bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of Multiphysics Simulation Using OpenFOAM–PRAGMA Coupled Code for Heat Pipe Cooled Microreactor Core With the KRUSTY Experiment
Authors: Jeong Myung Jin , Im Jaeuk , Lee San , Cho Hyoung Kyu
Published: November 2024

A heat pipe cooled microreactor (HPMR) offers advantages such as compact design, ease of transportation, and improved system reliability and safety. The core of the HPMR consists of a solid structure called a “monolith,” which contains multiple fuel rods and heat pipes (HPs). During the design process of the HPMR core, high thermal stress resulting from a large temperature gradient and reactivity feedback due to a thermal expansion are important considerations. To address these phenomena, a high‐fidelity multiphysics analysis tool is required for the accurate analysis of the HPMR core. Developing such a tool necessitates coupling a HP thermal analysis code, a thermal–structural analysis code, and a neutronics code. In this study, Open Field Operation and Manipulation (OpenFOAM), an open‐source computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tool; Power Reactor Analysis using GPU‐based Monte Carlo Algorithm (PRAGMA), a graphics processing unit (GPU)‐based continuous‐energy Monte Carlo neutronics code; and a HP thermal analysis module were coupled to establish a multiphysics analysis tool. A steady‐state analysis of the MegaPower reactor was conducted to demonstrate the performance of the coupled code, and the ability of the coupled code to handle more than 1000 HPs was effectively showcased. To validate the coupled code, a steady‐state multiphysics analysis of the the Kilowatt Reactor Using Stirling TechnologY (KRUSTY) reactor was conducted. The analysis was carried out for both a normal operation state and a single HP failure scenario. The results of the normal operation state analysis showed that the power and temperature distribution predicted by the coupled code were in good agreement with the experimental data with an 0.3 K difference in fuel surface temperature. Additionally, the structural analysis revealed the locations of stress concentration and changes in stress values based on constraint conditions. In the single HP failure scenario, the analysis showed temperature distribution with an 0.7 K difference in fuel surface temperature compared to the experimental data. In addition, the temperature increment around the failed HP and the change in the heat removal rate of other HPs were simulated. These analyses validate the capability of the coupled code and its ability to accurately predict local phenomena within the reactor core.
The Effect of Obesity and Pregnancy Weight Gain on Maternal and Child Health
Authors: Gearhart Richard , Michieka Nyakundi M. , Sonchak-Ardan Lyudmyla , Stutzman Evan
Published: November 2024

In this study, we estimate the effect of prepregnancy obesity and excessive pregnancy weight gain on infant and maternal health outcomes. We rely on a large sample of maternally linked restricted data from 2004 to 2019 South Carolina birth certificates, which allow us to track the same mothers during multiple pregnancies over a period of more than 15 years. To address possible limitations of previous research, we account for genetic confounders and unobservable maternal and environmental factors by relying on a maternal fixed effects strategy. We find that gaining above recommended amounts of weight increases the likelihood of delivering a high weight infant by 2.34 percentage points, while being obese increases this likelihood by 2.58 percentage points. These large negative effects of weight gain outside recommended ranges, as well as the effects of being obese, are present in White and Black mothers. Also, our results indicate that mothers who gained too much weight, or were obese, had a higher likelihood of cesarean section and higher likelihood of being induced. Finally, among the subsample of Medicaid mothers, excessive pregnancy weight gain as well as inadequate weight gain increased the likelihood of NICU admission.
Numerical Simulation of Heat Transfer Characteristics for Optimum Air Flow Rate in Triangular PV/T System
Authors: Sharma Amit , Rajoria C. S. , Bhadu Mahendra , Singh Dharmendra , Kumar Ravi
Published: November 2024

The aim of this numerical study is to investigate the heat transfer characteristics of the air flowing in the triangular photovoltaic thermal (PV/T) array/system at variable velocities. The PV/T array in the present analysis is composed of seven photovoltaic (PV) panels connected in series along with a triangular duct throughout its length. The heat transfer analysis in the PV panel (solid component) and visualization of temperature distribution in the PV/T system has been simulated by the use of system coupling of steady state thermal and CFX tools in ANSYS 18.2. Experiment was initially performed at velocity of 1.5 m/s inside the duct by the use of ANSYS software to predict the glass temperature, outlet air temperature, and tedlar temperature of triangular PV/T system. Further, the velocity has been incremented by 1 m/s up to 6.5 m/s to see the overall performance of the system. The validation of simulation results showed a good agreement with the experimental results under reasonable limit. The gain in temperature with the increase in velocity becomes marginal (only 7%) after 4.5 m/s. The temperature contours from the numerical simulation also revealed that cooling up to the last panel is not significant beyond 4.5 m/s. Similar tendency is documented in the overall exergy efficiency which significantly increased to 4.5 m/s and became marginal with further increment in velocity. It can be inferred that the optimum velocity which can fulfill the requirement of cooling of all PV panels along with reasonable thermal output is 4.5 m/s. The thermal energy gain gradually increases as the day progresses and becomes maximum at 2:00 PM. The average thermal energy gain being 9.6% higher than that in the morning (10:00 AM) indicates its suitability for applications requiring moderately high temperature. The present numerical investigation focuses on improving the overall performance of the system without the involvement of any additional cost. The system can be used in various applications like crop drying, space heating, etc. Owing to different outlet air temperatures during the day, the applications can either be utilized independently or can be combined to be used at different times according to the temperature requirement.
Risk Assessment of Equipment Research Project Costs Based on FAHP‐CRITIC Combined Weights for Two‐Dimensional Cloud Model
Authors: Zhu Chen , Sun Shengxiang , Chen Tong , Zhong Qianghui , Liu Haobang , Li Jing , He Dubo
Published: November 2024

