bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Beauty Industry in Kazakhstan and the Attitude of Kazakh Citizens Toward Plastic Surgery
Authors: Amantayeva Jamilya B. , Burkhanova Dana K. , Amitov Sultankozha A. , Sarybayeva Indira S. , Nagaibayeva Zauresh A.
Published: January 2024

Every consultation with a patient at an aesthetic surgery clinic begins with the practitioner's need to understand the patient's reasons for wanting a change in their appearance. In our current society, physical attractiveness is viewed as a sign of having a fulfilled personality, successful career, happy marriage, and a comfortable life. Because of this, the option to undergo cosmetic surgery is becoming an increasingly important element of modern everyday life. We conducted a study to examine the beauty industry in modern Kazakh society. The article reviews and presents the results of an online survey of 515 Almaty people regarding their attitudes about cosmetic surgery. Our survey was formatted as a semiformalized questionnaire that included open and closed questions. Because the survey used a snowball approach (i.e., a sampling technique where existing study participants recruit additional participants from among their acquaintances), the sociodemographic portrait of the target audience was formed randomly. We also conducted interviews with four experts in cosmetic surgery in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The results obtained from this research make it possible to broaden the scientific understanding of specific features of the beauty industry and the interaction of potential consumers with experts in this sphere. Our study further illustrates human behavior in a sociocultural environment that allows researchers to analyze the various facets that influence an individual's self-perception, behavior, and decision-making in everyday life.
Human DDIT4L intron retention contributes to cognitive impairment and amyloid plaque formation
Authors: Li Kai-Cheng , Shi Hai-Xiang , Li Zhen , You Pu , Pan Jing , Cai Yi-Chuan , Li Jin-Wen , Ma Xue-Fei , Zhang Shuo , Diao Lei , Cai Bing , Lu Yang , Wang Hai-Bo , Zhong Yan-Qing , Chen Liang , Mao Ying , Zhang Xu
Published: January 2024

Cognitive impairment and amyloid plaques are the most important clinical and neuropathological feature for dementia, especially in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the etiology of dementia is complicated. The present study reveals that an aberrant splicing of DDIT4L, the isoform DDIT4L intron retention (DIR), occurs in AD patients. Homozygous DIR-knock-in (KI) mice showed DIR expression in hippocampal neurons, marked cognitive impairment, augmented Aβ deposition and enhanced Tau phosphorylation. The DIR colocalized with thioflavin S-positive plaques and gelsolin in AD patients. The DIR induced Aβ deposition and cognitive impairment by interacting with gelsolin. Moreover, DIR interacted with GluA1, the subunit of the AMPA receptor, contributing to synaptic deficiency and cognitive impairment. Furthermore, an anti-DIR monoclonal antibody (mAb) alleviated cognitive impairment and reduced Aβ deposition and Tau phosphorylation. Thus, DIR contributes to cognitive impairment and amyloid plaques, and could be a potential therapeutic target for dementia.
Cell density couples tissue mechanics to control the elongation speed of the body axis
Authors: Lu Changqing , Vidigueira Joana M. N. , Jie Christopher Chan Jin , Maksymiuk Alicja , Xiong Fengzhu
Published: January 2024

The vertebrate body forms by addition of new tissues at the posterior end. This leads to body axis elongation which balances the anterior segmentation process to produce the stereotypic body plan. How elongation speed is constrained remains unknown. Here we utilised modeling and tissue force microscopy on chicken embryos to show that cell density of the posterior presomitic mesoderm (pPSM) dynamically modulates elongation speed in a negative feedback loop. Elongation alters the cell density in the pPSM, which in turn controls progenitor cell influx through the mechanical coupling of body axis tissues. This enables responsive cell dynamics in over- and under-elongated axes that consequently self-adjust speed to achieve long-term robustness in axial length. Our simulations and experiments further suggest that cell density and FGF activity act synergistically to drive elongation. Our work supports a simple mechanism of morphogenetic speed control where the cell density relates negatively to progress, and positively to force generation.
Rapid turnover of CTLA4 is associated with a complex architecture of reversible ubiquitylation
Authors: Tey Pei Yee , Dufner Almut , Knobeloch Klaus-Peter , Pruneda Jonathan N. , Clague Michael J. , Urbé Sylvie
Published: January 2024

