bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Potential of Bifunctional Polybenzoxazines Containing Schiff Bases for Superhydrophobic and Anticorrosion Properties: A Comprehensive Study on Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Madesh Priyanka , Krishnasamy Balaji , Kumarasamy Vasuki , Kannaiah Kasthuri Periyaiay
Published: November 2024

Two series of bifunctional benzoxazines (HC‐benz and HA‐benz) containing Schiff bases (HC and HA) were synthesized through Mannich condensation. The structural confirmation of the Schiff base containing hydroxyl derivatives and benzoxazines was carried out using ATR‐FTIR, HRMS, and 1H‐NMR spectroscopic techniques. The cure behavior and thermal stability were studied using DSC and TGA, respectively. Among the different benzoxazines studied, the HC‐jfm and HA‐jfm benzoxazines exhibited the lowest curing temperature of 216°C and 211°C, respectively. Both poly(HC‐dde) and poly(HA‐dde) showed higher char yield value of 41% at 850°C. The values of LOI and heat resistance index calculated from TGA data infer that these benzoxazines in particular poly(HC‐dde) and poly(HA‐dde) can be conveniently used for self‐extinguishing and heat‐resistant applications which was proved by achieving V0 rating during vertical flammability test. Results from EIS studies showed that poly(HC‐jfm) and poly(HA‐jfm) exhibited corrosion protection efficiency of 99.19% and 99.99%. The value of water contact angle results suggested that all the synthesized polybenzoxazines are hydrophobic in nature, whereas the poly(HC‐ddm) and poly(HA‐ddm) revealed the superhydrophobic behavior with values of 149o and 159o, respectively. The cotton fabric coated with polybenzoxazine exhibits excellent resistance to UV and chemicals. Data from different studies infer that these benzoxazines can be used in the form of coatings for thermally stable, anticorrosive, and superhydrophobic high‐performance applications.
Stability of Stochastic Differential Delay Systems With Integral/Fragment‐Integral Term and Applications
Authors: Hou Xuping , Zong Xiaofeng , Mu Junqi
Published: November 2024

This article investigates the stochastic stability of stochastic differential delay systems (SDDSs) with path information and their applications in consensus control of multi‐agent systems (MASs) based on the path information feedback. Here, the integral path information and fragment‐integral path information are considered, respectively. The mean square (m.s.) and almost sure (a.s.) exponential stability criteria of the SDDSs with path integral information are established respectively according to the two types of path information. It is shown that the fragment‐integral term may work positively for stochastic stability. Moreover, the obtained stochastic stability theorems are applied to design a distributed proportional integral/fragment‐integral control protocol and establish consensus conditions for stochastic MASs under proportional‐integral (PI)‐type controls. Finally, the effectiveness of the results is verified through two simulation examples.
Management Controls for Contributing to the Promotion of Sustainable Development in Public Sector Organizations—Status Quo and Further Research
Authors: Bauer Philumena , Greiling Dorothea
Published: November 2024

The public sector plays a crucial role in enabling sustainable development (SD) as a policymaker, regulator, and through its own public sector organizations (PSOs). In addition to nonfinancial reporting on sustainability initiatives, PSOs must implement sustainability management controls (SMCs) to promote SD. These controls include environmental, social, and governance aspects aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Through a systematic literature review, this study aims to identify the current state of literature on SMCs that promote SD in PSOs. This study addresses this gap in the literature by providing future directions for improving sustainability practices in PSOs. The current state of SMCs is advanced, but lacks a holistic perspective.
Hypothermia Exposes Hidden Epitopes in Influenza A Hemagglutinin and Potentiates the Binding of Neutralizing Antibodies
Authors: Singh Puneet K. , Stan Razvan C.
Published: November 2024

Influenza viruses are an important cause of human morbidity and mortality. Influenza uses hemagglutinin, a trimeric surface protein whose monomers are composed of a head and a stalk domain, for immune evasion and cell entry. As the head domain is under constant antigenic drift, eliciting neutralizing antibodies through vaccination against its evolutionarily more conserved stalk domain is a key goal in the treatment of this infection. It is unknown how temperature affects the formation of hemagglutinin‐antibody complexes, particularly with respect to temperatures relevant for the human respiratory tract. Using molecular dynamics simulations and free energy calculations, we determined that bending of hemagglutinin's head domains, an initial step in the process of cell attachment, is present at hypothermia (36 °C), but not at higher temperatures. These conformational changes lead not only to exposure of new epitopes in its stalk domains, but also to enhanced binding of a neutralizing antibody.
Preparation, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activity of Amino Acids Grafted‐Chitosan/Glycerophosphate Hydrogel
Authors: Dai Su Ping , Zhou Hui Yun , Ren Li Jun , Jiang Shuai Qiang , Wang Yin , Chen Ya Wei , Chen Jun Liang , Park Hyun Jin
Published: November 2024

