bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geochemistry of the Guadalupian - Lopingian Carbonate Rocks from the NE Sichuan Basin, China: Implications for Paleo-oceanic Environment and Provenance
Authors: Yao Shengyang , Mou Chuanlong , Zhou Gang , Wang Qiyu , Wang Xiuping , Ren Peng , Zan Bowen
Published: September 2023

The Dongwu Movement (including the eruption of the Emeishan Large Igneous Province (ELIP) ) , as the last part of the Hercynian cycle in the Yangtze region is an essential event between the Guadalupian and Lopingian, which has significant implications for the Paleo-oceanic environment and Paleoclimate of the area. To study the changes in the sedimentary environment in the Guadalupian and Lopingian, the Zhenba section was selected to analyze trace elements and rare earth elements. Trace elements and rare earth elements indicate that in the Guadalupian, the limestone samples had prominent typical shallow-water seawater deposition characteristics and were less affected by terrigenous detritus, which was an arid oxidation environment (Sr/Cu ranges from 4 to 1381; Rb/Sr value is low; δCe<1, Ceanom<-0.1; Er/Nd ranges from 0.1 to 0.27; Y/Ho ranges from 44 to 72), while in the Lopingian, the limestone samples were more affected by terrigenous detritus, which was a humid climate with the weak oxidation-reduction environment (Sr/Cu ranges from 1 to 656; Rb/Sr value is high; δCe tends to 1, Ceanom greater than and close to -0.1; Er/Nd<0.1; Y/Ho ranges from 26 to 44). The geochemical diagrams of TiO2-Al2O3, Al2O3-REE, La-Th-Sc, Th-Co-Zr/10, Th-Sc-Zr/10 and 87Sr/ 86Sr of the sample indicate that the terrigenous detrites of the sample should mainly come from the South Qinling active continental margin, rather than the weathering of Emeishan basalt. Acid bentonite should come from the Paleo-Tethys island arc or the island arc formed by the subduction of the South China Plate to the North China Plate, rather than ELIP. These evidences support the view that the North China Plate may have collided with the South China Plate in the middle to late Wujiaping.
Merger to monopoly in a vertically differentiated duopoly with positional effects
Authors: Skartados Panagiotis , Zacharias Eleftherios
Published: September 2023

We provide an alternative behavioral approach to the well-known argument that a merger to monopoly is desirable only when it is accommodated by a (supply-side) technology transfer and cost reduction. When consumers are subject to positional effects, like status or envy, there are instances where a merger to monopoly may be welfare-enhancing due to a (demand-side) utility-increasing argument.
JEL Classification: L11; D11; D42.
Risk Factors for Pyogenic Liver Abscess Caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lyu Yunxiao , Wang Bin
Published: September 2023

Background: Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae can vary in severity, and several risk factors for the development of PLA have been implicated. However, few studies to date have explored these risk factors.
Methods: In this retrospective study spanning from February 2013 to December 2022, we investigated patients with PLA caused by K. pneumoniae infection. Using logistic regression analysis, we sought to identify factors associated with positive blood culture, septic shock, and intensive care unit (ICU) admission.
Results: The study involved 200 patients. We found that an elevated procalcitonin (PCT) level (odds ratio [OR]: 1.02, p = 0.03), higher glucose (GLU) level (OR: 1.13, p = 0.03), and lower total cholesterol (TC) level (OR: 0.43, p = 0.01) were associated with a higher likelihood of positive blood bacteriological culture. Additionally, an increased PCT level (OR: 1.03, p = 0.02) and lower TC level (OR: 0.25, p < 0.01) were associated with an elevated risk of septic shock. Furthermore, a higher PCT level (OR: 1.04, p < 0.01) was associated with a higher probability of ICU admission.
Conclusion: In patients with PLA caused by K. pneumoniae, the PCT, GLU, and TC levels were found to be associated with positive blood culture, septic shock, and ICU admission.
Kink Waves in Twisted and Expanding Magnetic Tubes
Authors: Ruderman M. S. , Petrukhin N. S. , Petrukhin N.S.
Published: September 2023

We study kink and fluting waves in expanding and twisted magnetic-flux tubes. We use the thin-tube and zero-beta plasma approximations. The equilibrium magnetic field is force-free with a constant proportionality coefficient between the electrical current and magnetic field. We derive the equation governing the kink and fluting wave in a tube. Using this equation we study the propagation of kink waves in a particular case of a magnetic tube homogeneous in the axial direction. We show that while there is only one propagating kink wave with the phase speed equal to the kink speed in an untwisted tube, in a twisted tube there are two wave modes, accelerated and decelerated. The phase speed of the accelerated wave exceeds the kink speed, while the phase speed of the decelerated wave is less than the kink speed. We also show that the standing modes are defined by the same eigenvalue problem as that in the case of an untwisted tube. Hence, the frequencies of the standing wave modes are not affected by the twist. This implies that the seismological results based on the observation of the standing wave mode frequencies remain valid when the twist is taken into account. The only effect of twist is the variation of the direction of polarisation of the coronal magnetic loop displacement along the loop. As a result an apparent node can be detected near the loop apex if only one component of the loop displacement is observed. This can lead to a wrong conclusion that the observed coronal loop kink oscillation was the first overtone while in fact it was the fundamental mode.
Preoperative Fibrinogen Predicting the Occurrence of Ovarian Torsion in Children
Authors: Shen Qiyang , Zhang Lijie , Liu Xingyu , Han Qi , Zhou Kai , Li Tao , Zhou Jianfeng
Published: September 2023

