bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Conversion of 5α‐Androstane‐3α,17β‐diol to bis[(4‐dimethylamino)phenyl carbamate] derivative for sensitive determination of its rat brain level by LC/ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Higashi Tatsuya , Tanaka Asuka , Tsubura Shiho , Nishimoto‐Kusunose Shoichi 
Published: July 2024

Rationale5α‐Androstane‐3α,17β‐diol (3α,5α‐Adiol) is a testosterone‐derived neurosteroid and has anxiolytic and analgesic effects via γ‐aminobutyric acid type A receptors as with the progesterone‐derived neurosteroid, allopregnanolone (AP). Although the psychotropic drug‐evoked changes in the brain AP concentration have been intensively studied, those in the brain 3α,5α‐Adiol concentration remain poorly understood. One of the causes for this is the limited availability of a validated method for quantifying the brain 3α,5α‐Adiol with a sufficient sensitivity and specificity, which is described in this study.MethodsTo enhance the detectability of 3α,5α‐Adiol by electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS), derivatization with 4‐dimethylaminobenzoyl azide was employed. The brain sample was purified by solid‐phase extraction and the recovered 3α,5α‐Adiol and the deuterated internal standard were derivatized, then measured by liquid chromatography (LC)/ESI‐MS/MS with selected reaction monitoring.ResultsThe derivatized 3α,5α‐Adiol, i.e., the bis[(4‐dimethylamino)phenyl carbamate] derivative, provided the intense doubly‐protonated molecule as the precursor ion, then the specific product ion containing the 3α,5α‐Adiol‐skeleton by collision‐induced dissociation. The detectability of 3α,5α‐Adiol was eventually increased 1000‐fold by derivatization. Separation of the derivatized 3α,5α‐Adiol from its stereoisomers and interfering brain components was achieved using a SunShell Biphenyl column with an isopropyl alcohol‐containing mobile phase. A good linearity in the sufficient concentration range, acceptable precision and accuracy, and negligible matrix effect were demonstrated by the validation tests. The animal (rat) study using this method revealed that the brain 3α,5α‐Adiol levels were unaffected by the administration of fluoxetine (FLX) and clozapine (CLZ), in contrast to the significant increase of the AP levels.ConclusionAn LC/ESI‐MS/MS method capable of quantifying 3α,5α‐Adiol in the rat brain using a 20‐mg tissue was developed and validated. The brain levels of 3α,5α‐Adiol had an entirely different behavior from those of AP due to FLX and CLZ administration.
A decade of EHF scientific research: Unveiling insights from Alphasat Q/V‐band satellite communication experiments
Authors: Rossi Tommaso , De Sanctis Mauro , Cianca Ernestina , Codispoti Giuseppe , Parca Giorgia , Ruggieri Marina 
Published: July 2024

SummaryIn 2008, the Italian Space Agency (ASI) consolidated its position on research and experiments regarding extremely high frequency (EHF) satellite communication through the proposal to the European Space Agency (ESA) of hosting a Q/V‐band experimental payload on board the Alphasat geostationary satellite. The latter large platform, launched in 2013, thus hosted the so‐called TDP#5 (Technology Demonstration Payload), aimed at performing the first Q/V‐band telecommunication and propagation experimental campaigns. Thanks to the precious contribution given to the definition of the overall mission and the scientific objectives, the payload was then renamed in memory of Professor Aldo Paraboni, pioneer of scientific research on EHF satellite propagation.Since 2014, a large number of satellite communication scientific experiments have been conducted by the University of Rome Tor Vergata, principal investigator for the ASI telecommunication campaign. Due to the excellent scientific results and the high reliability of the system, the experimental campaign is still ongoing. The main objective of the proposed telecommunication experiments is to demonstrate the feasibility of broadband satellite communications in Q/V band, optimizing and assessing, over‐the‐air, the performance of the indispensable adaptive transmission techniques. Moreover, the application of innovative paradigms related to software‐defined networking (SDN) and network functions virtualization (NFV) has been investigated in the framework of satellite systems exploiting beyond Ka‐band frequencies.The goal that drives this experimental activity is to provide to the academic community, manufacturers, and service providers useful tools to cope with Q/V‐band links for future satellite communication systems. The use of EHF links contributes to the reduction of RF front end and thus minimization of orbital junk; moreover, high throughput links in conjunction with software‐driven architectures enable a high level of system reconfigurability that is one of the pillars for a sustainable use of space.The paper presents the main results of the last 10 years of Q/V‐band experiments, as well as the plans and perspectives for future scientific and operational activities in a sustainable space framework.
