bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Sulfuric Acid-Water Immersion on the Properties of Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, Thermoplastic Vulcanizates, and Eco-Friendly Thermoplastic Vulcanizates
Authors: Foltuț Daniel , Pospisil Jan , Pascal Dragoș-Toader 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This research investigates the impact of sulfuric acid-water solutions on the physico-chemical characteristics of ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM), thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV), and ECO TPV materials. We evaluated the deterioration of these materials by subjecting them to acidic environments and using methods such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), volume and weight measurements, hardness measures, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The samples were submerged in solutions of H2SO4 with concentrations of 1M, 0.1M, and 0.001M at a temperature of 90°C for a duration of 1000 h. The results indicated that EPDM had superior chemical and thermal stability, accompanied by negligible changes in weight and volume. The TPV exhibited moderate stability, however the ECO TPV showed severe deterioration, as seen by major increases in weight and volume, as well as notable changes in DSC profiles. Surface degradation and cracking, especially in ECO TPV samples, were observed using SEM investigation. The hardness results indicated little changes in hardness after exposure to the various chemical aging techniques. The results indicate that EPDM and TPV are better suited for use in acidic conditions, such as fuel-cell systems. However, ECO TPV may need extra stabilization in order to enhance its endurance.
Parliamentary dimension of the Council presidency: Testing a research framework through the case of the 2016 Dutch rotating presidency of the EU
Authors: Nováková Tereza 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Measuring the level of parliamentary involvement in European Union (EU) affairs cannot be undertaken without any reference to the parliamentary dimension, an integral part of the 6-month rotating presidency of member states in the EU. The parliamentary dimension encompasses all activities performed by the presidency parliament, playing a crucial role in shaping EU decision-making processes. Although a recently published study by Kaniok and Nováková has addressed for the first time the theoretical groundwork for studying this phenomenon, their proposed research framework has not yet been applied to a specific case. This study addresses this gap by applying the framework to the Dutch presidency of the Council of the EU in 2016, evaluating its effectiveness, and refining it to ensure broader applicability. By doing so, it not only validates the framework but also enhances its potential for enabling comparisons of national parliaments across presidencies, facilitating the exchange of best practices, and developing a typology of national parliaments’ roles in the EU presidency.
Correction of Microtia with Constricted Ear Features Using Helix Costal Cartilage Scaffold and Postauricular Flap Advancement
Authors: Wang Chenglong , Gao Dejin , Luo Pan , Wang Yue , Zhang Qingguo 
Published: November 2024

Background:
Microtia with constricted ear features represents a challenging congenital deformity characterized by the variable shape and large volume of the remnant cartilage and skin involved. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a method using helix costal cartilage scaffold and postauricular flap advancement for the correction.

Methods:
This retrospective study analyzed the clinical and postoperative data of 121 patients diagnosed with microtia and constricted ear features, treated at our institution between January 2020 and January 2023. All patients underwent helix reconstruction using the eighth or ninth costal cartilage combined with postauricular flap advancement. Outcomes were assessed based on the incidence of postoperative complications and auricular aesthetic scores. The aesthetic evaluation of the reshaped auricle was based on a four-point Likert scale (i.e. 1 = poor, 2 = fair, 3 = good, 4 = excellent).

Results:
The postoperative follow-up period ranged from 12 months to 3 years (mean 18.5 months). All patients achieved successful helix expansion, with reconstructed ears showing improved symmetry and shape comparable to the contralateral normal ears. The average aesthetic score was 3.4 out of 4. Complications included suture exposure in 8.3% of cases and cartilage protrusion in 4.1%, both managed without significant issues. There were no instances of skin necrosis, costal cartilage exposure, or infection.