Background: Ovarian torsion (OT) is a rare occurrence in the pediatric population, characterized by a wide range of clinical manifestations, and a delayed diagnosis can have a profound impact on fertility. Although lower abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are commonly associated with OT, these presentations are predominantly atypical. Moreover, diagnosing OT in children poses a significant challenge due to the often unreliable expression of symptoms in this population. It is imperative to analyze the clinical characteristics of OT in children and adolescents and identify specific indicators in order to enhance the promptness and precision of preoperative OT diagnosis.
Methods: Our study encompassed all female individuals (<18 years old) who were suspected of OT and underwent surgical intervention from August 2006 to February 2023. Pertinent clinical and laboratory information was gathered from the patients, and subsequently, they were categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of torsion. We conducted univariate significance analysis, multivariate logistic regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to ascertain autonomous factors that could forecast OT in pediatric patients.
Result: The findings revealed that OT transpired in 160 (33.6%) out of the 475 female subjects included in our study. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis of the gathered data revealed three risk factors that were significantly linked to OT : Body temperature [1.5464 (1.3838, 1.7283), P = 1.5099e-14]; AFR [1.2238 (1.0857, 1.3795), P = 0.0009]; Fibrinogen [4.4145 (2.1538, 9.048), P = 0.0001]. The effectiveness of the three independent impact factors was examined using ROC curves. The result is body temperature (ROC 1, AUC = 0.6108, CI: 0.5487-0.6729), AFR (ROC 2, AUC = 0.5794, CI: 0.5132-0.6456) and fibrinogen (ROC 3, AUC = 0.7306, CI: 0.6649-0.7962). The area under the curve of the three independent predictors were compared to determine whether there was a difference in predictive efficacy. The results showed that the predictive efficacy of fibrinogen was significantly higher than that of body temperature and AFR (ROC1/ROC2: P = 0.4571>0.05, ROC1/ROC3: P = 0.6408>0.05, ROC2/ROC3: P = 0.0002<0.05).
Conclusions: Our study suggests that fibrinogen can be an independent predictor of OT in girls.
Machine learning-based identification of ferroptosis-related biomarkers in osteoarthritis
Authors: Jin Yingchao , Zhang Hua
Published: September 2023

Background
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease and a major cause of chronic disability in elderly individuals. OA is characterized by degeneration of articular cartilage, structural changes in the subchondral bone structure, and formation of bony encumbrances, with the main clinical manifestations being joint swelling, pain, stiffness, deformity, and limited mobility. Ferroptosis is a newly identified form of lipid peroxidation-induced cell death. In recent years, several studies have shown that the pathological process of OA is related to ferroptosis.
Objective
The focus of this work was to identify and validate ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) differentially expressed in osteoarthritis patients and to investigate potential molecular mechanisms.
Methods
The GSE98918 data were downloaded from the GEO database as the training set, and the GSE51588 data were used as the validation set. The differential gene expression of the training set was analyzed using R software and the ferroptosis-related differentially expressed genes. Then, machine learning algorithms were applied to build LASSO regression models and support vector machine models. After that, their intersection genes were used as feature genes to draw receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves, and the resulting feature genes were validated using the validation set. In addition, the expression profiles of osteoarthritis were analyzed by immune cell infiltration, and the co-expression correlation between the characterized genes and immune cells was constructed.
CONCLUSION
KLF2 and DAZAP1 may serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers for OA. Meanwhile, KLF2 and DAZAP1 may be ferroptosis-related in OA, which provides insights for the development of new therapeutic approaches for OA.
Effect of ultrasound and enzymatic hydrolysis on the physicochemical and functional properties of different galactomannan gums
Authors: Busch Veronica , Pepa Lorena , Buera Pilar , Pannizzolo Luis , Ferreira Fernando
Published: September 2023

Galactomannans are polysaccharides commonly extracted from the endosperm of various leguminous seeds, exhibiting variations in their man/gal ratio based on their botanical origin. These gums are highly valued for their biodegradability and excellent stability. However, their applications have been limited due to their high viscosity and molecular weight. In this study, we explore the enzymatic and ultrasound depolymerization of galactomannans, resulting in the production of freeze-dried hydrolysates that are subsequently characterized. The hydrolysis process leads to a decrease in viscosity and molecular weight, accompanied by a noticeable increase in polydispersity through enzymatic treatment. Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) analysis indicates the generation of subunits consisting of nine or eight members. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis demonstrates no significant changes in functional groups following ultrasound hydrolysis. Furthermore, consistent with the TLC results, the hydrolysates display reactivity towards non-enzymatic browning (NEB), yielding intermediate products with limited browning development.This study expands, diversifies, and enhances the potential applications of these galactomannans in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries.
Association between trabecular bone score and type 1 diabetes: A meta-analysis of cross-sectional study
Authors: Pan Runzhou , Zhang Yan , Zhao Yongcai
Published: September 2023