In this paper, L‐lysine (Lys), L‐glutamic acid (Glu), and L‐glutamine (Gln) ‐grafted chitosan (CS) polymers (AA‐g‐CS) are prepared by a one‐pot method, employing EDC/NHS as coupling agent. Then AA‐g‐CS glycerol phosphate hydrogels (AA‐g‐CS/GP hydrogel) are prepared by physical cross‐linking method. The prepared AA‐g‐CS/GP hydrogel has a dense 3D network structure, which facilitates the loading of drugs. The pore size and wall of hydrogels are affected by amino acid types (Lys, Glu and Gln). Berberine hydrochloride (BBH) is encapsulated in the three‐dimensional network structure of the hydrogel. Escherichia coli (Gram‐negative bacteria, E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram‐positive bacteria, S. aureus) are selected as model bacteria, and the antibacterial properties of BBH@AA‐g‐CS/GP hydrogel are investigated by AGAR drilling method and turbidimetric method. The results show that BBH@AA‐g‐CS/GP hydrogel has a better inhibition effect on S. aureus than that on E. coli. The BBH@AA‐g‐CS/GP hydrogel can achieve long‐term inhibition of E. coli and S. aureus within 24 h. Therefore, AA‐g‐CS/GP hydrogel is an excellent carrier for BBH and is expected to be applied extensively in wound healing, tissue regeneration, and cell culture.
Synthesis of Diones via Visible Light‐Induced Oxidation of α‐Hydroxy Ketone Derivatives
Authors: Zhao Chenyue , Yang Heran , Hu Shuo , Liu Yaqian , Cheng Dongping , Xu Xiaoliang
Published: November 2024

A visible light‐induced oxidation of α‐hydroxy ketone derivatives is reported, which is carried out in the presence of CBrCl3 and ruthenium photocatalyst, and the corresponding diketones are obtained in 49‐95% yields. This reaction has the advantages of moderate to excellent yields, good functional group tolerance, and mild reaction condition. The free radical reaction process was confirmed by the addition of radical scavenger 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidi‐1‐oxy (TEMPO). The fluorescence quenching experiment indicated that CBrCl3 was participated in the oxidation quenching cycle.
Dual Responsive Magnetic DCR3 Nanoparticles: A New Strategy for Efficiently Targeting Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Jia Lina , Dai Yuguo , Xu Yingchen , Sun Hongyan , Gao Han , Hao Haiyang , Wang Luyao , Xu Junjie , Shang Juanjuan , Li Guangming , Xu Ye , Feng Lin
Published: November 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer deaths globally. Unlike traditional molecularly targeted drugs, magnetically controlled drug delivery to micro/nanorobots enhances precision in targeting tumors, improving drug efficiency and minimizing side effects. This study develops a dual‐responsive, magnetically controlled drug delivery system using PEGylated paramagnetic nanoparticles conjugated with decoy receptor 3 (DCR3) antibodies. The clusters demonstrate capabilities for long‐range, magnetically driven control and molecular chemotaxis. Paramagnetic PEGylated particles form vortex‐ and liquid‐like drug moieties within a magnetically controlled system. Vortex‐like nanoparticle clusters exhibit high controllability and countercurrent movement, while liquid‐nanoparticle robot clusters display greater deformability. Upon loading with DCR3 antibodies, the particles navigate along DCR3‐protein gradients in blood and tissue, effectively targeting liver tumor sites in vivo. Clusters of DCR3‐coupled magnetic nanoparticles target cells that highly express DCR3, thereby effectively inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and migration. Compared with conventional nanomedicine, DCR3‐coupled magnetic nanoparticle clusters are capable of delivering controlled drugs over long distances and responding in a molecular‐targeting manner. This research is expected to significantly impact the field of precise tumor drug delivery.
High‐Density Dual Atoms Pairs Coupling for Efficient Electromagnetic Wave Absorbers
Authors: Liang Hongsheng , Hui Shengchong , Zhang Limin , Tao Kai , Chen Qiang , Lu Wei , Wu Hongjing
Published: November 2024

Dual atoms (DAs), characterized by flexible structural tunability and high atomic utilization, hold significant promise for atom‐level coordination engineering. However, the rational design with high‐density heterogeneous DAs pairs to promote electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption performance remains a challenge. In this study, high‐density Ni─Cu pairs coupled DAs absorbers are precisely constructed on a nitrogen‐rich carbon substrate, achieving an impressive metal loading amount of 4.74 wt.%, enabling a huge enhancement of the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of EMW from 0 to 7.8 GHz. Furthermore, the minimum reflection loss (RLmin) is −70.96 dB at a matching thickness of 3.60 mm, corresponding to an absorption of >99.99% of the incident energy. Both experimental results and theoretical calculations indicate that the synergistic effect of coupled Ni─Cu pairs DAs sites results in the transfer of electron‐rich sites from the initial N sites to the Cu sites, which induces a strong asymmetric polarization loss by this redistribution of local charge and significantly improves the EMW absorption performance. This work not only provides a strategy for the preparation of high‐density DA pairs but also demonstrates the role of coupled DA pairs in precisely tuning coordination symmetry at the atomic level.
Pyridine‐Functionalized Organic Molecules in Perovskite Solar Cells: Toward Defects Passivation and Charge Transfer
Authors: Cheng Haoliang , Zang Xufeng , Wang Shunwu , Cai Bin
Published: November 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their high performance and cost‐effective fabrication processes. However, the presence of defects in the bulk and interfaces of perovskite materials can significantly impact the photovoltaic performance and stability of these devices. One approach to addressing these defects is through the use of pyridine‐based organic molecules. Pyridine functional molecules have shown promise in controlling the crystallization process of perovskite films, passivating defects, and enhancing charge carrier transport. These molecules can act as solvents, passivators, and charge transport layers in PSCs, contributing to improved device efficiency and stability. In this review, the use of pyridine‐based organic molecules in PSCs is summarized, highlighting their roles and applications in different aspects of device performance. The interaction mechanisms of various pyridine functional molecules with perovskite materials are discussed, shedding light on the underlying principles governing their effectiveness in enhancing device performance. The challenges and opportunities in the utilization of pyridine functional molecules in PSCs are summarized. In addition, future potential strategies for designing pyridine functional multidentate ligands are promising, emphasizing the importance of understanding the interaction mechanisms and harnessing the unique properties of pyridine‐based organic molecules for improved device performance and stability.
From Poison to Promotor: Spatially Isolated Metal Sites in Supported Rhodium Sulfides as Hydroformylation Catalysts
Authors: Neyyathala Arjun , Fako Edvin , De Sandip , Gashnikova Daria , Maurer Florian , Grunwaldt Jan‐Dierk , Schunk Stephan A. , Hanf Schirin
Published: November 2024

