bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Debt Swaps: Go Big or Go Home - the View of the Borrower
Authors: Spencer-Henry Nadia
Published: January 2025

Sovereign debt management during times of economic distress can be particularly painful for small states. In some cases, capacity constraints have prevented these countries from institutionalising debt management grounded in sound macroeconomic and monetary policies. In other cases, these countries have borrowed at high cost and high risk, banking on high returns that were then eroded by economic- and climate-related shocks. The climate crisis, unlike others, is persistent and requires ongoing attention.
The Material Connection between Classical Mechanics and Relativity
Authors: Hu Chang-Wei
Published: January 2025

In the past, the relationship between classical mechanics and relativity focused on the quantitative aspect, and it was considered that relativity described the precise quantitative relationship of things, while classical mechanics was only an approximation in the case of low speed and weak gravitational field. This paper points out that there is a special material connection between classical mechanics and relativity, where the special substance is the physical vacuum, which is everywhere, and people are always looking at the world through the physical vacuum. In the case of low speed and weak gravitational field, the density fluctuation of physical vacuum is small, and the classical mechanics without considering the effect of physical vacuum can be established; in the case of high speed and strong gravitational field, the density fluctuation of physical vacuum is large, and the relativistic effect appears, which can be seen as a “lens effect” caused by changes in the density of the physical vacuum. The so-called relativistic factor is actually the compressible factor of ether density changing with velocity. Understanding this material connection will reveal the limitations of relativity and provide new ideas for the further development of physics.
A bibliometric analysis of comparative psychology and animal behaviour research in Hispanic America
Authors: Herrera-Aroca Pilar , Velásquez-Díaz Laura María , Droguett Francisca , Varas Felipe I. , Badilla Jonathan , Quezada-Scholz Vanetza E. , Miguez Gonzalo , Laborda Mario A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: This study aimed to quantify and analyse scientific activity in Comparative Psychology and Animal Behaviour across the 19 Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America. This was achieved by examining articles published in journals indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection from 1975 to 2024 by authors affiliated with institutions in
these countries. Method: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using 26 journals specialised in Comparative Psychology and Animal Behaviour, covering aspects such as historical production, authorship analysis, manuscripts, citations, countries, affiliations, and funding sources. The most relevant keywords, thematic mapping, thematic trends, and most frequently studied species were also identified. Results: A total of 1,971 articles were found. Most of the research output from Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America was concentrated in Mexico (35.1%), Argentina (21.6%), and Panama (12.8%). The contributions were mainly from authors associated with the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (16%), the
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (14%), and the Universidad de Buenos Aires (8%). Additionally, it was identified that animal welfare and sexual selection are central themes in the field. Further indicators are presented to reflect the status of comparative psychology and animal behaviour research in this region. Conclusion: The primary limitations and
gaps in the region are discussed, highlighting areas for improvement in the field.
Nový prístup slovenského občianskeho zákonníka k zabezpečovaciemu prevodu práva
Authors: Dulaková Jakúbeková Denisa
Published: January 2025

The article provides the information on the legal regulations concerning the security institute – the security transfer of rights that has been amended by the amendment of the Slovak Civil Code No. 568/2007 Coll. entering into force on 01.01.2008. Due to the fact that the act No. 568/2007 Coll. Aimed primarily at the amendment of the Act No. 527/2002 Coll. on voluntarily auctions and on amendment of the Act of the Slovak National Council No. 323/1992 Coll. on notaries and notarial acts (Notarial Procedure Act) as amended, changes of the other acts affected by the amendment including the Civil Code could stay unnoticed. Since the amendment brought substantial changes of the institute of the security transfer of rights, even changes of the attitude towards the compensation function of this institute, it is necessary to pay proper attention to it.
Cold stress-induced biochemical and molecular responses in Safflower (Carthamus tinctorious L.)
Authors: Kereilwe D , Malambane G , Emongor V E , Batlang U
Published: January 2025

Cold stress causes substantial losses in global agricultural productivity. When exposed to cold stress, plants usually exhibit a variety of cold-induced physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses. Safflower is one of the oldest, marginalized, neglected and domesticated multipurpose oilseed crops which is uniquely affected by cold stress at different growth stages. Because of lack of systematic research on cold signalling pathways and gene regulatory networks, the underlying biochemical and molecular mechanisms of cold signal transduction in different developmental stages of safflower are poorly understood. Therefore, this study sought to detect biochemical response and identify cold responsive safflower genes expressed at the rosette and bolling stages to provide novel insight about the growth stage’s differential responses to cold stress. The results demonstrated that pseudo-marker snap genes CtAH10T0001700.1 and CtAH10T0001500.1 are the E3 ligase genes with RING finger domain while CtAH10T0000500 matched the GRAS family genes. These genes successfully exhibited similar cold responses as per their respective family. Overexpression of some E3 genes like CIP8 and HOS 1 could be associated with the cold susceptibility of plants in the bolling stage of safflower. Additionally, CtAH10T0001700.1 expression was found to be positively correlated with electrolyte leakage and proline content at the rosette stage. Meanwhile CtAH10T0001500.1, a negative cold regulator significantly correlated with electrolyte leakage and proline content. While CtAH10T0000500, a positive cold regulator significantly correlated with electrolyte leakage and proline at the rosette stage, but negatively associated with the two parameters at bolling stage. Overall, the genes were found to play a significant role in cold responsiveness of safflower plants at different growth stages.
Impact of management technologies on banana growth and fusarium wilt mitigation
Authors: Doyal S , Kavitha P S , Muthuvel I , Sudha A , Vanitha K
Published: January 2025

