bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-operative treatment of metacarpal fractures and patient-reported outcomes: a multicentre snapshot study
Authors: de Haas L. E. M. , Jawahier P. A. , Hendriks T. C. C. , Salentijn D. A. , van Hoorn B. T. , Groenwold R. H. H. , Schep N. W. L. , van Heijl M.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate practice variation in non-operative treatment methods and immobilisation duration for metacarpal fractures, and to evaluate patient-reported outcomes.

Methods

Conducted in 12 Dutch hospitals over three months in 2020, this study included adult patients with non-operatively treated solitary metacarpal fractures. Fractures were classified into intra-articular base, extra-articular base, shaft, neck, and intra-articular head fractures. The treatment methods (functional treatment allowing digit mobilisation or immobilisation) and immobilisation duration were assessed. Patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) at three months post-trauma.

Results

Of 389 included patients, shaft fractures were most common (n = 150, 39%), with 93% immobilised, followed by fifth metacarpal neck fractures (n = 93, 24%), with 75% immobilised. Immobilisation rates for fifth metacarpal neck fractures varied between hospitals, ranging from 29% (95% CI 0.10–0.58) to 100% (95% CI 0.78–1.00). The median immobilisation duration for all fractures was 23 days (IQR: 20–28), and hospital setting was independently associated with this duration. Patients with metacarpal shaft fractures immobilised for less than 21 days had higher MHQ scores compared to those immobilised for 21 days or more (median (IQR) 83 (76–100) versus 71 (57–89), p = 0.026).

Conclusions

The results showed practice variation in the treatment of metacarpal fractures, especially in the treatment of fifth MC neck fractures, with some hospitals following the Dutch guideline that advocates functional treatment while others did not. There are suggestions that prolonged immobilisation of metacarpal shaft fractures may lead to a worse MHQ score. These findings underscore the need for adherence to treatment protocols and emphasize functional treatment to potentially improve patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
World-class amethyst-agate geodes from Los Catalanes, Northern Uruguay: genetic implications from fluid inclusions and stable isotopes
Authors: Arduin-Rode Fiorella , Sosa Graciela , van den Kerkhof Alfons , Krüger Yves , Bajnai David , Pack Andreas , Di Rocco Tommaso , Oyhantçabal Pedro , Wemmer Klaus , Herwartz Daniel , Klipsch Swea , Wiegand Bettina , Siegesmund Siegfried , Hueck Mathias
Published: September 2024

The amethyst and agate geodes from the Los Catalanes Gemmological District in Uruguay represent one of the main deposits of its kind worldwide. The geometry of the deposit is horizontal, with an irregular distribution of amethyst geodes within the upper level of the basalt lava flows and shows strong variations in their abundance, as well as quality, geometry, and shape. Reliable exploration guides are scarce, and the limited knowledge of the geological parameters controlling its occurrence makes exploration unpredictable, leading to inaccurate reserve estimation. Based on cutting-edge methods including nucleation-assisted microthermometry of one-phase fluid inclusions and determination of triple oxygen isotope in silicates and carbonates, as well as analysis of geode-hosted water and groundwater, we estimate the crystallisation temperatures in the range between 15 and 60 °C. These low temperatures point to amethyst crystallisation after the emplacement of the complete basalt pile. The mineralising fluid shows isotopic signatures consistent with meteoric water and very low salinities from pure water up to rarely over 3 wt% NaCl-eq., likely sourced from the groundwater hosted in the aquifers in the basaltic sequence and underlying units. Based on the insights provided by the new data, we propose the combination of open- and closed-system crystallisation inside pre-existing cavities due to the episodic infiltration of meteoric water in a rather stable geological context.
Ein verhängnisvoller Restaurantbesuch
Authors: Birkefeld Katrin , Seifert Dragana , Heinemann Axel , Ondruschka Benjamin
Published: September 2024

