bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
X-Ray based Examination of Artworks by Cy Twombly – Art Technology and Condition of the 'Original Sculptures'
Authors: Reinhardt Juliana , Tischer Michaela , Schmid Simon , Kollofrath Jochen , Burger Ruben , Jatzlau Philipp , Bushardt Elisabeth , Goldammer Matthias , Grosse Christian Ulrich 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
What are Cy Twombly’s sculptures made of? This article presents an overview of a non-destructive examination conducted on three sculptures by American artist Cy Twombly (1928–2011) as part of an art-technological research project at the Doerner Institut in Munich. The artworks are part of the collection of the Brandhorst Museum and belong to Twombly’s series of so-called ‘Original Sculptures’: assemblages of individual found objects, which the artist covered and modified with layers of plaster and white paint. To develop a long-time preservation strategy, the research focused on understanding the materials and construction methods used in Twombly's sculptures. In collaboration with the Chair of Non-Destructive Testing at the Technical University of Munich, the artworks were inspected using X-Ray radiography and computed tomography. The results showed that Cy Twombly used various everyday objects made from wood, plastics, metal, and paper/cardboard to build the assemblages. Unexpectedly, the examinations revealed that the individual parts are solely held together by the coating of plaster and paint, lacking additional mechanical connections. The overall structure thus proved to be very fragile and highly sensitive to physical stresses, whether due to handling, transport, or strains in the microstructure caused by climatic fluctuations. Since little was known about Cy Twombly´s choice of materials and manufacturing details, the results offer valuable insights into the overall artistic process and decision-making of one of the most influential artists of the 20th/21st centuries. Conservators can use the art-technological findings to monitor the sculptures‘ condition and develop or adapt long-term preservation strategies, including aspects such as ambient climatic conditions and handling storage and transport specifications. In addition, the knowledge generated can be used for further research on the specific materials and transferred to other artworks by Cy Twombly.
Synergistic design of membrane-based ion separation and solar-driven evaporation for direct lithium extraction from salt-lake brine
Authors: Jin Jian , Zhang Shenxiang , Wei Xian , Cao Xue , Peng Meiwen , Jiang Lin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The demand for lithium extraction from salt-lake brines is increasing to address the global lithium supply shortage. Nanofiltration membrane-based separation technology with high Mg2+/Li+ separation efficiency has shown great potential for lithium extraction. However, it usually requires diluting the brine with a large quantity of freshwater in the pre-treatment stage and only yields Li+-enriched solution. Inspired by the process of selective water/ion uptake and salt secretion in mangroves, we report here the direct extraction of lithium chloride (LiCl) powder from salt-lake brines by utilizing the synergistic effect of ion separation membrane and solar-driven evaporator. The ion separation membrane-based solar evaporator is a sandwich structure consisting of an upper photothermal layer to evaporate water, a hydrophilic macroporous membrane in the middle to generate capillary pressure as the driving force for water transport, and an ultrathin ion separation membrane at the bottom to allow Li+ to pass through and block other multivalent ions. This process exhibits outstanding lithium extraction capability. LiCl powder with a purity of 94.2% can be directly collected on the surface of the evaporator. When treating simulated salt-lake brine with ion concentration as high as 348.4 g L− 1, the Mg2+/Li+ ratio is reduced by 66 times (from 19.8 to 0.3). This research combines ion separation with solar-driven evaporation to directly obtain LiCl powder, providing a new and efficient approach for lithium extraction.
Comparative Study on Knowledge, Attitude and Other Perceived Factors towards Research among UG Optometry Students: Indian versus International Scenario
Authors: Pant Kamal , Khan Salal 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Aim/Purpose
The purpose of this study is to compare & assess the knowledge, attitude and perceived factors towards research amongst UG Optometry studentsin India with International scenario. And the other aim is to create awareness and spread knowledge about research in Optometry among UG students.
Methodology
A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among Indian & International UG Optometry students.A modified questionnaire was used to collect data from Indian and International UG optometry students through online Google form which was circulated electronically. All the collected data was processed and analysed by Chi-square test & one-way ANOVA in SPSS version 21.
