bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contextualising sustainable transhumant pastoralism: A systematic review
Authors: Azerigyik Richard Apatewen , Owusu‐Ansah Justice , Poku‐Boansi Michael , Agyei Frank Kwaku
Published: November 2024

Transhumant pastoralism and sustainable development are two concepts that have long been treated as mutually exclusive elements in research on agriculture and livestock production. This study, therefore, aimed to establish the critical link between the two concepts by exploring the effects of transhumant pastoralism on economic, environmental and social sustainability, thereby conceptualising it within the broader sustainable development discourse. The study adopted a systematic literature review methodology to synthesise 145 studies related to the role of transhumant pastoralism in sustainable development in sub‐Saharan Africa. The paper employed thematic analysis to investigate the nature of transhumance and its implications for sustainability. The thematic analysis was based on the tripartite dimensions of sustainability—social, economic and environmental. The findings indicate that transhumance substantially impacts economic sustainability through the preservation of livelihoods, the creation of employment opportunities, and the generation of revenue. Nonetheless, it also poses challenges such as crop damage and the spread of zoonotic diseases, adversely affecting economic stability. Socially, transhumance promotes ethnoreligious cooperation and integration, enhancing social cohesion, but it also contributes to conflicts and security concerns. From the environmental perspective, transhumance has the potential to mitigate overgrazing and facilitate ecosystem regeneration. However, it is also linked to water contamination, deforestation, and the proliferation of invasive species. The study concluded that sustainable transhumant pastoralism must be conceptualised holistically, addressing the dimensions of sustainability simultaneously. It is recommended that effective stakeholder collaboration and comprehensive policy interventions be used to harness the benefits of transhumance while minimising its adverse effects.
Exploring the role of sustainability reporting strategies in promoting sustainable development in social economy entities: The circular economy as a mediator
Authors: Gallardo‐Vázquez Dolores , de Sousa Paiva Inna Choban , Nuevo‐Gallardo Cristina
Published: November 2024

This study focused on the relationship between sustainability reporting (SR), the circular economy (CE), and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including an examination of the mediator role of the CE in the SR–SDGs relationship. The SR concept refers to the ways in which companies communicate with their internal and external stakeholders about their sustainability initiatives. Researchers have confirmed that the CE contributes to the achievement of SDGs based on SR. However, the literature does not offer any comprehensive frameworks that integrate these three concepts, which constitutes an important research gap. More specifically, very few studies have explored how social economy entities (SEEs) report the ways they contribute to achieving the SDGs while implementing CE practices. This research thus sought to make a significant contribution to filling this lacuna. Statistical analyses were conducted to determine how SR influences SDGs and how SR promotes these goals through the CE. Variance‐based structural equation modeling via partial least squares was applied to process data on a sample of 90 SEEs in Spain. The results show that entities that provide sufficient SR often communicate how they are implementing SDGs. CE practices have a significant effect on this SR–SDGs relationship. The findings thus make an important contribution to the literature by exploring the link between these three strategies (i.e., SR, the SDGs, and the CE) in organizational contexts and thus providing a foundation for new business models.
Structure Activity Relationship of Diarylidenecyclopentanone Derivatives as Potent Antiplasmodial Agents
Authors: Tamang Nitesh , Yadav Mamta , Joshi Mayank , Choudhury Angshuman Roy , Golakoti Nageswara Rao , Sahal Dinkar
Published: November 2024

In our efforts to design mono‐carbonyl analogues of curcumin with potential antiplasmodial activity, diarylidenecyclopentanone (DACP) derivatives, Ia–Iu and II–V, have been synthesized and characterized using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, IR, UV–Vis, and mass spectrometry. Structure of one of these DACPs has been verified by single crystal XRD. At the outset, all 25 DACPs were first screened at 12.5 µM for their in vitro antiplasmodial activity against the chloroquine (CQ)‐sensitive Pf3D7. The three most potent compounds (In, It, and Ik) were further tested at <10 µM concentrations against Pf3D7, PfINDO (CQ resistant), and PfMRA‐1240 (Artemisinin resistant) strains for determination of their IC50s and resistance indices. The drug profile of the DACPs was found to be very promising, with the most active compound It (IC50 1.39 µM against PfINDO) showing a selectivity index of ∼17 tested using HUH‐7 and HEK‐293T mammalian cell lines. Molecular docking studies with Pf pyridoxal synthase showed a good correlation between docking scores of DACPs and in vitro antiplasmodial activity. Further, high conformity with Lipinski's parameters indicates that these DACPs are promising antiplasmodial lead compounds.
Synthesis, Theoretical Gaussian Quantum Chemical Calculations, and Spectroscopic Elucidation of N‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐10H‐phenothiazine‐10‐carboxamide
Authors: Dugar Neeru , Jupudi Srikanth
Published: November 2024