Überlebte Stromunfälle kommen eher selten zur rechtsmedizinischen Begutachtung. Ein 14 Monate alter Junge ohne bekannte Vorerkrankungen begann während eines Restaurantbesuchs im Bereich eines Abtrittrostes an einer Eingangstürschwelle zu krampfen. Während klinisch die Ursache des reanimationspflichtigen Zustands zunächst nicht geklärt werden konnte, zeigte die rechtsmedizinische Untersuchung eine Strommarke am linken Unterarm und Hinweise auf Stromeinwirkung an den Akren. Die elektrotechnische Begutachtung offenbarte kratzerartige Spuren und Anhaftungen von Aluminium an den Kupferleitern unter einer beschädigten Kabelisolation an dem Abtrittrost. Durch gleichzeitiges Berühren der geerdeten Türschwelle war es zum Stromfluss durch den Körper und zu lebensgefährlichen Herzrhythmusstörungen gekommen. Residual verblieb nach etwa 4 Wochen noch eine leichte globale Hirnatrophie. Mangels expliziter elektrotechnischer Mindestnormen wurden strafrechtliche Ermittlungen eingestellt. Bei unklaren Verletzungsmustern von Kindern sollte rechtsmedizinische Expertise frühestmöglich hinzugezogen werden.
Validation of a computerized model for a new biomechanical concept- the fossa-foveolar mismatch- the answer to lesions of the ligamentous fossa-foveolar complex in the hip?
Authors: Stetzelberger Vera M. , Segessenmann Jannine T. , Cek Cem , Popa Vlad , Schwab Joseph M. , Zurmühle Corinne A. , Heimann Alexander F. , Tannast Moritz
Published: September 2024

Background

Hip-preserving surgery in young patients frequently reveals lesions of the ligamentum teres (LT). Histological and clinical evidence supports that those lesions could be source of intraarticular hip pain. It has been hypothesized that LT degeneration could be linked to the abnormal positioning of the fovea outside the lunate surface during various daily motions. We introduce the “fossa-foveolar mismatch” (FFM) by determining the trajectory of the fovea in the fossa during hip motions, enabling a comparison across diverse hip-pathomorphologies. Aims: to determine (1) intraobserver reliability and (2) interobserver reproducibility of our computer-assisted 3-dimensional (3D) model of the FFM.

Materials and methods

All patients with joint preserving surgery for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) or developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) at our institution (11. 2015–08.2019)were initially eligible. We employed a simple random sampling technique to select 15 patients for analysis. Three-dimensional surface models based on preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans were built, the fossa virtually excised, the fovea capitis marked. Models were subjected to physiological range of motion with validated 3D collision detection software. Using a standardized medial view on the resected fossa and the transparent lunate surface, the FFM-index was calculated for 17 motions. It was obtained by dividing the surface occupied by the fovea outside of the fossa by the total foveolar tracking surface. Three observers independently performed all analyses twice. (1) Intraobserver reliability and (2) interobserver reproducibility were calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results

(1) We obtained excellent intraobserver ICCs for the FFM-index averaging 0.92 with 95% CI 0.77–0.9 among the three raters for all motions. (2) Interobserver reproducibility between raters was good to excellent, ranging from 0.76 to 0.98.

Conclusions

The FFM-index showed excellent intraobserver reliability and interobserver reproducibility for all motions. This innovative approach deepens our understanding of biomechanical implications, providing valuable insights for identifying patient populations at risk.
“Heterotopic ossification after total hip arthroplasty through direct anterior approach without a dedicated orthopaedic table or direct lateral approach: a quasi-randomized single-center study”
Authors: Iorio Raffaele , Cantagalli Matteo Romano , Viglietta Edoardo , Corsetti Federico , Gugliotta Yuri , Previ Leonardo , Gagliardo Salvatore , Fenucci Simone , Maffulli Nicola
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Heterotopic ossifications (HO) are common after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The invasiveness of surgical approaches plays a relevant role in HO development. The aims of this study were to assess the development of HO 6 months after THA through direct lateral approach (DLA) or direct anterior approach (DAA) without a dedicated orthopaedic table and to assess the clinical impact of HO.

Methods

This is a single-center IRB-approved, quasi-randomized prospective cohort, observational imaging study. Fifty patients underwent primary THA through DLA and 50 through DAA. Age, sex, BMI and side of the affected hip were collected. At the 6 post-operative month the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and the presence of HO (scored through the Brooker classification system) were assessed.

