bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of non-stationary cutting processes in power skiving
Authors: Hrytsai Ihor , Slipchuk Andrii
Published: November 2024

The paper presents the results of the modelling and study of the cutting process in the cut-in phase during the machining of external gears by the power skiving. The studies were carried out on the basis of the previously developed graphical model of the cut layers and the model of the cutting force as a function of the chip cross-sectional area, the shear strength limit of the workpiece material, and the intensity of plastic deformation during cutting. The regularities of the cutting force in the cut-in phase of gear machining are shown for successive tool revolutions in four passes with a gradual increase in the depth of cut. It is shown that the peak values of the cutting force at the contact between the front face of the cutter and the face plane are two times higher than under the conditions of steady stationary cutting in a preformed gap. At the same time, the amplitude of the cutting force and its average value over the cut-in passes are 1.7–3.7 times and 1.2–1.5 times higher, respectively, than the corresponding values of these parameters for steady state cutting. It is these peak jumps in the cutting force that limit the maximum depth of the cut, number of passes, and axial feed. Based on the data obtained, recommendations were developed to modify the traditional gear cutting scheme in power skiving. It is proposed to use short tool strokes with a low cutting depth along the length of the cut-in path and, after forming a gap in this area, to cut at a full depth to the full height of the gear rim. The possibility of a significant reduction of gear machining time using the proposed scheme of technological operation is demonstrated.
Investigation of the impact of product thickness and strain on cold forging processes
Authors: Nazal Samya A. , Nasser Mohamed A. , Hanon Muammel M. , Ameen Hani A.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of sheet metal thickness and strain generated on a cold forging process. A cold forging die was manufactured based on a numerically modelled product design that considered stress concentration die profiles. Experiments involved cold forging various sheet metals (lead, brass, aluminium, and steel) with thicknesses ranging from 2mm to 6mm to assess their influence on the thickness and strain. An assumption was formulated using Solidworks to determine the appropriate sheet metal thickness based on the material type. This assumption, based on volume considerations, showed practical applicability for selecting sheet metals with thicknesses close to those designed in the numerical modelling. The results revealed that softer materials, such as lead and aluminium, closely approximated the design thickness, particularly in the central region of the die profile, with error deviations of 1.14 % and 4.36 %, respectively. In contrast, harder materials demonstrated larger deviations from the design, with minimum errors of 4.94 % for brass and 5.73 % for steel. All sheet metals underwent compressive strain in the central region of the die profile due to the stamping operation. This work demonstrates a practical approach for selecting sheet metals based on material and thickness considerations, providing insights into the behaviour of different materials during the cold forging process.
The effect of a malfunctioning braking system on the behaviour of a special vehicle during an emergency braking in a curvilinear movement
Authors: Simiński Przemysław , Neumann Vlastimil , Svoboda Pavel , Cibulová Klára , Vnuk Radovan
Published: November 2024

Vehicle mobility is an increasingly important issue today, even in the military field. Mobility depends on the condition of the vehicle, the route and, of course, the experience of the driver. Vehicle failures and damage are very common in military operations. It is therefore important to find out how these failures and damage can affect mobility. One of the essential parts of a vehicle is the braking system. The authors therefore decided to investigate what is the effect of a malfunctioning brake system on emergency braking behaviour of a special vehicle in a curvilinear movement. Simulation tests were performed based on an experimentally validated model. The tests were performed with a wheeled vehicle on three different surfaces: concrete, wet asphalt, and ice. The experimental conditions were given as follows – the braking process was considered for a braking system with ABS on and off and for two states of braking system sufficiency (8 braked wheels or 4 rear braked wheels). These tests allowed us to analyse the effect of the extent of the damage on safety, in this case the stopping of the vehicle on a specified curved route. The results of braking and stability on different surfaces and under given conditions are evaluated and described in this paper. On the basis of the results, it is possible to prepare training programmes (scenarios) for drivers of special vehicles for the purpose of driving techniques in critical situations.
Modelling and analysis of three-dimensional chemically reacting, radiating Casson-nanofluid flow: thermophoresis and Brownian motion effects
Authors: Tanuku Poorna Kantha , Mamidi Lakshmi Prasanna , Gundagani Murali
Published: November 2024

In the presence of a porous material and a magnetic field, the authors of this work must evaluate the combined effects of chemical reaction and thermal radiation on a Casson-nanofluid flow in three dimensions towards a linearly stretched sheet. Using the Roseland approximation, which integrates the effect of thermal radiation into the energy equation, thermal radiation is included in this study. The governing equation with initial and boundary conditions is converted to dimensionless form by adding pertinent non-dimensional variables and parameters, and then numerically solved using the finite element method. The effects of key variables on velocity, temperature, and concentration are shown graphically, followed by tabular representations of the effect of these parameters on skin friction, Nusselt, and Sherwood numbers and an in-depth explanation. This is essential for several technological applications, such as oil heat recovery, termite welding, transpiration cooling, and drag reduction. A comparison of our numerical results with previously published data reveals a high degree of agreement between the two sets of information. This new research has implications for energy systems, biomedical engineering and aeronautics, and has significant implications for the food industry.
Acoustic Radiation Patterns of Different Polygon Piston Surfaces
Authors: Yusuf Taofeek Ayotunde , Aodu Sheriff Abiodun , Alabi Abeeb Opeyemi
Published: November 2024

