Vitalism Research Articles

“Sirens” by Joyce and the Joys of Sirin: Lilac, Sounds, Temptations

The article is devoted to the musical context of the works of James Joyce and Vladimir Nabokov. Joyce’s Ulysses, one of the most important literary texts of the twentieth century, is filled with musical allusions and various musical techniques. The chapter “Sirens” is the most interesting in this context as it features a “musical” form and contains a large number of musical quotations. The myth of the singing sirens, recreated by Joyce in images and characters from the modern world, encapsulates the idea of erotic seduction, bringing threat and doom to the seduced. Joyce offers a new version of the sea world filled with music, creating a system of musical leitmotifs and lexical patterns within the text. Developing the themes of temptation, the danger that temptation entails, doom, uniting with the vital forces of the world, and loneliness, Joyce in “Sirens” reveals the semantics of music, showing the specific nature of its effect on listeners. Vladimir Nabokov, who praised Ulysses and devoted a lecture to “Sirens”, is much less musical than Joyce. However, he, like Joyce, also refers to the images of singing sirens and the accompanying images of the aquatic world. One of the central, meaning-making signs in his work is the “Sirin complex”, his pseudonym. This sign, which refers to a large number of pretexts, refers in particular to the lilac (siren’) and to the mythological “musical” sirens. As in Joyce’s work, sirens are present in his texts as mermaids and naiads, or as figures of seducers who fulfil their function and bring doom. Joyce and Nabokov are also united by the presence of recurrent leitmotifs, lexical patterns, and the presence of auditory impressions in their text that are evoked by the sound of the everyday world.

Elucidating the Role of circTIAM1 in Guangling Large-Tailed Sheep Adipocyte Proliferation and Differentiation via the miR-485-3p/PLCB1 Pathway.

Fat tissue-a vital energy storage organ-is intricately regulated by various factors, including circular RNA, which plays a significant role in modulating fat development and lipid metabolism. Therefore, this study aims to clarify the regulatory mechanism of sheep adipocyte proliferation and differentiation by investigating the involvement of circTIAM1, miR-485-3p, and its target gene PLCB1. Through previous sequencing data, circTIAM1 was identified in sheep adipocytes, with its circularization mechanism elucidated, confirming its cytoplasmic localization. Experimental evidence from RNase R treatment and transcription inhibitors highlighted that circTIAM1 is more stable than linear RNA. Additionally, circTIAM1 promoted sheep adipocyte proliferation and differentiation. Furthermore, bioinformatic analysis demonstrated a robust interaction between miR-485-3p and circTIAM1. Further experiments revealed that miR-485-3p inhibits fat cell proliferation and differentiation by inhibiting PLCB1, with circTIAM1 alleviating the inhibitory effect via competitive binding. In summary, our findings elucidate the mechanism through which circTIAM1 regulates Guangling Large-Tailed sheep adipocyte proliferation and differentiation via the miR-485-3p-PLCB1 pathway, offering a novel perspective for further exploring fat metabolism regulation.

Assessing the impact of agriculture, coal mining, and ecological restoration on water sustainability in the Mu Us Sandyland

Balancing water demand for socio–economic development and ecosystem stability presents a challenge for regional sustainable management, especially in drylands. Previous studies have indicated that large–scale ecological restoration projects (ERPs) lead to a decline in terrestrial water storage (TWS) in the Mu Us Sandyland (MUS). However, the effects of other human activities (e.g., cropland reclamation, coal mining) on water resources remain unclear, raising concerns regarding water crisis and human–natural system sustainability. Through the utilization of coal mine location data, we found that the impact of coal mass loss on the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) products cannot be ignored in MUS, especially in the coal–rich northeastern part. Combining these data with auxiliary datasets, we observed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in TWS (−0.85 cm yr−1) and groundwater storage (GWS, −0.95 cm yr−1) in the MUS, with human activities accounting for 79.23 % of TWS and 90.45 % of GWS reductions, primarily due to increased agricultural and industrial water consumption. Agricultural water consumption increased 2.23 times from 2001 to 2020, attributed to enhanced water use intensity (62.6 %) and cropland expansion (37.4 %). Industrial water consumption in Shenmu, a representative coal county, experienced a 4.16–fold rise between 2001 and 2020. Despite these challenges, local governments have alleviated water stress, ensured food security, and increased household income by comprehensive management strategies, such as enhancing water–saving technology and enforcing stringent policies. Previous studies have overestimated the amount of water resources consumed by ERPs. However, ERPs has played a critical role in stabilizing the regional ecological environment and ensuring the region as a vital food and energy supplier. Our findings can guide for socio-economic development and water management policies in similar regions.