Background: Bone fragility is a recognized complication of Type 1 diabetes(T1D). Thus, lower trabecular bone score(TBS) measurements in T1D patients can be predicted. However, the results of current studies on TBS in patients with T1D are inconsistent. In this context, the present study aimed to test the hypothesis that T1D is associated with lower TBS through a meta-analysis.
Methods: An electronic search of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Embase and Web of science databases to identify studies related to TBS and T1D, supplemented by an additional manual check of the reference list of relevant original and review articles. All data was analyzed using a random effects model. Results were compared using standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). P≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Review Manager 5.4 software and Stata 17.0 software were used for statistical analysis.
Results: Seven cross-sectional studies involving 848 participants were included. TBS was lower in T1D patients than in healthy controls on random effects analysis, with no heterogeneity(SMD =-0.39, 95%CI [-0.53, -0.24], P < 0.001; I2=0%). In addition, by subgroup analysis, T1D patients were strongly associated with reduced TBS in different regions and age groups, and the results were independent of covariate adjustment.
Conclusion: This study showed that TBS was lower in patients with T1D than in healthy individuals with normal blood glucose levels, suggesting that TBS may be a useful measure to assess fracture risk in T1D.
Investigating flight ability and dispersal distance of Cydia pomonella moth in northeast China to assess the side effects of X-ray Irradiation
Authors: Huang Sheng-Wang , Zhang Jing-Han , Wei Zi-Han , Yang Xian-Ming , Wang Xing-Ya , Yang Xue-Qing
Published: September 2023

The codling moth Cydia pomonella (L.) is a highly destructive pest that causes considerable damage to pome fruits and walnuts worldwide. In Canada, the sterile insect technique (SIT) has proven to be an effective method for controlling C. pomonella population. However, the sterilization process, which involves exposing male moths to gamma radiation or X-rays, may result in a decrease in their mating competitiveness, likely due to a decline in their flight capacity. The impact of X-ray irradiation on the flight ability of sterilized male C. pomonella remains uncertain. In this study, we first examined the flight rhythm of male and female adults of C. pomonella. The findings revealed a significant variations in the average flight speed of both male and female moths at different stages of maturity, with females exhibiting longer flight durations and distances. Since male moths are primarily utilized in SIT programs, we focused on assessing the effect of irradiation on the flight performance of 3-day-old male moths, as they demonstrated the longest flight distance. The results indicated a significant decrease in flight performance, including flight distance, duration, and average speed, among males exposed to radiation at a dose from 183 Gy to 366 Gy. Moreover, an irradiation dose of 366 Gy caused wing deformities, limiting the dispersal distance of moths in orchards according to the mark-and-recapture assay. Further quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis revealed down-regulation of flight-related genes such as flightin, myosin heavy chain, and distal-lessfollowing radiation exposure. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that X-ray irradiation at a radiation dose higher than 183 Gy adversely affects the flight ability of male C. pomonella adults. These insights not only enhance our understanding of how radiation sterilization diminishes the mating competitiveness of male moths but also contribute to the development and improvement of SIT practices for the effective control of C. pomonella.
Clinical Significance of Perioperative Hyperglycemia in Radical Gastrectomy Among Non- diabetic Patients: Evidence for Better Perioperative Glucose Management in Different Anastomotic Methods
Authors: Yu Zhiqiang , Mei Dianfeng , Mao Chenchen , Jiang Zhixuan , Shao Jiancan , Cai Wentao , Zheng Jingwei , Zhu Shanli , Xue Xiangyang , Shen Xian
Published: September 2023

Background: Uncontrolled perioperative hyperglycemia (HG) in patients undergoing surgery was determined as a risk factor for postoperative complications. Few studies have focused on the effects of HG in gastric cancer patients undergoing different anastomotic methods after radical gastrectomy.
Methods:
We performed a double-institutional dataset study involving 811 patients who had undergone radical gastrectomy between 2014 and 2017. Patients with diabetes mellitus were excluded. Propensity-score-matching (PSM) analysis was performed to strictly balance the significant variables. The association between any elevated perioperative glucose value (HG≥7 mmol/L) and postoperative complications in patients treated with different anastomotic methods was assessed.
Results: Among the 742 non-diabetic patients with gastric cancer, 100 (13.48%) and 148 (19.95%) experienced preoperative and postoperative HG, respectively. Perioperative HG was not significantly associated with postoperative complications. On comparing the different anastomotic methods, differences in postoperative complication incidence were exclusively identified between postoperative hypoglycemia and HG (20.32% vs. 34.62%, P=0.025) among patients underwent Billroth-I anastomosis. Further logistic regressive analysis found HG to be independently associated with postoperative complications before (odds ratio [OR]:1.989, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.031–3.837, P=0.040) and after (OR:3.341, 95%CI: 1.153–9.685, P=0.026) PSM. Finally, preoperative HG remained a significant predictor of postoperative HG (OR:3.718, 95%CI: 1.673–8.260, P=0.001).
Conclusions: Postoperative HG, rather than preoperative HG, was significantly associated with worse postoperative outcomes in non-diabetic patients who underwent Billroth-I anastomosis after radical gastrectomy. However, preoperative HG was associated with postoperative HG, suggesting that improved preoperative glycemic management may help reduce postoperative hyperglycemic events.
Electrical impedance myography detects dystrophin-related muscle changes in mdx mice
Authors: Hiyoshi Tetsuaki , Zhao Fuqiang , Baba Rina , Hirakawa Takeshi , Kuboki Ryosuke , Suzuki Kazunori , Tomimatsu Yoshiro , O’Donnell Patricio , Han Steve , Zach Neta , Nakashima Masato
Published: September 2023

