bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyers–Ulam stability of integral equations with infinite delay
Authors: Dragičević Davor , Pituk Mihály
Published: May 2024

Integral equations with infinite delay are considered as functional equations in a Banach space. Two types of Hyers–Ulam stability criteria are established. First, it is shown that a linear autonomous equation is Hyers–Ulam stable if and only if it has no characteristic value with zero real part. Second, it is proved that the Hyers–Ulam stability of a linear autonomous equation is preserved under sufficiently small nonlinear perturbations. The proofs are based on a recently developed decomposition theory of linear integral equations with infinite delay.
Capillary contact points determine beta cell polarity, control secretion and are disrupted in the db/db mouse model of diabetes
Authors: Jevon Dillon , Cottle Louise , Hallahan Nicole , Harwood Richard , Samra Jaswinder S. , Gill Anthony J. , Loudovaris Thomas , Thomas Helen E. , Thorn Peter
Published: May 2024

Aims/hypothesis

Almost all beta cells contact one capillary and insulin granule fusion is targeted to this region. However, there are reports of beta cells contacting more than one capillary. We therefore set out to determine the proportion of beta cells with multiple contacts and the impact of this on cell structure and function.

Methods

We used pancreatic slices in mice and humans to better maintain cell and islet structure than in isolated islets. Cell structure was assayed using immunofluorescence and 3D confocal microscopy. Live-cell two-photon microscopy was used to map granule fusion events in response to glucose stimulation.

Results

We found that 36% and 22% of beta cells in islets from mice and humans, respectively, have separate contact with two capillaries. These contacts establish a distinct form of cell polarity with multiple basal regions. Both capillary contact points are enriched in presynaptic scaffold proteins, and both are a target for insulin granule fusion. Cells with two capillary contact points have a greater capillary contact area and secrete more, with analysis showing that, independent of the number of contact points, increased contact area is correlated with increased granule fusion. Using db/db mice as a model for type 2 diabetes, we observed changes in islet capillary organisation that significantly reduced total islet capillary surface area, and reduced area of capillary contact in single beta cells.

Conclusions/interpretation

Beta cells that contact two capillaries are a significant subpopulation of beta cells within the islet. They have a distinct form of cell polarity and both contact points are specialised for secretion. The larger capillary contact area of cells with two contact points is correlated with increased secretion. In the db/db mouse, changes in capillary structure impact beta cell capillary contact, implying that this is a new factor contributing to disease progression.

Graphical Abstract
Uncertainty in Environmental Micropollutant Modeling
Authors: Ahkola Heidi , Kotamäki Niina , Siivola Eero , Tiira Jussi , Imoscopi Stefano , Riva Matteo , Tezel Ulas , Juntunen Janne
Published: May 2024

Water pollution policies have been enacted across the globe to minimize the environmental risks posed by micropollutants (MPs). For regulative institutions to be able to ensure the realization of environmental objectives, they need information on the environmental fate of MPs. Furthermore, there is an urgent need to further improve environmental decision-making, which heavily relies on scientific data. Use of mathematical and computational modeling in environmental permit processes for water construction activities has increased. Uncertainty of input data considers several steps from sampling and analysis to physico-chemical characteristics of MP. Machine learning (ML) methods are an emerging technique in this field. ML techniques might become more crucial for MP modeling as the amount of data is constantly increasing and the emerging new ML approaches and applications are developed. It seems that both modeling strategies, traditional and ML, use quite similar methods to obtain uncertainties. Process based models cannot consider all known and relevant processes, making the comprehensive estimation of uncertainty challenging. Problems in a comprehensive uncertainty analysis within ML approach are even greater. For both approaches generic and common method seems to be more useful in a practice than those emerging from ab initio. The implementation of the modeling results, including uncertainty and the precautionary principle, should be researched more deeply to achieve a reliable estimation of the effect of an action on the chemical and ecological status of an environment without underestimating or overestimating the risk. The prevailing uncertainties need to be identified and acknowledged and if possible, reduced. This paper provides an overview of different aspects that concern the topic of uncertainty in MP modeling.
Twenty-Four-Month Safety and Effectiveness of TCD-17187 Drug-Coated Balloon for Treatment of Atherosclerotic Lesions in Superficial Femoral and Proximal Popliteal Artery
Authors: Soga Yoshimitsu , Iida Osamu , Seki Shu-Ichi , Kawasaki Daizo , Anzai Hitoshi , Ando Hiroshi , Nakama Tatsuya , Shinozaki Norihiko , Kozuki Amane , Ishihara Masaharu , Urasawa Kazushi , Toi Satoru , Tsujita Hiroaki , Tobita Kazuki , Ogata Kenji , Horie Kazunori , Hayakawa Naoki , Mori Shinsuke , Fujihara Masahiko , Ohki Takao , Yuba Kenichiro , Mano Toshiaki , Ando Kenji , Nakamura Masato ,   The TCD-17187 Japan Investigators, Ikari Yuji , Shinke Toshiro , Saito Shigeru , Shibata Yoshisato , Kishi Koichi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In the present trial, the 24-month safety and effectiveness of the TCD-17187 drug-coated balloon (DCB) for the treatment of atherosclerotic lesions in the superficial femoral artery (SFA) and proximal popliteal artery (PA) were evaluated in Japanese patients.