Results

There was no significant difference in the demographic data between groups. Operative time was significantly higher in the DAA group (72 ± 10 min vs. 58 ± 8 min: p < 0.03). At 6 post-operative months the incidence of HO was 14% in the DAA group and 32% in the DLA group (p = 0.02). Severe HO (Brooker 3–4) were significantly more common in the DLA group (p = 0.04). There was no significant difference in the HHS of patients with HO between the DAA and DLA groups. There was no association between poorer clinical outcomes and the severity of HO.

Conclusion

The DAA without a dedicated orthopaedic table is associated with a significant lower incidence of HO than the DLA 6 months after elective THA. Except for the surgical approach, no other factors correlated with the occurrence of HO. Even though a lower HHS was found with severe HO, the correlation between severity of HO and clinical outcomes did not reach statistical significance.
Nested object detection using mask R-CNN: application to bee and varroa detection
Authors: Kriouile Yassine , Ancourt Corinne , Wegrzyn-Wolska Katarzyna , Bougueroua Lamine
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we address an essential problem related to object detection and image processing: detecting objects potentially nested in other ones. This problem exists particularly in the beekeeping sector: detecting varroa parasites on bees. Indeed, beekeepers must ensure the level of infestation of their apiaries by the varroa parasite which settles on the backs of bees. As far as we know, there is no yet a published approach to deal with nested object detection using only one neural network trained on two different datasets. We propose an approach that fills this gap. Therefore, we improve the accuracy and the efficiency of bee and varroa detection task. Our work is based on deep learning, more precisely Mask R-CNN neural network. Instead of segmenting detected objects (bees), we segment internal objects (varroas). We add a branch to Faster R-CNN to segment internal objects. We extract relevant features for internal object segmentation and suggest efficient method for training the neural network on two different datasets. Our experiments are based on a set of images of bee frames, containing annotated bees and varroa mites. Due to differences in occurrence rates, two different sets were created. After carrying out experiments, we ended up with a single neural network capable of detecting two nested objects without decreasing accuracy compared to two separate neural networks. Our approach, compared to traditional separate neural networks, improves varroa detection accuracy by 1.9%, reduces infestation level prediction error by 0.22%, and reduces execution time by 28% and model memory by 23%. In our approach, we extract Res4 (a layer of the ResNet neural network) features for varroa segmentation, which improves detection accuracy by 11% compared to standard FPN extraction. Thus, we suggest a new approach that detects nested objects more accurately than two separate network approaches.
Laparoendoscopic extraperitoneal surgical techniques for ventral hernias and diastasis recti repair: a systematic review
Authors: Ferrara Francesco , Fiori Federico
Published: September 2024

Purpose

this systematic review aims to classify and summarize the characteristics and outcomes of the different laparoendoscopic extraperitoneal approaches for the repair of ventral hernias and diastasis recti described in the last 10 years.

Methods

a literature search was performed by two reviewers in December 2023 including articles from January 2013, 01 to December 2023, 15. The techniques were selected according to the surgical access site (anterior or posterior to the rectus sheath), the access type (laparoendoscopic, single incision laparoscopic, mini or less open), the main space used to repair the defect (subcutaneous or retromuscular) and the mesh place (onlay, sublay-retromuscular or sublay-preperitoneal) and classified as anterior or posterior approaches.

Results

the literature search retrieved 1755 results and 27 articles were included in the study. The studies included 1874 patients, the mean age ranged from 37.8 to 60.2 years. The access site was anterior in 16 cases and posterior in 11 cases. The mesh was positioned onlay in 13 cases and sublay in 13 cases, with only one study using no mesh. Complications were: seroma, ranging from 0.8 to 81%, followed by skin complications (leak, ischemia, necrosis) from 0.8 to 6.4%, surgical site infections and bleeding. Recurrences ranged from 0% to 12,5%, with a mean follow-up from 1 to 24 months.

