bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Update on ketosis in dairy cattle with major emphasis on subclinical ketosis and abdominal adiposity
Authors: Melendez Pedro , Serrano Manuel Vizcaino
Published: August 2024

The metabolic changes that occur during the early post‐partum period in dairy cows can indeed lead to an imbalance in energy utilization, resulting in the production of excessive ketone bodies. This can have detrimental effects on the cow's health and milk production, leading to economic losses for dairy producers. The release of non‐esterified fatty acids into the blood due to increased lipolysis is a key factor in the development of ketosis. Abdominal adiposity is a key factor on these outcomes in modern dairy cows. The redirection of energy and glucose towards lactose synthesis and milk yield leaves a deficit of gluconeogenic precursors, leading to the conversion of acetyl‐CoA into ketone bodies instead of entering the Krebs cycle. These ketone bodies, including acetone, acetoacetate and β‐hydroxybutyrate, accumulate in the blood and can be detected in various bodily fluids, such as urine, blood and milk, allowing for diagnostic testing. Prevention is indeed crucial in managing ketosis in dairy cattle. Supplementation of propylene glycol in the diet or the use of monensin, either in the diet or in the form of a slow‐release bolus, can help prevent the occurrence of ketosis. However, avoiding high body condition (subcutaneous fat) and excessive abdominal adiposity during the dry period and parturition plus an adequate cow comfort are fundamental tasks to avoid ketosis and related disorders. These interventions aim to provide additional energy sources or enhance the cow's ability to utilize energy efficiently, thus reducing the reliance on excessive lipolysis and ketone body production.
Feline gastrointestinal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia associated with Candida albicans
Authors: Almendros Angel , Giuliano Antonio , Tse May , Barrs Vanessa Rosemary
Published: August 2024

Feline gastrointestinal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia (FGESF) is a rare and poorly understood disease characterised by the infiltration of eosinophils and the development of fibrous tissue within the gastrointestinal tract of cats. A 2‐year‐old female neutered Ragdoll was presented for signs consistent with extrahepatic biliary tract obstruction (EHBO), including jaundice, hyporexia and lethargy. Marked progressive hyperbilirubinemia and mild anaemia were also present. Abdominal ultrasonography suggested a duodenal mass and pancreatitis as the cause of EHBO. Cytopathological results from fine needle aspirates detected mast cells and eosinophils in the duodenal mass and eosinophils in the spleen and the liver, suggestive of a possible mast cell tumour. A cholecystojejunostomy and a duodenotomy were performed to divert the biliary outflow and obtain biopsy samples, respectively. Eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia in the duodenal mass and fungal elements in an abdominal lymph node were reported on histopathological examination. A pan‐fungal PCR targeting ITS2 performed on DNA extracted from an abdominal lymph node detected Candida albicans. This report adds to the growing body of evidence that FGESF can occur in association with fungal infections.
Digitization of Clinical Pathways in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Marino Denis , Harutyunyan Anna , Sargsyan Karine
Published: August 2024

