bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Law and economics of minority-language policy.
Authors: Wickström Bengt-Arne 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Formal language rights, such as the status as an oﬀicial, working, national, or regional language, are normally conferred on a language in a well- defined territory, be it a county, a province or an entire country. For a minority language in a federal state, the status as a rule varies from one jurisdiction to another, depending on the number of speakers in the various federal parts of the state. We provide a framework for a normative analysis of this type of language policy. The analysis is based on cost-benefit analysis. We first define and dis- cuss the benefit side assuming benefits to be proportional to the number of beneficiaries of a given planning measure. We then argue that the costs of a planning measure can be adequately described as a function of two variables “number of beneficiaries” and “size of area of application”. The form of this function characterizes different types of planning measures and lets us analyze different planning measures in a two-dimensional model characterized by the number of beneficiaries and their geographical concentration in the jurisdiction under consideration. In praxi simple planning rules have to be used in deciding on the imple- mentation of planning measures. The cost structure – as well as the size of the costs of given planning measures – determines how different planning rules function. In addition, also for practical purposes, only a small set of policy cat- egories is tractable. This leads to a multi-stage optimization problem. For any possible category – collection of planning measures – the results of an optimal planning rule have to be found. Based thereof, the selection of categories can be made, also considering administrative costs.
JEL classification: K19, K39, Z13, Z18, J15, J18
Experimental and Mathematical Optimization of Recycled Poylacticacid Composite Printed Structures Using Fdm Technology
Authors: Kumar PVR Girish , Devi K. Devaki 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This study compares virgin structures with recycled structures with two main goals. First, it explores the experimental data pertaining to these structures' behavior under loads. Later, it was mathematically compared to multiple optimization method. Thus, layer thickness, infill percentage, and shell thickness—three crucial geometric parameters of the repetitive structures—are regarded as highly significant design parameters. As a result, a unique approach to experiment design was used, yielding nine completely distinct components. These structures were printed using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology and composed of recycled PLA + CF and Poly Lactic Acid Carbon Fiber (PLACF). They were then loaded, and the resulting mechanical responses served as the basis for the normalizing matrix's foundational dataset. Amazingly, the TOPSIS method found both positive and negative solutions after the weight was normalized. The results clearly showed how performance is measured using performance rank, ranging from the best to the worst solution. The ANNOVA application demonstrated its ability to achieve optimal design values for mechanical properties across specific parameters, revealing the potential of optimization techniques in understanding intricate mechanical behaviours of structures with innovative parts.
Hyperthermic Extracorporeal Applied Tumor Therapy (HEATT®) in Hospice Eligible Cancer Patients
Authors: Zwischenberger Joseph B. , Skaggs Peyton , Fischer Robert , Essa Joanne , Butler Gordon , Winetz Jan , Vertrees Roger 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Previous research has indicated elevated temperatures of 42°C induce cell death, apoptosis, or senescence of responsive cancers, providing a mechanism for tumor destruction and management. Veno-venous perfusion-induced systemic hyperthermia (VV-PISH) may be the key to improving advanced tumor responsiveness as solo therapy or as an adjunct to previously failed chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy alone, or in combination. The most recent iteration of VV-PISH, Hyperthermic Extracorporeal Applied Tumor Therapy (HEATT®), provides homogeneous heating of all tissues with electrolyte and pH control, and continues to prove safe and effective. This consecutive series of 13 hospice-eligible patients confirms that HEATT® is safe and efficacious in a near end-of-life diverse population; 8/13 exceeded expected median survival, 6/13 exceeded the 6-month predicted end-of-life, and 5/13 exceeded 12 months. Several lessons learned allowed inclusion and exclusion criteria refinement. Utilization of HEATT® in all eligible patients should be considered as a part of integrative oncology care.
Investigating the potential of Germanene in solar cells: A simulation study on a-SiGe/c-Si structure
Authors: Madmeli Arash , Madmeli Kiarash , Ganji Jabbar 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Utilizing the two-dimensional (2D) nano-bands with graphene-like atom arrangement in the structure of the solar cells is of significant importance to present the next generation of solar cells. The present study used germanene (a 2D structure made of germanium atoms) as p-type and n-type semiconductor layers in structure ITO/germanene (1, 2, 3)/MoS2 (n)/a-SiGe: H (i)/c-Si (P)/Au of the heterojunction cell. In this structure, germanene (1, 2, 3) is the p-type germanene semiconductor layer doped with AL, the n-type germanene semiconductor layer doped with P, and the p-type germanene semiconductor layer doped with In, represented by germanene1, germanene2, and germanene3 respectively, and were used separately in the solar cell structure. Also, the free-standing germanene was used as front contact in structure germanene/MoS2 (n)/a-SiGe: H (i)/c-Si (P)/Au of the heterojunction cell. The impacts of different radiant intensities at 300 K temperature by the Am1.5 spectrum radiation were investigated using AFORS-HET simulation tool. According to the results, in 1 Sun radiant intensity, by employing germanene1, germanene2, and germanene3 layers separately in the cell structure, the highest efficiency was achieved in the presence of the germanene2, which was 18.64. The highest efficiency in 0.1 Sun and 100 Sun radiant intensities was 17.78 and 19.56, respectively, both obtained in the presence of the germanene2 layer. By applying the free-standing germanene in the structure of the proposed cell, the efficiency in radiant intensities of 1 Sun, 0.1 Sun, and 50 Sun were 26.98, 25.87, and 27.99, respectively. The positive effects of the germanene layer, both as semiconductor layers and free-standing germanene (front contact), were observable in all investigated radiant intensities.
Baseline determinants of adherence for drug-sensitive TB treatment in a South African prospective cohort: a focus on HIV infection and anti-retroviral therapy, clinical care access, and TB stigma
Authors: Steulet Adrian , Hippner Piotr , Maraba Noriah , Jennings Lauren , Rabothata Israel , Mukora Rachel , Xaba Nokhanyo , Mchunu Lihle , Velen Kavindhran , Orrell Catherine , Charalambous Salome , Fielding Katherine 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Suboptimal adherence to tuberculosis (TB) treatment is common and puts individuals at increased risk of treatment failure. Identifying risk factors for poor adherence may help better target individuals and improve resource allocations. We assessed specific determinants of treatment adherence: HIV status; antiretroviral therapy; time to clinical care access; and perceived stigma, among adults with drug-sensitive TB.