The hydroformylation of alkenes is a cornerstone transformation for the chemical industry, central for both functionalizing and extending the carbon backbone of an alkene. In this study, silica‐supported crystalline rhodium sulfide nanoparticles are explored as heterogeneous catalysts in hydroformylation reactions, and it is found that RhxSy systems (x = 17, y = 15 or x = 2, y = 3 with 1 wt% Rh on SiO2) greatly outperform metallic Rh nanoparticles. These systems prove to be exceptionally competitive when benchmarked against other cutting‐edge catalysts in terms of activity, with Rh17S15/SiO2 being the superior catalyst candidate. By employing local environment descriptors, unsupervised machine learning and density functional theory, the structure‐performance relationships are examined. The results highlight that the presence of S in close proximity to the catalytic site unlocks the tunability of the surface catalytic properties. This allows for the substrate affinity to be modulated, in particular for Rh17S15, with adsorption energies rivalling those of pristine Rh and improved spatial resolution.
Skeletal Editing via Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Nitrene Insertion
Authors: Bhatti Pratibha , Gupta Anjali , Chaudhari Shubham B. , Valmiki Rahul K. , Laha Joydev K. , Manna Srimanta
Published: November 2024

Metal‐nitrenes are valuable reactive intermediates for synthesis and are widely used to construct biologically relevant scaffolds, complexes and functionalized molecules. The ring expansion of cyclic molecules via single‐nitrogen‐atom insertion via nitrene or metal‐nitrenoid intermediates has emerged as a promising modern strategy for driving advantageous nitrogen‐rich compound synthesis. In recent years, the catalytic insertion of a single nitrogen atom into carbocycles, leading to N‐heterocycles, has become an important focus of modern synthetic approaches with applications in medicinal chemistry, materials science, and industry. Catalytic single‐nitrogen‐atom insertions have been increasing in prominence in modern organic synthesis due to their capability to construct high‐value added nitrogen‐containing heterocycles from simple feedstocks. In this review, we will discuss the rapidly growing field of skeletal editing via single‐nitrogen‐atom insertion using transition metal catalysis to access nitrogen‐containing heterocycles, with a focus on nitrogen insertion across a wide spectrum of carbocycles.
SimpleMating: R‐package for prediction and optimization of breeding crosses using genomic selection
Authors: Peixoto Marco Antônio , Amadeu Rodrigo Rampazo , Bhering Leonardo Lopes , Ferrão Luís Felipe V. , Munoz Patrício R. , Resende Márcio F. R.
Published: November 2024

Selecting parents and crosses is a critical step for a successful breeding program. The ability to design crosses with high means that will maintain genetic variation in the population is the goal for long‐term applications. Herein, we describe a new computational package for mate allocation in a breeding program. SimpleMating is a flexible and open‐source R package originally designed to predict and optimize breeding crosses in crops with different reproductive systems and breeding designs. Divided into modules, SimpleMating first estimates the cross performance (criterion), such as mid‐parental value, cross total genetic value, and/or usefulness of a set of crosses. The second module implements an optimization algorithm to maximize a target criterion while minimizing next‐generation inbreeding. The software is flexible, enabling users to specify the desired number of crosses, set maximum and minimum crosses per parent, and define the maximum allowable parent relationship for creating crosses. As an outcome, SimpleMating generates a mating plan from the target parental population using single or multi‐trait criteria. For example, we implemented and tested SimpleMating in a simulated maize breeding program obtained through stochastic simulations. The crosses designed via SimpleMating showed a large genetic mean over time (up to 22% more genetic gain than conventional genomic selection programs, with lesser loss of genetic diversity over time), supporting the use of this tool, as well as the use of data‐driven decisions in breeding programs.
Tensionless AdS3/CFT2 and single trace $$ T\overline{T} $$
Authors: Dei Andrea , Knighton Bob , Naderi Kiarash , Sethi Savdeep
Published: November 2024

