bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Water‐Soluble Fluorescent Probe Derived from Pyridine‐2,6‐Dicarboxylic Acid: Synthesis, Interaction with Ions, and Two‐Photon Microscopy
Authors: Wei Zheng‐You , Ji Qi‐Lin , Qi Ya‐Nan , Song Liu‐Jun , Xiong Feng , He Jun‐Lin , Mao Li‐Shuang , Yu Guo‐Wei
Published: September 2024

Two‐photon excited fluorescence is a process in which the excited fluorophore relaxes and emits fluorescence after two‐photon absorption. Combined with appropriate two‐photon fluorescent probes, two‐photon microscopy enables observation deep inside tissue without damage. Former reports showed that the two‐photon absorption cross sections of donor–acceptor (D–A) dipoles, as well as D‐π‐D and D–A–D quadrupoles can be strengthened by using strong D–A groups. In this study, a novel water‐soluble fluorescent probe with D‐π‐A structure containing pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxylic acid unit was synthesized. The maximum excitation wavelength and emission wavelength of the probe in aqueous solution were 328 nm and 471 nm, respectively. The fluorescence emitted by the probe can be quenched by various metal cations. The pyridyl N and carboxyl O in the probe formed chelates with Cu2+, which resulted in a fluorescence quenching response, and showed a linear relationship between fluorescent intensity and Cu2+ concentration with wide linear range and low limit of detection. CCK‐8 tests showed the probe had no obvious toxicity to 4T1 cells in the range of 0.4–50 μmol L−1, and the cell survival rate was above 86 %. The probe had a large two‐photon absorption cross section ranging from 680 nm to 820 nm. The two‐photon absorption cross section reached 100 GM at 760 nm of excitation wavelength. By means of microscopic imaging of 4T1 cells stained with the probe, one‐photon fluorescence represented blue emission, while two‐photon fluorescence represented bright green emission. The probe was proved to have good cell permeability, and preferred to target nucleus, showing application potential in two‐photon fluorescence imaging technology.
2‐Ethenyl Imidazolium Salts: Synthesis, Characterization, and Evaluation as Potential Chemotherapeutics
Authors: Hobbs Mahala S. , Chen Wei‐Yuan , Youngs Wiley J. , Ziegler Christopher J.
Published: September 2024

As candidates for intravesical exfoliants to treat bladder cancer, we have prepared fourteen new imidazolium compounds substituted at the 2 position. These compounds were produced by use of the Knoevenagel reaction between a series of aryl aldehydes and 2‐methyl imidazolium salts. Two azolium systems were examined (benzimidazole and 4,5‐dichloroimidazole) and each of these heterocycles are substituted off the nitrogen atom positions with naphthalen‐2‐ylmethyl groups. NMR spectroscopy confirms formation of the carbon‐carbon double bond, and X‐ray crystallography confirmed that the alkenes adopt the E conformation. These new imidazolium salts were evaluated for their chemotherapeutic activity using the NCI‐60 Human Tumor Cell Line Screen, and we observed that the benzimidazolium systems were more toxic than the dichloroimidazolium systems, and that the methyl phenol ether or dimethyl aniline modified compounds showed the highest activities.
Genome‐wide association mapping reveals novel genes and genomic regions controlling root‐lesion nematode resistance in chickpea mini core collection
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Naik Yogesh Dashrath , Gautam Vedant , Sahu Sunanda , Valluri Vinod , Channale Sonal , Bhatt Jayant , Sharma Stuti , Ramakrishnan R. S. , Sharma Radheshyam , Kudapa Himabindu , Zwart Rebecca S. , Punnuri Somashekhar M. , Varshney Rajeev K. , Thudi Mahendar
Published: September 2024

Root‐lesion nematodes (RLN) pose a significant threat to chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) by damaging the root system and causing up to 25% economic losses due to reduced yield. Worldwide commercially grown chickpea varieties lack significant genetic resistance to RLN, necessitating the identification of genetic variants contributing to natural resistance. This study identifies genomic loci responsible for resistance to the RLN, Pratylenchus thornei Sher & Allen, in chickpea by utilizing high‐quality single nucleotide polymorphisms from whole‐genome sequencing data of 202 chickpea accessions. Phenotypic evaluations of the genetically diverse set of chickpea accessions in India and Australia revealed a wide range of responses from resistant to susceptible. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) employing Fixed and Random Model Circulating Probability Unification (FarmCPU) and Bayesian‐Information and Linkage‐Disequilibrium Iteratively Nested Keyway (BLINK) models identified 44 marker‐trait associations distributed across all chromosomes except Ca1. Crucially, genomic regions on Ca2 and Ca5 consistently display significant associations across locations. Of 25 candidate genes identified, five genes were putatively involved in RLN resistance response (glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, heat shock proteins, MYB‐like DNA‐binding protein, zinc finger FYVE protein and pathogenesis‐related thaumatin‐like protein). One notably identified gene (Ca_10016) presents four haplotypes, where haplotypes 1–3 confer moderate susceptibility, and haplotype 4 contributes to high susceptibility to RLN. This information provides potential targets for marker development to enhance breeding for RLN resistance in chickpea. Additionally, five potential resistant genotypes (ICC3512, ICC8855, ICC5337, ICC8950, and ICC6537) to P. thornei were identified based on their performance at a specific location. The study's significance lies in its comprehensive approach, integrating multiple‐location phenotypic evaluations, advanced GWAS models, and functional genomics to unravel the genetic basis of P. thornei resistance. The identified genomic regions, candidate genes, and haplotypes offer valuable insights for breeding strategies, paving the way for developing chickpea varieties resilient to P. thornei attack.
The Concept of Creativity (and Its Importance for Musical Expression)
Authors: Rimas Juozas , Rimas Jr Juozas
Published: September 2024