Transducers are used in acoustic remote sensing and several other modern applications. The radiating surface geometry of a single acoustic transducer affects its beam pattern and has a cumulative effect on the overall performance of an array configuration. In addition, the transducers with polygon radiating surfaces provide more compact structure in an array than the circular pistons due to their flat surface edges. However, until now, the radiation patterns of acoustic polygonal pistons have not been exclusively studied and documented. In this study, the directional factors of acoustic pistons with polygonal surfaces of three to ten sides were derived analytically from the first principle using the Rayleigh integral. These directional factors were used to synthesise and characterise the radiation patterns of the piston sources in comparison with the baffled circular piston of an equivalent surface area. The rectangular, the triangular, and the rest of the polygons have the same performance with the circular piston when the surface diameter is not higher than 0.5λ, 0.28λ and 0.43λ, respectively. The main lobe of the acoustic emissions from the square is very close to that of the circular piston whose diameter is greater than a wavelength while that of the rectangle is wider. The results show that the radiating surface perimeter and symmetry are the two most critical factors affecting the beam characteristics of a piston source rather than the surface area or the number of sides. The theoretical results were validated using the finite element method with an excellent compliance.
The Many Do Not Recollect: The Nature and Scope of Recollection in Plato’s Phaedrus
Authors: Shepardson Douglas A.
Published: November 2024

Plato’s theory of recollection is classically treated as an account of “concept-acquisition” or “concept-possession,” explaining how the mind is able to employ general concepts, despite the senses only perceiving particulars. Against this, recent scholars (esp. Dominic Scott) have argued that recollection is not necessary for ordinary reasoning. Recollection is not about ordinary concepts that humans use; rather, recollection is a rare, prototypically philosophic affair that is satisfied by becoming aware of Forms or principles associated with them, which most people never experience. On this view, most people do not recollect. A third position accepts both views: there are two types of recollection in Plato, one concerned with ordinary cognition, and one concerned with philosophical awareness of the Forms. This paper argues for the narrow reading, focusing on the Phaedrus.
The Stoic Theory of Case
Authors: Durand Marion
Published: November 2024

This article presents a new account of the Stoic theory of case. It argues that cases belong to the Stoic class of lekta and that they play a twofold semantic role. Firstly, they relate words to the world in a process akin to reference. Secondly, they encode syntactic information which captures structural elements of the world, contributing to language’s ability to represent reality and its structure by enabling it to capture both objects and the ways in which these objects relate to each other.
Something New Under the Sun in Anaximenes’ Astronomy?
Authors: van der Sluijs Marinus Anthony
Published: November 2024

Anaximenes famously taught that the sun and other ‘stars’ do not move under the flat earth but around it and explained the night thereby. What he had in mind remains conjectural; the testifying fragments are ambiguous and apparently contradictory. The past 200-odd years have seen a plethora of dissenting interpretations. The bulk of these are here categorised into three groups: that the sun circles at a fixed height above sea level; that it follows the familiar inclined path by day and clings to the northern horizon by night; and that it revolves in a circular orbit inclined relative to the earth. The first two scenarios are repudiated, while the third is fortified with several suggestions. It is argued that Anaximenes’ terms for ‘above’, ‘below’ and ‘around’ did not differentiate the altitudes of celestial bodies relative to the horizon, but the sizes of their orbits – as indicated by their projections on the earth’s plane. The point would have been that bodies in space are far enough from the earth to stay away from anyone’s zenith or nadir – perhaps with exceptions, following pseudo-Plutarch. This approach reconciles the variant readings in the fragments and obviates the need for emendations. The sun would still move through the north at night, but in an arc below the horizon – not horizontally over the Ocean or behind mountains, as some had it. Thus, Anaximenes would have enhanced Anaximander’s discovery that space facilitates inclined circular orbits by surrounding the earth on all sides. Awareness of the far-northern midnight twilight and the aurora borealis may have fed into all of these worldviews, the former legitimately and the latter fallaciously.
Relational Transilience in the Garden: Plant–Human Encounters in More-than-Human Life Narratives
Authors: Alexander Vera
Published: November 2024

Whereas many indigenous and non-western cultures see plants and humans as connected, western worldviews tend to disregard plants as material commodities. Plant non-thinking of this kind is increasingly being challenged in response to the environmental threats arising from human exceptionalism. This essay investigates garden narratives as a form of more-than-human life writing which depicts plant–human relations as mutually transformative and reciprocal. I argue that garden narratives pioneer such a rethinking as a win-win scenario. The positive developments garden writers document are consistent with a concept put forward in environmental psychology: transilience. Making reference to five recent western garden narratives I show how plant encounters can help us move towards an emerging environmental culture which emphasises more-than-human embeddedness and embraces symbiotic over competitive relations.
Production of phenolic-rich slow pyrolysis liquid extracts by supercritical carbon dioxide fractionation
Authors: Möck Dennis Marvin Janek , Radtke Silke , Riegert Christiane , Appelt Jörn
Published: November 2024