Background
The lack of functional dystrophin protein in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) causes chronic skeletal muscle inflammation and degeneration. Therefore, the restoration of functional dystrophin levels is a fundamental approach for DMD therapy. Electrical impedance myography (EIM) is an emerging tool that provides noninvasive monitoring of muscle conditions and has been suggested as a treatment response biomarker in diverse indications. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of skeletal muscles has become a standard measurement in clinical trials for DMD, EIM offers distinct advantages, such as portability, user-friendliness, and reduced cost, allowing for remote monitoring of disease progression or response to therapy. To investigate the potential of EIM as a biomarker for DMD, we compared longitudinal EIM data with MRI/histopathological data from an X-linked muscular dystrophy (mdx) mouse model of DMD. In addition, we investigated whether EIM could detect dystrophin-related changes in muscles using antisense-mediated exon skipping in mdx mice.
Methods
Longitudinal MRI/ magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) data of muscle T2 and fat, and three EIM parameters with histopathology were obtained from the hindlimb muscles of wild-type (WT) and mdx mice. In the EIM study, a cell-penetrating peptide (Pip9b2) conjugated antisense phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomer (PPMO), designed to induce exon-skipping and restore functional dystrophin production, was administered intravenously to mdx mice.
Results
MRI imaging in mdx mice showed higher T2 intensity at 6 weeks of age in hindlimb muscles compared to WT mice, which decreased at ≥ 9 weeks of age. In contrast, EIM reactance began to decline at 12 weeks of age, with peak reduction at 18 weeks of age in mdx mice. This decline was associated with myofiber atrophy and connective tissue infiltration in the skeletal muscles. Repeated dosing of PPMO (10 mg/kg, 4 times every 2 weeks) in mdx mice led to an increase in muscular dystrophin protein and reversed the decrease in EIM reactance.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that muscle T2 MRI is sensitive to the early inflammatory response associated with dystrophin deficiency, whereas EIM provides a valuable biomarker for the noninvasive monitoring of subsequent changes in skeletal muscle composition. Furthermore, EIM reactance has the potential to monitor dystrophin-deficient muscle abnormalities and their recovery in response to antisense-mediated exon skipping.
Analysis of the efficacy of triple-channel minimally invasive knee arthroscopy in the treatment of popliteal cysts in children
Authors: He Shan , Yang Qining , Kang Jiayu , Zhou Yongwei
Published: September 2023

Background
The purpose of this study was to describe a technique for the treatment of pediatric popliteal cysts with a triple-channel knee arthroscopic approach, with the hypothesis that this technique has good clinical outcomes and a low recurrence rate.
Methods
Retrospective analysis of 14 patients with symptomatic pediatric popliteal cysts treated at our joint surgery center using this minimally invasive technique from December 2017 to December 2020. Arthroscopy was used to adequately enlarge the posterior medial flap opening between the cyst and the joint cavity, and to completely resect the cyst wall. The recurrence of popliteal cysts was examined by MRI at 3 and 12 months after surgery, respectively, and the Rauschning and Lindgren scores were recorded to evaluate the clinical outcome.
Results
A total of 14 children completed the follow-up, including 8 boys and 6 girls, with a mean age of 9.9 ± 1.1 years (5–12 years); 5 cases in the left knee and 9 cases in the right knee; the mean operative time was 19.2 ± 2.7 min (10–25 min); the mean follow-up time was 15.1 ± 2.4 months (12–24 months) There was no intraoperative vascular nerve injury and no incisional exudate infection There was no intraoperative vascular nerve injury and no incisional fluid infection. Postoperative symptoms of the posterior knee disappeared in the children, Rauschning and Lindgren scores improved significantly postoperatively, and no signs of recurrence were found on MRI in all cases.
Conclusions
This study concluded that the use of arthroscopic three-channel minimally invasive technique for the treatment of popliteal cysts in children is effective and safe, and is worthy of clinical promotion.
3- Way coupled urban flood modelling for a part of Chennai City using high-resolution topographic data
Authors: Pradeep C. , Sankar C. P , Thirumalaivasan D. , Kumar K Ajith , Kathiravan K. , Vidyasakar A. , Arunbharathi V.
Published: September 2023

The catastrophic flood events which caused severe damage to life and property over the Chennai region in 2005 and 2015 are considered in this study. The flood inundation extent and flood depth of this events were simulated using a 3-way coupling with MIKE FLOOD. It couples three hydrodynamic models namely MIKE 11 HD, MIKE URBAN (MOUSE), and MIKE 21, which can simulate all the sources of the flood, i.e., riverine, urban and surface runoff. HEC-HMS is used for performing hydrologic simulations. High-resolution LiDAR DEM acquired through Airborne Laser Scanning technology is used for extraction of cross section of rivers, ground level of manholes for stormwater drains and for preparing accurate bathymetry for use in MIKE 21. Flood depths were measured in widespread floodplains of Adyar River after the flood events of 2005 and 2015. Model results are validated with the measured flood depths, performance indices show (R2=0.772 for 2005 and R2=0.883 for 2015) good agreement between them. This study can be used as an effective tool for flood management and flood damage assessments.
Trait discovery for yield, related attributes and quality parameters and identification of potential stable donors for genetic improvement of groundnuts through evaluation of germplasm originated from different countries in two contrasting environments
Authors: Rani Kirti , BC Ajay , Bera Sandip Kumar , Mahatma Mahesh Kumar , Singh Sushmita , K Gangadhara , AL Rathnakumar , Kona Praveen , Kumar Narendra , GA Rajanna
Published: September 2023