The concept of creativity; the importance of giftedness and inner motivation for creativity (Plato). The conditions for the emergence of creativity: openness to cultural experience and a need to pursue the meaningfulness of expression. Creative action is the return of experiences to the world (A. Šliogeris; Plato). Creative activity and creative attitude (E. Fromm). Creativity and self-expression; creative and possessive impulses (B. Russell). The importance for the artist of a rich inner life (S. Šalkauskis). Experience versus experiencing: experience is a semantic construct in which knowledge, abilities and so forth are accumulated in a whole which allows experiencing—that is, what is experienced here and now—to be realised. Aesthetic experiencing (M. C. Beardsley). The incomplete character of the work as a premise for a creative act (A. Maceina). The material as an obstacle (A. Maceina): the performer has to overcome not only the mental but also instrumental, opposition of the form. Freedom as the main condition for creative activity. The latent thinking of the artist as manifestation of the artist’s experience in their creative activity (S. Šalkauskis). The broader concept of freedom: to create one’s own life as an opportunity to project and transcend oneself (E. Mounier).
A Philosophical Approach to Musical Expression: Necessity or Possibility
Authors: Rimas Juozas , Rimas Jr Juozas
Published: September 2024

A philosophical approach to musical expression as not necessary but desirable. Pure music as philosophical and instrumental (F. Schlegel). Philosophy and art fulfilling the same mission—to bring a person face to face with the mystery of transcendence (A. Šliogeris). The “secret” and “public” sides of philosophy described by A. Šliogeris: comparison with the inner form and text of music. The philosophical and everyday view of things; Plato’s allegory of the cave; paideia (A. Šliogeris). The concept of beauty as articulated by Aristotle (kalokagathia), St Augustine (unity, proportionality), I. Kant (purposiveness), J. Maritain (brilliance of form). The ability to apply philosophical ideas can deepen an understanding of the subject of music: the ability to hear the voice of the spirit of the being, that is, the creative work (M. Heiddeger), stimulates the possibility of expression. Knowledge works as a tool of power (A. Mickevičius; F. Nietzsche).
The Phenomenological Approach to Musical Expression
Authors: Rimas Juozas , Rimas Jr Juozas
Published: September 2024

Phenomenology inquires into the essences inherent in phenomena (M. Heidegger, V. Sesemann). A fact is something which is explained by something else, while a phenomenon is understood from itself. Beauty is born when the essence of the structures of the work is revealed by appropriate means: sounds must fulfil the obligations of the eidos (the artistic idea). E. Husserl envisioned phenomenology as a science of essences or eidetic science (D. Stewart, A. Mickunas): the interpretation of music is the grasping of the essence and its expression. The phenomenon of music expresses aesthetic feelings; this is served by its processual nature: it is close to the dynamics of change in the human emotional condition. The truth is the state in which the being of the phenomenon of transcendence is opened up: musical truth is equal to musical being. Intersubjectivity: the “Other” is the basis for the emergence of the “I” (E. Husserl). Art is dialogue: all music calls to an ear not the musician’s own (M. Buber). The author summarises the principles of the phenomenological approach: (1) the phenomenon of music must be analysed on the basis of eidetics and not according to the habit of the interpreter; (2) the eidetic meaning cannot be detached from the specifics of the work, its musical characteristics, however, a phenomenological action requires reduction, i.e., a narrowing of attention to what is essential; (3) musical reduction happens through a transformation (metanoia) of the thinking of the person-perceiver: a leap from “how it seems to me” to “how it really is”; (4) the art of music exists not only in the space of consciousness, but also in the space of culture; (5) a musical phenomenon opens up what makes it specific and precludes one from explaining it by use of clichés. A work of musical art becomes such exclusively through perception (M. Dufrenne). The Swiss conductor E. Ansermet states that music is “the time that has been experienced” and associates an affective experience with culture: in the realm of culture, the act of transcendence inherent in all musical experience happens by itself.
In Lieu of Conclusions
Authors: Rimas Juozas , Rimas Jr Juozas
Published: September 2024

