bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Olive Mill Wastewaters Spreading on Agricultural Land: Results and Practical Management
Authors: Abdennbi Siwar , Gargouri Kamel , Abichou Mounir , Rhouma Ali , Magdich Salwa , Soua Nabil , Jribi Anoir , Jilani Saïd , Rouina Béchir
Published: May 2024

Rich in water (88 to 95%), organic matter (6 to 14%) and mineral matter (1.5 to 4%), the olive mill wastewater or liquid effluent from the olive processing industry represents a certain fertilizer source. Four treatments (Control, 50, 100 and 200 m3 ha-1 of OMWW) with an annual spreading of fresh OMWW, are applied to evaluate the effects of direct spreading of this by-product on the soil and the plant. From the first application, the level of organic matter changed significantly compared to the control soil without OMWW. In fact, three months after spreading, the respective levels of this substance increased from 0.42% in the control plot, to 0.91%, 1.02% and 1.47% respectively, for the spreading doses of 50, 100 or 200 m3 ha-1. After several years, these same rates are only 0.84%, 0.91% and 0.95% for the respective doses of 50, 100 and 200 m3 ha-1, indicating an intense activity of mineralization of organic matter under the effect of the soil microflora whose number has increased. The improvement in mineral status consequently improved the growth of olive groves with application doses of 50 and 100 m3 ha-1. A decline in olive production was recorded with the dose 200 m3 ha-1, which could be explained by the inhibitory effect probably resulting from a slight toxic action of polyphenols accumulated in the soil. Finally, it should be noted that the results of this research led to the development of Decree No. 1308/2013 of February 26, 2013, authorizing the spreading of 50 m3 ha 1 of fresh vegetable water.
Public Image and Job Performance of Police Personnel as Mediated by Perception of Neighborhood Crime
Authors: Alamban Ariel , Nabe Nestor , Sumuob Rodrigo
Published: May 2024

The main purpose of this study was to determine the public image and job performance of police personnel as mediated by perception of neighborhood crime using a mediation model of Baron and Kenny. The research was done through non-experimental quantitative research design utilizing descriptive-correlational technique. Mean, Pearson r, multiple regression, and Medgraph with Sobel z-test were the statistical tools used. The research also used adapted questionnaires that were modified to suit the current study. Data was generated through stratified random sampling technique with 300 adult residents in Davao City as the respondents. The research was conducted through e-survey using Google form to gather the data. Based on the findings of the study, there is no significant relationship between public image and job performance of police personnel, nor between perception of neighborhood crime and job performance, but there is a significant relationship between perception of neighborhood crime and public image of the police. It was also revealed that there is a partial mediating effect of perception of neighborhood crime on the relationship between public image and job performance of police personnel. The result implies that part of the independent variable is intervened by the mediating variable, but other parts are either direct or mediated by other variables that are not included in the model.
West African Monsoon System’s Responses to Global Ocean–Regional Atmosphere Coupling
Authors: Tamoffo Alain T. , Weber Torsten , Cabos William , Monerie Paul-Arthur , Cook Kerry H. , Sein Dmitry V. , Dosio Alessandro , Klutse Nana A. B. , Akinsanola Akintomide A. , Jacob Daniela
Published: May 2024

This study explores the added value (AV) of a regional Earth system model (ESM) compared to an atmosphere-only regional climate model (RCM) in simulating West African monsoon (WAM) rainfall. The primary goals are to foster discussions on the suitability of coupled RCMs for WAM projections and deepen our understanding of ocean–atmosphere coupling’s influence on the WAM system. The study employs results from dynamical downscaling of the ERA-Interim reanalysis and Max Plank Institute ESM, low resolution (MPI-ESM-LR), by two RCMs, atmosphere only (REMO) and REMO coupled with Max Planck Institute Ocean Model (MPIOM) (ROM), at ∼25-km horizontal resolution. Results show that in regions distant from coupling domain boundaries such as West Africa (WA), constraint conditions from ERA-Interim are more beneficial than coupling effects. REMO, reliant on oceanic sea surface temperatures (SSTs) from observations and influenced by ERA-Interim, is biased under coupling conditions, although coupling offers potential advantages in representing heat and mass fluxes. Contrastingly, as intended, coupling improves SSTs and monsoon fluxes’ relationships under ESM-forced conditions. In this latter case, the coupling features a dipole-like spatial structure of AV, improving precipitation over the Guinea Coast but degrading precipitation over half of the Sahel. Our extensive examination of physical processes and mechanisms underpinning the WAM system supports the plausibility of AV. Additionally, we found that the monsoonal dynamics over the ocean respond to convective activity, with the Sahara–Sahel surface temperature gradient serving as the maintenance mechanism. While further efforts are needed to enhance the coupled RCM, we advocate for its use in the context of WAM rainfall forecasts and projections.
An Abdominal Seat Belt Sign is Associated With Similar Incidence of Hollow Viscus Injury but Increased In-Hospital Mortality in Older Adult Trauma Patients: A PCSA Multicenter Study
Authors: Sullivan Brittany G. , Delaplain Patrick T. , Manasa Morgan , Tay-Lasso Erika , Biffl Walter L. , Schaffer Kathryn B. , Sundel Margaret , Behdin Samar , Ghneim Mira , Costantini Todd W. , Santorelli Jarrett E. , Switzer Emily , Schellenberg Morgan , Keeley Jessica A. , Kim Dennis Y. , Wang Andrew , Dhillon Navpreet K. , Patel Deven , Campion Eric M. , Robinson Caitlin K. , Kartiko Susan , Quintana Megan T. , Estroff Jordan M. , Kirby Katharine A. , Nahmias Jeffry
Published: May 2024