Results
It was found that out of 154 subjects [(77 Indian & 77 Abroad), Male-60% & 30% while Female-40% & 70% respectively], 36 Indian subjects (46.7%) & 61 Abroad subjects (79.2%) were having an idea to conduct research while 72 (93.5%) & 62 (80.5%) were having interest towards research respectively.
Individuals having Research as a subject in their academic curriculum were 37.6% & 75.3% whereas individuals knowing the importance of research were 77.9% & 92.2% in India and Abroad respectively.
The common perceived factors including, Inadequate support by mentor/ faculty (27% & 27%), Inadequate motivation (28.6% & 32.5%), Inadequate financial support (27.3% & 31.2%), Lack of time (13%& 49.4%), research methodology is difficult to understand (9.1% & 20.8%), need of adequate training (36.3% & 28.6%), lack of skills and knowledge (35.1% & 37.7%), lack of interest (22.1% &27.3%), problem in performing research (39% & 23.4%) and not have any opportunities to take part in research (24.7% & 13%) were observed in Indian and Abroad subjects respectively.
All factors mentioned were found to be statistically significant (p<0.05) with the Pearson Chi-square & one-way ANOVA test in SPSS version 21.
Conclusion
Most students had a positive attitude or interest towards the eye health research but Indian students were lacking the good number of resources in comparison to abroad students. So, a positive and supportive environment (including availability of optimum resources) is needed to improve skills & knowledge about research amongst UG optometry students during their academic life.
In addition, there is a need to create awareness among optometry students about the importance of research to overcome the barriers of optometry research. This way research awareness and positive frame of mind for research will help in uplifting the Optometry profession in India.
A Novel Mechanism of 16α-OHE1, One of Estrogen Metabolites, Alleviating Inflammatory Infiltration in Hypoxia-Induced Myocardial Injury via β2-Adrenergic Receptor
Authors: Zhou Yequan , Yin Zeyuan , Cui Junchao , Cao Zhonghui , Wang Cheng , Gao Xiao , He Shimin , Fu Tong , Fu Lu , Zhou Xueyan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Objective The study aimed to investigate the protective effect of 16α-OHE1 on myocardial injury caused by hypoxia.Methods and results Rats were exposed to normoxia or hypoxia conditions simulating an high altitude of 6000 m in a low-pressure chamber for 7 days. Post-exposure, evaluations were made on cardiac function, myocardial enzyme concentrations, histopathological modifications, inflammatory infiltration, and β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) expression levels. In parallel, H9C2 cells were cultured under standard oxygen conditions or in a three-gas incubator containing 5% O2 for 24 h. Cell viability, apoptosis, inflammatory infiltration, and myocardial enzyme levels in H9C2 cells were measured. Hypoxia induced significant myocardial damage, marked by impaired cardiac function, myocardial structural changes, inflammatory infiltration, and increased apoptosis. Pre-treatment with 16α-OHE1 significantly improved heart function and reduced myocardial enzyme release. The increased inflammatory response was also significantly suppressed. In addition to preserving myocardial structures, hypoxia-induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes was significantly weakened. Notably, these protective effects of 16α-OHE1 were linked with the upregulation of β2AR expression. However, when β2AR was inhibited by ICI 118,551, the protective effect of 16α-OHE1 on the myocardium was abrogated.Conclusion 16α-OHE1 could reduce hypoxia-induced myocardial injury in rats through β2-adrenoceptors.