Exploring the path to achieve sustainable agricultural development: An empirical analysis based on the modernization of agriculture in six central China provinces
Authors: Luo Yuhui , Li Bangwang , Wang Jianan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAgricultural modernization is an important component of sustainable development. This study uses panel data from six central provinces in China to measure the level of agricultural modernization from 2012 to 2021 using the entropy‐weighted TOPSIS method, kernel density estimation method, and Markov chain method. The results show that the level of agricultural modernization in central provinces has generally increased, with a distribution pattern of “low in high latitudes, high in middle dimensions, and low in low latitudes.” The kernel density estimation indicates regional differences in agricultural modernization within the central provinces. Although the absolute differences among central provinces are dynamically changing, the overall trend is decreasing, and the polarization trend is gradually weakening. It is challenging for central provinces to achieve leap‐forward development in agricultural modernization within a short period. The level of agricultural modernization in central provinces has significant spatial dependence characteristics, and neighboring provinces with higher levels can better promote the level of agricultural modernization in the province.
How do US firms grow? New evidence from a growth decomposition
Authors: Sivadasan Jagadeesh , Balasubramanian Natarajan , Dharwadkar Ravi , Ren Charlotte 
Published: July 2024

AbstractResearch SummaryFirm growth and its underlying modes are rarely examined on their own, which impedes our understanding of their relative importance, correlations among them and their associations with competition and future performance. We address these using a comprehensive seven‐mode decomposition of employment growth in all US firms (2004–2013). We find that organic modes such as opening or closing plants contribute more than transactional modes such as acquisitions and selloffs, and that growth modes exhibit age‐size differences and are generally positively correlated within firms. Trade competition in manufacturing increased closures and decreased acquisitions but had no effect on new units. Transactional growth positively correlates with future survival, unlike organic growth. Together, our findings expand our understanding of firm growth as a composite of multiple growth modes.Managerial SummaryManagers have many ways to grow a firm, but studies typically emphasize transactional modes such as acquisitions and selloffs. Using data on all US firms over 2004–2013, we study seven growth modes in an integrated and comprehensive model. We find that organic modes contribute more to growth than transactional modes, that young, large firms grow less relative to old, large firms, that when firms grow (shrink), they tend to grow (shrink) using multiple modes simultaneously and that growth modes vary in their association with competition. Importantly, transactional growth positively correlates with future survival, unlike organic growth. Together, these findings not only suggest that growth modes vary in their contribution to firm growth but also that they may differently influence subsequent performance.
Organic Pea Starches – II. Investigation of Physicochemical and Techno‐Functional Properties
Authors: Terstegen Tim , Flöter Eckhard , Ulbrich Marco 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe physicochemical and technofunctional properties of several pea starches harvested in consecutive years are studied. All samples are cultivated in the same geographical locations. Despite limited variation of amylose content that is found (mean amylose content of 32.1 ± 1.4% and a range from 29.2% to 35.7%), the varieties demonstrate significant differences in their functional properties. During gelatinization, all starches exhibit comparable onset temperatures (To) within the range of 60.8–63.7 °C. However, the conclusion temperature (Tc) displays a considerably broader spectrum, spanning from 73.5 to 80.0 °C. Furthermore, noticeable systematic differences between the samples from 2020 to 2021 are observed. In terms of the hot paste viscosity, two main shear viscosity curves are identified. These are independent of the harvesting period and could be associated with differences in average molar masses examined previously. Pea varieties with comparable low starch molar masses (<25 × 106 g∙mol−1) show a stronger shear thinning behavior. The starches also exhibit substantial variations in mechanical gel strength and gel elasticity. The gel strengths range from 5.5 to 17.0 N. Increasing firmness of gels appears to correspond to reduced elasticities. For comparison, native corn starch, potato starch, and wrinkled pea starch are considered.
Current situation and future issues with Kampo medicine: A survey of Japanese physicians
Authors: Uneda Kazushi , Yoshino Tetsuhiro , Ito Hidenori , Imoto Seiya , Nogami Tatsuya 
Published: July 2024

AbstractAimWe aimed to elucidate the present clinical situation, future challenges, and potential need for diagnostic support software in Kampo medicine.MethodsWe conducted an online survey (comprising 28 questions) of Japanese physicians from the 23 to 24 January 2024 via MedPeer. The participants' responses were stratified according to their age distribution.ResultsWe evaluated data for 652 respondents. The most common respondent age groups were those in their 30s and 40s. The most common specialty of respondents was internal medicine (43.7%). Only 33.7% of respondents had received education on Kampo medicine at university. Most respondents (90.0%) were not licensed as certified physicians or members of the Japan Society for Oriental Medicine. Most respondents (86.7%) currently prescribed Kampo formulas (current users); only 3.8% had no experience in prescribing Kampo formulas. The conditions for which Kampo formulas were frequently prescribed were muscle cramps, constipation, medically unexplained symptoms/menopausal syndrome, appetite loss/malnutrition, and fatigue. However, 48.3% of current users did not use traditional Kampo patterns (sho). The most frequent issues reported by respondents were the lack of scientific evidence and standardization of diagnostic methods in Kampo medicine. Respondents indicated the need for postgraduate education and implementation of diagnostic support software for using Kampo patterns by non‐specialists in Kampo medicine.ConclusionThere was a discrepancy between the high frequency of Kampo formula prescriptions and the low use of traditional Kampo patterns in Japan. Diagnostic support software is likely to become a useful method of improving appropriate Kampo formula prescriptions by non‐specialists.