The study aimed to analyze a varied collection of 371 germplasm obtained from various countries, with regards to yield-related characteristics, oil, protein, sugar, free amino acids, and total phenolics, in two distinct environments. The purpose was to assess the extent of inherent genotypic diversity and the potential for improving productivity and quality through breeding. The study identified germplasm that exhibited superior and stable performance with two or more desirable traits. Specifically, NRCGs-10366, 10480, 10485, and 10844 were found to be superior in terms of yield (PY), hundred kernel weight (HKW), and seed shape (SHP). NRCG-11390 was identified as superior for yield (PY), protein content, and sugar content. Additionally, NRCGs-12469, 14089, and 16492 were found to be superior for important biochemical traits such as oil, protein, and sugar content. NRCG-11101 was identified as superior for HKW, protein content, and oil content, while NRCGs-11154 and 11164 were found to be superior for HKW, protein content, and sugar content. The study has identified germplasm with a grain protein content exceeding 34% and an oil content ranging from 47% to 48%. Germplasm exhibiting specific traits were identified for their potential utilisation as donors in the groundnut improvement program. The Spanish collection presents a potential source of valuable breeding traits for enhancing groundnut productivity and improving the content of oil, protein, sugar, phenol, and FAA, in various combinations.
Die Eventmarke - eine Marke wie jede andere?
Authors: Brauchbar Birkhäuser Simone , Zingg Olivia
Published: September 2023

Aufgrund eines Rechtsstreits zwischen FIFA und PUMA hatte sich das Bundesgericht im April 2022 mit der Thematik von Eventmarken zu befassen und über die Kernproblematik derer Eintragungsfähigkeit zu befinden. Das Bundesgericht entschied in einem richtungsweisen-den Urteil, dass die Marken «QATAR 2022» (fig.) und «WORLD CUP 2022» (fig.) einen rein deskriptiven Charakter aufweisen würden und dem Markenschutz deshalb nicht zugänglich seien. Weiter qualifizierte es die Zeichen «PUMA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022» und «PUMA WORLD CUP 2022» als irreführend und damit als nicht eintragungsfähig. Gestützt auf dieses Urteil passte das IGE seine Praxis in Bezug auf das Prüfen der Unterscheidungs-kraft von Eventmarken per 1. Juli 2023 an. Der vorliegende Aufsatz ordnet den Entscheid des Bundesgerichts in den grösseren Kontext des Eventmarkenrechts ein und zeigt unter ande-rem auf, welche Rolle das Lauterkeitsrecht in solchen Konstellationen spielen kann.

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À la suite d’un litige opposant la FIFA et PUMA, le Tribunal fédéral s’est penché en avril 2022 sur la thématique des marques événementielles et s’est prononcé sur la question centrale de leur enregistrement. Dans un arrêt qui fera date, la Haute Cour a décidé que les marques "QATAR 2022" (fig.) et "WORLD CUP 2022" (fig.) présentaient un caractère purement descriptif et ne bénéficiaient ainsi pas de la protection des marques. En outre, elle a considéré que les signes "PUMA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022" et "PUMA WORLD CUP 2022" étaient trompeurs et ne pouvaient être enregistrés. Sur la base de cet arrêt, l'IPI a décidé d’adapter sa pratique d'examen concernant l'analyse du caractère distinctif des marques événementielles à partir du 1er juillet 2023. Le présent article replace la décision du Tribunal fédéral dans le contexte plus général du droit des marques événementielles et montre en particulier le rôle qu’est susceptible de jouer le droit de la concurrence déloyale dans de telles constellations. Le présent article replace la décision du Tribunal fédéral dans le contexte plus général du droit des marques événementielles et montre en particulier le rôle que le droit de la concurrence peut jouer dans de telles constellations.
Sustainability-related disclosure rules and financial market indicators: Searching for interconnections in developed and developing countries
Authors: Makarenko Inna , Vorontsova Anna , Sergiienko Larysa , Hrabchuk Iryna , Gorodysky Mykola
Published: September 2023