Conclusion

this systematic review confirms the presence of several new minimally invasive extraperitoneal techniques for the repair of abdominal wall defects, with different advantages and disadvantages. Further studies, with more extensive follow-up data and wider patient groups, are necessary to define specific indications for each technique.
Evidence for the communicative function of human-directed gazing in 6- to 7-week-old dog puppies
Authors: Riemer Stefanie , Bonorand Alina , Stolzlechner Lisa
Published: September 2024

In human infants, the ability to show gaze alternations between an object of interest and another individual is considered fundamental to the development of complex social-cognitive abilities. Here we show that well-socialised dog puppies show gaze alternations in two contexts at an early age, 6–7 weeks. Thus, 69.4% of puppies in a novel object test and 45.59% of puppies during an unsolvable task alternated their gaze at least once between a person’s face and the object. In both contexts, the frequency of gaze alternations was positively correlated with the duration of whimpering, supporting the communicative nature of puppies’ gazing. Furthermore, the number of gaze alternations in the two contexts was correlated, indicating an underlying propensity for gazing at humans despite likely different motivations in the two contexts. Similar to humans, and unlike great apes or wolves, domestic dogs show gaze alternations from an early age if they are well-socialised. They appear to have a genetic preparedness to communicate with humans via gaze alternations early in ontogeny, but they may need close contact with humans for this ability to emerge, highlighting the interactive effects of domestication and environmental factors on behavioural development in dogs.
Optimal expansions of Kakeya sequences
Authors: Lai A. C. , Loreti P.
Published: September 2024

We investigate optimal expansions of Kakeya sequences for the representation of real numbers. Expansions of Kakeya sequences generalize the expansions in non-integer bases and they display analogous redundancy phenomena. In this paper, we characterize optimal expansions of Kakeya sequences, and we provide conditions for the existence of unique expansions with respect to Kakeya sequences.
Odour characterisation of recycled HDPE in different washing and processing processes
Authors: Martínez Juan López , Rodríguez Rego Jesús Manuel , Cerezo Laura Mendoza , Madrigal María Dolores Samper , Macías-García Antonio
Published: September 2024

The waste of polymeric materials in our society is increasing year after year, generating a serious pollution problem. One way to deal with this waste problem is to recycle and reuse these materials. This process of recovery of used plastic materials aims to minimise their impact on the environment and reduce the energy consumption required for the generation of new consumer products. Recycling companies that recover these plastic materials must take into account some aspects such as transparency and colour, cleanliness, size, odour and sorting. One of the major disadvantages in accepting these recycled materials in the production processes is their odour, which in some cases causes the rejection of materials with comparable mechanical characteristics. High-density polyethylene, HDPE, is one of the polymeric wastes generated in the packaging industry. The aim of this work is to eliminate the bad odour of HDPE from waste collection plants for application in the recovery and reuse industry. HDPE supplied by a recycling company was washed, characterised and processed, and the odour was analysed by gas chromatography at each stage and by olfactory panel. In view of the results, it was observed that the washing processes managed to reduce the odour. Likewise, the processing of this waste by extrusion and injection managed to further reduce this effect, even eliminating some of the components responsible for odour by treating the samples with acetone and then extruding and injecting these samples. These results have a direct application in the packaging industry with significant shares of recycled material.
Targeting Toll-like Receptor 4/Nuclear Factor-κB and Nrf2/Heme Oxygenase-1 Crosstalk via Trimetazidine Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Depressive-like Behaviors in Mice
Authors: Mohamed Sarah S. , Rasheed Nora O. Abdel , Ibrahim Weam W. , Shiha Nesma A.
Published: September 2024