The digital revolution has transformed many industries, and healthcare is no exception. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), digitization of clinical processes can improve healthcare delivery, patient outcomes, and healthcare system efficiencies. This chapter examines the current state of digitization of clinical pathways in LMICs and highlights the challenges and opportunities in accordance with its implementation. It also examines the impact of digital technologies on various aspects of clinical pathways, such as diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and follow-up. The potential benefits and risks of digitization are discussed, including data security, privacy, and fairness issues. Based on a review of the relevant literature, the chapter aims to provide an insight into the potential of digitization to revolutionize healthcare in LMICs.
The connection between nucleon energy correlators and fracture functions
Authors: Chen Kai-Bao , Ma Jian-Ping , Tong Xuan-Bo
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We establish a sum rule that connects fracture functions to nucleon energy-energy correlators (NEECs) in a one-to-one correspondence. Using this sum rule, we study the energy pattern in the target fragmentation region of deep inelastic scatterings. Through investigations up to twist-3, we express all eighteen energy-pattern structure functions in terms of associated NEECs, elucidating various azimuthal and spin asymmetries critical for nucleon tomography. Additionally, we investigate the perturbative matching of the twist-2 quark NEECs. We demonstrate that the Sivers-type and worm-gear-type quark NEECs match onto twist-3 multi-parton distributions. Our work provides a framework for examining energy-weighted observables through hadron production processes in the target fragmentation region, offering new insights into nucleon tomography.
Full QCD with milder topological freezing
Authors: Bonanno Claudio , Clemente Giuseppe , D’Elia Massimo , Maio Lorenzo , Parente Luca
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We simulate Nf = 2 + 1 QCD at the physical point combining open and periodic boundary conditions in a parallel tempering framework, following the original proposal by M. Hasenbusch for 2d CPN−1 models, which has been recently implemented and widely employed in 4d SU(N) pure Yang-Mills theories too. We show that using this algorithm it is possible to achieve a sizable reduction of the auto-correlation time of the topological charge in dynamical fermions simulations both at zero and finite temperature, allowing to avoid topology freezing down to lattice spacings as fine as a ∼ 0.02 fm. Therefore, this implementation of the Parallel Tempering on Boundary Conditions algorithm has the potential to substantially push forward the investigation of the QCD vacuum properties by means of lattice simulations.
Holographic entropy inequalities and multipartite entanglement
Authors: Hernández-Cuenca Sergio , Hubeny Veronika E. , Jia Hewei Frederic
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study holographic entropy inequalities and their structural properties by making use of a judicious grouping of terms into certain multipartite information quantities. This allows us to recast cumbersome entropic expressions into much simpler ones which share interestingly rigid structures. By performing a systematic search over some of these structures, we are able to discover more than 1800 novel entropy inequalities for six parties, thereby demonstrating that these recastings provide a fruitful generating technique for uncovering new holographic entropy inequalities. In attempting to interpret the corresponding sign-definite quantities as correlation measures, we also obtain a no-go result: the superbalance property of holographic entropy inequalities turns out to preclude them from being monotonic under partial tracing. In the process, we also comment on the geometrical significance of multipartite information quantities and present various structural relations amongst them.
Local and global mechanical properties of orbital friction stir welding on API X65 PSL2 steel / Inconel 625 clad pipes
Authors: Volff Amavisca Carla , Vieira Braga Lemos Guilherme , Dornelles Ramos Fabiano , Bergmann Luciano , Reguly Afonso , Klusemann Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Orbital friction stir welding (FSW) is a promising approach to joining clad pipes. In this work, the influence of individual process parameters on the material flow even as, mechanical properties in orbital friction stir welded clad pipes is investigated. Due to the local heterogeneous microstructures within the weld, joints were evaluated by optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), microhardness, and digital image correlation (DIC). A microhardness increase was observed, with a maximum of 380 HV0.5 within the Inconel 625 and 265 HV0.5 within the X65 steel stir zones. Sound joints had an average ultimate tensile strength (UTS) exceeding up to 13% of the calculated theoretical tensile strength, which is obtained considering the minimum tensile strength of both materials. Additionally, failure occurred in the base material during the tensile testing, where the local strain in the stir zones of the X65 steel and Inconel 625 were only 3.3% and 10%, respectively. In summary, this investigation shows friction stir welded joints of API X65 steel and Inconel 625 clad pipes with high mechanical properties.
Sustainable agriculture: leveraging microorganisms for a circular economy
Authors: Glockow Till , Kaster Anne-Kristin , Rabe Kersten S. , Niemeyer Christof M.
Published: August 2024

Microorganisms serve as linchpins in agricultural systems. Classic examples include microbial composting for nutrient recovery, using microorganisms in biogas technology for agricultural waste utilization, and employing biofilters to reduce emissions from stables or improve water quality in aquaculture. This mini-review highlights the importance of microbiome analysis in understanding microbial diversity, dynamics, and functions, fostering innovations for a more sustainable agriculture. In this regard, customized microorganisms for soil improvement, replacements for harmful agrochemicals or antibiotics in animal husbandry, and (probiotic) additives in animal nutrition are already in or even beyond the testing phase for a large-scale conventional agriculture. Additionally, as climate change reduces arable land, new strategies based on closed-loop systems and controlled environment agriculture, emphasizing microbial techniques, are being developed for regional food production. These strategies aim to secure the future food supply and pave the way for a sustainable, resilient, and circular agricultural economy.

Key points

• Microbial strategies facilitate the integration of multiple trophic levels, essential for cycling carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and micronutrients.

• Exploring microorganisms in integrated biological systems is essential for developing practical agricultural solutions.

• Technological progress makes sustainable closed-entity re-circulation systems possible, securing resilient future food production.

Graphical Abstract

Microorganisms connect plant and animal agriculture through complex cycles involving carbon, nitrogen, phosphate, and additional micronutrients. This mini-review outlines the current and potential future roles of microorganisms in agroindustry.
Der Grundrechtsgehalt der Patientenrechte
Authors: Gutmann Thomas
Published: August 2024

Das Recht des Behandlungsvertrags (§§630a–630h BGB) ist auf besonders intensive Weise durch die Horizontalwirkung der Grundrechte, namentlich des Selbstbestimmungsrechts des Patienten, geprägt. Alle ‘einfachrechtlichen’ Rechtsverhältnisse des Behandlungsvertrags sind im Licht der Grundrechtspositionen der Beteiligten zu interpretieren. Eine Vielzahl dogmatischer Einzelfragen wird auf der Grundrechtsebene vorentschieden. Einige der kommenden Entwicklungen sind bereits sichtbar. Mit der prinzipienorientierten Konstitutionalisierung der Materie sind veränderte Erwartungen an juristische Begründungen verbunden.
The use of CNNs in VR/AR/MR/XR: a systematic literature review
Authors: Cortes David , Bermejo Belen , Juiz Carlos
Published: August 2024

