bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two new species of Atatina earthworm (Rhinodrilidae, Clitellata) from the Gurupi Biological Reserve, Maranhão, Brazil
Authors: HERNÁNDEZ-GARCÍA LUIS MANUEL , RODRÍGUEZ GIOVANNY ANGIOLILLO , JAMES SAMUEL WOOSTER , LIMEIRA-DE-OLIVEIRA FRANCISCO , ROUSSEAU GUILLAUME XAVIER
Published: September 2024

Only three species of the Atatina genus had been reported, both living distant one of another in the Amazon. Here we reported two new species for the genus living in remnant forest of the Gurupi Biological Reserve. Atatina arimikuriaka sp. nov. with three pairs of spermathecae, prostomium tentacular, and annular clitellum while Atatina arimikuritea sp. nov. has only one pair of spermathecae in IX, annular clitellum, and a smallest tubercula pubertatis. The two species are unique because the annular clitellum is contrasting with the saddle-shaped of other species.
Influence of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilizers Applications for Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Production Under Irrigation in the Fogera District, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Getu Abebe , Bekele Demisew , Gebremedhin Wubayehu , Asamenew Helen
Published: September 2024

Small-scale tomato production under irrigation is a common practice in the Fogera area of the Amhara Region in Northwest Ethiopia. However, there were no location-specific economic optimum N and P fertilizer recommendations for tomato production in the area. Therefore, a field study was conducted in 2020 and 2021 to investigate the response of tomato to N and P fertilizer applications and determine the economic return of N and P fertilizers applications. Four levels of N (0, 46, 92, and 138 kg N ha-1) and three levels of P (0, 46, and 92 kg P2O5 ha-1) were factorially combined and laid in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results revealed that tomato yield and yield-related attributes were significantly (p<0.01) affected by the main effects of N. However, the main effect of P and its interaction with N did not considerably influence the yield and yield-related parameters. The highest marketable (39.3 t ha-1) and total fruit yields (46.2 t ha-1) of tomato were recorded from the application of 138 kg N ha-1. The highest net economic return of Ethiopian birr 185,538.50 with a marginal rate return of 1326.1% was recorded from the application of 138 kg N ha-1. Therefore, 138 kg ha-1 N can be recommended to increase the yield and economic return of tomato production in Fogera area. However, as the yield response to N followed a linear response curve, further study with higher rates of N than those considered in the present study is recommended.
The Role of Healthcare Administration and Policy in Improving Access to Dialysis for ESRD Patients in CKD: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Perves Noman , Sultana Maleka , Islam Nurul , Khan Abdul , Ahmed Shamim
Published: September 2024

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) presents a critical challenge within the spectrum of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and represents the final stage of CKD, necessitating timely and consistent access to dialysis for patient survival. However, access to dialysis remains significantly constrained in many regions due to a combination of systemic, financial, and infrastructural barriers. This article explores the pivotal role that healthcare administration and policy play in overcoming these challenges to enhance dialysis accessibility for ESRD patients. Multifaceted barriers are there regarding access to dialysis, including the economic burden of treatment, limited availability of dialysis centers, and disparities in healthcare delivery. The analysis then shifts to the policy landscape, discussing existing healthcare policies aimed at expanding dialysis services, as well as gaps that persist in current frameworks. The role of healthcare administration is also scrutinized, particularly in terms of resource allocation, service delivery optimization, and patient education. Through case studies and comparative analysis, it was identified that successful strategies from various regions that have effectively improved access to dialysis. These include public-private partnerships, subsidies, and advancements in telemedicine. The article concludes by offering policy recommendations and administrative strategies tailored to address the unique challenges faced by ESRD patients, emphasizing the need for a collaborative, patient-centered approach in healthcare planning and implementation. By highlighting these key areas, this article aims to provide actionable insights for policymakers, healthcare administrators, and other stakeholders committed to improving dialysis access and, ultimately, patient outcomes for those suffering from ESRD.
Leveraging Synthetic Data for Star and Satellite Photometry
Authors: Chang Kimmy , Cabello Alex , Houchard Jeff , Gazak Jonathan , Fletcher Justin
Published: September 2024