The immune checkpoint regulator CTLA4 is an unusually short-lived membrane protein. Here we show that its lysosomal degradation is dependent on ubiquitylation at Lysine residues 203 and 213. Inhibition of the v-ATPase partially restores CTLA4 levels following cycloheximide treatment, but also reveals a fraction that is secreted in exosomes. The endosomal deubiquitylase, USP8, interacts with CTLA4 and its loss enhances CTLA4 ubiquitylation in cancer cells, mouse CD4+T cells and in cancer cell-derived exosomes. Depletion of the USP8 adapter protein, HD-PTP, but not ESCRT-0 recapitulates this cellular phenotype, but shows distinct propertiesvis-à-visexosome incorporation. Re-expression of wild-type USP8, but neither a catalytically inactive, nor a localisation-compromised ΔMIT domain mutant can rescue delayed degradation of CTLA4, or counteract its accumulation in clustered endosomes. UbiCRest analysis of CTLA4-associated ubiquitin chain linkages identifies a complex mixture of conventional Lys63- and more unusual Lys27- and Lys29-linked polyubiquitin chains that may underly the rapidity of protein turnover.
Targeting the G-quadruplex structure in the hTERT promoter: In silico screening of phytocompounds and replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Uttarkar Akshay , Niranjan Vidya
Published: January 2024

Telomerase activity plays a crucial role in maintaining telomere length and cellular immortality, making it an attractive target for cancer therapy. The human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) promoter contains a G-rich region that can form G-quadruplex (G4) structures, which have been shown to regulate hTERT expression. In this study, we used in silico screening and molecular dynamics simulations to identify phytocompounds that can stabilize the G4 structure in the hTERT promoter. We performed shape-based and pharmacophore-based screening of a phytochemical database and identified two lead compounds with assistance from oleanolic acid and maslinic acid as controls which showed in vitro telomerase activity. Molecular docking and replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations for a temperature profile of 300K to 350K were used to evaluate the binding affinity and stability of these compounds with two different G4 conformations in the hTERT promoter. Our results suggest that astragaloside-1 can stabilize the parallel-stranded G4 conformation (2kze) in the hTERT promoter, while novel compounds may be required to stabilize the intramolecular G4 conformation (2kzd). Our study highlights the potential of in silico screening and molecular dynamics simulations in identifying lead compounds for targeting G4 structures.
Automated liquid handling extraction and rapid quantification of underivatized amino acids and tryptophan metabolites from human serum and plasma using dual-column U(H)PLC-MRM-MS and its application to prostate cancer study
Authors: Kipura Tobias , Hotze Madlen , Hofer Alexa , Egger Anna-Sophia , Timpen Lea E. , Opitz Christiane , Townsend Paul A. , Gethings Lee A. , Thedieck Kathrin , Kwiatkowski Marcel
Published: January 2024

Free amino acids (AAs) and their metabolites are important building blocks, energy sources and signaling molecules associated with various pathological phenotypes. The quantification of AA and tryptophan (TRP) metabolites in human serum and plasma is therefore of great diagnostic interest. Robust and reproducible sample extraction and processing workflows as well as rapid, sensitive absolute quantification of AA and TRP metabolites are required to identify candidate biomarkers and to improve current screening methods. We developed a validated semi-automated extraction and sample processing workflow using a robotic liquid handling platform and a rapid method for the absolute quantification of 20 free, underivatized AAs and 6 TRP metabolites using dual-column U(H)PLC-MRM-MS. The automated extraction and sample preparation workflow is designed for use in a 96-well plate format, allowing robust and reproducible high sample throughput without the need for further SPE, evaporation and/or buffer exchange. Samples extracted from serum and/or plasma in 96-well plates can be transferred directly to the U(H)PLC autosampler. The dual-column U(H)PLC-MRM-MS method, using a mixed- mode reversed-phase anion exchange column with formic acid as mobile phase modifier and a high- strength silica reversed-phase column with difluoroacetic acid as mobile phase additive, provided absolute quantification with nanomolar lower limits of quantification (LLOQ) for all metabolites except glycine (LLOQ: 2.46 µM) in only 7.9 minutes. The semi-automated extraction workflow and dual-column U(H)PLC-MRM-MS method was applied to a human prostate cancer study and was shown to discriminate between treatment regimens and to identify amino acids responsible for the statistical separation between healthy controls and prostate cancer patients on active surveillance.
DMSO derives Trophectoderm and Clonal Blastoid from Single Human Pluripotent Stem Cell
Authors: Alsolami Samhan , Chandrasekaran Arun Pandian , Jin Yiqing , Shakir Ismail M. , Zhang Yingzi , Ramos-Mandujano Gerardo , Yuan Baolei , Saera-Vila Alfonso , Izpisua Belmonte Juan Carlos , Li Mo
Published: January 2024

Human naïve pluripotent stem cells (nPSCs) can differentiate into extra-embryonic trophectoderm (TE), a critical step in the generation of the integrated embryo model termed blastoid. The current paradigm of blastoid generation necessitates the aggregation of dozens of nPSCs treated with multiple small molecule inhibitors, growth factors, or genetic modifications to initiate TE differentiation. The presence of complex crosstalk among pathways and cellular heterogeneity in these models complicates mechanistic study and genetic screens. Here, we show that a single small molecule, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), potently induces TE differentiation in basal medium without pharmacological and genetic perturbations. DMSO enhances blastoid generation and, more importantly, is sufficient for blastoid generation by itself. DMSO blastoids resemble blastocysts in morphology and lineage composition. DMSO induces blastoid formation through PKC signaling and cell cycle regulation. Lastly, DMSO enables single nPSC-derived clonal blastoids, which could facilitate genetic screens for mechanistic understanding of human embryogenesis.
Sensitive and error-tolerant annotation of protein-coding DNA with BATH
Authors: Krause Genevieve R. , Shands Walt , Wheeler Travis J.
Published: January 2024

