bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Crossed molecular beam studies of bimolecular reactions of atomic oxygen with nitrogen-bearing organic molecules (nitriles and N-heterocyclic)
Authors: Pannacci Giacomo , Vanuzzo Gianmarco , Balucani Nadia , Casavecchia Piergiorgio 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn this contribution, dedicated to the memory of Prof. Gian Gualberto Volpi, we provide a short review of recent work carried out in our laboratory on reactive scattering studies of the reaction dynamics of atomic oxygen with nitrogen-bearing organic molecules. Specifically, we focus on the polyatomic bimolecular reactions of atomic oxygen, both in the ground and first excited state, O(3P) and O(1D), with the simplest unsaturated nitriles, namely HCCCN (cyanoacetylene) and CH2CHCN (cyanoethylene, or acrylonitrile), and with the simplest six-member ring N-heterocyclic compound, pyridine (C5H5N). Using the crossed molecular beam (CMB) scattering technique with universal electron-impact ionization mass-spectrometric detection and time-of-flight analysis to measure product angular and velocity distributions, the primary product channels and their branching fractions were determined, thus assessing the central role played by intersystem-crossing (ISC) in this class of reactions. The experimental work was synergistically accompanied by theoretical calculations of the relevant triplet and singlet potential energy surfaces (PESs) to assist the interpretation of experimental results and elucidate the reaction mechanism, including extent of ISC. Cyanoacetylene and cyanoethylene are of considerable interest in astrochemistry being ubiquitous (and relatively abundant) in space including comets and the upper atmosphere of Titan. Being oxygen the third most abundant element in space, the title reactions are of considerable relevance in the chemistry of extraterrestrial environments. In addition, they are also important in combustion chemistry, because thermal decomposition of pyrrolic and pyridinic structures present in bound N-containing fuels generates N-bearing compounds including, in particular, the above two nitriles.
Recovery of Potassium from Pyrolysis Product of Sugar Fabrication Waste Carbonation Cake and Vinasse Mixture and Production of Adsorbent for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Türk Feride N. , Arslanoğlu Hasan 
Published: February 2024

AbstractIn this study, percolation tests with water were carried out on the products that were subjected to pyrolysis and obtained in order to carbonize the organics in the vinasse carbonation cake mixtures. For this purpose, the mixtures prepared from the concentrated vinasse supplied from Sugar Factory and the carbonation cake supplied from Sugar Factory were heated at 500 °C for 4 h, and the extractability and dissolution rate of potassium into water were determined by leaking water over the products. The ability of the residue to remove methylene blue from the aquatic environment was determined. It should be emphasized that the solid residue from the potassium extraction has a considerable amount (289–370 mg/g) and a basic dye removal capacity greater than that of the raw carbonation cake (208 mg/g). COD value in the extract of the pyrolysis product with a cake/vinasse ratio of 0.5 was determined as 970 mg/l with a significant increase. The methylene blue removal capacity of the extraction residue samples obtained in this group of experiments decreases as the dry cake–vinasse ratio increases. It should be emphasized that the composite product obtained by taking advantage of these results can be actively used in the production of compound fertilizer.
Impact of pulmonary complications following esophagectomy on long-term survival: multivariate meta-analysis and restricted mean survival time assessment
Authors: Manara Michele , Bona Davide , Bonavina Luigi , Aiolfi Alberto ,   OGSA Group for Esophagogastric Surgery, Bonitta Gianluca , Guraj Juxhin , Guerrazzi Guglielmo , Campanelli Giampiero , Cavalli Marta , Popa Călin , Schlanger Diana , Griffiths Ewen A , Biondi Antonio 
Published: February 2024

