bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Game‐theoretic approaches to product introduction strategies for durable products
Authors: Pirayesh Neghab Davood , Restrepo Diaz Jorge , Cevik Mucahit , Wahab M. I. M. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractNew product demand continuously fluctuates throughout the life of the product. As a result, markets typically experience high volatility. Most companies operate in highly competitive industries where the product volume supplied by the competitors significantly affects production plans. These conditions necessitate companies to be flexible and rapidly adapt to such volatility. In this study, we investigate the product introduction strategies under two microeconomic theories: real‐option valuation and game theory. Specifically, we develop a real‐option valuation framework with a flexible capacity based on two game‐theoretic models, namely, Stackelberg and Cournot, in a duopoly market where competitors have either perfect or imperfect information. Furthermore, we construct a lattice to discretize the demand evolution and adopt a regime‐switching approach to characterize the stochastic product lifetime. We conduct an extensive numerical study and compare net present values (NPVs) and optimal capacities obtained from the game‐theoretic models. Our results show that under perfect information, the Stackelberg competition generates more supply with lower prices and less total
than the Cournot competition. Moreover, we find that, compared to the fixed‐capacity system, the flexible capacity system increases the
in the Stackelberg game (by 5.5%) more than in the Cournot game (by 3.3%). We provide further results on the performance of the companies based on detailed sensitivity analysis for various model parameters. In particular, we observe that fixed and variable production and installation costs majorly impact capacity allocation decisions and profits.
A comparative study of machine learning in predicting the mechanical properties of the deposited AA6061 alloys via additive friction stir deposition
Authors: Qiao Qian , Liu Quan , Pu Jiong , Shi Haixia , Li Wenxiao , Zhu Zhixiong , Guo Dawei , Qian Hongchang , Zhang Dawei , Li Xiaogang , Kwok C. T. , Tam L. M. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAdditive friction stir deposition (AFSD) provides strong flexibility and better performance in component design, which is controlled by the process parameters. It is an essential and difficult task to tune those parameters. The recent exploration of machine learning (ML) exhibits great potential to obtain a suitable balance between productivity and set parameters. In this study, ML techniques, including support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF) and artificial neural network (ANN), are applied to predict the mechanical properties of the AFSD‐based AA6061 deposition. Expect for the stable parameters (temperature, force and torque) in situ monitored by the self‐developed process‐aware kit during the AFSD process and the other factors (rotation speed, traverse speed, feed rate and layer thickness) are also set as input variables. The output variables are microhardness and ultimate tensile strength (UTS). Prediction results show that the ANN model performs the best prediction accuracy with the highest R2 (0.9998) and the lowest mean absolute error (MAE, 0.0050) and root mean square error (RMSE, 0.0063). Furthermore, analysis suggests that the feed rate (24.8%/24.1%) and layer thickness (25.6%/26.6%) indicate a higher contribution that affects the mechanical properties.
A semi‐analytical procedure to determine the ion recombination correction factor in high dose‐per‐pulse beams
Authors: Bancheri Julien , Seuntjens Jan 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe conventional theories and methods of determining the ion recombination correction factor, such as Boag theory and the related two voltage method and Jaffé plot extrapolation, do not seem to yield accurate results in FLASH /high dose per pulse (DPP) beams (10 mGy DPP). This is due to the presence of a large free electron fraction that distorts the electric field inside the chamber sensitive volume. To understand the influence of these effects on the ion recombination correction factor and to develop new expressions for it, it is necessary to re‐visit the underlying physics.PurposeTo present a mathematical procedure to develop an analytical expression for the ion recombination correction factor. The expression is the basis for an extrapolation method so the correction factor can be determined in a clinical setting.MethodsA semi‐analytical solution method, the homotopy perturbation method (HPM), is used to solve the partial differential equations (PDEs) describing the charge carrier physics, including space charge and free electrons. The electron velocity and attachment rate are modeled as functions of the electric field strength. An expression for the charge collection efficiency and ion recombination correction factor are developed. A fit procedure based on this expression is used to compare it to measured data from previously published articles. Another fit procedure using a general equation is also proposed and compared to the data.ResultsThe series obtained for the charge collection efficiency and the ion recombination correction factor are determined to be asymptotic series and the optimal truncation established. The ion recombination correction factor exhibits a dependency due to the free electron presence. The fit using this expression agrees well with measured data as long as (1) the DPP is below 1 Gy for chambers with a 1 mm plate separation and (2) when the DPP is below 3 Gy for chambers with a 0.5 mm plate separation. In these DPP ranges, the deviation between measured and fit value did not exceed 6%. In both chamber cases the voltage range where the fit applies decreases as DPP increases. The general equation yielded comparable results.ConclusionsThe HPM was shown to be applicable to a complex system of PDEs and generate meaningful and novel solutions, as they include both space charge and free electrons. The HPM also lends itself to other chamber geometries. The fit procedure was also shown to yield accurate results for the ion recombination correction up to the 1 Gy DPP level.