In the realm of Space Domain Awareness (SDA), precise photometric measurements are essential for applications such as stability analysis, shape recovery, and material studies of satellites. However, current methods that rely on manual data collection and analysis are not scalable to autonomous frameworks, which are increasingly necessary due to the growing congestion in space. This research presents an approach to automate photometric measurements within a network of telescopes operating in non-ideal conditions. Our work focuses on achieving reliable photometry in degraded weather conditions, where traditional methods might fail, leading to false detections and unnecessary follow-up efforts. We utilize the SatSim space scene simulator to generate synthetic data for training and testing photometry algorithms. These algorithms include both traditional aperture photometry and machine learning-based approaches. Our methodology employs dynamic segmentation techniques to optimize the detection of satellites and stars under various adverse conditions. The segmentation methods were evaluated for their robustness in different scenarios, with the Depth-First Search + Interquartile Range (DFS + IQR) approach showing the most promise. Through extensive experimentation, we demonstrate that our approach can achieve a photometric precision of approximately 10−1, even in adverse conditions. This represents a significant advancement in the field, as it enables more reliable satellite detection and tracking in real-world, non-photometric environments. Additionally, our ablation studies highlight the importance of balanced datasets in reducing error metrics, particularly for underrepresented satellite classes. This work contributes to the development of more effective autonomous SDA systems, capable of operating efficiently in a wide range of environmental conditions.
A Comparative Study of Fluoride Removal Using Bovine and Goat Bone Chars
Authors: Otieno Geoffrey , Onyango Joab , Sije Lucas
Published: September 2024

Overexposure to fluorides causes dental, skeletal, and crippling fluorosis. Population growth and droughts in Kenya recently necessitated the sinking of boreholes to supply drinking water. The water fetched from the boreholes contains a high concentration of fluorides, consequently increasing the prevalence of dental fluorosis. Bone char remains a sustainable adsorbent to remove fluorides from drinking water as it is environmentally friendly, has high efficiency, is easy to use, and is low cost compared to other adsorbents or fluoride removal methods that may be technically non-feasible in rural communities. This study compared the fluoride removal using bovine and goat bone chars. Bovine and goat bone chars were prepared by calcining in a muffle furnace at 400°C and 600°C. Bone chars made at 400°C appeared gray while those made at 600°C appeared darker. Bone char was activated using 1 M H2SO4 at a ratio of 40 ml per 2 g of bone char and a contact time of 24 hours. The activated bone chars also appeared grey. The surface functional groups were examined by infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), which revealed similar functional groups in both bovine and goat bone char and their activated parts, with notable differences in peak depths. The amount of inorganic materials was determined by portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) which showed high concentrations of Ca, P, Mg, Si, Al, Fe, S, K, Mn and Ti in decreasing concentrations before and after using H2SO4. The prepared bone chars adsorbed fluorides from a concentration of 2 ppm to below WHO-recommended fluoride limits in 30 minutes, with bovine bone chars removing 66.8% and goat bone chars 61.8% of the initial fluoride concentrations.
Legislative Pioneers: The Brave South Korean Women Spearheading Change Against Gender Discrimination, Violence, and Inequality Through Progressive Laws
Authors: Gondal Abdul , Hatta Zulkarnan
Published: September 2024

In South Korea, women have a long history of fighting against injustice. This includes brutality and discrimination based on gender. This study looks at how South Korean women led the way. The aim of this writing is to examine the critical role played by female lawmakers in South Korea as they lead the charge in passing progressive legislation to fight inequality, violence, and gender discrimination. The study explores the historical background of women's political engagement in South Korea, stressing the rise of women's rights movements and the difficulties experienced by female activists in promoting gender equality. This study proposes to search for the roles of "Legislative Pioneers" in South Korea. It does this by drawing on a thorough assessment of the literature. The paper explores the impact of South Korean women's legislative activism on gender equality through interviews, historical analysis, and official data as mixed approach by both quantitative as well as qualitative methodology. The transformative impact of women legislators in driving legislative reforms aimed at addressing gender-based violence, promoting gender equality in the workplace, and enhancing women's political representation and participation is examined in this paper through an analysis of legislative initiatives and policy outcomes. The conversation also looks at the obstacles and difficulties faced by female parliamentarians, such as institutional impediments in the political system and opposition from conservative forces. Notwithstanding these obstacles, female lawmakers persist in promoting progressive reforms, capitalizing on global connections and partnerships to propel gender parity and women's entitlements in South Korea. In summary, the study illuminates the noteworthy accomplishments of legislative trailblazers in South Korea and underscores their pivotal function in cultivating a society that is more comprehensive and just for every person.
The Impact of New Media Technology Applications on Educational Equity in Rural Areas
Authors: Xu Qian
Published: September 2024

Educational disparities between rural and urban areas have long been a significant concern, driven by factors such as limited access to educational resources, insufficient infrastructure, and a lack of qualified teachers in rural regions. In response to these challenges, new media technologies (NMT)—ranging from digital learning platforms to artificial intelligence(AI)-driven educational environments—have emerged as promising tools to bridge the educational gap. This research explores the impact of these NMT applications on educational equity in rural areas, emphasizing both the opportunities they create and the challenges they introduce. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize traditional educational methods by providing innovative approaches to knowledge transfer and expanding access to a broader range of educational resources. However, the digital divide—a disparity in access to technology and digital literacy—remains a significant obstacle. Students in rural areas often face challenges such as limited digital literacy, insufficient access to technological equipment, and unreliable Internet connections, all of which exacerbate educational inequalities. This research advocates for targeted investments in Internet infrastructure and comprehensive digital training programs to mitigate these challenges and promote educational equity. By delving into the complexities of integrating NMT into rural education, this study aims to offer valuable insights for policymakers and educators in their efforts to develop inclusive strategies that ensure equitable access to quality education for all students, regardless of their geographic location. The ultimate objective is to create an education system that empowers students in rural and disadvantaged communities to reach their full academic potential.
An Analysis of the Protagonist’s Behavior in Herzog from Yi-Fu Tuan’s Escapism
Authors: Xu Xiao
Published: September 2024

