bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thoughts on China’s Long-Term Care Development Policy
Authors: Wu Xiaolan
Published: November 2024

In the context of an ageing population, a prevalence of chronic diseases, health issues causing further impediments, and the shrinking of family structures, the development of long-term care has become an important social issue. This report takes a systematic look at policy evolution and the development of long-term care in China, to clarify the attributes and fundamental role long-term care plays in the development of elderly care services, as well as the importance of implementing a comprehensive plan with relevant and coherent infrastructure, consolidating the legal environment, policy and associated recommendations, so as to promote the healthy and rapid development of long-term care.
Social Long-Term Care Insurance in Germany
Authors: Fleßa Steffen
Published: November 2024

In 1995, Germany launched a compulsory long-term care insurance to pool the growing financial risk of long-term care of the ageing population. Most of the population is covered by the social long-term care insurance following the same principles as the social health insurances stemming from the Bismarck model of 1883. Both employers and employees contribute to the fund. Potential beneficiaries are grouped into care grades and receive a wide portfolio of financial compensations for their care expenditure. The amount depends on the care grade. The German social long-term care insurance system is constantly reformed to reconcile the conflict between fair coverage of the population and continuously growing expenditure. The underlying problem of an ageing population with increasing demand for care cannot be solved by an insurance but has to be addressed by prevention and health promotion.
Finitistic dimensions over commutative DG-rings
Authors: Bird Isaac , Shaul Liran , Sridhar Prashanth , Williamson Jordan
Published: November 2024

In this paper we study the finitistic dimensions of commutative noetherian non-positive DG-rings with finite amplitude. We prove that any DG-module M of finite flat dimension over such a DG-ring satisfies $${\textrm{proj}\,\textrm{dim}}_A(M) \le \dim (\textrm{H}^0 (A)) - \inf (M)$$

proj

dim

A

(
M
)

≤
dim

(

H
0

(
A
)

)

-
inf

(
M
)

. We further provide explicit constructions of DG-modules with prescribed projective dimension and deduce that the big finitistic projective dimension satisfies the bounds $$\dim (\textrm{H}^0 (A)) - {\text {amp}}(A) \le \textsf{FPD}(A) \le \dim (\textrm{H}^0(A))$$

dim

(

H
0

(
A
)

)

-
amp

(
A
)

≤
FPD

(
A
)

≤
dim

(

H
0

(
A
)

)

. Moreover, we prove that DG-rings exist which achieve either bound. As a direct application, we prove new vanishing results for the derived Hochschild (co)homology of homologically smooth algebras.
CT-defined muscle density as a prognostic factor in multiple myeloma undergoing autologous stem cell therapy: a retrospective single center study
Authors: Surov Alexey , Pönisch Wolfram , Borggrefe Jan , Meyer Hans-Jonas
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Skeletal muscle quality assessment can be performed by cross-sectional imaging. Skeletal muscle density (SMD) identified to be of prognostic relevance of several clinically outcomes in patients with hematological diseases. The purpose of the present study was to establish the effect of SMD on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM).

Methods

All patients with MM were retrospectively analyzed between 2009 and 2019. 127 patients were included into the analysis. Whole-body computed tomography (CT) was used to calculate skeletal muscle index (SMI), SMD, albumin-gauge score and intramuscular adipose tissue content (IMAC).

Results

Overall, 28 patients (22.0%) of the patient sample died. In the discrimination analysis muscle density was higher in non-survivors compared to survivors (mean 30.8 ± 12.5 versus 24.1 ± 15.8, p = 0.03) and IMAC was lower in non-survivors (− 0.66 ± 1.8 versus − 0.25 ± 0.21, p = 0.01). These differences, however, were not demonstrated in the logistic regression analysis, which could not show prognostic relevance for the investigated muscle density parameters on PFS or OS.

Conclusion

CT-defined muscle density parameters have no prognostic relevance on survival in patients with MM undergoing autologous stem cell therapy, which was demonstrated in a comprehensive analysis. These results corroborate previous smaller studies that body composition might have a limited role in this tumor entity.
Age differences in the treatment of lung cancer–a cohort study among 42,000 patients from Germany
Authors: Rischke Nikolaj , Kanbach Josephine , Haug Ulrike
Published: November 2024

Aims

We aimed to describe treatment of lung cancer patients in Germany based on health claims data, focusing particularly on differences by age.

Materials and methods

Using the German Pharmacoepidemiological Research Database (GePaRD, ~ 20% of the German population) we identified lung cancer patients diagnosed in 2015–2018 based on a previously developed algorithm and followed them until death, end of continuous insurance or end of 2020. We described initial treatment patterns after diagnosis and survival, stratified among others by age.