To produce biogenic phenolic-rich liquids, which could be of great interest to the adhesive, wood preservation and coating industry, beech wood slow pyrolysis liquid (SPL) was extracted with supercritical CO2 (scCO2). To this end, a scCO2 extraction plant was extended with a separation unit with three separators. A stepwise depressurisation of the scCO2 in the separators enabled various fractions of the extracted SPL, with differing compositions, to be collected. During depressurisation, the density of the scCO2 (724 kg/m3–2 kg/m3) and, thus, the solubilities of the extracted substances in scCO2 were reduced in three separators. At a density of 261 kg/m3 in the second separator, extracts with a content of up to 41.1 wt.% GC-detectable monomeric phenolic substances were produced. At lower scCO2 densities in the subsequent separator, the proportion of better scCO2-soluble substances, such as acids, ketones and furans, increased in the extracts.
Inspired by animal species: biomimicry in participatory research
Authors: Broscheit Jessica
Published: November 2024

Inspired by the rich tapestry of nature, biomimicry encourages designers, engineers, and researchers to draw inspiration from the natural world to create technological solutions. However, little is known about the usage of biomimicry in participatory research involving local people without technical expertise. In this paper, we present two case studies to explore how performative biomimicry is when applied in a participatory research process with local people of different ages. To this end, we conducted two different case studies and asked our participants to analyze the characteristics of different animal species to design an interactive prototype that addresses a specific task. Both case studies demonstrated promising potential for biomimicry, as the participants drew inspiration from animal species to develop functional prototypes and narratives that resonate on an emotional level. Finally, we discuss the benefits of integrating biomimicry in participatory research and how this method could be used to promote social change and transformation in the society, for example, in STEM education, digital literacy, and environmental awareness.
What Explains Differences in Minimum Wage Growth Between EU Member States?
Authors: Baumann Arne
Published: November 2024

There are considerable differences in minimum wage growth between EU member states with national minimum wages. Potential sources for these differences are discrepancies in economic fundamentals and institutional differences in how minimum wages are adjusted. Using a novel dataset based on macroeconomic data, institutional information on minimum wage setting and data on economic policy orientation and elections, the article tests whether growth differences in the minimum wage of 21 EU member states during the time period 2000 to 2020 can be explained by a catch-up dynamic in new EU member states, by different growth models of EU member states or by differences in the actors that are responsible for the adjustment of minimum wages. The results show that across the entire sample and irrespective of actors, minimum wage growth follows consumer price inflation and wage growth most closely. Higher than average minimum wage growth rates in EU member states stem from overshooting inflation during the period of EU accession, reducing wage inequality and increasing the Kaitz index. Actors also mattered for minimum wage growth. Adjustments by social partner consensus led to higher minimum wage growth than the benchmark of indexed minimum wages, introducing a distributive element to minimum wage adjustments.
Cross-Cultural Transmission of the Images of “The Story of Three Fishes” in Ancient Europe and Asia and the Relationship Between Texts and Images
Authors: Chen Ming
Published: November 2024

Numerous Buddhist tales originating from ancient India have traversed the expansive Silk Road, journeying across Western Asian cultural terrain to reach distant corners of Europe. The several types of “The Story of Three Fishes” from Indian folktales not only was narrated in the Pāli Jātaka, Epic Mahābhārata, Pañcatantra, Hitopadeśa, and Somadeva’s Kathāsaritsāgara at different times, but also was revised or even changed into the Kalīla wa-Dimna, Sogidan Tales, Mathnawī (Rumi)’s Masnavi, Anwár-i-Suhailí, and many translated versions of Kalīla wa-Dimna, such as Kalīlah va Dimnah, Buch der Beispiele der alten Weisen, and Directorium Humanae Vitae in different languages. This narrative transcends textual boundaries, traversing continents and epochs to manifest in diverse visual representations. By scrutinizing its origins and the evolving interplay between its textual and visual renditions, this paper endeavors to illuminate the intricate channels through which ancient Indian culture and religion communicated. Furthermore, it serves as a compelling empirical lens for comprehending the cultural exchange between ancient Europe and Asia.
Manufacturing sustainable composite building materials: from waste, to the lab, to the community
Authors: Agyeman Boateng Enis , Bilal Miah , Pandapas Christopher , Singappuli Naomee , Yohay Ezra , Ismael Achirri , Cote Danielle , Krueger Robert
Published: November 2024

This paper describes how our team took waste plastic and coconut fibers to create a composite strong enough to be used for roof sheathing in West Africa. Part one details the necessary background and literature review, our research design, and findings from lab work conducted in the summer of 2023. In part two of the paper, we describe a pilot test of reproducing our results outside the lab in a rural Ghanaian community. Through a co-design process, the team worked in a peer-to-peer relationship with community members of Akyem Dwenase in Ghana’s Eastern Region to test the process of transforming waste plastic into roof sheathing using technology designed in Ghana. The project was borne out of a MS project in Science and Technology for Innovation in Global Development and supported by a team of undergraduates who, under the supervision of faculty, worked for seven weeks in Ghana to develop and test the prototype. The paper concludes with areas for future work.
Isothermal aging effect on SAC interconnects of various Ag contents: Nonlinear simulations
Authors: Gharaibeh Mohammad A.
Published: November 2024