Methods

This was a prospective, multicenter, core laboratory-adjudicated, single-arm trial. From 2019 to 2020, 121 patients with symptomatic peripheral artery disease were enrolled. The primary effectiveness outcome measure was primary patency. The safety outcome measure was the major adverse event (MAE) rate.

Results

Age was 74.5 ± 7.3 years, and diabetes mellitus was present in 67.5%. Lesion length and reference vessel diameter (RVD) were 106.0 ± 52.6 mm and 5.2 ± 0.8 mm, respectively. Chronic total occlusion (CTO) and bilateral calcification rate (Grade 3 and 4 by peripheral arterial calcium scoring system (PACSS)) were 17.5% and 50.8%, respectively. The 24-month primary patency rate by duplex ultrasound was 71.3%, while freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR) was 87.0%. The MAE rate was 13.2% and all events consisted of CD-TLR. There were no instances of device- or procedure-related deaths major amputations throughout the 24 months. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis revealed significant differences associated with loss of primary patency in the following characteristics: CTO, restenotic lesion and RVD.

Conclusion

This trial confirmed the safety and effectiveness of TCD-17187 DCB for atherosclerotic lesions of the SFA and/or proximal PA for up to 24 months.

Level of Evidence

Level 3, Cohort study.

Clinical Trial Registration: URL: https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr.cgi?function=brows&action=brows&recptno=R000038612&type=summary&language=J:Registration ID: UMIN000034122. Registration Date: September 13, 2018.
Chromothripsis in myeloid malignancies
Authors: Chen Chien-Yuan
Published: May 2024

Chromothripsis refers to massive genomic rearrangements developed during a catastrophic event. In total acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the incidence of chromothripsis ranges from 0 to 6.6%, in cases of complex karyotype AML, the incidence of chromothripsis ranges from 27.3 to 100%, whereas in cases of AML with TP53 mutations, the incidence ranges from 11.1 to 90%. For other types of malignancies, the incidence of chromothripsis also varies, from 0 to 10.5% in myelodysplastic syndrome to up to 61.5% in cases of myelodysplastic syndrome with TP53 mutations.

Chromothripsis is typically associated with complex karyotypes and TP53 mutations, and monosomal karyotypes are associated with the condition. ERG amplifications are frequently noted in cases of chromothripsis, whereas MYC amplifications are not. Moreover, FLT3 and NPM1 mutations are negatively associated with chromothripsis. Chromothripsis typically occurs in older patients with AML with low leukocyte counts and bone marrow blast counts. Rare cases of patients with chromothripsis who received intensive induction chemotherapy revealed low response rates and poor overall prognosis. Signal pathways in chromothripsis typically involve copy number gain and upregulation of oncogene gene sets that promote cancer growth and a concomitant copy number loss and downregulation of gene sets associated with tumor suppression functions.

Patients with chromothripsis showed a trend of lower complete remission rate and worse overall survival in myeloid malignancy. Large-scale studies are required to further elucidate the causes and treatments of the condition.
Dietary carbohydrate quality index and incidence of obesity-related cancers in the “Seguimiento Universidad De Navarra” (SUN) prospective cohort
Authors: Olmedo M. , Santiago S. , Romanos-Nanclares A. , Aramendia-Beitia J. M. , Sanchez-Bayona R. , Bes-Rastrollo M. , Martinez-Gonzalez M. A. , Toledo E.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The quality, rather than the quantity, of carbohydrate intake may play a major role in the etiology of obesity-related cancers (ORCs). We assessed the association between a previously defined carbohydrate quality index (CQI) and the risk of developing ORCs in the “Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra” (SUN) cohort.

Methods

A total of 18,446 Spanish university graduates [mean age 38 years (SD 12 years), 61% women, mean BMI 23.5 kg/m2 (SD 3.5 kg/m2)], with no personal history of cancer, were followed-up. Baseline CQI was assessed summing quintiles of four previously defined criteria: high dietary fiber intake, low glycemic index (GI), high whole-grain: total-grain carbohydrates ratio and high solid carbohydrates: total carbohydrates ratio. Participants were classified into tertiles of their total CQI. Incident ORCs were confirmed by an oncologist using medical records and by querying the National Death Index blindly to dietary exposures.

Results

During a median follow-up of 13.7 years, 269 incident cases of ORC were confirmed. A higher CQI was inversely associated with ORC incidence [multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for the upper (T3) versus the lowest tertile (T1) of 0.68 (95% CI: 0.47–0.96), p for trend = 0.047]. Particularly, higher dietary fiber intake was inversely associated with ORC, HRT3 vs. T1=0.57 (95% CI 0.37–0.88 p for trend = 0.013).

Conclusion

In this prospective Mediterranean cohort, an inverse association between a better global quality of carbohydrate intake and the risk of ORCs was found. Strategies for cancer prevention should promote a higher quality of carbohydrate intake.
Targeting Gαi2 in neutrophils protects from myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Köhler David , Leiss Veronika , Beichert Lukas , Killinger Simon , Grothe Daniela , Kushwaha Ragini , Schröter Agnes , Roslan Anna , Eggstein Claudia , Focken Jule , Granja Tiago , Devanathan Vasudharani , Schittek Birgit , Lukowski Robert , Weigelin Bettina , Rosenberger Peter , Nürnberg Bernd , Beer-Hammer Sandra
Published: May 2024