Results

We included 42,629 incident lung cancer patients (58% male). Surgery within three months after diagnosis was performed in 36%, 31%, 29% and 18% of patients aged < 50, 50–69, 70–79 and ≥ 80, respectively. Among patients without surgery, systemic therapy was administered in 77%, 72%, 54% and 25% of patients aged < 50, 50–69, 70–79 and ≥ 80, respectively. Monoclonal antibodies were administered in 15–30% of patients across age groups, and 4% to 15% received protein kinase inhibitors. Overall, 21% of patients remained untreated. In the age groups < 50, 50–69, 70–79 and ≥ 80, this proportions was 9%, 12%, 22% and 48%, respectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study provides a comprehensive overview of the therapy of lung cancer patients in Germany and quantitatively demonstrates the considerable differences between age groups. In terms of clinical cancer registration, the results are useful to estimate the completeness of data for the different types of treatment.
On a space-time implementation of the wave equation using virtual elements
Authors: Wriggers P. , Junker Ph.
Published: November 2024

The virtual element method (VEM) was developed not too long ago, starting with the paper (Beirão-da-Veiga et al. in SIAM J Numer Anal 51:794–812, 2013) related to elasticity in solid mechanics. The virtual element method allows to revisit the construction of different elements, however has so far not applied to space-time formulations for one-dimensional structural elements like strings, trusses and beams. Here we study several VEM elements suitable for space-time formulations that are build upon the Hamilton’s principle. It will be shown that these elements can be easily incorporated in classical finite element codes since they have the same number of unknowns. Furthermore, we show that the property of VEM to deal with non-conforming meshes is of special interest for holistic space time formulation: VEM formulations allow locally varying time discretizations (time increments) in a natural and efficient way.
A strategy for scaling the hardening behavior in finite element modelling of geometrically exact beams
Authors: Gärtner T. , van den Boom S. J. , Weerheijm J. , Sluys L. J.
Published: November 2024

A yield function in the stress resultant space of geometrically exact beams based on the elastoplastic cross-sectional warping problem has been proposed by Herrnböck et al. (Comput Mech, 67(3):723–742, 2021). This plasticity framework has been extended with a hardening tensor to model the kinematic hardening effects in Herrnböck et al. (Comput Mech, 71(1):1–24, 2022). While this framework provides scaling for the yield surface in ideal plasticity, scaling in hardening plasticity has not yet been explored. This paper focuses on the numeric modelling of hardening beams and beam assemblies at different geometric scales. Discretization effects from the introduction of plasticity into the geometrically exact beam model are demonstrated. Furthermore, the effects of scaling are explored, and a method to mitigate undesirable effects in order to achieve a size-agnostic formulation is proposed. Consistent geometric scaling is demonstrated for two alternative scaling approaches of the yield function.
College Students Recognize Characteristics of Autism, but Struggle to Differentiate Between Characteristics of Autism and Other Disabilities
Authors: McMahon Camilla M.
Published: November 2024

The current study evaluates whether college students can identify characteristics of autism as diagnostic for autism, and characteristics of other disabilities as not diagnostic for autism. This study also examines metacognitive awareness of autism knowledge, evaluating whether college students can accurately calibrate their confidence in their beliefs about autistic characteristics. 283 college students completed the Autism Symptomatology Knowledge Assessment (McMahon et al. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders 71:101499, 2020). In this assessment, participants were presented with characteristics of autism and other disabilities and asked to identify which characteristics could be used to diagnose someone with autism. For each characteristic, participants indicated how certain they were in their response. Participants more accurately categorized characteristics of autism, particularly social interaction and communication challenges, as being consistent with an autism diagnosis. Participants had more difficulty identifying that characteristics of other disabilities, especially anxiety, ADHD, and learning disabilities, were not diagnostic for autism. For autistic characteristics, participants’ confidence and accuracy were positively correlated, such that participants who responded accurately were more confident in their response than those who responded inaccurately. For other disability characteristics, confidence and accuracy were typically not correlated or inversely correlated, indicating poor metacognitive awareness. College students confuse autism with other disabilities, which may have important implications in real-world contexts. Furthermore, individuals with poor metacognitive awareness of their autism knowledge may not realize that they are confusing autism with other disabilities, such that they may not seek out additional corrective information about autism.
Optimization of the Combined Use of Z-Sep Plus and EMR-Lipid in QuEChERS Procedure for the Analysis of Eight Pesticides in Real Milk Samples
Authors: Mokhtar Hatem I. , Salama Ghada M. , El Gindy Alaa , Abdel Hameed Eman A.
Published: November 2024

