bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Business plan competitions and nascent entrepreneurs: a systematic literature review and research agenda
Authors: Dana Léo-Paul , Crocco Edoardo , Culasso Francesca , Giacosa Elisa
Published: March 2023

Business plan competitions (BPCs) are opportunities for nascent entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas and obtain resources to fund their entrepreneurial future. They are also an important tool for policymakers and higher education institutions to stimulate entrepreneurial activity and support new entrepreneurial ventures from conceptual and financial standpoints. Academic research has kept pace with the rising interest in BPCs over the past decades, especially regarding their implications for entrepreneurial education. Literature on BPCs has grown slowly but steadily over the years, offering important insights that entrepreneurship scholars must collectively evaluate to inform theory and practice. Yet, no attempt has been made to perform a systematic review and synthesis of BPC literature. Therefore, to highlight emerging trends and draw pathways to future research, the authors adopted a systematic approach to synthesize the literature on BPCs. The authors performed a systematic literature review on 58 articles on BPCs. Several themes emerge from the BPC literature, including BPCs investigated as prime opportunities to develop entrepreneurial education, the effects of BPC participation on future entrepreneurial activity, and several attempts to frame an ideal BPC blueprint for future contests. However, several research gaps emerge, especially regarding the lack of theoretical underpinnings in the literature stream and the predominance of exploratory research. This paper provides guidance for practice by presenting a roadmap for future research on BPCs drawing from the sample reviewed. From a theoretical perspective, the study offers several prompts for further research on the topic through a concept map and a structured research agenda.
Inflammatory Cytokines Associated with Multiple Sclerosis Directly Induce Alterations of Neuronal Cytoarchitecture in Human Neurons
Authors: Meyer-Arndt Lil , Kerkering Janis , Kuehl Tess , Infante Ana Gil , Paul Friedemann , Rosiewicz Kamil Sebastian , Siffrin Volker , Alisch Marlen
Published: March 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) coined by inflammation and neurodegeneration. The actual cause of the neurodegenerative component of the disease is however unclear. We investigated here the direct and differential effects of inflammatory mediators on human neurons. We used embryonic stem cell-derived (H9) human neuronal stem cells (hNSC) to generate neuronal cultures. Neurons were subsequently treated with tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interferon gamma (IFNγ), granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin 17A (IL-17A) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) separately or in combination. Immunofluorescence staining and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were used to assess cytokine receptor expression, cell integrity and transcriptomic changes upon treatment. H9-hNSC-derived neurons expressed cytokine receptors for IFNγ, TNFα, IL-10 and IL-17A. Neuronal exposure to these cytokines resulted in differential effects on neurite integrity parameters with a clear decrease for TNFα- and GM-CSF-treated neurons. The combinatorial treatment with IL-17A/IFNγ or IL-17A/TNFα induced a more pronounced effect on neurite integrity. Furthermore, combinatorial treatments with two cytokines induced several key signalling pathways, i.e. NFκB-, hedgehog and oxidative stress signalling, stronger than any of the cytokines alone. This work supports the idea of immune-neuronal crosstalk and the need to focus on the potential role of inflammatory cytokines on neuronal cytoarchitecture and function.

Graphical Abstract
The Arc Rotational Characteristics Inside a Plasma Torch with an External Magnetic Field
Authors: Perambadur Jyothikrishna , Shukla Pradeep , Klimenko Alexander Y. , Ramachandran K. , Rudolph Victor
Published: March 2023

This work investigates the dynamic behavior of an arc column in a DC thermal plasma torch using a three-dimensional transient model. The model assumes an axial magnetic field of constant magnitude inside the plasma torch domain which mimics a magnetic field that is generated either by a solenoid or a permanent magnet encircling the anode. Under the influence of a strong external magnetic field, the plasma arc swirls inside the torch with one end of the arc sweeping the inner surface of the anode while the other end pivoted at the cathode tip. The dynamic variation of the electric arc and its structure is analyzed by simulating a special case with a step-change in magnetic field strength. The transient simulation traces the formation of a helical arc structure as soon as the magnetic field is imposed. The arc column is seen to be axially constricted and radially diffused in the presence of a strong magnetic field. The impact of the magnetic field is also reflected in the arc attachment gap, which is the axial distance between cathode and anode attachments. The influence of magnetic field strength, arc current and gas flow rate on arc rotational frequency, voltage drop, and temperature distribution are analyzed.
Characteristics of COVID-19 vaccinated and unvaccinated patients admitted to Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
Authors: Paggi Riccardo , Barbiero Anna , Manciulli Tommaso , Miftode Andreea , Tilli Marta , Lagi Filippo , Mencarini Jessica , Borchi Beatrice , Pozzi Marco , Bartalesi Filippo , Spinicci Michele , Martini Lorenzo , Coppola Alessandra , Nozzoli Carlo , Peris Adriano , Bonizzoli Manuela , Pieralli Filippo , Bartoloni Alessandro , Zammarchi Lorenzo
Published: March 2023