A narrative review on rebound acid hypersecretion due to long-term use of proton pump inhibitors

Objectives Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the most commonly used drugs to reduce hyperacidity. The usage of PPIs reduces the secretion of gastric juice; their prolonged usage results in gastric acid suppression with hypergastrinemia while their stoppage results in hypersecretion of gastric juice. This kind of paradoxical reaction is seen in the rebound effect of drugs. Dr. Samuel Hahnemann gave us the vital principles of homeopathy, the law of similitude, i.e., “similia similibus curentur” derived from the “Nature’s Law of Cure”. This also tells us that the primary action of medicine stimulates the dynamic expression of an organism (vital force), which results in the counteraction called secondary action by the organism. Material and Methods Review of literature on the effects of long-term use of PPIs and rebound hypersecretion of gastric juice due to PPIs. Results For this review article, 16 most relevant articles are selected from the search results. Thirteen systematic reviews, two randomized control trials, and one pilot study are included. Rebound acid hypersecretion (RAHS) occurs after prolonged treatment with histamine-2 blockers and PPIs, causing gastric hypoacidity and hypergastrinemia. Longer PPI durations can result in prolonged hypersecretion, with moderate hypergastrinemia and increased enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cell hyperplasia. Deprescribing PPIs is crucial to reduce RAHS and safety concerns. Long-term usage can lead to nutritional deficiencies, respiratory infections, and bone fractures. Conclusion Homeopathic remedies have shown significant results in treating symptoms caused due to gastritis, ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease, etc., and further research is needed to reduce RAHS caused due to the long-term use of PPIs.

An Analysis of the Obligations of COMESA Public Procurement Regulations: The Case of Zimbabwe’s Public Procurement Regulatory Framework

With the coming into force of the new Constitution in 2013, public procurement was given a constitutional status in Zimbabwe. The Constitution sets out vital principles that public procurement legislation must comply with. Moreover, it is a requirement of the Constitution that the governance of Zimbabwe must be pursued in accordance with Zimbabwe’s international law obligations. Zimbabwe is a founding member of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA). To accelerate interstate trade, COMESA promulgated Public Procurement Regulations (PPR) for regional competitive bidding across member states. The viability of the regional trade agreements is hinged on mutual cooperation. Pursuant to the foregoing, member states are required to domesticate international agreements into their municipal laws. In 2017, the Zimbabwean legislature passed the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act 5 to give effect to the provisions of section 315(1) of the Constitution (Amendment No. 20), 2013. The public procurement reform agenda in Zimbabwe occurred close to a decade after the adoption of the public procurement regulations by COMESA in 2009. This article explores the obligations imposed on Zimbabwe pursuant to the public procurement regulations. This is done by identifying the public procurement principles enumerated in public procurement regulations, which are binding on member states. This article endeavours to answer the question: To what extent does the Zimbabwean legal framework conform to public procurement regulations? This article notes that the legal framework underlying public procurement in Zimbabwe, by and large, conforms to the bar set in the public procurement regulations. Nonetheless, it highlights Zimbabwe’s public procurement shortcomings. The article concludes by making possible legislative recommendations.