The development of equipment research projects is replete with uncertainties, complicating the provision of accurate and objective evaluations of their development costs. To enhance the precision of cost predictions for such projects, it is critical to assess and integrate the cost‐risk level. This study introduces an improved two‐dimensional cloud model (TDCM) that effectively integrates qualitative concepts and quantitative data for analyzing equipment projects. First, the principal factors influencing cost are thoroughly evaluated, and an assessment index system is structured with three primary and twelve secondary indicators. The probability of budget overrun and its impact are designated as the primary variables for assessing each indicator, aligning with the definition of cost risk. Second, this research merges the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) with the criteria importance though intercriteria correlation (CRITIC) method, employing coalitional game theory to ascertain the weights of each assessment indicator. Third, a TDCM is developed to derive cloud eigenvalues, and a two‐dimensional cloud diagram is constructed through MATLAB to preliminarily ascertain the risk level, with the degree of nearness subsequently calculated to refine these results. Fourth, each indicator in the assessment system is treated as a node to construct a Bayesian network (BN) based on logical relationships, and a sensitivity analysis is conducted to identify sensitive indicators. Fifth, the development of a specific mine countermeasure (MCM) weapon system is examined as a case study, incorporating relevant existing data into the improved model. The validity and feasibility of the model are corroborated by comparing it with traditional methods. The results affirm that the enhanced TDCM effectively navigates the ambiguity and randomness inherent in cost‐risk assessment data, providing a reference for similar scientific research projects.
Role of GSTM1 and GSTT1 Gene Polymorphisms on Lung Cancer Susceptibility and Effect on Platinum‐Based Chemotherapy‐Induced Toxicity in Bangladeshi Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Nairuz Tahsin , Kabir Yearul
Published: November 2024

Background: Glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) play a significant role in carcinogen detoxification, and hence, polymorphisms of this gene may lead to lung cancer susceptibility. Accordingly, this study is aimed at investigating GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms’ association with lung cancer risk and their effects on the toxicities of platinum‐based chemotherapy used to treat Bangladeshi lung cancer patients.

Methods: The study subjects comprised 180 lung cancer patients and 200 healthy volunteers. Genetic polymorphisms of GSTM1 and GSTT1 were analyzed using a multiplex PCR–based method. Chemotherapy toxicity was evaluated using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE v5.0).

Results: GSTM1 null genotype was found to be significantly associated with a 1.6‐fold increased risk of lung cancer (OR = 1.60, 95%CI = 1.01–2.52, p = 0.0491), whereas no significant association was observed with GSTT1 null genotype and combined GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotype. Moreover, no significant relationship was observed between GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms and the increased risk of platinum‐based chemotherapy‐induced toxicities in lung cancer patients.

Conclusions: These findings indicated that the GSTM1 null but not GSTT1 null genotype was significantly associated with lung cancer susceptibility. These polymorphisms were not related to platinum‐based chemotherapy‐induced toxicities in Bangladeshi lung cancer patients.
ABHD1 Facilitates Intermediate Filament–Mediated Endothelial Cell Chemotaxis by Regulating KRT1 and KRT2 in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Liu Xinyi , Fang Junwei , Niu Tian , Xing Xindan , Shi Xin , Xiao Yu , Qu Yuan , Jiang Yan , Lv Kangjia , Dou Tianyu , Zhu Qian , Wan Hancong , Liu Xiaoxin , Wang Hanying , Liu Kun
Published: November 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common complications of diabetes and induces severe visual impairment worldwide. Endothelial cell dysfunction plays an important role in the pathogenesis of DR. Here, we keep a watchful eye on α/β‐hydrolase domain–containing 1 (ABHD1), a potential regulator in lipid metabolism and neovascularization. Results revealed that ABHD1 expression increased both in retina tissues of DR patients and in high‐glucose–treated human retina endothelial cells. Inhibition of ABHD1 remitted endothelial cell proliferation and migration. And GSEA uncovered that ABHD1 knockdown remits endothelial cell chemotaxis and intermediate filament (IF) might be mediated in the progress by regulating keratin 1 (KRT1) and keratin 2 (KRT2). Therefore, we assume that ABHD1 is concerned with endothelial cell proliferation and migration in DR, consequently leading to pathological neovascularization. The findings may provide a potential therapeutic target for DR.
Pectinase‐Driven Optimization of Pectin Hydrolysis for Enhanced Clarity, Anthocyanin Retention, and Consumer Appeal in Red Dragon Fruit Mint Flavored Beverage
Authors: Pham Binh An , Vu Ngoc Duc , Phan Pham Hong , Long Huynh Bao , Long Tran Bach , Pham Van Thinh
Published: November 2024