The mechanical behavior of the tin (Sn)–silver (Ag)–copper (Cu) (SAC) lead-free solders is strongly influenced by the isothermal aging due to the evolution of the microstructure and mechanical properties. This study aims to examine the influence of pre-isothermal aging at 100°C on the mechanical behavior of different SACN05 alloys with different silver content including

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and 4% by applying nonlinear finite element analysis. The mechanical properties, including elastic and inelastic properties, of the SAC systems with various Ag percentages are gathered from the literature and incorporated in thorough thermomechanical simulations. In addition to the unaged solders condition, two aging periods, 6 and 12 months, are studied. The computational results showed that the mechanical response of pre-aged SACN05 solders is significantly influenced by the aging duration and silver content. Specifically, interconnects with higher Ag percentage are shown to be more resistive to aging and expected to have lower thermally induced inelastic deformations, strains, and strain energies. Therefore, better thermal fatigue performance and improved failure resistance is potentially expected. However, the pre-isothermally aged SACN05 solders generally exhibit lower resistance to the accumulations of inelastic strains and strain energies. Thus, it is probable that pre-aged SACN05 solders will demonstrate deterioration in thermal fatigue performance compared to unaged interconnects. Nonetheless, the aged SAC solder systems could be an innovative solution for designing electronic devices regularly exposed to shock and impact loading as the aging process significantly reduces the brittleness of the SnAgCu alloys.
Do Good People Love Themselves? On Rational Self-love in Kant
Authors: Tönissen Bas
Published: November 2024

Kant is frequently read as saying that all self-love is bad, and the virtuous agent is one who suppresses self-love as much as possible. This paper argues that this is mistaken and that the right kind of self-love – what Kant calls rational self-love – plays an important role in a successful moral life. It shows how Kant provides a detailed taxonomy of different kinds of self-love. He contrasts the (practical) incentive of self-love with the (pathological) feeling of it, self-love of benevolence with self-love of delight, and self-absorbed/selfish with rational/moral varieties of each. The paper then argues that, while the Critique of Practical Reason only identifies a self-absorbed variety of self-love of delight, self-conceit, it gains a rational counterpart in Religion within the Bounds of Mere Reason: “self-contentment”. This is a positive self-love of delight uniquely felt by the morally good person. It is suggested that this shift reflects Kant’s increasing appreciation of the affective dimension of the virtuous life: for imperfect human beings the moral law must not only be worth obeying, but worth loving. Thus, while for morally bad agents self-love and morality inevitably conflict, good agents can and should love themselves.
How to detonate a semiotic bomb: the dynamics of Lotmanian explosion in the semiosphere
Authors: Rodríguez Higuera Claudio Julio
Published: November 2024

Lotmanian cultural dynamics involve change through textual interaction. Texts, offering vehicles for information, play a central role in this, with cultural change happening in two modes: gradual and explosive instances of texts that alter the semiosphere. This paper focuses on the process of explosion–an unpredictable mode of change in Lotmanian theory–through a metaphorical methodology, by introducing the concept of semiotic bomb. A semiotic bomb works here as a theoretical object that tries to harness the effect of explosion within the semiosphere. The concept of semiotic bomb serves as both a way to examine what is necessary for explosion to happen and as a theoretical exercise in attempting to predict the unpredictable in culture. We contend that cultural change must be understood in terms of sign configurations and information transmission through Charles Morris’s behavioral semiotics, and that this basis works as a complement of Juri Lotman’s cultural dynamics by grounding textual information on behavioral change and resignification. Taking a note from information and semiotic warfare, we look at what it takes for culture to foster change through the prism of Lotman’s theory, and how we could conceptualize intentional change through information manipulation and presentation. The paper offers a novel look into the logic of explosion within the semiotic theory of Juri Lotman and proposes conceptual avenues for exploring, analyzing and tentatively implementing the concept of explosion by the proposed idea of a semiotic bomb.
Adequacy of Copyright Information or Documentation, the Need for Training in, and Evaluation of Mechanisms for Delivering Copyright Education in Academic Libraries in Ghana
Authors: Adu Theresa L. , Asare Comfort Boatemaa , Arthur Charles Kofi
Published: November 2024