Ginsenoside Rg1 alleviates chronic inflammation-induced neuronal ferroptosis and cognitive impairments via regulation of AIM2 - Nrf2 signaling pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceGinseng is a valuable herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Modern research has shown that it has various benefits, including tonifying vital energy, nourishing and strengthening the body, calming the mind, improving cognitive function, regulating fluids, and returning blood pressure, etc. Rg1 is a primary active component of ginseng. It protects hippocampal neurons, improves synaptic plasticity, enhances cognitive function, and boosts immunity. Furthermore, it exhibits anti-aging and anti-fatigue properties and holds great potential for preventing and managing neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Aim of the studyThe objective of this study was to examine the role of Rg1 in treating chronic inflammatory NDDs and its molecular mechanisms. Materials and methodsIn vivo, we investigated the protective effects of Rg1 against chronic neuroinflammation and cognitive deficits in mice induced by 200 μg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 21 days using behavioral tests, pathological sections, Western blot, qPCR and immunostaining. In vitro experiments involved the stimulation of HT22 cells with 10 μg/ml of LPS, verification of the therapeutic effect of Rg1, and elucidation of its potential mechanism of action using H2DCFDA staining, BODIPY™ 581/591 C11, JC-1 staining, Western blot, and immunostaining. ResultsFirstly, it was found that Rg1 significantly improved chronic LPS-induced behavioral and cognitive dysfunction in mice. Further studies showed that Rg1 significantly attenuated LPS-induced neuronal damage by reducing levels of IL-6, IL-1β and ROS, and inhibiting AIM2 inflammasome. Furthermore, chronic LPS exposure induced the onset of neuronal ferroptosis by increasing the lipid peroxidation product MDA and regulating the ferroptosis-associated proteins Gpx4, xCT, FSP1, DMT1 and TfR, which were reversed by Rg1 treatment. Additionally, Rg1 was found to activate Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant enzymes, such as HO1 and NQO1, both in vivo and in vitro. In vitro studies also showed that the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 could inhibit the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-ferroptosis effects of Rg1. ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that Rg1 administration ameliorated chronic LPS-induced cognitive deficits and neuronal ferroptosis in mice by inhibiting neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. The underlying mechanisms may be related to the inhibition of AIM2 inflammasome and activation of Nrf2 signaling. These findings provide valuable insights into the treatment of chronic neuroinflammation and associated NDDs.

Embedded piezoelectric actuation method for enhanced solar wings vibration control

The solar wing is a vital energy component of spacecraft. It often faces challenges from vibrations and deformations during orbit, impacting spacecraft pointing accuracy and operational performance. To address these issues, a novel actuation method based on embedded piezoelectric actuator (EPA) is proposed in this study, which overcomes the technical difficulties of large additional mass and volume, and low control effectiveness. Firstly, a sandwich stacked EPA is meticulously designed and embedded into the connecting rod based on comprehensive analysis. Secondly, a novel modeling using the transfer matrix method improves the computational accuracy and the evaluation efficiency. Finally, a prototype of the EPA is fabricated, and the measurement system is constructed. The correctness of the modeling and the feasibility of the design are verified by case studies. The applications of the EPA for active vibration control are verified by additional case studies of the connecting rod and the scaled solar wing prototype, respectively. The results reveal the amplitude reduction rates at the natural frequency are 97.36% and 97.48% in the XOZ plane and YOZ plane, respectively, with residual disturbances limited to only 0.03 mm. The exemplary outcomes solidify the exceptional performance of the proposed embedded piezoelectric actuation method for the active vibration control of solar wings. This novel method holds great promise for enhancing spacecraft stability and performance.

Formal leadership perceptions about the autonomy of Pharmacy: a SWOT analysis

Introduction: Autonomy is considered a vital principle of professionalism. In recent years, despite important advances, the Pharmacy and pharmacists' autonomy has been questioned due to conflicts that jeopardize the consolidation of this profession in the division of work in health. Objective: to understand the construct of autonomy based on perceptions of formal leaders associated with professional organizations. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted through interviews with key informants. The data obtained were submitted to content analysis. Results: Perceptions about the autonomy in pharmaceutical practice were categorized according to strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to this construct. Conclusion: The findings allowed us to understand the autonomy of pharmaceutical practice in Brazil, generate hypotheses about the future of Pharmacy, and build strategies to maintain its occupational status.

INTEGRATING THE ARCTIC INTO THE BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE: ECONOMIC INTERACTIONS BETWEEN CHINA AND RUSSIA

This article delves into the intricate web of Sino-Russian cooperation within the Arctic, spotlighting the synergistic ventures like the Yamal LNG project as emblematic of broader collaboration in energy, infrastructure development, and geopolitical strategy. It outlines China's proactive stance in leveraging Arctic resources and the Northern Sea Route (NSR) to diversify its energy supply and integrate this polar pathway into its monumental "Belt and Road" initiative. Despite geographical remoteness, China's burgeoning interest in Arctic affairs, primarily driven by economic, geopolitical, and environmental objectives, underscores a strategic alignment with Russia's Arctic dominion. However, this partnership navigates through a spectrum of collaborative and contentious dynamics, particularly around Arctic governance, environmental stewardship, and the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources. While Russia gains investment and technological prowess, enhancing its sovereignty over Arctic navigation and resource utilization, China secures a vital energy lifeline and asserts its global maritime ambitions. Nonetheless, divergent views on Arctic governance and environmental policies pose challenges to this alliance. The article posits that despite these ideological divergences, the mutual benefits of Sino-Russian cooperation in the Arctic will likely foster a stronger, more integrated partnership, potentially reshaping Arctic geopolitics and global energy markets.