The study was conducted during 2023-2024 under the Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The objective of the study was to find out the best technology for the Fusarium wilt management in the banana cultivar Rasthali under pot culture experiment. The experiment was conducted with nine treatments replicated thrice with three plants in each replication in a completely randomized design (CRD). The treatment T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) +Salicylic acid 5mM spray showed more root length (71.89 cm) and number of roots (30) than other treatments. The treatment T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) + Salicylic acid 5mM spray showed a 33 % improvement in root length over absolute control (T1) and a 53 % increase over inoculated control (T2). Whereas the number of roots was 50% more in T7 than in T1 and 76 % more than in T2. The length of the pseudostem and girth of the pseudostem were 69.40 cm and 25.43 cm. The leaf area was 2.99 m2 and the number of leaves was 12. The physiological parameters such as chlorophyll content (57.03), stomatal resistance (0.521 Scm-1) and transpiration rate (9.572 ?g H2O cm2 S-1) of T7 were significant. In soil enzymes, the chitinase activity was 37.50 ?mol/min/g and ? 1, 3 Glucanase 40.33 ?mol/min/g. It showed less disease incidence (DI %) of 18.86 % and a disease severity index (DSI %) of 14.73 %. The absolute control (T1), without the pathogen, had no disease. The inoculated control (T2) showed the highest disease incidence and disease severity index of 100 %. T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) + Salicylic acid 5 mM spray showed less disease incidence (DI %) of 18.86 %and a disease severity index (DSI%) of 22.93 % over the absolute control (T1). And 81.14 % and 77.07 % reduced disease incidence (DI %) and disease severity index (DSI %) compared to inoculated control (T2). It is concluded that T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) + Salicylic acid 5 mM spray can be used to control Fusarium wilt in cultivar Rasthali.
Filozoficzna refleksja nad istotą informatyki
Authors: Stacewicz Paweł
Published: January 2025

The paper is a review of Izabela Bondecka-Krzykowska’s book entitled „O przedmiocie badań informatycznych. Studium filozoficzne” (eng. “On the subject of computer science research. A philosophical study”). It discusses the main theses of the book, the composition of the content in individual chapters and suggestions for topics that could be taken up in subsequent editions of the monograph. A number of polemical remarks were also formulated.
TÜKETİCİLERİN REKLAM HARCAMASI ALGILARININ MARKA DEĞERİ VE SATIN ALMA NİYETİ ÜZERİNE ETKİSİ: GENÇ TÜKETİCİLER ÜZERİNE BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: Erdoğan Görkem
Published: January 2025

Bu araştırmada algılanan reklam harcamaları, marka değeri boyutlarını etkileyen faktörler, marka değeri ve satın alma niyeti değişkenleri arasındaki ilişkilerin incelenmesi amaçlanmaktadır. Araştırma, Ankara’da yaşayan yaşları 18-29 arasında olan genç tüketiciler üzerinde gerçekleştirilmiş ve toplamda 263 kişiden veri toplanmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda algılanan reklam harcamalarının marka farkındalığı, marka çağrışımları ve marka sadakati üzerinde etkisi olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Ayrıca araştırma modelinde yer alan bütün marka değerini etkileyen faktörlerin marka değerini etkilediği ve marka farkındalığı ile marka sadakatinin satın alma niyetini etkilediği ortaya konmuştur. Marka çağrışımlarının satın alma niyeti üzerinde, algılanan kalitenin satın alma niyeti üzerinde ve algılanan reklam harcamalarının algılanan kalite üzerinde anlamlı bir etkisi olmadığı tespit edilmiştir.
Associations between circulating amino acids and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease in individuals living with severe obesity
Authors: Maltais‐Payette Ina , Bourgault Jérôme , Gauthier Marie‐Frédérique , Biertho Laurent , Marceau Simon , Julien François , Mitchell Patricia L. , Couture Christian , Brière Francis , Corbeil Jacques , Arsenault Benoit J. , Tchernof André
Published: January 2025

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) describes liver diseases caused by the accumulation of triglycerides in hepatocytes (steatosis) as well as the resulting inflammation and fibrosis. Previous studies have demonstrated that accumulation of fat in visceral adipose tissue compartments and the liver is associated with alterations in the circulating levels of some amino acids, notably glutamate. This study aimed to investigate the associations between circulating amino acids, particularly glutamate, and MASLD. In addition, we hypothesized that liver steatosis, concomitant with visceral adiposity, could contribute to the association between circulating glutamate and visceral obesity. We studied a sample of 150 patients living with severe obesity who were non‐diabetic and selected to represent a wide range of MASLD severity. Liver histological features were determined by a pathologist from a biopsy sample obtained at the time of bariatric surgery. Bulk RNA sequencing measured the hepatic mRNA expression level of selected genes related to the urea cycle and glutamate metabolism. Fasting plasma amino acid levels were measured by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Patients with more advanced steatosis had larger visceral adipocytes, higher levels of circulating tyrosine, glutamate, and alanine as well as lower levels of serine. MASLD severity was significantly associated with the hepatic mRNA expression of glutamate metabolism genes such as GLS1, GLUL (positively), and NAGS (inversely). In individuals living with obesity, MASLD severity is associated with visceral adipocyte hypertrophy, higher circulating glutamate as well as potential alterations of hepatic amino acid and nitrogen metabolism.
FRAND Licensing of Standard-Essential Patents: Comparing Realistic Ex-Ante and Ex-Post Contracts
Authors: Parcu Pier Luigi , Rossi Maria Alessandra , Silei David
Published: January 2025

