bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Properties of quaternized and cross-linked hydroxyethylcellulose composite films
Authors: Šimkovic Ivan , Gucmann Filip , Dobročka Edmund , Filip Jaroslav , Hricovíni Michal , Dujnič Viera , Mendichi Raniero , Schieroni Alberto Giacometti , Piovani Daniele , Zappia Stefania , Hricovíni Miloš 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAlthough trimetylammonium-2-hydroxypropyl-hydroxyethylcellulose (QHEC) is a well-known polysaccharide material, some of its properties have not been previously studied in detail. Therefore, we applied a combination of multidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) in D2O on hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) and HEC derivatives, and size-exclusion chromatography with multi-angle laser light scattering (SEC-MALS) in carbonate buffer at pH 10; while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), the X-ray diffraction (XRD), the thermogravimetry/differential/differential thermogravimetry (TG/DTG/DTA) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) in film form. SEC-MALS revealed various water-solubility of prepared derivatives: HEC (98%) > CHEC (72%) > QHEC (26%) > QCHEC (14%). Due to its substituents, the HEC macromolecule forms coil structures with varying gyration radii: QHEC (38–260 nm) > QCHEC (10–230 nm) > CHEC (21–100 nm) > HEC (23–50 nm). FTIR analysis of all prepared films confirmed their identical structure compared to that observed in liquid form in D2O. Onset temperatures (OT) of films degradation decreased in order: HEC (222 °C) > QCHEC (162 °C) > CHEC (142 °C) > QHEC (141 °C). The X-ray diffraction confirmed residual crystallinity of cellulose II (CII) in all four types of prepared films and was linked to ~ 2% water-insolubility of HEC derivatives revealed by SEC-MALS. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed significant differences in surface morphology among the four prepared films with surface roughness of: HEC (25 nm) > QCHEC (5.8 nm) > QHEC (4.2 nm) > CHEC (2.8 nm). Various spherical particles were found in case of HEC, circular depressions/holes approximately 4 μm in diameter were observed in case of QHEC. Except for the HEC, all other films showed granular surface probably due to insoluble components. Based on the mechanisms of quaternization and crosslinking and the results of analysis on water-soluble part and films we could assume that there are similarities in structures between the soluble and insoluble products of the reactions.
Solving convex optimization problems via a second order dynamical system with implicit Hessian damping and Tikhonov regularization
Authors: László Szilárd Csaba 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This paper deals with a second order dynamical system with a Tikhonov regularization term in connection to the minimization problem of a convex Fréchet differentiable function. The fact that beside the asymptotically vanishing damping we also consider an implicit Hessian driven damping in the dynamical system under study allows us, via straightforward explicit discretization, to obtain inertial algorithms of gradient type. We show that the value of the objective function in a generated trajectory converges rapidly to the global minimum of the objective function and depending the Tikhonov regularization parameter the generated trajectory converges weakly to a minimizer of the objective function or the generated trajectory converges strongly to the element of minimal norm from the