The novel Herzog by the American writer Saul Bellow has received wide attention since its publication in 1964. It centers around the protagonist Moses Herzog’s life after his second divorce, in which he is often in a state of uneasiness, going from place to place to avoid problems, writing unsent letters to express dissatisfaction, seeking comfort from others when in trouble, and losing himself in memories when frustrated. According to the Chinese-American humanistic geographer Yi-Fu Tuan’s escapism theory, the behavior is in fact escapism. What Herzog really wants to escape is society, others, and himself, and escaping from place to place or person to person, and creating material world and spiritual world, are the different ways of his escapism. And during the process of escape, with embarrassment, pains, impulse and constant self-introspection, he gradually gains strength, and evolves from negative escapism to positive escapism, temporarily achieving reconciliation with reality. There are many reasons for Herzog’s escapism, among which his American Jewish identity, the turmoil of the American society in 1960s, the decline of the intellectuals’ status and the rise of feminism at that time all play a key role. Herzog’s escapism is actually a product of his time, a process of reconstruction of relationship between male and female, and a seeking-existence journey of an intellectual with different ethnicity in American society, with positive escapism born out of negative one.
Impacts of Irrigated Water Use on Household’s Income in South Wollo Zone, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Tefera
Published: September 2024

Agriculture is the backbone of the Sub-Saharan African economy. Ethiopia's GDP is also shared by 45 from the agriculture sectors. However, it is confronted and challenged by variable rainfall and climate changes. Particularly, in South Wollo zone, agriculture is not exceptional in facing such daunting challenges and effects of variable rainfall and climate change despite there are abundant alternative irrigated water resources. River and groundwater sources have not yet been used as alternative uses for agricultural production. As a result, rural households' income couldn’t meet their minimum food and nonfood requirements. This study, thus, attempted to evaluate the impact of irrigated water use on rural household's income in South Wollo Zone, Amhara regional state, Ethiopia. In pursuit of this, it employed a descriptive type of research design and triangulated research approach that consists of both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Primary and secondary data were collected from small scale irrigated households and secondary sources. Binary logistic regression was used to determine major significant factors that affect households' irrigated water use for agricultural production. A propensity core matching model was employed to evaluate irrigated water use and agriculture on household’s income. This study result (binary logistic regression result) showed that the household’s family size, land size and willingness were significant factors that determined irrigated water use for agricultural production at 95 percent level of significance. The propensity score matching model result also shows that irrigated water use significantly created significant impact on household’s income. It is, thus, keenly important to change and improve the smallholder farmer’s land size, extension services, rural credit, technology, education level, awareness about family size, and willingness to use irrigated water sources, such as, ground and river water for agriculture agricultural production that increase their level of income.
The Oromo's Contribution to Civilization in Maintaining Societal Peace Focuses on the Guji Oromo in Southeast Oromia
Authors: Ararso Getu
Published: September 2024

Gada is the brainchild and democratic system of the Oromo people that stand for all life without any prejudice. Gada regulated political stability, peace, economic growth, social doings, cultural duties, ritual and moral responsibility by its structure, principle and function. The quality of Gada system is that it has division of power, Inclusiveness, principle of check, keep majority rules and minority right, and balance and role of peace building among the society. The general objective of this paper is to present the significance of Gada in keeping peace of society and country event focus on Guji Oromo, south eastern Oromia for all readers. Different paper were written by lots of scholars on the concept of Gada system, but it is scanty on blood feud activities for the resolution chaos and restoration of peace. Thus this paper is done in order to fill the gap. The data in this study consisted of the primary and secondary sources. The primary source largely focus on interview either physically or mobile calling based on snow ball sampling method, discussion and observation different reconciliation. Secondary sources were collected by assessing, analyzing, evaluating, crosschecking and codifying different published and unpublished materials. Finally, these data were described, expressed and articulated through qualitatively research method and based on historical and ethnographic approach.
Something about us with us: a reflection of disability studies within psychology in South Africa
Authors: Harvey Clare , Swartz Leslie
Published: September 2024