The paper presents a bargaining model that compares two forms of licensing of Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) in terms of their ability to deliver Fair, Reasonable and Non-Discriminatory (FRAND) royalties. The first is a profit-based or ad valorem contract signed ex-ante, before the product market entry of the implementer. The second is a lump sum contract signed ex-post, after implementers’ profits have been realized. Both contracts are realistic, i.e. compatible with the typical timing of standardization activities. We find that the ex-ante contract dominates the ex-post one in many but not all situations. It does when the imbalance in bargaining power between the parties is not too strong, independently of how the latter is distributed. In more extreme situations of bargaining power imbalance (typical hold-up and hold-out situations), ex-ante contracts are again better when the level of litigation costs relative to profits is very high or very low. However, for intermediate levels of litigation costs relative to profits, the threat of litigation may be useful to set royalties that are closer to FRAND. This finding is relevant in light of current regulatory initiatives over-emphasizing ex-ante licensing, like the European SEP Regulation.
Analytic solutions of a generalized complex multi-dimensional system with fractional order
Authors: Baleanu Dumitru , Ibrahim Rabha W.
Published: January 2025

The Duhamel principle is a mathematical principle that allows us to solve linear partial differential equations. This system is generalized by the concept of the

k

k

-symbol fractional calculus. We demonstrate that in specific functional domains, the suggested system produces a global solution. Convergence toward the stable point is investigated. Some special cases are illustrated including the rotated Koebe function, which is used for creating the optimal solutions, where these functions are convex univalent in the open unit disk.
Some fixed point results with the vector degree of nondensifiability in generalized Banach spaces and application on coupled Caputo fractional delay differential equations
Authors: Laksaci Noura , Hasan Fady , Boudaoui Ahmed , Mustafa Zead , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: January 2025

In this work, we prove some fixed point results in generalized Banach spaces (

G
B
S

{\mathfrak{G}}{\mathfrak{B}}{\mathfrak{S}}

s) in the sense of Perov using the vector degree of nondensifiability tools. The given result generalizes Darbo’s and Krasnoselskii’s theorems, which are connected with the vector measure of noncompactness. An existence result for coupled Caputo fractional delay differential equations in the

G
B
S

C

(

[

−
τ
,
T

]

,
R

)

×
C

(

[

−
τ
,
T

]

,
R

)

{\mathfrak{G}}{\mathfrak{B}}{\mathfrak{S}}\hspace{0.33em}{\mathcal{C}}\left(\left[-\tau ,T],{\mathbb{R}})\times {\mathcal{C}}\left(\left[-\tau ,T],{\mathbb{R}})

is given to show the significance and the applicability of our theoretical results.
The Major Questions Doctrine: Judicial Power and the Prevalence of Policy Drift in the United States
Authors: Ramanathan Kumar , Snead Warren
Published: January 2025

A major challenge of governance in the United States is policy drift, the phenomenon wherein a policy’s outcomes are transformed due to a failure to update its rules or structures to meet changing circumstances. Policy drift has been prevalent in recent decades due to declining legislative productivity, a veto-riddled legislative process, and the rapid pace of technological and environmental change. We argue that the emergence of the “major questions doctrine” in Supreme Court jurisprudence is likely to exacerbate the problem of policy drift. This new doctrine enables courts to declare administrative actions as invalid if they are “novel” or of “economic or political significance” and lack “clear congressional authorization.” This doctrine, which departs from past standards that were more deferential to agencies, exacerbates the likelihood of policy drift by limiting the capacity of agencies to actively adapt policy implementation to changing circumstances. By rendering agency action suspect on the basis of novelty or significance, the doctrine limits action in precisely those policy domains most in need of adaptation. We show the relationship between the doctrine and policy drift through case studies of three policy domains (air pollution, student loan debt, and workplace vaccine mandates). We then examine how the doctrine has already begun to spread through lower courts, where its impact is likely to be felt most strongly. Finally, we discuss the normative and theoretical implications of our analysis, noting how the doctrine further concentrates power in the judiciary and undermines democratic accountability and transparency in the policy process.
Small ubiquitin-like modifiers inhibitors lower blood pressure via ERK5/KLF2-dependent upregulation of the eNOS/NO pathway
Authors: Tang Nannan , Li Jiatong , Wang Zhuo , Zuo Jinlu , Zhang Zifeng , Huang Di , Han Yannan , Chen Yuqing , Sun Yilin , Li Xiang , Mu Ruxue , Ma Qingxue , Zhang Jie , Wu Jiaying , Wang He , Zhao Hongxia , Dong Xingli , Wang Zhiguo , Liu Yu , Zhao Dan , Yang Baofeng
Published: January 2025

Background

Small ubiquitin-like modifiers (SUMO)ylation is a dynamic and reversible post-translational modification playing pivotal roles in the regulation of cancer, diabetes, heart failure, and neurological diseases. However, whether SUMO inhibitors also have anti-hypertension effect remains yet to be explored.