This study offers a systematic literature review on the application of Convolutional Neural Networks in Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality, and Extended Reality technologies. We categorise these applications into three primary classifications: interaction, where the networks amplify user engagements with virtual and augmented settings; creation, showcasing the networks’ ability to assist in producing high-quality visual representations; and execution, emphasising the optimisation and adaptability of apps across diverse devices and situations. This research serves as a comprehensive guide for academics, researchers, and professionals in immersive technologies, offering profound insights into the cross-disciplinary realm of network applications in these realities. Additionally, we underscore the notable contributions concerning these realities and their intersection with neural networks.
Deep learning for efficient reconstruction of highly accelerated 3D FLAIR MRI in neurological deficits
Authors: Liebrand Luka C. , Karkalousos Dimitrios , Poirion Émilie , Emmer Bart J. , Roosendaal Stefan D. , Marquering Henk A. , Majoie Charles B. L. M. , Savatovsky Julien , Caan Matthan W. A.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To compare compressed sensing (CS) and the Cascades of Independently Recurrent Inference Machines (CIRIM) with respect to image quality and reconstruction times when 12-fold accelerated scans of patients with neurological deficits are reconstructed.

Materials and Methods

Twelve-fold accelerated 3D T2-FLAIR images were obtained from a cohort of 62 patients with neurological deficits on 3 T MRI. Images were reconstructed offline via CS and the CIRIM. Image quality was assessed in a blinded and randomized manner by two experienced interventional neuroradiologists and one experienced pediatric neuroradiologist on imaging artifacts, perceived spatial resolution (sharpness), anatomic conspicuity, diagnostic confidence, and contrast. The methods were also compared in terms of self-referenced quality metrics, image resolution, patient groups and reconstruction time. In ten scans, the contrast ratio (CR) was determined between lesions and white matter. The effect of acceleration factor was assessed in a publicly available fully sampled dataset, since ground truth data are not available in prospectively accelerated clinical scans. Specifically, 451 FLAIR scans, including scans with white matter lesions, were adopted from the FastMRI database to evaluate structural similarity (SSIM) and the CR of lesions and white matter on ranging acceleration factors from four-fold up to 12-fold.

Results

Interventional neuroradiologists significantly preferred the CIRIM for imaging artifacts, anatomic conspicuity, and contrast. One rater significantly preferred the CIRIM in terms of sharpness and diagnostic confidence. The pediatric neuroradiologist preferred CS for imaging artifacts and sharpness. Compared to CS, the CIRIM reconstructions significantly improved in terms of imaging artifacts and anatomic conspicuity (p < 0.01) for higher resolution scans while yielding a 28% higher SNR (p = 0.001) and a 5.8% lower CR (p = 0.04). There were no differences between patient groups. Additionally, CIRIM was five times faster than CS was. An increasing acceleration factor did not lead to changes in CR (p = 0.92), but led to lower SSIM (p = 0.002).

Discussion

Patients with neurological deficits can undergo MRI at a range of moderate to high acceleration. DL reconstruction outperforms CS in terms of image resolution, efficient denoising with a modest reduction in contrast and reduced reconstruction times.
Development of an Injectable Hydrogel for Histotripsy Ablation Toward Future Glioblastoma Therapy Applications
Authors: Khan Zerin Mahzabin , Zhang Junru , Gannon Jessica , Johnson Blake N. , Verbridge Scott S. , Vlaisavljevich Eli
Published: August 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and malignant type of primary brain tumor. Even after surgery and chemoradiotherapy, residual GBM cells can infiltrate the healthy brain parenchyma to form secondary tumors. To mitigate GBM recurrence, we recently developed an injectable hydrogel that can be crosslinked in the resection cavity to attract, collect, and ablate residual GBM cells. We previously optimized a thiol-Michael addition hydrogel for physical, chemical, and biological compatibility with the GBM microenvironment and demonstrated CXCL12-mediated chemotaxis can attract and entrap GBM cells into this hydrogel. In this study, we synthesize hydrogels under conditions mimicking GBM resection cavities and assess feasibility of histotripsy to ablate hydrogel-encapsulated cells. The results showed the hydrogel synthesis was bio-orthogonal, not shear-thinning, and can be scaled up for injection into GBM resection mimics invitro. Experiments also demonstrated ultrasound imaging can distinguish the synthetic hydrogel from healthy porcine brain tissue. Finally, a 500 kHz transducer applied focused ultrasound treatment to the synthetic hydrogels, with results demonstrating precise histotripsy bubble clouds could be sustained in order to uniformly ablate red blood cells encapsulated by the hydrogel for homogeneous, mechanical fractionation of the entrapped cells. Overall, this hydrogel is a promising platform for biomaterials-based GBM treatment.
Imposed Mobility, Legal Ambiguity, Institutionalized Abandonment: Exploring the Sex Work Crimscape in Contemporary Poland
Authors: Dziuban Agata
Published: August 2024