Despite the fact that disability makes up the largest minority in the world, training in psychology in South Africa today does not give viable mention to the challenges associated to living with disability. Indeed, disability studies and psychology have had an awkward relationship for various reasons, resulting in lack of engagement with disability rights issues in the field of South African psychology. The article discusses what we see as the hiddenness of disability in and from South African psychology, despite disability’s argued centrality to South Africa’s history and present. After presenting key issues in the history of disability rights both globally and locally, the article moves to discuss the tendency of silencing disabled academics and of disability studies within psychology in the country. The stories of two disabled psychologists and academics are shared to illustrate how society is controlled along biopolitical lines, namely that of compulsory able-bodiedness, resulting in the continued silencing of disabled psychology academics; and the continued binary of ‘us vs them’, the able-bodied versus disabled, remains. Arguably, focusing on disability oppression and exclusion provides a way into understanding other forms of exclusion and oppression, including racial and gender oppression. We need to continue to integrate psychology and disability studies by celebrating disabled psychologists and encouraging psychological reflections on disabled experiences. Psychology cannot continue to allow disabled people to be silenced.
An energy analysis methodology for residential heat pump retrofits
Authors: Day Tony , Morris Katherine , Chaer Issa , Gillich Aaron
Published: September 2024

The government has targets to upscale domestic heat pump retrofit as part of the strategy to decarbonise heat. There are significant barriers to uptake including installation cost together with a lack of expertise in predicting and reporting energy and carbon performance. As a result, end user confidence in heat pumps can be low. This paper presents analysis of two monitored domestic properties using high resolution data. The aim is to develop reliable prediction and in-use diagnostic tools to improve transparency and reliability of heat pump performance. This paper focuses on a method drawn from theory as set out in CIBSE TM41, and shows how real building heat loss coefficients can be determined from regression analysis over different time frame resolutions.

Practical application

This research aims to provide residential heat pump retrofit providers with cost effective methods for assessing the suitability of dwellings to accept heat pump retrofit solutions, and to extend these techniques for the effective monitoring and performance evaluation of heat pumps post installation.
Ineffectiveness of 6,2′,4′-trimethoxyflavone in mitigating cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury after post-reperfusion administration in rats
Authors: Woo Chul-Woong , Choi Monica Young , Heo Hwon , Chae Yeon Ji , Sung Yu Sub , Choi Yoonseok , Woo Dong Cheol
Published: September 2024

Background

Pharmacological inhibition of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activation after ischemia alleviates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury.

Purpose

To investigate whether AhR antagonist administration after reperfusion was also effective in attenuating cerebral IR injury.

Material and Methods

A total of 24 Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into the sham-operated group (no IR), control group (IR), and 6,2′,4′-trimethoxyflavone (TMF) group (IR + TMF administration), with 10 rats assigned to each group. Cerebral IR injury was induced by 60 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion. TMF (5 mg/kg) was used as the AhR antagonist and was administered intraperitoneally immediately after reperfusion. Cerebral IR injury was observed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and neurobehavioral assessments at baseline, immediately after ischemia, and at 3 days after ischemia.

Results

On MRI, the TMF group showed no significant differences in relative apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), T2, and fractional anisotropy (FA) values; midline shift value; and infarct volume. In terms of neurobehavioral function, factors such as grip strength, contralateral forelimb use, time to touch, and time to remove adhesive tape from the forepaw, were also not significantly different between the control and TMF groups.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that AhR treatment after reperfusion had no noticeable effect on reducing cerebral IR injury in rats.
Is tumour sequencing effective for the identification of germline BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant carriers?
Authors: Azzollini Jacopo , Capone Iolanda , Duca Matteo , Vingiani Andrea , Piccolo Alberta , Agnelli Luca , Tamborini Elena , Perrone Federica , Peissel Bernard , Lorenzini Daniele , Damian Silvia , Vernieri Claudio , Bianchi Giulia Valeria , Mantiero Mara , Ducceschi Monika , Polignano Maggie , Niger Monica , Nichetti Federico , Proto Claudia , Brambilla Marta , Colombo Elena , Stellato Marco , Conca Elena , Busico Adele , Manoukian Siranoush
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Tumour BRCA1/2 sequencing has progressively increased along with the expanding indications for poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors. In our study, we investigated the feasibility and outcomes of a workflow for the identification of germline carriers based on tumour sequencing results.

Methods:

Between April 2020 and December 2022, BRCA1/2 tumour testing results from 2020 patients were reviewed. Analysed tumours included: 323 ovarian, 104 breast, 314 pancreas-biliary, 87 prostate, 374 gastrointestinal, 309 lung, and 509 less common histologies. Testing was performed through small (only BRCA1/2, 16%) or comprehensive (>50 genes) next-generation sequencing panels (84%). Patients with pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants were referred for genetic counselling and germline testing.