With academic libraries becoming increasingly involved in copyright issues, the ability to responsibly identify a copyright-protected material is becoming important in the administration of reprographic materials in academic libraries. A mixed methods approach was employed to evaluate the adequacy of copyright information or documentation, the need for training, and the mechanisms for educating library users on responsible use of reprographic materials that ensures a balance of stakeholder rights. Quantitative data was collected from 38 library staff and 530 postgraduate students, while qualitative data was collected from four head librarians (through one-on-one interview sessions), and two groups of six postgraduate students each from two public and two private universities in Ghana (through focus group discussion sessions). Only 21.4 % stated that copyright information or documentation on copyright policies on their university campuses was adequate. Copyright education for both staff and students was generally low in all the four institutions. Only “classroom training” had significant impact on users’ understanding of copyright laws and policies. “Professional associations,” “study visits,” and “consultant training” had little impact on the understanding of students about copyright laws despite most library staff being either “comfortable” or “very comfortable” with their level of knowledge on copyright issues. There is therefore the need to incorporate copyright issues in the school curriculum for students as well as institute CPD programs for professional librarians if academic librarians are to efficiently and adequately play their roles as agents of copyright education to the university community.
Ferroptosis-related prognostic model of mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Gao Qianwen , Wang Xin , Zhang Yue , Wen Jingjing , Wang Fangfang , Lin Zhimei , Feng Yu , Huang Jingcao , Li Qian , Luo Hongmei , Liu Xiang , Zhai Xinyu , Li Linfeng , He Siyao , Mi Ziyue , Zhang Li , Niu Ting , Xu Caigang , Zheng Yuhuan
Published: November 2024

Background

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent programmed cell death, is closely related to cancer prognosis. In this study, we established a model of ferroptosis related genes for prognostic evaluation of patients with MCL.

Methods

Using the single-cell RNA sequencing datasets GSE184031 and mRNA sequencing data GSE32018 from the Gene Expression Omnibus, we identified 139 ferroptosis-related genes in MCL. Next a prognostic model was constructed by Cox regression and Least absolute selection and shrinkage Operator regression analysis. Finally, we used CIBERSORT to analyze the immune microenvironment and the “oncoPredict” package to predict potential drugs.

Results

In our model, the prognosis of MCL patients was assessed by risk scoring using 7 genes ANXA1, IL1B, YBX1, CCND1, MS4A1, MFHAS1, and RILPL2. The patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups based on our model, and the high-risk patients had inferior overall survival. Finally, according to our model and computational drug sensitivity analysis, four small molecule compounds, BMS-754807, SB216763, Doramapimod, and Trametinib, were identified as potential therapeutic agents for patients with MCL.

Conclusion

In summary, we provide a prognostic model with ferroptosis-related gene signature for MCL. This study provides a prognostic model with ferroptosis-related gene signature for MCL. The results show that the model helps predict prognosis in MCL.
Shorter but richer versus longer with less information: linguistic differentiation between British Sign Language and sign supported English
Authors: Rowley Katherine , Cormier Kearsy
Published: November 2024

The distinction between natural sign languages and sign-supported speech is a controversial topic and difficult to assess purely on structural terms because of language contact. Here, we consider British Sign Language (BSL) and Sign Supported English (SSE) with reference to Irvine and Gal’s (2000. Language ideology and linguistic differentiation. In P. V. Kroskrity (ed.), Regimes of language, 35–84. Oxford: Currey) framework on linguistic differentiation. Using interview data from 121 deaf BSL signers from the BSL Corpus, we show that this framework allows us to better understand how BSL and SSE are defined by BSL signers. We refer to the semiotic processes of this framework: iconisation, fractal recursivity, and erasure. BSL, including its varieties, is strongly associated with deaf communities in Britain. Specific grammatical forms in BSL that differ markedly from English constructions are presented as exemplars of sign language use (iconisation), oppositions between deafness and hearingness are repeatedly applied to different social groups (fractal recursivity and iconisation), and occurrences that may not align with this opposition are rarely acknowledged (erasure). We suggest that these semiotic processes are motivated by language maintenance and educational policies. We conclude with a discussion on how deaf signers distinguish between BSL and SSE, suggesting distinctions made are ideologically driven with political and historical roots and better understood from a translanguaging perspective.

Abstract and keywords in British Sign Language (BSL) can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtZomy9ab2U.
Evolution of climate-smart agriculture research: A science mapping exploration and network analysis
Authors: Zaidi Abdelhamid , Ajibade Samuel-Soma M. , Shah Mohd Asif , Bashir Faizah Mohammed , Falude Emmanuel , Dodo Yakubu Aminu , Adewolu Adeoye Olugbenga , Ngo-Hoang Dai-Long
Published: November 2024