One of the most applied procedures for the determination of trace analytes in complex matrices is QuEChERS (an acronym for Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe). QuEChERS procedures include an extraction step followed by a dispersive solid-phase extraction (dSPE) for analytes cleaning-up from the matrix components. A challenging task in QuEChERS procedures is extracting and determining pesticides from samples of high fat such as milk samples. This challenge induced the innovation of new adsorbents for the clean-up step such as Z-Sep Plus® and EMR-Lipid® to enable removal of fatty matrix components without affecting the recovery of hydrophobic analytes. This work aims to apply experimental design to optimize the combined application of both QuEChERS clean-up adsorbents; Z-Sep Plus® and EMR-Lipid® in addition to other QuEChERS parameters in the determination of eight pesticides: hexachlorocyclohexane, dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, primiphos ethyl, diazinon, malathion, endrin, and dimethoate in milk matrix. This was augmented by optimization of GC–MS/MS and UPLC-MS/MS to detect and determine analytes in extracts. The experimental design of QuEChERS procedure enabled the optimization of Z-Sep Plus®- and EMR-Lipid®-added adsorbent amounts with other method parameters to enable the maximum recovery of analytes. Furthermore, the optimized methods enabled low detection limits of the studied pesticides within a short analysis time (28 min for GC and 12 min for LC methods, respectively). The procedure was validated according to European SANTE/11312/2021 Guideline. Quantitation limit ranged from 1.7 to 3.2 ng/mL for GC–MS/MS method and from 1.7 to 3 ng/mL for UPLC-MS/MS method. Greenness assessment of the methods followed four approaches indicating an excellent value of greenness for the proposed methods. Furthermore, 45 real milk samples collected from the Egyptian market were tested with the developed procedure for the presence of pesticides.
Crystal-Collapse-Induced Synthesis of High-Capacitance LaCoOx/Co-Doped Carbon-Based Supercapacitors
Authors: Deng Zhihao , Wang Yuanbo , Shao Wu , He Jingwen , Sheng Jie , Cen Ronghao , Fu Yufei , Wu Wenjun
Published: November 2024

The development of high-performance, reproducible carbon (C)-based supercapacitors remains a significant challenge because of limited specific capacitance. Herein, we present a novel strategy for fabricating LaCoOx and cobalt (Co)-doped nanoporous C (LaCoOx/Co@ZNC) through the carbonization of Co/Zn-zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) crystals derived from a PVP-Co/Zn/La precursor. The unique ZIF structure effectively disrupted the graphitic C framework, preserved the Co active sites, and enhanced the electrical conductivity. The synergistic interaction between pyridinic nitrogen and Co ions further promoted redox reactions. In addition, the formation of a hierarchical pore structure through zinc sublimation facilitated electrolyte diffusion. The resulting LaCoOx/Co@ZNC exhibited exceptional electrochemical performance, delivering a remarkable specific capacitance of 2,789 F/g at 1 A/g and outstanding cycling stability with 92% capacitance retention after 3,750 cycles. Our findings provide the basis for a promising approach to advancing C-based energy storage technologies.
Morse Predecomposition of an Invariant Set
Authors: Lipiński Michał , Mischaikow Konstantin , Mrozek Marian
Published: November 2024

Motivated by the study of recurrent orbits and dynamics within a Morse set of a Morse decomposition we introduce the concept of Morse predecomposition of an isolated invariant set within the setting of both combinatorial and classical dynamical systems. While Morse decomposition summarizes solely the gradient part of a dynamical system, the developed generalization extends to the recurrent component as well. In particular, a chain recurrent set, which is indecomposable in terms of Morse decomposition, can be represented more finely in the Morse predecomposition framework. This generalization is achieved by forgoing the poset structure inherent to Morse decomposition and relaxing the notion of connection between Morse sets (elements of Morse decomposition) in favor of what we term ’links’. We prove that a Morse decomposition is a special case of Morse predecomposition indexed by a poset. Additionally, we show how a Morse predecomposition may be condensed back to retrieve a Morse decomposition.
An Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Flexible and Wearable Mechanoluminescent Strain Sensor System
Authors: Dong Yan , An Wenzheng , Wang Zihu , Zhang Dongzhi
Published: November 2024

The complex wiring, bulky data collection devices, and difficulty in fast and on-site data interpretation significantly limit the practical application of flexible strain sensors as wearable devices. To tackle these challenges, this work develops an artificial intelligence-assisted, wireless, flexible, and wearable mechanoluminescent strain sensor system (AIFWMLS) by integration of deep learning neural network-based color data processing system (CDPS) with a sandwich-structured flexible mechanoluminescent sensor (SFLC) film. The SFLC film shows remarkable and robust mechanoluminescent performance with a simple structure for easy fabrication. The CDPS system can rapidly and accurately extract and interpret the color of the SFLC film to strain values with auto-correction of errors caused by the varying color temperature, which significantly improves the accuracy of the predicted strain. A smart glove mechanoluminescent sensor system demonstrates the great potential of the AIFWMLS system in human gesture recognition. Moreover, the versatile SFLC film can also serve as a encryption device. The integration of deep learning neural network-based artificial intelligence and SFLC film provides a promising strategy to break the “color to strain value” bottleneck that hinders the practical application of flexible colorimetric strain sensors, which could promote the development of wearable and flexible strain sensors from laboratory research to consumer markets.
Evolution of recycled concrete research: a data-driven scientometric review
Authors: Yao Yunlong , Hong Baoning
Published: November 2024

Recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) is recognized as an environmentally friendly construction material derived from reclaimed concrete components. This paper aims to conduct a comprehensive scientometric analysis of RAC research published between 2000 and 2023 in the Web of Science core database. The study includes analyses of publication trends over time, contributions and collaborations among authors, productivity of institutions and countries, co-citation networks, and keyword co-occurrence patterns. Additionally, the research identifies emerging frontiers in RAC studies. The results are visually presented to provide a holistic overview of the current state of RAC research and future developmental trajectories. The study analyzes publication trends over time, with over 80% of the papers published after 2017, reflecting the growing interest in sustainable construction. Key trends identified include the increasing focus on improving the mechanical properties and durability of RAC, microstructural analysis, and innovative manufacturing techniques. While the field has advanced significantly, challenges remain in areas such as the integration of nanoparticles, biomineralization techniques, carbon capture and utilization, and 3D printing technologies. These challenges underscore the need for continued innovation and exploration. With these advancements, RAC has the potential to play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable construction practices in the future.
The Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty: Statehood and Security in the Face of Anthropogenic Climate Change
Authors: Green Alex , Guilfoyle Douglas
Published: November 2024