Search for the Soul of Black Preaching

This article examines Black preaching as a vital force in African American communities, offering a powerful testament to resilience, spiritual enlightenment, and social transformation. Black preaching emerges as a beacon of hope and resistance amidst oppressive conditions, weaving together theological insight, cultural richness, and communal resilience. Through a rich historical lens, the article explores the performative and substantive dimensions of Black preaching, highlighting its capacity to navigate complex theological and social realities. While acknowledging moments of complicity and challenge within Black preaching, this article emphasizes its enduring legacy as a catalyst for liberation and justice. Ultimately, Black preaching emerges as a dynamic expression of faith, embodying the enduring struggle for dignity, justice, and freedom within the African American experience.

Unveiling Micro Entrepreneurs’ Insights on Mudra Scheme in Karnataka

In light of the Indian government’s increasing efforts to foster entrepreneurship among its youth through various financial supports and schemes, it is now an opportune moment to assess the efficacy of initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship in the country. This study seeks to elucidate the perspectives of micro-entrepreneurs regarding the support provided by the Mudra Schemes for the advancement of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).This Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) scheme in Karnataka has proven to be vital force in supporting micro entrepreneurs, addressing their financial needs and fostering economic growth. This study, based on primary and secondary data, explores the perceptions of micro entrepreneur who have benefited from Mudra loans. The scheme’s components, Shishu, Kishore and Tarun – cater to various financial needs from initial business expenses to expansion and renovation. The analysis of micro entrepreneurs perspectives identify the sentiments towards the MUDRA scheme, and contribution to micro business growth, pubic awareness, processing time and willingness to recommend others. However challenges in availing MUDRA loans and certain aspects of the terms and conditions will be identified as areas for improvement.

In Vitro Immunomodulatory Activity of Sagalanoi Chooranam (Poly Herbal Formulation) in RAW Macrophage Cell Line

Within the realm of Siddha medicine, an ancient and venerable traditional healing system hailing from India, a comprehensive methodology is deployed to combat liver disorders. This approach is characterised by the utilisation of herbal remedies, accentuating the reinstatement of equilibrium in the body's vital life force, known as "Vatham," "Pitham," and "Kapham." The utilisation of cell line studies is crucial in assessing the immunomodulatory properties of herbal medicine, offering invaluable insights into their capacity to influence the immune system and advancing our comprehension of their therapeutic benefits. The primary objective of this investigation was to elucidate the potential immunomodulatory properties of sagalanoi chooranam, a polyherbal Siddha formulation, through the execution of anti-proliferative assays conducted. On the RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. Various test solutions were precisely prepared, encompassing a spectrum of concentrations (50, 100 and 200 μg/ml). The RAW 264.7 cells were diligently cultured and then carefully subjected to stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to initiate cellular activation. Following this activation, the test formulation was introduced at varying concentrations, after which the cells underwent a 24-hour incubation period. The resultant nitrite levels, serving as indicators of immunomodulatory response, were evaluated within the cell lysate. The outcomes unveiled a notable decline in nitrite levels, correlating with the dosage of the test formulation during the incubation with RAW 264.7 cells. The outcomes of the study elucidate a conspicuous decline in nitrite levels in direct correlation with escalating concentrations of the test formulation, contrasting starkly with the control group exclusively subjected to LPS. Furthermore, the investigation meticulously probed the ramifications of the test formulation on cellular viability. The vitality of RAW 264.7 cells exhibited a discernible downward trajectory as the concentration of the test formulation ascended. Noteworthy is the fact that, at the concentration of 200 μg/ml, cellular viability registered at a mere 55.53 ± 3.567%. Collectively, these findings lend credence to the hypothesis that the test formulation possesses a dose-dependent capacity to attenuate both nitrite levels and cellular viability within the RAW 264.7 cell milieu, underscoring its auspicious immunomodulatory attributes. This research expands our insights into the potential immunological ramifications of the test formulation and underscores its plausible utility within the realm of immunomodulation.

