bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Urinary Peptidome to Unravel Collagen Degradation in Health and Kidney Disease
Authors: Mina Ioanna K. , Iglesias‐Martinez Luis F. , Ley Matthias , Fillinger Lucas , Perco Paul , Siwy Justyna , Mischak Harald , Jankowski Vera
Published: December 2024

Naturally occurring fragments of collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) have been previously associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD), with some fragments showing positive and others negative associations. Using urinary peptidome data from healthy individuals (n = 1131) and CKD patients (n = 5585) this aspect was investigated in detail. Based on the hypothesis that many collagen peptides are derived not from the full, mature collagen molecule, but from (larger) collagen degradation products, relationships between COL1A1 peptides containing identical sequences were investigated, with the smaller (offspring) peptide being a possible degradation product of the larger (parent) one. The strongest correlations were found for relationships where the parent differed by a maximum of three amino acids from the offspring, indicating an exopeptidase‐regulated stepwise degradation process. Regression analysis indicated that CKD affects this degradation process. A comparison of matched CKD patients and control individuals (n = 612 each) showed that peptides at the start of the degradation process were consistently downregulated in CKD, indicating an attenuation of COL1A1 endopeptidase‐mediated degradation. However, as these peptides undergo further degradation, likely mediated by exopeptidases, this downregulation can become less significant or even reverse, leading to an upregulation of later‐stage fragments and potentially explaining the inconsistencies observed in previous studies.
The Zebrafish Sperm Proteome
Authors: Cohen‐Krais Jayme , Martins Carlo , Bartram Jamie , Crighton Zoe , de Coriolis Jean‐Charles , Godden Alice , Marcu Daniel , Robak Weronika , Saalbach Gerhard , Immler Simone
Published: December 2024

One of the key processes that forms the basis of fertilisation is the tight interaction between sperm and egg. Both sperm and egg proteomes are known to evolve and diverge rapidly even between closely related species. Understanding the sperm proteome therefore provides key insights into the proteins that underpin the mechanisms involved during fertilisation and the fusion between sperm and egg, and how they can differ across individuals of the same species. Despite being a commonly used model organism for reproductive research, little is currently understood about the zebrafish Danio rerio sperm proteome. We performed nanoLC‐MS/MS proteomics analysis after off‐line sample fractionation with six pooled samples containing sperm from ten males each. We confidently identified 5410 proteins, from which a total of 3900 GeneIDs were generated leading to 1720 Gene Ontology terms.
Psychosocial Correlates of Death Anxiety in Advanced Cancer: A Scoping Review
Authors: Brown Tyler L. , Chown Philippa , Solomon Sheldon , Gore Genevieve , De Groot Janet M. , MacKinnon Christopher J. , Rodin Gary , Sanders Justin J.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Individuals living with advanced cancer commonly experience death anxiety, which refers to the distressing thoughts or feelings associated with awareness of one's mortality. Deriving an overview of existing literature on the psychological and social factors linked to death anxiety may inform conceptual models, clinical screening, and intervention strategies in oncology and palliative care. Therefore, the present scoping review was conducted to summarize the current literature on the psychosocial correlates of death anxiety among individuals with advanced cancer.

Methods

A comprehensive scoping review methodology was used following the Arksey and O'Malley framework. A literature search was conducted using four electronic databases: CINAHL, Embase, PsycInfo, and MEDLINE. Abstracts and full‐text articles were screened, and relevant data were extracted and summarized.

Results

Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen psychosocial correlates of death anxiety were identified, with depression, spiritual well‐being, and attachment security representing the most frequently investigated. Four previously tested death anxiety models were also identified, two of which were designed longitudinally.

Conclusions

This review provides a current summary of psychosocial factors and established models related to death anxiety in advanced cancer. Multiple psychosocial correlates should be targeted concurrently in research and clinical practice to address death anxiety. Longitudinal studies designed to test new models are especially needed to identify unique pathways contributing to death anxiety across the disease trajectory of advanced cancer.
In Search of Candidate Protein Biomarkers Related to COVID‐19 in Solid Tissues and Non‐Blood Fluids: An Update
Authors: Alexovič Michal , Uličná Csilla , Tabani Hadi , Sabo Ján
Published: December 2024

Purpose

During COVID‐19, significant changes in protein abundance can be linked with disease‐related processes. The mass spectrometry–based proteomics of COVID‐19‐related biomarkers can help with the prognosis and diagnosis of this severe disease.

Design

Here, we surveyed scientific works in terms of proteomic analysis of solid tissues and non‐blood fluids from COVID‐19 patients. Works published since 2022 to date have been covered.

Results

Brain, lymph nodes, heart, spleen, aorta walls, liver, adrenal gland and kidneys were investigated as solid organs/tissues. The non‐blood fluids involved exhaled breath particles, airway mucus, saliva, swabs, colostrum/milk and urine. The provided table depicts studies/experimental platforms to analyse COVID‐19‐related candidate protein biomarkers.

