bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the porous structure on the hygrothermal vibration analysis of functional graded nanoplates using nonlocal high-order continuum plate model
Authors: Yıldırım E. , Esen I.
Published: June 2024

This study delves into the thermomechanical vibration behavior of functionally graded porous nanoplates under extreme thermal temperature and humidity conditions. The equation of motion of the nanoplate was derived using advanced theories in elasticity and deformation. The nanoplate consists of metal (SUS304) on the bottom surface and ceramic (Ni3S4) on the top surface, with the material distribution changing according to the power law across the plate thickness. The nanoplate was modeled with uniform and symmetric distributions of porosity reaching as high as 60%. Upon incorporating the thermal and moisture loads from the humid surroundings into the equations of motion derived from Hamilton's principle, the equations were solved using Navier's method and simplified to the eigenvalue equation. Analyzed within a broad framework are the thermomechanical vibration behavior of the nanoplate, temperature impact, humidity influence, porosity and its distribution, material grading parameter effects, and nonlocal integral elasticity effects. Observations indicate that variations in thermal temperature, humidity, and nonlocal parameters can lower the thermomechanical vibration frequency of the nanoplate, whereas porosity has the opposite effect. The effects mentioned are influenced by factors, such as the porosity ratio, porosity distribution, material ratios, and the size of the nonlocal parameter in the plate. The primary objective of this work is to uncover the nonlinear frequency response of nanoplates with high porosity in conditions characterized by high temperature and humidity.
Including validation of process control systems’ engineering into the technical debt classification
Authors: Dong Quang Huan , Vogel-Heuser Birgit , Neumann Eva-Maria
Published: June 2024

The Technical Debt (TD) concept depicts a situation in which a technical compromise is selected despite a better solution available. The associated risks to TD may be critical if TD is overlooked or not fixed properly. For instance, the product might not be used safely (in the healthcare supplies industry) or be contaminated (in the food & beverage sector) due to a design fault not adequately addressed. This work extends the TD classification for process automation systems that need to undergo a validation process according to Good Automated Manufacturing Practice (GAMP), which is required for pharmaceutical production or food processing, for example. The approach analysed industrial engineering documents to identify such TD types and sub-types. Three selected TD use cases confirmed by industry experts are reported. The presented meta-analysis approach on engineering documents can be employed as a TD identification method for such process control systems. The TD classification for process automation was thereby enlarged for an especially critical type of machine that may harm the health of many humans.
When the diagnosis is in the patient’s hand and in the neurologist’s eye
Authors: Bertini Alessandro , Lenti Sveva , Libelli Giorgia , Ronco Riccardo , Oliveri Serena , Montemagno Kora , Priori Alberto , Bocci Tommaso
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to encompass current knowledge about pathophysiological mechanisms of those specific hand postures or deformities caused by central nervous system disorders. In the era of high-resolution neuroimaging and molecular biology, clinicians are progressively losing confidence with neurological examination. Careful hand observation is of key importance in order to differentiate neurological from non-neurological conditions, central from peripheral aetiologies, and organic from functional disorders. Localizing the potential anatomical site is essential to properly conduct subsequent exams. We provided a practical guide for clinicians to recognize hand patterns caused by central nervous system disorders, avoiding mimicking conditions, thus optimizing and prompting the diagnostic pathway.
Managing and treating COVID-19 in patients with hematological malignancies: a narrative review and expert insights
Authors: Ng Heng Joo , Alata Maaz Kamal , Nguyen Quang The , Huynh Duc Vinh Phu , Tan Jing Yuan , Wong Chieh Lee
Published: June 2024

Patients with hematologic malignancies (HMs) are at a significantly higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and experiencing severe outcomes compared to individuals without HMs. This heightened risk is influenced by various factors, including the underlying malignancy, immunosuppressive treatments, and patient-related factors. Notably, immunosuppressive regimens commonly used for HM treatment can lead to the depletion of B cells and T cells, which is associated with increased COVID-19-related complications and mortality in these patients. As the pandemic transitions into an endemic state, it remains crucial to acknowledge and address the ongoing risk for individuals with HMs. In this review, we aim to summarize the current evidence to enhance our understanding of the impact of HMs on COVID-19 risks and outcomes, identify particularly vulnerable individuals, and emphasize the need for specialized clinical attention and management. Furthermore, the impaired immune response to COVID-19 vaccination observed in these patients underscores the importance of implementing additional mitigation strategies. This may include targeted prophylaxis and treatment with antivirals and monoclonal antibodies as indicated. To provide practical guidance and considerations, we present two illustrative cases to highlight the real-life challenges faced by physicians caring for patients with HMs, emphasizing the need for individualized management based on disease severity, type, and the unique circumstances of each patient.
Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms and multiple myeloma: a meta-analysis
Authors: Lyu Chunyi , Yin Xuewei , Li Zonghong , Wang Teng , Xu Ruirong
Published: June 2024

