Mutual Reinforcement Research Articles

Orientation affects hydrogen bonding cooperativity in polyproline II helical bundles

Hydrogen bond cooperativity (HBC) is the phenomenon where the collective strengthening of hydrogen bonds, by mutual polarization and non-additive electrostatic effects, in a network exceeds the sum of individual interactions. HBC has been well-studied in α-helices and β-sheets, where it critically stabilizes amyloid structures. During the last 20 years, several natural proteins were characterized which contain multiple aligned and hydrogen-bonded polyproline II (PPII) helices. HBC was recently reported for these PPII helices when arranged along one parallel layer, but its existence in the more abundant antiparallel or mixed parallel/antiparallel PPII assemblies is still unknown. Utilizing computational approaches validated through experimental observables, we report that both canonical CO···HN and non-canonical CO···HαCα hydrogen bonds exhibit mutual reinforcement, revealing a complex hydrogen bonding scheme that manifests HBC in antiparallel PPII helices and in mixed parallel/antiparallel orientations. These findings have fundamental relevance for understanding protein conformational stability and implications for PPII helices as a structural building block for protein design.

The Co-Rise of Korean Wave and Korean Brands: The Dynamics of National Design Identity and Brand Building

Introduction and the Purpose of the Study: The global success of Korean cultural products, known as the Korean Wave (Hallyu), has impacted South Korea's economy, extending its influence beyond the entertainment industry to consumer goods. Since 1997, Korean dramas, films, and music have transcended East Asian borders, creating a synergy between cultural exports and international success of South Korean brands such as Samsung, Hyundai, LG, and Kia. This study aims to answer these questions: What are the drivers behind the rise of Korean popular culture, and how can the co-rise of popular culture and major South Korean brands be explained? Literature Review/Background: This article explores the intersection of cultural production, product design and marketing strategies with mutual reinforcement effect between cultural and industrial exports, illustrating how media and design play a catalytic role in economic and cultural globalization. Method: By incorporating historical and descriptive analysis and examining co-branding strategies and design as a competitive advantage, the study focuses on major South Korean brands such as Samsung, Hyundai, LG, and Kia and their collaborations with K-pop groups BTS and BLACKPINK. In this context, the study analyzes the role of co-branding strategies and design in achieving cultural and commercial success. Results: Hallyu not only influences cultural exports but also strengthens industrial exports, creating a mutually supportive effect. Product design and marketing strategies have enabled South Korean brands to reach broader global audiences, influencing consumer perception and brand loyalty by incorporating popular culture. The findings contribute to discussions in visual communication design, media studies and consumer culture. Conclusion: This study offers an interdisciplinary perspective on the role of media and design in economic and cultural globalization. By focusing on the co-rise of Hallyu and South Korean brands, it presents a valuable example of building national brand identity and market expansion strategies.

Integrating competence-aware operator assignment into the mixed model sequencing problem

This paper investigates the impact of operator skills on the performance of mixed model manual assembly lines. The Mixed Model Sequencing Problem with Workload Minimization (MMSP-W) is extended to explicitly incorporate competence-aware operator-workstation assignments. This integrated problem (MMSP-W-OA) effectively reduces workload while minimising competence gaps across assembly line workstations. A modelling framework for quantifying operator performance based on their competencies is also provided and explained. Operators are assessed on multiple competency elements, and the resulting weighted sum of these elements determines the operator's task competency. This approach provides a holistic view of competency, taking into account task similarities and the full experience of operators. To cope with the increased complexity of MMSP-W-OA, a Benders-based fix-and-optimise heuristic is proposed. This method decomposes this integrated complex problem into manageable subproblems, reducing computational times to scales comparable to those of MMSP-W while maintaining reasonable solution quality. Experimental results reveal the mutual reinforcement between the sequencing and operator assignment processes, providing greater accuracy and higher work overload minimisation potential.