Background

The abdominal seat belt sign (SBS) is associated with an increased risk of hollow viscus injury (HVI). Older age is associated with worse outcomes in trauma patients. Thus, older trauma patients ≥65 years of age (OTPs) may be at an increased risk of HVI with abdominal SBS. Therefore, we hypothesized an increased incidence of HVI and mortality for OTPs vs younger trauma patients (YTPs) with abdominal SBS.

Study Design

This post hoc analysis of a multi-institutional, prospective, observational study (8/2020-10/2021) included patients >18 years old with an abdominal SBS who underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT) imaging. Older trauma patients were compared to YTPs (18-64 years old) with bivariate analyses.

Results

Of the 754 patients included in this study from nine level-1 trauma centers, there were 110 (14.6%) OTPs and 644 (85.4%) YTPs. Older trauma patients were older (mean 75.3 vs 35.8 years old, P < .01) and had a higher mean Injury Severity Score (10.8 vs 9.0, P = .02). However, YTPs had an increased abdominal abbreviated-injury scale score (2.01 vs 1.63, P = .02). On CT imaging, OTPs less commonly had intraabdominal free fluid (21.7% vs 11.9%, P = .02) despite a similar rate of abdominal soft tissue contusion ( P > .05). Older trauma patients also had a statistically similar rate of HVI vs YTPs (5.5% vs 9.8%, P = .15). Despite this, OTPs had increased mortality (5.5% vs 1.1%, P < .01) and length of stay (LOS) (5.9 vs 4.9 days P < .01).

Conclusion

Despite a similar rate of HVI, OTPs with an abdominal SBS had an increased rate of mortality and LOS. This suggests the need for heightened vigilance when caring for OTPs with abdominal SBS.
The Fight for the Right to Repair
Authors: Kramer Jacob A. , Lechner Matthew
Published: May 2024

For more than two decades, a burgeoning “right-to-repair” movement has been underway in the United States, evolving from a nascent effort to democratize automobile repair into a cultural and legal force with ramifications in numerous industries. At the highest level, the right-to-repair movement aims to require manufacturers to provide consumers and independent repair providers with replacement parts, repair manuals, and other such materials used to fix products they own. Although activists have lobbied for the right to repair automobiles since at least 2001, right-to-repair legislation began to gain momentum over the past decade and has expanded from automobiles to other consumer goods, including cell phones, appliances, and other electronic devices, as well as agricultural and medical equipment.
Il cuore oltre l’ostacolo. La “via italiana” alla nuova fenomenologia e una riconsiderazione di Marino Moretti (1885–1979)
Authors: Sartori Andrea
Published: May 2024

Nel contesto dell’attuale dibattito su post-truth ed epistemic crisis, l’ affect può svolgere il ruolo di “ancora di salvataggio” del vero e dell’io. Esso, tuttavia, non deve essere inteso in chiave esclusivamente psicologica, ma come luogo di negoziazione critica e riflessiva dei confini che regolano i rapporti tra la sfera soggettiva e quella oggettiva dell’esperienza. Da qualche anno, infatti, il filosofo italiano Tonino Griffero svolge, a partire da una riconsiderazione della “nuova fenomenologia” di Hermann Schmitz, la messa a punto del concetto spaziale di “atmosfera” per combinarlo con quello di affect. Il tentativo di Griffero è proprio di dire, con quel grado di precisione che è concessa, la vaghezza del vero e del reale lasciataci in eredità dal post-moderno, in modo da superane l’ impasse, di cui post-truth ed epistemic crisis sono l’esito più evidente. Non è un caso che uno scrittore e poeta italiano come Marino Moretti, solitamente associato alla descrizione di “atmosfere” crepuscolari, possa oggi essere letto in una nuova chiave, non sentimentale né esclusivamente psicologica (come è accaduto, ad esempio, anche per Amelia Rosselli), ovvero in una maniera che lo collochi non ai margini del decadentismo europeo, ma sul crinale di una crisi modernista della modernità (Luigi Pirandello, Aldo Palazzeschi), che ha più d’una somiglianza con quella che attraversiamo oggi.
An Exploration of the Relationship Between Public Infrastructure and Economic Growth in Northeast India: A Panel Data Approach
Authors: Das Nihaljyoti , Dutta Parag
Published: May 2024

In this article, we have used a panel data approach to explore the relationship between public infrastructure and economic growth in Northeast India using data from all eight states from 2004–05 to 2018–19. The findings reveal that all public infrastructures do not contribute productively to economic growth. Certain infrastructure sectors, such as agriculture-related and healthcare-related infrastructure, affect the growth prospects of the northeastern region of India. One plausible reason could be the current level of some public infrastructure, which is not developed sufficiently enough. Therefore, India must address the infrastructural gap in its northeastern region in order to leverage the region’s trade potential and establish it as the country’s growth engine. To meet the infrastructure demand with limited fiscal space, the government needs to foster an environment that encourages public–private partnerships in infrastructure. Sharing benefits with private participation could be another way to attract private investment in the infrastructure sector of the region.