Neutrophils are not only involved in immune defense against infection but also contribute to the exacerbation of tissue damage after ischemia and reperfusion. We have previously shown that genetic ablation of regulatory Gαi proteins in mice has both protective and deleterious effects on myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (mIRI), depending on which isoform is deleted. To deepen and analyze these findings in more detail the contribution of Gαi2 proteins in resident cardiac vs circulating blood cells for mIRI was first studied in bone marrow chimeras. In fact, the absence of Gαi2 in all blood cells reduced the extent of mIRI (22,9% infarct size of area at risk (AAR) Gnai2−/− → wt vs 44.0% wt → wt; p < 0.001) whereas the absence of Gαi2 in non-hematopoietic cells increased the infarct damage (66.5% wt → Gnai2−/−vs 44.0% wt → wt; p < 0.001). Previously we have reported the impact of platelet Gαi2 for mIRI. Here, we show that infarct size was substantially reduced when Gαi2 signaling was either genetically ablated in neutrophils/macrophages using LysM-driven Cre recombinase (AAR: 17.9% Gnai2fl/fl LysM-Cre+/tg vs 42.0% Gnai2fl/fl; p < 0.01) or selectively blocked with specific antibodies directed against Gαi2 (AAR: 19.0% (anti-Gαi2) vs 49.0% (IgG); p < 0.001). In addition, the number of platelet-neutrophil complexes (PNCs) in the infarcted area were reduced in both, genetically modified (PNCs: 18 (Gnai2fl/fl; LysM-Cre+/tg) vs 31 (Gnai2fl/fl); p < 0.001) and in anti-Gαi2 antibody-treated (PNCs: 9 (anti-Gαi2) vs 33 (IgG); p < 0.001) mice. Of note, significant infarct-limiting effects were achieved with a single anti-Gαi2 antibody challenge immediately prior to vessel reperfusion without affecting bleeding time, heart rate or cellular distribution of neutrophils. Finally, anti-Gαi2 antibody treatment also inhibited transendothelial migration of human neutrophils (25,885 (IgG) vs 13,225 (anti-Gαi2) neutrophils; p < 0.001), collectively suggesting that a therapeutic concept of functional Gαi2 inhibition during thrombolysis and reperfusion in patients with myocardial infarction should be further considered.
Is neoadjuvant chemotherapy necessary for T2N0-1M0 hormone receptor-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery?
Authors: Liu Dandan , Chang Lidan , Hao Qian , Ren Xueting , Liu Peinan , Liu Xingyu , Wei Yumeng , Wang Meng , Wu Hao , Kang Huafeng , Lin Shuai
Published: May 2024

Introduction

For HR-positive/HER2-negative patients who can undergo breast-conserving surgery (BCS) but have a tumor size of 2–5 cm or 1–3 lymph node metastases, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is still controversial.

Methods

Patients with T2N0-1M0 HR-positive/HER2-negative BC who underwent BCS between 2010 and 2017 were selected from the SEER database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to minimize the influence of confounding factors. The overall survival (OS) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) of patients were estimated by Kaplan‒Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard models. Independent prognostic factors were included to construct a nomogram prediction model.

Results

A total of 6475 BC patients were enrolled, of whom 553 received NAC and 5922 received adjuvant chemotherapy (AC). In the T2N0-1M0 population and T2N1M0 subgroup, AC patients before PSM had better OS and BCSS than NAC patients. After PSM, there was no significant difference in OS or BCSS between the two groups. However, in the T2N0M0 subgroup, there was no difference in survival between the AC and NAC groups before and after PSM. Stratified analysis revealed that for complete response (CR) patients, survival was roughly equivalent between the NAC and AC groups. However, the survival of no response (NR) and partial response (PR) patients was significantly worse than that of AC patients. Cox analysis revealed that radiotherapy after BCS was an independent protective factor for OS. NAC is an independent risk factor for NR and PR patients. The nomogram has good prediction efficiency.

Conclusion

NAC before BCS is not necessary for T2N0-1M0 HR-positive/HER2-negative BC patients.
Physiological meaning of bimodal tree growth-climate response patterns
Authors: Büntgen Ulf , Esper Jan
Published: May 2024

Correlation coefficients are widely used to identify and quantify climate signals in proxy archives. Significant relationships between tree-ring chronologies and meteorological measurements are typically applied by dendroclimatologists to distinguish between more or less relevant climate variation for ring formation. While insignificant growth-climate correlations are usually found with cold season months, we argue that weak relationships with high summer temperatures not necessarily disprove their importance for xylogenesis. Here, we use maximum latewood density records from ten treeline sites between northern Scandinavia and southern Spain to demonstrate how monthly growth-climate correlations change from narrow unimodal to wide bimodal seasons when vegetation periods become longer and warmer. Statistically meaningful relationships occur when minimum temperatures exceed ‘biological zero’ at around 5° C. We conclude that the absence of evidence for statistical significance between tree growth and the warmest summer temperatures at Mediterranean sites is no evidence of absence for the physiological importance of high summer temperatures for ring formation. Since correlation should never be confused with causation, statistical values require mechanistic understanding, and different interpretations are needed for insignificant correlations within and outside the growing season.
Normalized solutions to Schrödinger equations in the strongly sublinear regime
Authors: Mederski Jarosław , Schino Jacopo
Published: May 2024

We look for solutions to the Schrödinger equation $$\begin{aligned} -\Delta u + \lambda u = g(u) \quad \text {in } \mathbb {R}^N \end{aligned}$$