Improved Gray Wolf Optimization Algorithm for Tuning Non-integer Order Proportional Integral Derivative Controller Design

In this study, a noninteger-order proportional–integral–derivative (NIOPID) controller was used for controlling the speed of the direct current (DC) motor. The controller parameters have optimally been adjusted using the GWOJOS algorithm formed by combining the Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) algorithm and the recently defined the Joint Opposite Selection (JOS) feature. The JOS brings a mutual reinforcement by a joint of the two opposition strategies Dynamic Opposite (DO) and Selective Leading Opposition (SLO). The DO and SLO improve the balance of exploration and exploitation, respectively, in a given search space. During the optimization phase, JOS helps GWO attack the target quickly by employing SLO. DO help GWO find more opportunities to find the most suitable prey. The GWO is able to improve its performance with JOS. This combination helps accelerating the convergence rate of GWO. We assessed GWOJOS's performance using the benchmark functions from the IEEE Congress on Evolutionary Computation 2017 (CEC2017). The benchmark covers composition, hybrid, multimodal, and unimodal functions. The NIOPID-based speed control system for DC-motor using the GWOJOS algorithm has been designed using a time domain objective function that takes into account the performance criteria (maximum overshoot, steady-state error, rising time, and settling time). Some analyses, including robustness, time and frequency domain simulations, have been used to evaluate the performance of the proposed novel approach. The evaluation results have shown that the performance of GWOJOS was better than the performance of GWO, Slime Mould Algorithm (SMA), Atom Search Optimization (ASO), Simulated Annealing (SA) and the hybrid optimization algorithm created by opposition-based learning (OBL) strategy of SA and SMA algorithms (OBLSMASA).

Nexus among Renewable Energy, Economic Growth, Technology Innovation, CO2 Emissions, and Life Expectancy in NAFTA: What’s the Forum’s Response Amid Time Frequencies?

This study examines the nexus between renewable energy (RE), economic growth (ECOG), technological innovation (TEI), CO2 emissions, urbanization (URB), and life expectancy (LEX) in NAFTA countries driven by the sustainable development framework. Using advanced wavelet coherence with data from 1990M1-2023M12, along with WAMC techniques, the analysis revealed intricate temporal and frequency-based interactions. Technological innovation and renewable energy boost life expectancy by reducing environmental degradation. As for urbanization and economic growth, these modified results anticipate dependent variables by the quality of infrastructure and policies. In the short run, tested causality relationships between variables show non-directional, while medium- and long-term scenarios evidence mutual reinforcement of the variables with life expectancy leading to renewable energy adoption and emissions reduction. The tests confirm WAMC’s almost perfect integration of factors within time scales, stressing thus their collective outcome on life expectancy. Therefore, this study emphasizes the status of appropriate sustainable policies integrating health, energy, and environmental objectives and creating effective measures toward long-term sustainability in NAFTA.

The Implementation of Artificial Intelligence in Quantum Technology

This study is based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Technology which represent two transformative frontiers in modern science. Their integration promises exponential computational enhancements, novel algorithmic models, and robust problem-solving frameworks for intractable problems. This paper explores the synergy between AI and quantum technologies, particularly focusing on how AI algorithms optimize quantum processes and vice versa. We present implementation methodologies, practical results from simulations, and discuss the mutual reinforcement of these technologies for future applications. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with Quantum Technology (QT) promises to revolutionize computational paradigms. This paper explores how AI models can enhance quantum error correction, optimize quantum circuit design, and facilitate quantum system control. We detail the methodology used to implement AI algorithms in quantum simulations and report results that highlight performance improvements in system efficiency, accuracy, and learning rates. The discussion covers implications for quantum computing, communications, and AI-driven quantum research.