Vitamin D acts through the vitamin D receptor (VDR), and vitamin D level decreases in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in VDR alter its functions to affect the vitamin D status. This raises the question of whether VDR gene polymorphisms are associated with MM risk, which has been investigated in case‒control studies, but the results have been inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the relationship between VDR gene polymorphisms and MM risk. The PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, Embase, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Scientific Journal (VIP), Wanfang Databases (WANFANG) were searched from inception to June 1, 2023, without language restriction or publication preference. Pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for each variable were calculated. Leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the source of heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed using Begg’ and Egger’s tests, and the trim-and-fill method was used to compensate for publication bias. The correlation meta‐analysis was conducted using Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis 3.0 and STATA 12.0 software. All the included studies were based on Asian populations and involved four VDR gene polymorphisms, TaqI (rs731236), ApaI (rs7975232), BsmI (rs1544410) and FokI (rs2228570). The results showed that TaqI (C vs. T: OR = 1.487, 95% CI 1.052, 2.104, P = 0.025; CC + CT vs. TT: OR = 1.830, 95% CI 1.138, 2.944, P = 0.013), ApaI (T vs. G: OR = 1.292, 95% CI 1.101, 1.517, P = 0.002; TT vs. GG: OR = 1.600, 95% CI 1.106, 2.314, P = 0.013; TG vs. GG: OR 1.305, 95% CI 1.050, 1.622; P = 0.016; TT + TG vs. GG: OR = 1.353, 95% CI 1.103, 1.662, P = 0.004), BsmI (GG vs. AA: OR = 1.918, 95% CI 1.293, 2.844, P = 0.001; GA vs. AA: OR = 1.333, 95% CI 1.058, 1.679, P = 0.015; G vs. A: OR = 1.398, 95% CI 1.180, 1.657, P = 0.000; GG vs. AA + GA: OR = 1.686, 95% CI 1.174, 2.423, P = 0.005), and FokI (T vs. C: OR = 1.687, 95% CI 1.474, 1.931, P = 0.000; TT vs. CC: OR = 2.829, 95% CI 2.066, 3.872, P = 0.000; TC vs. CC: OR = 1.579, 95% CI 1.304, 1.913, P = 0.000, TT + TC vs. CC: OR = 1.771, 95% CI 1.477, 2.125, P = 0.000; TT vs. CC + TC: OR = 2.409, 95% CI 1.814, 3.200, P = 0.000) are associated with MM risk. VDR gene polymorphisms including ApaI, BsmI, TaqI, and FokI are associated with MM risk in Asian populations. Additional studies with large sample sizes and different ethnicities are needed.
Phosphorus recycling by mineral-catalyzed ribonucleotide cleavage on iron and manganese oxides
Authors: Klein Annaleise R. , Basinski Jade J. , Niyitanga Manzi Aurore , Cheng Cynthia X. , Sanchez Marcos , Thongsomboon Wiriya , Aristilde Ludmilla
Published: June 2024

Phosphorus is an essential element influencing both food security via plant fertilization, and water pollution through excessive phosphorus use, yet the phosphorus cycle in ecosystems is poorly known. In particular, beyond adsorption, the role of iron and manganese oxides in catalyzing the abiotic dephosphorylation of biomolecules is debated. Here, we studied the reactions of ribonucleotides, containing different phosphate bonding, with goethite, hematite, and birnessite. We employed both high-resolution mass spectrometry of solution species and molecular modeling simulations of ribonucleotide-mineral complexes. Results disclose an up to fivefold preferential hydrolytic cleavage of a phosphoanhydride bond over a phosphoester bond, indicating that mineral-catalyzed reactions reflect the hierarchy reported for the activity of phosphatase enzymes. The fourfold higher catalytic reactivity of goethite and birnessite versus hematite is explained by mineral-specific binding rather than surface area differences. Corresponding simulated adsorbate conformations at the water–mineral interfaces are proposed. Overall, our findings provide new insights on the catalytic recycling of organic phosphorus species by mineral oxides.
How agricultural extension responds to amplified agrarian transitions in mainland Southeast Asia: experts’ reflections
Authors: Tran Thong Anh , Touch Van
Published: June 2024

Recent decades have witnessed widespread agrarian transitions in mainland Southeast Asia. This paper examines how agrarian transitions are shaped by multiple drivers of change, and how these interwoven processes have triggered shifts in agricultural extension practices in three countries in the Lower Mekong Basin: Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Drawing on interviews with experts working on the fields of agrarian studies and rural development, this paper argues that agrarian transitions not only put a strain on agricultural extension systems in responding to evolving needs, but they also stimulate the co-production of innovative agricultural extension models to address gaps left by the limited presence of extensionists. The study gains insight into challenges faced by extensionists, including a lack of resources, skills, and capacities to meet growing needs, which simultaneously urged them to excel in their work performance. The paper highlights the proactive role of ‘champions’ in orchestrating collective efforts towards the co-production of innovative agricultural extension models (e.g. Metkasekor), and the formulation of pluralistic extension platforms in enabling such ‘co-learning-to-act’ practices. By translating these insights into the broader contexts of agricultural and rural development in the Mekong region and beyond, this paper aims to make a two-fold contribution. First, it will assert how the ‘business-as-usual’ extension model has failed to adequately address emerging needs as a result of agrarian transitions. Second, it will provide pathways for the recognition and legitimisation of the pluralistic extension approach that fosters stakeholders’ co-learning and productive engagement in extension practices.
On the optimization of green multimodal transportation: a case study of the West German canal system
Authors: Binsfeld Tom , Hamdan Sadeque , Jouini Oualid , Gast Johannes
Published: June 2024