Abstract

One of the few cases of AdS/CFT where both sides of the duality are under good control relates tensionless k = 1 strings on AdS3 to a two-dimensional symmetric product CFT. Building on prior observations, we propose an exact duality between string theory on a spacetime which is not asymptotically AdS and a non-conformal field theory. The bulk theory is constructed as a marginal deformation of the k = 1 AdS3 string while the spacetime dual is a single trace $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

-deformed symmetric orbifold theory. As evidence for the duality, we match the one-loop bulk and boundary torus partition functions. This correspondence provides a framework to both learn about quantum gravity beyond AdS and understand how to define physical observables in $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

-deformed field theories.
Input device matters for measures of behaviour in online experiments
Authors: Warburton Matthew , Campagnoli Carlo , Mon-Williams Mark , Mushtaq Faisal , Morehead J. Ryan
Published: November 2024

Studies of perception, cognition, and action increasingly rely on measures derived from the movements of a cursor to investigate how psychological processes unfold over time. This method is one of the most sensitive measures available for remote experiments conducted online, but experimenters have little control over the input device used by participants, typically a mouse or trackpad. These two devices require biomechanically distinct movements to operate, so measures extracted from cursor tracking data may differ between input devices. We investigated this in two online experiments requiring participants to execute goal-directed movements. We identify several measures that are critically influenced by the choice of input device using a kinematic decomposition of the recorded cursor trajectories. Those using a trackpad were slower to acquire targets, mainly attributable to greater times required to initiate movements and click on targets, despite showing greater peak speeds and lower variability in their movements. We believe there is a substantial risk that behavioural disparities caused by the input device used could be misidentified as differences in psychological processes. We urge researchers to collect data on input devices in online experiments and carefully consider and account for the effect they may have on their experimental data.
Comparing epidemiological and clinical data from RPS patients documented in a German cancer registry to a cohort from TARPSWG reference centres
Authors: Neemann Franziska , Jansen Lina , Hermann Silke , Silcher Christian , Hettler Madelaine , Hohenberger Peter , Callegaro Dario , Gronchi Alessandro , Fiore Marco , Miceli Rosalba , Van Coevorden Frits , Van Houdt Winan , Bonvalot Sylvie , Rutkowski Piotr , Skoczylas Jacek , Swallow Carol J. , Gladdy Rebecca , Strauss Dirk C. , Hayes Andrew , Fairweather Mark , Raut Chandrajit P. , Jakob Jens
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Retroperitoneal sarcomas (RPS) are rare, heterogeneous tumours. Treatment recommendations are mainly derived from cohorts treated at reference centres. The applicability of data from cancer registries (CR) is controversial. This work compares CR and TARPSWG (Transatlantic Australasian Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Working Group) data to assess the representativeness of the TARPSWG and the applicability of the CR data.

Methods

TARPSWG cohort has previously been described. The CR Baden-Württemberg cohort includes patients with primary RPS M0 (years 2016–2021, ICD-10 C.49.4/5, C48.x) who underwent surgery within 12 months. Only patients with sarcoma-typical histology codes as used for the German Cancer Society certification system were included. Patient, tumour and therapy factors as well as survival times were compared with Chi2-test, Kaplan Meier curves, and adjusted models.

Results

1000 (TARPSWG) and 364 (CR) patients were included. CR patients were older (median: 64 years vs. 58 years), had more high-grade tumours (FNCLCC 3 48.1% vs. 27.4%, p < 0.0001) and the 5-year survival rate was significantly lower (56.3% vs. 67.9%, p = 0.0015). The proportions of dedifferentiated liposarcoma (CR 37.1% vs. 37.0%) and leiomyosarcoma (CR 20.1% vs. 19.2%), and patterns of recurrence in these most frequent RPS subtypes were similar.

Conclusion

ICD-O/ICD 10 based filters appear to be a valid tool for extracting RPS cases from CR. The similar distribution and biological behavior of distinct RPS subtypes suggests that TARPS-WG are representative, and CR data may be used to verify recommendations derived from reference centre cohorts. Complementary use of data from different sources warrants further investigation in rare cancers.
Effect of subthalamic and nigral deep brain stimulation on speech and voice in Parkinson’s patients
Authors: Müller Frank , Nienstedt Julie Cläre , Buhmann Carsten , Hidding Ute , Gulberti Alessandro , Pötter-Nerger Monika , Pflug Christina
Published: November 2024

Deep brain stimulation can influence the speech and voice quality in Parkinson´s disease (PD). This controlled, randomized, double-blind, cross-over clinical trial was conducted in 15 PD patients with bilateral subthalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) to compare the effects of STN-DBS with combined subthalamic and nigral stimulation (STN + SNr-DBS) and DBS OFF on speech and voice parameters in PD patients. Speech and voice were analyzed subjectively using questionnaires (voice/pronunciation quality VAS, VHI, SHI) and objectively using audio analysis (maximum phonation time, AVQI, mean F0, intonation, syllable rate, reading time). Both stimulation conditions, STN + SNr-DBS and STN-DBS, revealed heterogeneous effects on speech and voice production with a slight beneficial effect on the voice quality of individual patients compared to DBS OFF, but not in the whole group. Small, but not significant effects were seen only in subjective voice quality on the VAS and intonation (both stimulation conditions compared to DBS OFF). No significant changes of the objective speech parameters during the audio analysis could be observed (both stimulation conditions compared to DBS OFF). There were no significant differences between STN + SNr-DBS and STN-DBS in any speech and voice domain. The beneficial effects on speech and voice production are minor in most patients compared to the motor improvements by DBS. Both STN-DBS and STN + SNr-DBS were safe, with comparable effects between both DBS modes, and represent no contraindications from the perspective of the voice specialist.
Development of students’ subject interest at university: analysis of students’ predictors and lecturers’ attitudes towards the characteristics of a successful university
Authors: Wild Steffen , Kunina-Habenicht Olga
Published: November 2024