Outline of a theory of stigmatization in the personal social services

ABSTRACT This article presents an outline of a theory of stigmatization, consisting of theoretical propositions and a graphic model, which can help describe and explain stigmatization processes in the personal social services. The building blocks of the theory originate from existing theories and previous empirical research including our own study of stigmatization processes among social workers in Sweden and the United States. Pattern matching methodology was key to identifying a need for a new theory. Contributions to existing theory and potential implications for policy and practice are discussed, especially in relation to social work in the personal social services. The outlined theory contributes to existing stigma theory in several ways, of which three key findings are highlighted. The theory suggests: 1) that stigmatization processes can go in several directions, sometimes simultaneously; 2) that stigmatization processes can involve mutual reinforcement which can develop into a negative spiral; 3) that stigma can be placed upon social work as an institution. The outlined theory can be used as a starting point for analysing stigmatization processes in social work in several contexts, such as different institutional or organizational settings. We argue that existing stigma theory does not always provide sufficiently deep or specific explanations that are appropriate for the uniqueness of different settings. Thus, there is a need for a theory that is more precise and adapted to such a setting. The framework can be useful for researchers and university students that need a theory when studying stigma processes in social work practice.

Cocriação e marketing de relacionamento: uma relação de dependência ou mútuo reforço?

Purpose: This paper aims to enhance the theoretical understanding of the relationship between co-creation and relationship marketing. The review aims to identify the main contributions presented in the literature and compare the results of studies addressing both themes. Design/methodology/approach—The research was conducted using a systematic literature review based on Kitchenham's (2004) protocol. We selected articles published from 2018 onwards from the Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect platforms. The final sample consisted of 15 documents relevant to the study. Originality/Relevance—According to recent literature, the results are significant for exploring the understanding of how co-creation and relationship marketing converge. Finding – The research revealed two main perspectives held by companies regarding the relationship between co-creation and relationship marketing: (1) co-creation as a tool for relationship marketing and (2) mutual reinforcement between the two initiatives. Some authors also presented a critical perspective on promoting this relationship, emphasizing the potential for knowledge leakage or the "co-destruction" of value. Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – The relevance of these findings lies in the discussion that integrates the constructs of co-creation and relationship marketing. Although a substantial body of research addresses these topics individually, studies exploring their intersection remain limited. This gap constrains understanding of how these phenomena interact and complement each other within business contexts.

Digital Payments and Sustainable Economic Growth: Transmission Mechanisms and Evidence from an Emerging Economy, Turkey

This study investigates the impact of digital transactions on sustainable economic growth in Turkey, utilizing a vector autoregressive (VAR) model and quarterly data from 2006 to 2023. The results indicate a positive long-term association between digital payments and GDP. Granger causality tests and impulse response functions suggest a bidirectional relationship, highlighting mutual reinforcement between economic activity and digital financial adoption. The study also investigates three potential transmission channels linking digital payments to economic performance: household consumption, productivity, and financial intermediation. Evidence shows that digital payments are associated with increased consumption and financial sector activity, while the link to productivity is less conclusive. These findings imply that policymakers should prioritize digital financial infrastructure development and enhance regulatory frameworks to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

VOICING THE MARGINALISED: IDENTITY, POWER, AND COMMUNICATION IN KAMILA SHAMSIE’S HOME FIRE

This article presents a thematic analysis of Kamila Shamsie’s Home Fire (2017), focusing on the interconnected roles of identity, power, and communication in the construction of diasporic subjectivity within a post-9/11 British context. While existing scholarship has examined these themes individually, few studies have explored how they operate in mutual reinforcement to shape both narrative and character agency. Using a qualitative, interpretive research design, the study employs theoretical frameworks drawn from Postcolonial Theory (Bhabha), Michel Foucault’s discourse and power theory, and Stuart Hall’s cultural identity theory. Through close reading and thematic coding, the analysis reveals that identity in Home Fire is not static but formed through cultural negotiation, surveillance, and media framing. Power is exercised through both institutional mechanisms and personal relationships, while communication, ranging from social media activism to strategic silence, emerges as a contested space of resistance and control. The study contributes to postcolonial and diaspora studies by offering an integrated model that situates communication as a mediating force between identity formation and power dynamics. It also underscores literature’s role in critiquing securitised citizenship, racialised nationalism, and the politics of voice in contemporary society.

Two-lane track geometry facilitates coordination of collective cell migration.

Two-lane track geometry facilitates coordination of collective cell migration.