Results:

Tumour BRCA1/2 pathogenic variants were identified in 145 patients (7%). The pathogenic variant frequency ranged between 23% (75/323 ovarian) and 3.5% (11/314 pancreas-biliary). The highest frequency was observed in high-grade ovarian carcinomas (27%, 64/235). By 30 June 2023, 79 out of 145 patients (54%) underwent subsequent genetic counselling and germline testing. In these patients, mostly affected with ovarian carcinoma (67%, 53/79), 48 were confirmed germline pathogenic variants (61%).

Conclusions:

In our tumour-to-germline testing approach, we observed the BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant frequency reported in other large unselected ovarian cancer cohorts, thus confirming its effectiveness in identifying putative germline carriers irrespective of eligibility for germline testing. As the range of tumours subjected to genetic testing broadens, this approach is expected to also be effective in other tumour settings for enhancing the identification of carriers, reducing the burden on genetic services, and avoiding unnecessary concerns related to germline testing.
Influences of Specialist Palliative Care Team Input, Advance Care Planning, Non-Invasive Ventilation and Gastrostomy Status on Unscheduled Hospital Admissions and Place of Death for People with Motor Neuron Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Quail Nathaniel Patrick Andrew , Leighton Danielle Jane , Newton Judith , Davidson Scott , Kelly Laura , McKeown Alistair , Chandran Siddharthan , Pal Suvankar , Gorrie George Henry
Published: September 2024

Objective: Motor neuron disease is a rapidly progressing neurological condition. People with life-limiting conditions generally prefer to die at home and avoid hospital admissions, with Specialist Palliative Care Team involvement often pivotal. Our aim was to investigate the role of advance care planning, Specialist Palliative Care Team input and other relevant variables on place of death and unscheduled hospital admissions in a Scottish population of people with motor neuron disease. Methods: National CARE-MND audit data, primary and secondary care data, and local Palliative Care records were interrogated. Chi-square, point-biserial correlation and binary logistic regression analysed associations (p < 0.05 statistically significant). Participants (188) were deceased, having a verified motor neuron disease diagnosis between 2015–2017, diagnosis occurring ≥28 days before death. Results: Advance care planning and Specialist Palliative Care Team input of ≥28 days were associated with increased odds of dying outside hospital (BLR:OR 3.937, CI 1.558-9.948, p = 0.004 and OR 2.657, CI 1.135-6.222, p = 0.024 respectively). Non-invasive ventilation decreased the odds of dying outside hospital (BLR:OR 0.311, CI 0.124-0.781, p = 0.013). Having a gastrostomy increased odds of ≥1 admissions in the last year of life (BLR:OR 5.142, CI 1.715-15.417, p = 0.003). Statistical significance was retained with removal of gastrostomy-related complications. Conclusion: Early Specialist Palliative Care input and advance care planning may increase the likelihood of death outside of hospital for persons with motor neuron disease. Further research is warranted into barriers of facilitating death outside of hospital with home non-invasive ventilation use and the association between gastrostomy status and unscheduled admissions.
Experimental study on the mechanical properties of red sandstone with fractures under different loading rates
Authors: Wang Hui , Xu Zhichao , Huai Hongyuan , Yin Yunteng , Zeng Jiacong , Du Zhihao , Zhou Hang
Published: September 2024

In order to study the effects of crack inclination angle and loading rate on rock mechanical properties, creep characteristics, and failure characteristics. Taking homogeneous red sandstone with different fracture angles as the research object, uniaxial compression tests and uniaxial compression creep tests were conducted at different loading rates. The results showed that under the same fracture angle, the loading rate was positively correlated with the peak strength, elastic modulus, instantaneous strain, creep strain, and steady-state creep rate of the sample, while negatively correlated with the peak strain. At the same loading rate, the mechanical properties and creep properties of the sample were controlled by the crack inclination angle α. With the increase of α, the peak strength, peak strain, instantaneous strain, creep strain and steady-state creep rate decreased first and then increased, and the elastic modulus increased. On the basis of rock creep testing, it is also important to establish a creep model that conforms to the actual test situation for studying rock creep characteristics. However, many models currently used cannot accurately describe the three stages of rock creep, especially the accelerated creep stage. Therefore, based on Burgers elements, this paper introduces plastic damage bodies based on damage rates and software components based on fractional calculus, A new creep model was obtained and its rationality was verified through experimental results. The results showed that the fit between the model and experimental data was above 0.97, indicating that the model can better describe the three stages of rock creep, especially reflecting the non-linear characteristics of the accelerated creep stage.
Examining the Link Between Information Processing and Preventive Behavior in the Risk Information-Seeking and Processing (RISP) Model: A Panel Study
Authors: Fung Timothy K. F. , Leung Ho Man , Lai Po Yan , Griffin Robert J.
Published: September 2024

