bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paraneoplastic leukocytosis in a dog following liposarcoma resection
Authors: Cutler Simone M. , Blackwood Laura , Pratschke Kathryn , Parys Maciej , Philbey Adrian W. , Spyropoulou Myrto , Starybrat Daria , Breheny Craig R.
Published: March 2024

A 10‐year‐old, female, neutered cocker spaniel presented for surgical debulking of an axillary and cranial thoracic wall liposarcoma. Pre‐surgical blood analysis demonstrated anaemia (packed cell volume 17%), leukocytosis (white blood cell count 43.95 × 109/L) and thrombocytopenia (15 × 109/L), with platelet loss secondary to chronic intra‐lesional haemorrhage or immune‐mediated destruction, and concomitant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius urinary tract infection. A blood transfusion and antibiotics were administered before surgery. Within 48 hours after surgery, an extreme leukocytosis (white blood cell count 170 × 109/L), involving a severe left shift neutrophilia (95 × 109/L) was observed; this resolved within 10 days. Serum granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor levels were similar to controls. The extreme leukocytosis was suspected to be related to a paraneoplastic leukaemoid reaction combined with an expected postoperative mild leukocytosis. Further investigation into the pathophysiology underlying similar cases is required. One month after surgery, all haematological abnormalities had normalised, and metronomic chemotherapy with chlorambucil commenced.
Four-jet event shapes in hadronic Higgs decays
Authors: Gehrmann-De Ridder Aude , Preuss Christian T. , Williams Ciaran
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We present next-to-leading order perturbative QCD predictions for four-jet-like event-shape observables in hadronic Higgs decays. To this end, we take into account two Higgs-decay categories: involving either the Yukawa-induced decay to a $${\text{b}}\overline{{\text{b}} }$$ pair or the loop-induced decay to two gluons via an effective Higgs-gluon-gluon coupling. We present results for distributions related to the event-shape variables thrust minor, light-hemisphere mass, narrow jet broadening, D-parameter, and Durham four-to-three-jet transition variable. For each of these observables we study the impact of higher-order corrections and compare their size and shape in the two Higgs-decay categories. We find large NLO corrections with a visible shape difference between the two decay modes, leading to a significant shift of the peak in distributions related to the H → gg decay mode.
Scattering of spinning compact objects from a worldline EFT
Authors: Ben-Shahar Maor
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We study the EFT of a spinning compact object and show that with appropriate gauge fixing, computations become amenable to worldline quantum field theory techniques. We use the resulting action to compute Compton and one-loop scattering amplitudes at fourth order in spin. By matching these amplitdes to solutions of the Teukolsky equations, we fix the values of Wilson coefficients appearing in the EFT such that it reproduces Kerr black hole scattering. We keep track of the spin supplementary condition throughout our computations and discuss alternative ways to ensure its preservation.
In-hospital mortality after prehospital endotracheal intubation versus alternative methods of airway management in trauma patients. A cohort study from the TraumaRegister DGU®
Authors: Weigeldt Moritz , Schulz-Drost Stefan , Stengel Dirk , Lefering Rolf , Treskatsch Sascha , Berger Christian ,   the TraumaRegister DGU
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Prehospital airway management in trauma is a key component of care and is associated with particular risks. Endotracheal intubation (ETI) is the gold standard, while extraglottic airway devices (EGAs) are recommended alternatives. There is limited evidence comparing their effectiveness. In this retrospective analysis from the TraumaRegister DGU®, we compared ETI with EGA in prehospital airway management regarding in-hospital mortality in patients with trauma.

Methods

We included cases only from German hospitals with a minimum Abbreviated Injury Scale score ≥ 2 and age ≥ 16 years. All patients without prehospital airway protection were excluded. We performed a multivariate logistic regression to adjust with the outcome measure of hospital mortality.

Results

We included n = 10,408 cases of whom 92.5% received ETI and 7.5% EGA. The mean injury severity score was higher in the ETI group (28.8 ± 14.2) than in the EGA group (26.3 ± 14.2), and in-hospital mortality was comparable: ETI 33.0%; EGA 30.7% (27.5 to 33.9). After conducting logistic regression, the odds ratio for mortality in the ETI group was 1.091 (0.87 to 1.37). The standardized mortality ratio was 1.04 (1.01 to 1.07) in the ETI group and 1.1 (1.02 to 1.26) in the EGA group.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in mortality rates between the use of ETI or EGA, or the ratio of expected versus observed mortality when using ETI.
Assessment of length-of-day and universal time predictions based on the results of the Second Earth Orientation Parameters Prediction Comparison Campaign
Authors: Śliwińska-Bronowicz Justyna , Kur Tomasz , Wińska Małgorzata , Dobslaw Henryk , Nastula Jolanta , Partyka Aleksander , Belda Santiago , Bizouard Christian , Boggs Dale , Bruni Sara , Chen Lue , Chin Mike , Dhar Sujata , Dill Robert , Ferrandiz Jose Manuel , Gou Junyang , Gross Richard , Guessoum Sonia , Han Songtao , Heinkelmann Robert , Irrgang Christopher , Kiani Shahvandi Mostafa , Li Jia , Ligas Marcin , Liu Lintao , Lu Weitao , Mayer Volker , Michalczak Maciej , Modiri Sadegh , Otten Michiel , Ratcliff Todd , Raut Shrishail , Saynisch-Wagner Jan , Schartner Matthias , Schoenemann Erik , Schuh Harald , Soja Benedikt , Su Xiaoqing , Thaller Daniela , Thomas Maik , Wang Guocheng , Wu Yuanwei , Xu Xueqing , Yang Xinyu , Zhao Xin , Zhou Zhijin
Published: March 2024