Dapagliflozin Interrupts Pro‐Fibroinflammatory Interleukin 11‐Tenascin C Mutual Reinforcement in Fibroblasts by Antagonizing Interleukin‐11 Receptor Subunit Alpha

ABSTRACTSodium/glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) protect against heart failure and fibroinflammation with an unclear mechanistic. Recombinant interleukin‐11 (IL11) therapy for thrombocytopenia induces heart failure symptoms and signs. Profibrotic IL11 upregulates extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, whereas pro‐inflammatory tenascin‐C (TNC) is an ECM‐derived alarmin. We hypothesized IL11 upregulated TNC to induce fibroinflammation via Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and prototype SGLT2i dapagliflozin counteracted the effects. We stimulated fibroblasts with IL11 and confirmed TNC upregulation. NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) is known to participate in TNC‐TLR4 signaling. We treated IL11‐stimulated fibroblasts with inhibitors of TLR4 (TLR4i) and NOX2 (NOX2i) and found IL11 induced an imperative profibrotic TNC‐TLR4‐NOX2 auto‐amplification loop. IL11 is known to induce ERK‐dependent positive autofeedback. By finding TLR4i and NOX2i inhibited IL11‐induced ERK phosphorylation, we suspected IL11‐ERK joined TNC‐TLR4‐NOX2 auto‐amplification fibroinflammatory pathway. We stimulated fibroblasts with TNC and found IL11 upregulation. We treated TNC‐stimulated fibroblasts with TLR4i, NOX2i, or neutralizing IL11 antibody and confirmed TLR4‐NOX2 and IL11 were indispensable for TNC‐induced fibrosis. We concluded that IL11‐ERK, TNC‐TLR4, and NOX2 are interdependent in fibroblasts and together make a positive‐feedback loop to sustain fibroinflammation. We checked mRNA expression of relevant proteins from proteinatlas.org and found fibroblasts are overwhelming producers of IL11 and TNC in the heart. IL11 receptor subunit alpha (IL11RA) and TLR4 are highly differentially expressed with the former on cardiomyocytes and the latter on macrophages. We therefore proposed a model of differentially activated IL11RA and TLR4 signaling in response to mutually reinforcing IL11‐TNC alarmins, to explain how activated fibroblasts pivotally support fibroinflammatory microenvironment and how danger signals induce cell‐type‐specific responses. Next, we showed dapagliflozin prevented fibroinflammation induced by IL11 or TNC. Mechanistically, we showed dapagliflozin antagonized IL11RA by molecular docking, fluorescence quenching, and grading‐dose IL11‐signaling inhibitor cocktails studies. In conclusion, dapagliflozin interrupts pro‐fibroinflammatory IL11‐TNC bi‐alarmin mutual reinforcement in human cardiac fibroblasts by antagonizing IL11RA.

Lex Specialis as a Reason-Giving Norm

Abstract Lex specialis is a fundamental tenet of law. It is particularly important in resolving conflicts between international humanitarian law (IHL) and human rights law (HRL). Nonetheless, in recent years, there has been growing interest in developing an alternative approach that harmonises IHL and HRL. This approach emphasises the mutual reinforcement of these two branches of law, rather than their opposition. However, the interaction between the harmonising approach and lex specialis remains poorly understood. This article proposes a reasoning framework for understanding lex specialis, including how it can be defeated. It explains that lex specialis can be seen as a second-order norm that prioritises certain norms over others by providing reasons that work in favour of the first group and against the second group. Nevertheless, the reasons given by lex specialis can be defeated by other reasons, thus reversing the primacy of specific norms over general ones.

