bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of selected operating conditions on starting spot width of test substance dissolved in solvent of high elution strength
Authors: Gwarda Radosław Ł. , Kwarciany Mateusz , Artykiewicz Klaudia , Chomicki Adam , Dzido Tadeusz H. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe operational conditions for applying solutions of a dye (Oil Red) dissolved in acetone and methanol to a chromatographic plate are described. These solvents are characterized by high elution power, but they are very good solvents of various substances, so they are often used for this purpose in laboratory practice. However, their unfavorable feature, due to their use as solvents of samples placed on a chromatographic plate, is their high elution strength, which contributes to an increase of the diameter of the starting spot. To eliminate or reduce this unfavorable effect, this research used operational factors such as reduced speed of applying the test solution to the chromatographic plate, increased temperature (40 and 55 °C), and reduced pressure by 0.15 bar relative to atmospheric pressure. All this accelerated the evaporation of the solvents and led to smaller application spots. Studies have shown that the above-mentioned operational factors performed using equipment available in a regular laboratory contribute to a significant reduction of the starting spot despite the use of sample solvents with high elution strength.
Understanding the interplay between particle shape, grading and sample density on the behaviour of granular assemblies: A DEM approach
Authors: Adesina Peter , O’Sullivan Catherine , Wang Teng 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the interplay between particle shape, grading and initial sample density, three of the most important factors influencing the mechanical behaviour of sheared granular assemblies. Using the discrete element method (DEM), two-dimensional assemblies of varying initial sample density, particle aspect ratio, $$AR$$

AR

, and coefficients of uniformity, $${C}_{u}$$

C
u

, were prepared and subjected to drained biaxial shearing until the critical state was reached. We assessed the interplay between each of these parameters by evaluating whether the effect of any given parameter on a mechanical quantity is influenced by any other parameter. Our analyses show that the effect of some of these key parameters on mechanical response, can indeed be influenced by other key parameters. The effect of the particle $$AR$$

AR

on the peak shear strength for the initially dense assemblies differs when compared with the medium-dense assemblies. The mechanical coordination number of the assemblies at the initial state correlates with the peak strength thereby explaining the interplay between particle $$AR$$

AR

and initial sample density on the peak shear strength. The linear relationship established between strength and dilatancy for a combination of all assemblies studied suggests that the strength-dilatancy relationship is a unique characteristic of granular assemblies. The dilatancy of the assemblies correlates strongly with the amount of contacts lost during shearing. The interplays found between particle shape, grading and initial sample density in this study show that to develop robust constitutive models for the prediction of granular material behaviour, the effects of multiple factors must be considered.
Graphic abstract
Short-term outcomes of preoperative chemotherapy with docetaxel, oxaliplatin, and S-1 for gastric cancer with extensive lymph node metastasis (JCOG1704)
Authors: Kurokawa Yukinori , Doki Yuichiro , Kitabayashi Ryo , Yoshikawa Takaki , Nomura Takashi , Tsuji Kunihiro , Goto Masahiro , Cho Haruhiko , Hihara Jun , Hiki Naoki , Nunobe Souya , Mizusawa Junki , Boku Narikazu , Terashima Masanori 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
The prognosis for marginally resectable gastric cancer with extensive lymph node metastasis (ELM) remains unfavorable, even after R0 resection. To assess the safety and efficacy of preoperative docetaxel, oxaliplatin, and S-1 (DOS), we conducted a multicenter phase II trial.

Methods
Eligibility criteria included histologically proven HER2-negative gastric adenocarcinoma with bulky nodal (bulky N) involvement around major branched arteries or para-aortic node (PAN) metastases. Patients received three cycles of docetaxel (40 mg/m2, day 1), oxaliplatin (100 mg/m2, day 1), and S-1 (80–120 mg/body, days 1–14), followed by gastrectomy with D2 plus PAN dissection. Subsequently, patients underwent postoperative chemotherapy with S-1 for 1 year. The primary endpoint was major (grade ≥ 2a) pathological response rate (pRR) according to the Japanese Classification of Gastric Carcinoma criteria.