$$\mathop {\text {argmin}}$$

argmin

set of the objective function. We also obtain the fast convergence of the velocities towards zero and some integral estimates. Our analysis reveals that the Tikhonov regularization parameter and the damping parameters are strongly correlated, there is a setting of the parameters that separates the cases when weak convergence of the trajectories to a minimizer and strong convergence of the trajectories to the minimal norm minimizer can be obtained.
The eroding power of anti-immigrant attitudes for social cohesion in Singapore: more myth than fact?
Authors: Dirksmeier Peter 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis paper analyses the impact of anti-immigrant attitudes on social cohesion in Singapore. The OLS regression models show that anti-immigrant attitudes have a negative influence on social cohesion in all analyses, but this influence is weak and falls behind the ambiguous influence of patriotism. In some of the data, there is a significant difference in social cohesion between the centre and the peripheral districts of Singapore, which can only be attributed to a small extent to composition effects. The results of the analyses thus show that the partially state-led measures for social cohesion in a post-colonial society are indeed effective. However, the multicultural Singaporean society obviously also reacts to cohesion policy measures in a group-specific manner. It is noticeable that social cohesion and an open culture for newcomers cannot be thought of separately. These policies should therefore focus even more strongly than before on social cohesion as societal cohesion.
Effect of second-phase precipitates on deformation microstructure in AA2024 (Al–Cu–Mg): dislocation substructures and stored energy
Authors: Irmer Daniel , Yildirim Can , Sennour Mohamed , Esin Vladimir A. , Moussa Charbel 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The importance of comprehensive multiscale characterisation in advancing our understanding of engineering materials is undeniable but remains a challenging pursuit. Combining complimentary microstructure characterisation techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, electron backscatter diffraction and dark-field X-ray microscopy (DFXM), the formation of deformation microstructures is investigated in presence of shearable and non-shearable hardening precipitates in an industrial aluminium alloy (AA) 2024 (Al–Cu–Mg family). The alloy was used in naturally aged T3 (with shearable co-clusters and Guinier–Preston–Bagaryatsky (GPB) zones) and peak-hardened T8 (with non-shearable S-phase precipitates) states. After cold rolling with thickness reductions varying from 25 to 60% (or corresponding von Mises strain from 0.33 to 1.06), the T8 state revealed a higher sub-boundary density with slightly smaller mean disorientation angle, as compared to those in the T3 state. At a von Mises strain of 0.33, the T8 state exhibited higher long-range orientation gradients, as compared to the T3 state, for higher strain orientation gradients in T3 surpass those in T8 state. With DFXM, distinct 3D substructures are shown, revealing ellipsoidal sub-grains in the T8 state and pancake-like sub-grains in the T3 state. Moreover, the stored energy induced by cold rolling is higher for the T8 state. These results indicate different deformation microstructures, formed in the same AA2024 but hardened by shearable and non-shearable precipitates.

Graphical abstract
Analysis of hydrodynamics and thermal–hydraulic performance of twisted angle fins within an annular conduit
Authors: Haw W. , Oon C. S. , Lau E. V. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This paper investigated the influence of various twisted angles of fin inserts integrated on the inner heated pipe wall of a double-pipe heat exchanger by analysing the thermal–hydraulic performance through numerical simulations. Results showed twisted angle fin (TAF) induced turbulent fluid flow phenomena, generating transverse and longitudinal vortices, along with swirling flow. This collaboration between the vortices and swirling flow effectively prevents heat trapping and enhances heat transfer from the inner pipe wall through the intensive fluid mixing. Despite longitudinal swirling vortices and turbulence significantly enhance local and global heat transfer performance, they led to increased pressure drop. However, TAF twisting reduces pressure drop by streamlining flow. The performance evaluation criterion (PEC) value is a dimensionless quantity that facilitates the comprehensive evaluation of optimal configurations by comparing the increment in Nusselt number and the increment in friction factor. PEC values greater than 1 indicate that the increase in Nusselt number exceeded the increase in friction factor. Among tested configurations, the twisted fin angles of 60° (TAF60) exhibited the highest improvement in Nusselt number and friction factor, also achieving the highest PEC of 1.59712 at Reynolds number of 1194.71. TAF40 and TAF50 were identified as optimal configurations for enhancing the thermal–hydraulic efficiency, with average PEC values of 1.26893 and 1.27030, respectively. Overall, the study indicated a consistent enhancement trend with increasing twisted angles and emphasizes the significant thermal performance improvement of TAF configurations compared to the smooth conduit. Furthermore, the results showed a converging tendency across all TAF configurations in the percentage improvement in Nusselt number and friction factor, as well as PEC compared to the baseline No fin configuration with increasing Reynolds number, suggesting that future improvements in thermal–hydraulic performance are more dependent on geometric angles than fluid flow velocity.
Comment on “quantum identity authentication with single photon”
Authors: Li Calsi Davide , Kohl Paul 
Published: October 2024

AbstractA few years ago Hong et al. (Quantum Inf Process 16:236, 2017) proposed a quantum identity authentication protocol using single photons and executable on currently available quantum hardware. Zawadzki later published two attacks on this protocol, and suggested a mitigation in the same work. In this comment we point out an additional vulnerability that causes the prover Alice to leak a percentage of her secret key at every authentication attempt. The latter is due to a problematic policy in the generation and management of decoy states. We conclude by showing a simple mitigation that addresses the issue.
What do we know about abnormally low prolactin levels in polycystic ovary syndrome? A narrative review
Authors: Cera Nicoletta , Pinto Joana , Pignatelli Duarte 
Published: October 2024