When conceptually framed as a crimscape, the contemporary landscape of sex work criminalization can be understood as a complex array of policies relating to sex work, migration, trafficking, fiscality, and labor. Rather than working in isolation, these measures intertwine to shape the working conditions and lived realities of migrant sex workers. Through ethnographic fieldwork and interviews with Ukrainian sex workers in Poland, I demonstrate how this policy assemblage contributes to the vulnerabilization and precarization of migrant sex workers, marking their everyday existence with uncertainty and precarity, surveillance and policing, and the withholding of state protections, recognition, and rights. Analyzing the Polish sex work crimscape as a mode of sex work governance reveals how this policy assemblage translates into three interconnected conditions for migrant sex workers: imposed mobility, legal ambiguity, and institutionalized abandonment.
A critical exploration of first in family student persistence and the enactment of sisu
Authors: Delahunty Janine , O’Shea Sarah
Published: August 2024

This paper extends understandings of persistence by drawing on the innovative framing of ‘sisu’. Sisu is a recently theorised Finnish concept and, whilst not having a direct English translation, articulates an inner fortitude which is activated in adversity. To better understand persistence, we analysed interview and survey data collected in Australia from 376 students who were first in family (FiF) at university. Successful progression through a degree is largely regarded as moving forward in a linear fashion, with few gaps or disjuncture enroute. However, as this was contrary to the experiences of our participants, sisu provided a framework to challenge the construction of persisting to completion as linear and one-dimensional and move us beyond the hyper-individualism that characterises higher education systems. Sisu is regarded as a rich personal resource which is embedded in the collective community, where efforts to keep moving forward and remain resolute in adversity are both individual and communal. Our interpretations provide insight into the complex and subjective nature of persistence, especially for equity-bearing students as they negotiated systemic and subtle barriers that had potential to hinder their academic endeavours.
Beliaev Damping in Bose Gas
Authors: Dereziński Jan , Li Ben , Napiórkowski Marcin
Published: August 2024

According to the Bogoliubov theory the low energy behaviour of the Bose gas at zero temperature can be described by non-interacting bosonic quasiparticles called phonons. In this work the damping rate of phonons at low momenta, the so-called Beliaev damping, is explained and computed with simple arguments involving the Fermi Golden Rule and Bogoliubov’s quasiparticles.
A continuum model for in-plane analysis of masonry: an approach based on failure mode classification
Authors: Bertani G. , Patruno L. , D’Altri A. M. , Castellazzi G. , Cervera M. , de Miranda S.
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a multi-failure continuum model for in-plane analysis of masonry structures is introduced. The model is based on a recently-proposed single-surface multi-failure strength domain, and is here implemented in an elasto-plastic framework to perform nonlinear incremental static analyses on masonry walls. As a key feature of the model, the activated failure mechanism(s) can be identified and the corresponding plastic strains evolution computed. In particular, the distinction between crushing failure, joint failure (horizontal, vertical, and diagonal) and mixed joint-block failure is guaranteed by means of specific weights assigned to each failure mode. This amounts to a classification procedure which selects the active failure modes based on the information provided by the stress state. As a further novelty of this work, ad hoc nonassociated flow rules are then chosen to characterize each failure mode independently, so allowing a straightforward tracking of their nonlinear evolution. Well-known numerical examples are used to show the capability of the approach. From these, the proposed continuum model appears accurate and the tracking of the plastic strains related to the considered failure modes allows a straightforward interpretation of the results.
Qualitative analysis and optical soliton solutions galore: scrutinizing the (2+1)-dimensional complex modified Korteweg–de Vries system
Authors: Kopçasız Bahadır
Published: August 2024

This investigation discusses the (2+1)-dimensional complex modified Korteweg–de Vries (cmKdV) system. The cmKdV system describes the nontrivial dynamics of water particles from the surface to the bottom of a water layer, providing a more comprehensive understanding of wave behavior. The cmKdV system finds applications in various fields of physics and engineering, including fluid dynamics, nonlinear optics, plasma physics, and condensed matter physics. Understanding the behavior predicted by the cmKdV system can lead to insights into the underlying physical processes in these systems and potentially inform the design of novel technologies. A new version of the generalized exponential rational function method (nGERFM) is utilized to discover diverse soliton solutions. This method uncovers analytical solutions, including exponential function, singular periodic wave, combo trigonometric, shock wave, singular soliton, and hyperbolic solutions in mixed form. Moreover, the planar dynamical system of the concerned equation is created, all probable phase portraits are given, and sensitive inspection is applied to check the sensitivity of the considered equation. Furthermore, after adding a perturbed term, chaotic and quasi-periodic behaviors have been observed for different values of parameters, and multistability is reported at the end. To gain a deeper understanding of the dynamic behavior of the solutions, analytical results are supplemented with numerical simulations. These obtained outcomes provide a foundation for further investigation, making the solutions useful, manageable, and trustworthy for the future development of intricate nonlinear issues. This study’s methodology is reliable, strong, effective, and applicable to various nonlinear partial differential equations (NLPDEs). As far as we know, this type of research has never been conducted to such an extent for this equation before. The Maple software application is used to verify the correctness of all obtained solutions.
The Category of $$\omega $$-Effect Algebras: Tensor Product and $$\omega $$-Completion
Authors: Lachman Dominik
Published: August 2024