On November 9, 2023, Prime Minister Albanese of Australia and then Prime Minister Natano of Tuvalu signed the Australia-Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty in Rarotonga (Falepili Union Treaty or the Treaty). The preamble explains that “the concept of Falepili . . . connotes the traditional values of good neighbourliness, duty of care and mutual respect.” It sets a groundbreaking precedent for Small Island States threatened by rising sea-levels, addressing both State continuity and climate resettlement. Nonetheless, and despite its subsequent entry into force on August 28, 2024, it has not been without controversy in Tuvalu and, to a lesser extent, Australia due to provisions seen by some as substantially infringing Tuvalu's independence in foreign relations or even its sovereignty.
Friendship with the Ancients
Authors: DE CRUZ HELEN
Published: November 2024

Friendship with the ancients is a set of imaginative exercises and engagements with the work of deceased authors that allows us to imagine them as friends. Authors from diverse cultures and times such as Mengzi, Niccolò Machiavelli, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Clare Carlisle have engaged in it. The aim of this article is to defend this practice, showing that friendship with the ancients is a species of philosophical friendship, which confers the unique benefits such friendships offer. It is conducive to epistemic virtue, notably the related virtues of epistemic humility and of relational understanding. When we cultivate friendship with the ancients, we are not learning facts about them, but aim at understanding their views in their full scope in a way that a relationship between friends allows.
“Travel Inter-City like the men do”: Marketing British Rail’s Inter-City in Britain 1964–1979
Authors: Smith Lewis Charles
Published: November 2024

The change in brand from British Railways to British Rail (BR) marked an important moment in the history of Britain’s railway. Running alongside BR’s modernization was a wider process of “professionalization” within the field of marketing. This paper explores how the wider professionalization of marketing impacted BR’s own marketing practices, showing that after 1965 BR opened its doors to new methods, means, and perhaps most importantly, specialists from outside the railway industry. Such marketing efforts helped to frame the railway in terms of individual travelers’ specific economic needs: by 1968 it had effectively segmented its passengers into demographic audiences, and by 1975, BR had a much better understanding of its markets. These individual economies were often highly gendered and saw only mixed success, but ultimately demonstrated an application of research, advertising, and promotion.
Fusion Systems and Rank
$2$
Simple Groups of Lie Type
Authors: van Beek Martin
Published: November 2024

For any prime p and S a p-group isomorphic to a Sylow p-subgroup of a rank

$2$

simple group of Lie type in characteristic p, we determine all saturated fusion systems supported on S up to isomorphism.
Looking Ahead: Nordic and British Perspectives on History of Education
Authors: Göransdotter Rebecka
Published: November 2024

From a Nordic and British perspective, the history of education is a vibrant field of knowledge production. It invites scholars from the humanities and social sciences to investigate the continuities and changes in education over time, as well as Bildung, nurturing, learning, and teaching. By underlining the breadth of the history of education and using Nordic and British examples, I argue that the field is not shrinking but growing. A broader definition of the field expands the field’s scope beyond historical studies of formal schooling. It also enhances the field’s significance and reveals how it has a meaningful role in research policy, and practice.
A simple and effective method for identifying the real sources of pre-pulses in CPA and OPCPA laser systems
Authors: Chen Haidong , Chen Xun , Liu Xingyan , Hu Jiabing , Bai Peile , Gui Jiayan , Yang Xiaojun , Xia Kegui , Wu Fenxiang , Zhang Zongxin , Liu Yanqi , Wang Xinliang , Xu Yi , Leng Yuxin
Published: November 2024

The delay-shift of the pre-pulse may mislead the determination of its origination and cause problems for the temporal contrast improvement of high-peak-power lasers, especially when the corresponding post-pulse is beyond the time window of the measurement device. In this work, an empirical formula is proposed to predict the delay-shift of pre-pulses for the first time. The empirical formula shows that the delay-shift is proportional to the square of the post-pulse’s initial delay, and also the ratio of the third-order dispersion to the group delay dispersion’s square, which intuitively reveals the main cause for the delay-shift and may provide a convenient routing for identifying the real sources of pre-pulses in both chirped-pulse amplification (CPA) and optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification (OPCPA) systems. The empirical formula agrees well with the experimental results both in the CPA and the OPCPA systems. Besides, a numerical simulation is also carried out to further verify the empirical formula.
Can isothermal plane Couette flow in fluid overlying porous layer be linearly unstable?
Authors: Barman N. , Aleria A. , Bera P.
Published: November 2024