In today’s fast-paced business environment, integrating sustainability into financial decision-making has been a key driver of change. As stakeholders increasingly demand greater corporate transparency and accountability, regulatory bodies have stepped in to ensure that sustainability reporting is standardized and robust. This paper aims to establish the relationship between the sustainability-related disclosure rules and the dynamic indicators of the financial market. The object of the study is 74 countries of the world, which are grouped into developed and developing countries. The time period is 2021, for the stock market capitalization indicators – 2020, as the most recent years with available data. The research methods are normality tests (Shapiro-Wilk and Shapiro-Francia test), comparison methods (Student’s t-test and Mann-Whitney U test, regression analysis with dummy variables), linear and non-linear correlation and regression analysis (logarithmic, polynomial). The results obtained confirmed that the sustainability-related disclosure rules are higher in developed countries than in developing ones. At the same time, in developed countries, the growth of such requirements affects the increase in stock price volatility, stock market capitalization, foreign direct and portfolio investments. For developing countries, there is also an increase in the stock market capitalization, portfolio investments and the volume of stock trading. Recognizing these trends can benefit both financial market regulators and participants to encourage the formation of a transparent and efficient financial market, thereby mitigating the problems associated with information asymmetry.
The influence of talent management practices on employee retention and performance: An empirical study of Jordanian service organizations
Authors: Alsakarneh Asaad , Mofleh Al-gharaibeh Shehadeh , Issa Allozi Abdelwahhab , Tallga Ababneh Hayel , Eneizan Bilal
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to examine the influence of talent management practices (recruitment and selection, training and development, rewards and compensation) on employee retention and employee performance in Jordanian service organizations. A questionnaire was adopted and distributed among the employees in the service organizations in Jordan; the study’s respondents were 267 employees from service organizations (telecommunication firms, banks, and tourism firms). SmartPLS 3 was used to analyze the data and to examine the measurement and structural models. The findings of the study indicated that rewards and compensation significantly and positively affected employee performance (t = 2.558) and employee retention (t = 5.336). Similarly, recruitment and selection significantly and positively influenced employee performance (t = 2.208) and employee retention (t = 5.822). Training and development also significantly and positively affected employee performance (t = 2.288) and employee retention (t = 2.699). The results suggest that implementing talent management practices (recruitment and selection, training and development, and rewards and compensation) can improve employee retention and performance in Jordanian service organizations.
Involvement of CHRNA6 in the Immune Response in Lung Squamous Cell
Carcinoma and its Potential as a Drug Target for the Disease
Authors: Zhang Fengyu , Zhang Meidi , Yuan Xin , Tao Yulian , Wang Ju
Published: September 2023

Background:

Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is a subtype of lung cancer with a poor prognosis
and limited treatment options. Previous studies show that some components of the cholinergic pathway may
play important roles in the tumorigenesis of lung cancer, including LUSC.

Objective:

The purpose of this study is to investigate the involvement of cholinergic genes in immune infiltration
in LUSC, and identify the key genes in the pathway and analyze their potential as targets for LUSC treatment
and novel drugs.

Methods:

We first screened the cholinergic genes associated with immune infiltration in LUSC based on transcriptomic
samples and explored the correlation between the key genes and immune infiltrating cells and immune
pathways. Then, we assessed the effect of immunotherapeutic response in the high and low-expression
groups of key genes in vitro. And finally, we screened potential drugs for the treatment of LUSC.

Results:

We found that the expression of CHRNA6, the gene encoding the α6 subunit of nicotinic acetylcholine
receptors (nAChR), was significantly correlated with the proportion of immune infiltrating cells in LUSC, and
the high expression level of the gene was associated with poor prognosis of the disease. Also, the proportion of
Tregs, M1 macrophages, and resting mast cells was correlated with the expression of CHRNA6. In addition,
LUSC patients with higher CHRNA6 expression levels had better immunotherapy responses. Furthermore, we
found that the drugs, i.e., adavosertib, varbulin and pyrazoloacridine, had a strong affinity with CHRNA6, with
adavosertib binding most stably with the protein.

Conclusion:

CHRNA6 may be associated with immune infiltration in LUSC and affects patient prognosis and
immunotherapeutic response by regulating immune cells and immune pathways. In addition, adavosertib may
be a potential drug for the treatment of LUSC.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activities of Indole-based Schiff Bases and their Metal
Complexes: A Review
Authors: Priya Bhanu , Utreja Divya , Sharma Shivali , Kaur Gurbir , Madhvi
Published: September 2023

Heterocyclic compounds containing nitrogen have emerged as crucial entities in the realm
of medicinal chemistry. Among these, Schiff bases derived from indole or compounds incorporating
an indole moiety have demonstrated a wide range of biological properties, including antibacterial,
anticancer, antitumor and antimicrobial activities. The diverse characteristics exhibited by Schiff
bases have stimulated the exploration of their antimicrobial potential, with the aim of developing
more effective drugs to save precious lives. This review article focuses on the synthesis of various
Schiff bases derived from the indole moiety and their antimicrobial activities. The extensive body of
work in synthesizing these Schiff bases and evaluating their antimicrobial properties is comprehensively
discussed. The insights provided in this review can serve as a valuable resource for researchers
engaged in the development of efficient drugs.
A Novel Natural Killer Cell-related Gene Signature for Improving the
Prediction of Prognosis and Immunotherapy Response in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Ma Xudong , Wei Xifeng , Yang Guanghua , Li Shuai , Liu Ranlu
Published: September 2023

Background:

Bladder cancer (BLCA) is a commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide that
exhibits high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Immunotherapy is increasingly being recognised
in the clinical management of bladder cancer. In addition, the prospect of developing Natural Killer
(NK) cell-related immunotherapy is promising in BLCA.