Longitudinal research on students’ interest in higher education showed that interest declines throughout the study program. While researchers reported numerous factors explaining interest on the student level, research on the relationship between the lecturer level and students’ interest development is considered scarce. This study aimed to analyze the relationships between lecturer level, such as attitudes toward academic success, and at the student level, such as gender, on students’ development of subject interest. To achieve this, two datasets were merged and analyzed: one from a panel study of annual assessments comprising 12,116 measurement points from 5491 cooperative students in Germany, and the other from a survey of the students’ lecturers from 22 different departments, using three-level growth curve modeling. The results showed a decline in subject interest over the study program and showed that academic discipline and gender explained the development of subject interest. However, lecturers’ attitude to academic success was not related to their students’ development of subject interest. These findings confirmed the importance of developing interest programs for students to keep interest high.
The bacterial microbiome and cancer: development, diagnosis, treatment, and future directions
Authors: Qasem Hasnaa H. , El-Sayed Wael M.
Published: November 2024

The term "microbiome" refers to the collection of bacterial species that reside in the human body's tissues. Sometimes, it is used to refer to all microbial entities (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and others) which colonize the human body. It is now generally acknowledged that the microbiome plays a critical role in the host's physiological processes and general well-being. Changes in the structure and/or function of the microbiome (dysbiosis) are linked to the development of many diseases including cancer. The claim that because of their negatively charged membrane, cancer cells are more vulnerable to some bacteria than normal cells and that is how the link between these bacteria and cancer evolved has been refuted. Furthermore, the relationship between the microbiome and cancer is more evident in the emerging field of cancer immunotherapy. In this narrative review, we detailed the correlation between the presence/absence of specific bacterial species and the development, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of some types of cancer including colorectal, lung, breast, and prostate cancer. In addition, we discussed the mechanisms of microbiome–cancer interactions including genotoxin production, the role of free radicals, modification of signaling pathways in host cells, immune modulation, and modulation of drug metabolism by microbiome. Future directions and clinical application of microbiome in the early detection, prognosis, and treatment of cancer emphasizing on the role of fecal transplantation, probiotics, prebiotics, and microbiome biomarkers were also considered.
Business process improvement with AB testing and reinforcement learning: grounded theory-based industry perspectives
Authors: Kurz Aaron Friedrich , Kampik Timotheus , Pufahl Luise , Weber Ingo
Published: November 2024

In order to better facilitate the need for continuous business process improvement, the application of DevOps principles has been proposed. In particular, the AB-BPM methodology applies AB testing—a DevOps practice—and reinforcement learning to increase the speed and quality of business process improvement efforts. In this paper, we provide an industry perspective on this approach, assessing prerequisites, suitability, requirements, risks, and additional aspects of the AB-BPM methodology and supporting tools. Our qualitative study follows the grounded theory research methodology, including 16 semi-structured interviews with BPM practitioners. The main findings indicate: (1) a need for expert control during reinforcement learning-driven experiments in production, (2) the importance of involving the participants and aligning the method culturally with the respective setting, (3) the necessity of an integrated process execution environment, and (4) the long-term potential of the methodology for effective and efficient validation of algorithmically (co-)created business process variants, and their continuous management.
“I Crossed My Own Line, But Here is What I do”: The Moral Transgressions of Sustainable Fashion Consumers and Their Use of Alternating Moral Practices as a Cognitive-Dissonance-Reducing Strategy
Authors: Celik Hafize , Ekici Ahmet
Published: November 2024

Drawing on the notion of ethical subjectivity (Foucault, in Fruchaud, Lorenzini (eds) Discourse and truth and parrēsia. The University of Chicago Press, 1983; Foucault, in Rabinow (ed) Essential works of Foucault 1954–84, The New Press, 1997), cognitive dissonance theory (Festinger, A theory of cognitive dissonance, Stanford University Press, 1957) and transgressive behaviours (Jenks, Transgression, Routledge, 2003), this research addresses the empirical question of how regular consumers of sustainable fashion overcome cognitive dissonance when they transgress their own code of conduct in sustainable fashion consumptionscapes. We utilize a top-down thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, Qual Res Psychol 3:77–101, 2006) of 20 semi-structured existential-phenomenological interviews (Cherrier, in Harrison, Newholm, Shaw (eds) The ethical consumer, SAGE Publications, 2005) and depict a novel, behavioural-level, practice-based cognitive-dissonance-reducing strategy that we term the strategy of alternating moral practices. We demonstrate this dissonance-reducing strategy to be more than just a withdrawal from the value systems attributed to sustainable fashion consumption, either temporary or permanent. Rather, regular consumers of sustainable fashion demonstrate hands-on efforts to find ways of doing that manifest an alternative ethical behaviour. This strategic action is, in turn, held to be enhancing the ethical subjectivities of the consumers. Theoretical discussions of the relationship between these expanded ethical subjectivities and their host consumptionscapes are provided. Using this new approach to understanding transgressive behaviours in the market for sustainable fashion, a range of directions for future research are suggested.
Forecasting Crude Oil Prices Using Reservoir Computing Models
Authors: Kumar Kaushal
Published: November 2024