The integrated approach of bibliometric mapping and literature review was adopted to critically examine the evolution of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) research climate from 2012 to 2023 using publications data recovered from the Elsevier Scopus database. The publication trends, stakeholder profiles, social networks, and thematic area analysis on CSA research were examined. Findings revealed that the publication trends on CSA research revealed an incremental pattern from 2012 to 2023. Stakeholder profile analysis identified numerous authors, affiliations, and countries actively engaged in CSA research. The most prolific researcher is Mangi L. Jat, whereas Wageningen University & Research is the most prolific affiliation. Finally, the United States is the most prolific nation. Stakeholder’s productivity was ascribed to a combination of factors ranging from access to research funding to collaborations. The most active funder of CSA research is CGIAR (Consortium of International Agricultural Research Centres), which has funded 52 publications, gained 1,529 citations, and an h-index of 20. The CGIAR has greatly supported the works of highly prolific authors such as Mangi L. Jat, Hanuman S. Jat, and Suresh K. Kakraliya. Social network analysis revealed strong, active, and extensive links, particularly between nations such as the US, India, Kenya, and Ethiopia. The cluster and thematic area analyses of the CSA research landscape revealed three areas, namely, Climate-Resilient Agricultural Adoption, Climate-Responsive Agricultural Practices, and Integrated Food Systems, which are the current focus of stakeholders in the field. Overall, the study showed that CSA is a broad and interdisciplinary topic with a significant impact on the social, economic, and environmental aspects of humanity and societies across the globe.
Implementation and evaluation of Pressurized IntraThoracic Aerosol Chemotherapy (PITAC) for the treatment of patients with malignant pleural effusion: study protocol for the Danish phase-I PITAC-OPC5 study
Authors: Hansen Pernille Schjødt , Graversen Martin , Detlefsen Sönke , Ainsworth Alan Patrick , Fristrup Claus Wilki , Eckhoff Lise , Jelin-Klaric Mia , Mortensen Michael Bau
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Pressurized IntraThoracic Aerosol Chemotherapy (PITAC) is a minimally invasive cancer-directed therapy for patients with malignant pleural effusion (MPE) and/or pleural metastasis (PLM). PITAC is based on Pressurized IntraPeritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy, which has proven to be safe and feasible. Since 2012, 47 PITACs have been published, and prospective data on feasibility, safety and potential local response are lacking.

Methods

The prospective, controlled, phase-I study is designed to treat MPE with PITAC. There are no data to support the estimated number of patients needed, but previous experience estimates the non-access rate to 20 %. Twenty eligible patients with MPE will receive two or more PITACs at four-week intervals. During video-assisted thoracoscopy, MPE and/or pleural lavage fluid is evacuated, and the extent of visible PLM is assessed. Pleural biopsies are collected, if possible, for histological response as per Thoracic Regression Grading Score (TRGS). Patients are screened for treatment-related intra- and postoperative complications. The primary outcome is the number of patients with Clavien-Dindo ≥3b or Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events≥4 within 30 days. Secondary objectives include PLM-score, TRGS and cytology, length of hospitalization, personnel safety, quality of life, and change in MPE volume.

Results

PITAC is expected to be safe and feasible for patients and personnel, and achieve positive results in the reduction of MPE volume.

Conclusions

The results may significantly impact the next clinical, technical, and scientific steps in the implementation of PITAC. Given the suboptimal treatment options for MPE and the seemingly promising results of PITAC, we find the implementation of PITAC ethically reasonable and sound.
Hierarchical macro/mesoporous γ-Al2O3 as column matrix for development of low specific activity 99Mo/99mTc generator via 100Mo (γ, n)99Mo reaction
Authors: Gao Ruiqin , Wang Jieru , Tian Wei , Huang Qinggang , Lin Mu , Wu Xiaolei , Qin Zhi
Published: November 2024

99mTc, the daughter product of 99Mo, is a γ-emitting radionuclide with essential diagnostic applications in nuclear medicine. In this paper, an accelerator-based method (100Mo (γ, n)99Mo) for production of 99Mo and 99mTc has been explored. Approximately 68.3 MBq of 99Mo was successfully produced by the irradiation of 100Mo metallic target for 40 h using electron beam with energy of 50 MeV and current of 0.2 μA at electron linear accelerator (Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, IMPCAS). Different types of 99Mo/99mTc generators were prepared using hierarchical macro/mesoporous γ-Al2O3 (HMMA) as column adsorbent, and their performances were evaluated for over one week. 99Mo/99mTc generator with a column (3 mL, 4.2 × 0.95 cm) packed with 0.6 g HMMA exhibited excellent eluting performance. 99mTc could be collected within 4.0 mL of saline solution with high purity, and the elution efficiency could reach >85 %. Furthermore, 99Mo breakthrough in the eluates was negligible (<2 × 10−3 %) and concentration of impurity (<10 ppm) was acceptable. Finally, the enriched 100Mo was eluted from the spent 99Mo/99mTc generator using 1.0 mol/L ammonium hydroxide, and then reduced by high-temperature hydrogen reduction process with a total recovery of 95.3 %. This work demonstrated that the preparation of 99Mo via 100Mo (γ, n)99Mo reaction and isolating 99mTc using HMMA column chromatography have a potential in application.
Comprehensive and in-depth insights into photo-assisted halogenation reactions: a pharmaceutical industry perspective
Authors: Prabhu Aditi , Mali Pradip , Singh Satyapaul A. , Sreedhar Inkollu
Published: November 2024

Halogenation reactions are a vital area of study for the pharmaceutical industry. The study of the reaction conditions along with the reactors and their scale-up is a thrust area in drug synthesis and manufacturing. There is a shift in the research community towards accommodating renewable energy sources which has driven scientists to include energy sources that are sustainable and aid in making the overall process efficient. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges in selecting the best catalyst, light source and reaction conditions for the fluorination, chlorination and bromination reactions. This paper goes a step further to explain the photoreactors’ design and modelling as well as the scale-up of the same. Overall, it provides a comprehensive view of diverse scientific areas, from halogenation in drug synthesis to the potential of photochemical batch and flow approaches in halogenation reactions.
A structured review of the associations between breast cancer and exposures to selected organic solvents
Authors: Westra Sydney , Goldberg Mark S. , Labrèche France , Baumgartner Jill , Ho Vikki
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Our objective was to identify published, peer-reviewed, epidemiological studies that estimated associations between the risk of developing or dying from malignant breast cancer and past exposure to selected organic solvents with reactive metabolites, to delineate the methods used and to synthesize the results.