This study is aimed at analyzing, evaluating, and optimizing the pectin hydrolysis process to improve the quality of carbonated beverages made from red dragon fruit combined with mint flavor. Red dragon fruit, rich in nutrients and antioxidants, presents challenges in beverage processing due to its high pectin content, which affects clarity and anthocyanin stability. The research investigates the impact of various parameters, including enzyme concentration, hydrolysis time, and temperature, on juice clarity and anthocyanin content. Using a central composite design model, optimal conditions were determined to maximize juice clarity and anthocyanin content. Sensory evaluation during the blending process was also conducted to assess consumer acceptance, focusing on clarity, color, flavor, taste, and total acceptability. The optimum conditions were found to yield maximum clarity (52.763%) and anthocyanin content (224.414 mg C3G/L). Sensory evaluation indicated that 20% dragon fruit juice concentration with 0.12% citric acid, 13°Bx, and 0.30% mint flavor provided the best consumer acceptance. This research demonstrates the potential for producing high‐quality, appealing, and nutritious carbonated beverages from red dragon fruit, contributing to healthier and more sustainable consumption trends.
Novel Amanitin-Based Antibody–Drug Conjugates Targeting TROP2 for the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Papacharisi Eleni , Braun Alexandra C. , Vranic Marija , Pahl Andreas M. , Hechler Torsten
Published: November 2024

Trophoblast cell surface antigen 2 (TROP2) exhibits aberrant expression in pancreatic cancer, correlating with metastasis, advanced tumor stage, and poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. TROP2 has been recognized as a promising therapeutic target for antibody–drug conjugates (ADC), as evidenced by the approval of the anti-TROP2 ADC Trodelvy for the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). In this study, we report the generation of novel second-generation amanitin-based ADCs (ATAC) targeting TROP2, comprising the humanized RS7 antibody of Trodelvy (hRS7) and the highly potent payload amanitin. The specific in vitro binding, efficient antigen internalization, and high cytotoxicity of hRS7 ATACs with EC50 values in the picomolar range in TROP2-expressing cells constituted the foundation for preclinical in vivo evaluation. The hRS7 ATACs demonstrated a significant reduction in tumor growth in vivo in subcutaneous xenograft mouse models of pancreatic cancer and TNBC at well-tolerated doses. The antitumor efficacy correlated with the level of TROP2 expression on the tumors and the in vivo tumor uptake of the ATACs. The long half-life of 9.7 to 10.7 days of hRS7 ATACs without premature payload release in serum supported a high therapeutic index. Notably, the efficacy of the hRS7 ATACs was superior to that of Trodelvy with complete tumor eradication in both refractory pancreatic cancer and TNBC xenograft models. In summary, hRS7 ATACs represent a highly effective and well-tolerated targeted therapy, and our data support their development for pancreatic cancer and other TROP2-expressing tumors.
Figure S5 from PINK1-Mediated Mitochondrial Activity Confers Olaparib Resistance in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Schaaf Zachary A. , Ning Shu , Leslie Amy R. , Sharifi Masuda , Gao Richard Y. , Maine James P. , Lou Wei , Lombard Alan P. , Liu Chengfei , Yu Ai-Ming , Mitsiades Nicholas , Gao Allen C.
Published: November 2024

Supplementary data
Figure S3 from PINK1-Mediated Mitochondrial Activity Confers Olaparib Resistance in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Schaaf Zachary A. , Ning Shu , Leslie Amy R. , Sharifi Masuda , Gao Richard Y. , Maine James P. , Lou Wei , Lombard Alan P. , Liu Chengfei , Yu Ai-Ming , Mitsiades Nicholas , Gao Allen C.
Published: November 2024

supplementary data
Figure 5 from PINK1-Mediated Mitochondrial Activity Confers Olaparib Resistance in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Schaaf Zachary A. , Ning Shu , Leslie Amy R. , Sharifi Masuda , Gao Richard Y. , Maine James P. , Lou Wei , Lombard Alan P. , Liu Chengfei , Yu Ai-Ming , Mitsiades Nicholas , Gao Allen C.
Published: November 2024

Seahorse Mito Stress Test assay results comparing 2B-OlapR cells with and without siPINK treatment at basal state and with mitochondrially relevant pharmacologic supplementation to deduce relative function convey decreased function after PINK1 expression ablation. A and B, Mito Stress Test summary graphic representing differential OCR and extracellular acidification rate between nonspecific and siPINK1-targeted OlapR cells. C, Cellular OCR at basal state is greatly reduced with PINK1 excision. D, ATP production–associated oxygen consumption is markedly reduced in 2B-OlapR cells treated with siPINK1. E and F, PINK1 expression reduction reveals consequential decreased spare capacity for respiration, as well as lessened maximal rate of ETC-based oxygen consumption. G, Decreasing PINK1 levels leads to less proton leakage out of the inter-mitochondrial membrane space inferred by OCR reading differences after oligomycin addition and after rotenone and antimycin addition. ECAR, extracellular acidification rate. **, P≤0.01; ***, P≤0.001.
Figure 1 from PINK1-Mediated Mitochondrial Activity Confers Olaparib Resistance in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Schaaf Zachary A. , Ning Shu , Leslie Amy R. , Sharifi Masuda , Gao Richard Y. , Maine James P. , Lou Wei , Lombard Alan P. , Liu Chengfei , Yu Ai-Ming , Mitsiades Nicholas , Gao Allen C.
Published: November 2024