Accurate forecasting of crude oil prices is crucial for informed financial decision-making. This study presents a cutting-edge Reservoir Computing (RC) model specifically designed for precise crude oil price predictions, outperforming traditional methods such as ARIMA, LSTM, and GRU. Using daily closing prices from major indices spanning January 2010 to December 2023, we conducted a thorough evaluation. The RC model consistently demonstrates superior accuracy and computational efficiency. Quantitative metrics reveal the RC model’s dominance with a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.0094, Mean Squared Error (MSE) of 0.00035, Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of 0.0196, and a notably low Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of $$1.450\%$$

1.450
%

. Additionally, the RC model’s runtime of 1.11 s underscores its computational efficiency, far surpassing ARIMA (493.22 s), LSTM (423.55 s), and GRU (15.73 s). During periods of economic disruption, such as the COVID-19 lockdowns, the RC model effectively captured sharp price fluctuations, highlighting its robust forecasting capability. These findings emphasize the RC model’s potential as a reliable tool for enhancing decision-making processes in the dynamic energy market, particularly for real-time applications such as infectious disease case count forecasting. This study advocates for the broader adoption of Reservoir Computing models to improve predictive accuracy and operational efficiency in energy economics.
Soil erosion assessment in the rainy mountainous areas of the eastern Mediterranean. A case study of the El-Sarout watershed
Authors: Hag Husein Hussam , Kalkha M. , Baladia R. , Al-Sarem A. , Bäumler R. , Sahwan W. , Lucke B.
Published: November 2024

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of soil erosion dynamics in the El-Sarout River Watershed, encompassing 598.15 km2 within the humid mountainous ecosystems of the eastern Mediterranean. Using the Coordination of Information on the Environment (CORINE) model, integrated with Geographic Information Systems and remote sensing, the research evaluates soil erosion susceptibility across varied landscapes. The CORINE model facilitates the creation of thematic maps essential for understanding soil erosion dynamics, including the Potential Soil Erosion Risk (PSER) and Actual Soil Erosion Risk (ASER) maps. PSER, derived from the Soil Erodibility Index, Erosivity Index, and Slope Index, identifies areas at risk under natural conditions. ASER refines this assessment by incorporating the Land Cover Index, which reflects current land use and management practices. Findings reveal that 18.56% (111.01 km2) of the watershed, particularly in the complex terrain of the southwest and north, faces high erosion risk. Another 11.7% (70.0 km2) exhibits moderate risk, while the majority, 69.74% (417.14 km2), experiences low risk. These results align with field observations of erosion features such as rills and gullies. The study emphasizes the complexity of soil erosion processes, highlighting the interaction between rainfall intensity, vegetation cover, and topography. Contrary to common assumptions, areas with dense vegetation may still be highly susceptible to erosion, particularly in steep regions subject to intense rainfall. The study calls the need for further research to establish negative thresholds for influencing factors and to incorporate rainfall intensity indicators into erosion models, aiming to enhance the precision and efficacy of soil conservation strategies.
Farewell Ceremonies: How Older People Practice Death and Bereavement
Authors: Eilenberger Hans-Georg , de Boer Marjolein
Published: November 2024

Later life is often seen as a time of losses. Through the death of loved ones and the dwindling of bodily capacities, older people are increasingly confronted with their own mortality. As losses accrue across different domains, they form a unique existential vantage point. We aim to shed light on this understudied dimension of later life by analysing older people’s everyday practices of sense-making. Drawing on the findings of a qualitative interview study (n=16, aged 65-93), we identify three distinct practices by which older people make sense of death and bereavement: timing, communing, and missing. We conceptualise these practices as “farewell ceremonies,” a term we borrow from Simone de Beauvoir. The “farewell ceremony” describes a period of incremental goodbyes, which characterised the last ten years of Jean-Paul Sartre as well as the death process of Beauvoir’s mother Françoise. Beauvoir captures these farewell ceremonies in her memoirs Adieux: A Farewell to Sartre and A Very Easy Death, which frame our philosophical reflection on practices of timing, communing, and missing. Bringing together Beauvoir’s literary and philosophical work with our empirical findings, we propose an integrated view on death and bereavement in later life that centres the intertwining perspectives of self and other.
Transient and permanent hydrocephalus following resection of brain metastases located in the posterior fossa: incidence, risk factors and the necessity of perioperative external ventricular drainage placement
Authors: Shabo Ehab , Potthoff Anna-Laura , Zeyen Thomas , Layer Julian P. , Ehrentraut Stefan , Scorzin Jasmin , Lehmann Felix , Lehnen Nils Christian , Banat Mohammed , Weller Johannes , Gessler Florian , Paech Daniel , Hamed Motaz , Borger Valeri , Radbruch Alexander , Herrlinger Ulrich , Weinhold Leonie , Vatter Hartmut , Schneider Matthias
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Prophylactic insertion of an external ventricular drainage (EVD) prior to the resection of posterior fossa metastases (PFMs) is a common approach to address postoperative transient and permanent hydrocephalus. However, predicting surgery-related hydrocephalus in the preoperative phase continues to be a challenge. This study aims to analyze the incidence, preoperatively collectable risk factors and necessity of perioperative external ventricular drainage placement after posterior fossa metastasis surgery.