Examples of Professor MA Kun's treatment of infertility caused by uterine fibroids using method of tonifying kidney and activating blood

Uterine fibroids are a prevalent factor that impacts fertility in women of reproductive age. This study discusses the theoretical foundation and formula principles of Professor MA Kun's clinical treatment for infertility caused by uterine fibroids. The kidney stores essence and is responsible for reproduction, while blood serves as a vital material basis for women's physiological functions. Kidney deficiency is the fundamental pathogenesis of infertility, and imbalances in kidney Qi and essence or deficiencies in kidney Yin and Yang can result in blood stasis. Blood stasis plays a significant role throughout this condition by impeding the flow of blood, which is crucial for nourishing Qi. Therefore, both kidney deficiency and blood stasis are key factors contributing to infertility caused by uterine fibroids. Professor MA Kun treats infertility caused by uterine fibroids using an approach that involves tonifying the kidneys and activating blood circulation based on changes in Qi and blood during the menstrual cycle as well as follicular growth processes. By identifying stage-specific evidence, appropriate treatments can be applied accordingly. During menstruation when the uterus opens and menstrual blood flows out, promoting follicular development through nourishing kidney Yin and activating blood circulation becomes essential. In later stages of menstruation, additional measures are taken to remove blood stasis, alleviate symptoms, disperse knots, attack pathogens while simultaneously replenishing vital energy. During intermenstrual periods when Yin holds greater importance than Yang, tonifying the kidneys and activating blood circulation helps facilitate smooth discharge of eggs by promoting transformation between Yin and Yang energies. Premenstrual period to warm kidney Yang to promote pregnant egg implantation, and at the same time to dredge the liver and regulate Qi, Qi elimination stagnation, complementary in the line, with the symptoms of additional subtractions. Clinical effect is remarkable, for the reference of colleagues.

The importance of the health motive in undertaking sports and recreational activities by Austrian school students compared to other motives

Sports and recreational activity is an important element of an effective use of their free time by children and school youth. In contrast to competitive sports, which focus on achieving maximum sports results through intense competition, sports and recreational activity should be assessed mainly in terms of its health benefits. Sports and recreational behaviour can be analysed in the context of psychophysical development, personality development, regeneration of vital forces, contact with nature, active rest and relaxation. The literature on the subject distinguishes various motives for undertaking sports and recreational activity, the most important of which include: pleasure, relaxation, health, aesthetic values, physical fitness and social aspects. This work aims to examine what motives guide Austrian school youth when undertaking sports and recreational activity, with particular emphasis on the health motive. The analysis also includes the differences related to gender and environmental conditions. The study included 391 students of general secondary schools in Austria, aged 18. The study group consisted of 96 boys and 103 girls from a large city and 94 boys and 98 girls from a small town. The Sports Activity Motives Questionnaire was used for the analysis. The study results emphasize the significant role played by the health motive in undertaking sports and recreational activities, especially among girls. The social aspect and relaxation also turned out to be important motives for both sexes. Statistical analysis showed significant differences in motives such as physical fitness and risk, which were more important for boys, while aesthetics was much more important for girls. The study did not find any statistically significant differences in the motives for undertaking sports and recreational activities between young people from large and small towns.

DR-Label: Label Deconstruction and Reconstruction of GNN Models for Catalysis Systems

Attaining the equilibrium geometry of a catalyst-adsorbate system is key to fundamentally assessing its effective properties, such as adsorption energy. While machine learning methods with advanced representation or supervision strategies have been applied to boost and guide the relaxation processes of catalysis systems, existing methods that produce linearly aggregated geometry predictions are susceptible to edge representations ambiguity, and are therefore vulnerable to graph variations. In this paper, we present a novel graph neural network (GNN) supervision and prediction strategy DR-Label. Our approach mitigates the multiplicity of solutions in edge representation and encourages model predictions that are independent of graph structural variations. DR-Label first Deconstructs finer-grained equilibrium state information to the model by projecting the node-level supervision signal to each edge. Reversely, the model Reconstructs a more robust equilibrium state prediction by converting edge-level predictions to node-level via a sphere-fitting algorithm. When applied to three fundamentally different models, DR-Label consistently enhanced performance. Leveraging the graph structure invariance of the DR-Label strategy, we further propose DRFormer, which applied explicit intermediate positional update and achieves a new state-of-the-art performance on the Open Catalyst 2020 (OC20) dataset and the Cu-based single-atom alloys CO adsorption (SAA) dataset. We expect our work to highlight vital principles for advancing geometric GNN models for catalysis systems and beyond. Our code is available at https://github.com/bowenwang77/DR-Label