Predicting Earth Orientation Parameters (EOP) is crucial for precise positioning and navigation both on the Earth’s surface and in space. In recent years, many approaches have been developed to forecast EOP, incorporating observed EOP as well as information on the effective angular momentum (EAM) derived from numerical models of the atmosphere, oceans, and land-surface dynamics. The Second Earth Orientation Parameters Prediction Comparison Campaign (2nd EOP PCC) aimed to comprehensively evaluate EOP forecasts from many international participants and identify the most promising prediction methodologies. This paper presents the validation results of predictions for universal time and length-of-day variations submitted during the 2nd EOP PCC, providing an assessment of their accuracy and reliability. We conduct a detailed evaluation of all valid forecasts using the IERS 14 C04 solution provided by the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) as a reference and mean absolute error as the quality measure. Our analysis demonstrates that approaches based on machine learning or the combination of least squares and autoregression, with the use of EAM information as an additional input, provide the highest prediction accuracy for both investigated parameters. Utilizing precise EAM data and forecasts emerges as a pivotal factor in enhancing forecasting accuracy. Although several methods show some potential to outperform the IERS forecasts, the current standard predictions disseminated by IERS are highly reliable and can be fully recommended for operational purposes.
Autoimmune encephalitis: what the radiologist needs to know
Authors: Sanvito Francesco , Pichiecchio Anna , Paoletti Matteo , Rebella Giacomo , Resaz Martina , Benedetti Luana , Massa Federico , Morbelli Silvia , Caverzasi Eduardo , Asteggiano Carlo , Businaro Pietro , Masciocchi Stefano , Castellan Lucio , Franciotta Diego , Gastaldi Matteo , Roccatagliata Luca
Published: March 2024

Autoimmune encephalitis is a relatively novel nosological entity characterized by an immune-mediated damage of the central nervous system. While originally described as a paraneoplastic inflammatory phenomenon affecting limbic structures, numerous instances of non-paraneoplastic pathogenesis, as well as extra-limbic involvement, have been characterized. Given the wide spectrum of insidious clinical presentations ranging from cognitive impairment to psychiatric symptoms or seizures, it is crucial to raise awareness about this disease category. In fact, an early diagnosis can be dramatically beneficial for the prognosis both to achieve an early therapeutic intervention and to detect a potential underlying malignancy. In this scenario, the radiologist can be the first to pose the hypothesis of autoimmune encephalitis and refer the patient to a comprehensive diagnostic work-up – including clinical, serological, and neurophysiological assessments.

In this article, we illustrate the main radiological characteristics of autoimmune encephalitis and its subtypes, including the typical limbic presentation, the features of extra-limbic involvement, and also peculiar imaging findings. In addition, we review the most relevant alternative diagnoses that should be considered, ranging from other encephalitides to neoplasms, vascular conditions, and post-seizure alterations. Finally, we discuss the most appropriate imaging diagnostic work-up, also proposing a suggested MRI protocol.
Optimal Control Related to Weak Solutions of a Chemotaxis-Consumption Model
Authors: Corrêa Vianna Filho André Luiz , Guillén-González Francisco
Published: March 2024

In the present work we investigate an optimal control problem related to the following chemotaxis-consumption model in a bounded domain $$\Omega \subset {\mathbb {R}}^3$$

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. We address the existence of optimal control restricted to a weak solution setting, where, in particular, uniqueness of state (u, v) given a control f is not clear. Then by considering weak solutions satisfying an adequate energy inequality, we prove the existence of optimal control subject to uniformly bounded controls. Finally, we discuss the relation between the considered control problem and two other related ones, where the existence of optimal solution can not be proved.
Ultrasound-guided initial diagnosis and follow-up of pediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Kerscher Susanne Regina , Zipfel Julian , Haas-Lude Karin , Bevot Andrea , Schuhmann Martin Ulrich
Published: March 2024

Background

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in children often presents with non-specific symptoms found in conditions such as hydrocephalus. For definite diagnosis, invasive intracranial pressure measurement is usually required. Ultrasound (US) of the optic nerve sheath diameter provides a non-invasive method to assess intracranial pressure. Transtemporal US allows imaging of the third ventricle and thus assessment for hydrocephalus.