The Risk Information-Seeking and Processing (RISP) model postulates that individuals who process risk information systematically are likely to hold stronger attitudes toward preventive behavior than those who process information heuristically. Therefore, individuals’ attitudes toward risk preventive behavior developed or changed through systematic processing are likely to be more persistent over time than those whose attitudes are based on heuristic processing. To examine this proposition, we conducted to a two-wave panel study in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings supported the proposition that processing influenced attitude strength, which influenced individuals’ attitude toward behavior a year later. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
Big Tent Talk: The Incalculable
Authors: Lather Patti
Published: September 2024

This article memorializes Norman Denzin on the occasion of the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry (ICQI) in May 2024. Denzin’s work is overviewed in the context of its relationship to the author’s and the field at large with a focus on the founding and sustaining efforts of his scholarship, field-defining editorial contributions and ICQI.
Judicial self fashioning: Rhetorical performance in Supreme Court opinions
Authors: Thalken Rosamond Elizabeth , Mimno David , Wilkens Matthew
Published: September 2024

Justices on the United States Supreme Court use rhetorical strategies to maintain institutional legitimacy. In the court opinion, a strategy called the monologic voice presents a flattering depiction of the Court. The monologic voice occurs through two tones, the individualistic and collective, which respectively maintain the Justices’ legitimacy through critique and the Court’s legitimacy through unification. We train large language models to identify these rhetorical features in 15,291 modern Supreme Court opinions, issued between 1946 and 2022. While the fraction of collective and individualistic tones has been relatively consistent between 1946 and 2022, the Rehnquist Court used the collective tone at a higher rate than any other Court. In recent terms, 2021 and 2022, we find suggestions of another rhetorical shift, as all Associate Justices of the Roberts Court, excluding Chief Justice Roberts, used the individualistic tone at a historically high rate.
Effects of visual feedback balance system combined with weight loss training system on balance and walking ability in the early rehabilitation stage of stroke: a randomized controlled exploratory study
Authors: Lu Wei , Wen Mingming , Li Yinxia , Liu Feng , Li Yongping , Zhang Hengchun , Zhang Min
Published: September 2024

Background:

Previous studies have suggested that the Pro-Kin visual feedback balance system can promote the recovery of balance function in stroke patients.

Objectives:

However, this system has not been used effectively in the early stages of stroke rehabilitation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Pro-Kin system combined with weight loss system for the early recovery of balance and walking ability following a stroke.

Methods:

A total of 62 patients who underwent radiological diagnosis of stroke were randomly divided into two groups: a control group ( n = 31) and a treatment group ( n = 31). Both groups received conventional balance training. The treatment group also received training on the Pro-Kin system in conjunction with a weight loss system. Balance was measured using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Timed ‘Up & Go’ (TUG) test and Pro-Kin system. Walking ability was assessed using the Functional Ambulation Classification (FAC). The tests were performed before the start of treatment and on the 4th week following the training. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups before training.

Results:

After 4 weeks of training in both groups, there were significant improvements in balance and walking ability. BBS values and FAC were significantly higher ( p < 0.01), TUG times, ellipse area and motion trajectory length were significantly reduced ( p < 0.01, p < 0.05) after training. The treatment group outperformed the control group ( p < 0.05). In addition, there was a positive correlation between balance function and walking ability ( p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

The Pro-Kin system combined with weight loss system is a viable method that promotes early reconstruction of balance and walking ability following a stroke.

Trial registration:

Clinical trial number ChiCTR1900026370. https://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojEN.html?proj=43736
Complex ovarian masses: Diagnostic processes and outcomes in a clinical case series of benign tumors
Authors: Yared Georges , Barakat Hassan , Mohsen Zahra , Diab Kawsar , al Hassan Jihad , El Hajjar Charlotte , El Kazwini Mohammad El Jawad , Nakib Hamza , Massaad Christopher , Ghazal Kariman
Published: September 2024

This case series explores the diagnostic and management complexities of non-malignant ovarian masses, illustrated through three distinct cases: struma ovarii, mature teratoma, and ovarian mass with peritoneal splenosis. The first case details a struma ovarii initially misinterpreted as a potential malignancy due to its complex imaging features, leading to diagnostic uncertainty. The second case involves a mature teratoma, which, despite typical imaging characteristics, presented significant symptoms that necessitated careful clinical management. The third case highlights an ovarian mass with peritoneal splenosis, a condition often mistaken for metastatic disease, underscoring the need for differential diagnosis, particularly in patients with a history of splenic trauma or surgery. These cases emphasize the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach that integrates detailed imaging, surgical findings, and histopathological examination to accurately distinguish between benign and malignant ovarian masses and inform appropriate management strategies.
Impact of Managerial Ability on the Quality of Accounting Information Disclosure: Empirical Evidence From China
Authors: Lin BingHong , Li BingXiang
Published: September 2024

