bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The European Universities initiative: between status hierarchies and inclusion
Authors: Lambrechts Agata A. , Cavallaro Marco , Lepori Benedetto
Published: January 2024

Using a dataset of higher education institutional alliances within the framework of the European University initiative (EUi), we test empirically whether the policy-defined goal of a relative balance between excellence and inclusiveness within the scheme has been achieved. Specifically, we provide a descriptive and analytical account of the diversity of the higher education institutions (HEIs) participating in the EUi, the composition of—as well as the mechanisms behind—the formation of individual alliances. We observe that alliance formation activated the deep sociological mechanisms of hierarchisation, with the alliances largely reproducing the existing hierarchy of European HEIs. Specifically, we argue that the global-level stratification hierarchy cast by rankings influences the participation of individual institutions and—although to a more limited extent—the formation/structure of the alliances. Further, we demonstrate that the EUi has strengthened existing ties since most alliances thus far have built on existing forms of collaboration. However, we also show empirically that some of the distinctive policy design measures, namely the requirement for broad geographical coverage and generically framed rules for participation, as well as opening the initiative to new alliances and encouraging enlargement of the existing ones, have generated opportunities for involvement of the lower-status institutions. This broadened the scope of the EUi beyond the core of top-ranked research universities located in the knowledge production centres of Europe. We suggest that these observations may have important implications for how the intended extension of the EUi may be implemented in the future.
Entrepreneurship performance in the EU: To what extent do economic, social, and government conditions matter?
Authors: Luz Ana Rita Canelas , Bento Paulo , Paschoalotto Marco Antonio Catussi , Pereira Renato
Published: January 2024

Entrepreneurship is widely recognized as a key driver of economic development. At the same time, entrepreneurship is also affected by the economic conditions of the regions where it evolves. In the literature, negative impacts on entrepreneurial performance have been linked to the 2008 financial crisis in the European Union (EU). However, not enough evidence has been provided to support this assertion. To fill this gap, we tested the relationship between economic, social, and government conditions and entrepreneurial performance. We did this for opportunity entrepreneurship (OPP), necessity entrepreneurship (NEC), and total entrepreneurial activity (TEA), for the period 2003–2018, which covers before, during, and after the financial crisis. We considered 21 EU countries and applied descriptive, correlation, and multiple linear regression analyses. Our results demonstrate that (a) there is a positive and significant correlation between NEC and OPP, GDP per capita and OPP, unemployment and TEA, gender ratio and age, gender ratio and education, education and TEA, population and NEC, government indicators and GDP per capita, and government expenditure and NEC, and a negative and significant correlation between GDP per capita and TEA and (b) economic and government conditions had a negative impact on TEA, in contrast to a positive and negative impact on NEC. Social conditions are mixed for TEA and NEC and positive for OPP. The effects on economic conditions were mixed for OPP. Therefore, our study impacts practitioners by demonstrating the factors that do or do not impact entrepreneurial activity in the EU. Additionally, our study expands upon previously analyzed factors that influence entrepreneurial performance, promoting value and originality in the area.
Improving Parent-Child Interaction and Reducing Parental Violent Discipline – a Multi-Informant Multi-Method Pilot Feasibility Study of a School-Based Intervention
Authors: Kabelege Eliud , Kirika Anette , Nkuba Mabula , Hermenau Katharin , Schreiber Alina , Hoeffler Anke , Hecker Tobias
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Globally, many children are exposed to violent discipline in multiple settings. Interventions to prevent violent discipline are therefore highly needed. In the present study, the feasibility of the intervention Interaction Competencies with Children – for Parents (ICC-P), an additional module of a school-based intervention for teachers, was tested. The intervention aims to prevent violent discipline by changing attitudes towards such method and fostering supportive adult-child interaction through non-violent interaction skills.

Methods

In total, 164 parents (Mage= 39.55, range = 24 70, 72.3% female) from four public secondary schools in Tanzania participated in a four-day training conducted by six trainers (Mage= 44.67, range = 40–47, 50% female). Using a One-Group Pre-Post design, we measured the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the intervention qualitatively and quantitatively. Parents were assessed via self-administered questionnaires before and six weeks after the intervention. Trainers rated the implementation of every workshop session.

Results

Based on descriptive statistics and Classical Content Analysis, implementing trainers and participants rated ICC-P as feasible. Participants indicated a high need for such interventions and showed high acceptance. They were able to integrate core aspects of the intervention in their daily interactions with children. Using t-tests, ICC-P proved to be preliminarily effective; parents reported applying less violent discipline and holding more critical attitudes about such measures after the intervention.