Depression is a global psychiatric illness that imposes a substantial economic burden. Unfortunately, traditional antidepressants induce many side effects which limit patient compliance thus, exploring alternative therapies with fewer adverse effects became urgent. This study aimed to investigate the effect of trimetazidine (TMZ); a well-known anti-ischemic drug in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mouse model of depression focusing on its ability to regulate toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) as well as nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2)/ heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathways. Male Swiss albino mice were injected with LPS (500 µg/kg, i.p) every other day alone or parallel with oral doses of either escitalopram (Esc) (10 mg/kg/day) or TMZ (20 mg/kg/day) for 14 days. Treatment with TMZ attenuated LPS-induced animals' despair with reduced immobility time inforced swimming test. TMZ also diminished LPS- induced neuro-inflammation via inhibition of TLR4/NF-κB pathway contrary to Nrf2/HO-1 cascade activation with consequent increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) and HO-1 levels whereas the pro-inflammatory cytokines; tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-1β were evidently reduced. Besides, TMZ replenished brain serotonin levels via serotonin transporter (SERT) inhibition. Thus, TMZ hindered LPS-induced neuro-inflammation, oxidative stress, serotonin deficiency besides its anti-apoptotic effect which was reflected by decreased caspase-3 level. Neuroprotective effects of TMZ were confirmed by the histological photomicrographs which showed prominent neuronal survival. Here we showed that TMZ is an affluent nominee for depression management via targeting TLR4/NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. Future research addressing TMZ-antidepressant activity in humans is mandatory to enroll it as a novel therapeutic strategy for depression.

Graphical Abstract
Brotherhood and unity: ethnic diversity and economic performance in socialist Yugoslavia
Authors: Miladinović Luka
Published: September 2024

Literature on economic consequences of ethnic diversity suggests that ethnic diversity impedes economic growth in dictatorships, while inclusive policies may foster economic benefits from diversity. This paper investigates the impact of ethnic diversity on municipal economic growth in socialist Yugoslavia, a distinctive context due to its dictatorial regime’s active promotion of ethnic inclusion. Utilizing novel estimations of economic performance for 498 municipalities across the census years 1961, 1971, and 1981, the analysis based on seemingly unrelated regressions model reveals that higher ethnic diversity, measured through an ethnic fractionalization index is associated with slower economic growth of Yugoslav municipalities. The study is the first quantitative assessment of the economic consequences of ethnic diversity in Yugoslavia and provides nuanced insights into the effectiveness of inclusive policies, suggesting that while such policies may foster economic benefits, they might not fully counteract the economic drawbacks of ethnic diversity under dictatorship and in an economy that is not primarily driven by market forces.
Phenomenological Dimensions of Body in the Zhuangzi
Authors: Turner Kevin J.
Published: September 2024

This article argues that a phenomenological notion of “lived body” emerges in the Zhuangzi’s 莊子 critique of the Confucian body of ritual and morality. It also argues that a philosophical account of body cannot be reduced to a Sinological account. This article draws on the phenomenological distinction between “object body” and “lived body,” especially the “three ontological dimensions” of Jean-Paul Sartre to argue that the Zhuangzi criticizes the Confucian body of ritual and morality as being a “body-for-others” and that it maintains a concept of “lived body.” Finally, it argues that through such methods of cultivation as “sitting and forgetting” a liberation of the body is achieved where one is connected to dao 道 and achieves a state of heightened experience.
Lateral Compression Fragility Fractures of the Pelvis: Diagnosis, Classifications, and Modern Management
Authors: Patterson Joseph T. , Parry Joshua A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose of Review

To describe the diagnosis, classification, and modern management of lateral compression fragility fractures of the pelvis.

Recent Findings

Practice patterns are shifting toward early operative treatment of fragility fractures of the pelvis among patients who are unable to mobilize or whose injuries demonstrate occult instability on stress imaging. Early internal fixation appears to decrease pain, facilitate mobilization, accelerate hospital discharge, and minimize morbidity in this population.