We present BATH, a tool for highly sensitive annotation of protein-coding DNA based on direct alignment of that DNA to a database of protein sequences or profile hidden Markov models (pHMMs). BATH is built on top of the HMMER3 code base, and simplifies the annotation workflow for pHMM-based annotation by providing a straightforward input interface and easy-to-interpret output. BATH also introduces novel frameshift-aware algorithms to detect frameshift-inducing nucleotide insertions and deletions (indels). BATH matches the accuracy of HM-MER3 for annotation of sequences containing no errors, and produces superior accuracy to all tested tools for annotation of sequences containing nucleotide indels. These results suggest that BATH should be used when high annotation sensitivity is required, particularly when frameshift errors are expected to interrupt protein-coding regions, as is true with long read sequencing data and in the context of pseudogenes.
MIWI arginines orchestrate generation of functional pachytene piRNAs and spermiogenesis
Authors: Vrettos Nicholas , Oppelt Jan , Zoch Ansgar , Sgourdou Paraskevi , Yoshida Haruka , Song Brian , Fink Ryan , O’Carroll Dónal , Mourelatos Zissimos
Published: January 2024

N-terminal arginine (NTR) methylation is a conserved feature of PIWI proteins, which are central components of the PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway. The significance and precise function of PIWI NTR methylation in mammals remains unknown. In mice, PIWI NTRs bind Tudor domain containing proteins (TDRDs) that have essential roles in piRNA biogenesis and the formation of the chromatoid body. Using mouse MIWI (PIWIL1) as paradigm, we demonstrate that the NTRs are essential for spermatogenesis through the regulation of transposons and gene expression. Surprisingly, the loss of TDRD5 and TDRKH interaction with MIWI results in defective piRNA amplification, rather than an expected failure of piRNA biogenesis. We find that piRNA amplification is necessary for both transposon control and for sustaining levels of select, nonconserved, pachytene piRNAs that target specific mRNAs required for spermatogenesis. Our findings support the notion that the vast majority of pachytene piRNAs are dispensable, acting as autonomous genetic elements that rely for propagation on MIWI piRNA amplification. MIWI-NTRs also mediate interactions with TDRD6 that are necessary for chromatoid body compaction. Furthermore, MIWI-NTRs promote stabilization of spermiogenic transcripts that drive nuclear compaction, which is essential for sperm formation. In summary, the NTRs underpin the diversification of MIWI protein function.

Key points

MIWI-NTRs coordinate interactions with TDRDs required for piRNA biogenesis to sustain piRNA amplification

MIWI-NTRs are necessary for both transposon control and for sustaining levels of select pachytene piRNAs that target specific mRNAs required for spermiogenesis

MIWI-NTRs mediate interactions with TDRD6 to compact the Chromatoid Body

MIWI-NTRs underlie stabilization of spermiogenic transcripts that drive nuclear compaction, which is essential for sperm formation
Assessing large multimodal models for one-shot learning and interpretability in biomedical image classification
Authors: Hou Wenpin , Liu Qi , Ma Huifang , Qu Yilong , Ji Zhicheng
Published: January 2024

Image classification plays a pivotal role in analyzing biomedical images, serving as a cornerstone for both biological research and clinical diagnostics. We demonstrate that large multimodal models (LMMs), like GPT-4, excel in one-shot learning, generalization, interpretability, and text-driven image classification across diverse biomedical tasks. These tasks include the classification of tissues, cell types, cellular states, and disease status. LMMs stand out from traditional single-modal classification approaches, which often require large training datasets and offer limited interpretability.
Stable non-BPS black holes and black strings in five dimensions
Authors: Mishra Anshul , Tripathy Prasanta K.
Published: January 2024

In this paper we study black hole and black string solutions in five dimensional N=2 supergravity theories arising from the compactification of M-theory on Calabi-Yau manifolds. In particular, we consider explicit examples of three parameter Calabi-Yau manifolds which are obtained as hypersurfaces in toric varieties. Using the attractor mechanism, we obtain Bogomol’nyi-Prasad-Sommerfield (BPS) as well as non-BPS black holes in these compactified supergravity theories. We also consider the black string solutions in these models. We analyze the stability of these extremal black brane configurations by computing the recombination factor. We find multiple stable non-BPS attractor solutions in some of these models.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Analytical models representing X-ray form factors of ions
Authors: Thorkildsen Gunnar
Published: January 2024