Phenothiazine derivative N‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐10H‐phenothiazine‐10‐carboxamide (BPC), a novel compound is selected for the present study based on the reported effectiveness of phenothiazine towards neurodegenerative diseases. Synthesis and characterization of BPC are carried out in the present work. To comprehend the electronic and structural aspects of BPC, quantum chemical studies are performed. Computational aspects using the density functional theory method using B3LYP/6–31 G ++(d,p) as a basis set are studied for the geometry optimization of the molecule. To analyze the reactivity, stability, and intramolecular interactions of the compound frontier orbital molecular analysis, molecular electrostatic potential distribution, and Fukui function are implemented. Calculations have been made to determine the electrophilic and nucleophilic descriptors of the title compounds by Fukui function evaluations on atomic charges. To visualize and quantify the localization of electrons and molecular orbitals in the molecule, electron localization function, localized orbital locator analysis and orbital localization analysis are carried out for a better understanding of chemical bonding. Basin Analysis is used for analysis of the nature of chemical bonds and interactions. To understand bond strengths, hyperconjugation, and reactivity natural bond orbital analysis is performed.
Biowaste‐Mediated Synthesis of CeO₂–TiO₂ Nanoparticles: An Efficient Recoverable Nanocatalyst for the Solvent‐Free Synthesis of Antipyrine Derivatives and Their Biological Evaluation
Authors: Dwivedi Bhaskar , Bhardwaj Diksha , Choudhary Deepika
Published: November 2024

A facile, efficient, and environmentally friendly protocol for the solvent‐free synthesis of antipyrine‐ linked quinoline derivatives catalyzed by CeO2–TiO2 nanocatalyst under ultrasonication is developed. Antipyrine derivatives are involved in various synthetic processes and exhibit valuable biological activities, such as antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Biowaste‐ derived CeO2–TiO2 nanoparticles have been synthesized using outer covering calyx leaves extract of Physalis peruviana fruits and utilized for the construction of biologically important antipyrine derivatives by the multicomponent reaction in short reaction time with excellent yield. The nanocatalyst was characterized by FT‐IR, powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron dispersion spectroscopy (EDS). The functionalized nanoparticles show excellent reusability without any significant loss in catalytic activity. The hot filtering experiment shows that there is no noticeable leaching or boomerang effect and that the catalysis is heterogeneous in nature. All synthesized compounds underwent screening for antibacterial activity against selected microorganisms, and their antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl). Some of the synthesized compounds exhibited promising results in both screenings.
Toward an improved causal test of network effects: Does alliance network position enhance firm innovation?
Authors: Hernandez Exequiel , Lee Jason K. , Shaver J. Myles
Published: November 2024

Research Summary

Assessing whether network position causes firm outcomes is difficult because networks result from firms' strategic choices. To address this issue, we develop a research design that separates self‐driven network change from other‐driven change. Because other‐driven change suppresses the focal firm's agency, outcomes resulting from it can be interpreted as causal—under verifiable assumptions. We apply this method to reassess whether alliance network position affects firm innovation. Using data from the biotechnology industry, we find that structural holes (but not closure) increase firm innovation when self‐driven network change is involved but not when other‐driven change is involved. This raises two possibilities: network effects spuriously capture unobservable firm characteristics or network theories must be updated to account for agency.

Managerial Summary

We examine a crucial question for managers making decisions about alliance networks: Does a firm's position in its alliance network drive innovation, or is it a reflection of the firm's inherent qualities? Our research explores this question by examining network changes outside a firm's control. We find that bridging disconnected partners (structural holes) enhances innovation, but only when firms actively create these positions and not when these positions result from others' actions. Our findings suggest that network position alone does not drive innovation. Acknowledging that network position, per se, is not advantageous provides nuanced insight to better guide managerial decisions.
Interface‐Engineered CuxO@Bi2MoO6 Heterojunctions to Inhibit Piezoelectric Screening Effect and Promote Double‐Nanozyme Catalysis for Antibacterial Treatment
Authors: Zhang Guiyuan , He Sumei , Wei Junwu , Ran Pan , Zheng Huan , He Long , Li Xiaohong
Published: November 2024

Sonodynamic therapy is confronted with the low acoustic efficiency of sonosensitizers, and nanozymes are accompanied by intrinsic low catalytic activity. Herein, to increase the piezopotential of N‐type piezoelectric semiconductors, the P‐N heterojunction is designed to inhibit the piezoelectric screening effect (PSE) and increase electron utilization efficiency to enhance nanozyme activity. P‐type CuxO nanoparticles are in situ grown on N‐type piezoelectric Bi2MoO6 (BMO) nanoflakes (NFs) to construct heterostructured CuxO@BMO by interface engineering. CuxO deposition leads to lattice distortion of BMO NFs to improve piezoelectric response, and the strong interface electric field (IEF) suppresses PSE and increases piezopotential. The nonlocal piezopotential, local IEF, and glutathione (GSH) inoculation enhances electron−hole separation and increases peroxidase (POD)‐like activity of BMO and GSH oxidase (GSHOx)‐like activity of CuxO with high selectivity. The heterojunction formation causes the transfer and rearrangement of interface electrons, and the increased piezopotential accelerates electron transfer at interfaces with bacteria, thus increasing the production of reactive oxidative species and interfering with adenosine triphosphate synthesis. The heterostructured nanozymes produce abundant intracellular ·OH and achieve 4log magnitude reductions in viable bacteria and effective biofilm dispersion. This study elucidates integral mechanisms of nanozyme and acoustic catalysis and opens up a new way to synergize high piezopotential and nanozyme‐catalyzed therapy.
Enhancing the Thermoelectric Performance of n‐Type Mg3Sb2‐Based Materials via Ag Doping
Authors: Li Jiankang , Chetty Raju , Liu Zihang , Gao Weihong , Mori Takao
Published: November 2024