Meaningful expression emerges only when there is an intention—the focusing of the consciousness on the object of interpretation (the work). A work exists insofar as it exists in relation to the person who interprets it (A. Maceina). Music is an art deserving of pity: verses, if they are printed, already live; but a printed composition is still not music: it is necessary to reproduce it, to intone it (B. Asaf’ev). The book highlights the qualities required for the act of interpretation, which is the only path to meaningful expression. Intertextuality: the world is a text and everything has already been said. So, it is only possible to create something new by composing from previously known elements (I. Melnikova): the text is “a new tissue of old quotations” (R. Barthes). The experience stored by the interpreter is enriched by new experiences: interpretive activity is striving for an increasingly effective result. When we see something, we must think something in order to see anything (H. Gadamer): we reach the truth through thinking. It is important to have a soul which loves truth, and receives it wherever it finds it (J. W. von Goethe).
Some Principles of Baroque Aesthetics Which Are Important for Musical Expression
Authors: Rimas Juozas , Rimas Jr Juozas
Published: September 2024

One of the most important prerequisites for the formation of the Baroque style of music was the desire to revive the art of ancient rhetoric, which has the following similarities with music: (1) the sonic nature of the realisation (the perception of the expression through hearing); (2) the processual nature (becoming in a particular segment of time); (3) the emotional nature (the aim of arousing affects); (4) common elements of both languages (verbal and musical): tempo, rhythm, accentuation, articulation, pauses, timbre, intonation and so forth. Mention of R. Descartes’ Compendium of Music and Passions of the Soul as works which exercised a great influence on the theory of affects, and presentation of the ideas of A. Angoulvent on Cartesian philosophy. Application of this to the performance of music, so that the affect is the idea, and its understanding provides the key to the means of expression.

According to the Lithuanian musicologist G. Daunoravičienė, intellectual and affective communication between the orator/music and listener characteristic of the Baroque aesthetic means that not only the former (the addresser) but also the latter (the addressee) participates in the becoming of the work. Mention of other principles of Baroque aesthetics in music, such as the ability to think through singing (singend denken), which C. P. E. Bach considered synonymous with playing expressively, and the idea of freedom of movement developed by P. Tosi, which eventually became established in the practice of musical performance as the term rubato (rubare il tempo—“stealing time”; the author connects this with J. J. Quantz’s earlier advice to performers to avoid uniformity when sounding the notes).
Voice and Sound
Authors: Rimas Juozas , Rimas Jr Juozas
Published: September 2024

The principles of rhetoric were transferred from vocal music to instrumental music. Song is an extension of speech, while instrumental music is the transfer of song to an instrument (A. Maceina). Pursuit of song-like instrumental expression (“thinking in terms of song”—C. P. E. Bach) is one of the most important forms of musicality. If the externality of the instrument disappears, in this virtuosity the foreign instrument appears as a perfectly developed organ of the artistic soul (G. Hegel).

Discovering a love of singing in his teens, the author developed a vocal orientation. Later, in concert halls, in addition to performing on the oboe, he started to sing Lithuanian folk songs, returning to the singing expression engendered in his childhood. Two pairs of recordings of the author’s performances at various times between 1973 and 2019 are referenced: Grave from the Oboe Concerto in C major by F. Dall’Abaco, and the Lithuanian folk song Vai tu, aglala (“O, you little fir tree”); Largo by the Lithuanian composer J. Indra (1918–1968) and the Lithuanian folk song Rūta žalioj (“Green rue”).

Brief discussion of various aspects of vocal quality of sound expression and historical examples: messa di voce, portamento, instrumental obligatos of the arias of cantatas of J. S. Bach, and music of W. A. Mozart for clarinet inspired by A. Stadler. German instrumental culture, which moved in the direction of singende Denken, is illustrated by recordings of three works of W. A. Mozart, performed with the author on oboe—String Quartet No. 12 (KV 172)—Adagio, Three German Dances (KV 605), and German Dance (KV 611). As instrumental music has developed, it has deviated from the principles of ars cantandi.
Angioembolization in patients with blunt splenic trauma in Germany –guidelines vs. Reality a retrospective registry-based cohort study of the TraumaRegister DGU®
Authors: Kölbel Benny , Imach Sebastian , Engelhardt Michael , Wafaisade Arasch , Lefering Rolf , Beltzer Christian ,   TraumaRegister DGU
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Nonoperative management (NOM) for blunt splenic injuries (BSIs) is supported by both international and national guidelines in Germany, with high success rates even for severe organ injuries. Angioembolization (ANGIO) has been recommended for stabilizable patients with BSI requiring intervention since the 2016 German National Trauma Guideline. The objectives were to study treatment modalities in the adult BSI population according to different severity parameters including NOM, ANGIO and splenectomy in Germany.

Methods

Between 2015 and 2020, a retrospective registry-based cohort study was performed on patients with BSIs with an Abbreviated Injury Score ≥ 2 in Germany using registry data from the TraumaRegister DGU® (TR DGU). This registry includes patients which were treated in a resuscitation room and spend more than 24-h in an intensive care unit or died in the resuscitation room.