Parameters in analytical models for X-ray form factors of ions f
0(s), based on the inverse Mott–Bethe formula involving a variable number of Gaussians, are determined for a wide range of published data sets {s, f
0(s)}. The models reproduce the calculated form-factor values close to what is expected from a uniform statistical distribution with limits determined by their precision. For different ions associated with the same atom, the number of Gaussians in the models decreases with increasing net positive charge.
Preparation and characterization of inactivated tick-borne encephalitis virus samples for single-particle imaging at the European XFEL
Authors: Vorovitch Mikhail F. , Samygina Valeriya R. , Pichkur Evgeny , Konarev Peter V. , Peters Georgy , Khvatov Evgeny V. , Ivanova Alla L. , Tuchynskaya Ksenia K. , Konyushko Olga I. , Fedotov Anton Y. , Armeev Grigory , Shaytan Konstantin V. , Kovalchuk Mikhail V. , Osolodkin Dmitry I. , Egorov Alexey M. , Ishmukhametov Aydar A.
Published: January 2024

X-ray imaging of virus particles at the European XFEL could eventually allow their complete structures to be solved, potentially approaching the resolution of other structural virology methods. To achieve this ambitious goal with today's technologies, about 1 ml of purified virus suspension containing at least 1012 particles per millilitre is required. Such large amounts of concentrated suspension have never before been obtained for enveloped viruses. Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) represents an attractive model system for the development of enveloped virus purification and concentration protocols, given the availability of large amounts of inactivated virus material provided by vaccine-manufacturing facilities. Here, the development of a TBEV vaccine purification and concentration scheme is presented combined with a quality-control protocol that allows substantial amounts of highly concentrated non-aggregated suspension to be obtained. Preliminary single-particle imaging experiments were performed for this sample at the European XFEL, showing distinct diffraction patterns.
Environmental innovations and sustainability practices of manufacturing firms in Uganda
Authors: Alinda Kassim , Tumwine Sulait , Kaawaase Twaha Kigongo
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the pivotal role of environmental innovations in driving sustainability practices within medium and large manufacturing firms operating in Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional and quantitative methodology, data were collected through a questionnaire survey involving 208 manufacturing companies. The smart partial least squares path modelling technique was used for the analysis.

Findings

The analysis unveils significant and positive associations. Specifically, product innovation exhibits a robust and affirmative relationship with sustainability practices. Similarly, the correlation between process innovation and sustainability practices emerges as statistically significant. Moreover, the findings underscore the noteworthy and constructive predictive influence of environmental innovation on sustainability practices.

Practical implications

These empirical results present substantial implications for theoretical frameworks and practical applications. From a policy perspective, the findings emphasise the importance of incentivising eco product and eco process innovations as potential drivers of eco-friendly practices. On the managerial front, strategic resource allocation and the adoption of integrated environmental innovation strategies are advocated, with the ultimate goal of enhancing sustainable business approaches within Uganda’s manufacturing subsector.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study represents the inaugural attempt to investigate the role of environmental innovations in elucidating sustainability practices within a least developed country. Notably, while all dimensions demonstrate significance, it is noteworthy that product innovation emerges as the more substantial contributor to the promotion of sustainability practices.
The interplay between psychological empowerment and employee engagement: identifying research trends using SPAR-4-SLR process
Authors: Kaul Natashaa , Deshpande Amruta , Mittal Amit , Raut Rajesh , Bhandari Harveen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the research that examines psychological empowerment (PE) and employee engagement (EE) via bibliometric analysis. The study also aims to offer an overview of the present state of research and indicate potential future research topics.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature on PE and engagement was reviewed using bibliometric analysis based on publications in the Scopus database. The analysis comprises a three-field plot, theoretical framework examination, thematic analysis and quantitative analysis of the most frequently referenced publications, affiliations, countries and authors.

Findings

The study identifies research trends such as the use of the leadership lens, the examination of the different degrees of empowerment, the examination of alternate mechanisms to improve engagement and the impact of supervisor resources on these constructs. The study also suggests areas for future research, such as the influence of leadership and organizational culture on these two factors, the link between PE and EE and the impact of the changing structure of work via the increased use of technology and new work relations like gig work on these concepts.

Originality/value

This study offers a thorough and systematic overview of the state of the research in the area of PE and EE. This study emphasizes the significance of PE and engagement in management by giving a thorough overview of the present state of research and outlining future research possibilities.
Analysts’ cash flow forecasts and firms’ information environment: evidence from bid-ask spread
Authors: Ma Mengyu
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether the cash flow forecasts (CFF) of analysts can disseminate valuable information to the information environments of companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The author uses empirical archival methodology to conduct differences-in-difference analyses.

