, a collection of primary data gathered from the Bursa Malaysia will be used for performance analysis and forecasting. The analytical tools used for this inquiry were Power BI and RapidMiner. In the first activity, we discovered that software and services businesses who use IR 4.0 had the best SDG implementation performance. According to the study, there is a significant relationship between organisations' use of IR 4.0 and their efforts to fulfil the SDGs. It will be easier to meet the Sustainable Development Goals with broad IR 4.0 adoption in a company. According to the results of the survey, Selangor is the state with the highest degree of company SDG implementation. In conclusion, predicted data reveal that states and specific SDGs have a substantial influence on corporate adoption of SDGs. Finally, Selangor-based software and service enterprises provide the most contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Elevated serum trimethylamine oxide levels as potential biomarker for diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Huang Yinqiong , Zhu Zhaozhao , Huang Zhiqin , Zhou Jingxiong
Published: May 2023

Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) has become a major cause of chronic kidney disease. However, early diagnosis of DKD is challenging. Trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) is an intestinal microbial metabolite which might be associated with diabetes complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between TMAO and DKD.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 108 T2DM patients and 33 healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Multiple logistic regression analyses and area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC) were performed to evaluate the correlation between serum TMAO and DKD.

Results

Serum TMAO levels were significantly higher in DKD patients than healthy control group and the NDKD (T2DM without combined DKD) group (P < 0.05). TMAO levels were negatively correlated with eGFR and positively correlated with urea nitrogen, ACR and DKD (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that serum TMAO was one of the independent risk factors for DKD patients (P < 0.05). In the diagnostic model, the AUROC of TMAO for the diagnosis of DKD was 0.691.

Conclusion

Elevated levels of serum TMAO levels were positively associated with the risk of DKD in T2DM patients, which might be a potential biomarker for DKD.