Results

A total of 2,782 patients with BSIs were included in the analysis. ANGIO was used in 28 patients (1.0%). NOM was performed in 57.5% of all patients, predominantly those with less severe organ injuries measured by the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Organ Injury Scale (AAST) ≤ 2. The splenectomy rate for patients with an AAST ≥ 3 was 58.5%, and the overall mortality associated with BSI was 15%.

Conclusions

In this cohort splenic injuries AAST ≥ 3 were predominantly managed surgically and ANGIO was rarely used to augment NOM. Therefore, clinical reality deviates from guideline recommendations regarding the use of ANGIO and NOM. Local interdisciplinary treatment protocols might close that gap in the future.
Treatment-related leukoencephalopathy in adults with central nervous system lymphoma: a retrospective analysis of 126 patients
Authors: Masuda Yasutaka , Nara Katsuhiko , Fujii-Mori Alice , Shimura Arika , Taoka Kazuki , Watadani Takeyuki , Morita Ken , Yamamoto Takehito , Kurokawa Mineo , Takada Tappei
Published: September 2024

Neurotoxicity associated with high-dose chemotherapy and whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) is one of major complications for patients with central nervous system lymphoma (CNSL). Here we determined the incidence and risk factors of treatment-related leukoencephalopathy (tLE) in a clinical setting. We retrospectively reviewed clinical and radiological findings of 126 patients with  (CNSL) treated with high-dose methotrexate with or without intrathecal methotrexate administration (IT MTX) and response-adapted WBRT. During the whole observation period with a median of 38.7 months, tLE was found in 33 patients, most of them asymptomatic, with the median time to development 3.0 months, and the cumulative incidence reaching 29.2% (95% confidence interval, 20.6–38.2%) two years post chemotherapy. By multivariable analysis, IT MTX was identified as the only one significant risk factor (hazard ratio, 4.50; P < 0.001), and the number of IT MTX was associated with the increased incidence and severity of tLE. These findings highlight the frequent neurological complications associated with CNS-directed therapy and confirm the neurotoxicity of IT MTX.
Effects of early-life amino acids supplementation on fish responses to a thermal challenge
Authors: Navarro-Guillén Carmen , Jerez-Cepa Ismael , Lopes André , Mancera Juan Miguel , Engrola Sofia
Published: September 2024

Nutritional programming is a promising concept for promoting metabolic adaptation of fish to challenging conditions, such as the increase in water temperature. The present work evaluates in ovo arginine or glutamine supplementation as enhancers of zebrafish metabolic or absorptive capacity, respectively, at optimum (28 ºC) and challenging temperatures (32 ºC) in the long-term. Growth performance, free amino acids profile, methylation index and the activity levels of digestive and intermediary metabolism enzymes were analysed to assess the metabolic plasticity induced by an early nutritional intervention. Temperature affected fish larvae growth performance. At the end of the experimental period 28 ºC-fish showed higher dry weight than 32 ºC-fish. The effects of the early supplementation were reflected in the larval free amino acids profile at the end of the experiment. Higher methylation potential was observed in the ARG-fish. In ovo amino acid supplementation modulated the metabolic response in zebrafish larvae, however, the magnitude of this effect differed according to the amino acid and the temperature. Overall, arginine supplementation enhanced carbohydrates metabolism at 32 ºC. In conclusion, the present work suggests that in ovo arginine supplementation may promote a better adaptive response to higher temperatures.
One year follow-up of the colon cancer patient cohort treated with a novel miniaturized robotic-assisted surgery device (mRASD)
Authors: Marks John H. , Jobst Michael A. , Keller Deborah S. , Lagares-Garcia Jorge A. , Schoonyoung Henry P. , Farritor Shane M. , Oleynikov Dmitry
Published: September 2024

Background

With the proven benefits of minimally invasive surgery, there is steady growth in robotic surgery use and interest in novel robotic platforms. A miniaturized Robotic-Assisted Surgery Device (mRASD) has been in clinical use under a multi-center, investigational device exemption (IDE) study for right and left colectomy. The goal of this work was to report the short-term and 12-month outcomes specifically for the cohort of colon cancer patients that underwent surgery using the mRASD.

Method

From the IDE study that included both benign and malignant diseases, long-term follow-up was only conducted for patients with colon cancer. The main outcome measures were the oncologic quality metrics (Overall Survival, OS and Disease-free Survival, DFS). Secondary outcomes included incidence of intra-operative, device-related, and procedure-related adverse events. Frequency statistics were performed to assess the measures of central tendency and variability in short (within 30 days) and long-term (1-year) outcomes.

Results

Thirty total patients underwent a colectomy with mRASD; 17 (57%) were diagnosed with a malignancy and included in this analysis. The mean patient age was 59.9 ± 13.2 years. There were no intraoperative or device-related adverse events. In 100% of cases (n = 17), the primary dissection was completed and hemostasis maintained using the mRASD, and negative margins were achieved. At 30 days postoperatively, the major complication rate was 6%, and there was one unplanned reoperation for anastomotic leak. At one-year follow-up, the OS and DFS rates were 100 and 94%, respectively. In one patient, omental implants were discovered at the time of surgery, and the patient opted to not undergo additional therapy.