Findings

It is found that information asymmetry decreases in the treatment group following the initiation of CFF during the postperiod, which is consistent with the hypothesis of this paper.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first among the cash flow forecast studies to demonstrate the usefulness of CFF in the mitigation of information asymmetry, a friction that is widespread in capital markets.
On value-laden patents: a call for moral limits
Authors: Acosta Benedicto
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The main purpose of this paper is to discuss the suitability of moral and ordre public clauses, and to advance the view that ethical reflection within patent systems is valuable.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper that draws upon the present situation in Europe to illuminate a discussion of the different views about the morality patents, with particular emphasis on criticism of authors who have espoused a narrow interpretation of moral clauses, such as that adopted by the European Patent Office.

Findings

This research found that the claim that patent systems are not appropriate places in which to evaluate moral matters and, therefore, they cannot inform us about morality is false. This is because inventors do not need to wait for authorizing legislation prior to making use of their technology. Hence, moral implications can be evaluated.

Research limitations/implications

These ideas also lead to important theoretical consequences, especially regarding the debate on value-laden science and technology. However, further efforts are needed to address other patent regimes, such as the non-European.

Practical implications

It is shown how the bioethicist community can be incorporated into patent offices. The responsibilities of examiners and businesses in the process are also discussed.

Originality/value

There have been a limited number of studies that examine the value of ethical considerations within the patent system. This paper provides a thought-provoking discussion of moral clauses in Europe. The author also suggests new ways of incorporating ethical scrutiny into patent systems.
Intersecting bonds: a perspective on polygamy's influence in Arab Middle East family firm succession
Authors: Haj Youssef Moustafa , Wasim Jahangir , Christodoulou Ioannis , Reinhardt Robert
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to explore and elucidate the influence of polygamy on the succession dynamics of family businesses in the Arab world, offering insights that may be underrepresented or overlooked in traditional, Western-focused literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This article adopts a perspective-based approach, focusing on delving into the amalgamation of polygamous family structures and their implications on the operation and continuation of family-run businesses.

Findings

Polygamy, while often primarily perceived as a cultural or religious tradition, wields substantial influence over various business facets. Notably, its presence can significantly shape business continuity, the methodologies behind succession planning and the overarching framework of corporate governance within Arab family businesses.

Originality/value

This article offers a unique Middle Eastern lens, highlighting the underexplored intersection of polygamy and business succession. It strives to bridge the knowledge gap by addressing topics potentially sidelined in mainstream Western business research.
Ponzi schemes in Brazil: what leads people to still invest in this fraud?
Authors: Constantino Thiago Da Silva Telles , Da Silva Antônio Carlos Magalhães , Constantino Maria Aline Moreira De Oliveira
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Most scientific research has focused on understanding Ponzi schemes from the point of view of the schemes and their operators, based on qualitative analysis. This paper aims to analyze Ponzi schemes from the perspective of their investors, emphasizing behavioral aspects, which have been little explored in the scientific literature, especially in quantitative research. In this way, the authors sought to understand the effects of heuristics and cognitive biases in understanding investor behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

A logistic regression was carried out with Brazilian investors, some of them participants in Ponzi schemes, who answered a structured questionnaire by means of a survey.

Findings

The authors found that social pressures, overconfidence and deliberate ignorance lead to credulity, generating little risk analysis and the desire to make a lot of money quickly.

Practical implications

Helping investors improve their levels of information through financial education and self-knowledge about their behavior. Contribute to the competent authorities in the search for improvements in the information displayed to investors.

Social implications

Understanding the mechanisms used when making a financial decision from the point of view of investors in general, but especially those exposed to Ponzi schemes, has the mission of enlightening them about the importance of financial education and the weight of psychological factors so that they can reduce the effects of heuristics and analysis biases when faced with a financial decision.

Originality/value

The basis of this work will be the inclusion of psychological variables and financial education, adapting existing models in an attempt to demonstrate the effects they may or may not have on mental accounting in the specific case of investors
Adoption of smart technologies in the cruise tourism services: a systematic review and future research agenda
Authors: Gonzáles-Santiago Marcya Stefany , Loureiro Sandra Maria Correira , Langaro Daniela , Ali Faizan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to systematically analyze existing studies related to the adoption of smart technologies in cruise tourism services, particularly robots, artificial intelligence, service automation and virtual reality. More specifically, the authors intend to highlight the current state of research on this topic, present the findings within a conceptual framework and propose a research agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

The relevant literature was extracted using two major electronic databases, web of science (WoS) and Scopus. The authors identified 31 articles from high-quality journals and used a systematic review and the VOSviewer software to analyze them.