Lateral compression pelvic ring injuries are the most common type of fragility fracture of the pelvis. Similar to fragility fractures of the hip, lateral compression fragility fractures of the pelvis are typically sustained in a ground level fall. These injuries are associated with long acute hospital and post-acute facility admissions, loss of physical function, loss of independence, mortality, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and caregiver burnout. Unlike hip fractures, for which urgent operative treatment and early mobilization reduce mortality, lateral compression fragility fractures of the pelvis are commonly treated without surgery. Recommendations for nonoperative management of these injuries in older adults may be inappropriately generalized from studies of younger patient populations with high-energy mechanisms of pelvis fracture. However, strong evidence to support early internal fixation of these injuries practice is lacking. High quality investigations of early surgical intervention for lateral compression fragility fractures of the pelvis are needed to guide care for these patients.
Unlocking Hope: Therapeutic Advances and Approaches in Modulating the Wnt Pathway for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Faraji Navid , Ebadpour Negar , Abavisani Mohammad , Gorji Ali
Published: September 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are conditions characterized by sensory, motor, and cognitive impairments due to alterations in the structure and function of neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Despite their widespread occurrence, the exact causes of NDs remain largely elusive, and existing treatments fall short in efficacy. The Wnt signaling pathway is an emerging molecular pathway that has been linked to the development and progression of various NDs. Wnt signaling governs numerous cellular processes, such as survival, polarity, proliferation, differentiation, migration, and fate specification, via a complex network of proteins. In the adult CNS, Wnt signaling regulates synaptic transmission, plasticity, memory formation, neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and neuroinflammation, all essential for maintaining neuronal function and integrity. Dysregulation of both canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling pathways contributes to neurodegeneration through various mechanisms, such as amyloid-β accumulation, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, dopaminergic neuron degeneration, and synaptic dysfunction, prompting investigations into Wnt modulation as a therapeutic target to restore neuronal function and prevent or delay neurodegenerative processes. Modulating Wnt signaling has the potential to restore neuronal function and impede or postpone neurodegenerative processes, offering a therapeutic approach for targeting NDs. In this article, the current knowledge about how Wnt signaling works in Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease is discussed. Our study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms, recent discoveries, and challenges involved in developing Wnt-based therapies.
“You Must Learn to Age”: Reflections on and Adaptations to Age-Related Changes Among Older Artists and Craftspeople
Authors: Chacur Karima , Serrat Rodrigo , Villar Feliciano , Swinnen Aagje
Published: September 2024

Studies about older people’s participation in artistic activities have increased. However, a deeper understanding of older artists’ adaptation to the ageing process is still lacking. The purposes of this study were to explore how older artists and craftspeople perceive age-related changes, and to examine their adaptations to these changes. We carried out in-depth, open-ended individual interviews with 30 visual artists and craftspeople aged 60 and older. We found that almost all of them experienced age-related changes in relation to their artistic engagement, which they mainly associated with health-related issues, namely sensory losses and physical changes. In addition, we identified six strategies aimed at adjusting to age-related changes: adapting the work pace, modifying the artistic practice, using technical aids, engaging in artistic collaboration, developing environmental adaptations, and implementing self-care practices. Most participants discussed at least one strategy to adapt to age-related changes, and it was common to combine various strategies. Findings were discussed from a lifespan perspective. Our study expands previous research on experiences of artistic participation among older people, and specifically on their modes of adapting to the ageing process in the context of their artistic practices.
Moral Generalizations and Moral Explanatory Pluralism
Authors: Stamatiadis-Bréhier Alexios
Published: September 2024

I argue that moral principles, construed as moral generalizations, can be genuinely explanatory. Specifically, I present and respond to a challenge according to which moral generalizations are explanatorily redundant. In response, I present and defend an explanatory dimension of moral generalizations that is based on the idea of unification. I do so in the context of motivating a realist-friendly moral explanatory pluralism (i.e., the view that there can be many, equally legitimate, explanations of moral facts). Finally, I appeal to the same theoretical resources to tackle an objection from explanatory circularity.
Relationship between the intraindividual interplay of negative and positive exam-related emotions and the behavioral-emotional dimensions of academic procrastination
Authors: Gadosey Christopher K. , Turhan Derya , Wenker Theresa , Kegel Lena S. , Bobe Julia , Thomas Laura , Buhlmann Ulrike , Fries Stefan , Grunschel Carola
Published: September 2024