Conclusion

ICC-P is feasible intervention that showed initial signs of effectiveness. We recommend combining the parents’ training module with the teachers’ module to prevent violence in multiple settings.
Does the presentation of true costs at the point of purchase nudge consumers toward sustainable product options?
Authors: Wilken Robert , Schmitt Julien , Dost Florian , Bürgin David
Published: January 2024

Do true cost campaigns (TCCs)—which display prices at the point of purchase that include social and environmental negative externalities—nudge consumers toward more expensive sustainable products? From a theoretical point of view, the answer is promising: Communicating true costs means introducing external reference prices that provide a benchmark for consumers to assess price acceptability. Showing true costs triggers a general reference to the price of sustainability, and the higher price of sustainable products becomes at least partially explained by their lower “hidden costs” (i.e., costs to compensate for all environmental and social impacts). In two empirical studies, we demonstrate that for TCCs to be effective, the hidden costs for the sustainable products must be lower than those for the conventional alternatives. Interestingly, under this condition, TCCs have an effect in markets characterized by a larger (study 1) and a smaller (study 2) green gap. In both studies, we find that increased perceived price fairness explains the effect of TCCs, as measured by the relative preference for the sustainable compared to the conventional product. In addition, we see that the price difference between the two products plays a significant role in forming this preference judgment, independent of other factors included in the model and especially independent of TCC.
The duty of care and the right to be cared for: is there a duty to treat the unvaccinated?
Authors: Lederman Zohar , Corcos Shalom
Published: January 2024

Vaccine hesitancy or refusal has been one of the major obstacles to herd immunity against Covid-19 in high-income countries and one of the causes for the emergence of variants. The refusal of people who are eligible for vaccination to receive vaccination creates an ethical dilemma between the duty of healthcare professionals (HCPs) to care for patients and their right to be taken care of. This paper argues for an extended social contract between patients and society wherein vaccination against Covid-19 is conceived as essential for the protection of the right of healthcare providers to be taken care of. Thus, a duty of care is only valid when those who can receive vaccination actually receive it. Whenever that is not the case, the continuing functioning of HCPs can only be perceived as supererogatory and not obligatory.
The Political Effects of Economic Inequality: Evidence from Hong Kong
Authors: Yang Shen , Wu Alfred M.
Published: January 2024

Economic inequality can have significant political-social impacts, leading to social unrest and other negative consequences. With a high level of economic inequality and a remarkably contentious society, Hong Kong offers an intriguing case for investigating the political consequence of economic inequality. Based on an original random sampling survey in 2017, this study examines the political effects of perceived economic inequality in Hong Kong from three perspectives, namely, its impacts on citizens’ preferences for redistribution, political autonomy, and social protests. This study yields several important findings. Citizens’ perceived economic inequality is positively correlated with support for government redistribution and support for political autonomy. However, perceived economic inequality is not associated with citizens’ propensity to join social protests. We find that political values and citizens’ identities influence their demand for political autonomy and propensity to join protests. Our study thus sheds fresh light on the effect of economic inequality on a developed economy.
The Causal Relationship Between Volunteering and Social Cohesion: A Large Scale Analysis of Secondary Longitudinal Data
Authors: Davies Ben , Abrams Dominic , Horsham Zoe , Lalot Fanny
Published: January 2024

It is often taken for granted that social cohesion and volunteering are inextricably related. Previous research suggests both that social cohesion creates a conducive environment for volunteering to emerge and that volunteering itself facilitates feelings of social cohesion. Despite this, much of the existing evidence on this relationship is limited to cross-sectional research that precludes any assessment of potential causality. In this paper we present a secondary analysis of two large scale and longitudinal social surveys in the UK: the Understanding Society Household Longitudinal Study and the Beyond Us and Them project. Using data from these surveys we estimate a cross-lagged longitudinal model to assess the causal relationships between social cohesion and volunteering over time. Across both data sources, involving different time intervals, we find significant cross-lagged bi-directional relationships between social cohesion and volunteering. These findings provide much needed empirical support for the proposition that social cohesion and volunteering are causally related over periods of both months and years. Implications for theory and policy are discussed.
Development and validation of an oropharyngeal obstruction evaluation score
Authors: Peng Bengang , Chen Mo , Yang Jing , Lai Youqing , Zhang Ning
Published: January 2024

Objective

To identify standard clinical parameters that can predict the presence and severity of obstructive sleep apnea.

Subjects and methods

Adult patients with habitual snoring completed comprehensive polysomnography and anthropometric measurements, including sex, age, body mass index (BMI), neck circumference, tonsil size grading, modified Mallampati score, and nasofibroscopy-assisted Muller’s maneuver (NMM). Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to screen the significant variables. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was then conducted to identify the independent variables. receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to quantify the predictability of the formed oropharyngeal obstruction scoring system.

Results

A total of 163 adults (127 men) were enrolled in the study. Tonsil size grading, modified Mallampati score, and NMM grading maneuver were predictive of  OSA and incorporated into a scoring system. This score ranged between 3 and 12, and threshold values of ≥ 8 and ≥ 9 seemed to be appropriate to identify patients at an increased risk of at least mild (AHI ≥ 5/h; AUROC = 0.935, 95%CI = 0.900–0.970, P < 0.001) and severe OSA (AHI ≥ 30/h; AUROC = 0.939, 95%CI = 0.899–0.969, P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

This study established an evaluation score for assessing the degree of oropharhygeal obstruction. The findings of the study suggest that the score may help identify patients at risk of oropharyngeal-related OSA who should have a full sleep evaluation.
Mandibular advancement devices decrease systolic pressure during the day and night in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Belanche Monterde Alba , Zubizarreta-Macho Álvaro , Lobo Galindo Ana Belén , Albaladejo Martínez Alberto , Montiel-Company José María
Published: January 2024

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze whether or not mandibular advancement devices (MADs) produce changes in blood pressure in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in relation to use time and if the device is used at night or day.