More than 11.5 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered around the world. Although vaccine effectiveness for severe infections is reported to be 89.0%, breakthrough infections are common and may lead to severe outcome in fragile population. We conducted a real-world observational study on 420 COVID-19 admitted patients from July 2021 to January 2022 in a tertiary level Italian hospital. We collected patient’s vaccination and SARS-CoV-2 serological status, SARS-CoV-2 treatments, oxygen supports, intensive (ICU) and subintensive (sub-ICU) care unit admissions, length of staying (LoS) and in-hospital mortality. One-hundred-seventy-two vaccinated and 248 unvaccinated patients were admitted during the study period. Vaccinated group (Vg) had a significantly more elevated Charlson Comorbidity Index than Unvaccinated group (UVg), and no statistical differences were found in terms of in-hospital mortality, LoS or ICU and sub-ICU admissions. Among Vg, anti-S antibodies were detected in 86.18% of patients (seropositives). Vaccinated seronegative patients’ in-hospital mortality was significantly higher than vaccinated seropositive patients (33.33% vs 10.69%, p = 0.0055): in particular, mortality rate in 45–69 years old population was higher in vaccinated seronegative group, and comparable in patients ≥ 70 years old. No differences in terms of outcome were registered between Vg and UVg, taking into account that Vg was considerably older and with more comorbidities. In line with other recent observations, higher mortality rate was evidenced for seronegative vaccinated patients. Primary prophylaxis and early treatments result to be necessary, especially for older and immunosuppressed populations.
Hispanic/Latinos and non-Hispanic whites’ childhood cancer survivors and parents: a dyadic analysis of coping resources and mental health
Authors: Ochoa Carol Y. , Cho Junhan , Miller Kimberly A. , Baezconde-Garbanati Lourdes , Chan Randall Y. , Farias Albert J. , Milam Joel E.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

While limited, dyadic research demonstrates the interdependent relationship between the health and adjustment after treatment between cancer survivors and caregivers. We examined interrelationships between coping resources and mental health among childhood cancer survivors (CCS)–parent dyads.

Methods

One hundred sixty CCS-parent dyads from the Project Forward pilot study completed validated questions assessing social support, religiosity, spirituality, depressive symptoms, and perceived stress. Bidirectional associations were identified with path analysis utilizing the actor-partner interdependence model (APIM). We used a multigroup approach to test for the moderating effects by Hispanic ethnicity on these relationships.

Results

Mean age of CCS was 20 years old, 51% female, 30% diagnosed with leukemia, and mean of 7 years from diagnosis. The mean age of parents was 49 years old and 89% were mothers. For both CCS and parents, perceived social support was inversely associated with their depressive symptoms and perceived stress (e.g., actor effects). Parents’ social support was not significantly associated with CCS’s depressive symptoms and stress. However, higher perceived social support by the CCS was inversely associated with parents’ depressive symptoms (β =  − 0.202, p < 0.01) and perceived stress (β =  − 0.164, p < 0.05) (e.g., partner effects). Additional actor effects were observed between spirituality, religiosity, and depressive systems when we explored the moderating effects of Hispanic ethnicity.

Conclusion

Partner effects of social support among CCS-parent dyads may influence psychological distress.

Implication for Cancer Survivors

Our findings on parent–child associations between social support and psychosocial well-being imply that survivorship care can be enhanced when the social support needs of both survivors and their parents are addressed together.
“I want it all”: exploring the relationship between entrepreneurs’ satisfaction with work–life balance, well-being, flow and firm growth
Authors: Drnovšek Mateja , Slavec Alenka , Aleksić Darija
Published: March 2023

Drawing from the conservation of resources theory, we explore how two personal resources (satisfaction with work–life balance and experience of flow at work) contribute to two important outcomes in entrepreneurship: entrepreneurs’ subjective well-being and firm growth. Although previous research has emphasized the importance of personal factors for firm growth and explored a variety of factors affecting entrepreneurs’ subjective well-being, little attention has been paid to the role of satisfaction with work–life balance as a critical personal resource for entrepreneurs. With this study, we find that entrepreneurs’ satisfaction with work–life balance is positively associated with subjective well-being, which, in turn, mediates the relationship between satisfaction with work–life balance and firm growth. Our study also shows that experiencing flow at work accentuates the relationship between satisfaction with work–life balance and subjective well-being. Based on our findings, we offer implications for practicing entrepreneurs in terms of how to achieve higher levels of well-being and better firm growth. Specifically, we emphasize the benefits of achieving satisfaction with work–life balance, as this is important for an entrepreneur’s subjective well-being and has an indirect impact on firm growth. Stakeholders in entrepreneurial ecosystems should embrace subjective well-being as an important indicator of firm outcomes alongside traditional economic measures.
Pathophysiological Mechanisms Involved in Overactive Bladder/Detrusor Overactivity
Authors: Chess-Williams Russ , Sellers Donna J
Published: March 2023

Purpose of Review

To examine the latest published findings on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the development of overactive bladder (OAB) and detrusor overactivity (DO), and to identify common pathways linked to the risk factors associated with these conditions.