In this study, we address a biobjective multimodal routing problem that consists of selecting transportation modes and their respective quantities, optimizing transshipment locations, and allocating port orders. In the objective functions, we minimize total transportation costs and use the EcoTransit methodology to minimize total greenhouse gas emissions. The optimization model selects the transportation mode and transshipment port where quantities are transshipped from one mode to another. We compare inland waterway transportation and trucks encountering infrastructure failures that require rerouting or modal shifting in a real-life case study on the supply of goods for the chemical industry in the West German canal system. We propose a population-based heuristic to solve large instances in a reasonable computation time. A sensitivity analysis of demand, of varying lock times, and of infrastructure failure scenarios was conducted. We show that compared with inland waterway transportation, multimodal transportation reduces costs by 23% because of longer lock times. Our analysis shows that the use of inland waterway transportation only during infrastructure failures imposes nearly 28% higher costs per day depending on the failure location compared to that of the case of no failures. We also show that the use of a multimodal transportation system helps to reduce this cost increase in lock failure scenarios.
Invisible Victims: Exploring Gendered Trends in Youth Intimate Partner Homicide
Authors: Caman Shilan , Skott Sara
Published: June 2024

Intimate partner homicide (IPH) constitutes the most extreme form of intimate partner violence. While this violent crime affects many of women all around the world, little is known about this phenomenon when perpetrated against young victims. To date, no study has investigated trends of IPHs involving young victims. This study therefore aimed to investigate trends of IPHs in Sweden between 1990 and 2017, disaggregated by age-group and gender. Using register data, this study compared opposite-sex relationship IPH committed against young (≤ 25 years) and against adult (≥ 26 years) individuals, disaggregated by gender. Using poisson regression modelling, our study demonstrates that while rates of IPH against adult women has declined, the rate involving adolescent and young adult women has not. Our study also indicated a decreasing trend of IPH against adult men, albeit not significant. In conclusion, while IPH committed against adult women demonstrated a decrease over time, our findings suggest that IPH against young female victims has remained stable the past 27 years. As youth IPH has been a neglected subject of research, these findings suggest that the policies to combat IPV and IPH may not be adapted and tailored for the younger population.
Leadership development in virtual communities of practice: The case of school principals from the GCC Region
Authors: Ghamrawi Norma , Shal Tarek , Ghamrawi Najah A. R.
Published: June 2024

This study explores the potential of virtual communities of practice (vCoPs) in fostering leadership growth that aligns with the diverse needs and challenges faced by school principals. The study employs a qualitative research design, and conducts semi-structured interviews with 16 school principals from K-12 schools belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Findings suggest that vCoPs offer a rich environment for school principals to engage in collaborative learning, knowledge sharing, and professional networking, all of which contribute to their differentiated leadership development. Findings suggest that vCoPs offer flexible personalized learning paths that can support instructional, digital, and distributed leadership development of school principals. This advancement is made possible by creating a supportive and secure environment that is fortified by resilience, group cohesion, and robust feedback mechanisms. Additionally, vCoPs contribute to leadership development by fostering collective efficacy, cultivating shared beliefs in driving positive change, and disseminating these principles throughout the educational leadership community via social influence.
Student visual attention during group instruction phases in collaborative geometry problem solving
Authors: Haataja Eeva S. H. , Koskinen-Salmia Anniina , Salonen Visajaani , Toivanen Miika , Hannula Markku S.
Published: June 2024

Teacher gestures support mathematics learning and promote student collaboration. Aligned with speech, gestures can help students to notice the important visual information of geometry tasks. However, students’ visual attention to the teacher’s gestural cues during collaborative problem solving remains a largely unexplored field in mathematics education research. This mixed-method case study investigated relations between students’ visual attention, teacher gestures, and students’ collaborative problem-solving process on a geometry task. The data were collected with video cameras and mobile gaze trackers on four students simultaneously in two Finnish 9th-grade mathematics lessons with the same teacher. The findings show that the students attended to their own papers most of the time during the teacher's gestures, but differences in student attention between the gesture types emerged. The qualitative analysis showed that the teacher’s tracing, pointing, and representational gestures helped in directing student attention to targets relevant to the situational learning process. We conclude that teacher gestures can both convey mathematical contents and direct student attention, which intermediates mathematical thinking in problem solving.
Conservation equations for open-channel flow: effects of bed roughness and secondary currents
Authors: Zampiron Andrea , Ouro Pablo , Cameron Stuart M. , Stoesser Thorsten , Nikora Vladimir
Published: June 2024