Findings

Since 2014, there has been an increase in the number of studies related to smart technologies in cruise tourism services. At first, researchers focused on Royal Caribbean’s robotic bartender arm, whereas other technologies such as digital signage, self-service options, facial recognition and virtual culinary experiences received less attention. However, the interest in exploring these last smart technologies has grown significantly since 2019. The adoption of RAISA in the cruise tourism service (ASCT) framework was proposed, identifying five major domains: cruise robotic technology, technology innovation, cruise passengers’ engagement behavior, cruise passengers’ technology readiness and privacy perception and knowledge expertise. These domains provide valuable guidance for future research in this field.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to systematically analyze literature on the adoption of new technologies in cruise tourism services, specifically focusing on the major technologies available on cruise ships.
Collaborative algorithm of workpiece scheduling and AGV operation in flexible workshop
Authors: Cheng Wenlong , Meng Wenjun
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to solve the problem of job scheduling and multi automated guided vehicle (AGV) cooperation in intelligent manufacturing workshops.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, an algorithm for job scheduling and cooperative work of multiple AGVs is designed. In the first part, with the goal of minimizing the total processing time and the total power consumption, the niche multi-objective evolutionary algorithm is used to determine the processing task arrangement on different machines. In the second part, AGV is called to transport workpieces, and an improved ant colony algorithm is used to generate the initial path of AGV. In the third part, to avoid path conflicts between running AGVs, the authors propose a simple priority-based waiting strategy to avoid collisions.

Findings

The experiment shows that the solution can effectively deal with job scheduling and multiple AGV operation problems in the workshop.

Originality/value

In this paper, a collaborative work algorithm is proposed, which combines the job scheduling and AGV running problem to make the research results adapt to the real job environment in the workshop.
A layerwise geometric error compensation procedure for additive manufacturing
Authors: Peña Fernando , Rico José Carlos , Zapico Pablo , Valiño Gonzalo , Mateos Sabino
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a new procedure for in-plane compensation of geometric errors that often appear in the layers deposited by an additive manufacturing (AM) process when building a part, regardless of the complexity of the layer geometry.

Design/methodology/approach

The procedure is based on comparing the real layer contours to the nominal ones extracted from the STL model of the part. Considering alignment and form deviations, the compensation algorithm generates new compensated contours that match the nominal ones as closely as possible. To assess the compensation effectiveness, two case studies were analysed. In the first case, the parts were not manufactured, but the distortions were simulated using a predictive model. In the second example, the test part was actually manufactured, and the distortions were measured on a coordinate measuring machine.

Findings

The geometric deviations detected in both case studies, as evaluated by various quality indicators, reduced significantly after applying the compensation procedure, meaning that the compensated and nominal contours were better matched both in shape and size.

Research limitations/implications

Although large contours showed deviations close to zero, dimensional overcompensation was observed when applied to small contours. The compensation procedure could be enhanced if the applied compensation factor took into account the contour size of the analysed layer and other geometric parameters that could have an influence.

Originality/value

The presented method of compensation is applicable to layers of any shape obtained in any AM process.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on regional inflation in Indonesia
Authors: Nugraha Iqbal Reza , Sahadewo Gumilang Aryo , Setiastuti Sekar Utami
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of COVID-19 on inflation in Indonesia. There are two questions in this study: (1) Is there an impact of COVID-19 on inflation in Indonesia? and (2) whether there are differences in the impact of COVID-19 on regional inflation in Indonesia, considering the different intensities associated with COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

The estimation technique showing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on inflation uses the difference-in-differences (DID) method described by Pischke (2008). The core idea of the estimation above is continuous DID using panel data. No province was affected by COVID-19 before 2020:Q1. Once COVID-19 hits the economy, the effects vary from one district to the other.

Findings

The authors find that the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affects inflation – the more severe the pandemic, the lower the inflation. This finding conforms with several studies suggesting higher demand pressures than supply during the pandemic. Compared with supply-side indicators such as production index, demand-side indicators – such as consumer confidence index and real sales index – fell more sharply.

Research limitations/implications

In the Introduction section, the authors have added a discussion that indeed the COVID-19 pandemic affects inflation through both the demand- and supply-side shocks. While factors driving regional differences in inflation rate are important research and policy questions, the analysis of these factors is outside the scope of this study. The study focuses on the COVID-19 impact on inflation and whether the pandemic disproportionately affects some regions than the others.

Practical implications

This research is important to provide an understanding of the nature of the pandemic on inflation in the context of the Indonesian economy, which is essential to policy formulation, especially for the Central Bank in carrying out the mandate to maintain rupiah stability. This issue is due to the implications of different policy responses between demand- and supply-side shocks.

Originality/value

As a novelty in this study and research gap, the authors use a continuous DID method to account for the varying intensity of COVID-19 across the provinces. In particular, the authors use the number of positive cases of COVID-19 per 1,000 population as opposed to just a binary indicator of before-and-during COVID-19 across provinces.
Social inequality in completion rates in higher education: Heterogeneity in educational fields
Authors: Helland Håvard , Strømme Thea B.
Published: January 2024