JEL Codes: C23, H54, O47, R53
Irreconcilable Differences? NATO's Response to Russian Aggression Against Ukraine
Authors: Gheciu Alexandra , von Hlatky Stéfanie
Published: May 2024

With Russia's full-spectrum war in Ukraine, NATO is rethinking its force posture and responding in ways that are consistent with its norms and identity as an alliance. While the war has been framed by some as a vindication of structural realism, we instead revisit constructivist arguments about security communities. This literature, which foregrounds learning and socialization processes, advanced scholarly and policy debates from NATO enlargement to defence sector reform. By contrast, how security communities engage with adversaries has received less attention. Noting the obvious balancing dynamics on display, we emphasize how threats take on particular meanings, which shape the types of military options considered. We also provide an explanation for NATO's resilience in the face of this external shock. Alliance disunity notwithstanding, we argue that collective defence is being redefined in real time, through dynamics that are not exclusively bound by a narrow focus on the military threat posed by Russia.
Double Jeopardy and Successive Prosecutions Based on the Same Prohibited Conduct: Equivalence of Approaches to Determining the Same Offence Dilemma in Comparative Perspective
Authors: Coffey Ger
Published: May 2024

Post-acquittal retrials for substantially the same offence are possible in jurisdictions that have provided statutory modifications to the common law double jeopardy principle. The pleas in bar of prosecution, autrefois acquit (previously acquitted) and autrefois convict (previously convicted), are predicated on a final verdict of acquittal or conviction by a court of competent criminal jurisdiction for substantially the same offence. Differentiating similarities between the increasing volume of overlapping offences is the most litigated aspect of the double jeopardy principle. Seminal common law jurisdictions have adopted variations of the same elements approach that examines whether two or more offences arising out of the same prohibited conduct are the same based on an assessment of whether there is an element in one offence not in the comparable offence. Through doctrinal analysis of superior court jurisprudence in the Unites States, England and Wales, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, this article evaluates judicial formulations for determining the sameness of offences in comparative perspective. While the analysis is intrinsic to each jurisdiction, judicial formulations may nonetheless shed light on similar issues coming before courts of criminal justice in cognate jurisdictions.
Chinese People’s Child Bearing and Rearing Beliefs: The Interplay Between Confucianism and Neoliberalism
Authors: Liu Shuning , Wang Hongli
Published: May 2024

Previous research on Chinese people’s child bearing and rearing beliefs (CBRBs) has overwhelmingly focused on how Chinese view specific issues about child bearing and rearing and shown Confucian and neoliberal perspectives on these issues. However, limited studies have adopted a holistic view to analyze Chinese people’s CBRBs and explored the influence of the interplay between Confucianism and neoliberalism on their CBRBs comprehensively. This study aimed to bridge this gap by examining 2,590 pieces of posts (microblogs published by users) containing the hashtag “#The proper beliefs about child bearing and rearing#” on Weibo, one of the most popular social media sites in China. Corpus analysis and reflexive thematic analysis methods were used to quantitatively and qualitatively analyze the data, and five themes with various subthemes about Chinese people’s CBRBs were generated. This study uncovered that the three themes, namely, Parenthood Is Optional, How to Raise Children and Rewards of Child Bearing and Rearing, reflect an integration of Confucianism and neoliberalism, while Blind Compliance (to Parents’ Demands) Is Not Advisable and Costliness to Women show a neoliberal perspective. The findings enhance the understanding of Chinese people’s CBRBs and the influence of the interplay between Confucian and neoliberal cultures on their CBRBs, and provide insight for all concerned to improve fertility and health care programs.
Men’s Suicide in Bangladesh: Impressions From the Socio-Ecological System Theory
Authors: Rahman Khan Anisur , Shimul S. M. Anowarul Kayes
Published: May 2024

Suicide is a multilayered social behaviour containing overlapping components from individual to social spheres. This article discusses the findings of the context of male suicide in Bangladesh based on Bronfenbrenner’s socio-ecological theory. The socio-ecological perspective allows to determine the risk factors of suicide at multiple levels. Fifteen male suicide cases were purposively selected from several rural areas of the Jhenaidah district which is known for high rates of suicide. Qualitative in-depth interviews (three for each case) with persons who are significant others to the deceased delineate the interactive context of suicide. While the analysis deductively hinges on four major themes (e.g., individual/micro, interpersonal/meso, community/exo, and societal/macro factors) in consonance with socio-ecological theory, ten sub-themes were inductively identified from the intriguing meanings of the interviews. Considering the integrative nature of suicide, the study underscores the necessity to introduce a multi-sectoral approach to effectively prevent suicide in Bangladesh.
3D simulation of warp knitted boa for visual and quicker design
Authors: Dong Zhijia , liu Haisang , Jiang Gaoming , Ma Pibo
Published: May 2024