Effect algebras are certain ordered structures that serve as a general framework for studying the algebraic semantics of quantum logic. We study effect algebras which obtain suprema of countable monotone sequences – so-called $$\omega $$
ω
-effect algebras. This assumption is necessary to capture basic (non-discrete) probabilistic concepts. We establish a free $$\omega $$
ω
-completion of effect algebras (i.e., a left adjoint to the functor that forgets the existence of $$\omega $$
ω
-suprema) and the existence of a tensor product in the category of $$\omega $$
ω
-effect algebras. These results are obtained by means of so-called test spaces. Test spaces form a category that contains effect algebras as a reflective subcategory, but provides more space for constructions.
Soil nematodes modify interactions between nitrogen-fixing and non-fixing tree seedlings from late, but not early, successional stages
Authors: Gilarte P. , Plett J. M. , Pendall E. , Carrillo Y. , Nielsen U. N.
Published: August 2024

Aims

Plant community dynamics are influenced by interspecific interactions. Previous studies have shown that soil organisms play a key role in such interactions, but few studies have quantified soil fauna contributions.

Methods

We investigated the effects of root lesion (RLN) and bacterial feeding (BFN) nematodes on the interaction between seedlings of nitrogen-(N)-fixing tree species of Acacia and non-fixing Banksia from early and late successional stages of a temperate forest in a pot experiment.

Results

Nematodes had consistent, albeit minor, negative effects on both N-fixers and non-fixers in the early successional stage scenario. By contrast, BFNs increased biomass production of both species in late-stage monocultures and in Banksia in mixed cultures. Moreover, RLNs negatively affected late-stage Banksia in monocultures but promoted its biomass production when grown with Acacia. Reduced 15N concentration in Banksia indicates that the switch was driven by transfer of N from Acacia facilitated by RLN.

Conclusions

Soil nematodes thus moderate interspecific interactions differently in early and late successional stages.
The Influence of Contamination from Concrete Materials on the Growth and Accumulation of Metals within an Invasive Weed (Salix spp.)
Authors: Purdy Katherine , Reynolds Jason K. , Wright Ian A.
Published: August 2024

Urban riparian vegetation is frequently dominated by invasive weeds, whose growth is often attributed to the elevated nitrogen and phosphorous in urban waters and soils. However, less recognition is given to other urban contaminants that may influence riparian vegetation. Previous studies have indicated that the dissolution of concrete modifies water and soil geochemistry and potentially enhances the growth of invasive species. This study investigated the relationship between urban water quality and the growth of an invasive urban riparian weed, willow (Salix spp.), to examine the contribution and influence of concrete materials. The study used water from endangered upland peat wetlands within and adjoining the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, many of which are in urban catchments and suffer degradation from water pollution and invasive weeds. In this study, willow cuttings were grown in a laboratory using four water treatments: pristine (non-urban), urban, and non-urban water exposed to two different concrete materials. The urban and concrete-exposed water treatments were associated with increased plant growth measures in addition to increased concentrations of barium and strontium that bioaccumulated in plant tissue.
Exploring the feasibility of implementing the SPELL-Links to Reading and Writing intervention
Authors: Dahl-Leonard Katlynn , Hall Colby , Capin Philip
Published: August 2024

This study examined six reading intervention teachers’ implementation of the SPELL-Links to Reading and Writing intervention with students in Grades 2 and 3. The purpose was to explore the extent to which teachers who received a one-day training session without ongoing coaching support were able to implement the intervention with fidelity. It also aimed to better understand the determinants (i.e., barriers and facilitators) of teachers’ implementation and their perceptions related to the importance, feasibility, and effectiveness of the intervention. Data from four sources (implementation logs, implementation observations, interviews, and surveys) were collected and analyzed. Participating teachers did not implement the intervention at the intended dosage of 4 days per week, but they did demonstrate high adherence and quality on average. Several barriers to implementation were identified, including intervention training, intervention content and structure, compatibility with existing practices, and alignment with goals. Notable facilitators of implementation were teacher capability and peer support. Teachers had varying perceptions of the intervention, with neutral satisfaction on average. These findings indicate a need for further research on determinants of intervention implementation as they may be crucial in supporting teachers’ implementation fidelity.
Immigrant Selectivity and Educational Outcomes of Immigrant Children: A Temporal Perspective
Authors: Feniger Yariv , Gorodzeisky Anastasia , Bar-Haim Eyal , Ayalon Hanna
Published: August 2024