Conclusions:
The combination of helix costal cartilage scaffold and postauricular advancing flap offers a reliable and effective method for correcting microtia with constricted ear features, providing satisfactory aesthetic outcomes with minimal complications.
The Persistence of Biologic Therapies for Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Jasmen Magdalena , García Dominga , Ibáñez Sebastián , Díaz Pamela 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Drug persistence is a crucial measure of long-term efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction. Lack of persistence can increase healthcare costs and morbidity and mortality rates. This review aimed to consolidate available data on drug persistence for various biological treatments used as the primary intervention for psoriatic arthritis and identify factors associated with nonpersistence. Reports indicate variable 1-year persistence rates for biologic therapies, ranging from 37% to 73%. Specifically, tumor necrosis factor inhibitors have shown fluctuating 1-year persistence rates ranging from 32% to 85%. IL-12/23 and IL-23 inhibitors demonstrate persistence rates of 25% to 89%, whereas data for IL-17 and JAK inhibitors are more limited, ranging from 51% to 77%. Factors such as female sex and a higher burden of comorbidities have been associated with an increased risk of nonpersistence, although evidence regarding other factors remains scarce. The significant variability in reported persistence rates may be attributed to differences in treatment gaps and methodologies across studies. Addressing and mitigating the factors leading to nonpersistence is essential for improving treatment outcomes in psoriatic arthritis.
Wastewater sequencing from a rural community enables identification of widespread adaptive mutations in a SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant
Authors: Conway Michael J. , Novay Michael P. , Pusch Carson M. , Ward Avery S. , Abel Jackson D. , Williams Maggie R. , Uzarski Rebecca L. , Alm Elizabeth W. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundCentral Michigan University (CMU) participated in a state-wide wastewater monitoring program starting in 2021. One rural site consistently produced higher concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 genome copies. Samples from this site were sequenced retrospectively and exclusively contained a derivative of Alpha variant lineage B.1.1.7 that shed from the same site for 20-28 months.ResultsComplete reconstruction of each SARS-CoV-2 open reading frame (ORF) and alignment to an early B.1.1.7 clinical isolate identified novel mutations that were selected in non-structural (nsp1, nsp2, nsp3, nsp4, nsp5/3CLpro, nsp6, RdRp, nsp15, nsp16, ORF3a, ORF6, ORF7a, and ORF7b) and structural genes (Spike, M, and N). These were rare mutations that have not accumulated in clinical samples worldwide. Mutational analysis revealed divergence from the reference Alpha variant lineage sequence over time. We present each of the mutations on available structural models and discuss the potential role of these mutations during a chronic infection.ConclusionsThis study further supports that small wastewater treatment plants can enhance resolution of rare events and facilitate reconstruction of viral genomes due to the relative lack of contaminating sequences and identifies mutations that may be associated with chronic infections.
Evolution of antiviral resistance captures a transient interdomain functional interaction between chikungunya virus envelope glycoproteins
Authors: Battini Leandro , Thannickal Sara A , Cibello Malena Tejerina , Bollini Mariela , Stapleford Kenneth A , Álvarez Diego E 
Published: November 2024