Conclusions

The first experience with mRASD for colectomy in colon cancer demonstrated technical effectiveness and an acceptable surgical safety profile in line with other minimally invasive procedures. The study continues to monitor disease recurrence and survival outcomes in this cohort.
Rezidivierende Traumatisierung als Wegbereiter für Komorbiditäten im Bereich dissoziativer und psychosomatischer Störungen
Authors: Aichberger Marion C. , Kocsis-Bogar Krisztina
Published: September 2024

Im Rahmen psychiatrischer und psychotherapeutischer Arbeit ist es nicht selten, dass sich Symptome und die sich davon ableitenden Diagnosen im Behandlungsverlauf ändern. Ein besonderer Stellenwert kommt hierbei den dissoziativen Störungen zu, welche sich oft erst im Verlauf neben anderen Symptomen zeigen können oder auch als einziges Störungsbild vorliegen können. Im Folgenden wollen wir einen Fallbericht einer Patientin mit dem Verdacht auf eine partielle dissoziative Identitätsstörung darstellen.
Community pharmacists’ perceptions and experiences of medicine shortages in disruptive situations: a qualitative study
Authors: Bachoolall Rivana , Suleman Fatima
Published: September 2024

Background

Medicine shortages are a challenge in upper, lower and middle-income countries, including South Africa. In recent years, community pharmacists, in Durban, South Africa, have experienced the COVID-19 pandemic, flooding, civil unrest and electricity disruptions. Little is known about the impact of these disruptions on medicine shortages in community pharmacies.

Aim

To explore community pharmacists' perceptions and their experiences with medicine shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic and other disruptive situations.

Method

Convenience and snowball sampling were used to recruit participants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in person or via an online video conferencing platform, which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Using the Framework Method, the transcripts were analysed thematically on NVivo 14 software.

Results

Fifteen community pharmacists were interviewed. Five major themes emerged from thematic analysis: general perceptions of medicine shortages, the impact of disruptive situations, the consequences of medicine shortages, mitigation strategies; and further suggestions and resources. Disruptive situations were perceived to exacerbate shortages. Participants perceived a negative financial impact on patients and pharmacies, with out-of-pocket costs affecting the former and loss of income affecting the latter. The mitigation strategies used were contacting stakeholders, medicine substitution and stock management.

Conclusion

Community pharmacists felt that improved communication, collaboration, policies, notification systems and guidelines would mitigate shortages.
A stacking-based model for the spread of Botryosphaeria laricina
Authors: Zhou Hongwei , Zhang Shibo , Xie Meng , Li Xiaodong , Chen Yifan , Dai Wenhao
Published: September 2024

Botryosphaeria laricina (larch shoot blight) was first identified in 1973 in Jilin Province, China. The disease spread rapidly and caused considerable damage because its pathogenesis was unknown at the time and there were no effective controls or quarantine methods. At present, it shows a spreading trend, but most research can only conduct physiological analyses within a relatively short period, combining individual influencing factors. Nevertheless, methods such as neural network models, ensemble learning algorithms, and Markov models are used in pest and disease prediction and forecasting. However, there may be fitting issues or inherent limitations associated with these methods. This study obtained B. laricina data at the county level from 2003 to 2021. The dataset was augmented using the SMOTE algorithm, and then algorithms such as XGBoost were used to select the significant features from a combined set of 12 features. A new stacking fusion model has been proposed to predict the status of B. laricina. The model is based on random forest, gradient boosted decision tree, CatBoost and logistic regression algorithms. The accuracy, recall, specificity, precision, F1 value and AUC of the model reached 90.9%, 91.6%, 90.4%, 88.8%, 90.2% and 96.2%. The results provide evidence of the strong performance and stability of the model. B. laricina is mainly found in the northeast and this study indicates that it is spreading northwest. Reasonable means should be used promptly to prevent further damage and spread.
Comparative Effects of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha, Lipopolysaccharide, and Palmitate on Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Cultured 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Jack Babalwa Unice , Dias Stephanie , Pheiffer Carmen
Published: September 2024

We have previously reported that dysregulated lipid metabolism and inflammation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes is attributed to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) rather than lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and palmitate (PA). In this study, we further compared the modulative effects of TNFα, LPS, and PA on mitochondrial function by treating 3T3-L1 adipocytes with TNFα (10 ng/mL), LPS (100 ng/mL), and PA (0.75 mM) individually or in combination for 24 h. Results showed a significant reduction in intracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content, mitochondrial bioenergetics, total antioxidant capacity, and the mRNA expression of citrate synthase (Cs), sirtuin 3 (Sirt3), protein kinase AMP-activated catalytic subunit alpha 2 (Prkaa2), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 alpha (Ppargc1α), nuclear respiratory factor 1 (Nrf1), and superoxide dismutase 1 (Sod1) in cells treated with TNFα individually or in combination with LPS and PA. Additionally, TNFα treatments decreased insulin receptor substrate 1 (Irs1), insulin receptor substrate 2 (Irs2), solute carrier family 2, facilitated glucose transporter member 4 (Slc2a4), and phosphoinositide 3 kinase regulatory subunit 1 (Pik3r1) mRNA expression. Treatment with LPS and PA alone, or in combination, did not affect the assessed metabolic parameters, while the combination of LPS and PA increased lipid peroxidation. These results show that TNFα but not LPS and PA dysregulate mitochondrial function, thus inducing oxidative stress and impaired insulin signaling in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. This suggests that TNFα treatment can be used as a basic in vitro model for studying the pathophysiology of mitochondrial dysfunction and related metabolic complications and screening potential anti-obesity therapeutics in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.
Understanding the Impacts of Child Sexual Abuse in China from a Cultural Perspective: An Analysis of Posts from an Online Q&A Forum
Authors: Tao Yingxue
Published: September 2024

