bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PEDOT:PSS as a conductive polymer binder for ecologically and economically sustainable, carbon-free NMC electrodes
Authors: Grygiel Michał , Ratyński Maciej , Czerwiński Andrzej , Hamankiewicz Bartosz 
Published: November 2024

AbstractIn this work new dispersion medium for positive electrode slurries for lithium-ion batteries, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), is proposed, in combination with PEDOT:PSS conductive polymer as a binder. Dispersion of PEDOT:PSS in concentration of 2.5% w/w with anhydrous DMSO is prepared. The electrodes were prepared with NMC622 active material and prepared PEDOT:PSS/DMSO dispersion with and without addition of conductive carbon. SEM imaging with EDS mapping confirms creation of binding film of the polymer on grains of active material. Chronopotentiometry tests of the electrodes in half-cell lithium-ion setup reveal that the best electrochemical performance was achieved for 97.5% active material and 2.5% PEDOT:PSS without conductive carbon addition (ca. 170 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, 90% retention after 51 cycles). PEDOT:PSS enabled the elimination of the conductive carbon additive from the electrode and reduction of the binder content. It resulted in enhancement of the capacity per gram of electrode paste by approximately 17% compared with standard electrode composition.
Explaining presenteeism behaviour with the theory of planned behaviour – a longitudinal study
Authors: Golz Christoph , Hägerbäumer Miriam , Gerlach Maisa , Meichtry André , Kilcher Gablu , Peter Karin Anne , Blozik Eva 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study uses the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to explore presenteeism, where individuals work despite being ill. The research seeks to understand how attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control are associated with presenteeism behaviours.

Methods
A longitudinal design was employed, involving 2814 employees from 16 companies. Data were collected using a survey on two measurement points, which included validated scales and vignettes to assess attitudes toward presenteeism. The data were analysed using cluster analysis and a linear mixed effects regression to evaluate the TPB model.

Results
Three clusters of attitudes toward presenteeism were identified through cluster analysis. The model explained 27.8% of the variance in the fixed effects and 52.6% in the combined fixed and random effects. The regression model found associations between presenteeism and factors such as quantitative demands, work-privacy conflict, and leadership culture. Attitudes towards presenteeism were a strong predictor, with specific clusters showing differing propensities to work while ill.

Conclusion
The study confirms the suitability of the TPB in explaining presenteeism. It highlights the importance of individual attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control in shaping presenteeism. The findings suggest that promoting a health-supportive workplace culture, including open communication about illness, might reduce presenteeism.
A chronological catalog of methods and solutions in the Space–Time Computational Flow Analysis: I. Finite element analysis
Authors: Tezduyar Tayfun E. , Takizawa Kenji 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The Space–Time Computational Flow Analysis (STCFA) started in 1990 with the inception of the Deforming-Spatial-Domain/Stabilized Space–Time (DSD/SST) method. The DSD/SST was introduced as a moving-mesh method for flows with moving boundaries and interfaces, which is a wide class of problems that includes fluid–particle interactions, fluid–structure interactions (FSI), and free-surface and multi-fluid flows. The first 3D computations were reported in 1992. The original DSD/SST method is now called “ST-SUPS,” reflecting its stabilization components. As the STCFA evolved, advanced mesh moving methods, FSI coupling methods, and problem-class-specific methods were introduced to increase its scope and the ST Variational Multiscale was introduced to upgrade its stabilization components to the VMS. Complementary general-purpose methods developed in the evolution of the STCFA include the ST Isogeometric Analysis (ST-IGA) and the ST Slip Interface (ST-SI) and ST Topology Change (ST-TC) methods. The ST-IGA delivers superior accuracy through IGA basis functions not only in space but also in time. The ST-SI enables high-fidelity moving-mesh computations even over meshes made of patches with nonmatching meshes at the interfaces between those patches. The ST-TC enables high-fidelity moving-mesh computations even in the presence of topology changes in the fluid mechanics domain, such as an actual contact between moving solid surfaces. The STCFA brought first-of-its-kind solutions in many classes of problems, ranging from fluid–particle interactions in particle-laden flows to FSI in parachute aerodynamics, flapping-wing aerodynamics of an actual locust to ventricle-valve-aorta flow analysis to car and tire aerodynamics with near-actual geometries, road contact, and tire deformation. With the success we see in so many classes of problems, we can conclude that the STCFA has reached a level of remarkable sophistication, scope, and practical value. We present a chronological catalog of the methods and solutions in the STCFA. In Part I of this two-part article, we focus on the methods and solutions in finite element analysis.
The effect of exergame rehabilitation on the quality of life of cancer patients undergoing abdominal surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Alves Isabel , Moreira Ana Paula , Sousa Teresa , Teles Paulo , Magalhães Bruno Miguel , Goncalves Filipe , Fernandes Carla Silvia 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Exergames, which combine digital games and physical exercise, have become increasingly popular for rehabilitation in the health domain. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of exergame rehabilitation on the quality of life of cancer patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