AbstractEnvelope proteins drive virus and host-cell membrane fusion to achieve virus entry. Fusogenic proteins are classified into structural classes that function with remarkable mechanistic similarities. Fusion proceeds through coordinated movements of protein domains in a sequence of orchestrated steps. Structures for the initial and final conformations are available for several fusogens, but folding intermediates have largely remained unresolved and interdependency between regions that drive conformational rearrangements is not well understood. Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) particles display heterodimers of envelope proteins E1 and E2 associated as trimeric spikes that respond to acidic pH to trigger fusion. We have followed experimental evolution of CHIKV under the selective pressure of a novel small-molecule entry inhibitor. Mutations arising from selection mapped to two residues located in distal domains of E2 and E1 heterodimer and spikes. Here, we pinpointed the antiviral mode of action to inhibition of fusion. Phenotypic characterization of recombinant viruses indicated that the selected mutations confer a fitness advantage under antiviral pressure, and that the double-mutant virus overcame antiviral inhibition of fusion while single-mutants were sensitive. Further supporting a functional connection between residues, the double-mutant virus displayed a higher pH-threshold for fusion than single-mutant viruses. Finally, mutations implied distinct outcomes of replication and spreading in mice, and infection rates in mosquitoes underscoring the fine-tuning of envelope protein function as a determinant for establishment of infection. Together with molecular dynamics simulations that indicate a link between these two residues in the modulation of the heterodimer conformational rearrangement, our approach captured an otherwise unresolved interaction.ImportanceCHIKV is a reemergent pathogen that has caused large outbreaks in the twenty years. There are no available antiviral therapies and a vaccine has only recently been approved. Here, we describe the mode of action of a novel inhibitor designed against CHIKV envelope proteins heterodimer that blocks entry at the stage of fusion between virus and host membranes. Fusion is common to the entry of enveloped viruses. Virus envelope proteins drive fusion undergoing a series of transitions from an initial metastable conformational state to a more stable post-fusion state. Intermediate conformations are transient and have mostly remained inaccessible to structure determination. In this study, directed evolution of resistance to antiviral inhibition of fusion uncovered a functional interaction between two residues residing in domains that are apart in both the pre-fusion and post-fusion states. Thus, our approach allowed gaining insight into the molecular detail of the inner working of virus fusion machinery.
The effect of social media engagement on telemedicine adoption: an empirical study
Authors: Dass Jhanvi , Yeravdekar Rajiv , Singh Ankit 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aims to assess the collective impact of social media engagement and anxiety due to COVID-19 on telemedicine adoption intentions with other constructs of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) concerning anxiety linked to COVID-19 and the influence of privacy concerns on TAM constructs. These constructs encompass the perception of ease of use, perceived usefulness, one’s attitude toward telemedicine and the intention to utilize telemedicine.

Design/methodology/approach
A total of 178 comprehensive responses were gathered over a six-month period from residents in Mumbai, India, to examine the proposed model. The data was analyzed using software tools, including SPSS version 23 and IBM AMOS 21, to compute factor loadings, assess model fit, estimate path relationships and conduct hypothesis testing.

Findings
Privacy concerns with telemedicine usage had a significant negative impact on behavioral engagement (B = −0.20, SE = 0.08, p < 0.05) and positively impacted affective engagement (B = 0.25, SE = 0.06, p < 0.01). Similarly, anxiety due to COVID-19 had a negative impact on the perceived usefulness of telemedicine (B = −0.10, SE = 0.03, p < 0.05).

Research limitations/implications
This research addresses a void in the existing literature by merging the TAM and the Social Media engagement theory. This study reaffirms the impact of past and relevant experiences, privacy concerns and COVID-19-induced anxiety on various components of TAM, thus expanding and enriching the TAM model.

Practical implications
Healthcare administrators should implement strategies to alleviate privacy-related apprehensions associated with telemedicine platforms. Additionally, they should promote existing users to create and disseminate positive content to mitigate COVID-19-induced anxiety and foster meaningful engagement, thereby enhancing the willingness to adopt telemedicine.

Social implications
Providers and promoters of telemedicine platforms and services may lean toward employing digital marketing campaigns that rely on emotional persuasion, including tapping into the fear factor to boost subscription and service sales. Such practices raise ethical questions, underscoring the need for well-defined advertising standards to govern the marketing of these products.

Originality/value
This article is among the relatively rare studies that document the favorable influence of emotional engagement on the intention to utilize telemedicine, underscoring the significant role of emotions in shaping telemedicine adoption Intentions.
Subjective well-being and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hungary
Authors: Xu Feifei 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine the impact of COVID-19 pandemics on subjective well-being (SWB) and mental health in Hungary, with a particular focus on the roles of socioeconomic and COVID-19-related factors in shaping these outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 2,000 Hungarian adults from May 25 to June 8, 2021. The data was collected using standardized questionnaires, including the SWLS, GAD-7 and PHQ-9. Correlation analysis, one-way ANOVA and linear regression were used.