Gene enrichment in olaparib-resistant derived C4-2B cells (2B-OlapR) related to OxPhos. A, Hallmark collection gene sets in 2B-OlapR cells, with the OxPhos gene set the most enriched. B–E, Gene set expression heatmap for full set of the genes (left) in parental and resistant 2B cells, with the top 15 genes listed (right), and GSEA plots with summary statistics for the following: GOBP OxPhos (B), GOBP ATP synthesis coupled electron transport (C), GOBP Mitochondrial Electron Transport NADH to Ubiquinone (D), and the Hallmark OxPhos (E) from the MSigDB. FWER, family-wise error rate; NES, normalized enrichment score.
Data from PINK1-Mediated Mitochondrial Activity Confers Olaparib Resistance in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Schaaf Zachary A. , Ning Shu , Leslie Amy R. , Sharifi Masuda , Gao Richard Y. , Maine James P. , Lou Wei , Lombard Alan P. , Liu Chengfei , Yu Ai-Ming , Mitsiades Nicholas , Gao Allen C.
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Olaparib, a PARP inhibitor, is a targeted therapy used in treating various cancers, including castration-resistant prostate cancer. Despite its efficacy, resistance to olaparib remains a significant challenge. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underpinning this resistance is crucial for developing more effective treatment strategies. This study focuses on elucidating the role of mitochondrial alterations and the PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) gene in conferring olaparib resistance in castration-resistant prostate cancer cells. We investigated the transcriptomic and functional differences in mitochondrial activity between olaparib-resistant (2B-OlapR, LN-OlapR) and treatment-naïve prostate cancer cells (C4-2B, LNCaP) in both castration-sensitive and -resistant settings. Through RNA sequencing and gene set enrichment analysis, we identified significant enrichment of mitochondrial activity– and oxidative phosphorylation–related gene sets in olaparib-resistant derived cell lines. Resistant lines exhibited enhanced mitochondrial functionality, including increased basal and maximal respiration rates, as well as elevated ATP production and spare respiratory capacity, compared with parental cells. Subsequent investigations revealed a substantial increase in mitochondrial mass and electron transport chain complex I activity in olaparib-resistant cells. Furthermore, overexpression of the PINK1 gene was observed in resistant cells, which was correlated with resistance to olaparib and poor clinical outcomes in patients with prostate cancer. Inhibition of PINK1 expression significantly reduced mitochondrial function and mass, impaired cell growth, and decreased resistance to olaparib. These findings suggest that PINK1 plays a crucial role in modulating mitochondrial dynamics that confer therapeutic resistance, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for overcoming olaparib resistance in prostate cancer.
Significance:
Olaparib, a PARP inhibitor, is effective against various cancers, including prostate cancer. However, resistance to olaparib poses a significant challenge. This study uncovers that mitochondrial alterations and PINK1 gene overexpression contribute to this resistance in prostate cancer cells. Enhanced mitochondrial functionality and increased PINK1 expression in olaparib-resistant cells underscore the importance of targeting mitochondrial dynamics and PINK1 to develop more effective treatments for overcoming olaparib resistance in prostate cancer.
Pediatric aleukemic leukemia cutis with testicular involvement: a case report
Authors: Bailleux Sophie , Cao Sandrine , Dezfoulian Bita , Collins Patrick , Somja Joan , Gatineau Sophie , Longton Julie , Nikkels Arjen F.
Published: November 2024

Aleukemic leukemia cutis (ALC) is a rare condition and concerns less than 10% of leukemia cutis (LC) cases. LC defined as a cutaneous infiltration of neoplastic myeloid or lymphoid blasts, which occurs in the absence of any prior bone marrow or peripheral blood involvement. A pediatric case of ALC is presented because of an exceptional testicular localization as well as a review of the literature.
Re-Imagining Transformative Strategies to End Minority Marginalization in Ethiopia
Authors: Mohammed Awol Ali
Published: November 2024

Since 1991, Ethiopia embarked on a journey to create an ethnically egalitarian state, aiming to rectify historical injustices and protect minority rights. Ironically, what was meant to be a beacon of equality has turned into a pervasive experience of minority marginalization. This stark reality underscores the failures of the existing legal and institutional frameworks. This article, therefore, critically examine the transformative strategies to end marginalization of minorities in Ethiopia. The study employed a qualitative research approach blending both primary and secondary data sources. The findings revealed that the failures of existing constitutional promises and institutional frameworks regarding the protection of minority rights, necessitating re-imaginations of transformative strategies. The study advocates for the progression of national and local minority rights institutions, the implementation of transitional justice measures, the instigation of electoral reforms, and the decentralization of power. Furthermore, the establishment of minority autonomous governance and the augmentation of local government capacity are recommended. Additionally, the formation of national minority councils, accentuating parliamentary endorsement for legislative reforms by minority representatives and public service reform is suggested to enhance minority employment opportunities. Lastly, the study recommended equal media access to promote the political participation and freedom of expression of marginalized minority groups.
Hannah Arendt and Michel Foucault on History, Tradition, and Modernity
Authors: Neill Edmund
Published: November 2024