This article examines how social disparities in dropout rates vary by educational field. Previous studies have shown that first‐generation students, in general, have lower higher education completion rates than their fellow students. Less is known, however, about how such disparities vary between educational fields. We distinguish between general and field specific cultural capital and find that general cultural capital mainly operates through academic preparedness in upper secondary school, and after controlling for upper secondary school grade point average (GPA), students with parents with higher education degrees in a different field than themselves do not complete their degrees more often than first‐generation students. More field‐specific advantages of having a parent with a similar education are nonetheless visible in many fields also when we compare students with equal grades. Our analyses of Norwegian register data on the entire student population (N ≈ 400,000) show that the social inequalities are largest in fields that are both soft and pure, like humanities and social science, and that in soft and applied educational fields, like teaching and social work, the social differences are small and insignificant after controlling for GPA from upper secondary school. In fields classified as hard, it is only the students with parents with a similar education who complete their initial degree more often than first‐generation students. We suggest that status group formation, field‐specific cultural capital and micro‐class reproduction may all contribute to explaining these patterns.
Is natural resource dependence a blessing or curse for sustainable energy blueprint? An empirical insight towards achieving sustainable environment
Authors: Huang Jianjie , Lanre Ibrahim Ridwan , Al‐Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh
Published: January 2024

Natural resources have become the centerpiece of global discussion recently in an effort to achieving sustainable development. There are arguments that as much as natural resources are inevitable for development; they are disastrous to factors that promote sustainability of the global environment of which the transition to sustainable energy stands out. That notwithstanding, studies have been largely engrossed in verifying the roles natural resources on economic growth and the environment. Consequently, this research provides the first empirical evidence on the impacts of natural resources on sustainable environment in a global dataset for 73 countries from 1997 to 2019. To extend the frontier of knowledge, the roles of technological advancement, structural change, regulatory quality, and foreign direct investment are considered in the empirical model. The empirical evidence relies on cross‐sectional autoregressive distributed lag, augmented mean group; common correlated effects mean group and method of moment quantile regression. The preliminary analyses show that the world is presently in a renewable energy deficit while recording a gradual shift from relying on natural resources. Feedbacks from the model evaluated expose that natural resource dependence curses sustainable energy through its militating impacts. Besides, technological advancement, structural change, regulatory quality, and foreign direct investment significantly and positively drive sustainable energy. Besides, the quantile regression analysis provides diverging magnitudes. Policies that promote sustainable energy are suggested.
Radiographic and sonographic features, and histogram parameters of the liver and spleen in healthy Toco toucans (Ramphastos toco, Müller 1976)
Authors: da Silva Jeana Pereira , Rahal Sheila Canevese , Moresco Anneke , Castiglioni Maria Cristina Reis , de Campos Vettorato Michel , Rolim Luna Scarpari , Ichikawa Ricardo Shoiti , Mamprim Maria Jaqueline
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate radiographic and sonographic features, and histogram parameters based on grayscale ultrasound of the liver and spleen in healthy toco toucans. Fifteen adult toco toucans (Ramphastos toco), seven females and eight males, weighing approximately 650 g, were enrolled in the study. On the right lateral radiographic view, the liver was visualized in the midventral region of the coelomic cavity; ultrasonographically, the liver was located in the middle portion of the coelomic cavity in close relationship to the heart, and thoracic and abdominal air sacs. Two hepatic lobes were identified; the right lobe was larger than the left one. The spleen was visualized in 10 toco toucans on radiographs and only in eight toucans on ultrasound exams. The gallbladder was identified only on ultrasound. On the right lateral radiographic view, the spleen was visualized dorsal to the proventriculus and ventral to the lungs/air sacs as an oval shape. Ultrasonographically, the spleen was observed caudal to the liver, cranial to the proventriculus and craniodorsal to the ventriculus. There was no significant difference in spleen length for either radiographic or ultrasound measurements. The brightness intensity (BI) for mean gray level (G) and standard deviation of gray levels (SG) in the liver were 101.315 (± 16.170) and 12.453 (± 2.616), respectively. Mean G and SG levels in the spleen were 63.940 (± 18.321) and 7.494 (± 3.595), respectively. In conclusion, the sonographic features and histogram parameters indicated that the liver is more echogenic and heterogeneous than the spleen, which must be considered for diagnosing alterations in these organs.
PAttern of drug use in PEdiatrics: An observational study in Italian hOSpitals (the PAPEOS study)
Authors: Di Salvo Marta , Santi Laurini Greta , Motola Domenico , Valpiani Giorgia , Sapigni Ester , Pompilio Adriana , Arzenton Elena , Marra Anna
Published: January 2024

Aims

To assess the extent of off‐label drug use and the occurrence of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) among paediatric patients in Italian hospitals.

Methods

We conducted a 2‐year prospective cohort study across 22 Italian hospital wards from September 2020 to September 2022. As part of the surveillance project, we performed a 6‐month retrieval of all reported ADRs and evaluated all drug prescriptions for their possible off‐label use. Following an educational project on pharmacovigilance addressed to healthcare professionals in participating wards, the same data collection was performed.