Content

We undertook a structured review of case-control and cohort studies used to investigate breast cancer risk and exposure to selected organic solvents that produce reactive metabolites in the body. We used SCOPUS, MEDLINE (Ovid) and Web of Science databases from 1966 to December 31, 2023 to identify epidemiological studies that estimated associations between the risk of developing or dying from malignant breast cancer and past exposure to selected organic solvents with reactive metabolites and organic solvents combined as a group.

We described essential methodological characteristics of the 35 studies and presented quantitative results by individual solvent and other characteristics. We did not find compelling evidence that any of the selected organic solvents are implicated in the etiology of breast cancer.

Outlook

As millions of workers are exposed to organic solvents, this topic necessitates further investigation. Future research should focus on elucidating organic solvents that may contribute to the burden of breast cancer.
Beyond “Made in China”: visual rhetoric and cultural functionality in translating the traditional Chinese totem Loong 龙
Authors: Li Ke , Xu Zihan
Published: November 2024

Current inter-disciplinarity has rendered it feasible to utilize implements and methodologies to navigate around the communication of fashion at textual as well as material levels, reified by inter-semiotic and cultural translation. Fashion communication, from the perspective of post-translation studies, is a process of cultural translation with visual symbols as its text, visual rhetoric as its core meaning system, and visual stylists as its translator. This study takes one of the most formidable and awe-inspiring icons – the Chinese totem Loong 龙 as the main research object, through the analysis of multifarious styles of visual text structures across the entire process of fashion communication, to deconstruct the semiotic transformation of Loong 龙 by means of visual rhetoric. In forging this rhetorical dynamic within the realm of visual art, the cultural translative procedure is orchestrated primarily through the registers of field, tenor, and mode. Furthermore, it is molded by the intricate interplay of transitivity, mood, and modality, culminating in this newly proposed concept – “cultural functionality” through the lens of systemic functional grammar. This study, by means of this rhetorical, semiotic approach, forays into the profundity of what is named as “Made in China” and showcases Chinese spirit in fashion communication.
Ektacytometric examination of red blood cells’ morphodynamical features in diabetic nephropathy patients
Authors: Sari-Ak Duygu , Helvaci Nazli , Kural Alev , Tanrikulu Seher , Can Ozgur , Caglar Sena Ebru , Caglar Hifa Gulru , Baydili Kursat Nuri , Karakoc Yunus
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), the primary cause of end-stage renal disease, is associated with chronic hyperglycemia and elevated blood pressure. This study investigates the correlation between DN and changes in hemorheology, which involves blood flow properties.

Methods

At the University of Health Sciences in Istanbul, Türkiye, erythrocyte deformability, aggregation, and viscosity were measured using advanced ektacytometry (Lorrca® Maxsis) on blood samples from 31 healthy individuals, 41 diabetic patients, and 45 patients with diabetic nephropathy from University of Health Sciences Haydarpasa Numune Training and Research Hospital. All hematocrit values were standardized to 40 %.

Results

Deformability of red blood cells (RBCs), indicated by the elongation index at shear stresses from 0 to 30 Pa, significantly decreased in the diabetic nephropathy group compared to diabetic patients without nephropathy and healthy controls (mean min-max SD: 0.650 (0.63–0.67) vs. 0.659 (0.64–0.68) and 0.642 (0.62–0.66), respectively; p<0.01). RBC aggregation significantly increased in the diabetic nephropathy group (mean min-max SD: 77.52 (57.84–90.7) vs. 69.96 (53.13–80.53) in controls; p<0.01), and plasma viscosity was also higher (mean min-max SD: 1.48 (1.27–2.02) mPa·s vs. 1.34 (1.22–1.72) mPa·s in controls; p<0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate marked hemorheological changes in diabetic nephropathy patients. These changes suggest that evaluating RBC deformability, aggregation, and viscosity is critical for developing therapeutic strategies aimed at reducing vascular complications and preventing tissue damage in diabetics.
Customized Employment: A Way Beyond “Food, Flowers and Filth”?
Authors: Assaf Marie
Published: November 2024

This article critically examines the effectiveness and limitations of contemporary employment programmes in the U.S. designed for individuals with disabilities, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Despite the noble intentions and efforts to promote inclusion, the prevailing logic of employment often confines these individuals to peripheral, unskilled job markets. The analysis highlights a systemic issue within the welfare state framework, where customized employment initiatives, while personalized, fail to lift individuals out of precarious situations. By delving into the perspectives of agents from nonprofits involved in these programmes, the article underscores the role played by such initiatives in categorizing individuals based on definitions of employability.
Verwaltungsverflechtungen als Herausforderung der interorganisationalen Kooperation zur Reintegration von Arbeitslosen mit Gesundheitseinschränkungen
Authors: Becker Sten , Sackmann Reinhold
Published: November 2024