The present study aims to examine the temporal linear stability analysis of isothermal plane Couette flow over a porous layer using the two-domain approach. The flow in the porous layer is described by the unsteady Darcy–Brinkman equations, whereas it is characterised by the Navier–Stokes equations in the fluid layer. In contrast to the Darcy model, it is observed that the isothermal plane Couette flow becomes unstable for such a superposed system on the inclusion of the Brinkman term. From the stability analysis, the two-dimensional mode is found to be least stable, and two modes of instability, namely porous mode and mixed mode are obtained under the consideration of the Darcy–Brinkman model along with advection term (DBA model). For Darcy number

$(\delta )=0.01$

, depending on the value of the stress-jump coefficient, mixed mode controls the instability of the system at small values of depth ratio

$(\hat {d})$

, and it disappears for relatively high values of

$\hat {d}$

, where the porous mode dominates. In addition, it has been observed that when

$\hat {d}=0.1$

, the critical mode of instability is found to be mixed for

$\delta >0.02$

and porous for

$\delta \le 0.02$

. The stress-jump coefficient destabilises the flow in terms of energy production through perturbed stresses at the interface. As observed in the case of isothermal plane Poiseuille flow studied by Chang, Chen & Straughan (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 564, 2006, pp. 287–303), here also depth ratio (Darcy number) stabilises (destabilises) the flow. However, this characteristic does not remain valid when the advection term is eliminated from the considered momentum equation. For a certain range of

$\hat {d} (\delta )$

, the destabilising (stabilising) characteristic of the respective parameters are encountered when the fluid mode of instability prevails.
Development of dietary assessment instruments which can take cultural diversity and dietary acculturation into account: eating in Sweden (‘Mat i Sverige’)
Authors: Lentjes Marleen A. H. , Lönnström Sarah , Lobenius Palmér Karin , Alsammarraie Zeinab , Lindroos Anna Karin , Petrelius Sipinen Jessica , Koochek Afsaneh , Brummer Robert Jan , Montgomery Scott
Published: November 2024

Since lack of culture-specific foods in dietary assessment methods may bias reported dietary intake, we identified foods and dishes consumed by residents not born in Sweden and describe consequences for reported foods and nutrient intake using a culturally adapted dietary assessment method. Design consisted of cross-sectional data collection using (semi-)qualitative methods of dietary assessment (and national diet survey instrument RiksmatenFlex) with subsequent longitudinal data collection using quantitative methods for method comparison (December 2020–January 2023). Three community-based research groups were recruited that consisted of mothers born in Sweden, Syria/Iraq, and Somalia, with a median age of 34, 37, and 36 years, respectively. Women born in Syria/Iraq and Somalia who had lived in Sweden for approximately 10 years, reported 78 foods to be added to RiksmatenFlex. In a subsequent study phase, 69% of these foods were reported by around 90% of the ethnic minority groups and contributed to 17% of their reported energy intake. However, differences between the three study groups in median self-reported energy intake remained (Sweden 7.19 MJ, Syria/Iraq 5.54 MJ, and Somalia 5.69 MJ). The groups also showed differences in relative energy contribution from fats and carbohydrates, as well as differences in energy intake from food groups such as bread and sweet snacks. We conclude that a dietary assessment instrument containing culture-specific foods could not resolve group differences in reported energy intake, although these foods provided content validity and contributed 17% of energy intake. The dietary habits collected in this study serve to develop new dietary assessment instruments.
Knowledge bloats, love builds: Paul on how we are (not) to know things
Authors: Rogan Wil
Published: November 2024

Paul's epistemology was famously mapped onto his eschatology by J. Louis Martyn, but it must be mapped also onto his ecclesiology. For Paul, knowing is bound always and indissolubly to living with others. To understand how Paul would have us know things, then, we must focus not on knowledge as such, but on epistemic practices in ecclesial communities. Whereas the Corinthians’ use of wisdom and knowledge made for fragmentation and dissolution in the body of Christ (1 Cor 1–4; 8–10), Paul would have practices with knowledge instantiate communion and care for one another, as is proper for Christ's body. Integral to theological knowing is a sense of what and whom theology is for, a sense being critically explored in recent evaluations of theological education.
Children, juveniles, and crime in early modern London: Old Bailey trials, 1674–1750
Authors: Capp Bernard
Published: November 2024

This article uses the early records of the Old Bailey to examine how the court handled cases involving children and juveniles, whether as offenders, victims or witnesses. It argues that though juvenile courts belong to a later age, the early modern court was already applying different criteria in trying young offenders. It demonstrates how juries used age, gender and related considerations to justify the ‘pious perjury’ that sheltered many from the full rigour of the law. Previous work on children as victims has focused on child-rape and infanticide. This article explores other categories. It argues that in cases of death following a severe beating the court's sympathies lay firmly with the defendants, determined to uphold the authority of employers and parents. Lastly, the article explores cases involving children as witnesses, which raised difficult questions about the admissibility of evidence. Judges had to decide if the youngster was sufficiently mature to give evidence on oath.
AN INVESTIGATION ON NONLINEAR OPTION PRICING BEHAVIOURS THROUGH A NEW FRÉCHET DERIVATIVE-BASED QUADRATURE APPROACH
Authors: GULEN S. , SARI M.
Published: November 2024