Materials and method

A systematic review of the literature and meta-analysis was carried out in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. In the bibliographic search, a total of four databases were consulted: PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane. Of the 622 articles initially revealed, 160 duplicates were eliminated. After applying the selection criteria, 17 articles were included for the qualitative analysis and 4 for the meta-analysis. The studies were combined using a random effects model with the inverse method of variance, determining the mean differences in systolic and diastolic pressure before and after treatment using the MAD splint as the effect size. Day/night circadian effect and treatment time were analyzed using meta-regression with a mixed-effects model.

Results

MAD treatment was not found to affect diastolic pressure. By combining the four studies with the control group in a meta-analysis (I2 = 75%; z =  − 0.15; p-value = 0.882), the mean difference in diastolic pressure between the MAD group and the control group was estimated at − 0.06 (− 0.86; 0.74). The meta-regression also showed no significant effect of day/night (p = 0.560) or treatment time (p = 0.854) on diastolic pressure. When combining the four studies with the control group (I2 = 84%%; z =  − 1.47; p-value = 0.142), a non-significant mean difference in systolic pressure between the MAD group and the control group of − 0.99 (− 2.31; 0.33) was estimated in the meta-analysis. However, when assessing the effect of day/night or treatment time on systolic blood pressure using a meta-regression, the latter showed significant covariates that reduce systolic blood pressure values in the model at night (p < 0.001) and in relation to treatment time (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Only systolic pressure appears to be affected by the use of the MAD in patients with OSA, and this decrease in systolic pressure is greater at night and when treatment time is longer.
Edge preparation methods for cutting tools: a review
Authors: Zhou Yu , Fang Wei , Shao Lanying , Dai Yanfei , Wang Jiahuan , Wang Xu , Yuan Julong , Guo Weigang , Lyu Binghai
Published: January 2024

Edge preparation can remove cutting edge defects, such as burrs, chippings, and grinding marks, generated in the grinding process and improve the cutting performance and service life of tools. Various edge preparation methods have been proposed for different tool matrix materials, geometries, and application requirements. This study presents a scientific and systematic review of the development of tool edge preparation technology and provides ideas for its future development. First, typical edge characterization methods, which associate the microgeometric characteristics of the cutting edge with cutting performance, are briefly introduced. Then, edge preparation methods for cutting tools, in which materials at the cutting edge area are removed to decrease defects and obtain a suitable microgeometry of the cutting edge for machining, are discussed. New edge preparation methods are explored on the basis of existing processing technologies, and the principles, advantages, and limitations of these methods are systematically summarized and analyzed. Edge preparation methods are classified into two categories: mechanical processing methods and nontraditional processing methods. These methods are compared from the aspects of edge consistency, surface quality, efficiency, processing difficulty, machining cost, and general availability. In this manner, a more intuitive understanding of the characteristics can be gained. Finally, the future development direction of tool edge preparation technology is prospected.
Mental Health Among Men Who Have Sex with Men Under the Influence of Psychoactive Substances: a Systematic Review
Authors: Brunt Tibor Markus , Graf Niels , Deimel Daniel , Schecke Henrike , van Amsterdam Jan , Knoops Leon , van den Brink Wim
Published: January 2024

Sex under the influence of psychoactive substances (SUIPS) has gained much attention in the press and scientific literature over the last years, especially among men who have sex with men (MSM). Concerns have thus far been expressed in relation to short-term physical health risks, like contracting bloodborne diseases, like viruses. However, much less is known about long-term mental health consequences of SUIPS, like depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders (SUD). Therefore, we systematically reviewed literature for evidence on mental health complications of SUIPS in MSM. SUIPS was associated with a lower general mental health status, and higher rates of depression, anxiety disorders and suicide ideation in 15 studies, and higher rates of SUD were found among MSM practicing SUIPS in four studies. Motives of SUIPS were increasing sexual performance, fear of rejection, anxiety, and low self-esteem among others. Furthermore, long-term mental health risks, as associated with some of the most frequently reported psychoactive substances in the context of SUIPS, include psychosis and substance dependence. Therefore, the present findings indicate that SUIPS is associated with mental disorders and that they are probably closely intertwined with motives for SUIPS and the long-term effects of using psychoactive substances. This underlines the need to address the presence of mental disorders in people practicing SUIPS, alongside the physical risks.
Improved identification of tumors in 18F-FDG-PET examination by normalizing the standard uptake in the liver based on blood test data
Authors: Alam Md Ashraful , Hanaoka Shouhei , Nomura Yukihiro , Kikuchi Tomohiro , Nakao Takahiro , Takenaga Tomomi , Hayashi Naoto , Yoshikawa Takeharu , Abe Osamu
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Standardized uptake values (SUVs) derived from18F-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography are a crucial parameter for identifying tumors or abnormalities in an organ. Moreover, exploring ways to improve the identification of tumors or abnormalities using a statistical measurement tool is important in clinical research. Therefore, we developed a fully automatic method to create a personally normalized Z-score map of the liver SUV.