Methods

Blood pressure was monitored in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) after Tannic acid (TA) administration for 4 weeks. The contents of nitric oxide (NO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) in the serum of SHR were measured. Isolated endothelium-intact mesenteric artery rings were used to study relaxation effect of SUMO inhibitors. ERK5 SUMOylation was determined using coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) and immunofluorescence (IF). NO levels were analyzed by IF. The expression levels of KLF2 and p-eNOS were semiquantified by Western blot analysis. The transcriptional activity of eNOS promotor was assayed using ChIP-PCR.

Results

Three SUMO inhibitors all reduced the phenylephrine (PE)-induced contraction of mesenteric artery rings in a concentration-dependent manner. Co-IP revealed that ponatinib promoted ERK5 SUMOylation, which was nulled following pretreatment with the SUMO inhibitors. IF displayed that TA increased ERK5 accumulation and its co-localization with SUMO-1 in the nucleus. ChIP-PCR unveiled TA-induced enhancement of KLF2-dependent eNOS promoter activity and upregulation of eNOS/NO expression in HUVECs. In vivo, TA significantly lowered the blood pressure and improved the vascular reactivity by activating the KLF2/eNOS/NO pathway. Additionally, the level of NO was elevated along with decreased ET-1 levels in the serum of SHR.

Conclusions

SUMO inhibitors inhibit ERK5 SUMOylation to promote KLF2-eNOS/NO signaling, indicating their therapeutic potential for the treatment of hypertension.
ISG15 promotes M5-induced hacat cell proliferation through Wnt signaling in psoriasis
Authors: Sun Xianqi , Li Yuzhen , Yu Huiwen , Lin Jiaying , Wang Chen , Liu Quanlin , Bai Bingxue
Published: January 2025

Objective

Psoriasis is a common chronic, recurrent, immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease, which tends to occur in cold areas. Its pathogenesis is currently unclear. This study aims to screen differentially expressed genes in the psoriasis dataset, identify the central genes, detect the expression of central genes in psoriasis lesions of patients in the cold regions and then conduct further research.

Methods

Differential genes associated with psoriasis in the GEO database were analyzed, and functional enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction network analysis. The expression results of the identified genes were validated in psoriasis cell models. The ISG15 gene, which showed the most significant difference in expression, was further studied. The expression level of ISG15 protein in psoriasis was examined. Then, we knocked out ISG15 in psoriasis cell models and detected keratinocyte proliferation by MTT, Real-Time PCR and Western Blot. Western Blot showed the expression of β-catenin after ISG15 gene knockout.

Results

We detected the protein expression of ISG15 in the cold area of Northeast China, and found that the expression of ISG15 increased in patients with psoriasis, and the proliferation of keratinocytes and the expression of β-catenin decreased in psoriasis cell model after ISG15 was knocked down. ISG15 regulates keratinocyte proliferation through Wnt signaling pathway in psoriasis.

Conclusions

ISG15 expression is increased in psoriatic cells and skin lesions of patients with psoriasis. In psoriasis, ISG15 promotes keratinocyte proliferation through the Wnt signaling pathway.
General design flow for waveguide Bragg gratings
Authors: Brückerhoff-Plückelmann Frank , Buskasper Tim , Römer Julius , Krämer Linus , Malik Bilal , McRae Liam , Kürpick Linus , Palitza Simon , Schuck Carsten , Pernice Wolfram
Published: January 2025

Bragg gratings are crucial components in passive photonic signal processing, with wide-ranging applications including biosensing, pulse compression, photonic computing, and addressing. However, the design of integrated waveguide Bragg gratings (WBGs) for arbitrary wavelengths presents significant challenges, especially when dealing with highly asymmetric layer stacks and large refractive index contrasts. Convenient approximations used for fiber Bragg gratings generally break down in these cases, resulting in nontrivial design challenges. In this work, we introduce a general simulation and design framework for WBGs, which combines coupled mode theory with three-dimensional finite-element method eigenfrequency computations. This approach allows for precise design and optimization of WBGs across a broad range of device layer stacks. The design flow is applicable to further layer stacks across nearly all wavelengths of interest, given that the coupling between the forward and backward propagating mode is dominant.
Photocurrent-induced harmonics in nanostructures
Authors: Babushkin Ihar , Husakou Anton , Shi Liping , Demircan Ayhan , Kovacev Milutin , Morgner Uwe
Published: January 2025

Photocurrent-induced harmonics appear in gases and solids due to tunnel ionization of electrons in strong fields and subsequent acceleration. In contrast to three-step harmonic emission, no return to the parent ions is necessary. Here we show that the same mechanism produces harmonics in metallic nanostructures in strong fields. Furthermore, we demonstrate how strong local field gradient, appearing as a consequence of the field enhancement, affects photocurrent-induced harmonics. This influence can shed light at the state of electron as it appears in the continuum, in particular, to its initial velocity.
Hyperbolic polariton-coupled emission optical microscopy
Authors: Li Shilong , Liu Zhaowei , Lee Yeon Ui
Published: January 2025