Recent Findings

Evidence is accumulating, both clinical and experimental, that many of the factors linked to the development of OAB/DO, including ageing, bladder outlet obstruction, psychological stress, and obesity are associated with reduced bladder blood flow. This induces local tissue inflammation with cytokine release and enhanced oxidative stress, ultimately resulting in altered detrusor sensitivity, detrusor hypertrophy and fibrosis, together with afferent hypersensitivity. These mechanisms would explain the symptoms of urgency and frequency observed in OAB patients. Although not a characteristic of OAB, undetected low level bacterial infections of the bladder have been proposed to explain the OAB symptoms in patients resistant to standard treatments. In this condition, inflammatory responses without reductions in perfusion activate the inflammatory pathways.

Evidence is mounting that poor bladder perfusion and local inflammatory responses are central mechanisms involved in the development of OAB/DO. As our understanding of these pathophysiological mechanisms advances, new avenues for drug development will be identified and ultimately treatment may become more individualized depending on the particular pathway involved and the drugs available.
Towards a New Classification of Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Elliott Perry
Published: March 2023

Purpose of Review

The aim of this paper is to briefly summarise the clinical approach to disease notation for cardiomyopathies and to highlight its limitations with respect to the integration of new knowledge about aetiology.

Recent Findings

The paper uses the recently advocated concept of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy as an example of the limitations of current classification systems.

At present, there is no single classification system that meets the needs of all potential users, whether they are basic scientists, clinicians, patients or families. The classical cardiomyopathy subtypes still have utility, but future disease notation needs to be modified to take into account the new and more complete phenotypes and aetiologies.
Diagnostic value of T1- and T2-weighted 3-Tesla MRI for postmortem detection and age stage classification of myocardial infarction
Authors: Gascho Dominic , von Allmen Alexandre , Landsmann Anna , Hünermund Tobias , Tappero Carlo , Thali Michael J. , Deininger-Czermak Eva
Published: March 2023

The aims of this study are to retrospectively evaluate the diagnostic value of T1- and T2-weighted 3-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for postmortem detection of myocardial infarction (MI) in terms of sensitivity and specificity and to compare the MRI appearance of the infarct area with age stages. Postmortem MRI examinations (n = 88) were retrospectively reviewed for the presence or absence of MI by two raters blinded to the autopsy results. The sensitivity and specificity were calculated using the autopsy results as the gold standard. A third rater, who was not blinded to the autopsy findings, reviewed all cases in which MI was detected at autopsy for MRI appearance (hypointensity, isointensity, hyperintensity) of the infarct area and the surrounding zone. Age stages (peracute, acute, subacute, chronic) were assigned based on the literature and compared with the age stages reported in the autopsy reports. The interrater reliability between the two raters was substantial (κ = 0.78). Sensitivity was 52.94% (both raters). Specificity was 85.19% and 92.59%. In 34 decedents, autopsy identified an MI (peracute: n = 7, acute: n = 25, chronic: n = 2). Of 25 MI classified as acute at autopsy, MRI classified peracute in four cases and subacute in nine cases. In two cases, MRI suggested peracute MI, which was not detected at autopsy. MRI could help to classify the age stage and may indicate the area for sampling for further microscopic examination. However, the low sensitivity requires further additional MRI techniques to increase the diagnostic value.
Quantifying the asymmetric and dependence structure between financial inclusion and energy efficiency: evidence from quantile methods
Authors: Pata Ugur Korkut , Fareed Zeeshan
Published: March 2023

Improving
energy efficiency is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change and global warming. Financial inclusion can facilitate the financing of energy-efficient technologies and environmental awareness programs. In this context, this study aims to investigate the asymmetric and causal relationships between financial inclusion and energy efficiency in the ten most energy-efficient countries over the period 1980q1–2018q4. For this purpose, the quantile-on-quantile approach, quantile regression, and quantile Granger causality test are applied in this study. The findings demonstrate that financial inclusion has a negative impact on energy intensity across all quantiles. Energy intensity also reduces financial inclusion. However, this effect is attenuated at higher quantiles. Moreover, all countries have bidirectional causality between financial inclusion and energy efficiency. Given these results, the study suggests that financial inclusion is an important determinant of energy efficiency and that financial conditions should be considered when implementing energy policies. This study will be conducive for policymakers to implement financial development strategies for investing in clean technologies to increase energy efficiency and solve environmental issues.
Efficacy of supply chain relationships – differences in performance appraisals between buyers and suppliers
Authors: Qian Chen , Dion Paul A. , Wagner Ralf , Seuring Stefan
Published: March 2023