Methods
This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of exergame rehabilitation on the quality of life of cancer patients who had undergone abdominal surgery. Seventy postoperative patients were included, and data collection took place between January 2023 and May 2023. The patients were randomly assigned to either an exergame rehabilitation program (n = 35) or a traditional rehabilitation program (n = 35). The assessed outcome was the quality of life, and data collection occurred at three different time points: upon admission, 48 h postoperatively, and on the 7th day after surgery.

Results
Quality of life was evaluated using the WHOQOL-BREF Scale. At the third assessment, a statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups (p = 0.016), indicating that the intervention group had a higher quality of life than the control group.

Conclusions
The study showed a positive effect of exergames on the population under investigation. By the 7th day after surgery, the intervention group demonstrated an improvement in their quality of life compared to the control group.

Clinical trial registration
Center of Open Science OSF https://osf.io/286zb/, registered in July, 2023.
Real-world patient experience with medicinal cannabis use for symptom management in an Australian advanced cancer setting: a mixed method, cohort study using the theory of planned behaviour framework
Authors: Ong Jennifer A. , Lo Un Cheng , Musa Hala , Li Jeffery , Gaon Janet , Lacey Judith , Cheung Janet M. Y. , Soriano Michael 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Patient hesitancy to use MC due to the fear of negative social implications leads to intentional non-adherence and compromises therapeutic outcomes. Hence, we aimed to determine the rate of patient adherence to MC and explore factors influencing patient MC use.

Methods
Demographic and quantitative data related to MC usage were extracted from medical records for patients prescribed MC at a single cancer centre in metropolitan Sydney. Qualitative data was generated from semi-structured interviews. Interview guides were developed based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TBP) domains (i.e. Attitudes, Subjective Norms, Behavioural Intention and Perceived Behavioural Control) to elucidate themes influencing MC use. A mixed method approach involving triangulation of quantitative and qualitative methods was used for data analysis.

Results
Twenty patients were included in the study, and the majority of patients showed adherence (n = 14, 70%). The MC formulation used (p = .018), symptom relief (p = .001) and side effects experienced (p = .007) significantly influenced MC adherence. In addition to side effects experienced, findings for barriers to adherence were convergent or complementary for other medication-related factors, including the inconvenience of MC co-administration with food, cost and unpleasant taste.

Conclusions
MC adherence is influenced by its effectiveness for symptom relief whereby appropriate MC formulation selection is crucial and should be determined by the indication (or symptom clusters). Social factors such as the views and experiences of close others had little bearing on MC adherence.
Intensive 2-days training on perfused human placenta for microvascular anastomoses
Authors: Colombo Elisa , Wolf Fabian , Helg Fiona , Höbner Lara , Watson Jennifer A. , Sebök Martina , Haslinger Christian , van Doormaal Tristan , Regli Luca , Esposito Giuseppe 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background and Purpose
We report on an intensive two-day training program on microanastomoses performed on perfused human placenta models. A specific scoring system was elaborated to evaluate the participants’ microsurgical skills and report the participants’ results.