Methods:

We established and verified a prognostic signature based on NK cell-related gene expression.
We then calculated the NKscore of BLCA samples and correlated it with the clinical outcomes, molecular
subtypes of BLCA, tumour microenvironment (TME), and predicted efficacy of immune checkpoint
inhibitors (ICI) and chemotherapy drugs to thoroughly explore the implications of the NKscore. Finally,
the role of the NK signature gene HECTD1 in BLCA was verified by Quantitative Real-time PCR, Cell
Counting Kit-8 Assay (CCK-8), Transwell Assay and Colony Formation Experiment.

Results:

We analysed NK cell-associated genes and identified six genes with significant prognostic
relevance. A high NK score significantly represents a worse prognosis. NKscore was significantly
correlated with seven types of classical molecular subtype classifications of BLCA. In addition,
NKscore positively correlates with NK-related immune checkpoints, suggesting that emerging NK
cell immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as monalizumab, may have potential therapeutic promise
for patients with high NKscore. The results of the T cell inflamed score (TIS) and tumour immune
dysfunction exclusion (TIDE) score confirmed the suitability of immunotherapy for patients with a
high NK score. Likewise, patients with a high NK score may be more suitable for several significant
chemotherapeutic drugs. Functional experiments showed that the knockdown of HECTD1
significantly attenuated the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of tumour cells.

Conclusion:

To sum up, the capability of our signature to predict prognosis and immunotherapy
response was robust. Hopefully, these results will provide new insights for BLCA research and
patient immunotherapy.
PI3K Signaling Pathways as a Molecular Target for Glioblastoma
Multiforme
Authors: da Silva Andressa Letícia Lopes , de Araújo Thiago Pina Goes , de Albuquerque Ferreira Shakira Cavalcante , Leite Anderson Brandão , da Silva João Kaycke Sarmento , Albuquerque Lilyana Waleska Nunes , de Lima Ana Rachel Vasconcelos , Silva Barros Herbert Charles , Silva Leandro Rocha , da Silva-Júnior Edeildo Ferreira , de Araújo-Júnior João Xavier , Neto Vivaldo Moura , de Queiroz Aline Cavalcanti , Alexandre-Moreira Magna Suzana
Published: September 2023

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common type of cancer that affects the central
nervous system (CNS). It currently accounts for about 2% of diagnosed malignant tumors
worldwide, with 296,000 new cases reported per year. The first-choice treatment consists of surgical
resection, radiotherapy, and adjuvant chemotherapy, which increases patients' survival by 15
months. New clinical and pre-clinical research aims to improve this prognosis by proposing the
search for new drugs that effectively eliminate cancer cells, circumventing problems such as resistance
to treatment. One of the promising therapeutic strategies in the treatment of GBM is the inhibition
of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway, which is closely related to the process
of tumor carcinogenesis. This review sought to address the main scientific studies of synthetic or
natural drug prototypes that target specific therapy co-directed via the PI3K pathway, against human
glioblastoma.
Inhibitors of Stimulator of Interferon Genes from 2019 to July 2022: An
Overview of the Structure and Bioactivity
Authors: Xu Feng , Tian Xinjian , Zhu Qiangsheng , Feng Ziwen , Li Hui , Dai Wei , Zhou Yeling , You Qi-Dong , Xu Xiaoli
Published: September 2023

Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) plays a vital role in the human innate immune system. Aberrant expression of STING has been proven to be associated with several diseases, such as STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy, Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome, and system-ic lupus erythematosus. Therefore, inhibition of the STING signaling pathway can also be expected to provide effective therapeutic strategies for treating specific inflammatory and autoimmune dis-eases. However, the development of STING inhibitors is still in its infancy. There is still a need for additional efforts toward the discovery of new skeletons and more potent lead compounds for STING inhibition to meet clinical demand. In this review, we provide a summary of STING inhibi-tors, classified by different structural skeletons, reported in patents published from 2019 to July 2022. In addition, we also focus on the STING inhibitors, representative structures, biological activ-ity, and mechanisms of action.
A Case of Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema and Systematic Review of
Literature in Management Approach
Authors: La Regina Domenico Paolo , Arena Roberta , Riccardi Riccardo , Di Renzi Paolo , Orfeo Luigi , Midulla Fabio
Published: September 2023

Background:

Pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) is a rare pathology characterized
by the abnormal and harmful presence of air in the interstitial tissues of the lung. This condition is
often related to barotrauma caused by mechanical ventilation, but it can be exceptionally seen in
healthy infants. The main causes of PIE are respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), mechanical ventilation
or positive pressure ventilation, prematurity, meconium aspiration syndrome, pulmonary infection,
amniotic fluid aspiration, and incorrect endotracheal tube placement. To date, there is no
standard treatment for PIE, based on the clinical and localization of PIE conservative and non--
conservative therapies are described.

Methods:

We describe a case of a very premature infant with severe respiratory failure secondary
to RDS and unilateral left sided PIE with lung herniation treated with conservative therapy like selective
intubation, steroid therapy, lateral position, and lastly, oxygen supplementation without ventilatory
assistance. Furthermore, we have carried out a systematic literature review for the past 15
years (2007-2022). A systematic review, using an evidence-based algorithmic approach, was conducted
following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)
guidelines.

Results:

Our search, after the selection, produced a total of 24 articles, which were revised.