AbstractPulmonary complications (PC) are common after esophagectomy and their impact on long-term survival is not defined yet. The present study aimed to assess the effect of postoperative PCs on long-term survival after esophagectomy for cancer. Systematic review of the literature through February 1, 2023, was performed. The included studies evaluated the effect of PC on long-term survival. Primary outcome was long-term overall survival (OS). Cancer-specific survival (CSS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were secondary outcomes. Restricted mean survival time difference (RMSTD), hazard ratio (HR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as pooled effect size measures. Eleven studies were included (3423 patients). Overall, 674 (19.7%) patients developed PC. The RMSTD analysis shows that at 60-month follow-up, patients not experiencing PC live an average of 8.5 (95% CI 6.2–10.8; p < 0.001) months longer compared with those with PC. Similarly, patients not experiencing postoperative PC seem to have significantly longer CSS (8 months; 95% CI 3.7–12.3; p < 0.001) and DFS (5.4 months; 95% CI 1.6–9.1; p = 0.005). The time-dependent HRs analysis shows a reduced mortality hazard in patients without PC at 12 (HR 0.6, 95% CI 0.51–0.69), 24 (HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.55–0.73), 36 (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.55–0.79), and 60 months (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51–0.89). This study suggests a moderate clinical impact of PC on long-term OS, CSS, and DFS after esophagectomy. Patients not experiencing PC seem to have a significantly reduced mortality hazard up to 5 years of follow-up.
Graphical abstract
Local administration of irinotecan using an implantable drug delivery device stops high-grade glioma tumor recurrence in a glioblastoma tumor model
Authors: Abdelnabi Dina , Lastakchi Sarah , Watts Colin , Atkins Hannah , Hingtgen Shawn , Valdivia Alain , McConville Christopher 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe treatment for Glioblastoma is limited due to the presence of the blood brain barrier, which restricts the entry of chemotherapeutic drugs into the brain. Local delivery into the tumor resection margin has the potential to improve efficacy of chemotherapy. We developed a safe and clinically translatable irinotecan implant for local delivery to increase its efficacy while minimizing systemic side effects. Irinotecan-loaded implants were manufactured using hot melt extrusion, gamma sterilized at 25 kGy, and characterized for their irinotecan content, release, and drug diffusion. Their therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in a patient-derived xenograft mouse resection model of glioblastoma. Their safety and translatability were evaluated using histological analysis of brain tissue and serum chemistry analysis. Implants containing 30% and 40% w/w irinotecan were manufactured without plasticizer. The 30% and 40% implants showed moderate local toxicity up to 2- and 6-day post-implantation. Histopathology of the implantation site showed signs of necrosis at days 45 and 14 for the 30% and 40% implants. Hematological analysis and clinical chemistry showed no signs of serious systemic toxicity for either implant. The 30% implants had an 80% survival at day 148, with no sign of tumor recurrence. Gamma sterilization and 12-month storage had no impact on the integrity of the 30% implants. This study demonstrates that the 30% implants are a promising novel treatment for glioblastoma that could be quickly translated into the clinic.
Graphical Abstract
Numerical approximation of the boundary control for the wave equation in a square domain with a spectral collocation method
Authors: Boumimez Somia , Castro Carlos 
Published: February 2024

AbstractWe propose a spectral collocation method to approximate the exact boundary control of the wave equation in a square domain. The idea is to introduce a suitable approximate control problem that we solve in the finite-dimensional space of polynomials of degree $$N\in {\mathbb {N}}$$

N
∈
N

in space. We prove that we can choose a sequence of controls $$f^N$$

f
N

associated with the approximate control problem in such a way that they converge, as $$N\rightarrow \infty $$

N
→
∞

, to a control of the continuous wave equation. Unlike other numerical approximations tried in the literature, this one does not require regularization techniques and can be easily adapted to other equations and systems where the controllability of the continuous model is known. The method is illustrated with several examples in 1-d and 2-d in a square domain. We also give numerical evidence of the highly accurate approximation inherent to spectral methods.
Multi-class Facial Emotion Expression Identification Using DL-Based Feature Extraction with Classification Models
Authors: Anand M. , Babu S. 
Published: February 2024

AbstractFacial expression detection from images and videos has recently gained attention due to the wide variety of applications it has found in the field of computer vision such as advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), video retrieval, and security systems. Facial terms, body language, hand gestures, and eye contact have all been researched as a means of deciphering and understanding human emotions. Automated facial expression recognition (FER) is a significant visual recognition procedure because human emotions are a worldwide signal used in non-verbal communication. The six primary universal manifestations of emotion are characterized as happiness, sadness, anger, contempt, fear, and surprise. While the accuracy of deep learning (DL)-based approaches has improved significantly across many domains, automated FER remains a difficult undertaking, especially when it comes to real-world applications. In this research work, two publicly available datasets such as FER2013 and EMOTIC are considered for validation process. Initially, pre-processing includes histogram equalization, image normalization and face detection using Multi-task Cascaded Convolutional Network (MT-CNN) is used. Then, DL-based EfficinetNetB0 is used to extract the features of pre-processed images for further process. Finally, the Weighted Kernel Extreme Learning Machine (WKELM) is used for classification of emotions, where the kernel parameters are optimized by Red Fox Optimizer (RFO). From the experimental analysis, the proposed model achieved 95.82% of accuracy, 95.81% of F1-score and 95% of recall for the testing data.
Addressing global environmental pollution using environmental control techniques: a focus on environmental policy and preventive environmental management
Authors: Awewomom Jonathan , Dzeble Felicia , Takyi Yaw Doudu , Ashie Winfred Bediakoh , Ettey Emil Nana Yaw Osei , Afua Patricia Eyram , Sackey Lyndon N. A. , Opoku Francis , Akoto Osei 
Published: February 2024