Objective

To investigate whether the combination of US optic nerve sheath and third ventricle diameter can be used as a screening tool in pediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension to indicate elevated intracranial pressure and exclude hydrocephalus as an underlying pathology. Further, to analyze whether both parameters can be used to monitor treatment outcome.

Materials and methods

We prospectively included 36 children with idiopathic intracranial hypertension and 32 controls. Using a 12-Mhz linear transducer and a 1–4-Mhz phased-array transducer, respectively, optic nerve sheath and third ventricle diameters were determined initially and during the course of treatment.

Results

In patients, the mean optic nerve sheath diameter was significantly larger (6.45±0.65 mm, controls: 4.96±0.32 mm) and the mean third ventricle diameter (1.69±0.65 mm, controls: 2.99±1.31 mm) was significantly smaller compared to the control group, P<0.001. Optimal cut-off values were 5.55 mm for the optic nerve sheath and 1.83 mm for the third ventricle diameter.

Conclusions

The combined use of US optic nerve sheath and third ventricle diameter is an ideal non-invasive screening tool in pediatric idiopathic intracranial hypertension to indicate elevated intracranial pressure while ruling out hydrocephalus. Treatment can effectively be monitored by repeated US, which also reliably indicates relapse.
Mechanical Purification of Lipofilling: The Relationship Between Cell Yield, Cell Growth, and Fat Volume Maintenance
Authors: Gentile Pietro , Ossanna Riccardo , Sierra Lindsey Alejandra Quintero , Sbarbati Andrea
Published: March 2024

Background

The mechanical manipulations of fat tissue represented from centrifugation, filtration, washing, and fragmentation were considered the most effective strategies aiming to obtain purified lipofilling with different impacts both in terms of adipose-derived stem cells amount contained in stromal vascular fraction, and fat volume maintenance.

Objectives

The present work aimed to report results in fat volume maintenance obtained by lipofilling purification based on the combined use of washing and filtration, in a clinical study, and to deeply investigate the adipose-derived stem cells yield and growth capacity of the different stromal vascular fraction extraction techniques with an in vitro approach.

Methods

A preliminary prospective, case-control study was conducted. 20 patients affected by face and breast soft tissue defects were treated with lipofilling and divided into two groups: n = 10 patients (study group) were treated with lipofilling obtained by washing and filtration procedures, while n = 10 (control group) were treated with lipofilling obtained by centrifugation according to the Coleman technique. 6 months after the lipofilling, the volume maintenance percentage was analyzed by clinical picture and magnetic resonance imaging comparisons. Additionally, extracted stromal vascular fraction cells were also in vitro analyzed in terms of adipose-derived stem cell yield and growth capacity.

Results

A 69% ± 5.0% maintenance of fat volume after 6 months was observed in the study group, compared with 44% ± 5.5% in the control group. Moreover, the cellular yield of the control group resulted in 267,000 ± 94,107 adipose-derived stem cells/mL, while the study group resulted in 528,895 ± 115,853 adipose-derived stem cells /mL, with a p-value = 0.1805. Interestingly, the study group showed a fold increase in cell growth of 6758 ± 0.7122, while the control group resulted in 3888 ± 0.3078, with a p < 0.05 (p = 0.0122).

Conclusions

The comparison of both groups indicated that washing and filtration were a better efficient system in lipofilling preparation, compared to centrifugation, both in terms of volume maintenance and adipose-derived stem cell growth ability.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://www.springer.com/00266.
Fear of movement and competence frustration mediate the relationship between pain catastrophising and physical function in people living with axSpA: an online cross-sectional survey
Authors: Rouse Peter C. , Ingram Thomas , Standage Martyn , Sengupta Raj
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study is to examine the contribution of pain catastrophising to Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) patient’s physical function and to test the mediating role of fear of movement, and uniquely, the contribution of competence frustration to the fear-avoidance model. Participants (N = 98, 70% female, M age = 45.62, SD 12.16) completed an online survey (December 2020–May 2021) distributed in the United Kingdom via the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (n ≈ 3500; NASS, 2019). The PROCESS SPSS macro was used to test three mediation models using percentile bootstrap 95% confidence intervals (PBCI). A significant indirect effect on the relationship between pain and physical function via fear of movement (β = 0.10, 95% PBCI = 0.030–0.183) was observed (Model 1). Model 2 showed the relationship between pain catastrophising and physical function to be significantly mediated by fear of movement (β = 0.16, 95% PBCI = 0.005–0.322). Finally, Model 3 showed a significant indirect effect on the relationship between pain catastrophising and physical function via competence frustration (β = 0.15, 95% PBCI = 0.014–0.309) but not through fear of movement (β = 0.062, 95% PBCI = − 0.134 to 0.248). To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine and demonstrate the unique contribution of competence need frustration to the Fear-avoidance model in people that live with axSpA. Identifying modifiable factors that contribute to disease outcomes such as physical function can improve the care and quality of life for people living with a disease currently without a cure.
Preoperative ultrasound-guided dual localization with titanium clips and carbon nanoparticles for predicting the surgical approach and guiding the resection of Siewert type II esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wu Weihang , Luo Ziqiang , Fang Yongchao , Yu Li , Lin Nan , Yang Jin , Zhao Hu , Xiao Chunhong , Wang Yu
Published: March 2024

Objective

To investigate the superiority of preoperative ultrasound-guided titanium clip and nanocarbon dual localization over traditional methods for determining the surgical approach and guiding resection of Siewert type II adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG).