A new type of optical microscopy based on hyperbolic polariton-coupled emission (HPCE) is demonstrated. By employing hyperbolic metamaterials as the substrate, we show a nearly 6-fold increase in fluorescence intensity in the HPCE microscope compared to total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) on glass substrates. Moreover, we achieve precise, time-dependent control of the fluorescence intensity by modulating the incidence angle with a galvo scanner. This tunability offers extensive potential for applications in super-resolution fluorescence microscopy and high-sensitivity sensing, enabling real-time fluorescence intensity adjustment.
New Contributions to Iron Gall Ink Inspection Protocols Using Open Source Surface Analysis and Digital Imaging
Authors: Rodríguez-Maciel Ania , Díaz-González Elisa
Published: January 2025

The research addresses the problem of degradation of documents with iron gall inks and the use of Fiji’s ImageJ software to analyse corrosion. This program is considered a valuable tool to complement inspection protocols by allowing quantitative analysis of support losses and halos in inked areas. With the use of the DStretch plug-in effective results are achieved in the recovery of illegible texts, even in very degraded documents. The methodology is applied to sixteenth century documents in the Archivo Histórico Provincial de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, obtaining both qualitative and quantitative data on degradation. The results obtained indicate the need for periodic inspections and document restoration actions. The use of this software complements the information in the inspections to make decisions about the affected documents.
A megújuló energiaforrások használatával kapcsolatos felhasználói magatartás elemzése
Authors: Nagy Szabolcs , Molnár László , Hajdú Noémi
Published: January 2025

A TANULMÁNY CÉLJA
A megújuló energia széleskörű elterjesztéséhez különösen fontos a megújuló energiaforrások felhasználásával kapcsolatos magatartás megértése és modellezése. Tanulmányunk célja, a tervezett viselkedés elméletének (TPB) alkalmazásával a megújuló energia használatára irányuló szándék megértése a magyarországi lakossági felhasználók körében. A vizsgálatunkhoz az eredeti kutatási modell kiterjesztett változatát használtuk, mivel véleményünk szerint, a környezeti aggodalomnak jelentős szerepe van a használati szándék kialakulásában.
ALKALMAZOTT MÓDSZERTAN
Az adatgyűjtéshez 2022 novemberében és decemberében online felmérést végeztünk Magyarországon a 18 évnél idősebb lakosság körében. A 400 válaszadóból álló minta 56 százaléka nő, 44 százaléka pedig férfi, az átlagéletkor 41 év volt. A statisztikai elemzések elvégzéséhez SPSS-t használtunk, a modellben szereplő hipotézisek teszteléséhez – kovariancia-alapú strukturális egyenletmodellezés (CB-SEM) segítségével – pedig AMOS-t.
LEGFONTOSABB EREDMÉNYEK
Az elemzés eredményeként kijelenthetjük, hogy a lakossági felhasználók megújuló energiaforrások használatára vonatkozó szándékát közvetlenül és pozitívan befolyásolják a szubjektív normák és attitűdök, közvetve pedig - a megújuló energiával kapcsolatos attitűdökön keresztül - a környezeti aggodalom. A megújuló energia használatára irányuló viselkedési szándékra a szubjektív normák vannak a legerősebb hatással, viszont az észlelt viselkedéskontroll és a viselkedési szándék között nem volt szignifikáns kapcsolat.
GYAKORLATI JAVASLATOK
A megújuló energia használatát népszerűsítő kampányok esetében a megújuló energiák társadalmi elfogadottságát érdemes hangsúlyozni. Ugyanakkor a kampánynak arra is törekednie kell, hogy felhívja a figyelmet a megújuló energiaforrások környezetre gyakorolt pozitív hatásaira, valamint az energiafüggőség és az energiahiány kezelésére. Ez a kutatás azon egyetemi oktatók és kutatók számára is hasznos, akiket érdekel a TPB alkalmazása a megújuló energia felhasználásával kapcsolatos egyéni döntéshozatal modellezésében. Cikkünk az eredeti TPB-modell kibővítését javasolja, és megerősítette a környezeti aggodalom közvetett szerepét, amelyet a megújuló energiaforrások használatára vonatkozó szándék meghatározásában betölt.
Digitális üzleti modell innovációk értékelési kihívásai a pénzügyi szektorban – FinTech esettanulmányok
Authors: Balogh Virgínia , Katona-Kungler Kinga
Published: January 2025