This article interrogates the different ways in which Arendt and Foucault seek to conceptualize tradition in their work. First, it analyses Arendt’s approach, arguing that she put forward three overlapping accounts of the Western tradition – one that criticized the alienating effects of post-seventeenth-century science, one that criticized the Western philosophical tradition as a whole for favouring ‘making’ and ‘contemplation’ over ‘action’, and one that sought to explain the advent of totalitarianism through the stresses that imperialism and racism put upon Western political thought. These approaches are then contrasted with Foucault’s. It is argued that he differed significantly in not believing that there was one Western tradition, laid less stress on totalitarianism, was more of a historicist, and distinguished less between the ‘political’ and the ‘social’. Nevertheless there were important overlaps between Arendt and Foucault’s approaches. Both were critical of the instrumentalizing and technocratic effects of modern science, both stressed the importance of unpredictable events in history, and both believed that examining the Western tradition critically offered important alternatives for modern politics – though neither thought that these would lead to any simple gaining of liberal ‘autonomy’.
The Politics of Method: Arendt and Foucault on Hobbes
Authors: Herrera Helphand Dawn
Published: November 2024

In The Origins of Totalitarianism (1951) and the “Society Must Be Defended” lectures (1975–1976), Hannah Arendt and Michel Foucault present unexpected engagements with Thomas Hobbes’ Leviathan. This article contextualizes and elucidates their interpretations of Hobbes by foregrounding the genealogical aspect of their projects. Their readings of Leviathan reflect common methodological commitments and figure the distinct but related problematics which Foucault and Arendt articulate, encapsulating the differences between their influential conceptions of power. The article concludes with a reading of Hobbes’ theory of the liberty of subjects, which, while not explicitly addressed by Arendt or Foucault, lends support to their treatments of his text. Comparing their readings of Hobbes opens a potentially generative dialogue between their critiques of sovereignty and racialized state violence.
Labor as an Overlooked Entry Point into the Modern Age in the Works of Arendt and Foucault
Authors: Imbrasaite Jurgita
Published: November 2024

This paper explores Arendt’s and Foucault’s thinking through the lens of the modern labor paradigm. Even if the question of labor is a less prominent path in both thinkers’ research, it leads to the heart of the modern era as they both understand it. In their respective fields, Arendt and Foucault sketch a similar link between the beginning of the modern age and the transformation of the notion of labor. While Arendt directly examines the modern glorification of labor and the emergence of the labor society, Foucault provides numerous analyses of labor as an instrument and target of disciplinary society, along with an epistemic distinction of modernity deeply connected to the term, ‘labor.’ This joint reading contributes to what might be called their philosophies of labor, as well as to the ongoing debate about the nature and meaning of labor in contemporary society.
The Implementation of Active, Bodily Experience Mathematics Learning Activities: the Perspective of Italian Primary and Secondary School Mathematics Teachers
Authors: Boscolo Alessandra
Published: November 2024

Despite the growing emphasis on embodied education in mathematics research, it remains unclear how extensively these ideas permeate schools. Through an exploratory survey, we pinpoint common traits and differences in beliefs among a convenience sample of Italian primary and secondary school mathematics teachers, searching for contextual and individual factors that could influence the active, bodily experience mathematics learning (ABM) activities implementation. Teachers refer to the insufficient availability of suitable spaces and resources as the primary obstacle to implementation, while lack of familiarity and guidance is another significant challenge. Secondary school teachers, and in particular those who reported to integrate fewer such activities in the classroom, express concerns about time constraints, leading to diminished belief in the efficacy of ABM activities. Transfer of learning is reported by teachers as the greatest difficulty for students. Providing specific training, along with concrete examples of resources, is hypothesized to be a key supportive strategy.

The impact sheet to this article can be accessed at 10.6084/m9.figshare.27151194.
For an … «Artificially Intelligent» Process
Authors: Capasso Valentina
Published: November 2024

It is generally understood that covid-19 pandemics, in exacerbating already existent inefficiencies of the judicial systems, at the same time offered an opportunity to cope with them. Indeed, problems such as courts backlog intensified by the delay accumulated during the pandemic; the digital divide, made more pressing by the need to initiate and conduct proceedings electronically, itself a source of doubts as to the current need for physical hearings and, consequently, the for proximity of the Courts, were already known to the States. Similarly, for some years now, there has been a widespread awareness that, in order to achieve a better rationalization of resources, procedural reforms are not sufficient. That is why the contribution does not discuss the latest Italian procedural reform in detail, nor its criticalities. Rather, it focuses on an apparently minor provision, which looks instead capable of explaining effects that go well beyond those imagined by the Legislator and whose interest may transcend national borders, namely article 46 of the Code of civil procedure Implementing Rules. As the Author tries to demonstrate, this proviso, if fully exploited, could combine with weak artificial intelligence (ai) tools and with already known caseload management techniques to ensure greater rationalization of judicial resources and easier access to justice.
The Impacts of Predictive Justice in Civil Litigation
Authors: Martins João Marques
Published: November 2024