Recent stitch-based simulation methods permit effective and realistic simulation for the planar structure of warp-knitted fabrics. However, simulating the warp-knitted fully formed jacquard fabric with a specific shape remains a challenge. Characteristics of diversity and complexity of this kind of fabric greatly raise the simulation difficulty. We propose a new modeling and simulation method based on the mesh model with complex shapes. We start from the analysis of the double needle bed warp-knitting technique, and establish a three-dimensional fabric mesh model, producing a finer stitch placement on a double needle bed knitted structure. Due to the deformation date derived from the jacquard pattern, stitches are placed at the actual locations. The used stitches forming the fully formed products are rendered according to the jacquard pattern. Using the two-dimensional plates and corresponding three-dimensional objects as input models to define the shape of the warp-knitted products, stitches are transferred from two to three-dimensional model objects by spatial mapping. The interface of our modeling system allows for designing complex jacquard patterns and selecting specific models for warp-knitted products. The method we propose leads to a visible design process with results visualization, which is convenient for designers to modify the knitting parameters covering knitting information and jacquard pattern before the product is knitted. The simulation method can be applied to the rapid design of the warp-knitted boa, which can reduce duplicate sampling, shorten the design process, and save raw material costs. Further research will be carried out in the future to improve this simulation method.
A Citizens’ Wānanga on Alcohol Policy in Aotearoa New Zealand: An Essay on Theoretical Underpinnings and Practical Considerations
Authors: Sutcliffe Oliver , Crossin Rose , Sellman J. Douglas
Published: May 2024

Alcohol use is a major determinant of health at both an individual and societal level. In New Zealand alcohol is legal and highly commercialized. Its harms are pervasive and are inadequately managed by current alcohol policy. However, contemporary methods for policy reform have also proven ineffective, and so effective alcohol regulation has been repeatedly thwarted. This essay first outlines the current state of regulatory failure and establishes the need for reform, before proposing citizens’ assemblies as a solution to this public health conundrum. These are novel democratic institutions designed to secure an informed and representative public voice as the central determinant of policy. This essay contends that an appropriately designed citizens’ assembly is likely to lead to alcohol policy which is more informed, evidence-based, and democratically accountable than current methods. Such an assembly would also be consistent with the Treaty of Waitangi principles and may assist in reducing alcohol-related inequities for Māori. Finally, in discussing such an assembly, this essay presents an internationally applicable model which could be employed for a range of other drug policy issues.
A Problem in the Huntingtonian Universe: The Military Side of the Gap
Authors: Stanar Dragan
Published: May 2024

This article investigates the military side of the civil–military value gap in societies with fully professionalized armed forces. The “Huntingtonian Universe” is a paradigm of civil–military relations in which isolation and alienation of armed forces are inevitable once the military becomes separated not just from politics but from the entire political realm by its full professionalization. It is argued that the emergence of a value gap, a sentiment of moral superiority, and contempt toward civilian society is less probable in societies which rely on mandatory military service, as conscription preserves the necessary link between the military and the political realm by keeping the military profession in constant contact with society via conscripts, that is, “temporary soldiers.” Article offers a potential solution for saving the “Huntingtonian Universe” and the concept of objective control of the military by asserting that the optimal way of solving the problem of civil–military value gap is reinstating conscription along with meaningful changes in military education.
Participatory Food Provisioning via Emerging Technologies: Revisiting Prosumption and Value Creation Beyond the Anthropocene
Authors: Ulusoy Emre , Vicdan Handan , Ekici Ahmet , Tillotson Jack S. , Hong Soonkwan , Mimoun Laetitia
Published: May 2024

This commentary offers a timely exploration of participatory food provisioning via emerging food technologies. Through an in-depth analysis of case studies of these technologies, we elucidate the changing nature of prosumption in orchestrating food market provisioning. Our investigation highlights a shift toward a non-anthropocentric vision of market provisioning, where value creation transcends human-centered paradigms to include alliances between humans, technology, and nature. By articulating the nuanced dynamics and outcomes of these alliances in the food market, we propose a reimagined perspective on value creation, urging macromarketing scholars to consider the broader implications of technology-driven, participatory food systems. Ultimately, we emphasize the necessity of integrating human and non-human stakeholders in the discourse on value creation, and challenge conventional notions of control, democratization, and sociality within prevailing food-provisioning systems.
Laparoscopic resection of a giant choledochal cyst: A rare case report
Authors: Liang Wenxiang , Zhou Jiajie , Yuan Hankun , Tan Xijuan , Ma Yufei , You Shenglin , Lu Yuan , Huang Ying , Wang Jianchu
Published: May 2024