-
Δ
u
+
λ
u
=
g

(
u
)

in

R

N

coupled with the mass constraint $$\int _{\mathbb {R}^N}|u|^2\,dx = \rho ^2$$

∫

R

N

|
u
|

2

d
x
=

ρ
2

, with $$N\ge 2$$

N
≥
2

. The behaviour of g at the origin is allowed to be strongly sublinear, i.e., $$\lim _{s\rightarrow 0}g(s)/s = -\infty $$

lim

s
→
0

g

(
s
)

/
s
=
-
∞

, which includes the case $$\begin{aligned} g(s) = \alpha s \ln s^2 + \mu |s|^{p-2} s \end{aligned}$$

g

(
s
)

=
α
s
ln

s
2

+
μ

|
s
|

p
-
2

s

with $$\alpha > 0$$

α
>
0

and $$\mu \in \mathbb {R}$$

μ
∈
R

, $$2 < p \le 2^*$$

2
<
p
≤

2
∗

properly chosen. We consider a family of approximating problems that can be set in $$H^1(\mathbb {R}^N)$$

H
1

(

R

N

)

and the corresponding least-energy solutions, then we prove that such a family of solutions converges to a least-energy one to the original problem. Additionally, under certain assumptions about g that allow us to work in a suitable subspace of $$H^1(\mathbb {R}^N)$$

H
1

(

R

N

)

, we prove the existence of infinitely, many solutions.
Parental mental disorders in patients with comorbid schizophrenia and obsessive–compulsive disorder: a nationwide family-link study
Authors: Hsu Tien-Wei , Tsai Shih-Jen , Bai Ya-Mei , Cheng Chih-Ming , Su Tung-Ping , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Liang Chih-Sung , Chen Mu-Hong
Published: May 2024

Schizophrenia is highly comorbid with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD); both conditions share numerous pathophysiological etiologies. We, thus, examined the risk of mental disorders in the parents of probands with schizophrenia, OCD, or both conditions. Between 2001 and 2011, we enrolled a nationwide cohort of 69,813 patients with schizophrenia, OCD, or both. The control cohort included 698,130 individuals matched for demographics. Poisson regression models were employed to examine the risk of six mental disorders in their parents, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, OCD, alcohol use disorder, and substance use disorder. We stratified patients into schizophrenia-only, OCD-only, and dual-diagnosis groups, and the dual-diagnosis group was further divided into schizophrenia-first, OCD-first, and simultaneously diagnosed groups. Compared with controls, the schizophrenia, OCD, and dual-diagnosis groups had higher risks for the six mental disorders in their parents (range of odds ratio [OR] 1.50–7.83). The sub-analysis of the dual-diagnosis group showed that the schizophrenia-first, OCD-first, and simultaneously diagnosed groups had higher odds for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, and OCD (range of OR 1.64–6.45) in their parents than the control group; the simultaneously diagnosed and OCD-first diagnosed groups had a higher odds of parental substance use disorder, while the schizophrenia-first diagnosed group had a higher odds of parental alcohol use disorder. The interrelationship between OCD and schizophrenia is linked to bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, alcohol use disorder, and substance use disorder. The results have implications for mental health policy and future research.
Acute-to-chronic subdural hematoma: radiographic and clinical progression from acute subdural hematoma
Authors: Liebert Adrian , Hirschmann Emily , Eibl Thomas , Hammer Alexander , Steiner Hans-Herbert , Schebesch Karl-Michael , Ritter Leonard
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The pathogenesis of chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) has not been completely understood. However, different mechanisms can result in space-occupying subdural fluid collections, one pathway can be the transformation of an original trauma-induced acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) into a CSDH. Materials and Methods: All patients with unilateral CSDH, requiring burr hole trephination between 2018 and 2023 were included. The population was distributed into an acute-to-chronic group (group A, n = 41) and into a conventional group (group B, n = 282). Clinical and radiographic parameters were analyzed. In analysis A, changes of parameters after trauma within group A are compared. In analysis B, parameters between the two groups before surgery were correlated. Results: In group A, volume and midline shift increased significantly during the progression from acute-to-chronic (p < 0.001, resp.). Clinical performance (modified Rankin scale, Glasgow Coma Scale) dropped significantly (p = 0.035, p < 0.001, resp.). Median time between trauma with ASDH and surgery for CSDH was 12 days. Patients treated up to the 12th day presented with larger volume of ASDH (p = 0.012). Before burr hole trephination, patients in group A presented with disturbance of consciousness (DOC) more often (p = 0.002), however less commonly with a new motor deficit (p = 0.014). Despite similar midline shift between the groups (p = 0.8), the maximal hematoma width was greater in group B (p < 0.001). Conclusion: If ASDH transforms to CSDH, treatment may become mandatory early due to increase in volume and midline shift. Close monitoring of these patients is crucial since DOC and rapid deterioration is common in this type of SDH.
Maximizing the economic benefit for cable yarding timber harvesting operations by spatially optimizing tree selection
Authors: Sforza Francesco , Starke Michael , Dietsch Patrick , Thür Peter , Lingua Emanuele , Ziesak Martin
Published: May 2024