Materials and Methods
Trainees who attended the Zurich Microsurgery Courses in 2023 were included in the study. Before performing the microanastomoses, each participant received a visual didactic training. Training was made on perfused human placenta models. To perform the microvascular anastomoses, vessels of different diameters were chosen, and 9–0 and 10–0 microsutures were used. The course was structured in two days. On day one, participants practiced microvascular dissection, microsuturing and end-to-end anastomoses, while the second day was dedicated to end-to-side and to repeat the most useful microanastomosis depending on the specialty. A score system for the evaluation of a successful microanastomosis was developed and applied to assess the participants’ anastomoses. User satisfaction was measured by means of a survey-based questionnaire.

Results
Fifty-two participants from different institutions, specializations and levels of experience were included. A significant improvement in the overall microsurgical skills of the included cohort was documented (p < 0.005). The initial average score per anastomosis of 3.56 points (SD 0.71) increased to an average of 3.8 points (SD 0.87) at the end of the course. The steepest learning curve was observed in the placement of knots (Δ 0.48 points, p = 0.003) and microvascular dissection (Δ 0.44 points, p = 0.002). Most participants rated the fidelity and importance of the placental microsuturing course as extremely high.

Conclusion
The two-day training program is efficient to teach microvascular dissection and microanastomosis techniques. A significant improvement of participants’ microsurgical skills was reported. The human placenta model proved to be a high-fidelity simulator with great user satisfaction.
An orthogonal approach for analysis of underivatized steroid hormones using ultrahigh performance supercritical fluid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPSFC-MS)
Authors: Devo Perry , Cretu Victoria , Radhakrishnan Harsha , Hamilton-Pink Darren , Boussios Stergios , Ovsepian Saak V. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe crucial role of steroid hormones in health and diseases merits their high-throughput, accurate and affordable measurements in biological specimens. Despite advances in analytical methods, sensing and quantifying steroid hormones remains challenging. Immunoassays offer excellent sensitivity but are inherently labour-intensive, costly, and prone to false positives. Mass spectrometry (MS) has been increasingly utilised, with the main hurdle being the isobaric tendencies of similar analytes, which complicates their separation and accurate quantification. This study compares ultrahigh-performance supercritical fluid chromatography separation (UHPSFC) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) for MS detection. It optimises the column chemistry, temperature, and pressure to provide an operational protocol for the resolution and quantification of analytes. It presents the systematic characterisation of UHPSFC-MS performance by investigating spiked blood samples using Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) and describes the matrix effects associated with MS measurements. Although both separation methods showed adequate resolution, specificity, and retention time, UHPSFC-MS was superior for five out of seven columns tested. With added high-throughput capacities, UHPSFC-MS, thus, offers an optimal solution for the analysis of steroid hormones for research, medical chemistry, and clinical diagnostics.
The microbiota-gut-brain axis: a potential target in the small-molecule compounds and gene therapeutic strategies for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Jiao Fengjuan , Zhou Lincong , Wu Zaixin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Backgrounds
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms. It has been found that intestinal issues usually precede motor symptoms. Microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract can affect central nervous system through the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Accumulating evidence has shown that disturbances in the microbiota-gut-brain axis are linked with PD. Thus, this pathway appears to be a promising therapeutic target for treatment of PD.

Objectives
In this review, we mainly described gut dysbiosis in PD and their underlying mechanisms for mediating neuroinflammation and peripheral immune response in PD pathology and futher discussed the potential small-molecule compounds and genic therapeutic strategies targeting the microbiota-gut-brain axis and their applications in PD.