Results
Between October 2018 and March 2022, 47 patients (bulky N, 20; PAN, 17; both, 10) were enrolled in the trial. One patient was ineligible. Another declined any protocol treatments before initiation. Among the 45 eligible patients who initiated DOS chemotherapy, 44 (98%) completed 3 cycles and 42 (93%) underwent R0 resection. Major pRR and pathological complete response rates among the 46 eligible patients, including the patient who declined treatment, were 57% (26/46) and 24% (11/46), respectively. Common grade 3 or 4 toxicities were neutropenia (24%), anorexia (16%), febrile neutropenia (9%), and diarrhea (9%). No treatment-related deaths occurred.

Conclusions
Preoperative chemotherapy with DOS yielded favorable pathological responses with an acceptable toxicity profile. This multimodal approach is highly promising for treating gastric cancer with ELM.
Glomerular filtration rate measurement during platinum treatment for urothelial carcinoma: optimal methods for clinical practice
Authors: Stormoen Dag Rune , Joensen Ulla Nordström , Daugaard Gedske , Oturai Peter , Hyllested Emil , Lauritsen Jakob , Pappot Helle 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
We assessed the accuracy of four estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) methods: MDRD, Cockcroft–Gault, CKD-EPI, and Wright.

Method
The four methods were compared to measure GFR (mGFR) in patients with urothelial urinary tract cancer (T2-T4bNxMx) receiving platinum-based chemotherapy at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, from January 2019 to December 2021. Using standardized assays, creatinine values were measured, and mGFR was determined using Technetium-99 m diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (Tc-99 m-DTPA) or Cr-51-ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (Cr-51-EDTA) plasma clearance. Patients (n = 146) with both mGFR and corresponding creatinine values available were included (n = 345 measurements).

Results
The CKD-EPI method consistently demonstrated superior accuracy, with the lowest Total Deviation Index of 21.8% at baseline and 22.9% for all measurements compared to Wright (23.4% /24.1%), MDRD (26.2%/25.5%), and Cockcroft–Gault (25.x%/25.1%). Bland Altman Limits of agreement (LOA) ranged from − 32 ml/min (Cockcroft–Gault) to + 33 ml/min (MDRD), with CKD-EPI showing the narrowest LOA (− 27 ml/min to + 24 ml/min and lowest bias (0.3 ml/min). Establishing an eGFR threshold at 85 ml/min—considering both the lower limit of agreement (LOA) and the minimum cisplatin limit at 60 ml/min—allows for the safe omission of mGFR in 30% of patients in this cohort.

Conclusion
CKD-EPI equation emerged as the most suitable for estimating kidney function in this patient group although not meeting benchmark criteria. We recommend its use for initial assessment and ongoing monitoring, and suggest mGFR for patients with a CKD-EPI estimated GFR below 85 ml/min. This approach could reduce costs and decrease laboratory time for 30% of our UC patients.
Dissolution recycling for recovery of polypropylene and glass fibres
Authors: Gravgaard Ditte Paikjær , Henriksen Martin Lahn , Hinge Mogens 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe push for increasing the recycling of plastics is intensifying, and the growing use of composites creates a need to increase the recyclability of polymer composites at their end-of-life. As opposed to thermal and chemical recycling techniques, recycling by dissolution has the benefit of enabling the recovery of both fibre and matrix from thermoplastic composites without altering their chemical composition. In this study, suspensions of polypropylene and glass fibres of varying concentrations were obtained upon dissolution in xylene heated to 130 °C. Subsequent filtration enabled the separation and recovery of both clean fibre and polypropylene fractions. The chemical structures of both fractions were identified by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy as pure polypropylene and clean glass fibres. The recovered glass fibres contained 1 wt% organic material from glass fibre sizing, and the recovered and pristine polypropylene showed no sign of remaining fibres.
Lifecycle model-based evaluation of infant 4CMenB vaccination in the UK
Authors: Sevilla J. P. , Tortorice Daniel , Kantor David , Regan John , Meszaros Kinga H. , Beck Ekkehard C. , Begum Najida , Bloom David E. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Objectives
Invasive meningococcal disease, an uncommon but severe disease, imposes catastrophic health and economic burdens. Cost–utility analysis (CUA) assumes separability in lifetime health and economic variables and cannot capture the full value of preventing such burdens. We overcome these limitations with a retrospective societal perspective cost–benefit analysis (CBA) of meningococcal serogroup B vaccination (4CMenB) of one infant cohort in the United Kingdom using a health-augmented lifecycle model (HALM) incorporating health’s interactions with consumption, earnings, non-market time and financial risk.