The efficiency of forest logging operations can be strongly affected by the layout of the harvesting pattern, which is usually based on silvicultural constraints and technical feasibility. Specifically, individual tree volume and the spatial distribution of trees significantly impact the overall harvesting performance. Spatial optimization of tree selection at the forest stand level may improve timber harvest efficiency by maximizing key performance indicators, such as the economic benefit, under given operational and silvicultural constraints. In this study, we applied two harvesting operation-optimization approaches based on integer programming for uphill cable yarding operations in mountain areas, including tree selection and load maximization. The first approach involves tree selection based on single tree harvest, while the second one performs tree selection based on tree clusters harvest per work cycle. As input elements a productivity model, derived by time-motion study with a Mounty MT50-2 and individual tree parameters extracted from high-resolution airborne laser scanning data, were prepared. Single tree information was further rated by financial value, and subsequently combined with the productivity model, allowing a detailed breakdown of operational costs. The results showed that optimizing the tree selection while respecting the allowable cut timber volume established in the harvesting plan can improve the efficiency of forest operations. The cluster approach was shown to be more efficient in terms of economic benefit compared to the actual selection, with an increase of 24.94%. However, the single tree approach resulted in a decrease of economic benefit compared to the actual selection, with a decrease of 22.85%.
Animal health and welfare as a public good: what do the public think?
Authors: Clark B. , Proctor A. , Boaitey A. , Mahon N. , Hanley N. , Holloway L.
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a novel perspective on an evolving policy area. The UK’s withdrawal from the EU has led to the creation of a new Agriculture Act and proposals for significant changes to the way farming subsidies are structured in England. Underpinned by a ‘public money for public goods’ approach, where public goods are those outputs from the farm system which are not rewarded by markets, yet which provide benefits to many members of society. New schemes include the Animal Health and Welfare Pathway, where certain aspects of farm animal health and welfare (FAHW) will be subsidised through government support, raising a much-debated issue in the literature regarding the representation of FAHW as a public good. For policy to be responsive to societal demands and accountable to citizens, understanding public attitudes and preferences towards FAHW as a public good, and how the public might prioritise this in relation to a wider suite of environmental public goods from farming, is important. An online survey of 521 members of the UK public was conducted and analysed with descriptive statistics and ordered logistic regression. Findings reveal low awareness of the changing agricultural policy context, but strong support for public money being used to provide public goods, particularly for FAHW. Findings also indicate a need for more effective public communication of farming and FAHW issues from farming stakeholders to ensure public policy in this domain is responsive and accountable to its citizens. Further work is needed to inform future debates and engagement surrounding FAHW, including through which combination of funding mechanisms (public or private) it is provided.
Inquiring Value: The Pragmatist Turn in Business Ethics
Authors: Rydenfelt Henrik
Published: May 2024

30 years ago, R. Edward Freeman levied an influential challenge against the “separation thesis”, which maintains that ethical and business concerns are distinct and separable. However, achieving an integration of empirical and normative research continues to pose significant challenges. In this article, it is argued that the tradition of philosophical pragmatism offers a pathway to bridge this divide. While Freeman’s critique is rooted in pragmatism, it falls short of fully embracing the pragmatist turn as advocated by Charles S. Peirce and John Dewey, who extended the methodologies of empirical inquiry to ethical issues. Typically, this pragmatist turn has been sidelined due to the formidable objection that norms and values cannot be empirically confirmed nor disconfirmed. This objection is critically examined, arguing that it is largely based on conceptions of science associated with positivism and logical empiricism, effectively challenged by pragmatism. Embracing a pragmatist perspective, it is argued, can substantially enhance both theoretical and empirical research within business ethics. This approach entails integrating observations that pertain to the values, norms and responsibilities of businesses. Conversely, with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of such proposals, observations can help determine which ethical theories and perspectives best accommodate empirical findings. Additionally, pragmatism presents a novel approach to the role of business in society, enabling businesses to engage in democratic processes of inquiry into value.
Low-energy Earth–Moon transfers via Theory of Functional Connections and homotopy
Authors: Campana C. T. , Merisio G. , Topputo F.
Published: May 2024

Numerous missions leverage the weak stability boundary in the Earth–Moon–Sun system to achieve a safe and cost-effective access to the lunar environment. These transfers are envisaged to play a significant role in upcoming missions. This paper proposes a novel method to design low-energy transfers by combining the recent Theory of Functional Connections with a homotopic continuation approach. Planar patched transfer legs within the Earth–Moon and Sun–Earth systems are continued into higher-fidelity models. Eventually, the full Earth–Moon transfer is adjusted to conform to the dynamics of the planar Earth–Moon Sun-perturbed, bi-circular restricted four-body problem. The novelty lies in the avoidance of any propagation during the continuation process and final convergence. This formulation is beneficial when an extensive grid search is performed, automatically generating over 2000 low-energy transfers. Subsequently, these are optimized through a standard direct transcription and multiple shooting algorithm. This work illustrates that two-impulse low-energy transfers modeled in chaotic dynamic environments can be effectively formulated in Theory of Functional Connections, hence simplifying their overall design process. Moreover, its synergy with a homotopic continuation approach is demonstrated.
Assessing the validity of a Parkinson’s care evaluation: the PRIME-NL study
Authors: Gelissen Liza M. Y. , van den Bergh Robin , Talebi Amir H. , Geerlings Angelika D. , Maas Bart R. , Burgler Myrthe M. , Kroeze Yvet , Smink Agnes , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Munneke Marten , Ben-Shlomo Yoav , Darweesh Sirwan K. L.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The PRIME-NL study prospectively evaluates a new integrated and personalized care model for people with parkinsonism, including Parkinson’s disease, in a selected region (PRIME) in the Netherlands. We address the generalizability and sources of selection and confounding bias of the PRIME-NL study by examining baseline and 1-year compliance data.