SimpleNMR: An interactive graph network approach to aid constitutional isomer verification using standard 1D and 2D NMR experiments
Authors: Hughes Eric , Kenwright Alan M. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractDespite progress in computer automated solutions, constitutional isomer verification by NMR using one‐ and two‐dimensional data sets is still, in the main, a manual, user‐intensive activity that is challenging for a number of reasons. These include the problem of simultaneously keeping track of the information from a number of separate NMR experiments and the difficulty of another researcher subsequently verifying the assignments made without having to independently repeat the whole analysis. This paper describes a graphical interactive approach that overcomes some of these problems. By using concepts used to visualise graph networks, we have been able to represent the NMR data in a manner that highlights directly the link between the different NMR experiments and the molecule of interest. Furthermore, by making the graph networks interactive, a user can easily validate and correct the assignment and understand the decisions made in arriving at the solution. We have developed a usable proof‐of‐concept computer program, ‘simpleNMR’, written in Python to illustrate the ideas and approach.
Dependence of critical temperature on doping and oxygen reduction in Nd2-xCexCuO4-δ${\rm Nd}_{2{\hbox{-}}x}{\rm Ce}_x{\rm CuO}_{4{\hbox{-}}\delta}$ superconductor
Authors: Yayeh Zewdie , Kahsay Gebregziabher , Negussie Tamiru , Ketema Ababay 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn this work, we have investigated the possible dependence of critical temperature (Tc) on cerium doping and oxygen reduction in oxide superconductor 2‐xCexCu (LCCO, L = Nd, Eu Pr) by employing the Green's function (GF) technique. Besides, we have shown the interconnection between electron doping and subtle oxygen reduction variability in the system by using Tikhonov regularization method (TRM). Within the above methods, both parameters of superconducting critical temperature (Tc) and antiferromagnetic transition temperature (TN) are calculated quantitatively by considering the electron doping followed by annealing and magnetic ordering for NCCO system. It is demonstrated that when the magnetic ordering is applied, Tc is suppressed whereas TN is enhanced. On the other hand, for electron doping, the values of these parameters become vice‐versa. It is shown that, with further electron doping, the antiferromagnetic state leads to higher frustration. However, it subtly persists up to about, . The critical temperature of NCCO occurs in the range of between 0.05 and 0.27 with at The antiferromagnetic (AFM) phase and superconducting (SC) phase diagrams are established in compact form and the coexistence between the two states is demonstrated. The current finding is compatible with previous results.
Changes in suicidal ideation during treatment among patients with major depressive disorder: A 6‐month naturalistic follow‐up study
Authors: Sato Aoi , Sugawara Norio , Kawamata Yasushi , Yasui‐Furukori Norio 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAimThere is limited evidence regarding predictors of changes in suicidal ideation (SI) in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). The objective of this study was to describe changes in SI over a 6‐month period and identify their predictors from naturalistic observations of MDD patients.MethodsIn the cross‐sectional analysis, we examined 257 patients with MDD at the first‐visit assessment. Among the patients, 119 who completed the 6‐month assessment (completers) were included in the longitudinal analysis. For the evaluation of depressive symptoms, including SI, the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology‐Japanese version was administered at both the first‐visit and follow‐up assessments. At baseline, we also administered the Japanese version of the Ten Item Personality Inventory to assess personality traits and the PRIME Screen‐Revised to assess psychotic symptoms.ResultsIn the cross‐sectional analysis of first‐visit patients, 36.2% (93/257) exhibited SI. Among completers, 14.3% (17/119) had prolonged SI. Among the completers with SI at the first‐visit assessment, 38.6% (17/44) had SI at the follow‐up assessment (prolonged SI). In linear regression models including all completers, prolonged SI was positively associated with endorsement of suspiciousness/persecutory ideas and negatively associated with higher age.ConclusionMore than one‐third of completers who had SI at the first‐visit assessment experienced prolonged SI (SI at follow‐up). Our findings can help clinicians predict the course of MDD by identifying associated demographic and clinical characteristics.
Acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐lignin thermoplastic rubber adhesive for enhanced metal‐to‐metal joining
Authors: Yu Zeyang , Kanbargi Nihal , Gupta Sumit , Shin Yongsoon , Qiao Yao , Bowland Christopher C. , Merkel Daniel R. , Simmons Kevin L. , Naskar Amit K. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWith the growing requirement for lightweight structural materials in automotive, aerospace, and infrastructure applications, multi‐material joints made with adhesive have attracted intense research interest. Commercial thermoset adhesives are one‐time cures, and difficult to disassemble the bonded components for repair and recycling. Our prior work with a thermoplastic acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐lignin rubber (ABL) addresses this sustainability/recycling challenge, but the adhesive exhibits deficient joining strength compared to standard thermosets. Here, we modify the ABL matrix by loading particulate fillers to enhance its modulus and toughness. The goal is to manufacture a cure‐free thermoplastic adhesive system with a simple dispensing protocol and characteristic ductility combined with a high yield stress for improved shear strength of a bonded joint. Fumed silica (FS) and epoxidized glass spheres (EGS) were used as fillers in the ABL to promote the dispersion of lignin particles that tailored the functionalities and free energy components of the adhesive surface. With optimal loading of FS (5 wt%) and EGS (30 wt%) in the ABL adhesive matrix, the lap‐shear strength of the bonded aluminum joint was elevated by 128%, compared to the neat ABL, reaching 21 MPa, which is 90% of the performance of a commercial epoxy‐based adhesive.Highlights
A partly renewable filler‐toughened thermoplastic adhesive has been developed.
This thermoplastic gives nearly equivalent performance of adhesively bonded aluminum joint compared to standard thermosets.
Experimental and simulation data help understand the adhesive reinforcing mechanism by the fillers.
Biocompatible colloidal feedstock for material extrusion processing of bioceramic‐based scaffolds
Authors: Ferrández‐Montero A. , Ortega‐Columbrans P. , Eguiluz A. , Sanchez‐Herencia A. J. , Detsch R. , Boccaccini A. R. , Ferrari B. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractNowadays an enormous effort has been made to impulse the incorporation of additive manufacturing (AM) approaches in the biomedical sector. One of the most recognized biomaterials for this end is bioceramics such as hydroxyapatite (HA), but unfortunately, ceramics present a lack of accessible technologies based on AM. Consequently, the development of new methodologies which enable the manufacture of bioceramic‐based scaffolds is imperative. A large number of publications on polymer–ceramic composite processed by Material Extrusion are available, so far, the maximum ceramic loading reached is still a parameter to improve. Recently an alternative colloidal processing technique to prepare ceramic‐based composite feedstock for material extrusion has been proposed. It has been demonstrated that tailoring the surface of the ceramic particles enables the processing of high ceramic loading composites by AM. This article shows the potential of the colloidal approach to process biocompatible PLA/HA feedstock increasing the homogeneity of the bioceramic phase into the composite. The feedstock characterization shows that HA surface modification makes possible the successful dispersion and the ceramic load increase without modifying the biocompatibility. The ceramic load increase does not modify the melting properties of the polymeric matrix required for the 3D printing process. This methodology allows for the first time the development of a final 3D printed composite structure with contents up to 72 wt% of HA by Material Extrusion. This colloidal approach paves the way to transfer the use of additive manufacturing techniques mainly devoted to polymeric biomaterials to other types of biomaterials such as bioceramics.Highlights
A colloidal approach for 3D printing of PLA/HA composites is proposed.
HA surface modification made possible a load increase with high dispersion.
The characterization of a PLA/HA feedstock for 3D printing is established.
Biocompatible PLA/HA feedstock is processed by AM in customized structures.
Colloidal approach allows the processing of 3D structures with 72 wt% of HA.
Facile synthesis of rapamycin‐loaded PEG‐b‐PLA nanoparticles and their application in immunotherapy
Authors: Li Yudong , Scheerstra Jari F. , Liu Yuechi , Wauters Annelies C. , Wang Jianhong , Wu Hanglong , Patiño Tania , Llopis‐Lorente Antoni , van Hest Jan C. M. , Abdelmohsen Loai K. E. A. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPoly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(lactide) (PEG‐b‐PLA) micro‐ and nanoparticles (NPs) have been intensively investigated for applications in biomedicine, due to their inherent biocompatibility and biodegradability, which allows them to be used as sustained release systems. Current methods for preparing PEG‐b‐PLA NPs typically require two different steps that include polymer synthesis and NP assembly, with the necessary intermediate polymer purification and the use of a variety of organic solvents in the process. In order to facilitate the biomedical application of PEG‐b‐PLA NPs, it is of great interest to develop a strategy to formulate the NPs in a simplified manner. Here, we report a straightforward method to construct PEG‐b‐PLA NPs through a sequential two‐step process without intermediate work‐up, which involves synthesizing the polymer in a water‐miscible organic solvent that is, N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF), followed by addition of water to the polymer solution. In this way, large NPs (~600 nm) were prepared. We comprehensively characterized the NPs using turbidity studies, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. We further demonstrated the ability of the NPs to encapsulate drugs, exemplified in the immunotherapeutic agent rapamycin, with relatively high encapsulation efficiency. In vitro drug release tests showed that rapamycin‐encapsulating NPs had comparable sustained‐release profiles at different pH conditions, highlighting the broad application window of our NP platform. Moreover, in vitro T cell suppression assays revealed that rapamycin‐loaded NPs exhibited similar inhibitory performance to free rapamycin on CD8+ cells at all rapamycin concentrations and on CD4+ cells at high and intermediate rapamycin concentrations, while the performance of the NPs was superior on CD4+ at low rapamycin concentration. Overall, this work provides a route for the scalable synthesis of biocompatible PEG‐b‐PLA NPs, which can be extended to other polymeric NPs, with potential in biomedical applications such as immunotherapy.