Perfectionism unfolding: the mutual reinforcement of employee perfectionism and work goal attainment and the moderating role of psychological capital

ABSTRACT Perfectionism, a common phenomenon among employees, is deemed to have its costs and benefits. Recent research has shifted towards understanding which experiences shape perfectionism; however, little is known about the interplay between perfectionism and work experiences. Drawing on the high performance cycle and the corresponsive principle, we proposed reciprocal relationships between perfectionism and work goal attainment. We expected perfectionistic strivings at T1 to be positively related to work goal attainment at T2 (two months later), which, in turn, should be associated with perfectionistic strivings at T3 (four months after T1). Perfectionistic concerns should relate to a lack of work goal attainment at T2, which should be associated with perfectionistic concerns at T3. Furthermore, we assumed that psychological capital would moderate the relationship between perfectionism and work goal attainment. Data from 260 employees were analysed using structural equation modelling. Results supported that perfectionistic concerns undermine work goal attainment, which then reinforces perfectionistic concerns. The indirect effects of perfectionistic strivings on subsequent perfectionistic strivings via work goal attainment were significant only for employees with high hope and low self-efficacy. We discuss the role of work goal attainment for the development of employee perfectionism and the finite adaptive nature of perfectionistic strivings.

Experimental Investigation on Thermal and Ignition Characteristics of Direct Current (DC) Series Arc in a Lab-Scale Photovoltaic (PV) System

This study investigates the thermal behavior and ignition dynamics of DC series arcs in a lab-scale photovoltaic (PV) system. The impacts of current magnitude, dynamic current variations, and electrode gap on electrode surface temperatures are analyzed, while ignition characteristics of common electrical materials (PC, PVC, XLPO, PPE, etc.) are investigated by analyzing critical time thresholds during the arc-induced combustion. Results show that electrode surface temperatures rise with increased current or larger electrode gaps, driven by the enhanced DC arc energy release. Dynamic current variations (increasing/decreasing) shift the balance between heat accumulation and dissipation, resulting in the nonlinear temperature evolution. Additionally, the peak temperature of the anode is about 50% higher than that of the cathode due to the electron flow-driven heat transfer and particle collisions. Notably, general electrical materials can be ignited successfully by stable DC arcs. The anode can ignite flame-retardant materials within 3 s, while the cathode takes a relatively long time to ignite, approximately 20 to 30 s. Besides, enlarged electrode gaps can induce a mutual reinforcement between arcs and flames, resulting in further stabilized arcs and intensified flames. This highlights potential elevated fire hazards as the connector gap increases due to the DC arc erosion.

Bakuchiol kills Staphylococcus aureus persisters and potentiates colistin activity against Acinetobacter baumannii persisters

Infections associated with bacterial persisters are challenging to cure because they can evade antibiotics and regrow, often resulting in relapse. Current antibiotics are not optimized to target persisters, highlighting the urgent need for new therapeutics. Here, we report that bakuchiol, a plant-derived natural product, exhibits anti-persister and adjuvant properties. Bakuchiol eradicates persisters formed by the gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus at 8 μg/mL and, in combination with 1 μg/mL colistin, completely eliminates persisters formed by the gram-negative bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii. Mechanistic analyses revealed that bakuchiol selectively disrupted bacterial membrane phospholipids while sparing mammalian membranes and exhibited low cytotoxicity. In Acinetobacter baumannii persisters, bakuchiol likely damages phospholipid patches in the outer membrane, causing nominal lethality but facilitating membrane permeabilization. This activity synergizes with colistin, which targets the lipooligosaccharide layer, resulting in the mutual reinforcement of their bactericidal effects. These findings highlight the potential of dual glycolipid–phospholipid targeting as a strategy to combat gram-negative persisters and highlight natural products as valuable sources for anti-persister therapeutics with membrane selectivity.

The socialness of translation and the translationality of society

Abstract Translation is inextricably woven into the fabric of society, both shaped by and shaping the societal contexts in which it operates. This intrinsic connection underscores the inherent socialness of translation. Yet, the interplay between translation and society is not unidirectional; societal existence and evolution are, to varying degrees, contingent upon translation, suggesting a fundamental translationality within social structures. This study examines the multifaceted manifestations of translation’s socialness, evident in its outputs, methodologies, roles, and underlying values. Concurrently, it explores society’s translational qualities, particularly in interpersonal exchanges, knowledge creation and dissemination, societal advancement, and global governance mechanisms. The research further posits that the socialness of translation and the translationality of society engage in a complex dance of mutual reinforcement and potential impediment. By advocating for a more nuanced integration of perspectives from translation studies and sociology, this paper aims to deepen our understanding of the intricate relationship between translation and society, thereby advancing the emerging field of sociological translation studies.