Method

This study included 66 patients with Siewert type II AEG who were treated at the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force 900th Hospital between September 1, 2021, and September 1, 2023. They were randomly divided into an experimental group (n = 33), in which resection was guided by the dual localization technique, and the routine group (n = 33), in which the localization technique was not used. Surgical approach predictions, proximal esophageal resection lengths, pathological features, and the occurrence of complications were compared between the groups.

Result

The use of the dual localization technique resulted in higher accuracy in predicting the surgical approach (96.8% vs. 75.9%, P = 0.02) and shorter proximal esophageal resection lengths (2.39 ± 0.28 cm vs. 2.86 ± 0.39 cm, P < 0.001) in the experimental group as compared to the routine group, while there was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative complications (22.59% vs. 24.14%, P = 0.88).

Conclusion

Preoperative dual localization with titanium clips and carbon nanoparticles is significantly superior to traditional methods and can reliably delineate the actual infiltration boundaries of Siewert type II AEG, guide the surgical approach, and avoid excessive esophageal resection.
Evaluating rock mass groutability at shallow depths: a novel approach based on geo-structural surveys and permeability tests
Authors: De Luca C. , Pignalosa A. , Budetta Paolo
Published: March 2024

The study describes the geological and geo-structural setting of an unstable sea arch in a very attractive landscape of Southern Italy. It evaluates the applicability of some reinforcement work designs consisting of rock mass grouting at shallow depths along the arch vault and abutments. To this aim, the hydraulic conductivity of the rock mass and its groutability were evaluated in detail, integrating field geo-mechanical surveys, boreholes, Lugeon tests, and grouting tests with different grout compositions. Results from site tests were compared with grout take values calculated by applying classical empirical approaches available in the literature, based on rock mass permeability, or by using a novel deterministic approach based on geo-mechanical field surveys. Considering the shallow depths of the tests, the results suggest that the former gave high values, inconsistent with grout tests. On the contrary, the novel deterministic approach provided grout take values consistent with the results of grouting tests, resulting in the most reliable approach for the arch’s thin, shallow, and highly fractured structure.

The use of different grout compositions in the site tests proved that extensive use of highly dense and viscous slurries is required (bentonite-cement grout) due to the high-grade weathering and karstification of joint surfaces, which deeply increases their hydraulic conductivity. However, the rock mass grouting must be considered complementary to other reinforcement measures such as bolting, especially along the arch vault.
Impacts of climate change on airborne Quercus pollen trends in Andalusia region (southern Spain)
Authors: Alcázar Purificación , Torres Carmen , De Linares Concepción , González-Minero Francisco José , Valenzuela Luis Ruiz , Picornell Antonio , Galán Carmen
Published: March 2024

Quercus species are the most frequent autochthonous arboreal taxa in the natural areas of Andalusia region (southern Spain). Due to their abundance and anemophilous character, high airborne pollen concentrations are detected in natural and urban areas of the region. Variations in its reproductive phenology can be considered an important bio-indicator regarding the impacts of climate change on vegetation in the Mediterranean region. This study aims to analyze trends in flowering patterns using airborne pollen concentrations from the capital cities of the 8 provinces of Andalusia region and to study its relationships with meteorological parameters and climate change over decades. Variations in time and intensity of flowering have been studied using different methods for defining the pollen season. This study demonstrates that for comparing results, it is relevant to choose the right definition to calculate the pollen season. The analysis of historical databases of Quercus airborne pollen in Andalusia showed variations in the floral phenology with an increase in the intensity of the pollen season throughout the studied period and an advance in the start trends due to the increase of temperature. Nevertheless, this increase might have been smoothed by the decrease of precipitations in some sampler locations, a limiting factor in the area. It has been also observed a delay in the end dates that caused a lengthening of the season. Climate change could be provoking longer and more intense pollen seasons that will lead to more intense and persistent symptoms in sensitive patients.
A hybrid Gaussian mixture/DSMC approach to study the Fourier thermal problem
Authors: Mohammad Nejad Shahin , Peters Frank A. , Nedea Silvia V. , Frijns Arjan J. H. , Smeulders David M. J.
Published: March 2024