Despite the awareness of the necessity to look from a cultural perspective, few studies have examined how cultural factors influence psychological change after child sexual abuse (CSA) in the Chinese population. This study examined 830 posts on a Chinese online Q&A forum and used thematic analysis to extract important themes and reveal the impacts of child sexual abuse and discuss related cultural values. Three main themes were identified: Forces Making CSA Unspeakable, Long-term Impacts of CSA, and Disillusionment with the Full Recovery. This study suggested that CSA can lead to Dilemmas in Interpersonal Relationships, Self-alienation, Beliefs in Irreparableness of the Damage, and Limited Coping Methods. It also explored how cultural factors such as Sexual Objectification of Women, Patriarchy and Familism, and Minimalization of Non-penetrative Abuse exacerbate these challenges. The contribution of this study is its thorough analysis of the impact of CSA within the context of Chinese culture, along with its novel insights into the role of online posting in the psychological recovery of survivors. Professionals should consider the cultural backgrounds of survivors’ distress, coping, and recovery-related beliefs to develop models of culturally responsive care for survivors.
Simpson’s paradox beyond confounding
Authors: Dong Zili , Cai Weixin , Zhao Shimin
Published: September 2024

Simpson’s paradox (SP) is a statistical phenomenon where the association between two variables reverses, disappears, or emerges, after conditioning on a third variable. It has been proposed (by, e.g., Judea Pearl) that SP should be analyzed using the framework of graphical causal models (i.e., causal DAGs) in which SP is diagnosed as a symptom of confounding bias. This paper contends that this confounding-based analysis cannot fully capture SP: there are cases of SP that cannot be explained away in terms of confounding. Previous works have argued that some cases of SP do not require causal analysis at all. Despite being a logically valid counterexample, we argue that this type of cases poses only a limited challenge to Pearl’s analysis of SP. In our view, a more powerful challenge to Pearl comes from cases of SP that do require causal analysis but can arise without confounding. We demonstrate with examples that accidental associations due to genetic drift, the use of inappropriate aggregate variables as causes, and interactions between units (i.e., inter-unit causation) can all give rise to SP of this type. The discussion is also extended to the amalgamation paradox (of which SP is a special form) which can occur due to the use of non-collapsible association measures, in the absence of confounding.
Differences in reservoir quality within distributary channel belts at the braided river delta front in the Xinchang area of Western Sichuan’s 2nd member of the Xujiahe Formation: genesis and implications
Authors: Zhao Junwei , Zhang Ling , Chen Gongyang , Tian Lei , Zheng Xiaoli , Wang Heng
Published: September 2024

The tight sandstone reservoris are important exploration and production target in the Xujiahe Formation in Xinchang area of Western Sichuan. Due to the various lithofacies and diagenetic alteration in distributary channel belt sandstones, the reservoirs exhibit strong heterogeneity. The strong heterogeneity makes the identification of petrologically superior sandbodies a great challenge. In order to better understand reservoir quality, this study constructs a model between diagenetic alterations and reservoir quality within distributary channel belts. 73 plug samples were taken from 17 wells located in the channel belt. An integration of thin sections, X-ray diffraction, carbon and oxygen isotope ratios, cathodoluminescence, and micro-CT were analysed for the genesis and distribution of reservoir quality. The results show that subaqueous distributary channels are formed under various hydrodynamics, resulting in different lithofacies. The thicknesses of channels can be divided into less than 2 m, 2–6 m, and more than 6 m. The diagenetic alteration in lithofacies were identified. Coarse-grained sandstones with low content of rock fragments are relatively weakly compacted with less calcite and chlorite cementation. Fine-grained sandstones with high content of rock fragments are strongly compacted with calcite cementation during early diagenesis. The dissolution pores are related to the soluble mineral content and the distribution of mudstones. The subaqueous distributary channels formed in high-energy, moderate-energy, and low-energy hydrodynamic settings have experienced different diagenetic intensities. Additionally, fractures can effectively improve the reservoir properties. The distribution of good quality reservoirs is controlled by the combined influence of diagenetic heterogeneity and fractures. This would help to promote better understanding of reservoir quality within the subaqueous distributary channel belts in braided-river delta front.
Process Simulation for Converting CO2 Emissions from the Cement Industry to Dimethyl Ether
Authors: Essam Mohamed , Gad Fatma , Abouseada Nour , Soliman Moustafa Aly , Aboelela Dina
Published: September 2024