Although achievement situations trigger multiple emotions and learners experience both negative and positive emotions simultaneously, procrastination research typically examines isolated relationships between specific emotions and procrastination. The potential interplay of negative and positive emotions regarding procrastination is often overlooked, although this perspective can shed light on their dynamic relationships. Moreover, past studies primarily address the behavioral aspect of procrastination (delay) while overlooking its emotional facet (subjective discomfort), albeit this differentiation could enhance understanding of procrastination and its correlates. The present study explores the understudied interplay of the two most frequently experienced negative (anxiety) and positive (hope) exam-related emotions regarding students’ procrastination tendencies with differentiated behavioral and emotional dimensions. The study analyzes cross-sectional data from two independent studies (Nstudy1 = 266, Nstudy2 = 468) conducted in Germany among university students. Latent profile analyses (LPA) reveal three similar profiles across both studies—High Anxiety–Low Hope, Low Anxiety–High Hope and Moderate Anxiety–Moderate Hope— and two study-specific profiles namely, Low Anxiety–Moderate Hope (Study 1) and High Anxiety–Moderate Hope (Study 2). Females compared to males are more likely to belong to the anxiety-dominated profiles. Overall, students in anxiety-dominated profiles report higher scores whereas students in hope-dominated profiles report lower scores on both behavioral and emotional dimensions of academic procrastination. This study advances an integrated approach that incorporates the combined effects of both negative and positive emotions concerning procrastination. Findings further inform research efforts towards identifying risk and protective emotional factors to develop tailored intervention against academic procrastination.
Improving Continuous Loss-in-weight Feeding Accuracy by a Novel Hopper Design
Authors: Fathollahi Sara , Demiri Valjon , Hörmann-Kincses Theresa R. , Maljuric Snjezana , Massoner Julia , Mehos Greg , Khinast Johannes G.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Powder feeding is a vital unit operation in the continuous manufacturing of pharmaceutical products. Loss-in-weight twin-screw feeders are commonly used in continuous manufacturing lines. The feeding performance, i.e., the accuracy and consistency of feeding, influences the content uniformity of the final drug product. In this study, a redesigned hopper for K-Tron KT20 twin-screw feeder was designed, implemented, and investigated to improve feeding performance. The basic idea was to design the hopper in such a way that the stresses on top of the screw entrance are independent of the fill level.

Methods

Our study compared the novel system to that of the original cylindrical hopper. The effect of the redesigned hopper on the start-up, the process’ sensitivity to refill level, and the refill portion size were studied. A free-flowing, barely compressible powder and a compressible blend were used in this study to evaluate the feeding performance and the refill effects.

Results

When using compressible powders, the results showed a larger process window for refilling in the redesigned hopper and a lower refill-level sensitivity compared to the original hopper.

Conclusion

The homogenization of stresses in the redesigned hopper allowed operating at lower refill levels, and variability, especially due to refilling, was reduced. This study demonstrates novel design approaches for successfully implementing hard-to-feed materials in continuous manufacturing.
Leveraging Multi-Sectoral Partnership for Colorectal Cancer Education and Screening in the African American Community: A Protocol and Preliminary Results
Authors: Kim Jungyoon , Dai Hongying Daisy , Michaud Tzeyu , Verma Sachi , King Keyonna M. , Ewing John W. , Mabiala-Maye Grace , Estabrooks Paul
Published: September 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) awareness and screening rates are still low in African Americans (AAs), especially for those who do not have regular access to health care. We established a multi-sector community partnership between academia, health system, cancer advocacy, and local county treasurer’s office (CTO), to test a pilot CRC screening intervention using a tailored educational brochure and fecal immunochemical test (FIT). Participants were recruited at a local CTO in an urban midwestern region. Once eligible, participants were assigned to 2-by-2 intervention arms by educational strategy (brochure vs. no brochure) and FIT provision strategy (direct provision by onsite staff vs. indirect provision via phone/online request). We compared the effect of different strategies on FIT return rates. Of 1500 individuals approached, 212 were eligible for the study. The final sample consisted of 209 participants who were predominantly men (57%) and AAs (85%). No differences were found in the return rates by educational brochure (24% [brochure] vs. 23% [no brochure]; p = 0.82). In regard to FIT provision strategy, direct FIT provision yielded higher return rates than indirect provision (31% vs. 15%; p = 0.01). When the four groups were compared, direct provision with education brochure yielded the highest return rates (33.9%), followed by direct provision only (27.5%), indirect provision only (18%), and indirect provision with a brochure (12.2%). For community-based CRC screening intervention using stool-based test, the direct provision of FIT kits with educational brochure outperforms the other three strategies.
An Accurate Critical Total Drawdown Prediction Model for Sand Production: Adaptive Neuro-fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) Technique
Authors: Alakbari Fahd Saeed , Mahmood Syed Mohammad , Mohyaldinn Mysara Eissa , Ayoub Mohammed Abdalla , Hussein Ibnelwaleed A. , Muhsan Ali Samer , Salih Abdullah Abduljabbar , Abbas Azza Hashim
Published: September 2024