Methods

First, we assessed regional baseline differences between the PRIME and the usual care (UC) region using healthcare claims data of almost all people with Parkinson’s disease in the Netherlands (the source population). Second, we compared our questionnaire sample to the source population to determine generalizability. Third, we investigated sources of bias by comparing the PRIME and UC questionnaire sample on baseline characteristics and 1-year compliance.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar in the PRIME (n = 1430) and UC (n = 26,250) source populations. The combined questionnaire sample (n = 920) was somewhat younger and had a slightly longer disease duration than the combined source population. Compared to the questionnaire sample in the PRIME region, the UC questionnaire sample was slightly younger, had better cognition, had a longer disease duration, had a higher educational attainment and consumed more alcohol. 1-year compliance of the questionnaire sample was higher in the UC region (96%) than in the PRIME region (92%).

Conclusion

The generalizability of the PRIME-NL study seems to be good, yet we found evidence of some selection bias. This selection bias necessitates the use of advanced statistical methods for the final evaluation of PRIME-NL, such as inverse probability weighting or propensity score matching. The PRIME-NL study provides a unique window into the validity of a large-scale care evaluation for people with a chronic disease, in this case parkinsonism.
Pelagic niche shift by fishes following restorations of a eutrophic lake
Authors: Berthelsen Andreas S. , Søndergaard Martin , Kiljunen Mikko , Eloranta Antti P. , Lauridsen Torben L.
Published: May 2024

Lake restoration by biomanipulation or phosphorus fixation has been commonly applied methods to improve the ecological status of lakes. However, the effects of lake restoration on food-web dynamics are still poorly understood, especially when biomanipulation and nutrient fixation are used simultaneously. This study investigated the combined effects of a 70% fish removal (mainly roach (Rutilus rutilus Linnaeus, 1758) and bream (Abramis brama Linnaeus, 1758) and Phoslock® treatment on fish trophic ecology in Lyngsø (area: 9.6 ha, mean depth: 2.6 m), Denmark. The lake restoration resulted in decreased nutrient levels, increased water clarity, and increased coverage of more structurally complex submerged macrophytes. Following lake restoration, significant changes in diets of the dominant fish species were observed. Stomach content analyses of roach and perch (Perca fluviatilis Linnaeus, 1758) revealed significantly reduced detritus utilization and increased foraging on macrophytes and macrophyte living invertebrates. Results from stable isotope mixing models indicated a shift from littoral benthic to more pelagic food resources by the dominant fish species. Our findings provide further evidence that lake restorations can lead to substantial changes in lake food webs and fish communities, thereby potentially facilitating a shift toward an ecological state resembling the pristine reference state, less influenced by anthropogenic factors.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction of alginate from Ecklonia maxima with and without the addition of alkaline cellulase – factorial and kinetic analysis
Authors: van Sittert Dylan , Lufu Robert , Mapholi Zwonaka , Goosen Neill Jurgens
Published: May 2024

Ultrasound-assisted extraction and enzyme-assisted extraction are two methods that can be employed to recover valuable compounds from seaweeds at milder operating conditions than conventional chemical extraction methods. The aim of the study was to determine whether pH, enzyme addition and extraction temperature significantly impacted extraction of alginate from Ecklonia maxima in the presence of ultrasonication and to model extraction kinetics. Firstly, a 23 factorial experimental design was employed at constant sonication rate, with pH (8 and 10), temperature (50 and 60 °C), and enzyme-to-substrate ratio (E:S 0 and 1 %) as the independent variables. Secondly, extraction kinetics of alginate were investigated at different extraction conditions, through fitting of the Peleg and Power models. Highest extraction for alginate was achieved at pH 10, 60 °C, E:S = 0 % within the first 60 min of extraction. The addition of enzyme improved solubilised dry matter content, but it had a less clear impact on the alginate yield. Both the Peleg (R2 = 0.893 – 0.997) and Power function (R2 = 0.861 – 0.987) models provided good fit to the experimental data and can used to describe extraction kinetics of alginate during combined ultrasound-enzymatic assisted extraction.
Interpersonal Racism and Child Neglect: A Moderated Mediation Model of Psychological Distress and Social Support
Authors: Zedan Heba Faiek
Published: May 2024

The Palestinian minority in Israel has endured sociopolitical stressors (e.g., ethnonational racism, discrimination, oppression, and political violence) throughout the decades, which have adverse psychological and behavioral outcomes. In this study, we examine the association between interpersonal racism (IPR) among Palestinian parents in Israel and their child neglect, the mediating role of psychological distress on this relationship, and the moderating role of perceived social support (PSS) on the mediated effect of psychological distress on this relationship. A systematic sample of 770 parents (500 mothers and 270 fathers) aged 21–66 was recruited to fill out a self-administered questionnaire composed of several instruments. The results indicate that parents’ IPR experiences are associated with an increased risk of child neglect, and this relationship is mediated by psychological distress. Results also show that in low or medium levels of PSS, psychological distress reports in relation to racism exposure are the highest. Yet, surprisingly, this effect strengthens at high levels of PSS. In comparison, the positive effect of psychological distress on child neglect strengthens in lower levels of PSS, showing a protective role of PSS. Finally, PSS moderates the mediation model’s indirect effect; IPR is related to increased psychological distress, and in turn, to a greater risk of child neglect when perceiving low or medium levels of social support. The study underlines the negative consequences of IPR on child neglect and contributes new knowledge to the literature. Longitudinal research is needed to confirm and extend these findings, which could have important clinical implications for treating parents facing racism and potential child neglect.
Image moment-based visual positioning and robust tracking control of ultra-redundant manipulator
Authors: Li Zhongcan , Zhou Yufei , Zhu Mingchao , Chu Yongzhi , Wu Qingwen
Published: May 2024