Climate change is the leading severe problem in the twenty-first century, which is associated with greenhouse gas emissions, carbon dioxide that is the foremost cause of global warming and super greenhouse effect. In this concern, to avoid hazardous problems, the steady stream of CO2 effluents existing in the atmosphere must be transformed to beneficial products for being used as an abundant chemical feedstock. Implementing a new green strategy, which is known for the catalytic hydrogenation of CO2 into alternative fuels and valuable chemicals, will be a long-lasting solution to alleviate CO2 emissions. In this paper, a process simulation showing the synthesis of dimethyl ether (DME) from CO2 hydrogenation (CO2 produced from EL-Sewedy cement industry) is performed using Aspen HYSYS V10 to attain a complete distinctive design for all equipment for producing a capacity of 475,000 tons per year, while energy integration is performed using Energy Analyzer Simulation software. In the main model, catalytic dehydration is done in a single-pass reactor, and then separation in multi-column product separations. Other configurations were tested by developing three simulation models with different reactors, a double pipe reactor and membrane reactor were with the aim of modification for higher energy efficiency and lower operating and capital costs. Moreover, an economic and environmental study was obtained for the basic & the integrated case, which showed that the total annual/capital costs based on the “base case” are estimated to be 90 million USD without heat integration while the optimum and integrated costs are found to be 100 Million USD. Finally, process optimization and integration were obtained to reduce the utilized energy of the hot & cold utilities by 90% and 60%, respectively.
The Significance of Provisional Patent Applications in Protecting Early-Stage Inventions: A Legal and Empirical Analysis
Authors: Martinez Catalina , Zemła-Pacud Żaneta , Belowska Joanna
Published: September 2024

This article critically examines the role of Provisional Patent Applications (PPAs) as strategic tools within the intellectual property framework, particularly highlighting their significance in safeguarding early-stage inventions. By allowing inventors to secure a priority date while still developing their inventions, PPAs provide a time frame when additional funding can be sought and further development can be pursued without losing the claim to the original invention date. This is especially important in industries like information and communication technology and the life sciences, where development timelines are lengthy and investment-intensive. PPAs serve not only as a cost-effective initial step in patent filing but also as a protective mechanism against premature disclosure, safeguarding the novelty of the invention. PPAs do not undergo formal examination and do not result in a granted patent unless followed by a standard patent application. However, they establish a legal placeholder that can be crucial for securing further patent rights. This study explores the legal framework of PPAs across various jurisdictions. The analysis also delves into the specific benefits and strategic considerations associated with drafting and filing PPAs, including their role in facilitating additional research and refinement of the invention. In addition, it presents novel empirical evidence on the growth of PPAs in the United States and their use as priorities in regular USPTO and EPO patent applications. Despite their advantages, PPAs come with limitations, such as the limited time available to convert them into standard patent applications (typically one year) to benefit from their priority date and the precise requirements for subsequent standard patent applications, which this article addresses. Through a detailed exploration of both the theoretical framework and practical applications of PPAs, the article contributes to a deeper understanding of their role in broader patent strategies, advocating for their careful and informed use in the innovation process.
Physical activity and exercise in chronic kidney disease: consensus statements from the Physical Exercise Working Group of the Italian Society of Nephrology
Authors: Battaglia Yuri , Baciga Federica , Bulighin Francesca , Amicone Maria , Mosconi Giovanni , Storari Alda , Brugnano Rachele , Pozzato Marco , Motta Daria , D’alessandro Claudia , Torino Claudia , Mallamaci Francesca , Cupisti Adamasco , Aucella Filippo , Capitanini Alessandro ,   Working Group of Physical Exercise of Italian Society of Nephrology
Published: September 2024

The Italian Society of Nephrology has tasked its Working Group on Physical Exercise with developing a consensus statement document on physical activity and exercise in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This paper consists of 16 points that were discussed, and approved using the mini-Delphi method by 15 members of the working group. Each statement is based on a comprehensive review of the literature, clinical experience, and expert opinions. Overall, the statements affirm that regular physical activity and exercise training offer numerous benefits to CKD patients, including improved physical function, enhanced cardiometabolic and neuromuscular function, cognitive benefits, and an overall improvement in quality of life. Furthermore, exercise may provide nephroprotection and reduce mortality. These advantages are observed across all CKD stages, whether on conservative therapy or kidney replacement therapy (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis), and in kidney transplant recipients. Moreover, when physical activity and exercise training are implemented with appropriate precautions, they are safe in CKD patients. Gradual physical activity and customized exercise programs should be tailored to the patient's exercise tolerance, potentially enhancing compliance. Clinicians are encouraged to use a series of questionnaires and tests to assess the patient's level of physical activity and performance. However, exercise and physical activity are poorly implemented in clinical practice due to many barriers related to patients and healthcare staff. Overcoming these barriers requires the proactive role of the nephrologists, who should actively incorporate exercise training and promote physical activity within routine care plans. Adopting a multidisciplinary team approach, which includes nephrologists, nurses, exercise professionals, and dietitians, is crucial for providing comprehensive rehabilitation for CKD patients. Integrating new technologies and remote check ups could further enhance the effectiveness of these interventions.