Methods

The normalized Z-score map for each patient was created using the SUV mean and standard deviation estimated from blood-test-derived variables, such as alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, as well as other demographic information. This was performed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)-based estimation formula. We also used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) to analyze the results of people with and without hepatic tumors and compared them to the ROC curve of normal SUV.

Results

A total of 7757 people were selected for this study. Of these, 7744 were healthy, while 13 had abnormalities. The area under the ROC curve results indicated that the anomaly detection approach (0.91) outperformed only the maximum SUV (0.89). To build the LASSO regression, sets of covariates, including sex, weight, body mass index, blood glucose level, triglyceride, total cholesterol, γ-glutamyl transpeptidase, total protein, creatinine, insulin, albumin, and cholinesterase, were used to determine the SUV mean, whereas weight was used to determine the SUV standard deviation.

Conclusion

The Z-score normalizes the mean and standard deviation. It is effective in ROC curve analysis and increases the clarity of the abnormality. This normalization is a key technique for effective measurement of maximum glucose consumption by tumors in the liver.
Sport nach schaftfreier Schulterprothese
Authors: Russo Maximilian , Krifter Rolf Michael , Rosso Claudio
Published: January 2024

Hintergrund

Das Verfahren der schaftfreien anatomischen oder inversen Schulterprothese ist für die Behandlung einer Vielzahl von Schultererkrankungen vorgesehen, darunter primäre, zentrierte oder sekundäre Omarthrosen, irreparable Rotatorenmanschettenläsionen und Rotatorenmanschetten-defiziente Omarthrosen („Cuff-Arthropathien“) und chronische Instabilitäten. Die schaftfreie Schulterprothese bietet gegenüber der herkömmlichen schaftgeführten Schulterprothese mehrere theoretische Vorteile, darunter kürzere Operationsdauer, knochensparende Technik und weniger perioperative Komplikationen wie Humerusschaftfrakturen oder „stress shielding“. Durch den Knochenerhalt und den natürlichen Kraftabbau bei unversehrter Elastizität der Epi- und Diaphyse zeigen sich langfristige osteologische Vorteile.

Methoden

Dieser Beitrag befasst sich anhand der aktuellen Literatur mit den Möglichkeiten und Auswirkungen der Rückkehr zum Sport nach schaftfreier anatomischer und inverser Schulterprothetik.

Ergebnisse

Die Studienlage zeigt bei deutlich gestiegener Anzahl von Schulterimplantationen eine klare Tendenz zu verbesserter Beweglichkeit sowie eine signifikante Verbesserung des Constant-Murley-Scores und der Sportfähigkeit sowohl von anatomischen als auch inversen Prothesen. Das präoperative Aktivitätsniveau, die Konfiguration und Art der Prothese spielen aber eine wichtige Rolle für die Rückkehr zum Sport. Zudem steigt auch der Anspruch von Patienten nach Versorgung mit inversen Schulterprothesen sportlich aktiv zu sein.

Schlussfolgerung

Diese Übersichtsarbeit befasst sich mit der aktuellen Literatur, den Möglichkeiten und Auswirkungen der Rückkehr zum Sport von schaftfreien anatomischen und inversen Schulterprothesen und weist auf die markanten Unterschiede zwischen anatomischer und inverser Versorgung hin.
Using the 5-Item Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS-5) to Screen for Non-adherence to Vitamin and Mineral Supplementation After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Spetz Kristina , Olbers Torsten , Östbring Malin , Moon Zoe , Horne Rob , Andersson Ellen
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Poor adherence to recommended vitamin and mineral supplementation after bariatric surgery is common and challenging for healthcare professionals to identify. There are several questionnaires for self-reporting of adherence to chronic medication, but none has so far been evaluated for assessment of adherence to vitamin and mineral supplementation after bariatric surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of the 5-item Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS-5) in measuring adherence to vitamin and mineral supplementation post bariatric surgery (gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy).

Method

The psychometric properties of MARS-5 for vitamin and mineral supplementation were validated in two cohorts: one at 1 year post bariatric surgery (n = 120) and the other at 2 years post-surgery (n = 211). MARS-5 was compared to pharmacy refill data for vitamin B12 and combined calcium/vitamin D as reference.

Results

Correlation analyses demonstrated that the MARS-5 had acceptable validity compared to objectively measured adherence rates from pharmacy refill data (calculated as continuous, multiple-interval measures of medication availability/gaps-coefficient ranged from 0.49 to 0.54). Internal reliability (Cronbach’s α) was high: 0.81 and 0.95, respectively. There was a clear ceiling effect where one out of three had a maximum score on MARS-5.