AbstractGlobal environmental pollution presents formidable obstacles to the long-term viability of the planet. This study synthesized current relevant literature with statistical snapshots from pollution statistics and reports and presented feasible recommendations to address the ramifications of global environmental pollution. A central focus is laid on the importance of preventive environmental management (PEM) and the strategic enforcement of environmental policies (EP), with a detailed exploration of history evolution and current application challenges. Specifically, the study centers on the significance of environmental policy and preventive environmental management in combatting global pollution. The examination encompasses an overview of environmental pollution and its implications for the environment and human health. It explores the role of environmental policy in mitigating environmental pollution, scrutinizes the principles underlying preventive environmental management, and evaluates the effectiveness of environmental management systems in curbing pollution. Furthermore, the study identifies and analyzes the challenges of implementing environmental control techniques, offering recommendations to overcome these obstacles. The outcomes of this research contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the potential of environmental control methods in tackling global environmental pollution. The study underscores the crucial nature of robust environmental policies and proactive approaches to prevent pollution and foster sustainable development. Additionally, it offers insights into the necessity for collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders at various levels to attain effective pollution control and environmental management.
Do It Right the First Time? Exploring the First Cross-border Acquisition and Expansion Frequency of Emerging Market Multinationals
Authors: Wu Sihong , Fan Di , Soo Christine 
Published: February 2024

AbstractDo it right the first time! But, how? Current dialogue on the expansion of emerging market multinational enterprises (EMNEs) is pervasive. Nonetheless, it ought to have examined strategic attributes and the speed of implementing different strategies for their first venture. Drawing on the springboard perspective, this study tests the impact of EMNEs' first cross-border acquisition (CBA) strategy and speed on their consequential expansion frequency and performance. We also examine the boundary conditions of comparative nationalism between countries, in view of the resurgence of nationalism in an era of deglobalization. Findings reveal that EMNEs' rapid adoption of a focused strategy for their first CBA increases their expansion frequency, while the adoption of a conglomerate strategy decreases it. These relationships are affected in reverse by high comparative nationalism, and the performance consequences of expansion vary with firms using different strategies for their first attempt. This study enriches the EMNE literature and highlights the role of national ideologies in international business research.
The Role of Emotions in the Capabilities Approach: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Sacco Giulio 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe capabilities approach is the theory according to which, in order to assess people's quality of life and reflect on the basic political entitlements, we should consider what people are capable of doing and being. Focusing mostly on Nussbaum's account, a number of scholars analysed the metaethical structure underlying the approach, showing her Aristotelian and Kantian sources. This article explores another aspect of Nussbaum's theory which has so far been somewhat overlooked: the role of emotions in the justification and motivational support of the approach. After showing the importance Nussbaum places on compassion (and other benevolent emotions) to warrant her moral theory, I argue that – assuming her own cognitive account of compassion – her argument begs the question. I will then contend that Nussbaum's case does not have the inner tools to overcome such a circularity, trying to suggest, in conclusion, a possible way out which is consistent with it.
Suicidal Ideation in Canadian Family Caregivers for a Person with Dementia: A Portrait of the Situation
Authors: Teasdale-Dubé Audrée , Viau-Quesnel Charles , Lapierre Sylvie 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThis study aimed to explore the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and potential associations (i.e., strength and direction) with caregiver characteristics or factors. A targeted survey was distributed to dementia caregivers aged 55+ years. Questions concerning psychological distress, suicidal thoughts while caregiving and antecedents of suicidal behaviours were administered. A sample of 71 French-speaking Canadian caregivers completed the survey between May and October 2019. Among them, 52.1 per cent (n = 37) reported suicidal ideation while providing care to a relative or a friend living with dementia. Caregivers who presented suicidal ideation reported more abusive behaviour toward the care recipient. Caregivers who reported suicidal thoughts were significantly more distressed than caregivers without them on measures of burden, depression, and anxiety. Suicidal thoughts in caregivers are important evaluation targets, primarily for the prevention of suicide, but also because caregivers who report suicidal thoughts also present a heightened risk for abusing the care recipient.
Agricultural subsidies: cutting into forest conservation?
Authors: Moffette Fanny , Alix-Garcia Jennifer 
Published: February 2024