Results

Among the 892 patients included in the study, 64% were admitted to paediatric wards and 36% to neonatal wards. Fifty per cent of all drugs prescribed were used off‐label and mainly concerned the administration of a different dose from the one authorized. In neonatal wards, off‐label prescriptions occurred slightly more often, with antibacterials being the most frequently used off‐label drugs. A total of 35 reports of suspected ADRs were collected, five before the educational project and 30 afterwards. Based on product licence, 10 of the total 35 reports concerned at least one off‐label drug use.

Conclusions

The off‐label use of drugs in treating paediatric patients was extensive in Italian hospitals. Regulatory interventions are needed to promote the use of drugs based on the latest available literature and improve ADR reporting on children. Paediatric indications and dosages of the drugs most commonly used in children should be supported by appropriate ad hoc studies.
Should the European Medicines Agency consider ageing a disease?
Authors: Marín Penella Guillermo
Published: January 2024

The classification of ageing as a disease is fundamental to developing new pharmacological strategies that can target said phenomenon. The European Medicines Agency does not do this and maintains a questionable perspective based on the traditional naturalistic argument and the value‐free ideal. An alternative is proposed which, inspired by consequentialism, is committed to considering ageing as a disease in European regulatory contexts as long as the ethical consequences are desirable. Within a realistic framework, I show that making this decision would have moderate positive effects such as increased knowledge about antiageing pharmacology or potential greater chances of completing vital projects. Furthermore, we will see that the main arguments used by critics to show that the negative effects outweigh the positive ones are not sound. Therefore, I conclude that it would be beneficial for the European Medicines Agency to change its position on ageing.
First‐year students' achievement emotions at university: A cluster analytic approach to understand variability in attendance and attainment
Authors: Earl Stephen R. , Bishop Daniel , Miller Kirsty , Davison Ellie , Pickerell Lynn
Published: January 2024

Background

Students' initial experiences at university often shape their attendance and attainment. For some students, university is a positive experience, whereas others seemingly struggle and have more negative emotions. Unearthing distinctions in first‐year students' emotionality may be valuable in understanding their academic engagement and performance.

Aims

The study's aim was to identify distinct profiles of students based on their achievement emotions and explore whether these profiles differed in university attendance and attainment. At least three emotional profiles were hypothesized (positive; moderate; negative) with a positive profile expected to display the highest attendance and attainment.

Sample

Participants were 294 first‐year undergraduate students from a university in the United Kingdom (Mage = 19.33 years; 127 men; 162 women).

Methods

Students completed self‐report measures of eight achievement emotions for general learning. Attendance and attainment data were collected from official records. Hierarchical cluster analysis was performed to profile students on their achievement emotions. Analysis of covariance explored profile differences in attendance and attainment.

Results

Four emotional profiles emerged: positive; moderate; negative; mixed‐valence (both positive and negative activating emotions). The positive and mixed‐valence groups displayed equally high attendance compared to the moderate and negative groups. The positive group obtained higher academic attainment than the mixed‐valence and negative emotion groups, but not the moderate group.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the diverse emotional experiences of first‐year university students and the existence of co‐occurring positive and negative activation emotions. This evidence may be of practical worth to educators in understanding variability in students' emotions, attendance and attainment.
Variability in the age of schooling contributes to the link between literacy and numeracy in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Whitehead Hannah L. , Ball Mary‐Claire , Brice Henry , Wolf Sharon , Kembou Samuel , Ogan Amy , Jasińska Kaja K.
Published: January 2024

Literacy and numeracy are correlated throughout development, however, our understanding of this relation is limited. We explored the predictors of literacy and numeracy covariance (i.e., shared fluency between literacy and numeracy) in children (N = 1167, girls = 563) in rural Côte d'Ivoire, with specific focus on how developmental timing of instruction may relate to covariance. Many Ivorian children experience late enrollment and grade repetition, leading to variation in age‐for‐grade; participants were between grades 1 to 6, but their ages ranged from 5 to 15 (M = 9.19, SD = 2.07). Phonological awareness, numerical magnitude, ordinality, working memory, and inhibitory control were cognitive predictors of covariance. Age‐for‐grade was negatively related to covariance suggesting that covariance is related to timing of instruction.
Therapeutic strategies for aberrant splicing in cancer and genetic disorders
Authors: Shi Wenhua , Tang Jingqun , Xiang Juanjuan
Published: January 2024

Accurate pre‐mRNA splicing is essential for proper protein translation; however, aberrant splicing is commonly observed in the context of cancer and genetic disorders. Notably, in genetic diseases, these splicing abnormalities often play a pivotal role. Substantial challenges persist in accurately identifying and classifying disease‐induced aberrant splicing, as well as in development of targeted therapeutic strategies. In this review, we examine prevalent forms of aberrant splicing and explore potential therapeutic approaches aimed at addressing these splicing‐related diseases. This summary contributes to a deeper understanding of the complexities about aberrant splicing and provide a foundation for the development of effective therapeutic interventions in the field of genetic disorders and cancer.