Image moment features can describe more general target patterns and have good decoupling properties. However, the image moment features that control the camera’s rotation motion around the x-axis and y-axis mainly depend on the target image itself. In this paper, the ultra-redundant manipulator visual positioning and robust tracking control method based on the image moments are advocated.First, six image moment features used to control camera motion around the x-axis and around the y-axis are proposed. And then, a novel method is proposed to use to select image features. For tracking a moving target, a kalman filter combined with adaptive fuzzy sliding mode control method is proposed to achieve tracking control of moving targets, which can estimate changes in image features caused by the target’s motion on-line and compensate for estimation errors. Finally, the experimental system based on Labview-RealTime system and ultra-redundant manipulator is used to verify the real-time performance and practicability of the algorithm. Experimental results are presented to illustrate the validity of the image features and tracking method.
Additive-free synthesis of layer-like Faujasite-type zeolite X
Authors: Koop-Santa C. , Yocupicio-Gaxiola R. I. , Murrieta-Rico Fabian N. , Avalos-Borja M. , Xiao Mufei , Petranovskii V. , Reyes-Serrato A.
Published: May 2024

Faujasite-type zeolite X (FAU-X) with a layered morphology was successfully synthesized by an additive-free route at a crystallization temperature of 90 °C for 24 h. The sample was dried at 70 °C for 40 h (designated FAU) and then calcined at 450 °C for 5 h (designated FAU-450). Both samples were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), which confirmed the formation of the FAU structure. In addition, from the XRD data and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, the Si/Al ratio was determined to be ~ 1.20, which is typical for FAU-X zeolite. Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed that both samples have morphologies corresponding to sheet agglomerate, with FAU-450 having an agglomerate size of 1.41 µm and a sheet thickness of about 0.13 µm. These values are close to the data obtained by transmission electron microscopy, where an agglomerate size of ~ 1.39 µm and a sheet thickness of ~ 0.12 µm were observed. From the Tauc’s plots for FAU and FAU-450, the values of direct and indirect band gaps were determined and found to be close for both samples. In the case of FAU-450, values of 4.35 eV and 3.12 eV were obtained for the direct and indirect transition, respectively. From the TGA/DTA data, it was found that FAU loses mass due to dehydration of the zeolite at temperatures below 350 °C, while the sample is structurally stable up to 700 °C.

Graphical Abstract
One pot synthesis of nanostructured bismuth fluoride tailored for symmetric supercapacitor performance
Authors: Kumari Pooja , Ghosh Sarit K. , Saha Chandan , Mallick Kaushik
Published: May 2024

Organic molecule stabilized face-centered cubic structured bismuth fluoride (BiF3) nanoparticles (NPs), space group: Fm-3 m, were prepared using a wet chemical synthesis route for symmetric supercapacitor application. For freestanding three electrode system, at current density (Cd) 3.3 A.g−1, the material displayed a maximum specific capacitance (SCp) value 717.3 F.g−1. The symmetric device based on BiF3 attained a maximum specific capacity (SC) value of 228.4 mAh.g−1 at 0.06 A.g−1. At the current density of 0.30 A.g−1, the device displayed the energy density (Ed) and power density (Pd) values of 0.17 Wh.kg−1 and 343.7 W.kg−1, respectively. Furthermore, the fabricated symmetric supercapacitor displayed 90% of capacity retention and 95% of coulombic efficiency at 0.12 A.g−1 for 1000 galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) cycles. The symmetric supercapacitor based on BiF3 NPs exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, which could be an appropriate choice for application in different integrated energy storage systems.
Self-compassion Predicts Higher Affective Well-being and Lower Stress Symptoms Through Less Dysfunctional Coping: A Three-wave Longitudinal Study During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Asselmann Eva , Bendau Antonia , Hoffmann Cosma , Ewert Christina
Published: May 2024

This study examined whether self-compassion at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic predicted higher subjective well-being and lower psychopathological symptoms through more functional and less dysfunctional coping. Among 430 adults, self-compassion, coping, life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, and depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms were assessed longitudinally over 6 weeks (from 04/2020 to 07/2020). Structural equation modeling revealed that self-compassion at T1 predicted more functional and less dysfunctional coping at T2 (controlling for coping at T1) and more positive and less negative affect and lower stress symptoms at T3 (controlling for these measures at T1). More functional and less dysfunctional coping at T2 (controlling for coping at T1) predicted higher subjective well-being and lower psychopathological symptoms at T3 (controlling for these measures at T1), with the sole exception that functional coping was not significantly associated with anxiety symptoms. In addition, we found that less dysfunctional coping mediated (a) nearly one-third (30.77%) of the association between higher self-compassion and less negative affect and (b) nearly half (46.15%) of the association between higher self-compassion and lower stress symptoms. These findings support the idea that a self-compassionate attitude prevents dysfunctional thoughts (e.g., self-blame) and behaviors (e.g., substance use) during stressful times, which in turn reduces negative affect and symptoms of stress.
(Nonequilibrium) Dynamics of Diffusion Processes with Non-conservative Drifts
Authors: Garbaczewski Piotr , Żaba Mariusz
Published: May 2024