This paper examines the efficacy of three supply chain relationship factors: trust, commitment, and relationship specific investment (RSI) in affecting firms’ cooperation, innovation and financial performance, comparing buyers’ and suppliers’ perspectives. A questionnaire survey was conducted in mainland China. Two independent samples with 101 and 108 responses respectively from the Chinese business buyers and suppliers were collected by visiting nine large annual exhibitions. Both samples involved buyer–supplier business relationships across three business markets: textiles, food, and consumer electronics. The data was analysed using structural equation modelling and a two-groups invariance test. The results indicate that the efficacies of trust, commitment, and RSI influencing buyers’ and suppliers’ performance are different. The paths from the relationship factors leading to performance form patterns that differ between buyers and suppliers in the Chinese business context. While trust and RSI are the direct antecedents of buyers’ cooperation performance, commitment is the immediate precursor of suppliers’ cooperation performance. Trust and commitment lead to buyer’s innovation performance directly, while RSI is a direct driver of supplier’ innovation performance. In addition, RSI is not a significant factor for buyers’ financial performance, whereas it will generate financial return for suppliers. Based on these findings, we provide differentiated relationship management suggestions to managers of buying and supplying firms for helping them improve performance in the Chinese business market in particular. For example, trust and commitment are more important relationship factors than RSI for buying firms, while RSI is as significant as trust and commitment for supplying firms.
Physical and psychological challenges faced by military, medical and public safety personnel relief workers supporting natural disaster operations: a systematic review
Authors: Ein Natalie , Plouffe Rachel A. , Liu Jenny J. W. , Gervasio Julia , Baker Clara , Carleton R. Nicholas , Bartels Susan A. , Lee Jennifer E. C. , Nazarov Anthony , Richardson J. Don
Published: March 2023

Natural disasters, including floods, earthquakes, and hurricanes, result in devastating consequences at the individual and community levels. To date, much of the research reflecting the consequences of natural disasters focuses heavily on victims, with little attention paid to the personnel responding to such disasters. We conducted a systematic review of the challenges faced by military, medical and public safety personnel supporting natural disaster relief operations. Specifically, we report on the current evidence reflecting challenges faced, as well as positive outcomes experienced by military, medical and public safety personnel following deployment to natural disasters. The review included 382 studies. A large proportion of the studies documented experiences of medical workers, followed by volunteers from humanitarian organizations and military personnel. The most frequently reported challenges across the studies were structural (i.e., interactions with the infrastructure or structural institutions), followed by resource limitations, psychological, physical, and social challenges. Over 60% of the articles reviewed documented positive or transformative outcomes following engagement in relief work (e.g., the provision of additional resources, support, and training), as well as self-growth and fulfillment. The current results emphasize the importance of pre-deployment training to better prepare relief workers to manage expected challenges, as well as post-deployment supportive services to mitigate adverse outcomes and support relief workers’ well-being.
Novel Cellulose/Silica Microspheres as Sustainable and Efficient Adsorbents for Methyl Orange Removal
Authors: Salama Ahmed
Published: March 2023

The effective removal of organic dyes from aqueous solutions is essential for environmental protection and remediation. Hence, methods for fabricating efficient and sustainable adsorbents for removing toxic dyes are urgently desired. Here, new cellulose/silica microspheres containing amino groups were prepared and applied as functional materials for capturing anionic pollutants. Tosyl cellulose, which has a high degree of substitution, was prepared from cellulose using an ionic liquid as the solvent. Further, (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane was utilized as a silica precursor to prepare the microhybrids via nucleophilic substitution, followed by the sol–gel process. The fabricated microhybrids exhibited an excellent capacity for methyl orange (MO) adsorption. Furthermore, the effects of different pH values, contact times, and initial dye concentrations on the MO adsorption capacity were evaluated. The Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models were effective for modeling the adsorption of MO on the cellulose/silica microspheres. Under the established optimal conditions, the cellulose/silica microspheres exhibited a higher adsorption capacity (588 mg/g) than those in previous reports. Therefore, the proposed cellulose/silica microspheres offer a promising platform for the sustainable development of water-purification systems.

Graphical Abstract
Exploring the perspectives of irradiated sodium alginate on molecular and physiological parameters of heavy metal stressed Vigna radiata L. plants
Authors: Moussa H. R. , Taha Mohamed A. , Dessoky Eldessoky S. , Selem Eman
Published: March 2023

Heavy metal (HM) contamination causes severe detrimental effects on plant growth. Irradiated sodium alginate (ISA) has been proposed for enhancing the efficacy and selectivity of metal ion biosorption from plants under HM-toxicity. The present study has been planned to investigate the morphological, molecular, physiological, and regulation of transcript levels of defence mechanisms for alleviation of HM toxicity in Vigna radiata plants by irradiated sodium alginate (ISA). V. radiata L. plants were treated with T0-water (control); TCd-CdCl2 (100 μM); TPb-Pb(NO3)2 (500 μM); TFe-FeSO4 (300 μM), and ISA solution at 75 mg/l as a foliar spray onto leaves. Our results suggested the positive impact of ISA for HM stress mitigation by V. radiata L. plants, through modulatory effects on molecular and physiological attributes. In our study, we evaluated the growth characteristics (plant height, leaf area, total fresh weight and grain weight), pigment contents, photosynthetic efficiency (14CO2-fixation), enzyme activities (nitrate reductase, ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate-carboxylase/oxygenase, and carbonic anhydrases), and macronutrient contents (P, N, and K) in metal-stressed plants. All these attributes were found to be stimulated after ISA application. Also, ISA reduced the total malondialdehyde, free proline, and total phenol content in heavy metal-exposed plants. The transcriptional expression profiling was conducted by examining the expression levels of AtPDR12, AtATM3, AtPCR1, MPK4, MPK6, and AtPDR8 genes that inferred the ISA-mediated detoxification of HMs in V. radiata plants. The data in the present research clearly indicated that treatment with foliar sprays of ISA (75 mg/l) resulted in enhanced tolerance of V. radiata plants against different HM stresses.
Exact and stochastic methods for robustness analysis in the context of Imprecise Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Labijak-Kowalska Anna , Kadziński Miłosz
Published: March 2023