Time-averaged velocity fields in uniform open-channel flows over rough beds may exhibit spatial heterogeneities due to the effects of bed roughness and secondary currents (SCs). The latter typically originate from the turbulence anisotropy and spatial heterogeneity introduced by the solid and mixed corners (i.e., between sidewalls and water surface), but may also appear due to roughness spanwise heterogeneities, e.g., associated with patchy vegetation distributions or streamwise sediment ridges on the channel bed. In this paper, we propose rigorous conservation equations for momentum, kinetic energy and fluid stresses accounting for the contributions of bed roughness and SCs, separately. Particular attention is given to the terms regulating the energy exchanges between roughness-induced and SC-related motions, which are expected to provide information on the physical mechanisms leading to the generation of roughness-induced SCs. The proposed approach is illustrated using a large-eddy simulation of a rough-bed open-channel flow.
A framework for evaluating the value of agricultural pest management decision support systems
Authors: Helps Joseph C. , van den Bosch Frank , Paveley Neil , Jørgensen Lise Nistrup , Holst Niels , Milne Alice E.
Published: June 2024

Disease management decision support systems (DSS) are typically prediction algorithms that help farmers assess the risk of an epidemic, to guide whether, and to what extent, fungicide treatment is needed. However, there is frequently little information presented to quantify the value of using the DSS, i.e. the likely increased profit or reduced impact to the environment, and the risks of failing to control the pest. Validation of DSS is often limited to a small number of sites and seasons, as extensive field testing is prohibitively expensive. It would therefore be beneficial to have a method to estimate the value of a DSS using existing data sets gathered for other purposes.

We present a theoretical framework for evaluating the value of DSS, and then describe how this can be applied in practice using four case studies of contrasting DSS under different data constraints. The four case studies include DSS that guide (i) the total dose of pesticide applied; (ii) the number of sprays required; (iii) the timing of the first fungicide application in a spray programme; and (iv) infection risk alerts. We demonstrate how our theoretical framework can be used to evaluate DSS, using existing field and literature data to infer the benefits and risks associated with their use. The limitations of using existing data are explored.
Agglomeration economies and firm’s export intensity: evidence from Portuguese manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Forte Rosa , Medeiros Ana
Published: June 2024

Export performance is a highly debated topic in the literature, with no consensus on how to measure it or what factors determine it. Most studies divide these factors into internal and external determinants, with a focus on internal determinants. This study, however, focuses on external determinants, namely agglomeration economies such as localization and urbanization economies and export spillovers, and their impact on a firm’s export intensity. Based on a large sample of Portuguese manufacturing SMEs over the period 2010 to 2018 (191,920 firm/year observations), the estimation results through the two-stage least squares method with fixed effects strongly indicate the existence of a positive relationship between agglomeration economies, particularly localization economies and export spillovers, and export performance. These findings suggest that firms located in areas with a high concentration of other firms in the same industry and other exporting firms tend to have better export performance, which has important implications for policymakers.
Socio-economic status, school performance, and university participation: evidence from linked administrative and survey data from Australia
Authors: Tomaszewski Wojtek , Xiang Ning , Kubler Matthias
Published: June 2024

Despite being a target of various policy interventions across developed countries, disparities in higher education participation among students from different socio-economic backgrounds remain persistent. While previous literature has outlined the processes through which parental resources can shape students’ educational decisions and pathways, the evidence remains scarce on how the effects of social origin on the participation in higher education vary along the academic performance distribution. Utilising multilevel models applied to large-scale linked administrative and survey data from Australia, this study explores how the participation in higher education varies along the students’ performance distribution by their social origins. Our results show that the effects of social origins on university participation are most pronounced in the middle of the academic performance distribution and taper off towards either end. Consideration is also given to exploring different ways to capture socio-economic status (SES) (i.e. through parental education and occupation) as an indicator of social origins. The results show that parental education serves as a better predictor of students’ university participation than does parental occupation. The paper discusses the implications of these findings for educational policies aimed at increasing university participation among individuals from low-SES backgrounds.
Rethinking Occupation Intensity during the Levantine Middle Epipalaeolithic: The use of Space and Site Formation Processes at the Geometric Kebaran site of Neve David, Israel
Authors: Friesem David E. , Yeshurun Reuven , Dunseth Zachary C. , Gur-Arieh Shira , Nadel Dani
Published: June 2024