Conclusion

Even eminent research input has been made in this field, continuation towards deeper findings should be made. Translation of proteomics into the clinics to help with diagnostics and therapeutical strategies, is a highly important task. The analysed candidate protein biomarkers are the perspective molecules for pending clinical decisions making and treatments.
Low‐Intensity Exercise Protects Skeletal and Cardiac Muscle Against Cancer‐Mediated Muscle Wasting via Regulation of Autophagy and Inflammation
Authors: Tichy Louisa , Parry Traci L.
Published: December 2024

Background

Up to 80% of cancer patients suffer from skeletal and cardiac muscle wasting, also known as cancer cachexia. This metabolic wasting syndrome is responsible for up to one‐third of deaths in these cancer patients. Treatment options to attenuate muscle loss are limited. However, research shows that exercise interventions can slow tumour development and preserve muscle mass and function. Questions remain regarding the most effective modalities of exercise as a preventative intervention against cancer‐mediated muscle wasting. The purpose of this study was to determine if low‐intensity treadmill exercise can act as a protective measure and intervention against cancer‐mediated muscle wasting in male mice.

Methods

Male LC3 Tg+ and WT mice were randomly separated into four groups: sedentary non‐tumour bearing (SED + NT), sedentary tumour bearing (SED + T), low‐intensity treadmill exercise non‐tumour bearing (TM + NT) and low‐intensity treadmill exercise tumour bearing (TM + T). Mice were implanted with tumour cells (T group; 5 × 105 LLC cells in flank) or remained non‐tumour (NT) for 4 weeks. During the 4 weeks, mice underwent a low‐intensity treadmill training protocol (TM) or remained sedentary (SED). Grip strength, echocardiography and tumour growth was assessed, and inflammatory and autophagic protein pathways in skeletal and cardiac muscle tissue were investigated.

Results

SED + T mice exhibited worst grip strength and cardiac function (fractional shortening). Coinciding with worse skeletal and cardiac function, inflammatory and autophagic pathways were abnormally upregulated in SED + T mice compared with NT controls (p < 0.05). Low‐intensity exercise protected musculature by cardiac function and grip strength in TM + T compared with SED + T mice. Low‐intensity exercise attenuated inflammation and autophagy in TM + T mice. Additionally, treadmill exercise resulted in significantly smaller tumour mass and volume (p < 0.05) in the TM + T compared with SED + T group.

Conclusions

Our data indicated cardioprotective, myoprotective and tumour‐suppressive effects of low‐intensity treadmill exercise in tumour bearing mice. Low‐intensity exercise preserved skeletal and cardiac muscle function and inhibited tumour growth by regulating autophagy and inflammation. Therefore, low‐intensity treadmill exercise may be an effective, affordable and accessible adjuvant treatment for cancer patients.
Macroeconomic Drivers of Sustainable Tourism Development in Bangladesh: An ARDL Bounds Testing Approach
Authors: Kuri Bapon Chandra , Nahiduzzaman Md. , Dhar Bablu Kumar , Shabbir Rubaiyat , Karim Rejaul
Published: December 2024

Tourism serves as a critical driver of economic development, yet its relationship with macroeconomic and socio‐political factors remains underexplored in emerging economies like Bangladesh. This study examines the long‐run and short‐run impacts of macroeconomic drivers, including CO₂ emissions, GDP growth, inflation, population growth, road safety, refugee population, and tourism services, on inbound tourism in Bangladesh, employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach. The findings reveal that while CO₂ emissions have a short–term positive impact associated with industrial growth, they negatively affect tourism in the long run due to environmental degradation. Road safety challenges and socio‐political instability, including terrorism and refugee influx, significantly deter tourism. Conversely, improvements in infrastructure positively influence tourism demand over time. By integrating sustainability into tourism strategies, this research highlights the alignment of tourism development with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Practical implications include adopting cleaner energy initiatives, improving road safety, and fostering inclusivity through gender‐focused entrepreneurship and refugee integration. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of sustainable tourism in developing nations and offers actionable insights for policymakers aiming to balance economic growth with environmental and social considerations.
Synthesis and Multi‐Target Inhibition of Bis‐Schiff Bases of Barbituric Acid: in Vitro α‐glucosidase, α‐amylase Inhibitory Activities With Docking and DFT Studies
Authors: Zahir Mahnoor , Alam Aftab , Jan Faheem , Khan Ajmal , AlAsmari Abdullah F. , Alasmari Fawaz , Khan Momin , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed
Published: December 2024