Conclusions
Studies have found that some small molecule compounds and alterations of inflammation-related genes can improve the motor and non-motor symptoms of PD by improving the microbiota-gut-brain axis, which may provide potentially beneficial drugs and molecular targets for the therapies of PD.
Deep Reinforcement Learning for the Management of the Wall Regeneration Cycle in Wall-Bounded Turbulent Flows
Authors: Cavallazzi Giorgio Maria , Guastoni Luca , Vinuesa Ricardo , Pinelli Alfredo 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe wall cycle in wall-bounded turbulent flows is a complex turbulence regeneration mechanism that remains not fully understood. This study explores the potential of deep reinforcement learning (DRL) for managing the wall regeneration cycle to achieve desired flow dynamics. To create a robust framework for DRL-based flow control, we have integrated the StableBaselines3 DRL libraries with the open-source direct numerical simulation (DNS) solver CaNS. The DRL agent interacts with the DNS environment, learning policies that modify wall boundary conditions to optimise objectives such as the reduction of the skin-friction coefficient or the enhancement of certain coherent structures’ features. The implementation makes use of the message-passing-interface (MPI) wrappers for efficient communication between the Python-based DRL agent and the DNS solver, ensuring scalability on high-performance computing architectures. Initial experiments demonstrate the capability of DRL to achieve drag reduction rates comparable with those achieved via traditional methods, although limited to short time intervals. We also propose a strategy to enhance the coherence of velocity streaks, assuming that maintaining straight streaks can inhibit instability and further reduce skin-friction. Our results highlight the promise of DRL in flow-control applications and underscore the need for more advanced control laws and objective functions. Future work will focus on optimising actuation intervals and exploring new computational architectures to extend the applicability and the efficiency of DRL in turbulent flow management.
A political economy perspective of the constitution of ancient Sparta: conflict resolution, credibility, and stability
Authors: Tridimas George 
Published: November 2024

AbstractUniquely in Ancient Greece the constitution of Sparta provided for two kings from different dynasties reigning simultaneously, an aristocratic upper house, an annually elected board of overseers, an assembly, and a society of warriors to rule over an enslaved neighbouring population. It contributed to Sparta’s elevation to a great power and lasted almost unaltered for five hundred years until the middle of the third century BCE. The paper argues that the intricate constitutional order resolved internal conflicts about income distribution that had plagued Sparta in her early days. The dual kingship was a power sharing arrangement to avoid intra-elite fighting. Constraints on royal power, military organization and conquest of foreign lands secured redistribution to the Spartan poor solving inter-group conflict between the rich and the poor. The checks and balances provided by the constitution served to credibly commit the elite to the settlements. However, the rigidity of the constitution ossified Sparta’s society who could not respond to changing circumstances.
Procedural fairness in algorithmic decision-making: the role of public engagement
Authors: Decker Marie Christin , Wegner Laila , Leicht-Scholten Carmen 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDespite the widespread use of automated decision-making (ADM) systems, they are often developed without involving the public or those directly affected, leading to concerns about systematic biases that may perpetuate structural injustices. Existing formal fairness approaches primarily focus on statistical outcomes across demographic groups or individual fairness, yet these methods reveal ambiguities and limitations in addressing fairness comprehensively. This paper argues for a holistic approach to algorithmic fairness that integrates procedural fairness, considering both decision-making processes and their outcomes. Procedural fairness emphasizes the importance of fair decision-making procedures, which aligns with theories of relational justice that stress the quality of social relations and power dynamics. We highlight the need for substantive procedural fairness to ensure better outcomes and address forward-looking responsibilities. Additionally, we propose leveraging Public Engagement, a core dimension within the well-established Responsible Research and Innovation framework, to enhance procedural fairness in ADM systems. Our contribution underscores the value of Public Engagement in fostering fairer ADM processes, thereby expanding the current focus beyond technical outcome-based approaches to encompass broader procedural considerations.
Genetic diversity of Dalbergia melanoxylon Guill. & Perr. populations in the Ferlo zone (Senegal) using nuclear and chloroplast microsatellite markers
Authors: Ndiaye Lémou , Diallo Adja Madjiguene , Vu Thi Ha Giang , Mueller Markus , Ngom Daouda , Mbaye Tamsir , Gailing Oliver 
Published: November 2024