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A Laboratory Evaluation of the Effects of Empathy Training on Racial Bias
Authors: Suarez Victoria D. , Najdowski Adel C. , Persicke Angela , Tarbox Jonathan
Published: September 2024

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effects of behavioral procedures, including relational training and multiple exemplar training on empathic responding of individuals who display racial bias. In particular, this study used a multielement design with five adult participants to evaluate whether the presentation of relational frames of coordination and distinction between the participants’ values and the values of a person belonging to a group for which a bias existed altered empathic responses toward people belonging to such groups. The results showed empathic responding was higher when relational frames of coordination were presented and lower when relational frames of distinction were presented. This study provides preliminary data suggesting that relational training may result in altered patterns of empathic responses toward people belonging to different racial groups for which a bias previously was observed.
Surface and finishing quality exploration of complex cast glass forms produced on disposable moulds
Authors: Ioannidis Menandros , Oikonomopoulou Faidra , Bristogianni Telesilla , Bilow Marcel , Koniari Anna Maria
Published: September 2024

Glass casting displays great forming potential allowing for the realisation of three-dimensional glass elements of virtually any shape and size, as showcased in glass art. Disposable mould technology seems to be ideal for the fabrication of such customised and complex geometries, including for architectural and structural cast glass components deriving from structural topology optimization, since it offers great shape freedom and cost effectiveness. However, currently, glass casting on disposable moulds faces the major drawback of a resulting rough and opaque glass surface quality, requiring considerable post-processing to yield a glossy, smooth surface. This in turn results in a compromised dimensional accuracy and on increased time and production costs. If the surface remains unprocessed, it can greatly affect not only the visual but also the mechanical properties of the cast glass element. Aim of this research is to improve the surface quality of complex glass components cast in disposable moulds, directly during demoulding, reducing in this way the need for post-processing. To achieve this the research focuses on exploring ways to pre-process disposable moulds. In specific, the research focuses on series of kiln-cast laboratory experiments at various maximum firing temperatures / annealing schedules involving the use of two different types of disposable moulds, 3D-printed sand moulds and silica plaster moulds (Crystalcast®), and the application of refractory coatings, coating combinations and protective layers. The experimental work conducted thus far indicates that the best results are obtained at the lowest maximum temperature tested (870 °C), with the combination offering the best finishing quality to be a synthetic (ceramic) sand mould coated with Crystalcast® and Zirkofluid® (6672, 1219). Scaling-up of the kiln-cast prototypes unveils a complex correlation between the maximum dwell time at the maximum firing temperature and the casting effectivity/ performance of mould materials and coatings.
A spectral theorem for compact representations and non-unitary cusp forms
Authors: Deitmar Anton
Published: September 2024

We show that a compact representation of either a semisimple Lie group or a totally disconnected group has a filtration with irreducible subquotients of finite multiplicity. In the Lie group case we show the stronger assertion, that it has an orthogonal decomposition into summands of finite lengths. This generalises and simplifies a number of more special spectral theorems in Deitmar and Monheim (Math Z 284(3–4):1199–1210, 2016, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00209-016-1695-9), Müller (Int Math Res Not 9(2):2068–2109, 2011), Venkov (in: Proceedings of the Steklov Institute of Mathematics, no. 4(153), ix+163 pp. (1983), 1982). We apply it to the case of cusp forms, thus settling the spectral theory for the space of non-unitary twisted cusp forms. We finally show that the space of cusp forms is complemented by the space of Eisenstein series.
The evaluation of wear processes of the rolling-sliding contact by means of flake wear debris in dry and wet contact
Authors: John Antoni , Bąkowski Henryk , Śleziak Bogusław
Published: September 2024

One of the tasks of this paper is to explain the cause-and-effect relationship of the influence of operating parameters on the wear of the wheel-rail system where fatigue processes are initiated. In this way, learning about and defining the nature of the phenomenon, makes it possible to determine the reliability of component operation. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of operational parameters on tribological properties of the rolling-rail contact representing the wheel-rail association in real operating conditions. Determining the form of wear on the basis of laboratory tests carried out on an Amsler-type wear testing machine in the wheel-roller system makes it possible to determine the nature of changes occurring as a result of cyclic interaction of normal and tangential forces on the surface of the tested material, without the need for long-term and costly observation of the tested object in normal operation. Quantitative metallographic analysis of the morphology of wear debris was used to determine the intensity of surface wear. Determination of the influence of operational parameters on the stereological characteristics of wear debris makes it possible to predict the regenerative grinding of rails in service in the track and allows practical application by the sections of operation and diagnosis of the railway system.