The current research is based on the synthesis of some novel bis‐Schiff bases bearing barbituric acid moiety followed by characterization through modern spectroscopic techniques and their in vitro inhibitory effects against the enzymes α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase were subsequently investigated. In the series, four compounds 8 (IC50 = 5.62 ± 0.18 and 3.12 ± 0.13 µM), 10 (IC50 = 7.13 ± 1.03 and 8.19 ± 1.11 µM), 9 (IC50 = 12.81 ± 1.92 and 12.11 ± 1.32 µM), and 11 (IC50 = 15.07 ± 0.38 and 16.01 ± 0.28 µM) attributed notable dual inhibition against α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase enzymes better than the standard acarbose drug (IC50 = 16.16 ± 0.15 and 16.65 ± 0.17 µM). The molecular docking study was performed to explored the binding affinities and key interactions of synthesized compounds with targeted proteins (α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase). Furthermore, the stability of all the compounds were verified by density functional theory (DFT) method at B3LYP/6–311++G(d,p). For the account of intramolecular interaction, DFT‐D3 and reduced density gradient (RDG) methods were utilized. In addition, utilising the CAM‐B3LYP functional with 6–311++G(d,p), the TD‐DFT approach was used to examine different reactivity circumstances.
Zinc Complexes with Mixed Ligands and the Effect on Excitation and Emission Spectra by Changing the Binding Sites
Authors: Li Shixiong , Feng Xiaojing , Chen Huijun , Xu Shihua
Published: December 2024

Fluorescence properties of mixed‐ligand zinc(II) complexes may be affected by the interactions between different ligands, resulting in more complex fluorescence behavior due to the discrepancy between energy levels. In this paper, three zinc(II) complexes: {[Zn2(L1)2(CO3)](H2O)}n (1), [Zn(L2)(H2O)3]n (2), and [Zn8(L1)8(L2)4(H2O)4]n (3) were obtained by using 3‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole (HL1) and 5‐hydroxyisophthalic acid (H2L2) as organic linkers. X‐ray single crystal diffraction shows that 1 can be described as the dinuclear zinc SBUs bridged through L1− and CO32− to form a 2‐D structure. Complex 2 features the L22− linkers connecting mononuclear Zn(II) in μ2‐η1:η1 fashion to generate an 1‐D structure, and the adjacent chains were packed through hydrogen bonds to assemble a 2‐D structure. However, 3 is characterized the eight‐core zinc units concatenated by L1− and L22− to acquire a 3‐D structure. An obvious red‐shift of 73 nm, and 76 nm emerges in solid‐state fluorescence emission spectrum of 3 compared with HL1 and H2L2, which is also stronger than that of 1 and 2. Such phenomenon is mainly caused by the richer binding sites with Zn(II) in 3 deriving from mixed ligands, which is not only conducive to increase the stability of the complex but also to reduce the possibility of nonradiative transitions.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Magnetically Recyclable Fe3o4@Uio‐66 Composite with Enhanced Oxytetracycline Adsorption Capacity
Authors: Liu Zhanmeng , Lu Mang , Gan Haitao , Li Jiacheng , Gao Guiqing , Xu Manqing , Wang Xianglian
Published: December 2024

As one of the most stable metal‐organic frame materials (MOFs), UiO‐66 has attracted extensive attention in the adsorption field. However, the application of UiO‐66 is still constrained by the weak electron‐hole charge separation capability and the low accessibility of micropores. In this study, the mesoporous defects of UiO‐66 were constructed with acetic acid and doped with Fe3O4 to prepare magnetically recyclable Fe3O4@UiO‐66. The doping of Fe3O4 resulted in the formation of denatured mesoporous defects in UiO‐66, which was conducive to adsorption oxytetracycline (OTC) in water. The crystal structure and physicochemical characteristics of Fe3O4@UiO‐66 were examined. By using the static adsorption technique, the adsorption characteristics and mechanism of OTC on Fe3O4@UiO‐66 were investigated. The results reveal that Fe3O4@UiO‐66 has an adsorption capacity of 210 mg g−1 and an OTC removal ratio of 84.0%. The pseudo‐second‐order kinetics, Elovich, and Langmuir isothermal adsorption models were all applicable to the adsorption process. The adsorption process increased entropy and was an endothermic reaction. Solution pH has a little effect on the adsorption performance. This study provides the possibility of one‐step synthesis of MOFs that can efficiently adsorb tetracycline antibiotics in water with low cost and excellent recyclability and reusablity.
Structural Color Contact Lenses from Cholesteric Cellulose Liquid Crystals
Authors: Zhang Zhuohao , Pan Meidie , Yang Xinyuan , Shang Luoran , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: December 2024

Colored contact lenses have gained popularity among young individuals owing to their ability to alter the appearance of the wearer's eyes. However, conventional lenses containing chemical dyes are susceptible to detachment of the pigment layer, which can lead to corneal damage. In this research, a novel cellulose‐based structural color contact lens (SCCL) is presented that enhances aesthetic appeal via a cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) layer. Methacrylate‐functionalized hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPCMA) molecules self‐assemble into CLC and are cross‐linked within the lens mold, resulting in the colored iris region of the contact lens. By employing multistep polymerization techniques, lenses with composite colors and intricate shapes are fabricated. Moreover, by incorporating bioderived antimicrobial peptides into the structurally colored region of the lens, SCCLs are achieved with good biocompatibility, controlled drug release, and broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity. The results of in vivo experiments using an animal model indicate that the SCCLs perform well in the treatment of bacterial keratitis. It is believed that these drug‐loaded structurally colored contact lenses will lead to various advancements in ocular medical devices and provide antibacterial protection against infectious keratitis in the future.
Evaluation of Boerhaavia diffusa roots extract as a sustainable corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in sulfuric acid environments
Authors: Nunach Amit Kumar , Rani Gita , Ahlawat Rachna , Kumar Harish
Published: December 2024