The n‐type Mg3(Sb, Bi)2 compounds show great potential for wasted heat energy harvesting due to their promising thermoelectric properties. This work discovers that doping transition element Ag into the n‐type Mg3(Sb, Bi)2 can effectively optimize the power factor and suppress the lattice thermal conductivity simultaneously. Interestingly, the Ag doping has different effects compared to the isoelectronic and same group element Cu addition studied previously. A high power factor of 19.6 µW cm−1 K−2 is obtained at 673 K owing to the increased electrical conductivity. At the same time, the lattice thermal conductivity is reduced to ≈0.5 W m−1 K−1 because of enhanced phonon scattering induced by Ag atoms. These improvements lead to a peak figure of merit (ZT) of 1.64 at 673 K as well as a high average ZT of 1.27 is obtained from 323 K to 673 K. Furthermore, a thermoelectric single leg with a competitive conversion efficiency of ≈11% under a hot‐side temperature of 673 K is fabricated successfully. In addition, a 2‐pair module composed of n‐type Mg3(Sb, Bi)2 alloy and p‐type MgAgSb‐based compound demonstrates the high conversion efficiency of ≈7.9% at a temperature difference of 277 K, which will significantly upgrade the sustainable energy recycling technology.
Solution‐Processed Fabrication of Ni3S2‐Based Nanoheterostructure on Silicon Heterojunction Photocathode for Boosting Solar Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Chen Xiaoming , Li Yuexiang
Published: November 2024

Silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cell is an advanced and mature photovoltaic cell. Development of photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting devices for hydrogen fuel production using SHJ solar cells is considered as a promising approach to address energy crisis. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to deposit passivation layer and cocatalyst layer on the photoelectrode. However, the development of low‐cost and scalable preparation methods for high‐quality passivation and cocatalyst layer continues to be a significant challenge. Herein, an efficient passivation layer and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalyst are successfully fabricated via solution processed methods. To improve the HER activity of Ni3S2, a Ni3S2‐based nanoheterostructure of crystalline Ni3S2, Ni, and amorphous Y(OH)3 is constructed. The optimized photocathode exhibits excellent PEC‐HER performance, which achieves a saturated photocurrent of −35.5 mA cm−2 and an applied bias photon‐to‐current efficiency (ABPE) of 8.4 ± 0.1% under simulated AM1.5G one‐sun illumination and more than 120 h of continuous water splitting. This study paves a way for the design and large‐scale manufacturing of cost‐efficient SHJ photocathode devices.
Mesoscopic Tensile Deformation of Steel Cord with Diverse Layered Nonuniformity Based on Microcomputed Tomography Optimizing Simulation Model
Authors: Li Yong , Ma Xue , Kong Lingkang , Han Shanling , Chen Long , Miao Yanan
Published: November 2024

The finite‐element analysis plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality and predicting the safety of steel cord. The conventional parametric model for finite‐element analysis often overlooks the inhomogeneity of steel cord, making it difficult to achieve precise simulation. This article utilizes microcomputed tomography to track the mesoscopic deformation of real steel cord during stretching, reconstructing 3D digital images and quantitatively analyzing the corresponding rule for an optimized finite‐element modeling method. In comparison to the parametric model's experimental deviation of 28.37% in strain, the actual structural tensile model aligns with the tensile test with a deviation of only 2.88%, indicating high processing quality. In addition, when simulating the impact of layered nonuniformity on the fracture strain of cords, it is observed that a small degree of nonuniformity leads to an increase in compression between the cord filaments and subsequently enhances the fracture strain. This study provides a practical and dependable quantitative analysis on a mesoscopic scale to optimize the design and production of cords.
A Numerical Study of the Thermochemical and Aerodynamic States of H2‐intensive Direct Reduction Shaft Furnace
Authors: Zhai Yandong , Shao Lei , Zhao Chenxi , Zhang Xinya , Saxén Henrik
Published: November 2024