Despite much research on immigrant selectivity, little attention has been given to its temporal dimension. Thus, while immigrant selectivity has been theoretically identified and empirically demonstrated, it has been viewed as a relatively stable social occurrence. The study reported in this paper examined temporal changes in immigrant selectivity using an extensive dataset on migration from the former Soviet Union (FSU) to Israel between 1989 and 1994. It was found that the average level of parental education obtained in the country of origin had significantly decreased during a short period of time. By tracking the progress of these immigrants’ children from high school to adulthood through administrative data, a corresponding decrease in educational achievement was observed among the incoming children who migrated to Israel. However, multivariate analysis using linear and logistic regression models showed that the drop in average parental education could not fully explain the decrease in children’s educational attainment. We suggest that immigrant children who arrive in the receiving country after several years of a continuous wave of immigration may also be affected by changes in the receiving education system, as it is trying to cope with growing numbers of new arrivals.
Longitudinal studies of leadership development: a scoping review
Authors: Cotrim Felipe Senna , Da Silva Gomes Jorge Filipe
Published: August 2024

Although various reviews about leadership development (LD) have been published in recent years, no one has attempted to systematically review longitudinal LD studies, which is arguably the most appropriate way to study LD (Day, Leadership Quarterly, 22(3), 561–571, 2011). In this way, the focus of the present scoping review is to understand how true longitudinal LD studies have been investigated and what inconsistencies exist, primarily from a methodological perspective. Only business contexts and leadership-associated outcomes are considered. To achieve this, ample searches were performed in five online databases from 1900 to 2021 that returned 1023 articles after the removal of duplicates. Additionally, subject experts were consulted, reference lists of key studies were cross-checked, and handsearch of leading leadership journals was performed. A subsequent and rigorous inclusion process narrowed the sample down to 19 articles. The combined sample contains 2,776 participants (67% male) and 88 waves of data (average of 4.2). Evidence is mapped according to participants, setting, procedures, outcomes, analytical approach, and key findings. Despite many strengths, a lack of context diversity and qualitative designs are noticed. A thematic analysis indicates that LD authors are focused on measuring status, behavioral, and cognitive aspects. Implications for knowledge and future research paths are discussed.
Hindcasting Estuarine Bottom Salinity Using Observing Systems Data and Nonlinear Regression, as Applied to Oysters in Delaware Bay
Authors: Howlader Archi , North Elizabeth W. , Munroe Daphne , Hare Matthew P.
Published: August 2024

Salinity is a major environmental factor that influences the population dynamics of fish and shellfish along coasts and estuaries, yet empirical methods for hindcasting salinity at specific sampling stations are not widely available. The specific aim of this research was to predict the salinity experienced by juvenile and adult oysters (Crassostrea virginica) collected at sampling stations in Delaware Bay. To do so, empirical relationships were created to predict salinity at five oyster bed stations using observing systems data. These relationships were then applied to construct indices of salinity exposure over an oyster’s lifetime. Three independent salinity data sources were used in conjunction with observing systems data to construct and validate the predictive relationships. The root mean square error (RMSE) of the models ranged from 0.5 to 1.6 psu when model predictions were compared with the three independent data sets. Results demonstrated that data from an observing system near the head of Delaware Bay could be used to predict salinity within ± 2 psu at oyster bed stations as far down-estuary as 39 km. When these models were applied to estimate low salinity exposure of 2-year-old oysters via the metric of consecutive days below 5 psu, the indices suggested that there could be as much as a 42-day difference in low salinity exposure for oysters at stations just 31 km apart. The approach of using observing systems data to hindcast salinity could be applied to advance understanding of salt distribution and the effect of low salinity exposure on organisms in other estuaries, especially bottom-associated species.
A Research-Practice Partnership to Develop the R-CITY Multi-Component, Equity-Focused Social–Emotional Learning Intervention
Authors: Bottiani Jessika H. , Gillins Maisha , Griffin Charity Brown , Kaihoi Chelsea A. , Hughes Lorenzo , Pendergrass Sharon , Pandey Toshna , Voegtlin Ryan , Rouiller Sandy , Pas Elise T. , Debnam Katrina J. , Bradshaw Catherine P.
Published: August 2024

There is growing interest in the integration of social–emotional learning (SEL) and equity approaches in schools, yet systematic research on how to blend these two frameworks is limited. In this article, we describe the process by which a research-practice partnership (RPP) collaborated to iteratively co-create a multi-component equity-focused SEL preventive intervention in the context of a politically charged landscape related to the ‘dual pandemics’ of racial injustice and COVID-19 in the early 2020s. We conducted a document review of informal data sources (e.g., meeting minutes, correspondence) and analyses of formal data sources (i.e., teacher interviews, student focus groups) to describe how we overcame challenges to form an RPP, to demonstrate our collaborative intervention development efforts, and to assess feedback on the contextual appropriateness of the intervention. We discuss lessons learned from our partnership efforts and reflect on future directions for RPP-driven work to advance equity-focused SEL in K-12 public schools.
A multi-technique approach to unveil the composition and fabrication of a pre-Roman glass masterpiece: a double-faced human-head shape polychrome glass pendant (2nd -1st c. BC)
Authors: Barroso-Solares S. , Estalayo E. , Aramendia J. , Rodriguez-Gutierrez E. , Sanz-Minguez C. , Prieto A. C. , Madariaga J. M. , Pinto J.
Published: August 2024