Giant choledochal cysts are rare, and so little data exist on the best surgical treatment method. We present here, a case of a giant choledochal cyst that was successfully excised by laparoscopic resection. A 37-year-old female presented with right upper abdominal pain and mild jaundice. On examination she had a right upper abdominal mass which on imaging was observed to be a giant choledochal cyst of type IVa, measuring approximately 129 mm × 190 mm. Her blood test results showed abnormal liver function. We successfully performed laparoscopic resection of the cyst, the patient recovered well and was discharged from hospital eight days post-operation without any complications. We wish to share the experience of this rare case and provide some clinical basis for future diagnosis and use of laparoscopic resection in the treatment of giant choledochal cysts.
Mimickers of autoimmune encephalitis: a literature review
Authors: Alshutaihi Mohamad Sami , Mazketly Muhammad , Tabbakh Mohannad , Akkash Nour , Bahro Tuqa , Alsaman Muhamad Zakaria Brimo
Published: May 2024

Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) is a rapid, progressive neurological disorder characterized by nervous system inflammation. While the Graus criteria are the best known criteria for AIE diagnosis, other differential diagnoses meeting the Graus criteria must be considered before management. This narrative review discusses the most common etiologies that resemble AIE. We suggest routine exclusion of mimickers meeting the Graus criteria before confirming an AIE diagnosis. We reviewed 28 studies including 356 patients. The main initial diagnosis was AIE, then paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis and anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis. Only 194 patients met the possible Graus criteria. The most frequent conditions among the total population were dementia, other neurodegenerative diseases, and psychiatric and functional neurological disorders. AIE is often misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary treatment. Despite publication of the Graus criteria, medical cases mimicking this condition are being published. Many neurological diseases entering the differential diagnosis of AIE could be excluded through a detailed history, neurological examination, laboratory analysis, and other investigations, including cerebrospinal fluid and brain magnetic resonance imaging. However, some differential diagnoses complied with the possible Graus criteria, with some having concurrent antineuronal antibodies, which were considered true mimickers. AIE diagnosis suspicion is primarily clinical, but a definitive diagnosis requires various diagnostic tools.
Formation cause and oxidation behaviour of surface crack on the hot-rolled thick plate of high strength low alloy steel
Authors: Shen Wenjun , Cheng Guoguang , Zhang Chuangju , Pan Shisong , Dai Lin , Liu Xiaofeng
Published: May 2024

The formation causes and oxidation behaviour of two types of small-sized and irregular morphological surface cracks on S355 hot-rolled thick plate were investigated. The study employed surface pickling, microstructure analysis and inclusion observation to characterise the cracks. It was observed that the surface morphology of two types of cracks exhibited similarities, while their subsurface morphology differed. The Type-A cracks displayed a bulge shape with a rounded tail, while the Type-B cracks had a V-shaped morphology with a slender tail. The Type-A cracks predominantly consisted of FeO. The surface part of the Type-B cracks contained unusual large-sized carbon particles and Al2O3 inclusions, and the iron oxides within the subsurface part followed the sequence of FeO–Fe2O3–Fe from the centre of the cracks to the steel matrix. It was observed that the Type-A cracks originated from subsurface bubbles in the continuous casting slab, which deformed and developed into surface cracks during the rolling process. The iron oxide inside these cracks was formed through a single oxidation process, and the bulge shape in the subsurface part was a distinguishing characteristic. The Type-B cracks were attributed to surface microcracks on the continuous casting slab, which were linked to the presence of unusual large-sized inclusions. The iron oxides within these cracks underwent two oxidation processes. The subsurface morphology and oxide characteristics are the significant features to identify these small-sized and irregular morphological cracks.
Study on coke properties in deadman of blast furnace
Authors: Liu Peng-bo , Cheng Shu-sen , Cheng Xiao-man , Liu Zhao
Published: May 2024

The coke particle size and porosity of the deadman can significantly influence the distribution of molten iron flow velocity in the hearth as well as carbon brick erosion. In this study, coke samples were collected from the deadman after a 1780 m3 blast furnace was shut down. The particle size, mechanical strength, microstructure, chemical composition, and degree of graphitisation of coke were analysed alongside the voidage distribution of the deadman. The average particle size and mechanical strength of coke gradually decreased along the vertical axis of the deadman. The average particle sizes of coke at the top and bottom of the deadman were 28.15 mm and 25.04 mm, respectively. The M25 of the coke at the top and bottom of the deadman were 87.9% and 79.1%, respectively. The basicity of the slag entering the coke was lower than that of the original slag due to alterations in its composition caused by the ash content in coke, resulting in a reduction in its basicity. The graphitisation degree of coke gradually increased from the top to the bottom of the deadman. The voidage of the deadman progressively decreases in a downward direction. At distances of 4.5 m and 1.5 m from the hearth bottom, the voidages in the central zone of the deadman were 36% and 27%, respectively. These results deepen our understanding of coke in the deadman.
Medially Positioned Single Mucoperiosteal Flap With and Without Allograft Membrane for Repair of Congenital Cleft Palate in 4 Dogs
Authors: Haggerty Kevin , Hiscox Lorraine , Lewis John
Published: May 2024