The nonequilibrium Fokker–Planck dynamics with a non-conservative drift field, in dimension $$N\ge 2$$

N
≥
2

, can be related with the non-Hermitian quantum mechanics in a real scalar potential Vand in a purely imaginary vector potential -iAof real amplitude A (Mazzolo and Monthus in Phys Rev E 107:014101, 2023). Since Fokker–Planck probability density functions may be obtained by means of Feynman’s path integrals, the previous observation points towards a general issue of “magnetically affine” propagators, possibly of quantum origin, in real and Euclidean time. In below we shall follow the $$N=3$$

N
=
3

“magnetic thread”, within which one may keep under a computational control formally and conceptually different implementations of magnetism (or surrogate magnetism) in the dynamics of diffusion processes. We shall focus on interrelations (with due precaution to varied, not evidently compatible, notational conventions) of: (i) the pertinent non-conservatively drifted diffusions, (ii) the classic Brownian motion of charged particles in the (electro)magnetic field, (iii) diffusion processes arising within so-called Euclidean quantum mechanics (which from the outset employs non-Hermitian “magnetic” Hamiltonians), (iv) limitations of the usefulness of the Euclidean map $$\exp (-itH_{quant}) \rightarrow \exp (-tH_{Eucl})$$

exp

(
-
i
t

H

quant

)

→
exp

(
-
t

H

Eucl

)

, regarding the probabilistic significance of inferred (path) integral kernels in the description of diffusion processes.
BOUNDARY-DOMAIN INTEGRAL EQUATIONS FOR VARIABLE-COEFFICIENT HELMHOLTZ BVPs IN 2D
Authors: Ayele Tsegaye G. , Demissie Bizuneh M. , Mikhailov Sergey E.
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we construct boundary-domain integral equations (BDIEs) of the Dirichlet and mixed boundary value problems for a two-dimensional variable-coefficient Helmholtz equation. Using an appropriate parametrix, these problems are reduced to several BDIE systems. It is shown that the BVPs and the formulated BDIE systems are equivalent. Fredholm properties and unique solvability and invertibility of BDIE systems are investigated in appropriate Sobolev spaces.
Effect of twisted rib on the hydrothermal performance and entropy generation behavior in minichannel heat sinks cooled by biologically synthesized Ag/water nanofluid
Authors: Shahsavar Amin , Hasani Mahan , Yıldız Çağatay , Arıcı Müslüm
Published: May 2024

This numerical research study focuses on impacts of using twisted rib geometry on the hydrothermal performance and entropy generation characteristics of biologically synthesized Ag/water nanofluid flowing in heat sink ‌minichannels. To this end, twelve different twisted rib geometries (Case 1 to 12) were designed where the double-row ribs were twisted at the bottom and top portions with twist angles between − 45° and + 45°. To elucidate the cooling performance comprehensively, four different Reynolds numbers (Re = 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000) and four different nanoparticle concentrations ($$ \varphi \hspace{0.17em}$$

φ

= 0%, 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1%) were included in the numerical computations. Results revealed that using twisted ribs significantly smoothen the fluid flow and reduces pressure drop remarkably depending on twist angles, nevertheless, it deteriorates the cooling performance. In Case 12, the convective heat transfer coefficient reduces by up to 15.8% at Re = 2000 and $$ \varphi$$
φ
=1%, compared to the base case. However, pumping power requirement is decreased by 43.9% in this case. Nanoparticle incorporation contributes to enhancement of convective heat transfer coefficient by up to 13.5% at the lowest Re. Frictional entropy generation considerably decreases (up to 31%) when twisted ribs are utilized. However, thermal entropy generation can increase up to 36%, due to ineffective cooling with twisted ribs. This work can be regarded as a first study in the field concerning the effects of top and bottom twist angles on hydrothermal performance and entropy generation in nanofluid-cooled mini-channel heat sinks.
Modern outlook on the source of the 551 AD tsunamigenic earthquake that struck the Phoenician (Lebanon) coast
Authors: Salamon Amos , Omira Rachid , Zohar Motti , Baptista Maria Ana
Published: May 2024

On July 9th, 551 AD, a strong earthquake followed by a noticeable tsunami and another destructive shock hit the littoral zone of Phoenicia, currently Lebanon. The sequence of events was associated with active faults in the region, but the source able to explain both seismic and tsunami effects is still a matter of open debate. This article contributes to unlocking this enigma by providing a modern analysis of the historical accounts of macroseismic effects, earthquake environmental and tsunami effects, and archaeoseismic findings. Here, we conduct seismotectonic research, evaluate the intensities of all the associated effects, and perform coseismic deformation and numerical tsunami modeling to infer the most likely source. Our results suggest that either the thrust system noted as Mount Lebanon Thrust underlying Lebanon and crops out at the seabed offshore of the coast or the intermittent transpressive Tripoli-Batroun-Jounieh-Damour fault zone along the Lebanese coast are the best candidate sources for the 551 AD earthquakes and tsunami. Both of these sources allow us to better explain the macroseismic, morphological and tsunamigenic effects. Remarkably, the notable uplift of the coastal, marine-cut terraces along the Lebanese littoral zone is well reproduced by the coseismic uplift associated with these sources, thus also clarifying the considerable drawback of the sea and limited inundation reported by the historical accounts.