Complicated option pricing models attract much attention in financial industries, as they produce relatively better accurate values by taking into account more realistic assumptions such as market liquidity, uncertain volatility and so forth. We propose a new hybrid method to accurately explore the behaviour of the nonlinear pricing model in illiquid markets, which is important in financial risk management. Our method is based on the Newton iteration technique and the Fréchet derivative to linearize the model. The linearized equation is then discretized by a differential quadrature method in space and a quadratic trapezoid rule in time. It is observed through computations that the accurate solutions for the model emerge using very few grid points and time elements, compared with the finite difference method in the literature. Furthermore, this method also helps to avoid consideration of the convergence issues of the Newton approach applied to the nonlinear algebraic system containing many unknowns at each time step if an implicit method is used in time discretization. It is important to note that the Fréchet derivative supports to enhance the convergence order of the proposed iterative scheme.
Comparing Ostrom's design principles to Habraken's open-building framework: disentangling a polycentric built environment
Authors: Horowitz John B.
Published: November 2024

This article compares Habraken's Open-Building framework to Ostrom's design principles. While both frameworks aim to create adaptable and self-governing environments, Ostrom focuses on long-lasting commons governance, while Habraken focuses on designing for change. Unlike Ostrom, Habraken focuses on excludability, implying that private spaces include private and club goods, and public spaces combine public goods and common-pool resources. For Habraken, space is public to people from lower levels who have the right to enter but is private to people from higher levels who can only enter as guests. Habraken also focuses on separating design tasks, such as putting utilities in public spaces accessible from apartment building corridors, to reduce maintenance and repair costs. Utility access from public areas also reduces the need for temporary management and access rights from neighbouring territories, changing many repair and maintenance decisions from collective to private choices. Separating the infill level from the base building gives agents on the lower levels greater ability to adapt and control their own environments. Habraken views the built environment as a self-organizing polycentric system, and an important part of self-organization is appropriately applying themes, patterns, types, and systems. Unlike Ostrom, Habraken doesn't think there are focal action situations.
Highly-efficient (>70%) and Wide-spectral (400–1700 nm) sub-micron-thick InGaAs photodiodes for future high-resolution image sensors
Authors: Geum Dae-Myeong , Lim Jinha , Jang Junho , Ahn Seungyeop , Kim SeongKwang , Shim Joonsup , Kim Bong Ho , Park Juhyuk , Baek Woo Jin , Jeong Jaeyong , Kim SangHyeon
Published: November 2024

This paper demonstrates the novel approach of sub-micron-thick InGaAs broadband photodetectors (PDs) designed for high-resolution imaging from the visible to short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) spectrum. Conventional approaches encounter challenges such as low resolution and crosstalk issues caused by a thick absorption layer (AL). Therefore, we propose a guided-mode resonance (GMR) structure to enhance the quantum efficiency (QE) of the InGaAs PDs in the SWIR region with only sub-micron-thick AL. The TiOx/Au-based GMR structure compensates for the reduced AL thickness, achieving a remarkably high QE (>70%) from 400 to 1700 nm with only a 0.98 μm AL InGaAs PD (defined as 1 μm AL PD). This represents a reduction in thickness by at least 2.5 times compared to previous results while maintaining a high QE. Furthermore, the rapid transit time is highly expected to result in decreased electrical crosstalk. The effectiveness of the GMR structure is evident in its ability to sustain QE even with a reduced AL thickness, simultaneously enhancing the transit time. This breakthrough offers a viable solution for high-resolution and low-noise broadband image sensors.
Whole-exome sequencing reveals novel genomic signatures and potential therapeutic targets during the progression of rectal neuroendocrine neoplasm
Authors: Xu Shi , Zhai Zhi Yong , Zhou Ping , Xue Xiu Fen , Huang Zhao Yu , Li Xia Xi , Yang Gen Hua , Bao Chong Ju , You Li Juan , Cui Xiao Bing , Xia Gui Li , Ou yang Mei Ping , Li Long Fei , Lu Lan , Gong Wei , Pei Xiao Juan , Hu Wei
Published: November 2024