Methods
We used a static Markov model of vaccination’s health impact and an HALM to estimate the private willingness to pay (PWTP) for the intrinsic and instrumental value of health under perfect capital markets, financial risk protection in the absence of insurance against permanent disability, parental spillovers, and acute phase disability. We estimated social WTP (SWTP) incorporating social severity preferences. We estimated rates of return that inform health payer reimbursement decisions, finance ministry budgeting decisions, and legislature taxation decisions. An expert Advisory Board investigated the validity of applying the HALM to infant 4CMenB.

Results
The PWTP for a 2 + 1 vaccination schedule is £395, comprising £166 of disability insurance value, £79 of positive parental spillover value, £28 in the value of averting acute phase disability, and £122 in residual intrinsic and instrumental value of health. SWTP is £969.

Conclusions
HALM-based CBA provides an empirically richer, more utility–theoretically grounded approach to vaccine evaluation than CUA, demonstrating good value for money for legislatures (based on private values) and for all decision-makers (based on social values).
Modulatory effects of dietary prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) peel on high salinity tolerance, growth rate, immunity and antioxidant capacity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Salem Mohamed E. , Almisherfi Hebatollah M. , El-Sayed Abdel-Fattah M. , Makled Sarah O. , Abdel-Ghany Heba M. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis study evaluated the effects of prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) peel (PPP) on salinity tolerance, growth, feed utilization, digestive enzymes, antioxidant capacity, and immunity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). PPP was incorporated into four iso-nitrogenous (280 g kg−1 protein) and iso-energetic (18.62 MJ kg−1) diets at 0 (PPP0), 1 (PPP1), 2 (PPP2), and 4 (PPP4) g kg−1. Fish (9.69 ± 0.2 g) (mean ± SD) were fed the diets for 75 days. Following the feeding experiment, fish were exposed to a salinity challenge (25‰) for 24 h. Fish survival was not affected by the dietary PPP inclusion either before or after the salinity challenge. Fish fed the PPP-supplemented diets showed lower aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, cortisol, and glucose levels compared to PPP0, with the lowest values being observed in PPP1. Fish fed dietary PPP had higher growth rates and feed utilization than PPP0. Quadratic regression analysis revealed that the best weight gain was obtained at 2.13 g PPP kg−1 diet. The highest activities of protease and lipase enzymes were recorded in PPP1, while the best value of amylase was recorded in PPP2, and all PPP values were higher than PPP0. Similarly, PPP1 showed higher activities of lysozyme, alternative complement, phagocytic cells, respiratory burst, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase, and lower activity of malondialdehyde than in PPP0. Further increases in PPP levels above 2 g kg−1 diet led to significant retardation in the immune and antioxidant parameters. Thus, the inclusion of PPP at about 1 to or 2 g kg−1 diet can improve stress tolerance, immunity, and antioxidant capacity in Nile tilapia.
Unraveling the potential of vitamins C and D as adjuvants in depression treatment with escitalopram in an LPS animal model
Authors: Gammoh Omar , Akasheh Rand T. , Qnais Esam , Al-Taber Sara , Athamneh Rabaa Y. , Hafiz Amin A. , Alqudah Abdelrahim , Aljabali Alaa A. A. , Tambuwala Murtaza M. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractDepression is linked with oxidative stress and inflammation, where key players include nitric oxide (NO), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), and Heme Oxidase-1 (HO-1). Augmenting the efficacy of antidepressants represents a compelling avenue of exploration. We explored the potential of vitamins C and D as adjuncts to escitalopram (Esc) in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression model focusing on the aforementioned biomarkers. Male Swiss albino mice were stratified into distinct groups: control, LPS, LPS + Esc, LPS + Esc + Vit C, LPS + Esc + Vit D, and LPS + Esc + Vit C + Vit D. After a 7-day treatment period, a single LPS dose (2 mg/kg), was administered, followed by comprehensive assessments of behavior and biochemical parameters. Notably, a statistically significant (p < 0.05) alleviation of depressive symptoms was discerned in the Esc + Vit C + Vit D group versus the LPS group, albeit with concomitant pronounced sedation evident in all LPS-treated groups (p < 0.05). Within the cortex, LPS reduced (p < 0.05) the expression levels of NOx, Nrf2, BDNF, and HO-1, with only HO-1 being reinstated to baseline in the LPS + Esc + Vit D and the LPS + Esc + Vit C + Vit D groups. Conversely, the hippocampal NOx, Nrf2, and HO-1 levels remained unaltered following LPS administration. Notably, the combination of Esc, Vit C, and Vit D effectively restored hippocampal BDNF levels, which had been diminished by Esc alone. In conclusion, vitamins C and D enhance the therapeutic effects of escitalopram through a mechanism independent of Nrf2. These findings underscore the imperative need for in-depth investigations.
Zero sum subsequences and hidden subgroups
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Ivanyos Gábor 
Published: January 2024