The open-air Epipalaeolithic (Geometric Kebaran) site of Neve David (Mount Carmel, Israel) has played an important role in reconstructing scenarios of sedentarization in the Levant since its initial excavation in the 1980s, and has been seen as heralding later Natufian socioeconomic adaptations. However, little was known about the site’s formation processes and spatial organization, hindering the testing of this view. Employing new field data from Neve David, we present a combined macro- and microscopic analyses of the spatial and temporal distribution of lithics, faunal remains, phytoliths and wood ash, interpreted with the aid of ethnoarchaeological data and comparison to other Palaeolithic sites in the region. Post-depositional disturbance seems to be minimal at Neve David and we therefore suggest that the spatial distribution of the finds mostly represents human use of space. Throughout the thick sequence of occupation episodes, distinct division of space and well-preserved trampled occupation surfaces are generally lacking. We suggest that this pattern represents reduced mobility, as prolonged human activity blurs the primary depositional signal of the activity remains. The density of the finds generally increases in the upper layers of the site. Accordingly, we hypothesize that at the beginning of activity, the duration of occupation was longer and only later in the sequence of events was there an increase in group size. Our findings further highlight the position of the Geometric Kebaran as a pivotal stage in understanding the gap between the preceding highly mobile societies and the succeeding sedentary and demographically-larger Natufian societies.
Optimizing the curie temperature of La0.67Sr0.33MnO3–based composite materials around room temperature through the addition of Mo, Mn, and Ni metallic elements
Authors: Ak Y. Selim , Coşkun A. Tulga , Çetin S. K. , Akça G. , Irmak A. Ekber , Ekicibil A. , Coşkun A.
Published: June 2024

Our study sheds light on the role of secondary phases in optimizing the magnetic properties of LSMO, offering valuable insights into the relationship between impurity phases, Curie temperature (TC), and magnetic entropy change. To achieve this goal, the Mn, Ni, and Mo elements were individually incorporated into the LSMO matrix to the formation of secondary phases. The solid-state reaction method was employed to create composite materials of (0.8)La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 + (0.2)A (A=Mn, Ni, and Mo). XRD and SEM results confirmed the successful formation of impurity phases within the main LSMO phase. From temperature-dependent magnetization (M(T)) measurements, it was determined that the TC of the samples approach towards room temperature with the existence of impurity phases. Additionally, the relationship between electron bandwidth (W) and TC was examined. The lowest TC value was observed for the lowest value of W. Besides these, the effect of the formation of impurity phases on the maximum magnetic entropy change ($$-\Delta {S}_{M}^{max}$$

-
Δ

S

M

max

) value is examined, and it is seen that impurity phases cause a decrease in the $$(-\Delta {S}_{M}^{max})$$

(
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Δ

S

M

max

)

values.
A Power Method for Computing the Dominant Eigenvalue of a Dual Quaternion Hermitian Matrix
Authors: Cui Chunfeng , Qi Liqun
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we first study the projections onto the set of unit dual quaternions, and the set of dual quaternion vectors with unit norms. Then we propose a power method for computing the dominant eigenvalue of a dual quaternion Hermitian matrix. For a strict dominant eigenvalue, we show the sequence generated by the power method converges to the dominant eigenvalue and its corresponding eigenvector linearly. For a general dominant eigenvalue, we establish linear convergence of the standard part of the dominant eigenvalue. Based upon these, we reformulate the simultaneous localization and mapping problem as a rank-one dual quaternion completion problem. A two-block coordinate descent method is proposed to solve this problem. One block has a closed-form solution and the other block is the best rank-one approximation problem of a dual quaternion Hermitian matrix, which can be computed by the power method. Numerical experiments are presented to show the efficiency of our proposed power method.
Ethnic-Racial Identity and Attitude Change: Assessments of Outgroup and Diversity Attitudes among Adolescents in Sweden
Authors: Sandberg David J. , Frisén Ann , Juang Linda P. , Hwang C. Philip , Syed Moin
Published: June 2024

Outgroup and diversity attitudes are important components of intercultural understanding and well-being. Despite the potential of ethnic-racial identity development as a means to foster positive outgroup and diversity attitudes, little is known about its effectiveness in rapidly diversifying contexts such as Sweden. This pre-registered study filled this gap by examining if adolescents taking part in an intervention focused on ethnic-racial identity exploration, the Identity Project, also reported change in outgroup and diversity attitudes, and whether migration background, education type, and ethnic-racial identity development predicted such change. Twenty-three tenth-grade classes in Sweden (N = 509; Mage = 16.28; SDage = 0.80; 66% female; 51% migration background) participated in the intervention and were assessed in four waves over a period of 26 weeks. Whereas ethnic-racial identity exploration and resolution increased for the intervention group, the adolescents reported no change in outgroup and diversity attitudes when compared to a control group. Increases in ethnic-racial identity exploration and resolution co-varied with increases in attitudes, but only at Time 3. The results do not provide support for the link between ethnic-racial identity development and positive outgroup and diversity attitudes, and challenge the notion of attitude change as a cascading effect of the Identity Project intervention in non-US sociocultural contexts. All aspects of the study were pre-registered on the Open Science Framework platform (https://osf.io/f5896).
MRI-based sensing of pH-responsive content release from mesoporous silica nanoparticles
Authors: Mundžić Mirjana , Lazović Jelena , Mladenović Minja , Pavlović Aleksandra , Ultimo Amelia , Gobbo Oliviero L. , Ruiz-Hernandez Eduardo , Santos-Martinez Maria Jose , Knežević Nikola Ž.
Published: June 2024