AbstractDalbergia melanoxylon Guill. & Perr. is a highly valued species in the Ferlo region, and its wood is used for various purposes by local populations, including firewood, service wood, and timber. This multifunctionality has weakened its populations, and it has been identified as threatened in previous research. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic variability of three populations (LC, VC, and YC) along a north–south rainfall gradient, to support the species’ sustainable management and conservation. Eighteen microsatellite markers were used, including eight nuclear (nSSR) and 10 chloroplast (cpSSR) markers, to test their transferability to D. melanoxylon and study the genetic variability. The results showed that all nSSRs and cpSSRs were transferable, however, only five nSSRs and one cpSSR were polymorphic and used in the downstream analysis. Based on the nSSRs, comparatively high, but non-significantly different, genetic variation was found in all populations (LC: He = 0.650, VC: He = 0.674, YC: He = 0.706), however, indications of inbreeding were detected. For the single polymorphic cpSSR, three haplotypes were identified. Haplotype diversity (Hd) varied in LC (Hd = 0.536), VC (Hd = 0.577), and YC (Hd = 0.674). Low to moderate genetic differentiation was observed between populations (Fst nSSR = 0.019 and Fst cpSSR = 0.133) suggesting recent fragmentation of populations that has not yet impacted genetic variation but could become more pronounced in future generations. This finding underscores the need for further research on effective management and conservation strategies for D. melanoxylon populations in the Ferlo region.
Revisiting a Faculty Career Management Life Cycle Model: Anticipating and Navigating Career Transitions in Academic Medicine
Authors: Buer Troy S. , Kutzler Michele A. , Salcedo Abbie , Overholser Barbara , Pollart Susan M. , Spector Nancy D. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCareer management models are valuable tools for faculty pursuing a career in academic medicine. These models help faculty transition through various stages of their careers, including commonly pursued academic advancements from assistant professor to full professor, as well as less common transitions like moving from full-time to part-time status, taking sabbaticals, going on medical leave, or assuming executive leadership roles. The success of faculty members across these stages is influenced by both environmental factors and individual-level characteristics. Recognizing career stages and transitions, as well as the impact of personal and environmental factors on career growth, is crucial. The proposed Faculty Career Self-Management Model (FCSM) provides a visual and descriptive framework to guide individual faculty and the professionals who support them in understanding, preparing for, and navigating career stages and professional transitions to build and sustain meaningful careers in academic medicine. The FCSM serves as a framework to explore, develop, and share best practices in supporting faculty vitality across the career lifespan.
Production and purification of molecular 225Ac at CERN-ISOLDE
Authors: Au M. , Nies L. , Stegemann S. , Athanasakis-Kaklamanakis M. , Cocolios T. E. , Fischer P. , Giesel P. F. , Johnson J. D. , Köster U. , Lange D. , Mougeot M. , Reilly J. , Schlaich M. , Schweiger Ch. , Schweikhard L. , Wienholtz F. , Wojtaczka W. , Düllmann Ch. E. , Rothe S. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe radioactive nuclide 225Ac is one of the few promising candidates for cancer treatment by targeted-$$\alpha$$
α
-therapy, but worldwide production of 225Ac faces significant limitations. In this work, the Isotope Separation On-Line method was used to produce actinium by irradiating targets made of uranium carbide and thorium carbide with 1.4-GeV protons. Actinium fluoride molecules were formed, ionized through electron impact, then extracted and mass-separated as a beam of molecular ions. The composition of the mass-selected ion beam was verified using time-of-flight mass spectrometry, $$\alpha$$
α
- and $$\gamma$$
γ
-ray decay spectrometry. Extracted quantities of $$^{225}\textrm{Ac}^{19}\textrm{F}_2^{+}$$

225

Ac
19

F
2
+

particles per $$\upmu$$
μ
C of incident protons were $$3.9(3)\times 10^7$$

3.9

(
3
)

×

10
7

from a uranium carbide target and $$4.3(4)\times 10^7$$

4.3

(
4
)

×

10
7

for a thorium carbide target. Using a magnetic mass separator, the long-lived contamination 227 Ac is suppressed to $$<5.47\times 10^{-7}$$

<
5.47
×

10

-
7

(95% confidence interval) with respect to 225Ac by activity. Measured rates scale to collections of 108 kBq$$\upmu$$
μ
A$$^{-1}$$

-
1

h$$^{-1}$$

-
1

of directly produced $$^{225}\textrm{Ac}^{19}\textrm{F}_2^{+}$$

225

Ac
19

F
2
+

.