AbstractHyper and hypoprolactinemia seem to be related to the occurrence of metabolic alterations in PCOS patients. In contrast, between significantly elevated and significantly low, prolactin levels seem to be protective against metabolic consequences. In the present review, we found 4 studies investigating hypoprolactinemia in patients with PCOS. We also identified 6 additional studies that reported low levels of PRL in PCOS patients. Although its prevalence is not considered high (13.2–13.9%), its contribution is certainly significant to the metabolic alterations observed in PCOS (insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and fatty liver disease). Dopamine inhibits the secretion of prolactin and GnRH. If dopamine levels are low or the dopamine receptor is less expressed or mutated, the levels of prolactin and GnRH increase, and consequently, LH also increases. On the other hand, hyperprolactinemia, in prolactinomas-typical levels, acting through kisspeptin inhibition causes GnRH suppression and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. In situations of hypoprolactinemia due to excessive dopamine agonist treatment, dosage reduction is important to minimize the decrease in prolactin levels. Nevertheless, there is a lack of prospective studies confirming these hypotheses, as well as randomized clinical trials with appropriate drugs targeting both hyperprolactin and hypoprolactin in patients with PCOS.
Otolith growth chronologies reveal distinct environmental sensitivities between and within shallow- and deep-water snappers
Authors: Widdrington Joseph B. , Reis-Santos Patrick , Morrongiello John R. , Macdonald Jed I. , Wakefield Corey B. , Newman Stephen J. , Nicol Simon J. , Gillanders Bronwyn M. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Fish growth underpins individual fitness and population-level metrics, with fluctuations linked to environmental variability. Growth chronologies derived from otolith increment analysis are a powerful proxy to understand population responses to environmental change and productivity. Yet, long-term patterns of growth and their environmental drivers are better understood for shallow-water species compared to deep-water inhabitants. Additionally, focus is largely on adults, disregarding the potential influence of juvenile growth which is critical to size- and age-at-maturity. Here, we investigate the long-term growth patterns of two commercially important snapper species separated by depth in northwestern Australia’s coastal shelf waters, the shallow-water Lutjanus sebae (70 year chronology, 1950–2020) and the deep-water Etelis boweni (41 year chronology, 1973–2013). Annually-resolved otolith growth chronologies revealed distinct environmental sensitivities within (juveniles vs adults) and among (shallow- vs deep-water habitats) species. Within species, juveniles and adults responded differently to shared environmental stimuli, highlighting the importance of understanding the impacts of environmental effects and sensitivities for different life-history stages. Across species, L. sebae exhibited highly variable growth tied to local climate signals such as sea surface temperature and rainfall, while E. boweni displayed more stable growth patterns that only responded to interannual and decadal shifts in the environment (e.g. Pacific Decadal Oscillation). Our results highlight potential vulnerabilities of shallow-water species to future environmental perturbations compared to species residing at depth, as they are likely to encounter more extreme climate variability under future oceanic conditions. This study contributes valuable insights into understanding and managing the impacts of future environmental variability on fisheries sustainability, emphasising the need for continued research across species and habitats.
Selenium efficiency in protecting sperm quality and testicular parameters of South African indigenous Zulu rams exposed to heat stress