Congenital cleft of the secondary palate occurs when there is failure of one or both maxillary processes to fuse with the nasal septum during embryonic development. Palatal cleft severity can range from a simple focal fissure of the caudal soft palate to full-thickness defects of varied widths involving the entire soft and hard palate. A novel staged medially positioned single mucoperiosteal flap technique in 4 canine patients is reported. This flap technique is based on the major palatine and infraorbital arteries with strategic extractions of maxillary teeth and placement of allograft membrane in 3 of 4 cases for treatment of clefts wider than may be repaired effectively by traditional methods.
A Combined Ventral Extraoral and Intraoral Approach for Mandibulectomy in 9 Cats: A Case Series
Authors: De Simoi Alessandro , Marchese Paola , Bartocetti Francesca
Published: May 2024

This retrospective case series describes a combined ventral extraoral and intraoral approach for mandibulectomy in cats and highlights the importance of prompt management of the postoperative iatrogenic malocclusion through dental extraction, crown height reduction with vital pulp therapy or root canal therapy of the contralateral mandibular canine tooth. Nine cats were reviewed for signalment, history and physical examination, diagnostic workup, tumor type, mandibulectomy extension, lymph node removal as well as both intraoperative and postoperative complications. The performed surgical procedure was a combination of an extraoral approach ventrally to the mandible and an intraoral approach to remove the whole or a part of the mandible. Lymphadenectomy was achieved using the same surgical access. None of the cats had intraoperative complications. Postoperative complications were limited to regional swelling and drooling lasting a week. Seven cats were able to eat immediately after the surgery. Of the other 2 cats, 1 regained the ability to eat within a month and 1 only ate from the owner's hands. The surgical approach for mandibulectomy described allowed better access and visualization of the caudal part of the mandible and direct access to regional lymph nodes. Moreover, if the expected postoperative malocclusion is managed during the same surgical procedure, there is a higher rate of postoperative eating ability compared to what is reported in the literature.
Unsupervised learning to detect wear faults in axial piston pumps by the similarity of periodic discharge pressure ripples
Authors: Chao Qun , Lu Sijie , Liu Chengliang , Wang Yuanhang
Published: May 2024

The anomaly detection of axial piston pumps is essential to ensure the reliable and safe operation of hydraulic systems. Discharge pressure ripple is an inherent property of axial piston pumps, which exhibits a periodic waveform over each cycle under normal conditions. This work proposes an unsupervised learning method to detect wear faults in axial piston pumps by the similarity of pressure ripple signals. Specifically, the healthy discharge pressure ripples are transformed into similarity matrices to train an unsupervised network comprising a convolutional encoder and a deconvolutional decoder. The reconstruction error of similarity matrix under normal conditions determines the anomaly threshold. The anomaly detection of axial piston pumps is performed by comparing the reconstruction errors of testing samples with the predefined anomaly threshold. A test rig was built to carry out experiments of an actual axial piston pump under eight operating conditions in both normal and abnormal scenarios. The experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively detect the anomaly behavior due to wear faults in the axial piston pump with an average accuracy rate of more than 90%.
Field investigation on the effect of the tamping machine and dynamic track stabilizer on changing the rail support modulus
Authors: Abbasi Aliakbar , Zakeri Jabbar Ali , Norouzi Ehsan , Mosayebi Seyed Ali
Published: May 2024

Due to increasing train speed and passage tonnage, the repair and maintenance of ballasted railway tracks is essential. As a result of cyclic train loads on ballasted tracks, the ballast layer can deteriorate. When the ballast bed deteriorates, it can change the track geometry, which leads to uncomfortable ride and an increase in wheel-rail interaction. Tamping is one of the most widely used methods for filling the ballast layer gaps around sleepers and homogenizing ballast beds in order to align the track geometry. After passing the tamping machine, the dynamic stabilizing machine is utilized to improve the quality of the ballast bed. The rail support modulus is an essential parameter for analyzing ballasted railway tracks, and it can change after maintenance operations. This paper extensively discusses the effects of maintenance operations on rail support modulus as an essential safety factor in ballasted tracks. In this study, a series of field tests are planned and conducted at Karaj station in Iran to investigate the effects of passing tamping and stabilizing machines on the rail support modulus in ballasted tracks. In this regard, the rail support modulus of the ballasted track according to deflection basins was measured in three stages (before tamping, after tamping, and after stabilizing), and the results were analyzed to determine the effects of passing maintenance machines on ballast beds. Based on the results, the tamping operation results in a 75.5% reduction in the rail support modulus, and after stabilizing the railway track, the rail support modulus is increased by 35.8%.
Renewable energy role in low-carbon economy and net-zero goal: Perspectives and prospects
Authors: Nguyen Van Giao , Sirohi Ranjna , Tran Minh Ho , Truong Thanh Hai , Duong Minh Thai , Pham Minh Tuan , Cao Dao Nam
Published: May 2024