In the urgent pursuit of deep decarbonization, the steel industry has paid significant attention to the hydrogen‐intensive direct reduction process, where the H2‐to‐CO (volume) ratio of feed gas for the shaft furnace (SF) is increased compared to the current level. In this work, the reduction process of iron oxide pellets in the SF is investigated numerically to clarify how the in‐furnace thermochemical and aerodynamic states are affected by increasing hydrogen content, with the goal to provide guidelines for more efficient operations of the unit. Multiscale modeling is conducted to investigate the complicated gas–solid countercurrent reactive flows in the SF where the reduction behavior of an individual iron oxide pellet is described using a three‐interface unreacted shrinking core model. The results show that an increase in the hydrogen content leads to a lower temperature level and hence a deteriorated thermochemical state. It also induces a lower gas pressure drop over the in‐furnace packed bed.
Recent Progress in Microenvironment‐Responsive Nanodrug Delivery Systems for the Targeted Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Liu Shuhang , Yang Ming , Liu Han , Hao Yingxue , Zhang Dinglin
Published: November 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that often causes joint pain, swelling, and functional impairments. Drug therapy is the main strategy used to alleviate the symptoms of RA; however, drug therapy may have several adverse effects, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, gastric ulcers, intestinal bleeding, hypertension, hyperglycemia, infection, fatigue, and indigestion. Moreover, long‐term excessive use of drugs may cause liver and kidney dysfunction, as well as thrombocytopenia. Nanodrug delivery systems (NDDSs) can deliver therapeutics to diseased sites with the controlled release of the payload in an abnormal microenvironment, which helps to reduce the side effects of the therapeutics. Abnormalities in the microenvironment, such as a decreased pH, increased expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and increased concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS), are associated with the progression of RA but also provide an opportunity to achieve microenvironment‐responsive therapeutic release at the RA site. Microenvironment‐responsive NDDSs may overcome the abovementioned disadvantages of RA therapy. Herein, we comprehensively review recent progress in the development of microenvironment‐responsive NDDSs for RA treatment, including pH‐, ROS‐, MMP‐, and multiresponsive NDDSs. Furthermore, the pathological microenvironment is highlighted in detail.
EU Foreign Policy and the Fragmentation of the International Order: A Framework for Analysis
Authors: Costa Oriol , Soler i Lecha Eduard , Vlaskamp Martijn C.
Published: November 2024

The liberal international order (LIO) is fragmenting—there is pushback against liberal universalism, spheres of influence are back, and the shortening of value chains is explicitly planned for. By itself an integration-through-law project born within the logic of the LIO, the EU has recorded such changes in its foreign policy. This chapter sketches a research agenda over the ways in which the fragmentation of the LIO has impacted (the politics of) EU foreign policy. How have intra-EU debates registered this process? What are the strategies deployed by the EU in the face of the changing and fragmenting landscape of global governance? We propose interrogating this plurality of responses by identifying three broad approaches to EU foreign policy (nationalism, Atlanticism and Europeanism), and then differentiate between two different reactions to a fragmenting liberal international order, depending on whether one prefers to embrace fragmentation, or rather rejects to act according to its logic.
EU Trade Policy in Light of a Fragmented Liberal International Order
Authors: Eliasson L. Johan , Garcia-Duran Patricia
Published: November 2024

This chapter examines how the fragmentation of the international trading system (declining adherence to norms and rules, geopolitics, and the weaponization of trade) has affected different actors involved in EU trade policy. It finds that most Member States and the Commission straddle an Atlanticist and Europeanist approach. The former entails working closely with amenable American administrations; Europeanist means coordinating and cooperating with allies whenever possible, while also establishing autonomous capabilities to act alone when necessary, as part of strategic autonomy. Although some political parties prefer a nationalist approach (impermissible under current treaties), the Europeanist approach is gaining strength, and Europe’s alignment with and reliance on the US cannot be taken for granted.
Looking for Resource Sovereignty in a Fragmenting Global Order: The EU’s Response to Critical Raw Materials Challenges
Authors: Vlaskamp Martijn C.
Published: November 2024

This chapter examines the European Union's (EU) evolving concerns and strategies regarding critical raw materials (CRMs), which are essential for the renewable energy and digital transitions. The COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions with Russia and China have made the EU aware of the fragility of some of their supply chains. Initially seen mainly as an economic issue, the secure supply of CRMs is now perceived as a geopolitical concern crucial for strategic autonomy. This shift led to the 2024 Critical Raw Materials Act, which includes domestic and external measures such as bilateral agreements with resource exporters and strategic partnerships with politically like-minded countries. These policies were supported by almost all Member States, EU institutions, and groups in the European Parliament. Overall, this case illustrates a move of the EU from unequivocally advocating global free trade to a more protective approach to secure the raw materials vital for Europe's political and economic ambitions.
The EU’s Response to the Fragmented Emergence of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Briganti Dini Giovanni
Published: November 2024

The accelerating development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its growing strategic relevance in the context of international fragmentation and emerging geopolitical rivalry has thrust digital politics to the forefront of the European Union’s (EU) sovereign turn. Lacking the computational resources to shape AI development directly, the EU is attempting to wield influence through its normative power by passing the AI Act. EU actors are prevalently hedging between Atlanticist, Europeanist and nationalist approaches, reflecting the fluidity of contemporary digital politics and the growing instability and multipolarity of the international system.
Functional Inequalities in the Framework of Banach Spaces
Authors: Niculescu Constantin P.
Published: November 2024

This paper aims to illustrate the usefulness of majorization theory and higher-order convexity in generalizing several classical inequalities as functional inequalities. This includes results due to Ball et al. (Invent Math 115:463-482, 1994), Hanner (Ark Mat 3:239-244, 1956), Popoviciu (Analele ştiinţifice Univ “Al. I. Cuza” Iasi, Secţia I-a Mat 11:155-164, 1965) and Zhang (Matrix Theory: Basic Results and Techniques, Springer, New York, 2011). Also, based on a substitute for the parallelogram law due to Clarkson, a quadrilateral inequality established by Schötz (in Quadruple inequalities: Between Cauchy-Schwarz and triangle. ArXiv preprint, arXiv:2307.01361 v.3, 2024) in the context of Hilbert spaces is extended to the general framework of Banach spaces.
Interpolated pretesting can boost memory of related and distinct prose materials
Authors: Kliegl Oliver , Bäuml Karl-Heinz T.
Published: November 2024