Mild steel (MS) is a widely used type of steel because of its different types of qualities like versatility, affordability, and ease of modification. On the other hand, its vulnerability to corrosion may somewhat detract from its merits. To mitigate the corrosion impacts various techniques are applied. The use of corrosion inhibitors remains one of the most effective strategies to prevent corrosion, especially in environments where sustainability is increasingly important. In this study, we evaluated the corrosion‐inhibiting properties of Boerhaavia diffusa (BHD) root extract in various concentrations (1–6%) on mild steel (MS) in an acidic solution (0.1 M H2SO4). To characterize the functional groups present in the BHD extract, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed. A combination of methods, including weight loss measurements, electrochemical polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), metallurgical research microscopy (MRM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were used to assess the effectiveness of corrosion inhibition. BHD extract showed a maximum corrosion inhibition efficiency (IE) of 86.58% and the maximum charge transfer resistance (Rct) of 308 Ω cm2 was recorded for 6% concentration at 25 °C. This research study was carried out at 25, 35 and 45 °C. The study revealed that BHD is an excellent green corrosion inhibitor.
Community-Based Approaches to Respond to Epidemics and Natural Disasters in Coastal Ecuador
Authors: Díaz Avriel , Jeffery Andrew , Cedeño Ismelda , Pallaroso Yessenia , Jaramillo Gloria , Mera Rodriguez Blas , Wonsey Breana , Zambrano Margarita , Cedeño Rodriguez David
Published: December 2024

Effective disaster response starts well before the disaster strikes. International aid, research, and recovery work must involve collaborations in which partners are working together at every stage to co-develop and co-create research that can help inform decision-making and establish sustainable programming and prevention initiatives. These partnerships require consistent engagement with community leaders, collaboration across levels of government, and comprehensive team training. Established channels for fundraising are essential for an organization to succeed in the face of chaotic disaster conditions. In this case study, we share our experience with Walking Palms Global Health (WPGH), a non-profit organization serving the communities of Bahía de Caráquez, Ecuador. Through WPGH, we continue to navigate disaster relief and recovery and foment well-being in our community. Our team has worked in the field during two emerging disease outbreaks, extreme weather events, and natural disasters, leading emergency relief efforts, and collaborating with local stakeholders and international institutions to implement holistic, long-term public health research and programming alongside partner communities.
Funding for Equitable Infectious Disease Research and Development
Authors: Mwoka Meggie
Published: December 2024

Research and development (R&D) are critical to develop effective solutions to address the prevention, control, elimination, and even eradication of infectious diseases globally. Financing global health and infectious diseases research is complex. It involves diverse and overlapping sources of funding; multiple recipients and mechanisms of funding; limited coordination, and lack of comprehensive data and impact assessment. Public funding for neglected diseases mainly comes from high income governments and multilateral organizations. Domestic contribution by most LMICs governments to R&D remains low and reliant on external funding from HICs. As a result, funding priorities may not always be aligned to country priorities.

Funding for research and development of infectious diseases has largely focused on HIV, TB and malaria, however with the pandemic, there is increasing focus on pandemic preparedness and response, and platform technologies for vaccine delivery and general diagnostics. Several initiatives have been developed over the years to address gaps in the research funding landscape such as establishment of public private partnerships including product development partnerships.

Shifting disease burdens and demographic changes, re-emergence and emergence of epidemic prone diseases in the face of climate change and a high globalized world, is impacting current and future approaches to infectious disease research and thus the funding priorities. Advancements have been made in establishing research institutions especially in LMICs in collaboration with HICs partners. However systemic challenges persist at institutional, political and global level limiting the growth of research and development especially in LMICs. Addressing these challenges at domestic level will require governments to take on greater responsibility towards investments in research, while leveraging external partnerships to strengthen and sustain relevant research and development that meets country and global needs.
Foundations and Future Directions of Global Health Communication
Authors: Adam Maya , Gates Jennifer , Mbewu Nokwanele , Bärnighausen Till
Published: December 2024

Globally, lack of equitable access to easy-to-understand health information leaves many people poorly equipped to understand their health—and vulnerable to misinformation. In response to this need, health communication specialists must develop innovative, theory-driven approaches to engaging diverse populations with compelling messages. As we develop our approaches to health communication, we must address the needs of our audience, taking into account their education, language, literacy level, or cultural affiliations. If our goal is to reach the broadest spectrum of people worldwide, the guiding question for anyone designing global health messages should be: How do we make science-based health messages accessible to diverse, global audiences, some of whom rarely seek out health information through traditional public health platforms? In this chapter, we will explore the need for global health communication, some basic theoretical foundations of health communication, and recent innovations in this arena. We hope you will feel our passion for this exciting field and consider building it into your career. Helping our fellow global citizens to be engaged and informed participants in the care of their health is a critical step towards improving health outcomes. This is the primary goal of effective global health communication.
Collective Learning: Power and Trust in Partnerships in the 3D Program for Girls and Women in Rural Pune District, India
Authors: Nowrojee Sia , Gupte Manisha
Published: December 2024