Beyond Making Stuff: Co‐Designing Literacies and Collaborating for Critical Empathy
Authors: McKinney‐Lepp Melissa , Kaur Simranjeet , Collier Diane R. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractChildren in a grade two/three classroom co‐designed photographs of each other's important family objects to develop critical empathy and better understand their peers’ home cultures. They engaged in visual critical literacy practices. The paper provides a narrative of what happened and a framework for creative collaborative pedagogy.
Fabrication of antibacterial food packaging from polyvinyl alcohol/sodium caseinate composite films cross‐linked with lactic acid
Authors: Dülger Naz Doğa , Samatya Yilmaz Sema , Uzuner Hüseyin , Aytac Ayse 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn this study, Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)/Sodium Caseinate (NaCAS) were cross‐linked by mixing with Lactic acid (LA) in different proportions (0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4%). Composite films were obtained from the prepared solutions using the solution casting method. The obtained composite films were appeared as slightly opaque and lightly yellowish, but mostly transparent. As the amount of LA increased, the polarized microscope surface images of the composite films became rougher. It was explained that cross‐linking occurred with the aldehyde groups (CHO) determined in the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The increasing 5% weight loss temperature of the films because of cross‐linking also increased the thermal strength. In X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), the 2θ peak intensity of the 2% LA‐added film, which had the highest cross‐link density, was indicated to be the lowest. It was reported that 4% and above the LA contribution rate negatively affects the physical and mechanical properties of the PVA/NaCAS matrix. The pure PVA/NaCAS film had 30.08 MPa tensile strength and 1.49% tensile strain. The film with 2% LA added showed the tensile strength value closest to the pure film with 23.89 MPa. With a 6.52% value, the film containing 2% LA showed the lowest moisture retention behavior. Pure PVA/NaCAS film, which has a hydrophilic structure with a contact angle of 57°, gained hydrophobic ability with the addition of LA. The 1% LA‐added film exhibited the highest hydrophobic behavior with a contact angle value of 99°. With the LA additive, an increase in the contact angle values of the composite films was observed between approximately 61% and 74%. In addition, the water vapor permeability (WVTR) with 582.37 g/m2 day value of pure PVA/NaCAS composite film decreased after the addition of LA. It was degraded to 322.72 g/m2 day WVTR value in the 1% LA‐added film. 100% antibacterial activity against both E. coli and S. aureus was observed in composite films containing 1% or more LA additive. The resulting films were suggested to be used as active food packaging with antibacterial effects.Highlights
LA can be used as a crosslinking agent for PVA/NaCAS blends.
2% LA contribution has shown the highest cross‐linking density.
4% LA and higher LA contribution would negatively affect the mechanical properties of the matrix.
High antibacterial activity was obtained against both E. coli and S. aureus in films containing 1% or more LA.
Narrative Semiotics and the Study of Scientific Practices
Authors: Peverini Paolo 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe initial stages of the fruitful encounter between structuralist semiotics and Bruno Latour are reconstructed, culminating in the innovative project of analysing the rhetoric inherent in a scientific text. The starting point of what will evolve over time into a full-fledged anthropological approach to scientific discourse is a text published by Latour and Paolo Fabbri in 1977 titled La rhétorique de la science: Pouvoir et devoir dans un article de science exacte. The goal of this seminal essay is to demonstrate that the textual forms of the exact sciences are not reduced, as commonly believed, to the cold and impersonal description of an experimental practice. On the contrary, they manifest the presence of a complex rhetoric at the service of a pragmatic intent: to induce the recipients of the scientific community to recognize as true only the utterances expressed by the authors, while discrediting the adversaries active in the same disciplinary field. The chapter also highlights Françoise Bastide’s decisive role in the pioneering analysis of the semiotics of the scientific text with particular reference to the role assumed by materiality and the practices of use of non-human agents (laboratory instruments) involved in the construction of scientific facts and their narration.