Methods
This is a secondary analysis of the “TB Mate'' cluster-randomised trial, which implemented a TB treatment adherence intervention in 18 health clinics in South Africa (PACTR201902681157721). Smart pillboxes were used to measure treatment adherence; the recording of the pillbox opening was considered a proxy for dose taken. Adults enrolled in the control arm, using the pillbox in silent mode, were eligible for this analysis. Logistic regression was used to model poor adherence (< 80% doses taken) and negative binomial regression was used to study adherence as a count of doses taken. Directed acyclic graphs guided the selection of confounders in the models.
Results
Out of 1,213 participants from nine clinics, 51% (614) had adherence of < 80% and the geometric mean of the percentage of doses taken was 59.6%. 63% (769) of participants were living with HIV, of whom 66% (507/769) were taking antiretroviral therapy. The median time to access clinical care was 127 minutes. Ninety-five percent (1151/1213) reported no perceived stigmatisation at the time of starting TB treatment. Living with HIV was identified as a strong determinant of adherence to TB treatment: adjusted odds ratio 1.68 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27–2.22) for < 80% adherence and adjusted rate ratio 0.9 (0.83–0.97) for doses taken, compared with being HIV-negative. Being on antiretroviral therapy, time to clinical care access, and perceived stigma were not associated with either adherence measure.
Conclusions
Very low adherence reported highlights the need for TB treatment support interventions, especially among those living with HIV.
An investigation for phylogenetic characterization of human Pancreatic cancer microbiome by 16SrDNA Sequencing and Bioinformatics techniques
Authors: Hunter Colby , Dia Khadimou , Boykins Julia , Perry Karrington , Banerjee Narendra , Cuffee Jazmine , Armstrong Erik , Morgan Gabrielle , Banerjee Hirendra Nath , Banerjee Anasua , Bhattacharya Santanu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a significant public health concern, with increasing incidence rates and limited treatment options. Recent studies have highlighted the role of the human microbiome, particularly the gut microbiota, in the development and progression of this disease. Microbial dysbiosis, characterized by alterations in the composition and function of the gut microbiota, has been implicated in pancreatic carcinogenesis through mechanisms involving chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, and metabolic disturbances. Researchers have identified specific microbial signatures associated with pancreatic cancer, offering potential biomarkers for early detection and prognostication. By leveraging advanced sequencing and bioinformatics tools, scientists have delineated differences in the gut microbiota between pancreatic cancer patients and healthy individuals, providing insights into disease pathogenesis and potential diagnostic strategies. Moreover, the microbiome holds promise as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer treatment. Interventions aimed at modulating the microbiome, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, have demonstrated potential in enhancing the efficacy of existing cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. These approaches can influence immune responses, alter tumor microenvironments, and sensitize tumors to treatment, offering new avenues for improving patient outcomes and overcoming therapeutic resistance. Overall, understanding the complex interplay between the microbiome and pancreatic cancer is crucial for advancing our knowledge of disease mechanisms and identifying innovative therapeutic strategies. Here we report phylogenetic analysis of the 16S microbial sequences of the pancreatic cancer mice microbiome and corresponding age matched healthy mice microbiome. We successfully identified differentially abundance of microbiota in the pancreatic cancer.
Analyzing Optical Properties of Natural Fluorite Crystals: A Comprehensive Investigation
Authors: Shakooei Maryam , Shahidi Mohammad Mahdi , Abedi Arezoo , Mehrabani Mona 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Fluorite, a primary fluorine mineral, plays a crucial role in various chemical and manufacturing processes. In this study focuses on the structural and optical characteristics of four natural fluorite crystals from the Era mine and Komsheche deposit in Iran. Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy were used to investigate the samples. The Raman spectra exhibited a distinctive peak at approximately 322 cm⁻¹, corresponding to the CaF₂ lattice vibration. XRD patterns confirmed the cubic phase of CaF₂, and the preferred orientation of the (111) crystallographic plane was observed. The study revealed variations in full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) values among the samples, potentially indicating the presence of yttrium and enabling differentiation of Various fluorites from different regions. The results provide valuable insights into the structural and optical properties of fluorite crystals and contribute to the understanding of their formation and potential applications in various fields.
Assessing groundwater quality in Nand Samand catchment, Rajasthan, India: a GIS-based multi indices approach for drinking and irrigation water suitability
Authors: Dimple  , Singh Pradeep Kumar , Kothari Mahesh , Yadav Kamal Kishore , Bhakar Sita Ram , Rajput Jitendra , Anvesha  
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Consistently monitoring groundwater quality (GWQ) is essential to reduce the risk of geochemical contaminants and ensure its suitability for agriculture and human consumption. The current investigation aims to assess groundwater (GW) acceptability in the Nand Samand catchment (NSC), utilizing the water quality index (WQI) and irrigation water quality indices (IWQIs) for domestic and irrigation purposes. To achieve this, GW samples were collected from 95 open wells which were located spatially in the catchment, during the pre-monsoon (PRM) and post-monsoon (POM) seasons of 2019 and 2020, and subsequently analysed for 11 physico-chemical parameters. Electrical conductivity (EC) varied from 1.25 to 6.61 dS/m and 0.58 to 7.42 dS/m during the PRM and POM seasons, respectively. Total dissolved solids of the study area ranged between 180 and 1,180 (27%) to 1,180 and 2,180 (62%) during PRM 1,180 (63%) to 1,180–2,180 (31%) during POM, respectively. The study also computed the ‘sodium adsorption ratio’ (SAR) and ‘residual sodium carbonate’ (RSC) to estimate GW's appropriateness for agriculture, finding it suitable in most locations due to its balanced composition. Based on WQI, varying percentages of samples were classified as ‘good’ and ‘poor’ for potable water quality in both seasons.
Demonstration and performance analysis of on-beach public toilet with a decentralised modified French vertical flow constructed wetland and ex situ electrochlorination integrated treatment system
Authors: Gogoi Jayanta Kumar , Sharma Priya , Talekar Guruprasad , Punyapwar Swapnil , Namdev Keyur , Mutnuri Srikanth 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