Several issues such as sustainability, CO2 footprint, and energy supply security which primarily resulted from fossil fuel emissions have become the main concerns for analysts and policymakers worldwide. Therefore, to meet the goals of sustainable energy as well as the switch to a net-zero and low-carbon economy, energy systems must be diversified by increasing the implementation of renewable and clean sources of energy. This paper focused on the deep analysis of the key role of bioenergy, geothermal, solar, hydropower or hydrogen, ocean, and wind (BIGSHOW) renewable energy in producing clean energy aiming to attain the sustainable net-zero norms and climate change mitigation. Furthermore, AI technology and its applicability were also introduced to enhance the management efficiency of BIGSHOW in energy-use strategies. More importantly, barriers and bottlenecks of deploying BIGSHOW projects and applications were comprehensively analyzed. Finally, policy implications and vital solutions were thoroughly presented aiming to increase the penetration of BIGSHOW to the energy system. In short, this work could be strong and persuasive evidence for speeding up the shifting progress of a precarious fossil fuel-based economy to a sustainable low-carbon one, in which BIGSHOW has been known as the core role.
Internal Communication and Change Management at Cotton Web Private Limited
Authors: Fayyaz Anjum , Syed Jawad
Published: May 2024

Cotton Web Private Limited (CW), an apparel company based in Lahore, was established in the late 1990s by entrepreneurs who faced limitations in resources and experience within the textile manufacturing and export sector. Despite these constraints, the directors successfully capitalized on a narrow window of opportunity, leveraging their entrepreneurial skills with the dedicated support of experienced employees and fostering a positive ‘can-do’ culture. By 2013, they had transformed the company from its inception in 1998 into a substantial enterprise with over 2,000 employees. At this juncture, the directors, particularly Daniyal and Waseem, decided to initiate a strategic change aimed at transitioning the flat, entrepreneurial structure of the company into a systematically managed organization. To facilitate this transformation, the directors enlisted the services of an external HR consultant to assess, design, and implement the strategic change process. Despite the positive intent behind the change process to foster organizational growth and enhance management systems, it encountered significant challenges. Communication breakdowns emerged at various levels and junctures, including between the directors and the HR consultant, between the consultant and the employees, and between the management and the workforce. The change process, unfortunately, resulted in thirteen resignations within a short timeframe, indicating its disruptive impact. This challenging situation left the directors in an uncomfortable position, compelling them to contemplate difficult decisions to address the issues at hand.
Observations on sport and eSport from a systems theory perspective: Theoretical reflections on differentiating sport and eSport and on the functions and consequences of an integration
Authors: Borggrefe Carmen , Hoffmann Andreas
Published: May 2024

This article takes up the sport policy and sports science debate on the recognition of competitive computer and video games—so-called eSport—as sport and pursues the goal of differentiating sport and eSport on the basis of systems theory considerations and reflecting on the functions and consequences of recognizing eSport as sport. It begins by addressing the questions of how sport can be observed at all with the help of theories and which epistemological position underlies the systems theory approach. This is followed by a consideration of sport in terms of systems theory as a social functional system and by reflection on forms of structural coupling between the sport system and other social functional systems. In light of these theoretical considerations, the connectivity of eSport to the sport system as well as the functions and consequences of such an integration for structural couplings between the sport system and the systems of health, education, the economy, mass media, and politics are analyzed. The article concludes with an outline of perspectives for future scientific observation of sport and eSport.
Superpower CorruptsAntagonistic Superpowers Corrupt Absolutely
Authors: Mintzberg Henry
Published: May 2024

If power tends to corrupt, then imagine what superpower can do. Three superpowers, each imbalanced in its own way—toward state communism (China), private capitalism (United States), and national populism (Russia)—vie with each other for global supremacy, all with a substantial arsenal of nuclear weapons under the control of a single individual. Whether malevolent or mistaken, any one can provoke World War III. We shall, therefore, have to think outside the superpower box, for example, by favoring grounded communityship over centralized leadership, and global governance beyond antagonistic superpower.
Pluralism or Uniformity: Case of (Single) National Curriculum of Pakistan
Authors: Shaikh Rizwan , Benedetti Christopher
Published: May 2024

The Single National Curriculum (SNC) of Pakistan is a federally promoted, politically one-sided policy, with its aim to reform the educational system of Pakistan and bring different educational systems under one uniform curriculum highly induced with Islamic doctrines. Many students have been singled out, given the restrictive nature of SNC. This paper discusses pluralism and uniformity given the SNC and critiques the SNC, social inequalities, and power imbalances in the multiethnic, diverse, and polarized society of Pakistan. The paper concludes with suggestions for evolving the SNC to address the multifaceted needs of students in Pakistan.
NTRK3-Rearranged Prostatic Acinar Adenocarcinoma: Report of a Patient and Review of the Literature
Authors: Whaley Rumeal D. , Tekin Burak , McCarthy Michael R. , Zia Hamid M. , Pitel Beth A. , Al-Kateb Hussam , Cheville John C. , Gupta Sounak
Published: May 2024

Molecular investigations have led to increased therapeutic options for prostatic adenocarcinoma. A single case report of a PRPSAP1:: NTRK3 gene fusion occurring in prostate cancer was previously reported. A review of the literature revealed that NTRK gene rearrangements are exceedingly rare molecular events in prostate cancer. NTRK gene fusions can be oncogenic drivers or develop as resistance mechanisms. The tumor-agnostic approvals of TRK inhibitors by the FDA provide additional rationale for molecular investigations of aggressive prostatic adenocarcinomas. This may prove to be an additional therapeutic option for patients with aggressive prostatic carcinomas refractory to initial therapy. We report a case of an aggressive castrate-resistant prostatic adenocarcinoma with a BMP6:: NTRK3 gene fusion.
A lubrication contact stiffness model considering asperity interactions
Authors: Lu Shujie , Wang Xingyuan , Xu Chonglin , Wang Yue , Zhang Lixun
Published: May 2024