This chapter describes lessons learned through the partnerships jointly facilitated by the 3D Program for Girls and Women and Mahila Sarvangeen Utkarsh Mandal (MASUM) in rural Pune District, India, from 2017 to 2021. The analysis is done from our different perspectives, as one partner based in India and the other in the United States. We describe our process of joint learning as we navigated our own North-South partnership and other multi-sectoral partnerships; advanced gender equality by putting girls and women at the center of partnerships and decision-making; held those in power accountable to protect the rights of girls and women; adapted through COVID-19; and worked together intentionally on different ‘sides’ of our partnership. We explore power and trust within our own partnership and in the other partnerships we facilitated to address social determinants of health and advance gender equality. We highlight how different priorities and needs among stakeholders enriched the process when power differentials were managed in a spirit of trust and camaraderie, within a process of identifying and working towards shared commitments. Based on this analysis, we share lessons we learned and key tenets for global health and international development partnerships.
Challenges of Earthquake and Micro-Earthquake Monitoring in Sri Lanka
Authors: Matsunami Koji , Sassa Kyoji , Weerasinghe Ranjan , Munasinghe Tania , Doan Loi
Published: December 2024

Site amplification effects of Aranayake landslide area in Sri Lanka are analyzed using records observed by a wide dynamic-range earthquake motion array with soil- and rock-site stations. We find that the rock site on the mountain ridge does not have the same response as the rock site at the foot of mountain, which has a characteristic frequency-dependent site effect. The relative amplification of the mountain ridge rock site to the mountain foot rock site is nearly 1.0 at frequencies of 2 < f < 6 Hz, having a peak of 2 or more at 6 to 8 Hz, that gradually decreases with increasing frequency, and becomes less than 1 above 10 Hz. On the land slide slope in Aranayake, clear resonant vibration with a frequency of nearly 12 Hz and an amplification of about 20 times is found from the amplification analysis of the main part of the S-wave. The vibration is excited immediately after P-wave arrival and continues to S-wave coda. Particle motions of a 12-Hz component in main portion of the S-wave show that the vibration is almost horizontal, and that its predominant direction nearly matches the landslide axis, but gradually changes with time according to the direction of stress free. From the survey of seismic activity in Aranayake landslide area, it is determined that microearthquakes with Ts-p < 1.0 s and the velocity magnitude 2 < M < 3 occur several ten times a month. The landslide slope is frequently attacked by such microearthquakes, and is shaken by the 12-Hz resonant vibration.
Poethical Force: Muriel Pic, Claudia Rankine, Rosa Alcalá
Authors: Mills Philip
Published: December 2024

It might seem like the focus on poetic documents in Chap. 6 neglects an important part of poetic production, and possibly the part that Henri Meschonnic is thinking of when he argues that any poem is the mutual transformation of forms of language and forms of life, namely the lyrical. How does the ‘objective’ dimension of documents relate to the ‘subjective’ lyric experience? As I will argue in this chapter, the opposition between documentary and lyric poetry is an artificial one that has been reinforced, in France, by the so-called war between the literalist and the lyric poets that Olivier Cadiot describes. Poetic documents reveal a documentary nature of poetry in which the account of a personal, subjective experience becomes intersubjective—shared and sharable. This documentary poetry therefore becomes a space for the lyrical and I will explore how it combines the ethical (as transformation of a form of life) and the poetic (as transformation of a form of language) in a common task.
Translations on Martyrdom During the Early Modern Persecution of Christians in Japan
Authors: Triplett Katja
Published: December 2024

Das Kapitel untersucht die Entwicklung sprachlicher und kultureller Übersetzungen des Konzepts des Martyriums in Japan. Das Martyrium erfuhr im Katholizismus in Europa im 16. und 17. Jahrhundert eine Renaissance, sodass frühneuzeitliche jesuitische Japanischübersetzungen diesem Thema viele Seiten widmen, insbesondere in Hinblick auf die Verfolgung von Missionaren und Konvertiten in Japan. Der Erfolg der Mission ist in der klaren epistemischen Unterscheidung des katholischen Glaubens im Gegensatz zu traditionellen japanischen Religionen, vor allem dem Buddhismus zu sehen. Eine Möglichkeit, die Grenzen zwischen den ‚wahren‘ und den ‚falschen‘ Religionen zu markieren, bestand darin, ‚unzweideutige‘ Begriffe zu prägen. Als die japanischen Behörden beschlossen die christliche Religion zu verbieten, konnten Katholiken allerdings unter anderem durch die Verwendung solcher Begriffe aufgespürt werden.
Atahualpa versus Pizarro und Valverde, November 1532. Zur Übersetzung einer politischen Kommunikationssituation der kolonialen Eroberung Amerikas in historiographischen und enzyklopädischen Werken der Frühen Neuzeit (16.–18. Jahrhundert)
Authors: Lüsebrink Hans-Jürgen
Published: December 2024