Bao Yuan decoction alleviates fatigue by restraining inflammation and oxidative stress via the AMPK/CRY2/PER1 signaling pathway

Ethnopharmacological relevanceBaoyuan Decoction (BYD) was initially recorded in the classic of “Bo Ai Xin Jian” in the Ming dynasty. It is traditionally used for treating weakness and cowardice, and deficiency of vital energy. In researches related to anti-fatigue effects, the reciprocal regulation of AMPK and circadian clocks likely plays an important role in anti-fatigue mechanism, while it has not yet been revealed. Therefore, we elucidated the anti-fatigue mechanism of BYD through AMPK/CRY2/PER1 pathway. Aim of the studyTo investigate the effect and mechanism of BYD in reducing fatigue, using pharmacodynamics, network pharmacology and transcriptomics through the AMPK/CRY2/PER1 signaling pathway. Materials and methodsFirstly, the chemical constituents of BYD were qualitatively identified by UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS, establishing a comprehensive strategy with an in-house library, Xcalibur software and Pubchem combined. Secondly, a Na2SO3-induced fatigue model and 2,2′-Azobis (2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-induced oxidative stress model were developed to evaluate the anti-fatigue and anti-oxidant activities of BYD using AB zebrafish. The anti-inflammatory activity of BYD was evaluated using CuSO4-induced and tail cutting-induced Tg (lyz: dsRed) transgenic zebrafish inflammation models. Then, target screening was performed by Swiss ADME, GeneCards, OMIM and DrugBank databases, the network was constructed using Cytoscape 3.9.0. Transcriptome and network pharmacology technology were used to investigate the related signaling pathways and potential mechanisms after treatment with BYD, which were verified by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). ResultsIn total, 114 compounds from the water extract of BYD were identified as major compounds. Na₂SO₃-induced fatigue model and AAPH-induced oxidative stress model indicated that BYD has significant anti-fatigue and antioxidant effects. Meanwhile, BYD showed significant anti-inflammatory effects on CuSO4-induced and tail cutting-induced zebrafish inflammation models. The KEGG result of network pharmacology showed that the anti-fatigue function of BYD was mainly effected through AMPK signaling pathway. Besides, transcriptome analysis indicated that the circadian rhythm, AMPK and IL-17 signaling pathways were recommended as the main pathways related to the anti-fatigue effect of BYD. The RT-qPCR results showed that compared with a model control group, the treatment of BYD significantly elevated the expression mRNA of AMPK, CRY2 and PER1. ConclusionHerein, we identified 114 chemical constituents of BYD, performed zebrafish activity validation, while demonstrated that BYD can relieve fatigue by AMPK/CRY2/PER1 signaling pathway through network pharmacology and transcriptome.

Into the wild: uncertain frontiers and sustainable human-nature interactions.

Humans seldom consider themselves as animals, and that humans are animals is a truth frequently turned into an insulting metaphor indicating "uncivilized" behavior in many cultures. Interestingly, the "civilizing" aspects of Western Culture in the Global North are historically derived from traditions of democracy based on living in cities from which the wild has been banished. This is embedded in the English language since civilizing and civilization come from the Latin for city, civitas, the place where citizens hold voting rights. Beyond the gates of civilization is the wild. How the wild and nature have been constructed and demarcated is an enormously complex and enduring challenge in western philosophy as it relates to knowledge-making, existence, truth, and reality. Indeed, whilst people generally believe they know what nature means, they rarely realize that little in nature is wild. Furthermore, the concept of uncertainty, central to the pandemic, is compounded by climate instability and a potentially disastrous future. This is breaking down what is known, requiring porous and flexible conceptual frontiers and a transdisciplinary approach. This article traces the linguistic separation of humans from their animal origins and wilder environments for political and increasingly greedy economic purposes. It explores the acknowledged complexity of healthy human-nature interactions, juxtaposing information mainly from the humanities and social sciences. Demonstrating how unhealthy the current paradigm has proven to be for humans and the natural world, it brings together conflicting information to disrupt traditional certainties using an innovative bricolage methodology. It weaves and combines different ways of knowing as it considers forms of knowledge-making, rewilding, foraging, the place of magical thinking, and vital force. It concludes that a new paradigm is needed to enable a way of working toward any vision of healthy human-nature interaction.