A microbial flora with superior pollutant removal efficiency and its fermentation process optimization
Authors: Li yonghong , Wu xiuxiu , Wang yun , Gao yingman , li keke 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Microbial flora plays an important role in microorganism-enhanced technology. The pollutant degradation ability and viable counts of these agents are crucial to guarantee their practical application. In this study, an efficient pollutant-degrading microbial flora was screened, its medium components and culture conditions were optimized, and its effect was verified in zeolite trickling filter towers. After a 24 h culture under the optimal conditions, the viable count reached 4.76×109 cfu/mL, with the degradation rates of ammonia nitrogen (NH4+-N), nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and chemical oxygen demand (COD) increased to 93.5%, 100%, 68.3%, 32.6%, and 85%, respectively. After optimizing the feeding strategy, the concentration of viable bacteria reached 5.80×109 cfu/mL. In the application effect verification experiment, the degradation rates of NH4+-N, TN, TP, and COD in the experimental group reached 96.69%, 75.18%, 73.82%, and 90.83%, respectively, showing a significant improvement compared to the results of the control group. The main components in the control group were Dokdonella, Brevundimonas, Alishewanella, Rhodobacter, Pseudoxanthomonas, and Thauera, whereas those in the experimental group were Dokdonella, Proteocatella, Rhodobacter, Dechlomonas, and Nitrospira. Proteocatella, Dechlomonas, and Nitrosra, which were unique to the experimental group, are common bacteria used for nitrogen and phosphorus removal. This explains the difference in the sewage treatment capacity between the two groups. This study provides an alternative sewage treatment microbial flora with a reasonable production cost and high degradation efficiency for NH4+-N, TN, TP, and COD.
Comparative transcriptome analysis of differentially expressed genes in the ovary and testis and identification of transformer-2 gene of the corn pest, Athetis dissimilis
Authors: Song Yue-Qin , Han Sheng-Jie , Zhang Tian-Si , He Hao-Hao , Sun Huizhong 
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Insect sex determination is extremely complex and requires the mutual regulation of multiple genes. By sequencing the testis and ovary transcriptomes, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which could provide reference for breeding male sterile lines to control the insect population in the future. A total of 11065 DEGs between the males and females ofAthetis dissimiliswere identified, of which 6685 genes were up-regulated and 4380 genes were down-regulated in females. By searching all-DEGs against COG, GO, KEGG, KOG, Pfam, Swiss-Prot, eggNOG and nr databases obtained in a total of 6656 annotated DEGs. In the nr search results, we obtained a sex-related transformer-2 gene, namedAdisTra-2. With other species aligned sequence found that Adistr-2 protein had a highly conserved RRM domain. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Adistra-2 protein was a close relative to of the lepidoptera tra-2 protein. The qRT-PCR of different states expression pattern showed that theAdistra-2was abundant in egg period. About tissue-specific expression, theAdistra-2expression was the highest in the ovary. This work provides a theoretical reference for the sex differentiation and genetic manipulation of this insect.
Carcinoembryonic antigen potentiates non-small cell lung cancer progression via PKA-PGC1ɑ axis
Authors: Lei Juan , wu lei , Zhang Nan , Liu Xudong , Zhang Jiangang , Kuang Liwen , Chen Jiongming , Chen Yijiao , Li Dairong , Li Yongsheng 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a tumor-associated antigen primarily produced by tumor cells. CEA has been reported to be involved in various biological processes, including cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and metastasis. However, the impact of CEA on the tumor immune escape remains largely unknown.
Methods
The A549 tumor-bearing mouse models were established to investigate the role of CEA during tumor progression. CCK-8 assay, Colony formation assay, ELISA, immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry analysis were used to assess the role of CEA on fatty acid metabolism and proliferation of A549 and H1299 cells.
Results
In this study, we demonstrate that CEA promotes the proliferation and migration of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Our findings indicate that CEA enhances NSCLC proliferation and migration through the activation of fatty acid metabolism-related genes and PGC1 expression. Mechanistically, CEA promotes PGC1 expression via the PKA-PGC1ɑ signaling pathway. Inhibition of the PKA-PGC1ɑ signaling pathway attenuates CEA-induced proliferation and migration of NSCLC. Interestingly, we also observed that inhibition of PGC1α downregulates the expression of PD-L1 in NSCLC.
Conclusion
These results reveal the involvement of CEA in fatty acid metabolism during lung cancer development and highlight its impact on immunotherapy of NSCLC.
Effects of foot and ankle mobilisations combined with home stretches in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a proof-of-concept RCT.
Authors: LEPESIS VASILEIOS , Paton Joanne , Rickard Alec , Latour Jos , Marsden Jonathan 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction
People with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and limited joint mobility syndrome (LJMS) can experience increased forefoot peak plantar pressures (PPPs), a known risk factor for ulceration. The aim of this study was to investigate whether ankle and 1st metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint mobilisations and home stretches in people with DPN improve joint range of motion (ROM) and reduce forefoot PPPs.