The chapter is devoted to an event of lasting world-historical significance in all its translation-related facets and problems, which go hand in hand with external perception and descriptions from an outside perspective. The encounter between the Inca ruler Atahualpa and the Spanish conquistador Franzisco Pizarro in the Peruvian city of Cajamarca in 1532 can be considered a transcultural interaction and communication event sui generis. In contemporary and later accounts, it was subject to a range of different descriptions and interpretations in which translations played an important role. The chapter sheds light on the individual translation processes, dynamics, intentions, and competences in minute detail.
Revisiting the effects of cigarette taxation on smoking outcomes
Authors: Shrestha Vinish
Published: December 2024

This study reassesses the efficacy of cigarette taxation in curtailing smoking by leveraging recent advancements in the difference-in-differences (DiD) literature to account for heterogeneous treatment effects. Using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Selected Metropolitan/Micropolitan Area Risk Trend (BRFSS SMART) for the sample periods 2004-2010 and 2015-2020, the study reveals three key findings. Firstly, the TWFE estimate for the 2004-2010 sample is only 48% of the average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) estimate obtained through the DiD framework. Secondly, event-study-type estimates demonstrate a gradual increase in magnitude following the treatment year, highlighting dynamic treatment effects overlooked by the TWFE estimate. Third, the ATT estimate for the 2015-2020 sample is approximately 66% of the ATT estimate for the 2004-2010 sample. Overall, the study underscores the potential bias toward zero in elasticity estimates when relying solely on TWFE models.
Simulation training with haptic feedback of instrument vibrations reduces resident workload during live robot-assisted sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Gomez Ernest D. , Husin Haliza Mat , Dumon Kristoffel R. , Williams Noel N. , Kuchenbecker Katherine J.
Published: December 2024

Background

New surgeons experience heavy workload during robot-assisted surgery partially because they must use vision to compensate for the lack of haptic feedback. We hypothesize that providing realistic haptic feedback during dry-lab simulation training may accelerate learning and reduce workload during subsequent surgery on patients.

Methods

We conducted a single-blinded study with 12 general surgery residents (third and seventh post-graduate year, PGY) randomized into haptic and control groups. Participants performed five simulated bariatric surgeries on a custom inanimate simulator followed by live robot-assisted sleeve gastrectomies (RASGs) using da Vinci robots. The haptic group received naturalistic haptic feedback of instrument vibrations during their first four simulated procedures. Participants completed pre-/post-procedure STAI and post-procedure NASA-TLX questionnaires in both simulation and the operating room (OR).

Results

Higher PGY level (simulation: p < 0.001, OR p = 0.004), shorter operative time (simulation: p < 0.001, OR p = 0.003), and lower pre-procedure STAI (simulation: p = 0.003, OR p < 0.001) were significantly associated with lower self-reported overall workload in both operative settings; PGY-7 s reported about 10% lower workload than PGY-3 s. The haptic group had significantly lower overall covariate-adjusted NASA-TLX during the fourth (p = 0.03) and fifth (p = 0.04) simulated procedures and across all OR procedures (p = 0.047), though not for only the first three OR procedures. Haptic feedback reduced physical demand (simulation: p < 0.001, OR p = 0.001) and increased perceived performance (simulation: p = 0.031, OR p < 0.001) in both settings.

Conclusion

Haptic feedback of instrument vibrations provided during robotic surgical simulation reduces trainee workload during both simulation and live OR cases. The implications of workload reduction and its potential effects on patient safety warrant further investigation.
Stress relaxation rates of myocardium from failing and non-failing hearts
Authors: Gionet-Gonzales Marissa , Gathman Gianna , Rosas Jonah , Kunisaki Kyle Y. , Inocencio Dominique Gabriele P. , Hakami Niki , Milburn Gregory N. , Pitenis Angela A. , Campbell Kenneth S. , Pruitt Beth L. , Stowers Ryan S.
Published: December 2024

The heart is a dynamic pump whose function is influenced by its mechanical properties. The viscoelastic properties of the heart, i.e., its ability to exhibit both elastic and viscous characteristics upon deformation, influence cardiac function. Viscoelastic properties change during heart failure (HF), but direct measurements of failing and non-failing myocardial tissue stress relaxation under constant displacement are lacking. Further, how consequences of tissue remodeling, such as fibrosis and fat accumulation, alter the stress relaxation remains unknown. To address this gap, we conducted stress relaxation tests on porcine myocardial tissue to establish baseline properties of cardiac tissue. We found porcine myocardial tissue to be fast relaxing, characterized by stress relaxation tests on both a rheometer and microindenter. We then measured human left ventricle (LV) epicardium and endocardium tissue from non-failing, ischemic HF and non-ischemic HF patients by microindentation. Analyzing by patient groups, we found that ischemic HF samples had slower stress relaxation than non-failing endocardium. Categorizing the data by stress relaxation times, we found that slower stress relaxing tissues were correlated with increased collagen deposition and increased α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) stress fibers, a marker of fibrosis and cardiac fibroblast activation, respectively. In the epicardium, analyzing by patient groups, we found that ischemic HF had faster stress relaxation than non-ischemic HF and non-failing. When categorizing by stress relaxation times, we found that faster stress relaxation correlated with Oil Red O staining, a marker for adipose tissue. These data show that changes in stress relaxation vary across the different layers of the heart during ischemic versus non-ischemic HF. These findings reveal how the viscoelasticity of the heart changes, which will lead to better modeling of cardiac mechanics for in vitro and in silico HF models.
Summer diet preferences of a declining steppe bird as revealed by DNA metabarcoding
Authors: González del Portillo David , Cabodevilla Xabier , Arroyo Beatriz , Morales Manuel B.
Published: December 2024