Social perceptions and the stigmatization towards fifteen mental illnesses in France: a preliminary study on the role of vital force and burden.

This study examined social perceptions and rejection towards fifteen mental illnesses, as well as a preliminary test of the SUBAR model, that hypothesized perceptions of both vital forces and burden would be negatively and positively related to social rejection, respectively. Using an online survey with participants from France (n = 952), social rejection was assessed using a feeling thermometer and a social distance scale, while social perceptions were measured using visual analog scales. A stigma map for these different disorders is drawn up, revealing the social perceptions and levels of stigmatization specific to certain mental illnesses. Controlling for relevant social perceptions (i.e., danger, warmth, competence), we found that perception of burden was positively and significantly associated to social distance and negative feeling for 73% and 67% of mental illnesses, respectively. The perception of vital force was negatively and significantly related to social distance and negative feeling for 87% and 20% of mental illnesses, respectively. The change in R2 between model 1 (i.e. perception of danger, warmth, competence) and model 2 (i.e. model 1 + perceptions of vital force and burden) significantly improved in 100% of cases for social distance and 67% of cases for negative feeling. These preliminary data provide support for the SUBAR model and call for further investigations to better understand the social rejection of people with mental illnesses.

Adaptive cloudiness index for enhanced photovoltaic energy prediction and management in low-income smart homes using geographic information system

Solar-powered homes can be an optimal solution for the lack of continuous power sources problem in initial low-income communities. However, the challenge of Photovoltaic (PV) uncertainty can make it difficult to coordinate this vital solar energy in real-time. This paper proposes a new, low-cost solution for assessing the uncertainty of photovoltaic power generation in smart home energy management systems. The proposed index, inspired by the well-known clearness index, is an adaptive deterministic indicator that only requires free Geographic Information System (GIS) models and PV power measurement, without the need for expensive high-tech controllers or expert engineers/programmers. The proposed index successfully predicts the daily PV energy with errors of less than 3% for more than 93% of studied days, according to the 2020 measured solar radiation of the studied case in an African developing location, i.e. Cairo. Egypt.

Citrus aurantifolia (Chrism.) Swingle peel extract attenuate nephrotoxicity induced by doxorubicin

BackgroundDoxorubicin (DOX) is an anthracycline antibiotic primarily utilized in the treatment of various solid tumors, including those affecting the cervix, ovaries, breasts, uterus, lungs, as well as certain blood cancers. However, the nephrotoxicity connected to DOX therapy restricts its clinical use. In an Ancient Chinese Medicine used Lime (Citrus. aurantifolia) Peel was employed to address cramps, colic pain, cold, and as an appetite stimulant. Lime is known as "Zhi qiao" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), in addition to its nephroprotective, antioxidant and immunostimulatory properties the peel had been noted for its effectiveness in regulating vital energy, used to treat cough, abdominal distention and constipation. ObjectiveThe purpose of this research is to evaluate the potential protective effect of Citrus aurantifolia peel extract (CAPE) in alleviating the nephrotoxicity generated by doxorubicin (DOX) injection in rats. MethodsThirty Wister albino rats were randomly and equally separated into six groups (n = 5), and they were treated as follows: group I received distilled water only (baseline), toxicant groups administered with 15 mg/kg, i.p. DOX, 24 h after, groups II, III IV, V and VI were treated with distilled water (negative control), Alpha lipoic acid, 150 mg/kg (positive control) and 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of CAPE respectively, orally for seven days. ResultsDOX caused kidney injury after a single intraperitoneal injection, as shown by substantial changes in kidney biomarkers, histological irregularities, and the reduction of antioxidant defense mechanisms (reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase). CAPE treatment resulted in significant improvements in the amended renal biomarkers (urea, creatinine, albumin and uric acid), haematological parameters, antioxidative markers, and malondialdehyde. The present findings indicated that CAPE could reduce lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reactive oxygen species production, and observable histological improvements supported this result. ConclusionOur results point out that CAPE is a potential therapeutic alternative for the prevention of DOX-related nephrotoxicity.