Authors: Lekola Khomotso P. M. , Ngcobo Mthobisi S. , Lehloenya Khoboso C. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe study investigated selenium’s (Se) efficiency in preserving South African Zulu rams’ sperm quality and testicular parameters when they were exposed to heat stress. Indigenous Zulu rams (20) between 2 and 5 years old were allocated into four groups, namely the Se, testicular heat stress (THS), selenium plus testicular heat stress (SeTHS), and control. Each group comprised five rams; the groups were balanced according to the rams’ body weight and scrotal circumference. The Se and SeTHS groups received sodium selenite orally bi-weekly for 5 months. To induce heat stress, testicular heat insulation bags were wrapped around the testes of the rams receiving the THS and SeTHS treatments for 49 days. Semen was collected from the rams weekly from the third month onward; the first two months were for Se & THS acclimatization. In addition, testicular measurements were taken bi-weekly. Analysis of variance was used to analyze the sperm quality data. Duncan’s multiple range test was used to compare the groups’ data for significant differences. The results showed that the Se-supplemented rams’ scrotal circumference was smaller (p < 0.05) compared with the other groups. The Se, SeTHS, and control groups demonstrated similar total sperm motility; in contrast, the THS and SeTHS groups recorded low and high total sperm motility, respectively, compared with other treatment groups (p < 0.05). The semen from the rams that received THS without Se displayed a significantly higher number of immotile sperm cells (p < 0.05) and poor sperm quality, including total and progressive motility, and kinematic parameters when compared with other treatments, suggesting that Se protects sperm against THS. We concluded that selenium protected some sperm parameters (TSM, PSM, MV, VCL, VSL) of THS- treated rams while others did not improve (RV, NSM, C, STR).
Insider trading in discrete time Kyle games
Authors: Kühn Christoph , Lorenz Christopher 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWe present a new discrete time version of Kyle’s (Econometrica 53(6):1315–1335, 1985) classic model of insider trading, formulated as a generalised extensive form game. The model has three kinds of traders: an insider, random noise traders, and a market maker. The insider aims to exploit her informational advantage and maximise expected profits while the market maker observes the total order flow and sets prices accordingly. First, we show how the multi-period model with finitely many pure strategies can be reduced to a (static) social system in the sense of Debreu (Proc Natl Acad Sci 38(10):886–893, 1952) and prove the existence of a sequential Kyle equilibrium, following Kreps and Wilson (Econometrica 50(4):863–894, 1982). This works for any probability distribution with finite support of the noise trader’s demand and the true value, and for any finite information flow of the insider. In contrast to Kyle (1985) with normal distributions, equilibria exist in general only in mixed strategies and not in pure strategies. In the single-period model we establish bounds for the insider’s strategy in equilibrium. Finally, we prove the existence of an equilibrium for the game with a continuum of actions, by considering an approximating sequence of games with finitely many actions. Because of the lack of compactness of the set of measurable price functions, standard infinite-dimensional fixed point theorems are not applicable.
Clinical usefulness of four-dimensional dynamic ventilation CT for borderline resectable locally advanced esophageal cancer
Authors: Oda Shioto , Kuno Hirofumi , Fujita Takeo , Hiyama Takashi , Kotani Daisuke , Kadota Tomohiro , Sakashita Shingo , Kobayashi Tatsushi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of four-dimensional dynamic ventilation CT (4DCT) for assessing resectability in borderline resectable locally advanced esophageal cancer (BR-LAEC) and confirmed the pathological validity of the 4DCT results in surgery without prior treatment.