Im Fokus des Beitrags stehen Friktionen an der Schnittstelle zwischen Jobcentern (JC) und Deutscher Rentenversicherung (DRV). Wir analysieren die organisationale Logik, nach der Arbeitslosigkeit bearbeitet wird. Welche Kooperationsfriktionen erwachsen aus differenten Organisationskulturen und wie thematisieren die Professionen diese? Grundlage sind zum einen Interviews mit Fachkräften, die in einem Modellprojekt die Zusammenarbeit erproben. Daneben prüfen wir an einem Fallbeispiel zur Übergangsgeldproblematik, wie die Akteure mit Herausforderungen umgehen. Ausgewertet wird mit der Dokumentarischen Methode. Es zeigt sich, dass JC und DRV in unterschiedlichen Institutionalisierungen von Leitideen gründen (aktivierende Arbeitsvermittlung vs. Rentenansprüche nur für Erwerbsunfähige), differente normative Isomorphien in Bezug auf organisationsspezifische (Hochschul-)Ausbildungen und formalisierte Routinen aufweisen. Unterschiedliche Routinen führen nicht notwendigerweise zu Friktionen, da sie mit unterschiedlicher Intensität (bei Dominanz des JC) praktiziert werden. Der zeitliche Handlungsdruck des JC-Alltags wird durch eine Orientierung an „Fördern und Begleiten“ aufgelockert. Friktionen der Leitideen sind durch die Hartz-Reformen reduziert worden, da nun auch im Reha-Bereich eine Erwerbsorientierung dominiert. Die Friktionen konnten mit gezielten Öffnungen, speziellem Personal und Interaktionsforen gut bearbeitet werden. Schnittstellenprobleme aufgrund von (zeitlichen) Zuständigkeiten (Übergangsgeldproblematik) waren trotz intensiven Austausches auf Netzwerkebene nicht lösbar.
La arbitrariedad del signo como posibilidad de producción semiósica
Authors: Morales Campos Arturo , Juan Carlos González Vidal Juan Carlos
Published: November 2024

El punto central del presente artículo radica en proponer la arbitrariedad del signo, fuera del campo lingüístico saussureano, como uno de los factores relevantes que ha llevado a la cultura humana a desarrollar una amplia gama de posibilidades semiósicas o de producción y comunicación de significado. Bajo este marco, es preciso comprender la semiosis como un proceso bio-cultural complejo y material que posibilita a los organismos animales (el humano incluido) a generar modelos cognitivos (tanto subjetivos como objetuales) con la finalidad de establecer relaciones (de cualquier tipo) con la realidad. En el caso de los humanos, la estrecha vinculación entre las esferas biológica y cultural se entiende por la participación de subprocesos somáticos y de múltiples prácticas culturales. Para todo lo anterior, ha sido preciso adoptar una perspectiva inter y transdisciplinar. En ese sentido, se ha recurrido a la semiótica cognitiva y a las neurociencias cognitivas.
Stunting In Java Island: Spatial and Risk Factor Analysis
Authors: Widya Anisya Nur , Samudro Bhimo Rizky , Gravitiani Evi
Published: November 2024

The prevalence of stunting is above 20%, indicating a significant health problem in Indonesia. This research aims to identify the predictors influencing stunting on the island of Java and to map its distribution using Geo Maps Orange data mining. Data analysis employs multiple linear regression methods with cross-sectional data. Secondary data was obtained from the Badan Pusat Statistik and the Nutrition Status Survey in 2022. The data was processed using Eviews 10 and Geo Maps Orange data mining. The results show that stunting is influenced by various variables. The Human Development Index (HDI) and proper sanitation have a significant negative influence on stunting. Based on mapping, Central Java Province has the highest incidence of stunting, while DKI Jakarta has the lowest incidence on the island of Java. Stakeholders can use this information to promote better parenting patterns, health hygiene practices, affection or compassion practices, and the implementation of clean water sanitation programs to create quality environmental conditions and mitigate the threat of infectious diseases, especially stunting
Does Local Government Expenditure Lead to Human Development in Indonesia?
Authors: Imantria Benny , Kurnia Akhmad Syakir
Published: November 2024

Human development has become a national development priority in the vision of Indonesia Emas 2045, but the HDI score shows district-level inequality in increasing local government expenditure. This study aims to identify the effect of local government expenditure realization on HDI. The data used is 508 districts of Indonesia in 2017-2022, and it was analyzed using a panel data regression fixed-effect model. The novelty of this study lies in the local government at the district level and local government expenditure according to function and type classification. The study shows that education expenditure, health expenditure, economic expenditure, employee expenditure, and goods and services expenditure have a significant positive effect on HDI, but capital expenditure has a significant negative effect on HDI. Local governments are expected to understand the dominant role of health expenditure in increasing HDI, increase the budget allocation for economic and capital expenditure, reduce the budget allocation for employee and goods and services, and measure the performance of local government expenditure.