Methods

All patients undergoing surgery for PFMs at the authors’ neuro-oncological center between 2015 and 2021 were identified and assessed for postoperative hydrocephalus occurrence. Tumour volume, edema volume, and 4th ventricle volume were assessed on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans using the IntelliSpace Portal 5.0. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify possible predictors for postoperative hydrocephalus occurrence.

Results

Postoperative hydrocephalus occurred in 14 of the 130 identified PFM patients (11%). Multivariable analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed a 4th -ventricle-to-tumor-volume ratio ≤ 0.02 (OR 33.1, 95% CI 3.8-284.3, p = 0.001), an edema-to- tumor-volume ratio ≤ 0.85 (OR 10.6, 95% CI 2.4–47.4, p = 0.002), an imaging-morphological contact to the 4th ventricle (OR 5, 95% CI 1.4–18, p = 0.013), and multiple intracranial metastases (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1-5.9, p = 0.045) as independent predictors for surgery-related postoperative hydrocephalus occurrence.

Conclusion

The present study identifies preoperatively detectable risk factors for the occurrence of postoperative hydrocephalus following surgery for PFMs. These findings may provide guidance in clinical decision-making regarding prophylactic EVD placement.
Influence of the Cooling Rate on the Wüstite Content in Oxide Layers Formed During High-Temperature Oxidation of Hot-Worked Tool Steel with High Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Balaško Tilen , Batič Barbara Šetina , Burja Jaka
Published: November 2024

The transformation of wüstite (FeO) in the oxide layer formed during high temperature oxidation (600 °C and 700 °C) on hot-worked tool steel was investigated. Wüstite plays an important role in the oxide layer of these steels used for hot working. However, understanding its transformation behavior during cooling is crucial for controlling the final oxide layer structure. Slow cooling rates have a significant influence on the final wüstite content, resulting in inaccurate representations of the composition of the oxide layer at temperatures above 570 °C. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of cooling rate on the wüstite content in the oxide layer after high temperature oxidation. It was found that for hot-worked steel samples oxidized at 700 °C or higher, a cooling rate of more than 1000 °C min−1 is required to suppress the eutectoid transformation and maintain the realistic wüstite content. At lower temperatures (570 °C–600 °C), a cooling rate of more than 100 °C min−1 is required to achieve the wüstite content observed at oxidation temperatures in the oxide layer. Overall, the hematite and magnetite contents also vart with the cooling rate, which is associated with changes in the wüstite content.
Microalgae as a source of carotenoids in foods, obstacles and solutions
Authors: Mostafa Heba Sayed , Hashem Marwa Mahmoud
Published: November 2024

Recently, microalgae have attracted attention as a natural source of healthier bioactive molecules, especially carotenoids, because human bodies lack the ability to synthesize them, and their intake is necessary for human nutrition. Microalgae can produce various classes of these natural products, distinguished by their health benefits. In food sectors, microalgae are available as whole cells or as a source for extracting a specific carotenoid. This review summarizes recent knowledge of the biosynthesis pathway and the factors affecting carotenoid content, as well as strategies for increasing microalgae synthesis of various carotenoids. New uses of carotenoid-rich microalgae in food are highlighted, along with the main challenges and suggested solutions for using microalgal-carotenoids in the foodstuff. Carotenoids, particularly β-carotene and astaxanthin, face significant challenges in terms of bioavailability and stability when included in foods. Although many solutions were proposed, more research is required to determine the stability of other carotenoids under various food processing techniques. Furthermore, future studies should focus on improving bioavailability and accessibility after digestion in order to benefit from all added carotenoids. Modern technology and a fast-paced lifestyle necessitate the inclusion and acceptance of microalgal carotenoids, particularly for the most vulnerable populations, children, and pregnant women.
Lev Karsavin’s Dostoevsky
Authors: Dobieszewski Janusz
Published: November 2024

The thought of Lev Karsavin—like all representatives of the Russian religious and philosophical renaissance—is deeply rooted in the work and ideas of Fyodor Dostoyevsky. However, instead of focusing on the broad relationship between the two thinkers, we focus here on a specific aspect of their connection: two significant articles by Karsavin on Dostoevsky. These are: Dostoevsky and Catholicism (1922) and—or rather primarily—Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov as an ideologist of love (1921). After a short presentation of the first text, I will try to show the debatable, controversial, but also inspiring and even daring nature of the second text.
The price elasticity of natural gas demand of small consumers in Germany during the energy crisis 2022
Authors: Jamissen David , Vatne Johanne , Holz Franziska , Neumann Anne
Published: November 2024