This study demonstrated an on-beach public toilet equipped with a sustainable decentralised treatment system in Goa, India. The number of toilet users, freshwater demand, and wastewater (WW) generated per day were documented. The treatment system consisted of a modified French-type vertical flow constructed wetland (MVFCW) and electrochlorinator. The first and second stage MVFCW were an unsaturated and saturated type, respectively. The onsite beach bore well water with a chloride concentration of 8464 ± 415.18 mg/L was electrolysed for 1 h at 40.49 Am−2. Then MVFCW effluent was disinfected by dosing 2412.50 + 278.61 mg/L of chlorine (Cl2) generated at a disinfectant dilution ratio of 1:300 (Cl2:WW). The average daily toilet users, freshwater usage, and WW generated were 96 ± 17.02, 1381.38 ± 380.35 L, and 1407.98 ± 611.8 L, respectively. The integrated treatment system treated 1,400 L/day. The integrated treatment system achieved an average percentage removal of 93.38 ± 0.38% chemical oxygen demand, 79.18 ± 1.55% NO3−, 98.45 ± 0.22% total ammoniacal nitrogen, 93.13 ± 1.19% PO4−3, 87.28 ± 0.2% total suspended solids, 83.09 ± 1.16% total organic carbon, 80.22 ± 0.87% total carbon, 80.05 ± 0.12% inorganic carbon, and 100% coliform. The power consumption cost was 0.17 INR m−3.
Modification of bentonite with black cotton soil and carboxyl methyl cellulose for the enhancement of hydraulic performance of geosynthetic clay liners
Authors: Syed Masoodhu S. , Natarajan N. , Vasudevan M. 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT

Geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) are mostly used as flow barriers in landfills and waste containments due to their low hydraulic conductivity to prevent the leachate from reaching the environment. The self-healing and swell-shrink properties of soft clays (expansive soils) such as bentonite enable them as promising materials for the GCL core layers. However, it is important to modify their physico-chemical properties in order to overcome the functional limitations of GCL under different hydraulic conditions. In the present study, locally available black cotton soil (BCS) is introduced in the presence of an anionic polymer named carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as an alternative to bentonite to enhance the hydraulic properties of GCL under different compositions. The modified GCL is prepared by stitching the liner with an optimum percentage of CMC along with various percentages of BCS mixed with bentonite. Hydraulic conductivity tests were performed on the modified GCL using the flexi-wall permeameter. The results suggest that the lowest hydraulic conductivity of 4.58 × 10−10 m/s is obtained when 25% of BCS is blended with bentonite and an optimum 8% CMC and further addition of BCS results in the reduction of the hydraulic conductivity.
Synthesis of Polypeptides by Ring-opening Polymerization: A Concise Review
Authors: Badreldin Mostafa , Salas-Ambrosio Pedro , Ayala Marcela , Harrisson Simon , Bonduelle Colin 
Published: March 2024

Abstract:
The most economical and efficient route to prepare polypeptides from synthetic
chemistry is through the Ring-opening Polymerization (ROP) of amino acids using Ncarboxyanhydride
(NCA) monomers. Peptide polymers, in contrast to proteins, consist of
repeated amino acid units and are comparatively simpler macromolecules. Despite their
simplicity, these polypeptides offer a unique combination of beneficial traits found in both
synthetic polymers (such as solubility, processability, and rubber elasticity) and natural
proteins (including secondary structure, functionality, and biocompatibility). Nevertheless,
NCA polymerization faces significant challenges, including intricate monomer purification
and the necessity for processing toxic solvents. In this context, this review presents the fundamental
principles of this polymer chemistry, the synthesis of NCA monomers, and the
different methodologies to access polypeptides by ROP. It also explores the most recent advances in this field
of research, with a focus on how new methods enable the use of more reactive initiators and the development of
original processes, including the use of aqueous solvents.
The Relationship between Statin Intake and Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bagheri Hesamaldin , Adeli Omid-Ali , Heidari-Soureshjani Saeid , Azadegan-Dehkordi Zahra , MT Sherwin Catherine 
Published: March 2024

Background:
Pancreatic neoplasm is one of the types of cancer with a high incidence
and case-fatality rate.