We consider the problem of measuring the efficiency of decision-making units with a ratio-based model. In this perspective, we introduce a framework for robustness analysis that admits both interval and ordinal performances on inputs and outputs. The proposed methodology exploits the uncertainty related to the imprecise data and all feasible input/output weight vectors delimited through linear constraints. We offer methods for verifying the robustness of three types of outcomes: efficiency scores, efficiency preference relations, and efficiency ranks. On the one hand, we formulate mathematical programming models to compute the extreme, necessary, and possible results. On the other hand, we incorporate the stochastic analysis driven by the Monte Carlo simulations to derive the probability distribution of different outcomes. The framework is implemented in R and made available on open-source software. Its use is illustrated in two case studies concerning Chinese ports or industrial robots.
Palaeoenvironmental conditions for the natural vulcanization of the Eocene “monkeyhair” laticifers from Geiseltal, Germany, as elucidated by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Lönartz Mara I. , McCoy Victoria E. , Gee Carole T. , Geisler Thorsten
Published: March 2023

The evolutionary history of latex, a widespread chemical defense against insect herbivores, is not fully understood, yet a more detailed understanding of the fossil record of latex could help answer important evolutionary questions. This is, however, hampered by the difficulty of recognizing fossil latex and our still incomplete comprehension of the processes preserving latex. The best-studied fossil latex comes from the middle Eocene Geiseltal lignites in Germany, where fibrous laticifer mats, called “monkeyhair,” are preserved in the severely degraded remains of some ancient trees in the brown coals. Laticifers are specialized elongate cells that carry latex throughout the plant. In previous studies, researchers have hypothesized that these fossil laticifers are preserved through natural low temperature vulcanization of rubber within the latex. Here, we report the results of Raman spectroscopic study on Geiseltal laticifers to identify the vulcanization of natural rubber and on spatially associated carbonaceous material to test various Raman carbon geothermometers for their accuracy for low-thermal-maturity samples. Raman spectra of the fossil laticifers are virtually identical to that of rubber (cis-1,4-polyisoprene) with additional bands demonstrating sulfur vulcanization. Raman spectra from the surrounding lignite and existing Raman-based carbon thermometers, currently calibrated down to about 100 °C, clearly indicate that these samples were never exposed to temperatures higher than the surrounding lignite. These results directly validate the previous hypothesis of fossilization through natural vulcanization. Moreover, this work demonstrates that Raman spectroscopy is a rapid, non-destructive method for reliably identifying and characterizing fossil latex and that further development and calibration of the carbon thermometer may allow quantitative temperature measurements for low-thermal-maturity carbonaceous material.
Phytoremediation: Low input-based ecological approach for sustainable environment
Authors: Singh Himshweta , Pant Gaurav
Published: March 2023

In today's fast-paced society, environmental breakdown is an ecumenical concern. This dilemma is tangled up with the unaccountable anthropogenic activities that are causing significant public health issues. Because of the rapid pace of development, urban soil and water pollution is progressively acting as a sink for a variety of contaminants, including heavy metals, pesticides, petroleum waste, radioactive moieties, etc. Phytoremediation is a low-cost, high-efficient method of extracting or removing pollutants from the environment. Water is transpired by green plants in order to move nutrients from the soil to the site of photosynthesis. During this process, pollutants in the water are also taken up and sequestered, digested, or drained out. This technique has many benefits over conventional approaches which is aesthetically pleasing and has long-term applicability. Phytoremediation could be a viable option to decontaminate heavy metal-polluted sites, particularly when the biomass produced during the process could be economically utilized in the form of bioenergy. Depending on the method used and nature of the contaminant involved, phytoremediating areas where metals and other inorganic compounds exist may utilize one of several techniques as discussed in the present study which are phytodegradation, phytoextraction, phytostimulation, phytostabilization, phytofiltration, phytovolatalization, etc. Phytoremediation is an emerging technology that employs the natural, biological, chemical, or physical processes of plants to remove, detoxify, or immobilize environmental contaminants in a growth matrix. This approach is hence an innovative tool with a great potential to decontaminate soil and water. Phytoremediation is a promising technique for ensuring the sustainability of future generations and reducing pollution.
Comparing Several Different Numerical Approaches for Large Deformation Modeling with Application in Soil Dynamic Compaction
Authors: Hajivand Rashid Dastgerdi , Zamani Mohammad Ahmad Mahmoudi , Knez Dariusz , Kazemi Kamran
Published: March 2023