Given the frequent occurrence of accounting fraud and the increasing importance of managerial ability, in order to promote the disclosure of high-quality accounting information by listed companies and enhance the confidence of investors and the public, taking A-share listed companies in the ShenZhen Stock Exchange of China as research samples from 2015 to 2022, we analyze the impact of managerial ability on accounting information disclosure quality (AIDQ) in terms of “governance effect” and “reputation effect,” and explore the role played by internal control effectiveness and equity structure characteristics. The research results show that the stronger the managerial ability, the higher AIDQ. Internal control effectiveness partially mediates the relationship between managerial ability and AIDQ. Further research finds that managerial ability promotes AIDQ more significantly in non-state-owned firms, firms with controlling shareholders’ equity pledges, and firms with high equity concentration. This study reveals the micro-influence path of managerial ability in promoting accounting disclosure and provides empirical evidence for improving AIDQ in listed companies.
Collective Action as a Prerequisite for Economic and Social Upgrading in Agricultural Production Networks
Authors: Karatepe Ismail Doga , Scherrer Christoph
Published: September 2024

This article highlights the importance of collective action and the role of the state in upgrading the social and economic conditions of farmworkers and smallholders. It is argued that economic upgrading does not automatically translate into social upgrading for workers and small producers and explores the conditions conducive to social upgrading. The asymmetric power relations among actors in the agricultural value chain erect barriers that hinder social upgrading of smallholders and farmworkers. Collective actions of those who are currently underprivileged in the agricultural value chains and the efforts of states can dismantle these barriers. Drawing on theories relating to power resources and the state, the article documents three successful examples from Pakistan and Brazil where collective action and state involvement have partially dismantled barriers against upgrading.
Detection of sedentary time and bouts using consumer-grade wrist-worn devices: a hidden semi-Markov model
Authors: Salim Agus , Brakenridge Christian J. , Lekamlage Dulari Hakamuwa , Howden Erin , Grigg Ruth , Dillon Hayley T. , Bondell Howard D. , Simpson Julie A. , Healy Genevieve N. , Owen Neville , Dunstan David W. , Winkler Elisabeth A. H.
Published: September 2024

Background

Wrist-worn data from commercially available devices has potential to characterize sedentary time for research and for clinical and public health applications. We propose a model that utilizes heart rate in addition to step count data to estimate the proportion of time spent being sedentary and the usual length of sedentary bouts.

Methods

We developed and trained two Hidden semi-Markov models, STEPHEN (STEP and Heart ENcoder) and STEPCODE (STEP enCODEr; a steps-only based model) using consumer-grade Fitbit device data from participants under free living conditions, and validated model performance using two external datasets. We used the median absolute percentage error (MDAPE) to measure the accuracy of the proposed models against research-grade activPAL device data as the referent. Bland-Altman plots summarized the individual-level agreement with activPAL.

Results

In OPTIMISE cohort, STEPHEN’s estimates of the proportion of time spent sedentary had significantly (p < 0.001) better accuracy (MDAPE [IQR] = 0.15 [0.06–0.25] vs. 0.23 [0.13–0.53)]) and agreement (Bias Mean [SD]=-0.03[0.11] vs. 0.14 [0.11]) than the proprietary software, estimated the usual sedentary bout duration more accurately (MDAPE[IQR] = 0.11[0.06–0.26] vs. 0.42[0.32–0.48]), and had better agreement (Bias Mean [SD] = 3.91[5.67] minutes vs. -11.93[5.07] minutes). With the ALLO-Active dataset, STEPHEN and STEPCODE did not improve the estimation of proportion of time spent sedentary, but STEPHEN estimated usual sedentary bout duration more accurately than the proprietary software (MDAPE[IQR] = 0.19[0.03–0.25] vs. 0.36[0.15–0.48]) and had smaller bias (Bias Mean[SD] = 0.70[8.89] minutes vs. -11.35[9.17] minutes).

Conclusions

STEPHEN can characterize the proportion of time spent being sedentary and usual sedentary bout length. The methodology is available as an open access R package available from https://github.com/limfuxing/stephen/. The package includes trained models, but users have the flexibility to train their own models.
The impact of allocation bias on test decisions in clinical trials with multiple endpoints using multiple testing strategies
Authors: Schoenen Stefanie , Heussen Nicole , Verbeeck Johan , Hilgers Ralf-Dieter
Published: September 2024

Background

Considering multiple endpoints in clinical trials provide a more comprehensive understanding of treatment effects and may lead to increased power or reduced sample size, which may be beneficial in rare diseases. Besides the small sample sizes, allocation bias is an issue that affects the validity of these trials. We investigate the impact of allocation bias on testing decisions in clinical trials with multiple endpoints and offer a tool for selecting an appropriate randomization procedure (RP).

Methods

We derive a model for quantifying the effect of allocation bias depending on the RP in the case of two-arm parallel group trials with continuous multiple endpoints. We focus on two approaches to analyze multiple endpoints, either the Šidák procedure to show efficacy in at least one endpoint and the all-or-none procedure to show efficacy in all endpoints.