Findings
The study found significant anxiety (41.5%), depression (48.1%) and life dissatisfaction (41.9%) among 2,000 participants. Females reported higher anxiety and depression than males. Single individuals had the lowest life satisfaction. Higher income levels are correlated with greater life satisfaction. Quarantine and vaccination were linked to higher life satisfaction and lower psychological distress. The regression showed that older age, being married and higher income were linked to lower depression and anxiety. Severity of infection and quarantine increased both depression and anxiety. Infection reduced life satisfaction, but severe cases showed a slight improvement in satisfaction, highlighting complex health and well-being relationships.

Practical implications
The findings reveal complex relationships, including unexpected resilience in severe COVID-19 cases.

Originality/value
This study offers insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SWB and mental health in Hungary. By analyzing socioeconomic, demographic and pandemic-related factors in a large sample, it highlights complex relationships between quarantine, infection severity, vaccination and well-being. The findings contribute to understanding how these factors influence mental health, informing targeted interventions during health crises.
Investigating young consumers’ acceptance of hemp fiber textiles and apparel: an analysis of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Zhang Yanbo , Liu Chuanlan , Xia Sibei 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
Concerns over environmental degradation, alongside the global legalization of hemp cultivation, have prompted applications of hemp-derived textile products. However, research examining consumers’ acceptance of such products is lacking. It is critical to understand how young consumers adopt these products as they prioritize sustainability and lead the future purchasing power. Thus, this study aims to investigate young consumers’ perceptions, attitudes, and purchase intentions regarding hemp fiber textiles and clothing based on the Theory of Consumption Value and the Spiral of Silence Theory.

Design/methodology/approach
A US-based research company was hired to recruit survey participants, yielding 314 valid data. Data analysis, including Exploratory Factor Analysis and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, was conducted using the R programming language and RStudio software.

Findings
Purchase intentions of hemp-based clothing and textiles among young consumers are influenced by attitude, perceived social value and future trend perception. Perceived social value also impacts attitude and future trend perception. High environmental involvement correlates with positive attitudes. Consumers’ subjective knowledge of hemp and objective knowledge regarding hemp fiber impact their perceptions of future trends in such products.

Originality/value
This research represents a seminal consumer study focusing on the resurgence of industrial hemp fiber textiles and clothing. This study empirically validates the significant role of social factors in young consumer acceptance of such products at both personal and societal levels. This study expands current knowledge and provides actionable insights for practitioners.
Aligning the new work environment with OECD Goal 8: a design case of a global automobile brand from Turkey
Authors: Sunar Bukulmez Pınar , Girginkaya Akdag Suzan , Ekin Gamze 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the economic sustainability of new work environments by exploring how interior design strategies can contribute to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, which focuses on decent work and economic growth. SDG 8 aims to foster sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic development, as well as full and productive employment.

Design/methodology/approach
The pilot study was conducted at a global automobile brand’s largest facility in Kocaeli/Turkey, where 102 employees participated in stakeholder meetings divided into 18 groups. Additionally, 46 employees were interviewed through focus groups and one-on-one sessions across nine encounters. The collected data were analyzed using deductive thematic analysis, interpreting codes and themes related to spatial politics, timing politics and hybrid working culture in the new work environment.

Findings
Identified themes include individually focused tasks, virtual collaboration, agile working, socialization and urban interaction. These themes are then traced through the conceptual design proposal developed by the interior design team and discussed in relation to their alignment with SDG 8.2 (diversify, innovate and upgrade for economic productivity), SDG 8.4 (improve resource efficiency in consumption and production) and SDG 8.8 (protect labor rights and promote safe and secure working environments for all workers).

Research limitations/implications
These three targets (for inclusivity and innovation, for environmentally sustainable and for employee well-being) were selected for their relevance in shaping the physical work environment.