Conclusion

MARS-5 demonstrated acceptable psychometric properties for assessment of adherence to vitamin and mineral supplementation post bariatric surgery.

Graphical Abstract
Determination of prothipendyl by difference spectrophotometric method based on the absorption of its sulfoxide
Authors: Mozgova Olena , Blazheyevskiy Mykola , Kryskiw Liubomyr , Kucher Tetyana , Shliusar Oksana , Moroz Valeriy
Published: January 2024

A new difference spectrophotometric method for the determination of prothipendyl hydrochloride in commercial pharmaceutical preparations has been proposed. The method includes oxidation of an aliquot of the drug solution with potassium caroate to form the corresponding sulfoxide (ε = (5.83 ± 0.07) × 103 L/mol cm) and subsequent measurement of the absorbance at 340 nm compared to that of the unoxidized drug solution of equal concentration. The graph of Beer’s law for prothipendyl hydrochloride shows that the ΔA values measured at the corresponding wavelength are proportional to the concentration of the drug in the concentration range of 1.5–70 µg/mL. The characteristics of the curve calibration curve of the linear regression equation were as follows: ΔA = (69.24 ± 1.78) × 10–4C (where C in μg/mL). A new spectrophotometric technique has been developed and the possibility of quantitative determination of prothipendyl hydrochloride monohydrate in Dominal® tablets of 40 mg has been demonstrated. RSD ≤ 1.3%; (│δ│ < tα × RSD/$$\sqrt{n}$$

n

), where µ is quantification data given in the Certificate of Quality, δ = (x̅-µ) 100%/µ. The resulting difference in absorption does not depend on the presence of excipients and possible API oxidation products in the composition.
Robust mean-to-CVaR optimization under ambiguity in distributions means and covariance
Authors: Lotfi Somayyeh , Zenios Stavros A.
Published: January 2024

We develop a robust mean-to-CVaR portfolio optimization model under interval ambiguity in returns means and covariance. The robust model satisfies second-order stochastic dominance consistency and is formulated as a semi-definite cone program. We use two controlled experiments to document the sensitivity of the optimal allocations to the ambiguity when asset correlation varies, and to the ambiguity intervals. We find that means ambiguity has a higher impact than covariance ambiguity. We apply the model to US equities data to corroborate works showing that ambiguity in mean returns induces a home bias; it can explain the puzzle in a two-country setting but not with three countries. We further establish that covariance ambiguity also induces bias, but with lower impact that can not explain the puzzle. Our results suggest what is needed for the ambiguity channel to provide a full explanation of the puzzle. The findings are robust to alternative model specifications and outliers.
Single-Cell Transcriptome Reveals Cell Type–Specific Molecular Pathology in a 2VO Cerebral Ischemic Mouse Model
Authors: Zhang Qian , Xu Zhong , Guo Jian-Feng , Shen Shang-Hang
Published: January 2024

Post-ischemia memory impairment is a major sequela in cerebral ischemia patients. However, cell type–specific molecular pathology in the hippocampus after ischemia is poorly understood. In this study, we adopted a mouse two-vessel occlusion ischemia model (2VO model) to mimic cerebral ischemia–induced memory impairment and investigated the single-cell transcriptome in the hippocampi in 2VO mice. A total of 27,069 cells were corresponding 14 cell types with neuronal, glial, and vascular lineages. We next analyzed cell-specific gene alterations in 2VO mice and the function of these cell-specific genes. Differential expression analysis identified cell type–specific genes with altered expression in neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes in 2VO mice. Notably, four subtypes of oligodendrocyte precursor cells with distinct differentiation pathways were suggested. Taken together, this is the first single-cell transcriptome analysis of gene expression in a 2VO model. Furthermore, we suggested new types of oligodendrocyte precursor cells with angiogenesis and neuroprotective potential, which might offer opportunities to identify new avenues of research and novel targets for ischemia treatment.
Comparison of Spectroscopic Techniques Using the Adulteration of Pumpkin Seed Oil as Example
Authors: Lörchner Carolin , Fauhl-Hassek Carsten , Glomb Marcus A. , Baeten Vincent , Fernández Pierna Juan A. , Esslinger Susanne
Published: January 2024

The aim of the present study was to compare different spectroscopic techniques using the example of adulteration of pumpkin seed oil with rapeseed oil in combination with a multivariate regression method. A total of 124 pure seed oils and 96 adulterated samples (adulteration levels from 0.5 to 90.0% w/w) were analyzed using mid infrared, Raman, and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. To build quantification models, partial least squares regression (PLS-R) was used. The regression performance parameters, latent variables, and the detection limits (in terms of root mean square error of PLS prediction) calculated when applying the different spectroscopic approaches were compared. For the studied example (pumpkin seed oil adulterated with refined rapeseed oil), the lowest detection limit (3.4% w/w) was obtained for 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. For the mid infrared and Raman spectroscopy, detection limits of 4.8% w/w and 9.2% w/w, respectively, were obtained, which might be used as screening methods.
Dynamic Changes of the Infralimbic Cortex and Its Regulation of the Prelimbic Cortex in Rats with Chronic Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Ma Longyu , Yue Lupeng , Liu Shuting , Zhang Yu , Zhang Meng , Cui Shuang , Liu Feng-Yu , Yi Ming , Wan You
Published: January 2024

