bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Simpson’s paradox beyond confounding
Authors: Dong Zili , Cai Weixin , Zhao Shimin 
Published: September 2024

AbstractSimpson’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

AbstractThe 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

AbstractClimate 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

AbstractThis 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

AbstractThe 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.
Graphical abstract
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

AbstractThe 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

AbstractGlass 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

AbstractWe 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

AbstractOne 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.
A Framework for the Use and Likelihood of Regulatory Acceptance of Single-Arm Trials
Authors: Subramaniam Disha , Anderson-Smits Colin , Rubinstein Rebecca , Thai Sydney T. , Purcell Rose , Girman Cynthia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Background
Single-arm clinical trials (SAT) are common in drug and biologic submissions for rare or life-threatening conditions, especially when no therapeutic options exist. External control arms (ECAs) improve interpretation of SATs but pose methodological and regulatory challenges.

Objective
Through narrative reviews and expert input, we developed a framework for considerations that might influence regulatory use and likelihood of regulatory acceptance of an SAT, identifying non-oncology first indication approvals as an area of interest. We systematically analyzed FDA and EMA approvals using SATs as pivotal evidence. The framework guided outcome abstraction on regulatory responses.

Methods
We examined all non-oncology FDA and EMA drug and biologic approvals for first indications from 2019 to 2022 to identify those with SAT as pivotal safety or efficacy evidence. We abstracted outcomes, key study design features, regulator responses to SAT and (where applicable) ECA design, and product label content.

Results
Among 20 SAT-based FDA approvals and 17 SAT-based EMA approvals, most common indications were progressive rare diseases with high unmet need/limited therapeutic options and a natural history without spontaneous improvement. Of the types of comparators, most were natural history cohorts (45% FDA; 47% EMA) and baseline controls (40% FDA; 47% EMA). Common critiques were of non-contemporaneous ECAs, subjective endpoints, and baseline covariate imbalance between arms.

Conclusion
Based on recent FDA and EMA approvals, the likelihood of regulatory success for SATs with ECAs depends on many design, analytic, and data quality considerations. Our framework is useful in early drug development when considering SAT strategies for evidence generation.
Latest Developments in “Adaptive Enrichment” Clinical Trial Designs in Oncology
Authors: Tu Yue , Renfro Lindsay A. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAs cancer has become better understood on the molecular level with the evolution of gene sequencing techniques, considerations for individualized therapy using predictive biomarkers (those associated with a treatment’s effect) have shifted to a new level. In the last decade or so, randomized “adaptive enrichment” clinical trials have become increasingly utilized to strike a balance between enrolling all patients with a given tumor type, versus enrolling only a subpopulation whose tumors are defined by a potential predictive biomarker related to the mechanism of action of the experimental therapy. In this review article, we review recent innovative design extensions and adaptations to adaptive enrichment designs proposed during the last few years in the clinical trial methodology literature, both from Bayesian and frequentist perspectives.
Frege and the Fundamental Abstraction
Authors: Hutchinson Jim 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
According to Charles Travis, Frege’s principle to “always to sharply separate the psychological from the logical, the subjective from the objective” involves a move called “the fundamental abstraction.” I try to explain what this abstraction is and why it is interesting. I then raise a problem for it, and describe what I think is a better way to understand Frege’s principle.
Treating with minerals in the Middle Ages: the rare substance mūmiyāʾ (pitch-asphalt) and its medicinal uses in Byzantium
Authors: Bouras-Vallianatos Petros , Käs Fabian 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPremodern medicine used a variety of mineral substances for therapeutic purposes. The present article deals with pitch-asphalt, and, in particular, a precious kind of it called mūmiyāʾ originating in Persia. It was first described in detail in the Arabic pharmacological tradition, and its fame spread throughout the medieval Mediterranean, including Byzantium. By editing and examining for the first time a previously unexplored medieval Greek text on mūmiyāʾ, this study offers new insights into the medicinal uses of this substance. It also significantly increases our understanding of the intense cross-cultural transfer of medical knowledge from the Islamicate world to Byzantium by showing that this was not merely based on the translation of a few Arabic medical works into Greek, but was a multifaceted phenomenon involving a complex nexus of sources that require further investigation.
Are pro-immigrant messages ineffective? Moralization as a rhetorical strategy for mainstream parties
Authors: Simonsen Kristina Bakkær 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This study contributes to understanding mainstream parties' room for maneuver in the immigration domain by exploring the impact of moralization as a rhetorical strategy. Research has found anti-immigrant messages to be more effective than pro-immigrant messages in shaping public opinion. However, a pre-registered survey experiment with Danish respondents reveals that moral rhetoric enhances policy support for pro-immigrant communication, rendering it as effective as anti-immigrant messages. Partisan-motivated reasoning influences reactions to all messages except the non-moral anti-immigrant message, suggesting that when appealing to out-party supporters, mainstream parties still meet least resistance with an exclusive platform.
ON A PROBLEM OF PONGSRIIAM ON THE SUM OF DIVISORS
Authors: WANG RUI-JING 
Published: September 2024

AbstractFor any positive integer n, let
$\sigma (n)$
be the sum of all positive divisors of n. We prove that for every integer k with
$1\leq k\leq 29$
and
$(k,30)=1,$

$$ \begin{align*} \sum_{n\leq K}\sigma(30n)>\sum_{n\leq K}\sigma(30n+k) \end{align*} $$
for all
$K\in \mathbb {N},$
which gives a positive answer to a problem posed by Pongsriiam [‘Sums of divisors on arithmetic progressions’, Period. Math. Hungar. 88 (2024), 443–460].
Hours With St Jerome
Authors: Pope Hugh 
Published: September 2024

Though perhaps most people who are at all familiar with them appreciate
the writings of St Augustine, comparatively few feel any attraction for
those of St Jerome who, unlike St Augustine, has left us no sermons or
devotional treatises, his work consisting for the most part of technical
Commentaries and minute disquisitions on difficult passages of Holy
Scripture.
Both Saints have left us a vast correspondence. But how their letters
differ! If we except Augustine’s earlier ones, his philosophical discussions
during his first days as a Christian, the remainder are for the most part
the outpourings of a shepherd of souls; the same is true of his sermons
which lend themselves to quotation at every turn and wherein the devout can
always find food for their souls. St Jerome, too, has left us many spiritual
letters. But we get the impression that such letters were not his life’s
work; he writes them almost under protest as though feeling that they are
stealing time from the real work to which God has called him, that of
translating and commenting on the Bible.