Rectal neuroendocrine neoplasms (rNENs) are among the most frequent gastrointestinal neuroendocrine neoplasms and pose a serious challenge for clinical management. The size of the primary neoplasm is considered to be the most important predictor of disease progression, but the genetic alterations that occur during the progression of rNENs remain unknown. Here, we performed a comprehensive whole-exome sequencing study on 54 tumor-normal paired, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens from patients locally diagnosed with rNENs. Of these, 81.5% (n = 44) were classified as small-sized (≤2 cm) rNENs, while the remainder (18.5%, n = 10) were classified as large-sized (>2 cm) rNEN samples. Comparative analysis revealed marked disparities in the mutational landscape between small- and large-sized rNEN samples, and between large-sized rNEN samples with or without lymph node metastases. The high-confidence driver genes RHPN2, MUC16, and MUC4 were significantly mutated in both small- and large-sized rNEN specimens, whereas mutations in MAN2A1, and BAG2 were only identified in large-sized specimens diagnosed with lymph node metastases. Correspondingly, we observed that the mTOR and MAPK pathways were preferentially enriched in the large-sized rNEN specimens. Signature-based analysis revealed that mutational processes associated with defective DNA base excision repair (SBS30) significantly accumulated in large-sized rNEN samples with lymph node metastases, highlighting the important role of this mutagenic process in promoting rNEN progression. We further found that most rNEN subjects, regardless of tumor size, harbored at least one alteration with targeted therapeutic implications. Taken together, these results elucidate the genetic features associated with tumor size and lymphatic metastasis in rNEN patients, which will deepen our understanding of the genetic changes during rNEN progression and potentially directing improvements in rNEN treatment strategies.
Membrane lipid nanodomains modulate HCN pacemaker channels in nociceptor DRG neurons
Authors: Handlin Lucas J. , Macchi Natalie L. , Dumaire Nicolas L. A. , Salih Lyuba , Lessie Erin N. , McCommis Kyle S. , Moutal Aubin , Dai Gucan
Published: November 2024

Cell membranes consist of heterogeneous lipid nanodomains that influence key cellular processes. Using FRET-based fluorescent assays and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), we find that the dimension of cholesterol-enriched ordered membrane domains (OMD) varies considerably, depending on specific cell types. Particularly, nociceptor dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons exhibit large OMDs. Disruption of OMDs potentiated action potential firing in nociceptor DRG neurons and facilitated the opening of native hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) pacemaker channels. This increased neuronal firing is partially due to an increased open probability and altered gating kinetics of HCN channels. The gating effect on HCN channels is likely due to a direct modulation of their voltage sensors by OMDs. In animal models of neuropathic pain, we observe reduced OMD size and a loss of HCN channel localization within OMDs. Additionally, cholesterol supplementation inhibited HCN channels and reduced neuronal hyperexcitability in pain models. These findings suggest that disturbances in lipid nanodomains play a critical role in regulating HCN channels within nociceptor DRG neurons, influencing pain modulation.
Structural basis for C-degron selectivity across KLHDCX family E3 ubiquitin ligases
Authors: Scott Daniel C. , Chittori Sagar , Purser Nicholas , King Moeko T. , Maiwald Samuel A. , Churion Kelly , Nourse Amanda , Lee Chan , Paulo Joao A. , Miller Darcie J. , Elledge Stephen J. , Harper J. Wade , Kleiger Gary , Schulman Brenda A.
Published: November 2024

Specificity of the ubiquitin-proteasome system depends on E3 ligase-substrate interactions. Many such pairings depend on E3 ligases binding to peptide-like sequences - termed N- or C-degrons - at the termini of substrates. However, our knowledge of structural features distinguishing closely related C-degron substrate-E3 pairings is limited. Here, by systematically comparing ubiquitylation activities towards a suite of common model substrates, and defining interactions by biochemistry, crystallography, and cryo-EM, we reveal principles of C-degron recognition across the KLHDCX family of Cullin-RING ligases (CRLs). First, a motif common across these E3 ligases anchors a substrate’s C-terminus. However, distinct locations of this C-terminus anchor motif in different blades of the KLHDC2, KLHDC3, and KLHDC10 β-propellers establishes distinct relative positioning and molecular environments for substrate C-termini. Second, our structural data show KLHDC3 has a pre-formed pocket establishing preference for an Arg or Gln preceding a C-terminal Gly, whereas conformational malleability contributes to KLHDC10’s recognition of varying features adjacent to substrate C-termini. Finally, additional non-consensus interactions, mediated by C-degron binding grooves and/or by distal propeller surfaces and substrate globular domains, can substantially impact substrate binding and ubiquitylatability. Overall, the data reveal combinatorial mechanisms determining specificity and plasticity of substrate recognition by KLDCX-family C-degron E3 ligases.
Mesoscale neuronal granular trial variability in vivo illustrated by nonlinear recurrent network in silico
Authors: Xiao Guihua , Cai Yeyi , Zhang Yuanlong , Xie Jingyu , Wu Lifan , Xie Hao , Wu Jiamin , Dai Qionghai
Published: November 2024

Large-scale neural recording with single-neuron resolution has revealed the functional complexity of the neural systems. However, even under well-designed task conditions, the cortex-wide network exhibits highly dynamic trial variability, posing challenges to the conventional trial-averaged analysis. To study mesoscale trial variability, we conducted a comparative study between fluorescence imaging of layer-2/3 neurons in vivo and network simulation in silico. We imaged up to 40,000 cortical neurons’ triggered responses by deep brain stimulus (DBS). And we build an in silico network to reproduce the biological phenomena we observed in vivo. We proved the existence of ineluctable trial variability and found it influenced by input amplitude and range. Moreover, we demonstrated that a spatially heterogeneous coding community accounts for more reliable inter-trial coding despite single-unit trial variability. A deeper understanding of trial variability from the perspective of a dynamical system may lead to uncovering intellectual abilities such as parallel coding and creativity.
The impact of 9-azaglycophymine and phenylguanidine derivatives on the proliferation of various breast cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Morgan Ibrahim , Rennert Robert , Berger Robert , Jelača Sanja , Maksimović-Ivanić Danijela , Dunđerović Duško , Mijatović Sanja , Kaluđerović Goran N. , Wessjohann Ludger A.
Published: November 2024