Predictive justice is the informal name for a computer tool equipped with artificial intelligence capable of predicting the outcome of a court case, based on previous decisions on similar cases. As a valuable source of information for lawyers and judges, its usefulness seems unquestionable. But the problems it raises are no less obvious. From the outset, the accuracy of the output can be questioned. The psychological impact of the predictions on the judge, conditioning her decision-making autonomy, is also worrisome. In addition, there are concerning uncertainties about the negative effect of these tools on the training of trainee lawyers, since one of their most frequent and formative tasks will be carried out by machines. Finally, and assuming that these tools can profile the professional skills of judges and lawyers, we should ask whether this is desirable or even acceptable.
Civil Procedure and the Rule of Law in Scandinavia
Authors: Nylund Anna
Published: November 2024

Although courts are essential institutions in the rule of law, the nexus between the rule of law and civil procedure law is seldom discussed in depth. Courts not only resolve disputes, but they are also a vehicle for the vindication of legal rights, promoting the clarity and coherence of the law, and governance through the law. This article analyses how the historical and prevailing legal ideologies in Scandinavian societies shape how the values of the rule of law are materialised through court proceedings. It argues that the perceived primary role of Scandinavian law oscillates between stressing the private and public functions of courts, and with views on legal rights. The analysis is divided into three periods: the zenith of Scandinavian realism and the welfare state, the influx of access to justice movement and European law, and the current age in which New Public Management has put its mark.
The correct name for the subfamily containing Kalanchoe is Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae, and not Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae, with amendment of the circumscription of Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F. , MONRO ANNA M.
Published: November 2024

In 2022, a proposal to reject the subfamily name Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae was submitted, through publication, as is required in the currently operative International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants, to the General Committee (GC), and through that body, automatically to the (Permanent) Nomenclature Committee for Vascular Plants (NCVP). Drafting and publication of the rejection proposal was undertaken because, despite having priority, the name Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae, has not been used in the taxonomic literature relating to the family for the past 30 years. Rather, virtually all the published studies on the Crassulaceae that referenced subfamilies used Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae, for which the informal name “Kalanchoe clade” has been used exclusively in phylogenetic studies of the Crassulaceae. However, the NCVP (in February 2024) recommended against the proposal to reject the name Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae. This recommendation was submitted to the GC, which supported the NCVP and rejected the rejection proposal (in July 2024), despite an appeal against this outcome having been lodged (in February 2024). The further procedural treatment of the report of the GC is discussed in this paper. The outcome of the proposal having been rejected is that the subfamily name Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae must be adopted in the stead of the subfamily name Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae for a group of four predominantly, but not exclusively, southern African genera, i.e., Adromischus, Cotyledon, Kalanchoe, and Tylecodon. Kalanchoe in particular has a wider natural geographical distribution range. Since the original circumscription of Crassulaceae subfam. Cotyledonoideae included a disparate group of six southern and northern hemisphere genera, a further outcome of the proposal having been rejected is that the circumscription of this subfamily must be amended. This is done here.
Leveraging Pareto Analysis of Outpatient Morbidity for Strategic Drug Procurement and Health Promotion in Resource-Constrained Setting in Ghana
Authors: Nsiah Richmond , Ankamah James , Krah Theresah , Yeboah Akua , Nyarko Dominic , Gmanyami Jonathan , Peprah Florence , Prempeh Frank , Domfeh Charlotte , Ayirebi Isaac , Bonnir Mark , Morrison Isaac , Morrison Margaret , Larbi-Debrah Patrick , Ayambire Geoffrey , Sarkodie Priscilla , Sabogu Kenneth , Atsu-Ofori Obed , Agyemang Kwame , Adinkrah Daniel
Published: November 2024