AbstractWe examine how agricultural subsidies may induce deforestation and interact with conservation programs by analyzing two large-scale national programs in Mexico that have existed simultaneously for more than a decade: an agricultural subsidy for livestock (PROGAN) and a program of payments for ecosystem services (PES). Looking across the entire Mexican landscape, we exploit the surprises in the timing of enrollment in PROGAN's waves, fluctuations in program payments, and the change in the value of the subsidy induced by inflation and currency fluctuations to identify the impacts of the livestock subsidy on environmental outcomes. We find that PROGAN increased municipal deforestation by 7 per cent. The deforestation effects of PROGAN were smaller in municipalities with higher concentrations of PES recipients. We suggest that livestock subsidies could be better targeted to places with low deforestation risk and high livestock productivity to maximize food production and minimize negative externalities caused by deforestation.
Evaluation of a digital FFQ using 24 h recalls as reference method, for assessment of habitual diet in women with South Asian origin in Norway
Authors: Carlsen Monica H , Totland Torunn Holm , Kumar Radhika , Lensnes Therese ML , Sharma Archana , Suntharalingam A Anita , Tran Anh Thi , Birkeland Kåre I , Sommer Christine 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objective:
Dietary assessment tools should be designed for the target population. We developed an FFQ designed to assess diet in South Asian women in Norway. The study objective was to evaluate this FFQ using 24-h dietary recalls as reference method.

Design:
Approximately 3 weeks after the participants (n 40) had filled in the FFQ, the first of three non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls was completed. The recalls were telephone-based, unannounced and performed by a trained dietitian, with 2–3 weeks between each interview.

Setting:
The DIASA 1 study, in Oslo, Norway.

Participants:
Women of South Asian ethnic origin participating in the DIASA 1 study were invited to participate in the evaluation study.

Results:
The WebFFQasia significantly overestimated the absolute intake of energy, protein, fat and carbohydrates compared with the 24-h dietary recalls. Absolute intakes of sugar, starch and fibre did not differ significantly between the methods. For energy percentages (E%), there were no significant differences, except for monounsaturated fat. Correlations were strong for E% from sugar and saturated fat and moderate for E% from fibre, carbohydrate, total fat and protein. Fourteen food groups out of twenty three were not significantly different compared with the reference method, and sixteen groups showed strong to moderate correlations.

Conclusion:
The WebFFQasia may be used to assess E% from habitual diet and can adequately estimate intakes and rank participants according to nutrient intake and main food categories at group level.
‘It is human work’: qualitatively exploring community roles that facilitate cultural food security for people from refugee backgrounds
Authors: Gingell Tina , Adhikari Rishita , Eltahir Nehal , Ntahomvukiye Fulgence , Pe Evelyn , Murray Kate , Correa-Velez Ignacio , Gallegos Danielle 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objectives:
Cultural food security is crucial for cultural health and, for people from refugee backgrounds, supports the settlement journey. Cultural communities are vital in facilitating access to cultural foods; however, it is not understood how refugee-background communities sustain cultural food security in the Australian context. This study aimed to explore key roles in refugee-background communities to understand why they were important and how they facilitate cultural food security.

Design:
Interviews were conducted by community researchers, and data analysis was undertaken using best-practice framework for collaborative data analysis.

Setting:
Greater Brisbane, Australia.

Participants:
Six interviews were conducted between August and December 2022 with people from a refugee-background community, lived in Greater Brisbane and who fulfilled a key food role in the community that facilitated access to cultural foods.

Results:
Fostering improved cultural food security supported settlement by creating connections across geographical locations and cultures and generated a sense of belonging that supported the settlement journey. Communities utilised communication methods that prioritised the knowledge, wisdom and experience of community members. It also provided community members with influence over their foodways. Community leaders had an ethos that reflected collectivist values, where community needs were important for their own health and well-being.

Conclusions:
Communities are inherently structured and communicate in a way that allows collective agency over foodways. This agency promotes cultural food security and is suggestive of increased food sovereignty. Researchers and public health workers should work with communities and recognise community strengths. Food security interventions should target cultural food security and autonomy.
Why Are All of the Children Perceived to Be Above Average? Stakeholders and the Lake Wobegon Effect in Attitudes toward Public Schools
Authors: Vercellotti Timothy , Fairman Peter 
Published: February 2024

AbstractThe Lake Wobegon effect, named for the fictional town where all children are above average, is well documented in surveys about education. Respondents tend to rate their local public schools higher in quality than schools overall in the state or nation, even despite contrary evidence. One potential explanation for this disconnect is a psychological construct known as “illusory superiority.” While the superiority aspect of illusory superiority is well studied, the illusory nature of these attitudes typically is assumed rather than empirically demonstrated. Further, the predictors of these attitudes also merit exploration. We seek to address both of these points. We hypothesize that illusory superiority in the context of attitudes toward public education may be driven in part by self-interest, and thus may be more likely to be found among those with the biggest stake in local schools, such as parents of students, homeowners, and longtime residents. Using survey data from Massachusetts, we find a factual basis for illusory superiority by comparing perceptions of local school performance on standardized tests to actual scores. We also model predictors of illusory superiority, including property ownership, length of residency, and having children enrolled in public schools, and the role that illusory superiority may play in school ratings. We then assess the effects of overstatement of test scores on attitudes toward a key educational issue – whether to increase taxes to provide additional funding for local schools.