Kolaborasi Guru Dan Peserta Didik Dalam Membangun Disiplin Positif di SMA Negeri 5 Kupang

This study aims to find out: 1) the collaboration of teachers and students in building positive discipline at SMA Negeri 5 Kupang. 2) the factors that inhibit the collaboration of teachers and students in building positive discipline at SMA Negeri 5 Kupang. The type of research uses qualitative methods. The subjects in this study are teachers and students. Data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and documentation and data analysis techniques used are data collection, data reduction, data presentation and conclusions. The results of this study show that: the collaboration of teachers and students in building positive discipline at SMA Negeri 5 Kupang is in the form of 1) mutual trust, 2) mutual respect, 3) mutual care, and 4) mutual reinforcement. The factors that hinder teacher and student collaboration in building positive discipline at SMA Negeri 5 Kupang are: 1) not being responsible for their duties, 2) lacking confidence, 3) often seeking attention from others, and 4) often lying as an excuse for coming to school late.

Enhanced Closed Incisional Negative Pressure Therapy for Treating Infectious Scars.

Chronic infectious pathological scars, characterized by mutual reinforcement between infection and pathological scarring, pose challenges in reconstructive surgery. We introduce an enhanced closed incisional negative pressure therapy following a 1-stage surgery to simultaneously eradicate infection and alleviate wound tension. A total of 25 patients who underwent chronic infectious pathological scar treatment by using this enhanced closed incisional negative pressure therapy were retrospectively reviewed. The outcomes were evaluated by postoperative recurrence frequency of infection and scarring during a 1-year follow-up, as well as the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale and quality-of-life scores. After treatment, no serious complications, such as incision dehiscence, occurred. The average wound healing time was 12.68 days. Only 1 patient experienced surgical site scarring. Besides, average infection frequency decreased significantly from 6.40 to 0.00 times per year (P < 0.0001). The Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale score decreased from 81.60 to 25.36 (P < 0.0001), whereas the quality-of-life score increased from 2.20 to 4.88 (P < 0.0001). The enhanced closed incisional negative pressure therapy effectively facilitated infectious wound healing in a 1-stage operation and simultaneously prevented infection and scarring recurrence in long-term follow-up, resulting in satisfactory postoperative outcomes.

A Guide for Developing Demo-Genetic Models to Simulate Genetic Rescue.

Genetic rescue is a conservation management strategy that reduces the negative effects of genetic drift and inbreeding in small and isolated populations. However, such populations might already be vulnerable to random fluctuations in growth rates (demographic stochasticity). Therefore, the success of genetic rescue depends not only on the genetic composition of the source and target populations but also on the emergent outcome of interacting demographic processes and other stochastic events. Developing predictive models that account for feedback between demographic and genetic processes ('demo-genetic feedback') is therefore necessary to guide the implementation of genetic rescue to minimize the risk of extinction of threatened populations. Here, we explain how the mutual reinforcement of genetic drift, inbreeding, and demographic stochasticity increases extinction risk in small populations. We then describe how these processes can be modelled by parameterizing underlying mechanisms, including deleterious mutations with partial dominance and demographic rates with variances that increase as abundance declines. We combine our suggestions of model parameterization with a comparison of the relevant capability and flexibility of five open-source programs designed for building genetically explicit, individual-based simulations. Using one of the programs, we provide a heuristic model to demonstrate that simulated genetic rescue can delay extinction of small virtual populations that would otherwise be exposed to greater extinction risk due to demo-genetic feedback. We then use a case study of threatened Australian marsupials to demonstrate that published genetic data can be used in one or all stages of model development and application, including parameterization, calibration, and validation. We highlight that genetic rescue can be simulated with either virtual or empirical sequence variation (or a hybrid approach) and suggest that model-based decision-making should be informed by ranking the sensitivity of predicted probability/time to extinction to variation in model parameters (e.g., translocation size, frequency, source populations) among different genetic-rescue scenarios.