“Pathways”: A hope‐enhancing intervention for patients undergoing treatment for advanced lung cancer
Authors: McLouth Laurie E. , Shelton Brent J. , Bursac Vilma , Burris Jessica L. , Cheavens Jennifer S. , Weyman Kaitlyn , Peterman Amy H. , Corum Lauren , Studts Jamie L. , Arnold Susanne M. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract (249/250)ObjectiveObservational data suggest hope is associated with the quality of life and survival of people with cancer. This trial examined the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of “Pathways,” a hope intervention for people in treatment for advanced lung cancer.MethodsBetween 2020 and 2022, we conducted a single‐arm trial of Pathways among participants who were 3–12 weeks into systemic treatment. Pathways consisted of two individual sessions delivered during infusions and three phone calls in which participants discussed their values, goals, and goal strategies with a nurse or occupational therapist. Participants completed standardized measures of hope and goal interference pre‐ and post‐intervention. Feasibility was defined as ≥60% of eligible patients enrolling, ≥70% of participants completing three or more sessions, ≥70% of participants completing post‐assessments, and mean acceptability ratings ≥7 out of 10 on intervention relevance, helpfulness, and convenience. Linear regression fixed effects models with covariates modeled pre–post changes in complete case analysis and multiple imputation models.ResultsFifty two participants enrolled: female (59.6%), non‐Hispanic White (84.6%), rural (75.0%), and with low educational attainment (51.9% high school degree or less). Except for enrollment (54%), feasibility and acceptability markers were surpassed (77% adherence, 77% retention, acceptability ratings ≥8/10). There was moderate improvement in hope and goal interference from pre‐to post‐intervention (d = 0.51, p < 0.05 for hope; d = −0.70, p < 0.005 for goal interference).ConclusionsStrong feasibility, acceptability, and patient‐reported outcome data suggest Pathways is a promising intervention to increase hope and reduce cancer‐related goal interference during advanced lung cancer treatment.
Migratory birds: Dehumanization of migrant workers in West Hungary
Authors: Jankó Ferenc , Czirfusz Márton , Berki Márton 
Published: March 2024

AbstractThe region of West Hungary surrounding Sopron has experienced large migrant worker inflows from rural Hungary and neighbouring countries into low‐skilled jobs in pre‐COVID‐19 years. This research interviewed workers, labour market intermediaries, employers, and hosts to explore how the fundamental humanity of migrant workers is denied in the labour process. The paper draws on geographical research examining the embodied agency of workers and analyses the literature on dehumanization to highlight the construction of dehumanization narratives in the social relations of migrant recruitment, training, employment, and accommodation. Theoretically, the paper argues that production and reproduction sites require consideration when examining the dehumanization of migrant labour. The empirical part of the paper contributes to the literature by unpacking various dehumanization strategies involving social boundary‐making based on nationality, ethnicity, and gender.
Curculigoside, a traditional Chinese medicine monomer, ameliorates oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease mouse model via suppressing ferroptosis
Authors: Gong Yuhang , Wang Yanan , Li Yanfeng , Weng Fanglin , Chen Tong , He Ling 
Published: March 2024

AbstractAlzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder where oxidative stress, induced by ferroptosis, has been linked to neuronal damage and cognitive deficits. The objective of this study is to investigate if the potential therapeutic agent, Curculigoside (CUR), could ameliorate AD by inhibiting ferroptosis. The potential therapeutic targets, such as GPX4 and SLC7A11, were identified using weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA). Concurrently, CUR was also screened against these potential targets using various analytical methods. For the in vivo studies, intragastric administration of CUR significantly ameliorated cognitive impairment in AD model mice induced by scopolamine and okadaic acid (OA). In vitro, CUR protected neuronal cells by altering the levels of ferroptosis‐related specific markers in OA and scopolamine‐induced neurotoxicity. The administration of CUR through intragastric route significantly reduced the levels of AD‐promoting factors (such as Aβ1–42, p‐tau) and ferroptosis‐promoting factors in the hippocampus and cortex of AD mice. Furthermore, CUR up‐regulated the expression of GPX4 and decreased the expression of SLC7A11 in the ferroptosis signaling pathway, thereby increasing the ratio of glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in vivo and vitro. In conclusion, the cumulative results suggest that the natural compound CUR may serve as a promising therapeutic agent to ameliorate AD by inhibiting ferroptosis.