AbstractWe propose a method for solving the hidden subgroup problem in nilpotent groups. The main idea is iteratively transforming the hidden subgroup to its images in the quotient groups by the members of a central series, eventually to its image in the commutative quotient of the original group, and then using an abelian hidden subgroup algorithm to determine this image. Knowing this image allows one to descend to a proper subgroup unless the hidden subgroup is the full group. The transformation relies on finding zero sum subsequences of sufficiently large sequences of vectors over finite prime fields. We present a new deterministic polynomial time algorithm for the latter problem in the case when the size of the field is constant. The consequence is a polynomial time exact quantum algorithm for the hidden subgroup problem in nilpotent groups having constant nilpotency class and whose order only have prime factors also bounded by a constant.
Integration of Engineering Practices into Secondary Science Education: Teacher Experiences, Emotions, and Appraisals
Authors: García-Carmona Antonio , Toma R. Bogdan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSTEM education is present in most recent curriculum reforms around the world. One of the main novelties of this educational movement is the integration of engineering practices into science education. In the Spanish educational context, this implies an important challenge for science teachers. So, this study analyzes whether secondary science teachers are sufficiently prepared for this purpose, as well as to find out their experiences, emotions, and appraisals in this regard. To this end, a questionnaire was designed and administered to 328 secondary science teachers as a representative sample of science teachers in Spain with a confidence level of just over 93%. The reliability of the questionnaire was evidenced by the high degree of internal consistency of the data (α = 0.88). And its validity was determined by means of an exploratory factor analysis. The results reveal that secondary science teachers, in general, have low levels of pedagogical preparation and self-efficacy to integrate engineering practices into science classes, as well as a predominant emotion of insecurity about it. There is also a strong preference among teachers for this to be done in technology subjects. It is concluded that the effective integration of engineering practices into science education is currently a complex challenge that requires ad hoc teacher training plans.
Microstructural Response of Highly Porous Sintered Nano-silver Particle Die Attachments to Thermomechanical Cycling
Authors: Agyakwa Pearl A. , Robertson Stuart , Dai Jingru , Mouawad Bassem , Zhou Zhaoxia , Liu Changqing , Johnson C. Mark 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis paper deals with the performance of sintered nano-silver bonds used as wide-bandgap power module die attachment technology. The paper specifically explores the fine-scale microstructures of highly porous sintered attachments under power cycling to provide a deeper understanding of the significance of porosity as a reliability-related microstructural parameter. Attachments prepared at 220°C using a pressure of 6 MPa for 1 s (parameters known to generate approximately 50% porosity from previous work) and subsequently subjected to 650,000 power cycles between 50°C and 200°C are assessed. A correlative workflow integrating x-ray computed tomography, focused ion beam (FIB) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) data is applied to merge meso- and nanoscale microstructural features to illuminate the degradation mechanisms. The as-sintered Ag layer has a high volume of heterogeneously distributed pores, and consists of randomly oriented equiaxed grains whose sizes vary depending on the local density of the region sampled. Power cycling promotes grain growth and the loss of twin boundaries, and these changes are more pronounced within more dense regions of the Ag attachment. In contrast, the copper substrate appears to undergo some grain refinement, with deformation twins visible within finer-grained zones during power cycling. Cracks, which appear to start off within the Ag layer, propagate across the Ag-Cu boundary and transgranularly through fine-grained regions within the copper with little tortuosity. These observations are discussed within the context of reliability behaviour.
Graphical Abstract
Crossing incentive alignment and adaptive designs in choice-based conjoint: A fruitful endeavor
Authors: Sablotny-Wackershauser Verena , Lichters Marcel , Guhl Daniel , Bengart Paul , Vogt Bodo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractChoice-based conjoint (CBC) analysis features prominently in market research to predict consumer purchases. This study focuses on two principles that seek to enhance CBC: incentive alignment and adaptive choice-based conjoint (ACBC) analysis. While these principles have individually demonstrated their ability to improve the forecasting accuracy of CBC, no research has yet evaluated both simultaneously. The present study fills this gap by drawing on two lab and two online experiments. On the one hand, results reveal that incentive-aligned CBC and hypothetical ACBC predict comparatively well. On the other hand, ACBC offers a more efficient cost-per-information ratio in studies with a high sample size. Moreover, the newly introduced incentive-aligned ACBC achieves the best predictions but has the longest interview time. Based on our studies, we help market researchers decide whether to apply incentive alignment, ACBC, or both. Finally, we provide a tutorial to analyze ACBC datasets using open-source software (R/Stan).
Stage 3 N2 Lung Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Therapeutic Conundrum
Authors: Carter Lily , Apte Vedika , Shukla Arushi , Ghose Aruni , Mamidi Raj , Petohazi Alexandra , Makker Shania , Banerjee Soirindhri , Boussios Stergios , Banna Giuseppe L. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose of Review
The treatment of stage III N2 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains debated. There is an absence of a universally agreed definition of resectability for this heterogeneous group and a lack of trial data.