Agricultural intensification is one of the main threats to steppe bird populations, leading to habitat degradation and the reduction of food resources. The Little Bustard (Tetrax tetrax), a highly endangered bird species in Europe, is particularly vulnerable to the loss of seminatural habitats containing such resources. Understanding its diet composition is crucial for the development of effective conservation strategies. Here, we describe Little Bustard diet composition and preferences during summer, which includes the chick rearing period, using DNA metabarcoding of faeces. Diet quality at this stage is critical for the adults to face reproduction costs (e.g. male display or parental investment by females) and for juveniles to ensure their survival and recruitment. Additionally, we identified arthropod taxa selected or avoided by Little Bustards by comparing the sequencing results with the estimated availability of these taxa in the study area (obtained from pitfall traps and sweep netting). Our findings suggest that arthropods are more relevant than plants in Little Bustard diet in this period and inform about the relevance of wild vs cultivated species in their diet. Among arthropods, the most commonly detected orders were Orthoptera, Coleoptera, and Lepidoptera, while the most consumed plant families were Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Brassicaceae. The analyses of arthropod preferences showed that Little Bustards select Orthoptera, Lepidoptera, Hemiptera, and Dermaptera among insects and avoid Hymenoptera and Aranea. Our results reinforce the importance of natural vegetation patches as feeding habitats, but also of cultivated habitats like rain-fed alfalfa, if managed to resemble natural grasslands, where Little Bustards can find the arthropods needed.
Natural hydrous sulphate minerals from Martian analogue area for sequestration of metal ions of nuclear significance
Authors: Parab Harshala , Sirvi Rahul , Chheda Riti , Sengupta Pranesh , Kumar Sangita D. , Bhui Uttam K.
Published: December 2024

Naturally occurring hydrous sulphate minerals bearing rock, sampled from a Martian analogue area, Kachchh, India was investigated for sequestration of metal ions of nuclear significance in view of waste management applications. Structural analyses revealed the presence of alunite group minerals (such as hydronium jarosite, alunite, natroalunite) along with a phyllosilicate mineral—kaolinite in the sample. Sorption performance assessment in batch mode for cesium (Cs) demonstrated the influence of initial sorbate concentration and solution pH on the uptake of metal ions. Equilibrium sorption data upon correlation with the theoretical isotherms showed better agreement with Langmuir model with a monalayer sorption capacity of 26.4 mg g−1 for Cs. Maximum uptake of metal ions in acidic pH is a signature of involvement of structural ions in the sorption process. EDXRF analysis demonstrated the loading of sorbate ions on the surface of sorbent after sorption. The studies highlight that the cation retention potential of naturally available hydrous sulphate minerals bearing rock could be instrumental for possible application of the material as barrier matrix to immobilize metal ions of nuclear importance in acidic conditions.
The changing world dynamics of research performance
Authors: Marhl Marko , Markovič Rene , Grubelnik Vladimir , Perc Matjaž
Published: December 2024

In recent years, a notable diversification in the geographical representation of the World’s top universities could be observed. Chinese universities play an increasingly prominent role in these rankings, thus indicating that we might be in the midst of a regional shift in academic performance. To explore this dynamics, we analyze seven years’ worth of data used for university rankings by academic subjects from the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU). We focus on China, Europe, the USA, and other global regions of the world. We find that China has indeed seen an unprecedented growth in Engineering and Life Sciences research, positioning itself rather firmly as a leader in these fields. Conversely, the USA leads in the Social Sciences, while Europe excels in Geography, Ecology, Public and Business Administration, and Pharmacy. Other regions worldwide stand out in Transportation Science, Nursing, and Hospitality & Tourism Management. These results reveal the evolving landscape of global academic research, highlighting regional strengths and emerging world trends in subject-specific excellence.
Learning distribution-free anchored linear structural equation models in the presence of measurement error
Authors: Chung Junhyoung , Ahn Youngmin , Shin Donguk , Park Gunwoong
Published: December 2024

