In this paper we will prove some fixed point theorems for nonself multi-valued contraction type operators in complete strong b-metric spaces endowed with a b-convex structure.
In this survey, we aim to present historical turning points and recent insightful results on the analysis of the Euler-Mascheroni constant.
Increasing electric vehicle (EV) adoption raises concerns about EV waste management and the impact on the environment. To improve energy efficiency and exploit their remaining usable capacity, the retired batteries may be repurposed in second-life applications. This paper predicts the usable second-life capacity of retired EV batteries, considering the European Union (EU) regulation regarding the mandatory recycled critical material quotas in newly manufactured batteries from 2031 onwards. Based on political influences and the market’s capacity to return to pre-pandemic values, four scenarios are proposed regarding future EV sales in the EU market. The algorithm implemented in Matlab R2025a indicates the batteries that must be recycled to meet the mandatory targets and the ones that can be repurposed as battery energy storage systems. Historical data and future predictions are used to determine the number of EV batteries sold, lifetime, the market’s chemistry share and the usable capacity for second life. The annual mandatory recycled critical material content is compared to the available recyclable mass from both retired batteries in the current year and those that are already active in their second life. The economic analysis reveals the scenario with the highest total revenue, including the cascade benefits and recycling value.
Contemporary digital technologies reshape human deliberation through micro-targeting, persuasive design, and algorithmic systems capable of anticipating and steering behaviour. Cognitive autonomy thus emerges as a central legal value. The analysis of the European normative framework, correlated with recent literature in neuroscience and behavioural economics, highlights the need to recognise mental integrity as an autonomous object of legal protection. Existing regulations structure data protection, digital competition, and commercial practices, while the dynamics of willformation call for distinct regulatory articulation. The article advances a transdisciplinary vision grounded in legal analysis, scientific knowledge, and technological design within a unified conceptual framework. The concept of Authenticity-by-Design is formulated as an operational model oriented toward cognitive impact assessments, standards of neutral design, and mechanisms of algorithmic transparency. Mental autonomy is conceptualised as an expression of dignity and a structural condition of freedom in an algorithmic society.
Galectins are a family of proteins that belong to one of the most widespread classes of lectins found in all organisms. They are found intracellularly in various structures or secreted into the extracellular space, where they are involved in mediating cellular biological processes such as growth, function, interaction and response. They are known for their ability to bind to carbohydrates, specifically those containing beta-galactose. This narrative review outlines the human galectins, emphasizing Galectin-3, a β-galactoside-binding protein with numerous pleiotropic regulatory activities; it mediates various biological processes. Galectin-3 is an extensively studied member due to its broad implications in health and disease and we highlight the need for deeper insights into the molecular mechanisms and clinical implications of Galectin-3 as well as the context-dependent mechanisms through which Galectin-3 influences diverse physiological and pathological processes. Literature syntheses and scientific research, as well as clinical and experimental studies, were investigated regarding the biological and pathophysiological actions and implications of Galectin-3 in diseases. The study presents the structure, characteristics, roles, activities, and proinflammatory actions (as a mediator) and anti-inflammatory actions (as a modulator) of Galectin-3, as well as the main groups of diseases in which it is involved or associated with cardiovascular diseases, cancer, organ fibrosis, and metabolic diseases. The results emphasized the potential of Galectin-3 as an important molecule and highlighted the necessity for further research to improve its approach. This narrative review provides new insights into identifying its functions and the future development and rational design of Galectin-3-directed research strategies.