Background: Effective health management in resource-limited settings requires strategic resource allocation and intervention planning. Pareto analysis, based on the 80/20 rule, aids in identifying key health conditions impacting outpatient morbidity, guiding intervention prioritization and resource optimization. This study applied Pareto analysis on outpatient morbidity data from Goaso Government Hospital, Ghana, to identify common health conditions and improve drug procurement and health promotion strategies. The methodology also serves as a guide for applying Pareto chart analysis to enhance decision-making in healthcare delivery. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted analyzing outpatient department (OPD) data from January to December 2023. Data were extracted from the Ghana Health Service Monthly Outpatient Morbidity Reports via the District Health Information Management System 2 (DHIMS 2). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20 to estimate the mean and standard deviation. Microsoft Excel 2016 was employed for Pareto analysis and the creation of column charts. Results: The analysis revealed that female patients had a higher average number of outpatient cases (M = 259, SD = 430.7) compared to male patients (M = 156, SD = 282.5). Key conditions contributing to 80% of the cases included Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs), Pneumonia, Malaria, Acute Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), Diarrhoeal diseases, Typhoid Fever, Anaemia, Rheumatism/Arthritis, Skin Diseases, and Septicaemia. Notably, young adults (ages 20-34) and children (ages 1-4) were most affected. Conclusions: A strategic approach to drug procurement is essential due to high disease prevalence. Key actions include maintaining a three-month supply of ACTs for malaria, stocking essential antibiotics, and ensuring a two-month supply of ORS. Utilizing data-driven forecasting and establishing strong supplier partnerships are crucial for optimizing drug availability. Simultaneously, targeted health promotion efforts should focus on respiratory health, malaria prevention, UTIs, WASH practices, anaemia, rheumatism, and skin diseases through public education. Additionally, qualitative research, such as patient interviews and provider surveys, is recommended to understand high morbidity rates and evaluate existing interventions.
Dopamine and Endorphins: A Study of Speed in Fashion as a Mechanism of Desire
Authors: Yizhou Zhang
Published: November 2024

This study delves into the contrasting mechanisms of fast fashion and slow fashion, examining how they operate as expressions of human desire driven by distinct neurological and philosophical underpinnings. Fast fashion, fueled by rapid production cycles and the influence of technology and capital, leverages dopamine-driven mechanisms to provide instant gratification. This model aligns with the short-term reward system, reinforcing consumer behaviors that lead to continuous purchases and cyclical consumption. However, this pursuit often results in environmental degradation, resource overuse, and psychological exhaustion among consumers. In contrast, slow fashion embodies a counter-narrative that emphasizes quality, sustainability, and long-term satisfaction, aligning with the endorphin-driven mechanisms. These endorphins, associated with deeper emotional fulfillment and resilience through challenges, promote a reflective, meaningful consumer experience. The philosophical analysis incorporates Schopenhauer’s concept of insatiable will, paralleling the endless desire perpetuated by fast fashion, and Nietzsche’s idea of the will to power, suggesting slow fashion as a creative and life-affirming response that embraces challenge and meaning. Ultimately, the article argues that while both fast and slow fashion engage human desire mechanisms, their impacts differ vastly in terms of sustainability, psychological well-being, and existential fulfillment. The study calls for a broader exploration of how technology, culture, and ethical considerations can reshape fashion consumption toward more sustainable and emotionally satisfying practices.
Evaluation of Vaccination Coverage Against COVID-19 Among Postpartum Women at the Gaspard Kamara Health Center in Senegal in 2020
Authors: Leye Mamadou , Touré Amadou , Mendy Brigitte
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken the world and the rapid delivery of vaccines against the virus has raised many questions. Doubts have been raised about the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine in pregnant and breastfeeding women, hence the need to assess vaccination coverage of postpartum women at the Gaspard Kamara health center. We therefore carried out a cross-sectional analytical study from May 31 to June 28, 2022 on all women who gave birth at the Gaspard Kamara health center. Exhaustive recruitment was carried out and the data were analyzed using the SSP software version 2022. In total, 235 women participated in the study, with a mean age of 28.22 ± 5.96 years and extremes 16 and 44 years old. More than half of the patients (68.94%) had given birth vaginally. Those with secondary education accounted for 72.34%. Less than a quarter of women (7.23%) tested positive for COVID19 and 96.60% of them received information on the fight against COVID19, with the media being their main source of information. Less than half (40.43%) knew the vaccines available in Senegal, Johnson & Johnson being the best known. The majority of women (82.55%) believe in the effectiveness of vaccination to eradicate the disease. Age (30 years), lack of information on the fight against COVID19, lack of knowledge of the risks of serious forms in FE, knowledge of the availability of the vaccine in Senegal and vaccination of the spouse were statistically associated with vaccination against COVID19 among women in this country. study. Conclusion: The results of this study show the need to strengthen awareness and communication on the effectiveness and safety of vaccines among pregnant women, particularly those under 30 years of age. Let women know that they can be vaccinated at any age and during any trimester of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Place of Food in the Lives of Peoples of Nkam Division-Cameroon: Symbolic Reading of the Act of Food During Certain Events of the Life Cycle
Authors: Gervain Hen , Baptiste Bike
Published: November 2024

This article questions the place of food in certain events of the life cycle among the Nkam peoples, namely childbirth, traditional marriage and death. A substantial observation has been made. The different stages of the family cycle are punctuated by events marked by rites. These are always associated with a food component which, at each phase, presents particular specificities. It is this observation that motivated the present research, the main objective of which is to highlight the symbolic charge which accompanies the rites which punctuate said events. It is therefore an invitation to explore an identity heritage which constitutes a cultural reference for these groups. The results obtained are based on qualitative surveys carried out in the Nkam department, Littoral-Cameroon region. These investigations, carried out through interviews and participant observation which were held during the course of the events but also during the scheduled meetings. These interviews were combined with the exploitation of literature. This therefore made it possible to organize the present work which revolves around food as an inseparable component of socio-cultural life. In addition, the act of eating appears to be ritualized and carries identity, giving it meaning and imposing itself at each stage of the fabric of human existence.
A Review: Blockchain Effect on Healthcare and IoMT
Authors: Shabir Sobia , Shabir Jawaid , Shaikh Ruhanuddin , Shaikh Shabir , Afzal Mubashira
Published: November 2024