The pretesting effect refers to the finding that tests performed before to-be learned material is encountered can enhance later retention of the material, even when no correct answers were provided on the initial pretest. The goal of the present study was to examine whether interspersing pretest questions between the study of multiple segments consisting of prose passages can induce a pretesting effect on a final cumulative recall test on all segments. To this end, participants studied four segments which were either thematically related (Experiment 1) or distinct (Experiment 2) and either received pretest questions about each segment immediately prior to study of the segment (pretest condition) or not (study-only condition). Results of the cumulative final test performed 24 h after study of the segments showed for both experiments that interpolated pretesting enhanced correct recall of the segments. The findings thus suggest that the positive effects of pretesting on memory generalize from the standard single-list design to a multiplelists design when pretests are performed prior to study of each list. Interpolated pretesting thus may play a critical role as a potential learning tool in educational practice.
Tracking dynamic deadlines in switched max-plus linear systems with uncontrollable workloads
Authors: Azarmi Roohallah , Alirezaei Mohsen , Goswami Dip , Basten Twan
Published: November 2024

Modern safety-critical cyber-physical systems such as medical imaging equipment or autonomous vehicles need to respect strict deadlines on received data-processing workloads. These deadlines and workloads are dynamic and uncontrollable and the systems typically have only a limited discrete number of system configurations to respond to dynamic changes. The number and types of processors allocated to a data-processing task, their operating voltage and frequency, and the resolution and frequency of sensing (e.g., images) are examples of controllable configuration parameters. Guaranteeing dynamically changing deadlines under uncontrollable workloads with a limited discrete number of response options can be phrased as a multi-objective tracking problem for a switched max-plus linear system. This results in a combined scheduling and control problem. We propose an integrated state-feedback and model-predictive control solution that minimizes the number of deadline misses and the cost of implementation (e.g., energy consumption). We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach through simulation.
Facile Synthesis and Decomposition Kinetics of Energetic Molecular Perovskite DAP-4 Catalyzed with Copper Nanoparticles for Advanced Energetic Systems
Authors: Ismael Shukri , Yehia M. , Attwa Mohamed , Said Ali , Elmasry Mohamed Abdelfatah , Elbasuney Sherif
Published: November 2024

Molecular perovskite DAP-4 (NH4)(C6H12N2)(ClO4)3 can expose high oxidizing capability, with superior decomposition enthalpy compared with ammonium perchlorate (AP). DAP-4 was developed via molecular assembly method. The potential impact of copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) on DAP-4 thermal decomposition was evaluated. Reactive Cu NPs of 50 nm were integrated into DAP-4 structure via solvent evaporation. Uniform dispersion of Cu NPs into DAP-4 matrix was assessed using elemental mapping. Whereas AP demonstrated decomposition enthalpy of 733 J/g; virgin DAP-4 and Cu/DAP-4 nanocomposite experienced decomposition enthalpy of 3800, and 4150 J/g respectively. Cu NPs offered decrease in DAP-4 main decomposition temperature by 49 oC. Decomposition kinetics was investigated via Kissinger, and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS). Cu/DAP-4 demonstrated apparent activation energy of 134.97 ± 3.02 kJ/mol compared with 216.32 ± 4.42 kJ/mol for virgin DAP-4. Cu NPs offered decrease in DAP-4 combustion time from 70 ms to 31 ms, with high intense combustion flame. Copper NPs experienced dramatic change in DAP-4 decomposition mechanism from F1 to F3.Copper NPs could act as efficient reactive catalyst particles; that could be oxidized to CuO with the evolution of 3700 J/g. The evolved CuO nanocatalyst could boost decomposition enthalpy.
COVID-19 and Weekly Hours Worked in Single-Person Households in the United States
Authors: Korkou Efstathia D.
Published: November 2024

In early 2020, single-person households constituted 17% of the labor force in the United States. How did these single-person households fare in terms of their weekly hours worked following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic? To answer the question, this paper used panel data from the Basic Monthly Current Population Survey and worked with a balanced panel of 2,659 single-person households that were consecutively surveyed in February, March, and April of 2020; that is, a period including the outbreak, as well as the first peak of the pandemic. In terms of the change in total hours worked per week, the paper recorded decreases across most demographic groups. Particularly, the paper documented that single-person households in any of the groups of Black, Hispanic, high school graduates, those aged less than 25, those aged between 31 and 35, and those between 46 and 50 were among the most severely negatively affected groups. Moreover, whether fixed or random effects models were used, the study concluded with a positive effect for teleworkability (the capability to work remotely) as well as with a positive effect for essential jobs on total weekly hours worked. Finally, the author included the need for safeguarding teleworkability in a broader policy discussion, as well as the need for developing coping mechanisms against disruptions of weekly hours worked especially under extreme hardships and crises.
Lernstandserhebungen: Mehrwert oder nur Mehraufwand?
Authors: Hans Sandra , Voss Thamar
Published: November 2024