Design and methods
Sixty-one people with DPN (IWGDF risk 2), were randomly assigned to a 6-week programme of ankle and 1st MTP joint mobilisations (n = 31) and home stretches or standard care only (n = 30). At baseline (T0); 6-week post intervention (T1) and at 3 months follow-up (T2), a blinded assessor recorded dynamic ankle dorsiflexion range using 3D (Codamotion) motion analysis and the weight bearing lunge test, static 1st MTP joint, dynamic plantar pressure and balance.
Results
No significant differences in dynamic ankle dorsiflexion were found between both groups. A statistically significant difference was observed in ankle dorsiflexion range in both feet across time between groups (Left 1.52cm and 2.9cms, Right 1.62cm and 2.7cm) at 6 (T1) and 18 weeks (T2) respectively p < 0.01). Between both groups, a significant increase in functional reach was observed (T1 = 3.13cm p < 0.05 and T2 = 3.9cm p < 0.01). Between group differences were seen in left hallux dorsiflexion (2.75°, p < 0.05) at T1 and in right hallux dorsiflexion (4.9°, p < 0.01) at T2 follow up. No significant between group differences were found for peak plantar pressure or postural sway. Intervention adherence was high (80%).
Conclusions
Combining ankle and 1st MTP joint mobilisations with home stretches in a 6-week programme in people with DPN is effective in increasing static measures of range. This intervention may be useful for improving ankle, hallux joint mobility and anteroposterior stability limits in people with diabetes and neuropathy but not for reducing PPP or foot ulcer risk.
Trial registration
https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03195855
Academia’s Responses to COVID-19: Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis on Online Learning of Medical Students
Authors: Zhang Pei , Li Xiuyuan , Pan Ying , Zhai Haihun , Li Tian 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to investigate research hotspots and future direction in the online learning of medical students around the globe during COVID-19 via bibliometric and visualization analyses.
Methods
Bibliometric analysis and visual mapping were used to analyze relevant publications. Cite Space 6.1.R3 was used to generate a network visualization map to evaluate cooperation between countries, institutions, and authors.
Results
Since 2020, a total of 2,582 publications were enrolled. The visualization results show that academic achievements in online learning research benefit from a global collaborative foundation. The United States occupies the core position. Another prominent result is that Chinese authors have made outstanding contributions to online learning research. Findings of co-cited references indicated that the most influential co-cited author and academic teams investigated a wide array of topics, such as online learning practice, academic theories and models, redesigned curriculum of different disciplines, psychological impacts of the pandemic, and the future challenge of reshaping lifelong learning. Keyword co-occurrence analysis shows that the research during the COVID-19 pandemic can be roughly divided into three stages.
Conclusion
Given that evolution path of the past three years–and the experience generated during the Covid era–that online learning will be further developed and applied in the post COVID-19 era.There is a trend that all medical subjects will be taught with some hybrid delivery systems. More over, the evolution trajectory of online learning will be direct to more autonomous, more advanced technology and method involved,and more extensive cooperation.
Polyoxometalate decorated gold nanoparticles inhibit β -amyloid aggregation and cross the blood brain barrier in a µphysiological model
Authors: Perich Marta Perxés , Palma-Florez Sujey , Solé Clara , Goberna-Ferrón Sara , Samitier Josep , Gómez-Romero Pedro , Mir Mònica , Lagunas Anna 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the combination of several neuropathological hallmarks such as extracellular aggregates of beta amyloid (Aβ). Numerous alternatives have been studied for inhibiting Aβ aggregation but at this moment there are no effective treatments available. Here, we developed the tri-component nanohybrid system AuNPs@POM@PEG, based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) covered with polyoxometalates (POMs) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). In this work, AuNPs@POM@PEG demonstrated to inhibit the formation of amyloid fibrils showing a 75% decrease in Aβ aggregation in vitro. As a potential candidate for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, we evaluated the cytotoxicity and ability of the AuNPs@POM@PEG to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). We achieved a stable nanosystem that is non-cytotoxic below 2.5 nM to human neurovascular cells. The brain permeability of AuNPs@POM@PEG was analyzed in an in vitromicrophysiological model of the BBB (BBB-on-a-chip), containing 3D human neurovascular cell co-culture and microfluidics. Results showed that AuNPs@POM@PEG was able to cross the brain endothelial barrier in the chip and demonstrated that POM does not affect the barrier integrity, giving green light to further studies as nanotherapeutic system.