Pre-Roman glass craftsmanship reached its summit with the development of complex polychrome glass beads, being the Phoenician glass pendants the most exquisite and elaborate example. The uniqueness and complexity of such findings could reveal key information for the understanding of the production and trade of glass pieces at that age. However, these findings have practically never been studied from a physic-chemical perspective. In this work, a remarkable polychrome glass pendant (2nd -1st c. BC) found at the archaeological site of Pintia (Padilla de Duero, Valladolid, Spain) is studied by a multi-analytical non-destructive approach, employing X-ray tomography to understand its fabrication procedure, as well as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Raman spectroscopy, both employed in microscopic mode, to determine the composition of each glass employed in its fabrication. The outstanding preservation state and well-defined archaeological context of this glass pendant offered a unique opportunity to expand the understanding of pre-Roman glass pieces, while the combination of the experimental techniques employed provided the first complete and detailed study of a Phoenician glass pendant. The fabrication procedure of the pendant has been identified step-by-step, showing evidence of the use of pre-made pieces for the eyes, as well as hints of its fabrication in a secondary workshop. Moreover, the microchemical analysis of the vividly colored glasses by XRF and Raman spectroscopy revealed a composition compatible with the use of natron as fluxing agent, typical of Phoenician glass, the presence of surface alterations corresponding to carbonatation processes, as well as the nature of the employed chromophores or pigments: Mn, Cu, and Co for the blue, Fe-S for the black, CaSb2O7 and CaSb2O7 + TiO2 for two diverse white glasses, and a pyrochloric triple oxide (Pb2Sb2 − xSnxO7−x/2) and lead oxides for the yellow. Remarkably, the use of pyrochloric triple oxides as yellow pigments has scarcely been previously reported at that age. Finally, the identification by Raman spectroscopy of CaSb2O7 and the β-phase of CaSiO3, as well as the Raman spectra features of the glass matrix corresponding to the blue glass, indicated maximum firing temperatures below 1100 °C.
Management of the vaccination campaign in a population of frail older outpatients affected by cognitive or endocrinological conditions: a pilot study in Italy
Authors: Veronese Nicola , Ragusa Francesco Saverio , Titone Pascal Roberto , Vernuccio Laura , Catanese Giuseppina , Randazzo Maria Angela , Palermo Mario , Di Bella Giovanna , Mansueto Pasquale , Dominguez Ligia J. , Barbagallo Mario
Published: August 2024

Vaccination, particularly against pneumococcus and influenza, is a low-cost primary prevention, useful to avoid hard complications, particularly among frail older people. In this pilot study, we aimed to assess the effect of a strategy for influenza and pneumococcal vaccination for outpatients mainly affected by cognitive or endocrinological conditions, evaluating what could stimulate or demotivate vaccination among older people. This study was conducted during the 2023–2024 influenza season at the outpatient clinics in Palermo, Italy. A total 76 patients were included. More than half of the patients could be considered as pre-frail and about 20% frail, according to a comprehensive geriatric evaluation. Among patients, 46.05% received only vaccination against pneumococcus, 28.95% both vaccinations, and 25.0% only against influenza. Compared with the previous seasons, a 19.5% increase of influenza and 90.2% of pneumococcal vaccine uptake was observed. Side effects of vaccination were the main reason of the previous rejection, namely 76.9% for influenza and 53.8% for anti-pneumococcal vaccination. In conclusion, our study indicates how a new vaccination strategy in different settings could be feasible. Proposing influenza and pneumococcal vaccination for frail older outpatients could be an effective instrument to improve immunization coverage that is still low among older people.
Involvement of cognitive abilities in the occurrence of fractures in fallers aged 55 years or older: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Attoh-Mensah Elpidio , Pothier Kristell , Loggia Gilles , Morello Remy , Chavoix Chantal , Marcelli Christian
Published: August 2024

Background

Both bone fragility and poor cognitive functions are known to contribute to fracture occurrence, but it remains unclear whether their contribution is independent of each other and which cognitive dysfunctions are most involved. This study aimed to clarify the involvement of various cognitive abilities in fall-related fractures among community-dwelling fallers aged 55 and over, and to determine whether poor cognitive abilities is a risk factor independent of bone fragility.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, we collected sociodemographic and medical data, including bone mineral density (BMD), and performed cognitive and mobility assessments in 189 individuals with a history of fall in the previous year.

Results

Fallers with a fracture had poorer cognitive and mobility performance than non-injured fallers. Multivariate regressions revealed that cognition, BMD and other risk factors were independently associated with fracture among all participants (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01–1.08, p = 0.034 for completion time on part A of the Trail Making Test [TMT-A], and OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.33–0.84, p < 0.001 for BMD), particularly in women (OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.60–0.98, p = 0.039 for backward digit span score, and OR = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.25–0.75, p = 0.001 for BMD).