In practical engineering applications, most connection interfaces require lubrication. The contact stiffness of the lubrication interface can affect the static and dynamic characteristics of the interface, thus affecting the performance of the mechanical system, such as vibration, fatigue, and wear characteristics. Therefore, the measurement of lubrication contact stiffness is very important for the analysis and optimization of mechanical system performance. However, measuring the stiffness of the lubrication interface is a significant challenge. In this paper, a mixed lubrication contact stiffness model considering asperity interactions is proposed, which assumes the lubrication rough interface as an equivalent thin layer. The proposed model was compared with the lubrication contact model that does not consider the asperity interactions. Based on the microscopic contact behavior of the contact interface, the relationship between the mechanical parameters of the virtual thin layer and the contact pressure was analyzed. Finally, the predicted results of interface stiffness are verified by published theoretical and experimental results. The results show that the proposed model can more reasonably describe the actual contact behavior of the rough lubrication interface and give the variation law of the mechanical parameters of the virtual thin layer.
Young Adults with Intellectual Disability Not Participating in Employment, Education or Daily Activity: Social Relationships and Experiences of Belonging
Authors: Luthra Renee
Published: May 2024

A sense of belonging can be created through social relationships with other people but also through engagement in arenas such as work, school or leisure activities. The aim of the study was to examine the social relationships of young adults with intellectual disability who are not in employment, education or daily activity, as well as how these relationships are conditions for experiences of belonging. Semi-structured interviews with 10 individuals were conducted followed by thematic analysis. The results show that despite not having a daily occupation, the target group has meaningful social relationships that are informal (family, friends and online) and organized (professionals and leisure activities) in nature. These relationships contribute to a sense of belonging. Moreover, aspects related to having an intellectual disability, to being a young adult and their occupational status influence the groups’ relationships and experiences of belonging.
Promoting health and wellness through Indigenous sacred sites, ceremony grounds, and land-based learning: a scoping review
Authors: Sinclaire Moneca , Allen Lindsay P , Hatala Andrew R
Published: May 2024

This study analyzes the literature on Indigenous sacred sites within the larger topic areas of land-based education and healing, as per the guidance of Anishinaabe (a group of Indigenous Peoples from the Great Lakes and the Great Plains areas of contemporary Canada and USA) Elders and community leaders in eastern Manitoba, Canada. A scoping review was conducted to identify the size, scope, nature, and key themes of existing research in seven databases, inclusive of gray literature which is a key source for Indigenous organizations. In total, we analyzed 35 articles and documents. The emerging themes included: (1) sacred sites and the promotion of health and wellness; (2) sacred sites as places of knowledge; (3) the desecration and protection of sacred sites; and (4) legal battles between Indigenous Peoples and the state. Recommendations to advance understandings and correct colonially imposed imbalances are discussed, and health and legal implications are outlined.
Meeting in the margin: can participatory research address the root causes of Indigenous mental health problems?
Authors: Vrakas Georgia , Laliberté (Timiskaming First Nation) Arlene
Published: May 2024

Although Indigenous Peoples represent 5% of the population in Canada, they present higher rates of psychosocial problems including mental health issues and suicide than their non-Indigenous counterparts. They are also over-represented in the youth protection and prison systems. This must be understood within the specific context of the oppression of Indigenous Peoples in Canada through colonization and colonialist policies. To improve Indigenous mental health and wellbeing, the oppression underlying it must be addressed. The objective of this article is to illustrate how we, as mental health researchers, can contribute to this process. Based on Collins’ matrix of domination, and bell hooks’s space of resistance, an analysis of community-based participatory research and its impacts on helping Indigenous People overcome oppression is offered. Limits of participatory research’s contributions to social change are presented. Anti-oppressive participatory research is offered as a promising alternative.
Indigenous Elder perspectives on climate change challenges and solutions: learning reflection from Blackfoot First Nation perspectives, Canada
Authors: Datta Ranjan , Starlight (Tsuut’ina First Nation) Teena , Mistaken (Kainai First Nation) Daniel Craig
Published: May 2024

In this article, we explore the importance of incorporating Indigenous Elders’ perspectives in developing solutions to climate change. Following relational land-based theoretical frameworks, we learn from Indigenous Elders how they foster a strong sense of community and collective responsibility. Indigenous Elders prioritize inclusivity, social cohesion, and the interconnectedness of humans with nature. In our study, we focus on two main perspectives: how traditional land-based knowledge and practices held by Indigenous Elders contribute to the development of solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation. What lessons can be learned from Indigenous Elder perspectives that may guide global efforts in addressing climate change and creating a sustainable future for all? Our study suggests that recognizing and incorporating Indigenous Elder perspectives into climate change solutions is essential for addressing the complex and multidimensional challenges of the current climate crisis.