Dynamic compaction (DC) is vastly utilized to improve the strength characteristics of the soils. To predict the soil deformations derived from the DC operations, usually numerical simulation analysis is applied. For the conduction of such simulations, several numerical approaches with different elemental formulations can be used. From the perspective of finite element analysis (FEA), there are four main formulations including the Lagrangian, Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE), Coupled Lagrangian-Eulerian (CEL), and Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamic (SPH). In this research, a comparative study has been conducted to evaluate the computational efficiency of those four approaches in the prediction of soil large deformations during the DC operations. To do this, for a DC operation executed in a road embankment construction project in China, the real field data was compared to the results obtained from the numerical simulations via the ABAQUS program. The findings demonstrate that of all those approaches, the Lagrangian approach delivers the minimum accuracy of the predicted results, albeit with the least running time. In contrast, the ALE formulation predicted closer estimations of soil deformations although it was found to be less time-efficient. Interestingly, the CEL and SPH approaches predicted the soil deformations with the maximum degree of accuracy whereas they were not as time-efficient as the Lagrangian approach. To address this issue, a hybrid model of Lagrangian and SPH formulations was constituted to satisfy the maximum accuracy with the minimum running time. Such a hybrid model is highly applicable for the accurate prediction of soil large deformations during the DC operations.
Prinzipien der Literaturwissenschaft revisited
Authors: Lauer Gerhard
Published: March 2023

Ausgehend von Ernst Elsters erster systematischen Bestimmung des Begriffs Literaturwissenschaft geht der Beitrag der Frage nach, inwieweit Literaturwissenschaft als ein Fach aufgefasst werden kann, das nach den Prinzipien der Literatur fragt.
Microstructure, mechanical and thermal properties of YSZ thermal barrier coatings deposited by axial suspension plasma spraying
Authors: Poliarus Olena , Morgiel Jerzy , Żórawski Wojciech , Góral Anna , Pomorska Małgorzata , Wojciechowski Krzysztof T. , Cherniushok Oleksandr
Published: March 2023

Yttrium-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are indispensable elements of present-day turbine propulsion systems. The ones deposited with atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) are characterized by required low thermal conductivity, but they are unable to survive frequent thermomechanical loading and therefore their application is limited to parts remaining stationary. Expanding capability of TBCs is sought in various areas, but the one realized through modification of most proliferated apparatus used for plasma spraying (PS) (from radial to axial injection) and substituting micrometric powders with the nano-structured suspension needs least changes in the industry established procedures and offers the highest property improvement. The present experiment covered the deposition of ZrO2-8Y2O3 YSZ TBC using both atmospheric and suspension PS processes. They were performed with commercial micrometric and nano-structured YSZ (8% Y2O3) powders. The coatings morphology and microstructure were characterized with 3D profilometry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM) methods. Finally, the coating’s hardness and heat conductivity were measured. This complex approach allowed to state that PS of micrometric t’-ZrO2 powder having an admixture of m-ZrO2 phase is capable of only partial improvement in its homogenization. However, the suspension PS process of nano-structured powder eliminated any traces of the monoclinic phase from the coating. The TEM microstructure observations indicated that the suspension PS coating is built by in-flight solidified droplets as well as by the melted ones flattened on arrival. A surface layer of liquefied material on solid droplets increases their adhesion to surface asperities promoting pseudo-columnar growth of the coating. The preservation of monotonic slow increase of thermal conductivity during heating of the suspension PS coating means, that its pseudo-columnar microstructure is better suited to withstand high strains during such treatment.
Analyzing a Cross-Functional Information Technology Project: A Real Application of the Multistage One-Shot Decision-Making Approach
Authors: Al-Shanfari Mohammed
Published: March 2023

This research applies the multistage one-shot decision-making approach (MOSDMA) to a cross-functional information technology project in Oman. This case study is the first to employ the MOSDMA in actual practice. A group of experts re-evaluate the former decision problem using qualitative and quantitative data. The results show the ease and effectiveness of applying the suggested approach in re-evaluating a former decision problem. In addition, it is well recognized that such a scenario-based approach that involves the decision-maker’s mindset can yield confidence in, satisfaction with, and ownership of the decision, irrespective of the future outcomes.
MULTIMOORA Method-Based Schweizer–Sklar Operations for CO2 Geological Storage Site Selection Under Pythagorean Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Chao
Published: March 2023