The prelimbic cortex (PL) is actively engaged in pain modulation. The infralimbic cortex (IL) has been reported to regulate the PL. However, how this regulation affects pain remains unclear. In the present study, we recorded temporary hyper-activity of PL pyramidal neurons responding to nociceptive stimuli, but a temporary hypo-function of the IL by in vivo electrophysiological recording in rats with peripheral inflammation. Manipulation of the PL or IL had opposite effects on thermal hyperalgesia. Furthermore, the functional connectivity and chemogenetic regulation between the subregions indicated an inhibitory influence of the IL on the PL. Activation of the pathway from the IL to the PL alleviated thermal hyperalgesia, whereas its inhibition exacerbated chronic pain. Overall, our results suggest a new mechanism underlying the role of the medial prefrontal cortex in chronic pain: hypo-function of the IL leads to hyperactivity of the PL, which regulates thermal hyperalgesia, and thus contributes to the chronicity of pain.
Properties of fibre-reinforced self-compacting concrete subjected to prolonged mixing: an experimental and fuzzy logic investigation
Authors: Ghodousian Oveys , Garcia Reyes , Ghodousian Amin , Mohammad Nezhad Ayandeh Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2024

This article investigates the effect of prolonged mixing on the rheological properties and compressive strength of fibre-reinforced self-compacting concretes (FRSCCs). Twenty FRSCC mixes with five cementitious material contents (300, 350, 400, 450 and 500 kg/m3) and three types of fibres and dosages (polypropylene at 0.1%, steel at 1.0%, or synthetic at 1.0%) were first produced. The mixes were then subjected to four mixing intervals of 20 min each (total mixing time = 80 min). The rheological properties of the fresh FRSCC mixes were examined, and the corresponding compressive strength of the hardened FRSCCs was subsequently obtained. Overall, the results from slump flow, T50, V-funnel and L-box tests on fresh mixes, as well as the 28-day compressive strength on the hardened FRSCCs, were in line with previous results reported in the literature. The results show that all mixes lost their self-compacting properties after 80 min of mixing. It was also found that mixes with high cementitious material contents (500 kg/m3) and highest polypropylene fibre dosage were most affected by prolonged mixing, with average losses of 30% and 35% in rheological properties and compressive strength, respectively. Based on the test results, this study proposes a novel fuzzy logic approach to predict the slump loss and at 28-day compressive strength loss of FRSCCs subjected to prolonged mixing. This article contributes towards a better understanding of FRSCCs after prolonged mixing, which can help make informed decisions about their use in new and repaired concrete structures.
Green solutions and new technologies for sustainable management of fungus and oomycete diseases in the citrus fruit supply chain
Authors: Rovetto Ermes Ivan , La Spada Federico , Aloi Francesco , Riolo Mario , Pane Antonella , Garbelotto Matteo , Cacciola Santa Olga
Published: January 2024

This review deals with major diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes in the citrus supply chain, including post-harvest fruit diseases, and summarizes the strategies and techniques that may be adopted to prevent the damages and losses they cause. Its scope is to highlight the contribute that smart technologies provide towards new solutions for sustainable and safe management strategies of these diseases. Particular attention is given to the application of biopesticides, natural substances, resistance inducers and biostimulants to prevent fruit rots. The review focuses also on mycotoxins and mycotoxigenic fungi that contaminate fresh fruit and food products derived from citrus fruit, an aspect that has been little investigated and regulated so far. An additional relevant aspect addressed by the review is the early detection and routine diagnosis of fungal and oomycete pathogens that threat the international trade and long-distance shipment of citrus fruit, with a particular emphasis on quarantine pathogens. In this respect, the opportunities offered by new practical, rapid, sensitive and robust molecular diagnostic methods are briefly discussed.
Improved properties and salt rejection of polysulfone membrane by incorporation of hydrophilic cobalt-doped ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Ba-Abbad Muneer M. , Mahmud Nafis , Benamor Abdelbaki , Mahmoudi Ebrahim , Takriff Mohd S. , Mohammad Abdul Wahab
Published: January 2024