In rarefied gas dynamics scattering kernels deserve special attention since they contain all the essential information about the effects of physical and chemical properties of the gas–solid surface interface on the gas scattering process. However, to study the impact of the gas–surface interactions on the large-scale behavior of fluid flows, these scattering kernels need to be integrated in larger-scale models like Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC). In this work, the Gaussian mixture (GM) model, an unsupervised machine learning approach, is utilized to establish a scattering kernel for monoatomic (Ar) and diatomic ($$\hbox {H}_{2}$$H2) gases directly from Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations data. The GM scattering kernel is coupled to a pure DSMC solver to study isothermal and non-isothermal rarefied gas flows in a system with two parallel walls. To fully examine the coupling mechanism between the GM scattering kernel and the DSMC approach, a one-to-one correspondence between MD and DSMC particles is considered here. Benchmarked by MD results, the performance of the GM-DSMC is assessed against the Cercignani–Lampis–Lord (CLL) kernel incorporated into DSMC simulation (CLL-DSMC). The comparison of various physical and stochastic parameters shows the better performance of the GM-DSMC approach. Especially for the diatomic system, the GM-DSMC outperforms the CLL-DSMC approach. The fundamental superiority of the GM-DSMC approach confirms its potential as a multi-scale simulation approach for accurately measuring flow field properties in systems with highly nonequilibrium conditions.
A comparative analysis of how to handle stockout scenarios: the impact of newsvendor’s risk attitude
Authors: Wood Doran , Çetinkaya Sıla
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate contrasting approaches for handling excess demand through the lens of a retailer (newsvendor) whose risk attitude (risk-neutral versus risk-averse) is modeled explicitly. We employ representative newsvendor models and provide comparison between two well-established stockout policies when demand exceeds supply. The “while supplies last” policy avoids the need for a secondary production order to satisfy the excess demand but faces potential opportunity cost through lost sales. Conversely, the “accepting backorders” policy relies on recourse production availability which is potentially costly but meets all levels of realized demand. Across distinct parameter classes, we incorporate comparison between the two policies in terms of financial metrics including expected profit and conditional value-at-risk criteria as well as metrics that relate to inventory availability and, hence, customer service, e.g., stockout probabilities and expected excess inventory. Powerful analytical results encompass both financial and inventory metrics and reveal that the outperforming policy is simply determined through relative underage cost values. That is, our insights indicate general advantages of accepting backorders when profit margins are sufficiently large and advantages of ignoring excess demand when profit margins are smaller. Although these extensive analytical takeaways hold in general, our numerical study reveals mean order quantity deviations (decision bias) in addition to which modeling approaches and counterpart optimal solutions maintain outperformance (resiliency) or lead to underperformance (sensitivity) when evaluated across all objective function criteria.
The Ws of Parental Help-Seeking: When, Where, and for What Do Parents Seek Help for Child Mental Health
Authors: Sawrikar Vilas , Van Dyke Cheryl , Smith Slep Amy M.
Published: March 2024

Parental help-seeking preferences may help explain the treatment gap in child mental health. This study examined mothers’ and fathers’ help-seeking behaviors for child mental health to further understand their individual preferences for treatment. A total of 394 mothers and fathers completed questionnaires assessing the types of help sought for mental health concerns for a target child (age 3–7 years), as well as measures representing illness profile, predisposing characteristics, and barriers/facilitators proposed to influence help-seeking. Parents often sought informal rather than professional help. Regression modelling indicated mothers’ different help-seeking behaviors were significantly associated with illness profile (marital quality, child mental health, parental education), predisposing factors (parental attributions, child age), and family income, while fathers’ different help-seeking behaviors were significantly associated with child demographics (age, gender). The results support expanding treatments into nonclinical settings and improving child mental health literacy to improve appropriate parental help-seeking for child mental health concerns.
Examining Patient- and Community-Level Factors Associated with Pediatric Mental Healthcare Access Within a Patient Navigation Program
Authors: Koob Caitlin , Stuenkel Mackenzie , Gagnon Ryan J. , Griffin Sarah F. , Sease Kerry
Published: March 2024

In 2021, national leaders in the United States declared a “national youth mental health crisis.” Still, only 1-in-4 children receive adequate mental healthcare access. Patient Navigator Programs (PNPs) can improve children’s referral-to-connection to mental health services. We examined patient- and community-level factors associated with pediatric mental healthcare access. Pediatric Support Services (PSS) is a PNP that triages mental and behavioral health referrals within a large health system in a southeastern state. This study analyzes PSS data from September 2017-March 2023 and Child Opportunity Index 2.0 state-normed zip-code level data to assess social drivers of health estimates. Structural equation modeling was conducted between patient- and community-level factors and connection to mental health services. Overall, 62.7% of children connected to mental health services since PSS’ inception. Regardless of SDOH, as children get older, they are more likely to connect with mental health services (β = .053, SE = .010, p < .001). Children with greater number of referral needs are more likely to connect with mental health services (β = .034, SE = .011, p = .002). Further, children who live in communities with higher opportunity levels are more likely to connect with mental health services (β = .016, SE = .008, p = .040), suggesting that children who live in low-income communities experience more barriers to mental healthcare. Social drivers may inform referral practices and tiered navigation support for optimal mental healthcare access among children. Further research should demonstrate the effectiveness of PNPs integrated within healthcare and community-based settings.
The Criminological Analysis of Communal Motives on Corrective Rape in African Communities: A Case Study of Pietermaritzburg, Kwa-Zulu Natal
Authors: Ngongoma Sindiswa , Maweni Vuyelwa
Published: March 2024