Recent Findings
We reviewed and compared current international guidelines and evidence surrounding management of stage III N2 NSCLC. The Irish and Australian guidelines advise subcategorising N2 disease into N2a (may be resectable) and N2b (never resectable). On the contrary, American and British guidelines avoid subcategorising N2 disease, emphasising importance of local MDT decisions. It is suggested that evidence for resection of stage III tumours is relatively weak, but that stage IIIA should generally be considered for resection, and stage IIIB is not recommended for resection. For resectable disease, surgery may be combined with neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy, or adjuvant chemotherapy followed by immunotherapy and radiotherapy in selected patients.

Summary
There is some evidence that technically resectable disease can be treated solely with radiotherapy with similar outcomes to resection. In the event of unresectable disease, chemoradiotherapy has been the traditional management option. However, recent studies with chemoradiotherapy alongside immunotherapy appear promising. There are many factors that influence the treatment pathway offered to patients with stage III N2 NSCLC, including patient factors, team expertise, and local resources. Therefore, the role of MDTs in defining resectability and formulating an individualised treatment plan is crucial.
Negotiating with the Past: China’s Tactical Use of History, Emotion and Identity in the Sino-British Talks on the Future of Hong Kong
Authors: Hurst Matthew 
Published: January 2024

AbstractHow did Chinese leaders Deng Xiaoping and Zhao Ziyang feel about Hong Kong? The existing literature has tended to see the Sino-British negotiations over the future of Hong Kong through the economic lens favoured by the British side and described the Chinese side as primarily motivated by nationalism. However, ‘nationalism’ remains a vague concept in need of further definition. This paper focuses on the Chinese side of the negotiation table. It unpacks what ‘nationalism’ meant to Deng and Zhao within the context of the negotiations by examining three interrelated components: history, identity and emotion. This paper then analyses how the Chinese side used history, identity and emotion strategically during the negotiations, focusing on the September 1982 leaders’ meetings as a case study. Adopting a constructivist lens, this paper examines historical documents against frameworks and theories from the social sciences, producing an interdisciplinary analysis of Chinese negotiation tactics. It unravels how China’s leaders used the country’s past to broadcast the Party’s stance to the people, bolster their leadership position and win the advantage over Britain in the Hong Kong negotiations.