In this study, the nanoparticles (NPs) of ZnO and Co2+ ions doped ZnO (doped ZnO) were incorporated into a matrix of polysulfone (PSf) membranes to enhance their surface properties prepared using a simple wet phase inversion technique. The hybrid PSf membranes were fabricated with 0.5 wt. % of ZnO and doped ZnO NPs. These membranes were characterized using XRD, TGA, FESEM-EDX, and salt rejection performance. The hydrophilicity of PSf membranes was improved by adding of ZnO and doped ZnO NPs which showed a decrease in contact angle values from 82° to 62° with an increased flux with water. Among the prepared membranes, doped ZnO NPs showed the highest salt rejection for both sodium chloride (NaCl) and sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) compared to pure PSf and PSf with ZnO NPs which confirm the improvement contact angle and water permeability. Overall, the results of this study showed that embedding a small amount of Co2+ ions doped ZnO NPs with PSf has significant potential to be applied in industrial-scale membrane applications.
The impact of brivaracetam on cognitive processes and anxiety in various experimental models
Authors: Zwierzyńska Ewa , Pietrzak Bogusława
Published: January 2024

Background

Memory deficits and anxiety symptoms are undesirable effects that occur in epilepsy patients. They may be associated with the pathophysiology of the disease but also with anticonvulsant therapy. Brivaracetam (BRV) is one of the newest antiseizure drugs. It acts as a ligand for synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A), which may play a significant role in cognitive processes. Although BRV has a favorable safety profile, its central side effects remain unclear. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of BRV on various types of memory and anxiety in rats.

Methods

BRV was given to adult male Wistar rats (n = 80) via gastric tube as a single dose (6 mg/kg or 20 mg/kg) or chronically (6 mg/kg). The effect of the drug on spatial memory was evaluated in the Morris water maze (MWM), fear-learning by passive avoidance (PA), and recognition memory with novel object recognition (NOR). The elevated plus maze (EPM) was used to assess anxiety-like behaviors.

Results

The impact of BRV on memory is dose-dependent and mainly high doses may alter retrieval memory and fear-learning. Sub-chronic administration also impaired retrieval and spatial memory in animals. Moreover, chronic BRV may increase anxiety levels in rats but did not affect recognition memory.

Conclusions

BRV may cause transient memory deficits as well as anxiety disturbances. However, the results are varied and depend on the type of memory, used dose, and duration of administration.
Foam control in biotechnological processes—challenges and opportunities
Authors: Tiso Till , Demling Philipp , Karmainski Tobias , Oraby Amira , Eiken Jens , Liu Luo , Bongartz Patrick , Wessling Matthias , Desmond Peter , Schmitz Simone , Weiser Sophie , Emde Frank , Czech Hannah , Merz Juliane , Zibek Susanne , Blank Lars M. , Regestein Lars
Published: January 2024

Foam formation is a massive challenge in submerged aerated bioprocesses, e.g., in beer fermentation. While the use of antifoam may easily overcome foaming at laboratory scale, it is often an unattractive solution since the challenge remains in future upscaling, as reduced mass transfer and extra steps in product purification and analytics result in increased costs. Interestingly, the number of studies tackling this challenge is relatively low, although literature suggests a range of alternatives, from avoiding foaming to means of controlling or even using foaming as an in situ product removal. Here we give an overview of the topic in five subsections. (1) We argue that a sound understanding of the molecular origin of foaming can facilitate solutions for overcoming the challenge while introducing some long-known challenges (i.e., in beer fermentation). We then review in (2) the apparent avoidance of foam formation before we in (3) summarize possibilities to reduce and control foam after its formation. Subsequently, in (4), we discuss possible solutions that take advantage of foam formation, for example, via foam fractionation for in situ product removal. Finally, in (5), we provide an overview of microbial strain engineering approaches to cope with some aspects of foaming in fermentations. With this review, we would like to sensitize and inform the interested reader while offering an overview of the current literature for the expert, particularly with regard to the foam special issue in Discover Chemical Engineering.
Effect of papain enzyme surface modification on hydrophilic and comfort properties of polyester/cotton blend fabric
Authors: Tegegne Worku , Haile Adane
Published: January 2024

In this study, the authors used an enzyme called papain sourced from the Carica Papaya to improve the comfort and water-absorbing properties of a fabric made from a blend of polyester and cotton (65/35). The experiment was designed using the Box Behnken method to determine the most important variable and the best levels of parameters. The focus was on testing the wettability, moisture regain, and surface characteristics of the material. The results showed that all the comfort properties of the fabric improved after treatment with papain enzyme. After testing different parameters, the best conditions for treating the fabric with papain enzyme were determined to be a temperature of 30 °C, a papain concentration of 14%, and a treatment time of 50 min. Under these optimized conditions, the moisture regain and wettability of the polyester/cotton blend fabric treated with papain enzyme improved to 1.9 ± 0.02% and 6 cm capillary rise (measured with a 2-s drop test and 2-s sinking time) within just 3 min of wicking time. The Polyester/cotton blend fabrics treated with papain enzyme exhibited several noteworthy characteristics, including a significantly reduced susceptibility to fabric pilling (4–5), a limited capacity to attract oily impurities, and a high oil-soil-release capability with a stain removal index of 85%. Additionally, the fabrics showed a one-order-of-magnitude decrease in surface resistivity under normal conditions, with a half-life decay time of 513 s. Observations of the treated fabrics revealed the presence of cracks, grooves, nanostructures, and a high degree of roughness on the surfaces that were treated with papain enzyme. To further evaluate the effects of the lipase enzyme treatment on the fabric properties, several tests were conducted, including Fourier Trasform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Moisture Regain, Tensile Strength, Stain Repellency, pilling resistance, and Anti-static charge generation.
Correlation of lung immune prognostic index with the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in Chinese patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhi Xiaoyu , Zhang Zhibo , Li Weiwei , Dong Zhouhuan , Wu Xiaodong , Ge Xiangwei , Zhai Jinzhao , Lu Di , Yan Xiang , Wang Jinliang
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) improves the prognoses of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) but is ineffective in some patients. The lung immune prognostic index (LIPI) can predict response to ICIs treatment in European patients with NSCLC. This study assessed the correlation of LIPI score with outcomes in Chinese patients with advanced NSCLC receiving ICIs.