A TANULMÁNY CÉLJA
A pénzügyi szektor dinamikus átalakulásában a digitális üzleti modell innováciki, különösen a FinTech vállalatok térnyerése kiemelkedő fontosságú. Ezen vállalatok agilitása és újszerű megközelítései a tradicionális pénzügyi szolgáltatások terén felvetik az értékelési módszerek átdolgozásának szükségességét. A tanulmány célja a FinTech vállalatok értékelési folyamatainak átfogó vizsgálata és innovatív értékelési módszerek kialakítása. Ezen módszereknek két fontos tényezőt kell ötvözniük: az üzleti kockázatok és bizonytalanságok figyelembevételét, valamint a tőkeköltségek potenciális torzításának minimalizálását, miközben becslést végez a rugalmassági opcióinak értékére. A hagyományos értékelési keretek mellett egy új, kiegészítő módszertan kidolgozása a cél, mely segít a vállalatok értékét közelebb hozni a valós piaci értékhez.
ALKALMAZOTT MÓDSZERTAN
Jelen kutatás egy kiegészítő, alternatív megközelítést prezentál, amely lehetővé teszi a FinTech vállalatok komplex értékelését. Ezzel a módszertannal a szakemberek képesek lesznek a reálopciós értékelést alkalmazni, ami egy modern, rugalmas vállalatértékelési módszertan. Ennek eredményeképp a kalkulált vállalatérték közelebb fog konvergálni a tőzsdére lépéskor közzétett piaci értékhez.
LEGFONTOSABB EREDMÉNYEK
A hipotézis alapján az új reálopciós értékelési módszertan használatával elért eredmények jelentős előrelépést mutatnak a FinTech vállalatok értékelési folyamatában. Az alkalmazott módszertan két fő aspektusa – a rugalmassági opciók és a piaci környezet változásai – hozzájárulnak a vállalatok értékelésének megbízhatóságához és pontosságához. Az esettanulmányok eredményei egyértelműen mutatják, hogy a hagyományos értékelési módszerek gyakran alulbecslik a FinTech vállalatok értékét. A gyakorlatban is megfigyelhető, hogy az új módszertan alapján kalkulált vállalatértékek közelebb állnak a ténylegesen realizált értékekhez a tőzsdére lépéskor. Ez a megbízhatóbb értékelési módszer hozzájárulhat a befektetői döntések megalapozottságához és a pénzügyi tranzakciók hatékonyabb végrehajtásához.
GYAKORLATI JAVASLATOK
Jelen tanulmány fő ajánlása az, hogy új értékelési módszertanokat kell kidolgozni, amelyek a szektor specifikus jellemzőit és az értékmozgató tényezőket ötvözik. Az ilyen módszertanok segíthetnek csökkenteni a piaci és vállalati értékek közötti szakadékot, lehetővé téve a pontosabb és célorientált vállalatértékelést a FinTech szektorban.
Change management steps among SMEs
Authors: Filep Roland
Published: January 2025

THE AIMS OF THE PAPER
The primary objective of the analysis was to create a detailed, multi-step model through the comparison of change management models found in the literature, encompassing all aspects of the change process during organizational transformation. One of the sub-goals was to test the developed model among SMEs through primary research, which also explored whether respondents considered increasing the frequency of any particular step to be important compared to current practices.
METHODOLOGY
To fulfill these goals, I used a t-test in addition to literature analysis and descriptive statistics. I worked with a sample size of 100 from the leaders of organizations based in Hungary. The sample includes organizations from manufacturing, services, and trade sectors in almost equal proportions.
MOST IMPORTANT RESULTS
The paper creates the broadest model containing the most steps by identifying, comparing and analyzing the steps included in change management models. It has been proven that the Yukl model (which is the broadest model with the largest number of steps available) should be supplemented with a starting and a closing step.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the reviewed literature, the subject of my investigation, i.e., the comparison of the level of steps currently used and considered desirable, has not yet been tested in the literature. This seems to be a promising area of research, as such a study could offer valuable insights into whether leaders are aware of the necessary steps or which actions need greater emphasis to achieve success. These insights could prove particularly beneficial for SME leaders in ensuring effective change management. Raising awareness among SME leaders about the importance of planned change is strongly recommended.
Inca human sacrifice and sacred pilgrimages: spatial analysis of sites on the Chachani and Pichu Pichu volcanoes
Authors: Socha Dagmara , Sieczkowska-Jacyna Dominika
Published: January 2025

The capacocha was one of the most important types of Inca sacrifices. Road stations (tambos) were built for the pilgrims who travelled to mountain peaks with the sacrifices. Spatial analysis of two tambos on the slopes of the Pichu Pichu and Chachani volcanoes in Peru reveals segregation in the sacred landscape.
Unmet Social Needs of Older Adults With Mobility Limitations Following Inpatient Rehabilitation Discharge in Nigeria: A Qualitative Narrative Inquiry Study
Authors: Egbumike Chuwkuenyegom Joesph , Ojembe Blessing , Ezulike Chigozie Juliet , Oyinola Oluwagbemiga , Nwachukwu Ernest , Kalu Michael Ebe
Published: January 2025

Background and purpose:

Approximately, 30% to 60% of older adults experience functional decline following hospitalization, which has implications for their ability to meet social needs after discharge. Exploring the unmet social needs of older adults following discharge is warranted to rethink the elements of hospital discharge in low-resource countries. This study explored the unmet social needs of older adults with mobility limitations following discharge from an inpatient rehabilitation unit in a state hospital in Northern Nigeria.

Methods:

This narrative qualitative study is based on the social constructivism paradigm guided by the 3-Dimensional Narrative Inquiry Space (3-D NIS) methodology. We purposively selected and conducted telephone interviews with 12 older adults, aged 55 years and older, with mobility limitations and discharged from inpatient rehabilitation units. The 3-D NIS guided the thematic analysis of the data. Two author coders independently conducted a thematic analysis of the transcripts. Reflexivity was maintained throughout the research process.