Objectives:
This study was designed to investigate the relationship between statin intake and the
risk of pancreatic cancer with a systematic review and meta-analysis approach.

Methods:
This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published before 2023
in Cochrane Library, Web of Science (WOS), PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus,
and Embase databases. The statistical analyses were conducted using Stata software, version 15.
The significance level for this study was set at 0.05.

Results:
This meta-analysis included 32 studies and a total of 5,849,814 participants. The risk ratio
(RR) of pancreatic cancer in comparison to the non-statin receiving group in statin users in total
was equal to 0.75 (95% CI: 0.66-0.86, p-value <0.001), in the cohort studies was obtained to be
0.70 (0.53-0.93), in the randomized clinical trials (RCTs) had a ratio of 0.99 (0.53-1.86), while
studies conducted in American countries had a ratio of 0.69 (0.51-0.93), studies in Asian countries
had a ratio of 0.73 (0.56-0.97), and studies in European countries had a ratio of 0.88 (0.76-1.02).
Furthermore, the study did not detect any signs of publication bias.

Conclusion:
The study findings suggest a potential connection between using statins and a lower
risk of pancreatic cancer. However, it is important to note that controlled clinical trials did not
find a statistically significant association between taking statins and the development of pancreatic
cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to exercise caution when interpreting the results of this study.
Historical Neighborhoods of Edirne
Authors: Erdoğan Nevnihal 
Published: March 2024

Developing out of its former role as an old Byzantine fortress, the city
advanced greatly as a Turkish-Muslim city in the Ottoman Empire. The main means of
growth resulted from the establishment of benevolent facilities managed by a charitable
foundation. These charitable foundations, known as Wakfs, had a significant impact on
facilitating the shift towards settled living in both Anatolia and Rumelia. The
advancement was greatly enhanced by the buildings, constructions and enhancement
efforts directed by the successive sultans and prominent state members of varying
levels of authority (second-degree, and third-degree officials of the state). Edirne was
established based on the formula that declares, “there is a mosque in the center of the
neighborhood and the neighborhood is a physical unit as well as a social unit”, and this
type of settlement approach was then implemented in most neighborhoods. The chapter
examines the various original establishments, such as mosques, baths, fountains, and
soup kitchens, as well as the layout of settlements.
Today, the old neighborhoods within each district have amalgamated to create novel
neighborhoods. The fundamental constituents of the old neighborhoods in the nine
regions encompassing public kitchens, mosques, baths, charitable endowments,
thoroughfares, and residences endure in certain neighborhoods to a certain extent,
whereas in other areas, they have become entirely extinct.In the existing housing settlements, one can see the effect of traditional Anatolian
housing types, Hilani and Megaron, in the plans of houses in the outer districts, and
even in the city center. Plan types with outer sofas could have one, two, three, or four
rooms, while two- and three-roomed examples are more common.
Edirne’s Past and Present Social and Economic Lives
Authors: Erdoğan Nevnihal 
Published: March 2024

During those years, when Edirne served as the capital city of the Ottoman
Empire, it was also a leading center for skilled trades and the production of various
artifacts. Edirne was especially known for its wood carving, lacquered bowls and
boxes, floral paintings, book covers, calligraphy and engraving, and tombstone carving.
Very few of these trades have survived to the present.
It is a unique location as a crossroad of civilizations has bequeathed Edirne with a rich
heritage of folk lore and music. Edirne cuisine has its own cooking techniques and
eating habits. Fruits and vegatables are used more in this kitchen.
Festivals in Edirne were organized for the benefit of large crowds of people, rahter than
for a wealthy minority such as it was custom at the European Royal celebrations. We
can easily say that these celebrations have been a part of the daily life of the people.
Concerning festivities were organized on various occasions and the celebrations of the
professional guilds, such as weddings or inaugurations. The city is very rich in terms of
natural beauty. Among these, the most important ones are Inner Palace Grounds, the
cypress grounds, and banks of the Maritsa and Tunca rivers.