Seit dem Schuljahr 2015/16 werden in Baden-Württemberg verpflichtend zu Beginn der fünften Klasse die Basiskompetenzen in den Fächern Deutsch und Mathematik der Schüler:innen mit der Lernstandserhebung Lernstand 5 erhoben. Ergebnisse aus Lernstand 5 können, wie die Ergebnisse anderer Lernstandserhebungen (z. B. VERA), im Sinne des Data Based Decision Making genutzt werden. Lernstand 5 unterscheidet sich aber in seiner vorrangig individualdiagnostisch ausgeprägten Konzeption von anderen nationalen Lernstandserhebungen. Deshalb ist es von Interesse, wie Lehrkräfte das Potenzial von Lernstand 5 einschätzen und wie sie die Ergebnisse nutzen. In der vorliegenden Studie wurden die Überzeugungen von Mathematik- und Deutschlehrkräften zu verschiedenen Aspekten von Lernstand 5 in einer Stichprobe von N = 744 Lehrkräften verschiedener Schularten untersucht. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die Rückmeldungen der Ergebnisse für die Lehrkräfte verständlich waren, die Lehrkräfte im Mittel aber eher skeptische Überzeugungen zu Lernstand 5 aufwiesen. Positivere Überzeugungen zu Lernstand 5 gingen mit einer vermehrten Nutzung der Ergebnisse einher. Zudem zeigen sich schulartspezifische Unterschiede in den Überzeugungen und der Nutzung: Lehrkräfte an nicht-gymnasialen Schularten, insbesondere an Gemeinschaftsschulen, wiesen positivere Überzeugungen zu Lernstand 5 auf und gaben an, die Ergebnisse für ihren Unterricht stärker zu nutzen.
A Computational Approach to Characterize the Protein S-Mer Tyrosine Kinase (PROS1-MERTK) Protein-Protein Interaction Dynamics
Authors: Djulbegovic Mak B. , Gonzalez David J. Taylor , Laratelli Luciano , Antonietti Michael , Uversky Vladimir N. , Shields Carol L. , Karp Carol L.
Published: November 2024

Protein S (PROS1) has recently been identified as a ligand for the TAM receptor MERTK, influencing immune response and cell survival. The PROS1–MERTK interaction plays a role in cancer progression, promoting immune evasion and metastasis in multiple cancers by fostering a tumor-supportive microenvironment. Despite its importance, limited structural insights into this interaction underscore the need for computational studies to explore their binding dynamics, potentially guiding targeted therapies. In this study, we investigated the PROS1–MERTK interaction using advanced computational analyses to support immunotherapy research. High-resolution structural models from ColabFold, an AlphaFold2 adaptation, provided a baseline structure, allowing us to examine the PROS1–MERTK interface with ChimeraX and map residue interactions through Van der Waals criteria. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted in GROMACS over 100 ns to assess stability and conformational changes using RMSD, RMSF, and radius of gyration (Rg). The PROS1–MERTK interface was predicted to contain a heterogeneous mix of amino acid contacts, with lysine and leucine as frequent participants. MD simulations demonstrated prominent early structural shifts, stabilizing after approximately 50 ns with small conformational shifts occurring as the simulation completed. In addition, there are various regions in each protein that are predicted to have greater conformational fluctuations as compared to others, which may represent attractive areas to target to halt the progression of the interaction. These insights deepen our understanding of the PROS1–MERTK interaction role in immune modulation and tumor progression, unveiling potential targets for cancer immunotherapy.
Early-Life Stress Influences the Transcriptional Activation of Alpha-2A Adrenergic Receptor and Associated Protein Kinase A Signaling Molecules in the Frontal Cortex of Rats
Authors: Ali Sarah , Dwivedi Yogesh
Published: November 2024

Early life is a highly sensitive period associated with profound changes in brain structure and function. Adverse experiences of early-life stress (ELS) are prominent risk factors for the precipitation of major depressive disorder (MDD). In recent years, dysfunction of the central noradrenergic (NA) system and subsequent deficits in norepinephrine (NE) signaling have gained increasing attention in the pathophysiology of MDD. However, the role of the α-2A adrenergic receptor and its downstream second messenger signaling system has not been investigated in connection to early-life stress-induced depression, limiting valuable insights into neurobiological mechanisms underlying this disorder. In this study, we used maternal separation (MS) as a rodent model of ELS to investigate whether ELS-induced depressive behavior is related to the α-2A adrenergic receptor and its associated second messenger signaling cascade. To do so, we studied expression levels of the α-2A adrenergic receptor (Adra2a), G alpha proteins (stimulatory subunit-Gαs [Gnas] and inhibitory subunit-Gαi [Gnai1 and Gnai2]), and downstream protein kinase A (PKA) catalytic [Prkarcα and Prkarcβ] and regulatory subunits [Prkar1α, Prkar1β, Prkar2α, and Prkar2β]) in the frontal cortex (FC) of MS rats. We found reduced sucrose preference in MS animals, along with reduced transcript levels of Adra2a, Gnai2, Prkar1β, and Prkarcβ. These findings suggest that ELS exposure may contribute to depression symptomatology via alterations in the expression of key genes involved in the NA system, highlighting potential mechanisms underlying ELS-induced depressive behavior.
Metaphorical Mirrors: Aesthetic Reflections from Plato to Nietzsche (and Beyond)
Authors: Halliwell Stephen
Published: November 2024