Conclusion

Thus, poor cognition, especially poor processing speed and working memory, is associated with an increased risk of fracture in fallers, particularly in women, regardless of BMD or other fracture risk factors. Hence, an in-depth cognitive evaluation should enhance the detection of fallers at risk of fracture, particularly in the absence of signs of osteoporosis, and thus ensure the best possible prevention.
Study on static characteristics of a novel prestress-reinforced railway subgrade
Authors: Dong Junli , Xu Fang , Zhang Qishu , Leng Wuming , Li Yafeng , Yang Qi
Published: August 2024

Understanding the reinforcement effect of the newly developed prestressed reinforcement components (PRCs) (a system composed of prestressed steel bars (PSBs), protective sleeves, lateral pressure plates (LPPs), and anchoring elements) is technically significant for the rational design of prestressed subgrade. A three-dimensional finite element model was established and verified based on a novel static model test and utilized to systematically analyze the influence of prestress levels and reinforcement modes on the reinforcement effect of the subgrade. The results show that the PRCs provide additional confining pressure to the subgrade through the diffusion effect of the prestress, which can therefore effectively improve the service performance of the subgrade. Compared to the unreinforced conventional subgrades, the settlements of prestress-reinforced subgrades are reduced. The settlement attenuation rate (R
s) near the LPPs is larger than that at the subgrade center, and increasing the prestress positively contributes to the stability of the subgrade structure. In the multi-row reinforcement mode, the reinforcement effect of PRCs can extend from the reinforced area to the unreinforced area. In addition, as the horizontal distance from the LPPs increases, the additional confining pressure converted by the PSBs and LPPs gradually diminishes when spreading to the core load bearing area of the subgrade, resulting in a decrease in the R
s. Under the single-row reinforcement mode, PRCs can be strategically arranged according to the local areas where subgrade defects readily occurred or observed, to obtain the desired reinforcement effect. Moreover, excessive prestress should not be applied near the subgrade shoulder line to avoid the shear failure of the subgrade shoulder. PRCs can be flexibly used for preventing and treating various subgrade defects of newly constructed or existing railway lines, achieving targeted and classified prevention, and effectively improving the bearing performance and deformation resistance of the subgrade. The research results are instructive for further elucidating the prestress reinforcement effect of PRCs on railway subgrades.
Workplace Exposures Vary Across Neighborhoods in the US: Implications on Social Vulnerability and Racial/Ethnic Health Disparities
Authors: Shkembi Abas , Zelner Jon , Park Sung Kyun , Neitzel Richard
Published: August 2024

Ignoring workplace exposures that occur beyond the local residential context in place-based risk indices like the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) likely misclassifies community exposure by under-counting risks and obscuring true drivers of racial/ethnic health disparities. To investigate this hypothesis, we developed several place-based indicators of occupational exposure and examined their relationships with race/ethnicity, SVI, and health inequities. We used publicly available job exposure matrices and employment estimates from the United States (US) Census to create and map six indicators of occupational hazards for every census tract in the US. We characterized census tracts with high workplace–low SVI scores. We used natural cubic splines to examine tract level associations between the percentage of racial/ethnic minorities (individuals who are not non-Hispanic White) and the occupational indicators. Lastly, we stratified each census tract into high/low occupational noise, chemical pollutant, and disease/infection exposure to examine racial/ethnic health disparities to diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure, respectively, as a consequence of occupational exposure inequities. Our results show that racial/ethnic minority communities, particularly those that are also low-income, experience a disproportionate burden of workplace exposures that may be contributing to racial/ethnic health disparities. When composite risk measures, such as SVI, are calculated using only information from the local residential neighborhood, they may systematically under-count occupational risks experienced by the most vulnerable communities. There is a need to consider the role of occupational justice on nationwide, racial/ethnic health disparities.
Insights into Early Interactions on Innovative Developments with European Regulators
Authors: Uster David W. , Cordo’ Valentina , Cormier Emmanuel , Ehmann Falk
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The European Medicines Agency Innovation Task Force (ITF) acts as early point of contact for medicine and technology developers to enable innovation during early drug development stages through ITF briefing meetings.

Aim

To reflect on the current pace of innovation and to assess the potential of ITF stakeholder interactions, a comprehensive analysis of the ITF briefing meetings held between 2021 and 2022 was conducted with a focus on individual questions raised by the developers and the related feedback provided by the European regulators.

Methods

Questions raised during ITF briefing meetings were extracted and categorised into main and sub-categories, revealing different themes across the whole medicine development process such as manufacturing technologies, pre-clinical developments, and clinically relevant questions.

Results

There was positive feedback from regulators who gave initial guidance in 85% of the answers, provided concrete examples in 20% of the answers and recommended to continue discussions through additional regulatory procedures in 22% of the answers.

Conclusion

This analysis frames the content and the type of topics discussed during ITF briefing meetings. Moreover, it describes the type of regulatory feedback provided to medicine developers and identified potential for improvement of these early interactions. Therefore, this analysis emphasises the role of ITF briefing meetings in fostering innovation in medicine.