The site selection of CO2 geological storage facilities is essential for the development of safe and efficient carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) projects. Normally, CO2 geological storage site selection can be regarded as a complex multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. The aim of this paper is to present an integrated decision-making method for solving the site selection problem for CO2 geological storage. To achieve this goal, this method is based on multi-objective optimization by ratio analysis plus the full multiplicative form (MULTIMOORA) method and prioritized aggregation operators in Pythagorean fuzzy environment. The academic contributions of this study include: first, some Pythagorean fuzzy Schweizer–Sklar prioritized aggregation (PFSSPA) operators are proposed, which take into account the priority levels of criteria and the risk preferences of decision makers. The excellent properties of these operators are given. Then this study extends the classical MULTIMOORA method based on the developed aggregation operators (named PFSSPA-MULTIMOORA), and the calculation process of this method is described in detail. Subsequently, on the basis of the constructed criteria system, the PFSSPA-MULTIMOORA method is applied to rank the alternatives. Finally, we successfully utilized the PFSSPA-MULTIMOORA method to solve the site selection problem of CO2 geological storage in China. A comparative analysis of existing methods verifies the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method. This work can provide advanced decision support for researchers and practitioners.
Compact localized boundary states in a quasi-1D electronic diamond-necklace chain
Authors: Kempkes S. N. , Capiod P. , Ismaili S. , Mulkens J. , Eek L. , Swart I. , Morais Smith C.
Published: March 2023

Zero-energy modes localized at the ends of one-dimensional (1D) wires hold great potential as qubits for fault-tolerant quantum computing. However, all the candidates known to date exhibit a wave function that decays exponentially into the bulk and hybridizes with other nearby zero-modes, thus hampering their use for braiding operations. Here, we show that a quasi-1D diamond-necklace chain exhibits an unforeseen type of robust boundary state, namely compact localized zero-energy modes that do not decay into the bulk. We find that this state emerges due to the presence of a latent symmetry in the system. We experimentally realize the diamond-necklace chain in an electronic quantum simulator setup.
Chronic Ciguatera Poisoning: A Case Report
Authors: Johnson-Arbor Kelly K.
Published: March 2023

Ciguatera is a common marine, toxin-borne illness caused by the consumption of fish that contain toxins that activate voltage-sensitive sodium channels. The clinical manifestations of ciguatera are typically self-limited, but chronic symptoms may occur in a minority of patients. This report describes a case of ciguatera poisoning with chronic symptoms, including pruritus and paresthesias. A 40-y-old man was diagnosed with ciguatera poisoning after consuming amberjack while vacationing in the US Virgin Islands. His initial symptoms, including diarrhea, cold allodynia, and extremity paresthesias, evolved into chronic, fluctuating paresthesias and pruritus that became worse after the consumption of alcohol, fish, nuts, and chocolate. After a comprehensive neurologic evaluation failed to reveal another cause for his symptoms, he was diagnosed with chronic ciguatera poisoning. His neuropathic symptoms were treated with duloxetine and pregabalin, and he was counseled to avoid foods that triggered his symptoms. Chronic ciguatera is a clinical diagnosis. Signs and symptoms of chronic ciguatera can include fatigue, myalgias, headache, and pruritus. The pathophysiology of chronic ciguatera is incompletely understood but may involve genetic factors or immune dysregulation. Treatment involves supportive care and avoidance of foods and environmental conditions that may exacerbate symptoms.
Different Influencing Factors for Risk of Falls Between Men and Women while Descending from Mount Fuji
Authors: Uno Tadashi , Mitsui Satomi , Watanabe Misato , Takiguchi Chieko , Horiuchi Masahiro
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Annually, approximately 250,000 people climb Mount Fuji in Japan. Nonetheless, only few studies have examined the prevalence of falls and related factors on Mount Fuji.

Methods

We conducted a questionnaire survey of 1061 participants (703 men and 358 women) who had climbed Mount Fuji. The following information was collected: age, height, body weight, luggage weight, experience on Mount Fuji, experience on other mountains, presence or absence of a tour guide, single-day climber or overnight-stay lodger, information on the downhill trail (volcanic gravel, long distance, and the risk of falls), presence or absence of trekking poles, shoe type, shoe sole condition, and fatigue feeling.

Results

The fall rate in women (174/358; 49%) was greater than that in men (246/703; 35%). A prediction model using multiple logistic regression (no fall, 0; fall, 1) indicated that the following factors decreased the risk of falls: male sex, younger age, previous experience on Mount Fuji, having information about long-distance downhill trails, wearing hiking shoes or mountaineering boots rather than other types of shoes (eg, running shoes, sneakers) or worn-out shoes, and not feeling fatigued. Additionally, the following factors may decrease the risk of falls in women only: experience hiking on any other mountains, not being part of a guided tour, and using trekking poles.

Conclusions

Women had a higher risk of falls on Mount Fuji than men. Specifically, having less experience on any other mountains, being part of a guided tour, and nonuse of trekking poles may relate to higher risks of falls in women. These results suggest that different precautionary measures for men and women are useful.
Sexual Restraint and Aesthetic Experience in Victorian Literary Decadence
Authors: Green Sarah
Published: March 2023