This article weaves together three main strands: first, the ambiguities of mirror metaphors in relation to concepts of artistic representation and expression; secondly, the double-sided and sometimes paradoxical influence of Plato in this area of aesthetics; thirdly, the need to interpret long-lasting metaphors in the history of ideas not as static figures of speech but as dynamic tropes which shift in sense and implications with changes of context. In constructing and exploring this thematic configuration of mirrors, metaphors, and Plato, the chief concern is to draw out—via a small selection of texts, including passages from Schopenhauer and Nietzsche—some underappreciated complexity in the various classical traditions that have contributed to aesthetics and philosophy of art.
The heart can lie: a preliminary investigation of the role of interoception and theory of mind in deception
Authors: Makowski Dominique , Lau Zen J. , Pham Tam , Te An Shu , Kirk Stephanie , Liauw Claudia , Chen S. H. Annabel
Published: November 2024

While a large part of the deception literature focuses on lying detection, the factors contributing to one’s ability to lie remain unclear. The present study examined the contribution of Theory of Mind (ToM) and interoception on our ability to lie using a directed lie paradigm with two conditions (“Interrogation” and “Polygraph”), designed to enhance each of the two mechanisms. Given the relatively small sample size (n = 26 × 40 trials), special steps were taken to avoid false positives. Our results suggest that various facets of interoceptive abilities are positively related to the self-rated confidence in one’s own lies, especially when under the belief that bodily signals are being monitored (i.e., in the “Polygraph” condition). Beyond providing evidence for the role of the body in lying and raising interesting questions for deception science, these results carry practical implications for criminology and lie detection protocols.
Solitary Peutz–Jeghers polyp harboring a focus of high-grade dysplasia in the colon: a case report and literature review
Authors: Maeda Takato , Yoshizawa Tadashi , Oyama Takao , Nakagawa Satoru , Murai Yasuhisa , Machida Ryuma , Ishidoya Nao , Sakamoto Juichi , Iwamura Hideki , Sakuraba Hirotake
Published: November 2024

A solitary Peutz–Jeghers (PJ) polyp is a rare hamartomatous lesion without an associated PJ syndrome. However, little is known regarding malignancy arising in solitary PJ polyps. Here, we report a case of a solitary colonic PJ polyp with focal dysplasia. A 45-year-old asymptomatic man underwent total colonoscopy following a positive fecal occult blood test. The patient had no history of mucocutaneous pigmentation or family history of PJ syndrome. A 20 mm erythematous pedunculated polyp was observed in the sigmoid colon. Magnified endoscopy revealed a tubular or branch-like pit pattern with localized areas of irregular pits. These findings were suggestive of colorectal adenoma with high-grade dysplasia, and endoscopic mucosal resection was performed. Histopathological examination revealed arborizing proliferation of hyperplastic epithelia with smooth muscle bundles. In addition, a small number of irregular crypts with high-grade dysplasia were observed in the hyperplastic epithelium. Based on these histological findings, we finally diagnosed the patient with a solitary colonic PJ polyp with high-grade dysplasia. The present case suggests that solitary colonic PJ polyps may harbor dysplastic changes and require pathological evaluation with en bloc resection of the polyps.
Generation of human induced pluripotent stem cell lines derived from patients of cystic biliary atresia
Authors: Ge Ningxin , Suzuki Kan , Sato Iori , Noguchi Michiya , Nakamura Yukio , Matsuo-Takasaki Mami , Fujishiro Jun , Hayashi Yohei
Published: November 2024

Biliary atresia (BA), resulting from abnormal development of the liver’s internal or external bile ducts, can lead to liver damage and potentially fatal cirrhosis. Type I cystic biliary atresia is a relatively uncommon, but clinically significant variant of BA. It is critical to develop experimental models of BA to examine the etiology and pathogenesis, which remain elusive, and to develop future therapeutics. Here, we have successfully generated a panel of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) from five Japanese patients carrying type I cystic BA. These hiPSC lines exhibited characteristics of self-renewal and pluripotency. These cells held normal karyotypes mostly, but one of them carried hemizygous deletions, the clinical significance of which is unknown yet. Whole genome sequence analysis indicated that some of the mutations or single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) commonly found in these patients are related to hepatobiliary abnormality. Given the limited understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of cystic BA, attributed to unknown factors of genetic and environmental causes, these cellular resources will be instrumental in replicating disease phenotypes and in advancing novel therapies for this disease.
Process–Material–Performance Trade-off Exploration of Materials Sintering with Machine Learning Models
Authors: Kakanuru Padmalatha , Terway Prerit , Jha Niraj , Pochiraju Kishore
Published: November 2024