Conclusion:

In our case oxygen supplementation without ventilatory assistance resulted in successful
resolution of the left PIE. Discontinuation of ventilatory care played a crucial role. Considering
the management reported in literature, our aim is to perform a systematic literature review by adding
our experience to the available knowledge on therapy for unilateral PIE.
New Molecular Complexes of Glycyrrhizic Acid Monoammonium Salt
(Glycyram) with Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics
Authors: Yakovishin Leonid A. , Bukharov Sergey V. , Babaev Vasily M. , Nikitina Elena V. , Bulatova Elena S.
Published: September 2023

Aims:

The study aimed to search of new molecular complexes of licorice saponin with
fluoroquinolone antibiotics and to explore their pharmaceutical potential.

Background:

Molecular complexation of triterpene glycosides with pharmaceutical substances reduces
side effects and therapeutic doses, increases bioavailability and stability, and expands the
spectrum of biological activity of drugs. Glycyrrhizic acid is the major triterpene glycoside of licorice.
Molecular complexes of monoammonium salt of glycyrrhizic acid (glycyram, GC) with fluoroquinolone
antibiotics have not been described.

Objectives:

This study is devoted to the preparation and analysis of molecular complexes of GC
with fluoroquinolones, and investigation of their antimicrobial activity.

Methods:

Complexation was studied via FT-IR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy and mass spectrometry
methods.

Results:

Molecular complexes of GC with fluoroquinolone antibiotics, along with their benzylated
derivatives, were obtained for the first time.

Conclusion:

The complexes composition was defined as 1:1. Intermolecular hydrogen bonds are
formed during complexation. In addition, stability constants of 105 М-1 order were calculated. Some
complexes are comparable in antimicrobial activity with individual antibiotics ciprofloxacin (CP)
and moxifloxacin (Moc) or surpass them in relation to a number of bacteria. These molecular complexes
could be potential low-dose drugs with antimicrobial activity.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Ultrasmall Silver Nanoparticles by
Pulsed Laser Ablation in Deionized Water
Authors: Hussein Sarwin Yaseen , Abbas Tariq Abdul-Hameed
Published: September 2023

Background:

The main objective of this work is the synthesis and evaluation of silver
nanoparticles (Ag NPs) by using pulsed laser ablation of a silver (Ag) target in deionized water
and examining their antibacterial activity.

Methods:

Colloidal solutions of silver nanoparticles were prepared with different pulsed laser
energies (620, 880, and 1000) mJ of wavelength 1064 nm and frequency 10 Hz. To determine
their structure, optical, morphology, elemental composition, and infrared spectra, the synthesized
Ag NPs were characterized using various high-throughput analytical techniques such as (UVVis)
spectroscopy, transmission electron microgram (TEM), electron dispersive X-ray spectroscopy
(EDX), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, and Zeta potential.

Results:

The results show that the properties of synthesized Ag NPs depend much more on the
laser energy. The laser energy can be used to control the properties of the prepared nanoparticles.
Uniform distributions of spherical ultrasmall Ag NPs with an average size of (3) nm were
obtained suspended in deionized water, which is the most effective size for antibacterial activity.
However, the result indicated that the ablated Ag NPs were stable for 4 months in deionized
water. The antibacterial activity of the colloidal solution of synthesized Ag NPs against Gramnegative
Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacteria
was then examined using the agar-well diffusion method.

Conclusion:

It was found that the prepared nanoparticles exhibited strong activity against E. coli
and S. aureus bacteria growth. The average zones of inhibition of Ag NPs were found to be
about (26) mm for E. coli and (32) mm for S. aureus bacteria.
Recent Patents for Optical Component Polishing Technology
Authors: Li Guo , Chen Rong
Published: September 2023

Background:

Fluid jet polishing, Airbag polishing, Magnetorheological polishing, and Ion beam polishing are all emerging polishing technologies commonly used for processing optical components, which can be used to manufacture various high-precision and high-quality optical components. Their processing mechanisms are to remove materials by high-speed jet impacting the surface of the workpiece; using a spherical flexible airbag as a polishing tool to obtain a super-smooth surface by adding polishing fluid containing fine abrasives; controlling the magnetic field to form a flexible polishing belt of Magnetorheological fluid, which undergoes relative motion to achieve material removal; using a neutral ion beam to bombard the surface of the workpiece to remove workpiece surface atoms and obtain a super-smooth surface through energy and momentum transfer between ions and workpiece atoms. The characteristics and removal mechanisms of various polishing methods are briefly described, and the advantages and key issues that need to be addressed for each polishing technology are pointed out, and suggestions and prospects for future research, application, and development are also given.

Objective:

In order to meet the growing demand for high-precision optical components and mass-manufactured optical components, this paper aims to study the various polishing technologies that are continuously improved and suggestions are made for future research and development directions.

Method:

This paper reviews the current patents related to various polishing technologies, such as Fluid jet polishing, Airbag polishing, Magnetorheological polishing and Ion beam polishing and other representative polishing technologies.

Results:

Various types of polishing technologies have been studied, and the main problem at the current stage is the lack of accuracy. The problem of the polishing device, such as fluid jet polishing, only considers the change of fluid velocity and pressure to construct the removal function model for analysis and summary, and suggestions for the latest research progress of various polishing technologies are given.

Conclusion:

The improvement and optimization of polishing technology are beneficial to improving the polishing accuracy and quality of optical components and have great help for the future development of related patents.