Results and Discussions:

Two related themes [6 sub-themes] emerged: “limitations in social functioning” [leisure activity, religious engagement, and instrumental activities of daily living modifications]; and “accepting the status quo” [Care/support from relatives, friends, and strangers, regrets and aspirations, and adaptation to psychological needs]. Seven tensions from the participants’ transcripts were embedded in emotions, focused on belief, well-being, and spirituality, COVID-19 pandemic impact, desire to be “normal,” limited finance, non-age-friendly homes and community settings, and undetailed rehabilitation discharge planning.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the substantial unmet social needs of older adults with mobility limitations following discharge from inpatient rehabilitation units in Northern Nigeria, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to hospital discharge planning. Future research in low-resource countries should delve deeper into developing comprehensive discharge strategies that integrate social workers and rehabilitation professionals to effectively address these multifaceted social needs.
“No Matter the Age or Medical Complexity, People Benefit From That Intensity of Exercise”: A Mixed-Methods Study Describing Rehabilitation Provider Perceptions of High-Intensity Resistance Training Among Veterans Receiving Post-Acute Care
Authors: Beisheim-Ryan Emma H. , Hinrichs-Kinney Lauren A. , Butera Katie A. , Derlein Danielle L. , Pontiff Mattie , Pisegna Janell , Altic Rebecca , Malone Daniel , Stevens-Lapsley Jennifer E.
Published: January 2025

Background:

In skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), i-STRONGER is a novel, high-intensity resistance training approach that incorporates progressive resistance training to promote greater improvements in patient function compared to usual care. To inform large-scale expansion of i-STRONGER as standard-of-care in SNFs, this mixed-methods study assessed rehabilitation providers’ perceptions of i-STRONGER and purported needs for its adoption.

Methods:

Forty-three rehabilitation providers participated in an 18-week, interactive i-STRONGER training program. Post-training, the validated Perceived Characteristics of Intervention Scale was used to evaluate i-STRONGER relative advantage, compatibility with practice, complexity, potential for reinvention (ie, adaptability), trialability, and risk. Providers reported the top 3 needs for successful i-STRONGER adoption and described i-STRONGER perceptions in training modules and focus groups. A convergent mixed-methods design was used to evaluate and describe clinician perceptions of i-STRONGER.

Results:

i-STRONGER program conceptually aligned with providers’ practice. The patterns and was endorsed as feasible and adaptable as part of patient care; however, initial hesitancies surrounding patients’ physical abilities and motivation were noted as barriers and appeared to reflect negative age-related beliefs and attitudes within SNF cultures. Providers feared patients would be unwilling or unable to engage with i-STRONGER activities due to their age, deconditioning, medical complexity, or expectation that rehabilitation should feel “easier.” As providers began implementing i-STRONGER in real-time, concerns surrounding i-STRONGER’s potential risks lessened as providers observed improvements in patient function and motivation, and patients were described as “embracing” i-STRONGER principles. Patient acceptance and satisfaction, equipment, time, and clear communication among providers were cited as critical needs for i-STRONGER adoption.

Conclusions:

With i-STRONGER, a safe and effective approach for delivering resistance training to older adults in SNF settings, “seeing is believing.” Real-time implementation of i-STRONGER facilitated an evolution of perspective among providers, fueled by observable, positive changes in patient function and affect as well as unexpected patient participation. Findings support i-STRONGER use in SNF settings, provided that specific training strategies showcase older adults with medical complexity participating in progressive resistance training.
Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field and Microwave Therapy on Pain and Physical Function in Older Adults With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Comino-Suárez Natalia , Jiménez-Tamurejo Pilar , Gutiérrez-Herrera María Ainoa , Aceituno-Gómez Javier , Serrano-Muñoz Diego , Avendaño-Coy Juan
Published: January 2025

Background and Purpose:

The objective was to examine the adjuvant effect of active pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) versus microwave (MW) therapy, as well as sham PEMF, in addressing pain and improving functionality for treating knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods:

This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. Individuals diagnosed with KOA were assigned to an intervention combining an exercise program (EX) with active PEMF, MW, or sham PEMF. The main outcomes were pain, reported on a visual analogue scale (VAS), and functionality, assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis (WOMAC) questionnaire, and the Timed Up and Go test (TUG). The outcomes were measured preintervention, immediately postintervention, and at 1 and 4 months of follow-up (FU).

Results:

Sixty individuals (n = 83 knees) were evaluated. Significant between-group differences were found in WOMAC stiffness (rmMANOVA (F(2,77) = 4.33, P = .017, partial η2 = 0.10)). A notable interaction effect between group and time was found for the WOMAC pain score (rmMANOVA (F(2, 77) = 3.14, P = .049, partial η2 = 0.07)). After 4 months, the PEMF + EX group demonstrated superior pain relief compared to the sham PEMF + EX (WOMAC pain “mean difference ± standard error between-groups”: −3.2 ± 1.2, P = .028) and MW + EX (VAS pain: −2.1 ± 0.9, P = .042) groups. PEMF + EX perceived less stiffness than did the sham PEMF + EX in both the pre-FU (WOMAC stiffness: −1.6 ± 0.6, P = .047), 1-month FU (−1.7 ± 0.6, P = .015) and 4-month FU (−1.4 ± 0.6, P = .038), with no changes in the MW + EX group. WOMAC function score showed greater improvement in the PEMF + EX group compared to the MW + EX group at 4-month of FU (−9.0 ± 3.6, P = .039). Only PEMF + EX showed a positive effect on the TUG score at 1-month FU (−1.7 ± 0.5, P = <.001) and 4-month of FU (1.9 ± 0.5, P = .020).