Can sexual restraint be good for you? Many Victorians thought so. This book explores the surprisingly positive construction of sexual restraint in an unlikely place: late nineteenth-century Decadence. Reading Decadent texts alongside Victorian writing about sexual health, including medical literature, adverts, advice books, and periodical articles, it identifies an intellectual Paterian tradition of sensuous continence, in which 'healthy' pleasure is distinguished from its 'harmful' counterpart. Recent work on Decadent sexuality concentrates on transgression and subversion, with restraint interpreted ahistorically as evidence of repression/sublimation or queer coding. Here Sarah Green examines the work of Walter Pater, Lionel Johnson, Vernon Lee, and George Moore to outline a co-extensive alternative approach to sexuality where restraint figured as a productive part of the 'aesthetic life', or a practical ethics shaped by aesthetic principles. Attending to this tradition reveals neglected connections within and beyond Decadence, bringing fresh perspective to its late nineteenth- and twentieth-century reception.
The Problem of Pleasure
Authors: Erdozain Dominic
Published: March 2023

The book combines intellectual, cultural and social history to address a major area of encounter between Christianity and British culture: the world of leisure.
Dispensing of antibiotics without prescription in the metropolitan area of Athens, Greece, in 2021—Can new legislation change old habits?
Authors: Kopsidas Ioannis , Kokkinidou Lydia , Petsiou Dioni Pinelopi , Kourkouni Eleni , Triantafyllou Christos , Tsopela Grammatiki-Christina , Zaoutis Theoklis
Published: March 2023

Objective:

To assess the effect of new legislation on the dispensing of antimicrobials without prescription from pharmacies in Greece.

Design:

In-person survey.

Setting:

The study included 110 pharmacies in the greater Athens Metropolitan area.

Methods:

Volunteer collaborators visited 110 pharmacies in the greater Athens Metropolitan area in December 2021 and January 2022. They asked for either ciprofloxacin or amoxicillin-clavulanate acid (6:5 ratio) without providing a prescription, without simulating symptoms, and without offering justification or insisting. Fluoroquinolones have additional dispensing restrictions in Greece. Results were compared to a 2008 study. In 2020, legislation allowed the dispensing of antibiotics from pharmacies only with an electronic prescription, overriding the 1973 forbidding the dispensing of all medications without prescriptions.

Results:

All pharmacists refused to dispense ciprofloxacin without a prescription. Only 1 pharmacy dispensed amoxicillin-clavulanate without a prescription. Compared to the 2008 study, dispensing of amoxicillin-clavulanate without a prescription dropped from 100% in 2008 to 1% in 2021 and dispensing ciprofloxacin without a prescription dropped from 53% in 2008 to 0% in 2021.

Conclusions:

A new and enforced law that requires electronic prescribing led to a dramatic reduction of antibiotic dispensing without prescription compared to 12 years ago. Similar initiatives could help solve the problem of antibiotic consumption and resistance in Greece and elsewhere.
Ion-bunch energy acoustic tracing by modulation of the depth-dose curve
Authors: Praßelsperger A. , Balling F. , Wieser H.-P. , Parodi K. , Schreiber J.
Published: March 2023

Characterizing exact energy density distributions for laser-accelerated ion bunches in a medium is challenging due to very high beam intensities and the electro-magnetic pulse emitted in the laser–plasma interaction. Ion-bunch energy acoustic tracing allows for reconstructing the spatial energy density from the ionoacoustic wave generated upon impact in water. We have extended this approach to tracing ionoacoustic modulations of broad energy distributions by introducing thin foils in the water reservoir to shape the acoustic waves at distinct points along the depth–dose curve. Here, we present first simulation studies of this new detector and reconstruction approach, which provides an online read-out of the deposited energy with depth within the centimeter range behind the ion source of state-of-the-art laser–plasma-based accelerators.
Review and revision of the Olivoidea (Neogastropoda) from the Paleocene and Eocene of the U.S. Gulf Coastal Plain
Authors: Allmon Warren D. , Friend Dana S.
Published: March 2023

Numerous species of “oliviform” gastropods have been recognized in the Paleogene of the U.S. Gulf Coastal Plain, many of which have previously been allied to the “Bullia group” in the family Nassariidae, and placed in a variety of poorly defined genera. We review these species, revise their generic and familial placement, and present a phylogenetic analysis. Of 19 species considered valid, all are assigned to Olivoidea, six to Olividae—one to Oliva, five to Agaronia—and the rest to Ancillariidae. The highly variable species Ancillaria altile Conrad is referred in the genus Ancillopsis and appears to have evolved anagenetically over an interval of perhaps 20 million years. Ancillaria tenera Conrad and Ancillaria scamba Conrad are placed in the new genus Palmoliva. Monoptygma Lea is demonstrated to belong to Ancillariidae, and to contain only a single species. Specimens assigned to Lisbonia expansa Palmer are split into adults assigned to Ancillopsis altilis and juveniles (together with several other species) in the long-lived species Anbullina elliptica (Whitfield). Coastal Plain ancillariids may have evolved from one or more species of the Cretaceous–Paleocene genus Eoancilla. We agree with previous authors who have suggested that the late Eocene species Oliva mississippiensis Conrad is the earliest known representative of this genus and the subfamily Oliviinae, perhaps derived from a species of Agaronia. The oldest Agaronia is lower Eocene (Ypresian).

UUID: http://zoobank.org/b7d9f79b-c68b-4385-aba3-bb07c6d6dc87