Biomechanical Causes for Failure of The Physiomesh™/Securestrap™ System in IPOM procedure. Ex-vivo experimental study.
Authors: Zamkowski Mateusz , Tomaszewska Agnieszka , Lubowiecka Izabela , Śmietański Maciej 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
BACKGROUND
This study investigates the mechanical behavior of the Physiomesh™/Securestrap™ system, a hernia repair system used for IPOM procedures associated with high failure rates.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The study involved conducting mechanical experiments and numerical simulations to investigate the mechanical behavior of the Physiomesh™/Securestrap™ system under pressure load. Uniaxial tension tests were conducted to determine the elasticity modulus of the Physiomesh™ in various directions and the strength of the mesh-tissue-staple junction. Ex-vivo experiments on porcine abdominal wall models were performed to observe the system's behavior under simulated intra-abdominal pressure load. Numerical simulations using finite element analysis were employed to support the experimental findings.
RESULTS
The results reveal nonlinearity, anisotropy, and non-homogeneity in the mechanical properties of the Physiomesh™, with stress concentration observed in the polydioxanone (PDO) strip. The mesh-tissue junction exhibited inadequate fixation strength, leading to staple pull-out or breakage. The ex-vivo models demonstrated failure under higher pressure loads. Numerical simulations supported these findings, revealing the reaction forces exceeding the experimentally determined strength of the mesh-tissue-staple junction.
CONCLUSIONS
The implications of this study extend beyond the specific case of the Physiomesh™/Securestrap™ system, providing insights into the mechanics of implant-tissue systems. By considering biomechanical factors, researchers and clinicians can make informed decisions to develop improved implants that mimic the mechanics of a healthy abdominal wall. This knowledge can contribute to better surgical outcomes and reduce complications in abdominal hernia repair and to avoid similar failures in future.
Silica-Amorphous Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Induced Removal of Rhodamine B from Water
Authors: Ray U. , Sarkar S. , Sharma P. , Dhariwal A , Jha A. , Das N. S. , Kumar S. , Banerjee D. , Chattopadhyay K K 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Present work reports the synthesis of amorphous carbon nanotube-Silica (a-CNT-SiO2) hybrids by a simple cost friendly method. The as synthesized samples were characterized by instruments like XRD, FESEM, FTIR spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The XRD spectra confirm the proper phase formation of the sample whereas the FESEM micrographs reveal that the samples have been developed in the cluster form.
FTIR spectra reveals that there are several absorption peaks present these are mainly assigned to the Si-Si, Si-O, Si-H, C-C, C=C, C=O, C-Hn or OH bonds.
Raman spectra of the pure and hybrid samples have also been studied in detail.
From the application point of view both the pure and hybrid samples have shown good efficacy in removing dyes like rhodamine B with efficiency over 90 % within just 45 minutes. Kinetic studies confirmed that the reaction mostly followed pseudo 1st order mechanism
The Role of AI and Virtual Reality in Fostering Environmental Awareness and Activism in College Students
Authors: Cao FeiFei , Jian Yirong 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
The pressing need to include the next generation in environmental protection initiatives in light of growing worries about the destructive effects of human activities on the planet The purpose of this research is to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) may be used to raise college students' environmental consciousness and encourage them to take action on environmental issues. A total of 400 students from different socioeconomic backgrounds participated in the research over the course of six months. The created methodology integrates AI and VR to provide an interactive and engaging lesson on environmental education and advocacy. The research shows that teaching about environmental challenges using AI and VR technology greatly improves students' understanding of these topics. The concept also helps people develop conservationist values and inspires them to become involved in environmental advocacy. Using artificial intelligence and virtual reality in environmental education may be an effective way to get young people invested in environmental sustainability. In conclusion, the research presented here demonstrates that integrating artificial intelligence and virtual reality into environmental education might lead to a more environmentally conscious and conscientious populace.