Conclusions:

The application of PEMF could be a useful adjuvant treatment to exercise programs to further decrease pain and improve knee stiffness and function in individuals with KOA in the medium term compared to MW and sham PEMF.
The Small-Strain Stiffness Properties of Clay-Gravel Mixture Subjected to Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Authors: Wang Shuangjiao , Gao Zhiao , Zhang Xianwei
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the resonant column tests were utilized to examine the small-strain stiffness and attenuation of clay-gravel mixture (CGM) under various effective consolidation pressures and freeze-thaw cycles, on the basis of investigating the electrical resistivity variation trend of CGM samples undergoing various freeze-thaw cycles. It is shown that the resistivity of CGM tends to stabilize when the freeze-thaw cycles (N) reach 9, and, thus, the samples after 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 cycles were selected for resonance column testing. The results show that, once N > 9, the decay in dynamic shear modulus demonstrates a weakened association with N and the stiffness degradation effect of freezing-thawing would be weakened and inhibited by high effective consolidation stress. Additionally, a mathematical model was constructed to predict the maximum dynamic shear modulus (Gmax) in the basis of freeze-thaw cycles and effective consolidation stress. Microscopic analysis results suggest that the freeze-thaw effect on CGM lies in the development of soil aggregates and porosity variation within the fine-grained soil. Compared to gravel soils and frozen soil, the cementation of matrix soil and the effect of blocky structure are considered as fundamental reasons for the improved small-strain stiffness and reduced vulnerability to freeze-thaw cycles of CGM.
Experimental Study on the Freeze–Thaw Characteristics of Clays with Different Initial Moisture Contents and Thawing Temperatures
Authors: Han Tianyu , Bai Yao , Zhang Jingtao , Sun Peng , Liu Dong , Xu Zhenyu , Wu Haotian , Sun Yanding
Published: January 2025

To reveal the effects of the thawing temperature and initial moisture content on the freeze–thaw (F-T) characteristics of clays, F-T tests were performed on clays with three initial moisture contents (25 %, 30 %, and 35 %) at two thawing temperatures (25°C and 70°C). Changes in water content of specimens before and after F-T and the phenomena changes at the top surface of specimens after F-T were analyzed. The relationship between the change of water content and the pot-cover effect and surface cracking were discussed. The results showed that stable temperatures at the freezing of the specimens with initial moisture contents of 30 % and 35 % were 14.7 % and 79 %, respectively, both lower than that of the specimen with initial moisture contents of 25 %. With a thawing temperature of 70°C, the time to reach 0°C of the specimen was reduced by 35.9 % to 40.57 %, and the thaw settlement coefficient was reduced by 2.4 % to 4.75 %. When the temperature changes, the deformation of specimens also change and present certain hysteresis during F-T. The upwards net change occurred after F-T; at that time, the total water content inside the specimen decreased, the water content in the upper part of the specimen decreased, and the water content in the lower part of the specimen increased. At the same time, the pot-cover effect occurred on the top surface of the specimen, and the cracking appeared on the top surface and inside the specimen. More moisture migrated upwards to the top of the specimens and the mass of water in the specimen after F-T was less with a thawing temperature of 70°C. Based on the test results, some suggestions are provided for construction of cross passages with AGF and the forced thawing method.
From circuits to lifespan: translating mouse and human timelines with neuroimaging based tractography
Authors: Cottam Nicholas C. , Ofori Kwadwo , Stoll Kevin T. , Bryant Madison , Rogge Jessica R. , Hekmatyar Khan , Sun Jianli , Charvet Christine J.
Published: January 2025

Animal models are commonly used to investigate developmental processes and disease risk, but humans and model systems (e.g., mice) differ substantially in the pace of development and aging. The timeline of human developmental circuits is well known, butit is unclear how such timelines compare to those in mice. We lack age alignments across the lifespan of mice and humans. Here, we build upon our Translating Time resource, which is a tool that equates corresponding ages during development. We collected 1,125 observations from age-related changes in body, bone, dental, and brain processes to equate corresponding ages across humans, mice, and rats to boost power for comparison across humans and mice. We acquired high-resolution diffusion MR scans of mouse brains (n=16) of either sex at sequential stages of postnatal development (postnatal day 3, 4, 12, 21, 60) to track brain circuit maturation (e.g., olfactory association, transcallosal pathways). We found heterogeneity in white matter pathway growth. Corpus callosum growth largely ceases days after birth while the olfactory association pathway grows through P60. We found that a P3-4 mouse equates to a human at roughly GW24, and a P60 mouse equates to a human in teenage years. Therefore, white matter pathway maturation is extended in mice as it is in humans, but there are species-specific adaptations. For example, olfactory-related wiring is protracted in mice, which is linked to their reliance on olfaction. Our findings underscore the importance of translational tools to map common and species-specific biological processes from model systems to humans.

Significance statementMice are essential models of human brain development, but we currently lack precise age alignments across their lifespan. Here, we equate corresponding ages across mice and humans. We utilize high-resolution diffusion mouse brain scans to track the growth of brain white matter pathways, and we use our cross-species age alignments to map the timeline of these growth patterns from mouse to humans. In mice, olfactory association pathway growth continues well into the equivalent of human teenage years. The protracted development of olfactory association pathways in mice aligns with their specialized sense of smell. The generation of translational tools bridges the gap between animal models and human biology while enhancing our understanding of developmental processes generating variation across species.