Blockchain technology is changing several sectors of the economy, but healthcare is one of the most affected. This study looks at how blockchain is changing healthcare procedures, especially in terms of improving data sharing security and transparency, which is essential for precise diagnosis and efficient treatment. Traditional healthcare systems can be improved to provide more dependable and accessible health records, guaranteeing prompt and accurate medical care, by integrating blockchain. In discussing how blockchain affects the administration of Electronic Health Records (EHRs), the paper emphasizes how patient data can be protected from the risks associated with private companies' centralized control. The management of health information is more secure thanks to this decentralized method, which lowers the chances of data breaches and unauthorized access. The study also examines the growing market for the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) and consumer medical devices, highlighting the significance of public-private sector cooperation in the creation of blockchain-based healthcare initiatives. For healthcare technologies to advance and to satisfy customer expectations for linked medical devices, these partnerships are essential. This study essentially offers a thorough examination of how blockchain technology is transforming the healthcare sector, specifically about EHR administration and IoMT integration. The study emphasizes the necessity of implementing this technology to build more safe, effective, and patient-centered healthcare systems by discussing its potential and obstacles.
Establishing a Good Learning Style, Sharpening Professional Skills, and Accepting the Challenges of the Times —Discussing Learning Styles with Vocational College Students
Authors: Jiugen Xiao , Lingjun Xiong
Published: November 2024

Since the late 20th century, the party and the country have paid more and more attention to the development of vocational education, implemented reforms on vocational education, and formulated and promulgated policies and regulations; The national leader also made important instructions on vocational education work, elevating the development of vocational education to the comprehensive construction of society It is a strategic height to provide talents and skills support for socialist modernization and realize the great rejuvenation of the nation, thus vocational education has entered a new era of healthy and rapid development. Facing this great opportunity, it is an important issue worth paying attention to and researching whether vocational education college students are mentally prepared for technical talents. According to the survey, a small number of college students are not well prepared in this regard, and there are still many problems that cannot be ignored. Therefore, educators have the responsibility to educate students in vocational colleges, and they must conform to the tide of the times, establish a good learning atmosphere, develop outstanding talents, and make sufficient technical talents and ideological preparations for shouldering heavy responsibilities and making contributions in the future.
Greenwashing of Corporate Carbon Information and Availability of Bank Credit
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu
Published: November 2024

In recent years, as China's economy has gradually shifted to high-quality development, climate policies and sustainable finance have received widespread attention. In the current era of promoting the "dual-carbon" strategy, green finance plays an indispensable role in helping corporates achieve green transformation. However, it has been found that greenwashing behavior by corporates exists to different degrees in the environmental information disclosure of listed companies in China, and the phenomenon of selective disclosure and only talking about environmental performance is particularly prominent. Given that carbon information disclosure has become one of the credit standards for financial institutions to provide loans, this greenwashing behavior may hinder financial institutions from providing green loans and lead to an uneven distribution of credit resources. Based on the data of listed manufacturing companies in China from 2013 to 2022, this paper uses text analysis to measure the "greenwashing" behavior of corporates in terms of carbon information and discusses the impact of such speculation on the availability of bank credit. The study finds that the "greenwashing" behavior of corporates in terms of carbon information can improve the availability of bank credit. Moreover, this credit resource access effect is stronger in non-state-owned corporates, low-value corporates and corporates with high information opacity. However, this paper also confirms that media supervision and regional environmental regulations can mitigate the impact of cleaning on financing. The research results of this paper have policy significance for the sustainable development of corporates.
Sustainable Spectrophotometric Quantification of Lansoprazole Through Mixed Hydrotropy Approach
Authors: Soni Ketan , Sharma Kavita
Published: November 2024

Solubility is the property of a substance to dissolve in or form a homogeneous mixture with another substance. One of the most common problems associated with making a solution is poor solubility. There are many drugs that are sparingly soluble or insoluble in water, and lansoprazole is one of them. Aqueous solubility of lansoprazole is 0.05 mg/ml at room temperature. The current study aims to improve lansoprazole solubility using a mixed hydrotropy method. The purpose of the mixed hydrotropic solubilization approach is to increase the solubility of weakly water-soluble drugs in hydrotropic agent blends. To avoid the use of organic solvents, the mixed hydrotropy idea may be a good option. In this current research attempt, a novel method for spectrophotometric estimation of lansoprazole using a mixed solvent blend (containing 10% SC and 20% SB) as the solvent was developed. By observing the absorbances of the drug's standard solutions, the calibration curve for lansoprazole was drawn. The absorbances were measured at 275 nm compared to the corresponding reagent blanks. The percent label claims were found to be very near to 100, showing that the proposed approach is accurate. The suggested method estimates percent recoveries to be near 100 with significantly low percentage deviation and standard error values. As a result, the proposed process is simple, safe, and precise, and it does not require the use of harmful chemical solvents.