Results

To evaluate the impact of allocation bias on the test decision we propose a biasing policy for multiple endpoints. The impact of allocation on the test decision is measured by the family-wise error rate of the ﻿Šidák procedure and the type I error rate of the all-or-none procedure. Using the biasing policy we derive formulas to calculate these error rates. In simulations we show that, for the ﻿Šidák procedure as well as for the all-or-none procedure, allocation bias leads to inflation of the mean family-wise error and mean type I error, respectively. The strength of this inflation is affected by the choice of the RP.

Conclusion

Allocation bias should be considered during the design phase of a trial to increase validity. The developed methodology is useful for selecting an appropriate RP for a clinical trial with multiple endpoints to minimize allocation bias effects.
Lambda light chain - restricted non - crystalline proximal tubulopathy with cast nephropathy in multiple myeloma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Lan Mingfu , Guo Yaohui , Wang Caiyun , Wang Xiaoqin , Li Jing , Wang Yanxia
Published: September 2024

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) often causes renal tubular damage, such as the light chain cast nephropathy (LCCN) and the light chain proximal tubulopathy (LCPT). The excessive light chains deposited in the proximal and distal tubules usually manifest with different characteristics, leading to a rare coexistence of the two pathological conditions. Here we report a unique case of a patient with multiple myeloma (MM) who presented with acute kidney injury (AKI) due to dual conditions of λ light chain-restricted non-crystalline LCPT and LCCN. This report reviews the clinical presentation and histological findings, comparing them with previously published cases.

Case presentation

A 49-year-old male patient was admitted with a chief complaint of “fatigue, loss of appetite for 40 days and elevated blood creatinine for 10 days.” In serum and urine, the λ light chain level and the ratio of κ to λ free light chain were 1235 mg/dl and 93.25 mg/dl, 0.0022 and 0.0316, respectively. Additionally, serum protein electrophoresis showed an M-spike with monoclonal IgD-λ. Bone marrow puncture revealed 30.5% primitive naive plasma cells, indicative of IgD-λ MM. Light microscopy of kidney biopsy specimen showed periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-negative cytoplasm in some proximal tubules and PAS-negative casts with a rigid appearance in some distal tubule lumens. On immunofluorescence, these proximal tubular epithelial cells cytoplasm and casts stained exclusively with λ-light chains. Electron microscopy did not reveal any crystalline inclusions. Given the clinical and bone marrow puncture findings, the overall pathological presentation was LCPT with LCCN secondary to IgD-λ MM. After chemotherapy and dialysis, the patient’s condition was improved and he was tracked in follow-ups.

Conclusion

In some tubular renal injuries caused by MM, the morphological changes are subtle and often overlooked. In this paper, we present a rare case of LCPT with LCCN showing λ restriction in patient with MM. Through the clinicopathological analysis of patients, the understanding of the disease can be deepened and the diagnosis rate improved.
Assessment of care provision integration in a community-based mental health system: balanced care model implementation in Andalusia (Spain)
Authors: Diaz-Milanes Diego , Almeda Nerea , Rodero-Cosano Maria Luisa , Salinas-Perez Jose A. , Garcia-Alonso Carlos R.
Published: September 2024

Background

Andalusia is the second largest region in Spain, and it has developed a comprehensive mental health (MH) plan that encourages the consolidation of the balanced care model. However, its geographical and socioeconomic disparity is a great challenge for a community-based MH system. Both the assessment of the implementation of the MH plan and the development of new tools to support decision-making can be considered critical.

Objectives

The present study aims (i) to assess how the integration of different types of MH care may influence system performance and (ii) to check the performance evolution of the integration process geographically regarding the small MH areas of Andalusia.

Methods

The performance of the Andalusian MH system was assessed by combining Monte Carlo simulation, fuzzy inference and data envelopment analysis. The relative technical efficiency was the main performance indicator.

Results

A correct integration of appropriate types of MH care, according to population needs, increases the performance of the Andalusian MH system both from global and regional perspectives. The spatial representation (based on small MH areas) of the results highlights how the performance depends on specific geographical characteristics. By analyzing the identified spatial clusters, defined by different management patterns depending on user and socioeconomic characteristics, benchmark areas and areas for improvement can be studied to design evidence-informed policies and interventions.

Conclusions

A global analysis of MH system performance was carried out, including both the successive integration of different types of care and its spatial evolution. Although an appropriate integration of different types of MH care has a positive effect on the Andalusian MH system, this process has different profiles depending on specific geographically based user and socioeconomic characteristics. The balanced care model can be considered the paradigm for assessing the performance of a large and populated territory such as Andalusia, which has a community-based MH system. This methodological approach (performance assessment and spatial analysis) may be used as a guide for developing future evidence-informed policies and managerial interventions.