A proof of principle study toward developing a novel methodology which could be applicable for a non-invasive monitoring of the release of cargo molecules from therapeutic and diagnostic nanoparticles, as well as for possible monitoring of tissue pH variations. This was achieved by quantifying changes in longitudinal relaxation time (T1) before and after the pH-responsive release of contrast agents, for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), from the pores of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs). The pores were filled with the FDA-approved contrast agent Gadobutrol (GdB), and its retention inside the pores ensured by covalent attachment of β-cyclodextrin monoaldehyde to hydrazine-functionalized MSN, through acidification-cleavable hydrazone linkage. The release kinetics of GdB was measured by fluorescence spectroscopy which revealed that the release of the contrast agent was enhanced at pH 5.0 in comparison to the release at pH 6.0 and 7.4. Furthermore, the changes in T1, occurring in response to the enhanced release of GdB from the pores of MSN at weakly acidic conditions, were successfully demonstrated by MRI measurements. It is envisioned that this approach using contrast agent-loaded nanoparticles before the treatment with the drug-filled analogs, could be applied in the future for tracking the locations and efficacies of nanomedicines for therapeutic cargo delivery.

Graphical Abstract
Neuroprotective and Neurite Outgrowth Stimulating Effects of New Low-Basicity 5-HT7 Receptor Agonists: In Vitro Study in Human Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y Cells
Authors: Jakubowska Klaudia , Hogendorf Adam S. , Gołda Sławomir , Jantas Danuta
Published: June 2024

There is some evidence that the serotonin receptor subtype 7 (5-HT7) could be new therapeutic target for neuroprotection. The aim of this study was to compare the neuroprotective and neurite outgrowth potential of new 5-HT7 receptor agonists (AH-494, AGH-238, AGH-194) with 5-CT (5-carboxyamidotryptamine) in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. The results revealed that 5-HT7 mRNA expression was significantly higher in retinoic acid (RA)-differentiated cells when compared to undifferentiated ones and it was higher in cell cultured in neuroblastoma experimental medium (DMEM) compared to those placed in neuronal (NB) medium. Furthermore, the safety profile of compounds was favorable for all tested compounds at concentration used for neuroprotection evaluation (up to 1 μM), whereas at higher concentrations (above 10 μM) the one of the tested compounds, AGH-194 appeared to be cytotoxic. While we observed relatively modest protective effects of 5-CT and AH-494 in UN-SH-SY5Y cells cultured in DMEM, in UN-SH-SY5Y cells cultured in NB medium we found a significant reduction of H2O2-evoked cell damage by all tested 5-HT7 agonists. However, 5-HT7-mediated neuroprotection was not associated with inhibition of caspase-3 activity and was not observed in RA-SH-SY5Y cells exposed to H2O2. Furthermore, none of the tested 5-HT7 agonists altered the damage induced by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP +) and doxorubicin (Dox) in UN- and RA-SH-SY5Y cells cultured in NB. Finally we showed a stimulating effect of AH-494 and AGH-194 on neurite outgrowth. The obtained results provide insight into neuroprotective and neurite outgrowth potential of new 5-HT7 agonists.
Exploring the Experience of Romantic Relationships and Sexuality Education in Neurodivergent and Neurotypical Young Individuals
Authors: Smusz Magdalena , Birkbeck Christopher , Bidgood Amy , Allely Clare S.
Published: June 2024

Purpose The literature indicates that sexuality education provided in schools/colleges in the United Kingdom (UK) may not be appropriate for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). There appears to be a lack of understanding of the subject regarding young people with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and a dual diagnosis (ASD co-occurring with ADHD). Research also suggests that compared to neurotypical peers, young people with ASD tend to receive less support on sexuality from their parents, who often feel that they lack the appropriate skills to help their children with some sex-related issues. Some young people with ASD and ADHD also report lacking an understanding of the social nuances of dating and intimacy, which is crucial for navigating romantic relationships. Design/methodology/approach This study explored sexuality education and romantic relationships in young people based on a semi-structured interview approach to the topic. Thematic Analysis (TA) was employed to analyze the data. Findings Six themes were developed from the participants’ narratives: Societal ideology about sexuality; Substandard school-based sexuality education; The role of adults in sexuality education; Pornography, as a very powerful alternative means of sexuality education; Young people and romance—a complicated world to navigate; Experience of abuse in the young neurodivergent population is a serious matter. Findings revealed that many neurodivergent and neurotypical young people received basic sex education in their schools/colleges and homes and encountered challenges navigating romantic relationships. Neurodivergent young people reported experiencing greater challenges related to their understanding of and building romantic relationships than their neurotypical  peers. Originality/value To the researchers’ knowledge, this is the first exploration of romantic relationships and sexuality education in neurotypical young people as well as three groups of neurodivergent young people (with ASD, ADHD, and ASD co-occurring with ADHD).
Thickener Behaviour in Rolling Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication Contacts
Authors: Okal Michal , Kostal David , Sakai Kazumi , Krupka Ivan , Hartl Martin
Published: June 2024