Originality/value
The key finding of this paper is the need for a deeper understanding of economic sustainability in interior design and the contribution of SDG 8 targets on the spatial, temporal and cultural dimensions of new work environments. Brands committed to sustainability must adopt new work models and reimagine their work environments to enhance employee satisfaction and performance, through comprehensive user research and design solutions aligned with SDG 8.
Prediction of electroconvulsive therapy outcome: A network analysis approach
Authors: Blanken Tessa F. , Kok Rob , Obbels Jasmien , Lambrichts Simon , Sienaert Pascal , Verwijk Esmée 
Published: November 2024

AbstractObjectiveWhile electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for the treatment of major depressive disorder is effective, individual response is variable and difficult to predict. These difficulties may in part result from heterogeneity at the symptom level. We aim to predict remission using baseline depression symptoms, taking the associations among symptoms into account, by using a network analysis approach.MethodWe combined individual patient data from two randomized controlled trials (total N = 161) and estimated a Mixed Graphical Model to estimate which baseline depression symptoms (corresponding to HRSD‐17 items) uniquely predicted remission (defined as either HRSD≤7 or MADRS<10). We included study as moderator to evaluate study heterogeneity. For symptoms directly predictive of remission we computed odds ratios.ResultsThree baseline symptoms were uniquely predictive of remission: suicidality negatively predicted remission (OR = 0.75; bootstrapped confidence interval (bCI) = 0.44–1.00) whereas retardation (OR = 1.21; bCI = 1.00–2.02) and hypochondriasis (OR = 1.31; bCI = 1.00–2.25) positively predicted remission. The estimated effects did not differ across trials as no moderation effects were found.ConclusionBy using a network analysis approach this study identified that the presence of suicidal ideation predicts an overall worse treatment outcome. Psychomotor retardation and hypochondriasis, on the other hand, seem to be associated with a better outcome.
Effectiveness of protected areas in the Caucasus Mountains in preventing rangeland degradation
Authors: Ghoddousi Arash , Pratzer Marie , Lewinska Katarzyna E. , Eggers Juliana , Bleyhl Benjamin , Ambarli Hüseyin , Arakelyan Marine , Askerov Elshad , Butsic Van , Ghazaryan Astghik , Lortkipanidze Bejan , Radeloff Volker C. , Kuemmerle Tobias 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAs land use intensifies globally, it increasingly exerts pressure on protected areas. Despite open, nonforested landscapes comprising up to 40% of protected areas globally, assessments have predominately focused on forests, overlooking the major pressures on rangelands from livestock overgrazing and land conversion. Across the southern Caucasus, a biodiversity hotspot extending over 5 countries, we conducted a broadscale assessment of the extent to which protected areas mitigate land‐use pressure on rangelands in them. Using satellite‐based indicators of rangeland vegetation greenness from 1988 to 2019, we assessed the effectiveness of 52 protected areas. This period encompassed the collapse of the Soviet Union, economic crises, armed conflicts, and a major expansion of the protected area network. We applied matching statistics combined with fixed‐effects panel regressions to quantify the effectiveness of protected areas in curbing degradation as indicated by green vegetation loss. Protected areas were, overall, largely ineffective. Green vegetation loss was higher inside than outside protected areas in most countries, except for Georgia and Turkey. Multiple‐use protected areas (IUCN categories IV–VI) were even more ineffective in reducing vegetation loss than strictly protected areas (I & II), highlighting the need for better aligning conservation and development targets in these areas. Mapping >10,000 livestock corrals from satellite images showed that protected areas with a relatively high density of livestock corrals had markedly high green vegetation loss. Ineffectiveness appeared driven by livestock overgrazing. Our key finding was that protected areas did not curb rangeland degradation in the Caucasus. This situation is likely emblematic of many regions worldwide, which highlights the need to incorporate degradation and nonforest ecosystems into effectiveness assessments.