Process-induced porosity, defects, and residual stresses lead to mechanical performance degradation in fiber-reinforced composite and other heterogeneous structures. Physical and chemical processes create complex process–material–performance relationships. Predicting porosity and residual stresses in this context requires computationally burdensome forward simulations and obtaining optimal process settings and calibrating properties of new materials requires solving inverse problems with predictions from the forward simulations. In this paper, we parameterized the process–material–performance space and created a dataset based on physics models that are valid for sintering ceramic powders. The dataset was used to train several machine learning models that captured the process–material–performance relationships. The trained ML models were applied in process optimization, calibration of properties for new material systems, and estimating performance for a given process and material. Support vector regression (SVR), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), and a Gaussian mixture model (GMM) called REPAIRS were selected, and their prediction accuracy was determined. While the SVR and CNN models require training several models, we show that the GMM model captures the process–material–performance relationships with a single machine-learned model and partial system completion methods. The paper describes root-mean-square error and mean absolute percentage errors of the inferences from the models on a validation dataset.
Ideal Bi-Based Hybrid Anode Material for Ultrafast Charging of Sodium-Ion Batteries at Extremely Low Temperatures
Authors: Bai Jie , Jia Jian Hui , Wang Yu , Yang Chun Cheng , Jiang Qing
Published: November 2024

Sodium-ion batteries have emerged as competitive substitutes for low-temperature applications due to severe capacity loss and safety concerns of lithium-ion batteries at − 20 °C or lower. However, the key capability of ultrafast charging at ultralow temperature for SIBs is rarely reported. Herein, a hybrid of Bi nanoparticles embedded in carbon nanorods is demonstrated as an ideal material to address this issue, which is synthesized via a high temperature shock method. Such a hybrid shows an unprecedented rate performance (237.9 mAh g−1 at 2 A g−1) at − 60 °C, outperforming all reported SIB anode materials. Coupled with a Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, the energy density of the full cell can reach to 181.9 Wh kg−1 at − 40 °C. Based on this work, a novel strategy of high-rate activation is proposed to enhance performances of Bi-based materials in cryogenic conditions by creating new active sites for interfacial reaction under large current.
Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy in pediatrics: the role of antimicrobial stewardship
Authors: Trisno Daniel J. , Puckett Lauren , Jensen Alexandria , Schwenk Hayden T.
Published: November 2024

This study characterized outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) orders and associated antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) pharmacist recommendations made in a freestanding children’s hospital. Recommendations occurred in over 50% of orders, indicating an opportunity for the review of OPAT by ASP pharmacists.
The Use-Life of Ancestors: Neolithic Cranial Retention, Caching and Disposal at Masseria Candelaro, Apulia, Italy
Authors: Thompson Jess E. , Panella Sofia , Soncin Silvia , McLaughlin Rowan , Muntoni Italo Maria , Alhaique Francesca , Candilio Francesca , Sperduti Alessandra , Knüsel Christopher J. , Tafuri Mary Anne , Robb John E.
Published: November 2024

When archaeologists discuss ‘ancestor cults’ or ‘ancestor veneration’, what this might entail in practice usually remains vague, leading to charges that the concept of ‘ancestors’ is often applied generically. In this article, the authors combine bioarchaeological, taphonomic, radiocarbon, and isotopic studies to explore the ritual practice of the selective retention, curation, and deposition of a group of human crania and mandibles. Between 5500–5400 bc, Neolithic people at Masseria Candelaro (Puglia, Italy) deposited broken crania and mandibles from about fifteen individuals in a heap in the centre of the village. These individuals were mostly probable males, collected over the course of two centuries and actively used, with their deposition marking the final disposal of a ritual collection. The motivations for the curation of cranial bone are investigated through comparison with archaeological and ethnographic examples, advancing an interpretation of ritual practice directed towards ancestors.
On invariant measures of ‘satellite’ infinitely renormalizable quadratic polynomials
Authors: LEVIN GENADI , PRZYTYCKI FELIKS
Published: November 2024

Let

$f(z)=z^2+c$

be an infinitely renormalizable quadratic polynomial and

$J_\infty $

be the intersection of forward orbits of ‘small’ Julia sets of its simple renormalizations. We prove that if f admits an infinite sequence of satellite renormalizations, then every invariant measure of

$f: J_\infty \to J_\infty $

is supported on the postcritical set and has zero Lyapunov exponent. Coupled with [13], this implies that the Lyapunov exponent of such f at c is equal to zero, which partly answers a question posed by Weixiao Shen.
Hydrodynamic forces on a side-by-side ellipse pair with and without relative motion
Authors: Rhodes Preston , van Rees Wim M.
Published: November 2024

Motivated by flow interactions in schooling biological swimmers as well as in unmanned underwater vehicle fleets, we investigate the flow past two identical 6 : 1 ellipses using two-dimensional simulations at Reynolds numbers of

$\mathcal {O}(10^3)$

. When both ellipses move at the same velocity, overall drag reductions of 10 %–20 % can be achieved in staggered formations, with the strongest drag reductions occurring at the smallest lateral distances. In side-by-side configurations, the drag on both bodies increases by 10 %–20 %. Lift coefficients are repulsive and up to four times larger than the total drag coefficients. During overtaking manoeuvres, increasing the relative speed of the overtaking ellipse predominantly affects the forces on the overtaken ellipse. The mean drag force on the overtaken ellipse increases with increasing speed difference. Mean lift forces during the overtaking manoeuvre are repulsive for both bodies; as the speed difference increases, the repulsive force increases on the overtaken body and decreases on the overtaking body. Overall, these results highlight that the lateral forces in hydrodynamic interactions between bodies in formation dominate the hydrodynamic interactions. Further, the results indicate that future work is needed to investigate how viscous and three-dimensional effects change the lateral forces between side-by-side submerged bodies.