Corrective rape can be defined as a hate crime that entails the rape of any member of a group that does not conform to gender or sexual orientation norms, where the motive of the perpetrator is to “correct” the individual, fundamentally combining gender-based violence and homophobic violence. In South Africa, this type of discriminatory act is more common in rural townships, where women have less independence, education and support systems in place. It is estimated that at least 500 lesbians yearly are victims of corrective rape in South Africa; however, these statistics stand to be inaccurate as societal homophobia keeps many from reporting the crime. This study was completed to ascertain the role of communal motives in corrective rape in African communities, studying the community of Pietermaritzburg which is a city situated in Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN). A qualitative study was adopted which aimed to analyse and establish the communal motives of African communities in normalizing the practice of corrective rape as a cure to convert homosexuals into heterosexuals. The study took place in the gay–lesbian network centre in Pietermaritzburg where data were gathered from the LGBTIAQ community. The objectives of the study were to assess the nature of the crime, to assess the influence of culture on the normalization of corrective rape as a cure for same-sex sexual attractions, to determine the effects of corrective rape on the LGBTI community, to establish the causes of corrective rape in the community and to determine if the rural community is enlightened about the rights of the LGBTIAQ community. The study also makes use of theoretical framework, including the victim precipitation theory, lifestyle exposure theory and social learning theory to explain and argue the research problem.
Evidence-Based Program Implementation Variability in New Contexts: The Head Start REDI Program
Authors: Welsh Janet , Chilenski Sarah Meyer , Daniels Ann-Michelle , Letcher Amber , Garcia Aileen
Published: March 2024

This study involved a pilot implementation of an evidence based school readiness intervention in new community contexts. The Head Start Research Based, Developmentally Informed (REDI) program was implemented in preschools on and near a Native American reservation with both indigenous and non-indigenous students and teachers. The REDI curriculum involved 5 subcomponents targeting children’s literacy skills and social-emotional development. Teachers were provided with inperson and on-line training and in-person implementation support from a REDI coach. Implementation fidelity included ratings of of curriculum dosage and child engagement, as well as coach ratings of teaching quality using a modified version of the Classroom Assessment Scoring Scale (CLASS). Teachers indicated which adaptations they made to the curriculum and the reasons for these adaptations. Teachers also completed qualitative, post-implementation interviews to obtain their impressions of REDI and the need for planned modifications in their context. Analyses included measures of implementation fidelity and qualitative evaluation of adaptations. Results indicated that teachers found the REDI program both feasible and helpful for their students. Suggestions for planned adaptations included more STEM activities and the freedom to choose the dialogic reading books. Many spontaneous adaptations were noted. Teachers indicated that pragmatic issues, such as lack of time, were the main reasons for adapting the program, and deletions and substitutions of curricular activities were the most common types of changes. Implementation of program subcomponents improved gradually over the course of the school year. Some subcomponents were more likely to be adapted than others.
A long-term shift to include students’ first language in the mathematics teaching practice: socialization events and learning opportunities
Authors: Aminifar Elahe , Malaki Mohsen , Ryan Ulrika , Mesgarani Hamid
Published: March 2024

The notion of multilingual students’ first language has been advocated as a resource in mathematics learning for some time. However, few studies have investigated how implementing students’ L1 in the teaching practice impacts multilingual students’ mathematics learning opportunities. Based on a 9-month-long ethnographic study conducted in Iran, we investigate what a long-term shift from mathematics teaching in the language of instruction (Persian) to mathematics teaching that includes students’ first language (Turkish) may mean in terms of learning opportunities. In language positive classrooms, students’ socialization into mathematics and language includes using students’ first languages and paying explicit attention to different aspects of language use in mathematics. Among other things, socialization events provide possibilities to share explanations of mathematical thinking. The results of this study suggest that using students’ first languages may reinforce other language positive socialization events and provide mathematics learning opportunities during individual assignment activities. Furthermore, the results suggest that the conceived value of mathematics education in the local communities changed with the introduction of students’ L1 in the teaching practice. Consequently, this study indicates that using students’ first languages in mathematics classrooms may be a key issue in multilingual contexts.
Role of three-dimensional vortex motions on horizontal eddies in an open-channel cavity
Authors: Dong Wenhao , Uchida Tatsuhiko
Published: March 2024