Methods

A total of 305 Chinese patients with advanced NSCLC who received ICIs were ultimately included. LIPI score was determined by a high derived neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (dNLR > 3) and elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and classified as “good” (0), “intermediate” (1), or “poor” (2). The effects of baseline LIPI on overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), disease control rate (DCR), and overall response rate (ORR) were analyzed.

Results

The good LIPI group had better OS (26.0 months, P < 0.0001) and PFS (10.5 months, P < 0.0001) than the other two groups, but the three groups had similar ORR (P = 0.222). DCR was 79%, 65%, and 47% in the good, intermediate, and poor LIPI groups, respectively (P = 0.002). Multivariate analysis indicated that an intermediate LIPI score (HR = 1.56, P = 0.005) and a poor LIPI score (HR = 2.68, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of poor OS. The findings were similar for PFS. DCR had a significant negative correlation with the LIPI score (P = 0.045).

Conclusion

Our results confirmed that a good LIPI score was related to prolonged survival and better response to ICIs in Chinese patients with advanced NSCLC. The LIPI score might be useful for selecting patients most likely to benefit from ICIs treatment.
Resistance and Liberation
Authors: Porch Douglas
Published: January 2024

In Resistance and Liberation, Douglas Porch continues his epic history of France at war. Emerging from the debâcle of 1940, France faced the quandary of how to rebuild military power, protect the empire, and resuscitate its global influence. While Charles de Gaulle rejected the armistice and launched his offshore crusade to reclaim French honor within the Allied camp, defeatists at Vichy embraced cooperation with the victorious Axis. The book charts the emerging dynamics of la France libre and the Alliance, Vichy collaboration, and the swelling resistance to the Axis occupation. From the campaigns in Tunisia and Italy to Liberation, Douglas Porch traces how de Gaulle sought to forge a French army and prevent civil war. He captures the experiences of ordinary French men and women caught up in war and defeat, the choices they made, the trials they endured, and how this has shaped France's memory of those traumatic years.
Exploring the impact of design tool usage on design for additive manufacturing processes and outcomes
Authors: Budinoff Hannah D. , McMains Sara , Shonkwiler Sara
Published: January 2024

Improving designers’ ability to identify manufacturing constraints during design can help reduce the time and cost involved in the development of new products. Different design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) tools exist, but the design outcomes produced using such tools are often evaluated without comparison to existing tools. This study addresses the research gap by directly comparing design performance using two design support tools: a worksheet listing DfAM principles and a manufacturability analysis software tool that analyzes compliance with the same principles. In a randomized-controlled study, 49 nonexpert designers completed a design task to improve the manufacturability of a 3D-printed part using either the software tool or the worksheet tool. In this study, design outcome data (creativity and manufacturability) and design process data (task load and time taken) were measured. We identified statistically significant differences in the number of manufacturability violations in the software and worksheet groups and the creativity of the designs with novel build orientations. Results demonstrated limitations associated with lists of principles and highlighted the potential of software in promoting creativity by encouraging the exploration of alternative build orientations. This study provides support for using software to help designers, particularly nonexpert designers who rely on trial and error during design, evaluate the manufacturability of their designs more effectively, thereby promoting concurrent engineering design practices.
Tropical Fock–Goncharov coordinates for -webs on surfaces I: construction
Authors: Douglas Daniel C. , Sun Zhe
Published: January 2024

For a finite-type surface

$\mathfrak {S}$

, we study a preferred basis for the commutative algebra

$\mathbb {C}[\mathscr {R}_{\mathrm {SL}_3(\mathbb {C})}(\mathfrak {S})]$

of regular functions on the

$\mathrm {SL}_3(\mathbb {C})$

-character variety, introduced by Sikora–Westbury. These basis elements come from the trace functions associated to certain trivalent graphs embedded in the surface

$\mathfrak {S}$

. We show that this basis can be naturally indexed by nonnegative integer coordinates, defined by Knutson–Tao rhombus inequalities and modulo 3 congruence conditions. These coordinates are related, by the geometric theory of Fock and Goncharov, to the tropical points at infinity of the dual version of the character variety.