Understanding how consumers respond to turbulent market conditions is crucial for planning security of natural gas supply. This paper estimates the price elasticity of demand of small consumers in Germany in the period with both high price fluctuations and a fear of natural gas shortage in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Using granular data between 2018 and 2023, we estimate an Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) time series cointegrating model. We find a price elasticity of demand for natural gas of -0.01 for wholesale prices and -0.04 for retail prices. Additionally, we quantify the effects of weather conditions and public awareness on the energy crisis. The results suggest i) that extreme price changes would be required to trigger short-term demand adjustments, and ii) demonstrate the importance of public attention on the crisis situation.
Ecological Threats and Cultural Systems
Authors: Shapouri Soheil , Rafiee Yasaman
Published: November 2024

Considering the role of human interactions in infectious disease outbreaks and cooperation in mitigating natural disasters consequences, ecological threats to human survival have been among proposed drivers of collectivism. Utilizing established and novel measures of parasite stress and natural disasters, we investigated their association with collectivism in a large sample of countries (N = 188). Linear mixed-effect models indicated that after controlling for national wealth, neither natural disasters nor infectious disease can predict collectivism scores. Null results were consistent across different measures of threats, suggesting that previous findings can be attributed to small, non-representative samples of cultures. When universal patterns are a major concern, drawing conclusions based on small, nonrepresentative subsets of cultures risks promoting unreliable findings. Future cross-cultural research will benefit from data-driven exploratory methods to uncover factors previously unexamined in the theory-driven studies of collectivism.
Pathways to Integration and Language Acquisition: A Comparative Analysis of Refugee Children’s Social Integration and Foreign Language Difficulty in Lebanon and Australia
Authors: Hammoud Mohammad
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the relationship between refugee children’s social integration and foreign language difficulty. It also examines how different legal settlements and their accompanying education paradigms impact refugee students’ integration and language difficulties in Lebanon and Australia, where short- and long-term legal settlements are provided. The study is based on a longitudinal survey data collected between the academic years 2018 and 2021, with 1565 observations. Our findings reveal that refugees who felt more welcome in the host country were less likely to have high language difficulties. Conversely, refugees who faced high language difficulties were less likely to feel welcome in the host country. Despite the aforementioned, refugees in Lebanon felt less welcomed in their host country, even though they faced lower language difficulties. Therefore, our study reveals that the successful integration of refugee students in the host country requires comprehensive efforts at various levels. This comprehensive approach includes creating inclusive educational environments and equitable policies that promote a sense of belonging while also addressing language comprehension challenges among refugee students.
The role of C1orf50 in breast cancer progression and prognosis
Authors: Otani Yusuke , Tanaka Atsushi , Maekawa Masaki , Peña Tirso , Rogachevskaya Anna , Ando Teruhiko , Itano Takuto , Katayama Haruyoshi , Nakata Eiji , Ozaki Toshifumi , Toyooka Shinichi , Doihara Hiroyoshi , Roehrl Michael H. , Fujimura Atsushi
Published: November 2024

Although the prognosis of breast cancer has significantly improved compared to other types of cancer, there are still some patients who expire due to recurrence or metastasis. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a method to identify patients with poor prognosis at the early stages of cancer. In the process of discovering new prognostic markers from genes of unknown function, we found that the expression of C1orf50 determines the prognosis of breast cancer patients, especially for those with Luminal A breast cancer. This study aims to elucidate the molecular role of C1orf50 in breast cancer progression. Bioinformatic analyses of the breast cancer dataset of TCGA, and in vitro analyses, reveal the molecular pathways influenced by C1orf50 expression. C1orf50 knockdown suppressed the cell cycle of breast cancer cells and weakened their ability to maintain the undifferentiated state and self-renewal capacity. Interestingly, upregulation of C1orf50 increased sensitivity to CDK4/6 inhibition. In addition, C1orf50 was found to be more abundant in breast cancer cells than in normal breast epithelium, suggesting C1orf50’s involvement in breast cancer pathogenesis. Furthermore, the mRNA expression level of C1orf50 was positively correlated with the expression of PD-L1 and its related factors. These results suggest that C1orf50 promotes breast cancer progression through cell cycle upregulation, maintenance of cancer stemness, and immune evasion mechanisms. Our study uncovers the biological functions of C1orf50 in Luminal breast cancer progression, a finding not previously reported in any type of cancer.
Does Domestic Concentration Cancel the Potentially Beneficial Effect of International Competition on Firm Productivity? Evidence from Manufacturing Firms in Cameroon
Authors: Fambeu Ariel Herbert , Yomi Patricia Tchawa
Published: November 2024

Using manufacturing firm-level data from the World Bank Enterprise Surveys (WBES) in 2009 and 2016 and Cameroon’s general enterprise censuses, this paper empirically investigates the joint effect of domestic concentration and international competition on productivity. Instrumental variable estimates suggest that exports improve the productivity of firms operating only in industries where concentration is very low. Moreover, participation in the international market has no effect on the productivity of firms operating in the moderately and highly concentrated sectors. Thus, although concentration has no direct effect on productivity, it nevertheless reduces the positive effect of international competition (through exports). This study not only serves as a reference for future investigations but also carries significant theoretical and empirical implications.