This paper focuses on the study of thickener behaviour in elastohydrodynamic contacts using fluorescence microscopy and optical interferometry. A standard Ball-on-disc configuration tribometer was used as well as a newly developed Ball-on-ring configuration tribometer mimicking the conditions in a 6314 deep groove ball bearing. Three types of custom-made greases were used with the same base oil and Coumarin 6 fluorescent dye on the thickener. These greases contained no additives and were of the lithium complex and alicyclic di-urea type. It was confirmed that the behaviour of the grease was directly influenced by both the structure and type of thickener, and the differences were successfully observed by fluorescence microscopy. The concentration of thickener was found to change due to the formation or breakdown of the deposited thickener layer on the track. At low speeds, the alicyclic di-urea forms a thickener layer on the track that is more pronounced than the lubricating film formed by the base oil alone. The thickener layer formation also occurs at higher speeds when fully flooded conditions are beneficial in building the layer. Experiments with a Ball-on-ring tribometer show that the natural replenishment of the real contact geometry is more effective than on a Ball-on-disc tribometer, but the formation of the thickener layer on the track is more limited than in a Ball-on-disc tribometer with artificial replenishment. At higher velocities, a smaller but stable layer is formed where the layer does not change much from a certain velocity.
Comparative Study of the Tribocorrosion Performance of NiTiNOL60 in Acidic, Alkaline, and Saline Environments
Authors: Okoani Anthony Onyebuchi , Nand Ashveen , Ramezani Maziar
Published: June 2024

In order to enhance the durability of tribological interfaces, an investigation into the synergistic effects of sliding wear, corrosion, and their interactions is crucial. This study focuses on understanding the deformation mechanisms of NiTiNOL60, a nickel-rich nickel-titanium alloy, during sliding against Al2O3 in different corrosive environments, including acidic, alkaline, and saline mediums. The pH of the environments is found to play a significant role in the tribocorrosion process, leading to electromechanically induced transformations and various wear patterns. Plastic deformations are observed on the wear track surfaces, particularly in the severe and mild wear regimes. In an alkaline environment, depassivation of the oxide layer triggers oxidational wear, with the depassivation rate dependent on factors like contact pressure, sliding velocity, and passive film properties. The wear volume is highest in saline environments, with contributions from mechanical wear, corrosion, and third-body abrasion. Grain deformations occur in the alkaline environment due to shear forces, while in the acidic medium, corrosion accelerates mild wear involving abrasion and delamination. The findings provide insights into wear mechanisms and localized corrosion, highlighting the influence of H+ and OH− groups (pH values) on corrosive wear and crack propagation.
Impacts of forest plantation programs on sectoral CO2 emissions regionally in New Zealand
Authors: Solaymani Saeed , Dunningham Andrew
Published: June 2024

Investing in projects that support environmental benefits, such as tree harvesting, has the potential to reduce air pollution levels in the atmosphere in the future. However, this kind of investment may increase the current level of emissions. Therefore, it is necessary to estimate how much the policy affects the current level of CO2 emissions. This makes sure the policy doesn’t increase the level of CO2 emissions. This study aims to analyze the effect of the One Billion Trees program on CO2 emissions in New Zealand by employing the 2020 input–output table analysis. This investigation examines the direct and indirect effects of policy on both the demand and supply sides across six regions of New Zealand. The results of this study for the first year of plantation suggest that the policy increases the level of CO2 emissions in all regions, especially in the Waikato region. The direct and indirect impact of the policy leads to 64 kt of CO2 emissions on the demand side and 270 kt of CO2 emissions on the supply side. These lead to 0.19 and 0.74% of total CO2 emissions being attributed to investment shocks. Continuing the policy is recommended, as it has a low effect on CO2 emissions. However, it is crucial to prioritize the use of low-carbon machinery that uses fossil fuels during the plantation process.
Robotic partial nephrectomy is associated with a significantly decreased rate of postoperative pseudoaneurysm compared to open and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy
Authors: Mahmud Husny , Haitovic Boris , Zilberman Dorit E. , Rosenzweig Barak , Laufer Menachem , Portnoy Orith , Fridman Eddie , Dotan Zohar A.
Published: June 2024