Enunciation
Authors: Peverini Paolo 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe chapter is entirely dedicated to enunciation, a central notion in semiotic theory that has been the subject of constant reasoning and theoretical investigation by Bruno Latour with a series of repercussions that are also significant for contemporary semiotic research. From the initial recourse to Greimasian notions of débrayage and embrayage employed to account for the ways in which in a text authenticity manifests itself as a meaning effect, to the increasing attention paid to objects, to the material manifestation that the construction of scientific facts takes on, enunciation proves to be an essential concept for deepening the complex relationship between semiotics and Latour’s work. The paragraphs thus reconstruct Latour’s effort to extend the scope of enunciation outside the sphere of textuality, openly criticizing semiotics, considered too anchored to the study of language. A criticism that nevertheless fails to recognize a significant turning point in contemporary semiotic research that has long since broadened the perimeter of the phenomena of signification analyzed, with the progressive development of the sociosemiotic perspective. Particular attention is paid to an essay often overlooked in the literature on Latourian work, namely Petite philosophie de l’énonciation and to the semiotics implicit in some of the French intellectual’s most famous works seemingly distant from semiotic theory, including An Inquiry into Modes of Existence. An Anthropology of the Moderns.
CaDiCaL 2.0
Authors: Biere Armin , Faller Tobias , Fazekas Katalin , Fleury Mathias , Froleyks Nils , Pollitt Florian 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe SAT solver CaDiCaL provides a rich feature set with a clean library interface. It has been adopted by many users, is well documented and easy to extend due to its effective testing and debugging infrastructure. In this tool paper we give a high-level introduction into the solver architecture and then go briefly over implemented techniques. We describe basic features and novel advanced usage scenarios. Experiments confirm that CaDiCaL despite this flexibility has state-of-the-art performance both in a stand-alone as well as incremental setting.
Playing Games with Your PET: Extending the Partial Exploration Tool to Stochastic Games
Authors: Meggendorfer Tobias , Weininger Maximilian 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe present version 2.0 of thePartial Exploration Tool(Pet), a tool for verification of probabilistic systems. We extend the previous version by adding support forstochastic games, based on a recent unified framework for sound value iteration algorithms. Thereby,Pet2is the first tool implementing a sound and efficient approach for solving stochastic games with objectives of the type reachability/safety and mean payoff. We complement this approach by developing and implementing a partial-exploration based variant for all three objectives. Our experimental evaluation shows thatPet2offers the most efficient partial-exploration based algorithm and is the most viable tool on SGs, even outperforming unsound tools.
Stochastic Omega-Regular Verification and Control with Supermartingales
Authors: Abate Alessandro , Giacobbe Mirco , Roy Diptarko 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe present for the first time a supermartingale certificate for $$\omega $$
ω
-regular specifications. We leverage the Robbins & Siegmund convergence theorem to characterize supermartingale certificates for the almost-sure acceptance of Streett conditions on general stochastic processes, which we call Streett supermartingales. This enables effective verification and control of discrete-time stochastic dynamical models with infinite state space under $$\omega $$
ω
-regular and linear temporal logic specifications. Our result generalises reachability, safety, reach-avoid, persistence and recurrence specifications; our contribution applies to discrete-time stochastic dynamical models and probabilistic programs with discrete and continuous state spaces and distributions, and carries over to deterministic models and programs. We provide a synthesis algorithm for control policies and Streett supermartingales as proof certificates for $$\omega $$
ω
-regular objectives, which is sound and complete for supermartingales and control policies with polynomial templates and any stochastic dynamical model whose post-expectation is expressible as a polynomial. We additionally provide an optimisation of our algorithm that reduces the problem to satisfiability modulo theories, under the assumption that templates and post-expectation are in piecewise linear form. We have built a prototype and have demonstrated the efficacy of our approach on several exemplar $$\omega $$
ω
-regular verification and control synthesis problems.
Synthesis of Temporal Causality
Authors: Finkbeiner Bernd , Frenkel Hadar , Metzger Niklas , Siber Julian 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe present an automata-based algorithm to synthesize $$\omega $$
ω
-regular causes for $$\omega $$
ω
-regular effects on executions of a reactive system, such as counterexamples uncovered by a model checker. Our theory is a generalization of temporal causality, which has recently been proposed as a framework for drawing causal relationships between trace properties on a given trace. So far, algorithms exist only for verifying a single causal relationship and, as an extension, cause synthesis through enumeration, which is complete only for a small fragment of effect properties. This work presents the first complete cause-synthesis algorithm for the class of $$\omega $$
ω
-regular effects. We show that in this case, causes are guaranteed to be $$\omega $$
ω
-regular themselves and can be computed as, e.g., nondeterministic Büchi automata. We demonstrate the practical feasibility of this algorithm with a prototype tool and evaluate its performance for cause synthesis and cause checking.