Lateral cavities are a popular object of study in hydraulic research as they are widely found in rivers and hydraulic facilities and significantly impact flow patterns, sediment transport, and water quality in aquatic ecosystems. While the effects of open-channel cavities on various aspects including characteristics of three-dimensional structures have been extensively studied, the role of vertical flow structures in the cavity has not been focused on. This study examines the relationship between the shallowness parameter and the three-dimensional flow effects on the dynamics of an open-channel lateral cavity flow with horizontal vortex motion, comparing the conventional two-dimensional model (2DC), advanced depth-integrated models including general bottom velocity calculation method (GBVC) with the ability to consider vertical flow structures, simplified bottom velocity calculation method with the shallow water assumption (SBVC), a three-dimensional model (3DC), and experimental data. The comparison results demonstrate that the three-dimensional flow effect significantly impacts the velocity distribution and vortex evolution in the cavity. The GBVC model demonstrates a good agreement with the flow patterns by the 3DC model and experimental results in the cavity, whereas the 2DC and SBVC models are unsuitable for deep-water conditions.
Responding to the UN sustainability goals in transdisciplinary partnership through network action learning
Authors: Dreyer-Gibney Katrin , Coughlan Paul , Coghlan David , Wu Szu-Hsin , Bello-Dambatta Aisha , Dallison Richard , McNabola Aonghus , Novara Daniele , Rafique Annum , Schestak Isabel , Spriet Jan , Walker Nathan , Williams Prysor
Published: March 2024

The global water crisis, an enormous concern according to the World Economic Forum, poses a significant challenge to long-term sustainability, exacerbated by the high energy demand associated with water supply and treatment. As the renewable energy sector grows, the need for green technologies to support the water-energy nexus becomes evident. However, mere technological advancements are insufficient to address complex water-related challenges. This paper presents a transdisciplinary collaborative effort involving engineers, geographers, management researchers, and environmentalists working with practitioners in a cross-border network. The study explores through action learning research how, in a transdisciplinary partnership, network action learning influences the exploration and implementation of novel green technology and the development of innovation capabilities. The research is structured around three themes: green technology platforms, policy support and guidance, and dissemination and collaboration. It identifies the factors impacting technology exploration and application and how concurrently green innovation capabilities are developed. The study emphasizes the significance of transdisciplinary collaboration and offers valuable insights into addressing UN Sustainability Goals related to clean water, sustainable industry, and partnerships. It contributes to innovation capability theory and provides practical guidance to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to address the water-energy crisis and achieve sustainable development.
The impact of agriculture, energy consumption and economic growth on ecological footprint: testing the agriculture-induced EKC for Türkiye
Authors: Boluk Gulden , Karaman Suleyman
Published: March 2024

The main purpose of the current study is to empirically analyze the impact of agriculture, energy consumption, and economic growth on environmental degradation in Türkiye for the period of 1968–2020. Against the backdrop, we tested agriculture-induced EKC hypothesis employing Ecological Footprint (EFP) instead of emissions because EFP better represents the sustainability. Our results from ARDL model indicate the validation of the EKC hypothesis for Türkiye. Hence environmental deterioration worsens with economic growth and improves with higher level of GDP. Moreover, increase in both the agricultural value added per capita and energy use per capita increases the EFP per capita. In other words, agricultural production, and energy usage are important drivers for environmental quality. The causality results show the presence of growth hypothesis between agriculture and GDP and energy-EFP for Türkiye. Therefore, government should envisage the policies towards sustainable economic growth as discussed under the conclusion part.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): Organizational Control and Justice Perspectives
Authors: Lam Helen , Beckman Terry , Harcourt Mark , Shanmugam Sandra
Published: March 2024

Bring your Own Device (BYOD) is an increasingly popular phenomenon at work, with several potential benefits (e.g., cost reduction, convenience and flexibility) and concerns (e.g., security risk, blurring of work-life boundary, and privacy infringement). Yet, systematic research incorporating theoretical perspectives on BYOD has been limited. This paper analyzes BYOD by integrating organizational control and justice frameworks. For control, approaches advanced by Hopwood, Ouchi and Edwards were adopted, covering simple control, administrative/bureaucratic control, technical/technological control, social control, and self control. The justice framework includes both distributive and procedural fairness. It is posited that justice/fairness mediates the effects of the control mechanisms. Practices under various controls that are seen as fair or unfair are discussed and recommendations provided.
Fertilisation strategies and their influence on nutrient flows in organic apple orchards
Authors: Lepp Birgit , Zikeli Sabine , Hartung Jens , Möller Kurt
Published: March 2024