While partial nephrectomy offers oncologic efficacy and preserves renal function for T1 renal tumors, renal artery pseudoaneurysm (RAP) remains a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. This study compared RAP incidence across robotic-assisted (RAPN), laparoscopic (LPN), and open (OPN) partial nephrectomies in a large tertiary oncological center. This retrospective study analyzed 785 patients undergoing partial nephrectomy between 2012 and 2022 (398 RAPN, 122 LPN, 265 OPN). Data included demographics, tumor size/location, surgical type, clinical presentation, treatment, and post-operative outcomes. The primary outcome was RAP incidence, with secondary outcomes including presentation, treatment efficacy, and renal function. Seventeen patients (2.1%) developed RAP, presenting with massive hematuria (100%), hemorrhagic shock (5.8%), and clot retention (23%). The median onset was 12 days postoperatively. RAP occurred in 4 (1%), 4 (3.3%), and 9 (3.4%) patients following RAPN, LPN, and OPN, respectively (p = 0.04). Only operative length and surgical approach were independently associated with RAP. Selective embolization achieved immediate bleeding control in 94%, with one patient requiring a second embolization. No additional surgery or nephrectomy was needed. Estimated GFR at one year was similar across both groups (p = 0.53). RAPN demonstrated a significantly lower RAP incidence compared to LPN and OPN (p = 0.04). Emergency angiographic embolization proved effective, with no long-term renal function impact. This retrospective study lacked randomization and long-term follow-up. Further research with larger datasets and longer follow-ups is warranted. This study suggests that robotic-assisted partial nephrectomy is associated with a significantly lower risk of RAP compared to traditional approaches. Emergency embolization effectively treats RAP without compromising long-term renal function.
Insomnia in Germany—massively inadequate care?
Authors: Heidbreder Anna , Kunz Dieter , Young Pitt , Benes Heike , Chalet Francois-Xavier , Vaillant Cedric , Kaskel Peter , Fietze Ingo , Schöbel Christoph
Published: June 2024

People suffering from chronic insomnia are at an increased risk of physical and mental illness. The absenteeism rate for people with sleep disorders in Germany is more than twice as high as for people without. Therefore, appropriate diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders is a considerable medical and social necessity.

The aim of this prospectively planned analysis is to describe self-reported effects of insomnia in everyday life and the current medical treatment situation in Germany.

Data from a demographically representative sample of adults from the German participants in the National Health and Wellness Survey 2020 (N = 10,034) were analysed. Information was collected from respondents who reported insomnia confirmed by a physician (n = 532). The severity of insomnia at the time of the interview was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index. Health status and quality of life were assessed using EQ-5D and SF-36, and work productivity and work impairment using the Work Productivity and Activity Impact Questionnaire.

The median duration of illness was 5 years. About 50% of the respondents reported moderate to severe insomnia. Around 70% of those affected had never taken a prescription medication for their insomnia, and most of them said that they had never been recommended a prescription medication by a physician to treat their sleep disorder. Their health status, self-reported morbidity and quality of life were impaired compared with the general population.

People with insomnia have worse health than those without insomnia. A significant proportion of those affected are currently not offered prescription medication. Even if the reasons for this lack of care cannot be clearly determined based on self-reported information, the data indicate an inadequate and relevant care deficit for chronic insomnia in Germany.
Conceptualizing political knowledges needed to teach inclusive mathematics: theorizing through counterstories
Authors: Padilla Alexis , Lambert Rachel , Tan Paulo , White-Smith Kimberly
Published: June 2024

How do teachers develop and use political knowledge to create equitable and inclusive conditions for and with disabled students, particularly disabled students of color? In this essay, we build on concepts of political teacher knowledge in mathematics education, critical inclusive mathematics education and disability studies to explore teacher knowledges that support disabled students’ mathematical learning. We focus on four aspects of political knowledge for teaching mathematics: (1) knowledge as relational and unfolding over time, (2) understanding and negotiating the political contexts in which we teach mathematics, (3) deconstructing deficit discourses about marginalized students, and (4) learning to creatively resist the systems for and with our students. To develop our theoretical analysis, we use a counterstory of a middle school Latino student named Luis and his Latina mathematics teacher, Ms. Marquez. Our aim is to open up discussions in mathematics teacher educational research about the politics at play in teaching inclusive mathematics.
Comparing First-Year Engineering Student Conceptions of Ethical Decision-Making to Performance on Standardized Assessments of Ethical Reasoning
Authors: Cimino Richard T. , Streiner Scott C. , Burkey Daniel D. , Young Michael F. , Bassett Landon , Reed Joshua B.
Published: June 2024

The Defining Issues Test 2 (DIT-2) and Engineering Ethical Reasoning Instrument (EERI) are designed to measure ethical reasoning of general (DIT-2) and engineering-student (EERI) populations. These tools—and the DIT-2 especially—have gained wide usage for assessing the ethical reasoning of undergraduate students. This paper reports on a research study in which the ethical reasoning of first-year undergraduate engineering students at multiple universities was assessed with both of these tools. In addition to these two instruments, students were also asked to create personal concept maps of the phrase “ethical decision-making.” It was hypothesized that students whose instrument scores reflected more postconventional levels of moral development and more sophisticated ethical reasoning skills would likewise have richer, more detailed concept maps of ethical decision-making, reflecting their deeper levels of understanding of this topic and the complex of related concepts. In fact, there was no significant correlation between the instrument scores and concept map scoring, suggesting that the way first-year students conceptualize ethical decision making does not predict the way they behave when performing scenario-based ethical reasoning (perhaps more situated). This disparity indicates a need to more precisely quantify engineering ethical reasoning and decision making, if we wish to inform assessment outcomes using the results of such quantitative analyses.