This study tackles the challenge of identifiability in distribution-free anchored linear structural equation models (SEMs), where the observed variables are imperfect measures for the target variables, and the error distributions are not restricted to being Gaussian. It introduces the geometry-faithfulness assumption, ensuring that partial correlations serve as direct indicators of d-separation/connection. The study establishes the identifiability of distribution-free anchored linear SEMs under the same identifiability conditions for anchored Gaussian linear SEMs, but by replacing the faithfulness assumption with the geometry-faithfulness assumption. Moreover, it shows that the learning algorithm leveraging the PC algorithm with Fisher’s z-test, originally designed for anchored Gaussian linear SEMs, remains applicable and effective for distribution-free anchored linear SEMs. It also provides statistical guarantees for the proposed algorithm, including the strong geometry-faithfulness assumption, ensuring its consistency. These theoretical contributions are validated through extensive numerical experiments and the analysis of real galaxy data.
Network synchronizability enhancement via adding antagonistic interactions
Authors: Song Yue , Liu Xiaoqin , Wang Dingmei , Gao Pengfei , Xue Mengqi
Published: December 2024

We discover a “less-is-more” effect that adding local antagonistic interactions (negative edge weights) can enhance the overall synchronizability of a dynamical network system. To explain this seemingly counterintuitive phenomenon, a condition is established to identify those edges the weight reduction of which improves the synchronizability index of the underlying network. We further reveal that this condition can be interpreted from the perspective of resistance distance and network community structure. The obtained result is also verified via numerical experiments on a 14-node network and a 118-node network. Our finding brings new thoughts and inspirations to the future directions of optimal network design problems.
Unified regularity measures for sample-wise learning and generalization
Authors: Zhang Chi , Yuan Meng , Ma Xiaoning , Liu Yu , Lu Haoang , Wang Le , Su Yuanqi , Liu Yuehu
Published: December 2024

Fundamental machine learning theory shows that different samples contribute unequally to both the learning and testing processes. Recent studies on deep neural networks (DNNs) suggest that such sample differences are rooted in the distribution of intrinsic pattern information, namely sample regularity. Motivated by recent discoveries in network memorization and generalization, we propose a pair of sample regularity measures with a formulation-consistent representation for both processes. Specifically, the cumulative binary training/generalizing loss (CBTL/CBGL), the cumulative number of correct classifications of the training/test sample within the training phase, is proposed to quantify the stability in the memorization-generalization process, while forgetting/mal-generalizing events (ForEvents/MgEvents), i.e., the misclassification of previously learned or generalized samples, are utilized to represent the uncertainty of sample regularity with respect to optimization dynamics. The effectiveness and robustness of the proposed approaches for mini-batch stochastic gradient descent (SGD) optimization are validated through sample-wise analyses. Further training/test sample selection applications show that the proposed measures, which share the unified computing procedure, could benefit both tasks.
Between Heaven and Earth: A Political and Ideological Dilemma of the Belarusian Orthodox Church before and since the Belarusian Crisis
Authors: Laine Veera , Nizhnikau Ryhor
Published: December 2024

This article discusses the evolution of the Belarusian Orthodox Church's (BOC) role and influence in the society, its relationship with the state, and the internal schisms within the Church leadership. Belarusian politics and society has traditionally been Russian-oriented. Close linguistic and cultural relations with Russia were embedded in the official ideology of Belarusian state and national building policies, which from the onset singled out the ideas of Slavic unity and Belarus's special role in the Eastern Slavic civilization. In this regard, the BOC was an element of two machineries, the objectives of which growingly drifted apart. Aliaksandr Lukashenka's regime viewed the BOC as an important partner of the state and a control mechanism over the society. Russia, which lacked a well-defined policy of attraction towards Belarusian society, in turn mostly relied on the regime and domestic social institutions, specifically the BOC, in maintaining its influence. The two crises, regional (2014) and domestic (2020), significantly upended the “in-between” position of the BOC and raise questions about its ideational and institutional cohesion. Moreover, officially as an autonomous Exarchate functioning under the Moscow Patriarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC), the BOC has had to balance its position within the ROC that during this time has sought stronger status abroad. The relationship between BOC and ROC leadership grew more complex after the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and after Russia's invasion to Ukraine in 2022, when the ROC leadership chose to support the political regime. The open conflict between the national, now autocephalic Ukrainian Orthodox Church and Moscow Patriarchate have revealed the intra-Orthodox (post-)colonialism in the region but also further complicated the ways the BOC can position itself within the Belarusian society.
The Diversity of Airborne Bacteria Over the Tibet Plateau Decreased by Taklimakan Dust
Authors: Xue Fanli , Huang Zhongwei , Huo Xuefei , Dong Qingqing , Li Zhengpeng , Gu Qianqing
Published: December 2024

Taklimakan dust is known to be transported over long distances to the Tibetan Plateau, significantly impacting its climates and ecosystems. However, information on how dust aerosols affect airborne microorganisms is still lacking. In the summer of 2019, we simultaneously collected air samples from the Tibetan Plateau (Ali) and the Taklimakan Desert (Minfeng and Tazhong) and analyzed them using high‐throughput DNA sequencing techniques. We found that the diversity of airborne bacteria decreased by 42.2% during dust events. Taklimakan dust contributed 85.4% ± 2.1% of airborne bacteria on the Plateau. Moreover, the potential pathogens and bacterial ice nuclei (IN) in the Plateau increased by 16.4% and 73.8%, respectively. Our study provides novel insights into the impact of dust‐coated bacteria on the climate and ecosystem across the Tibetan Plateau.