Materials and methods
We retrospectively reviewed 128 patients (107 men; median age, 68 [range, 43–89] years) diagnosed with BR-LAEC on initial conventional CT (i-CT). These patients were initially classified into three categories: BR1 (closer to resectable), BR2 (resectability not assessable), or BR3 (closer to unresectable). Subsequent 4DCT reclassified patients as either resectable or unresectable within 1 week of i-CT. We analyzed the diagnostic shift induced by 4DCT. Additionally, 18 patients who underwent surgery without prior treatment were evaluated using 4DCT and pathological outcomes.

Results
4DCT reclassified patients with BR-LAEC as resectable (57.0%; 73/128) and unresectable (43.0%; 55/128). Of 53 patients initially classified as BR1, 32.1% (17/53) were reclassified as unresectable, and of 47 patients initially classified as BR3, 46.8% (22/47) were reclassified as resectable. Among 28 patients initially classified as BR2, 53.6% (15/27) were reclassified as resectable and 46.4% (13/27) as unresectable. In the surgery-only cohort of 18 patients, 9 were initially classified as BR1 and 9 as BR2, and all were reclassified as resectable. These patients were pathologically confirmed to have resectable disease.

Conclusions
4DCT may provide information complementary to that provided by initial conventional CT in assessing resectability among patients with BR-LAEC, and could be a useful adjunct tool for guiding clinical decisions in this patient population.
Maintenance Therapy Post-Stem Cell Transplantation for Patients with T-Cell Lymphomas
Authors: Braunstein Zachary , Brammer Jonathan E. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
Given the poor outcomes for peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL), stem cell transplant (SCT) remains an important therapeutic approach. Post-SCT relapse is common and maintenance therapy post-SCT is increasingly being utilized. Here we review the use of post-SCT maintenance therapy for PTCL patients.

Recent Findings
Maintenance therapy is increasingly utilized to decrease post-SCT relapse and improve outcomes in PTCL. Ongoing and completed post-SCT maintenance trials utilizing agents such as romidepsin, brentuximab vedotin, duvelisib, and pembrolizumab have shown efficacy in decreasing relapse. Further, additional agents with efficacy in PTCL have emerged that may inform future maintenance approaches.

Summary
Maintenance therapy is a promising approach to maintain response after SCT in PTCL. While several trials are ongoing to evaluate maintenance therapy in PTCL, current data suggests this may be an effective method to decrease post-SCT relapse.
Pathophysiology of Bullous Pemphigoid: Role of Type 2 Inflammation and Emerging Treatment Strategies (Narrative Review)
Authors: Werth Victoria P. , Murrell Dédée F. , Joly Pascal , Heck Renata , Orengo Jamie M. , Ardeleanu Marius , Hultsch Verena 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune blistering disease that most often affects elderly individuals and has a significant negative impact on quality of life. The disease is characterized primarily by autoantibodies to hemidesmosomal proteins BP180 and/or BP230, and an inflammatory reaction with notable features of type 2 inflammation, including elevated serum IgE, increased numbers of eosinophils in lesions and peripheral blood, and elevated expression of type 2 cytokines and chemokines in skin lesions. In this review, we present what is known about BP pathophysiology, including the role of type 2 inflammation, and discuss how findings from studies of biologics targeting type 2 immune mediators have helped to clarify the biological mechanisms driving BP pathophysiology. Future studies of these targeted therapies and others in development will help to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying BP pathophysiology and potentially provide better treatment options for patients.
Potential role of heteroplasmic mitochondrial DNA mutations in modulating the subtype-specific adaptation of oral squamous cell carcinoma to cisplatin therapy
Authors: Aminuddin Amnani , Ng Pei Yuen , Leong Chee Onn , Makpol Suzana , Chua Eng Wee 
Published: October 2024

AbstractCancer cells are constantly evolving to adapt to environmental changes, particularly during exposure to drug treatment. In this work, we aimed to characterize genetic and epigenetic changes in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that may increase the resistance of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) to cisplatin. We first derived drug-resistant cells from two human OSCC cell lines, namely SAS and H103, by continual cisplatin treatments for about 4 months. To determine mtDNA changes induced by cisplatin, we performed nanopore sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of mtDNA extracted from the cells pre- and post-treatment. We also assessed the mitochondrial functions of the cells and their capacity to generate intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). We found that in the cisplatin-resistant cells derived from SAS, there was a reduction in mtDNA content and significant enrichment of a m.3910G > C mutation in the MT-ND1 gene. However, such changes were not detected in cisplatin-resistant H103 cells. The cisplatin treatment also altered methylation patterns in both SAS and H103 cells and decreased their sensitivity to ROS-induced cytotoxicity. We suggest that the sequence alterations and epigenetic changes in mtDNA and the reduction in mtDNA content could be key drivers of cisplatin resistance in OSCC. These mtDNA alterations may participate in cellular adaptation that serves as a response to adverse changes in the environment, particularly exposure to cytotoxic agents. Importantly, the observed mtDNA changes may be influenced by the distinct genetic landscapes of various cancer subtypes. Overall, this study reveals significant insights into cisplatin resistance driven by complex mtDNA dynamics, particularly in OSCC. This underscores the need for targeted therapies tailored to the genetic profiles of individual OSCC patients to improve disease prognosis.