Quinazolinones, particularly 9-azaglycophymines, and closely related derivatives and precursors were tested in vitro against various breast cancer cell lines representing the major types of breast tumors. Among the 49 compounds tested, azaglycophymine derivative 19 with an electron-withdrawing substituent demonstrated the most significant anti-proliferative effects, with IC50 values of around 4 µM. Extensive cell-based investigations revealed that compound 19 induced caspase-dependent apoptosis in HCC1937 (human TNBC), BT-474 (human HER2+/HR+), and 4T1 (mouse TNBC) cells. In contrast, in MDA-MB-468 (human TNBC) and MCF-7 (human HR+) cells, the cell death was induced via a non-apoptotic pathway. The in vivo efficacy of compound 19 was validated using a syngeneic orthotopic 4T1 model in BALB/c mice, resulting in significant reduction of 4T1 breast tumor growth upon intraperitoneal (i.p.) application of doses of 5 or 20 mg/kg. These findings highlight the potential of compound 19 as a promising scaffold for the development of new therapeutic agents for various types of breast cancer and a first structure-activity insight.
Anti-industry beliefs and attitudes mediate the effect of culturally tailored anti-smoking messages on quit intentions among sexual minority women
Authors: Zulkiewicz Brittany A , Chen Jarvis T. , Hanby Elaine P. , Ramanadhan Shoba , Obedin-Maliver Juno , Lunn Mitchell R. , Scout N. F. N. , Gordon Bob , Applegate Julia , Machado Ana , Viswanath Kasisomayajula , Potter Jennifer , Liu Sixiao , Tan Andy S. L.
Published: November 2024

We conducted a longitudinal randomized controlled experiment between September 2021 and May 2022 to evaluate whether anti-tobacco industry beliefs and attitudes mediate the effect of culturally tailored anti-smoking messages on quit intentions among US young adult sexual minority women (SMW) ages 18–30 who smoke. Participants were randomized to view up to a total of 20 tailored versus non-tailored messages over one month. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and one-month follow-up. We fit a structural equation model testing the effect of LGBTQ + community-tailored, anti-smoking messages on quit intentions and mediating roles of anti-industry attitudes and beliefs (n = 966). Anti-industry beliefs (indirect effect size = 0.024, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.040, 0.056]) and attitudes (indirect effect size = 0.034, 95% CI = [0.006, 0.077]) significantly mediated the effect of the tailored condition on quit intentions. These findings suggest that LGBTQ + -tailored cues in anti-smoking messaging may promote quit intentions indirectly through influencing young adult SMW’s beliefs and attitudes about the tobacco industry. Future campaigns to promote quitting among young adult SMW who smoke should consider incorporating themes to change their beliefs and attitudes about the tobacco industry.

Trial registration This study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04812795) on 24/03/2021.
Sirtuin inhibitors reduce intracellular growth of M. tuberculosis in human macrophages via modulation of host cell immunity
Authors: Kalsum Sadaf , Akber Mira , Loreti Marco Giulio , Andersson Blanka , Danielson Eva , Lerm Maria , Brighenti Susanna
Published: November 2024

Host-directed therapies aiming to strengthen the body’s immune system, represent an underexplored opportunity to improve treatment of tuberculosis (TB). We have previously shown in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)-infection models and clinical trials that treatment with the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, phenylbutyrate (PBA), can restore Mtb-induced impairment of antimicrobial responses and improve clinical outcomes in pulmonary TB. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of different groups of HDAC inhibitors to reduce Mtb growth in human immune cells. A panel of 21 selected HDAC inhibitors with different specificities that are known to modulate infection or inflammation was tested using high-content live-cell imaging and analysis. Monocyte-derived macrophages or bulk peripheral blood cells (PBMCs) were infected with the green fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing Mtb strains H37Ra or H37Rv and treated with HDAC inhibitors in the micromolar range in parallel with a combination of the first-line antibiotics, rifampicin, and isoniazid. Host cell viability in HDAC inhibitor treated cell cultures was monitored with Cytotox-red. Seven HDAC inhibitors were identified that reduced Mtb growth in macrophages > 45–75% compared to average 40% for PBA. The most effective compounds were inhibitors of the class III HDAC proteins, the sirtuins. While these compounds may exhibit their effects by improving macrophage function, one of the sirtuin inhibitors, tenovin, was also highly effective in extracellular killing of Mtb bacilli. Antimicrobial synergy testing using checkerboard assays revealed additive effects between selected sirtuin inhibitors and subinhibitory concentrations of rifampicin or isoniazid. A customized macrophage RNA array including 23 genes associated with cytokines, chemokines and inflammation, suggested that Mtb-infected macrophages are differentially modulated by the sirtuin inhibitors as compared to PBA. Altogether, these results demonstrated that sirtuin inhibitors may be further explored as promising host-directed compounds to support immune functions and reduce intracellular growth of Mtb in human cells.