In organic fruit production, permitted fertilisers contain multiple nutrients with stoichiometries differing from the nutrient offtakes of the fruit trees. Furthermore, some pesticides contain nutrients resulting in additional inputs. These conditions may cause unbalanced nutrient supplies and thereby influence the long-term sustainability of the system. An analysis of nutrient management practices in organic apple farms was conducted in three Southern and one Northern German apple-growing region. Data on nutrient inputs (via fertilisers and pesticides) and outputs (via fruit) per orchard were collected along with soil samples from up to five orchards per farm on 19 farms. On average, farmers fertilised 37 kg N and harvested 23 Mg apples per ha and year. Nutrient budgets showed imbalances for N (+ 25 kg ha−1 year−1), P (+ 3 kg), K (− 4 kg), Ca (+ 37 kg), Mg (+ 4 kg), S (+ 53 kg), Na (+ 4 kg) and Cl (+ 3 kg). Base fertilisers like compost or manure contributed to higher nutrient inputs due to a larger P and K-to-N-ratio. Commercial organic fertilisers such as keratins or vinasse contained much lower ratios. The main S input sources were pesticides (46 kg). N inputs by base (p = 0.06) and commercial (p = 0.37) fertilisers had no significant effect on the yield. Balanced nutrition can best be achieved by applying a combination of 20% of the total N demand via base fertilisers, complemented with commercial fertilisers with low element-to-N-ratios (e. g. keratin fertilisers, vinasse or biological N2 fixation). No correlation was found between soil nutrient status and nutrient budgets. Site conditions and internal field nutrient flows (transfer of the inter-row biomass via mulching into the tree row) had a stronger influence on the soil nutrient content than fertilisation strategy. In addition, fruit orchards showed a spatial differentiation of soil nutrient contents. Elevated P and K contents above the recommended range in the tree row were found in 67% of the orchards, while tendencies of depletion were found in the inter-row area. Mulching schemes which transfer biomass from the inter-row area to the tree row need to be adapted to this condition.
New perspectives in the echocardiographic hemodynamics multiparametric assessment of patients with heart failure
Authors: Lisi Matteo , Luisi Giovanni Andrea , Pastore Maria Concetta , Mandoli Giulia Elena , Benfari Giovanni , Ilardi Federica , Malagoli Alessandro , Sperlongano Simona , Henein Michael Y. , Cameli Matteo , D’Andrea Antonello
Published: March 2024

International Guidelines consider left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) as an important parameter to categorize patients with heart failure (HF) and to define recommended treatments in clinical practice. However, LVEF has some technical and clinical limitations, being derived from geometric assumptions and is unable to evaluate intrinsic myocardial function and LV filling pressure (LVFP). Moreover, it has been shown to fail to predict clinical outcome in patients with end-stage HF. The analysis of LV antegrade flow derived from pulsed-wave Doppler (stroke volume index, stroke distance, cardiac output, and cardiac index) and non-invasive evaluation of LVFP have demonstrated some advantages and prognostic implications in HF patients. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is able to unmask intrinsic myocardial systolic dysfunction in HF patients, particularly in those with LV preserved EF, hence allowing analysis of LV, right ventricular and left atrial (LA) intrinsic myocardial function (global peak atrial LS, (PALS)). Global PALS has been proven a reliable index of LVFP which could fill the gaps “gray zone” in the previous Guidelines algorithm for the assessment of LV diastolic dysfunction and LVFP, being added to the latest European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging Consensus document for the use of multimodality imaging in evaluating HFpEF. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of the hemodynamics multiparametric approach of assessing myocardial function (from LVFP to stroke volume) in patients with HF, thus overcoming the limitations of LVEF.
Effects of oligotrophication and Dreissena littoral-pelagic coupling on littoral invertebrate and fish communities: insights from stable isotopes of archived samples
Authors: Sabel Maike , Yohannes Elizabeth , Straile Dietmar , Rothhaupt Karl-Otto
Published: March 2024

Changing nutrient concentrations and introduction of non-native species affect the energy and nutrient fluxes in aquatic ecosystems. As a response, invertebrate communities could be altered, and ‘novel’ trophic communities could develop. Lake Constance (Europe) experienced pronounced nutrient variation caused by cultural eutrophication (prior 1980s) and oligotrophication (post-1980) and experienced many neobiota invasions. We used archived samples to investigate the impact of oligotrophication and invasive species on carbon and nitrogen isotope signatures of littoral macroinvertebrates during spring and autumn periods from 2000 to 2015 and of littoral fish species in 2018. Isotopic signatures of invertebrate and fish species were in the same range and showed similar seasonal differences and clear patterns in respect to littoral vs pelagic food sources and trophic level. Oligotrophication did not strongly alter isotopic values and only δ15N values of invertebrates declined weakly with oligotrophication. In contrast, interannual variability of stable isotope signatures was related to abundances of the invasive Dreissena polymorpha suggesting interannual differences in the importance of benthic-pelagic coupling due to Dreissena pseudofaeces for the nutrition of littoral invertebrates. This study illustrates how stored samples can be used to detect the importance of oligotrophication and benthic-pelagic coupling on the stable isotope signatures of a benthic community.