Sand production causes many problems in the petroleum industry. The sand production is predicted to control it in the early stages. Therefore, accurate prediction of sand production has been considered substantial in achieving successful sand control. Critical total drawdown (CTD) can indicate the sand production. The main drawback of the previous studies in predicting CTD is their lack of accuracy. Thus, this study aims to develop an accurate CTD estimation prediction model employing a trend analysis and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The method is chosen because of its higher performance; the model is built based on 23 published datasets from the Adriatic Sea. The developed ANFIS model is evaluated using various methods, namely, trend analyses. Trend analyses are conducted to show the effects of the features on the CTD to present the physical behavior. The model’s performance was also evaluated using statistical error analyses. In addition, the ANFIS and previously published models were assessed. The trend analyses show the correct relationship between all features and the CTD. In addition, the trend analyses for the previous models are discussed. The results show that the proposed ANFIS method outperforms published methods with an R of 0.9984 and an absolute average percentage relative error (AAPRE) of 4.293%.
Hybrid Nanoparticle-Enhanced Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer Behaviors in a Parabolic Cavity with a Heat Source
Authors: Mohebbi Rasul , Ma Yuan
Published: September 2024

Natural convection of nanofluids holds considerable importance in both scientific research and engineering applications due to their exceptional heat transfer capabilities, which occur spontaneously without the need for additional energy input. In this paper, the natural convection of nanofluid inside a parabolic cavity containing a hot obstacle is studied numerically. The shape of the hot obstacle is selected as either circular or elliptical. Additionally, the effects of the Rayleigh number, nanoparticle volume fraction, and the position of the heat source are investigated. The computational fluid dynamics model was computed using COMSOL Multiphysics. It is observed that the average Nusselt number tends to increase with both the Rayleigh number and the volume fraction of nanoparticles in the fluid. When the heat source moves from the bottom region to the top area, the heat transfer performance of the heat source increases. When Ra ≤ 105, the cases with circular heat sources exhibit better heat transfer performance than those with elliptical heat sources. However, at Ra = 106, the average Nusselt number of the elliptical heat source is higher than that of the circular one.
Bildung für nachhaltige Entwicklung als Herausforderung für die Lehrer*innenbildung. Orientierungen von Lehramtsstudierenden zu Nachhaltigkeit und nachhaltigkeitsbezogener Bildung
Authors: Hinzke Jan-Hendrik , Herzig Tahnee , Weber Leonie
Published: September 2024

Nachhaltigkeit und Bildung für nachhaltige Entwicklung (BNE) stellen zwei Themen dar, die in den letzten Jahren an Bedeutung im gesellschaftlichen Diskurs gewonnen haben und mittlerweile auch in den Bereichen Schule und Lehrer*innenbildung politisch forciert werden. Studien zeigen jedoch, dass angehende Lehrpersonen in Deutschland nicht systematisch auf die Umsetzung einer BNE an Schulen vorbereitet werden. Vor dem Hintergrund, dass eine solche Umsetzung sowohl Herausforderungen im Bereich der Didaktik als auch im Bereich der Schulentwicklung mit sich bringt und eine professionelle Reflexion erfordert, präsentiert der Beitrag eine explorative Studie zu der Frage, welche Orientierungen Lehramtsstudierende bei der Beschäftigung mit Nachhaltigkeit und nachhaltigkeitsbezogener Bildung leiten. Auf Basis einer Auswertung von Gruppendiskussionen mit der Dokumentarischen Methode werden hierzu zwei kontrastierende Typen erkennbar: ‚Übertragung‘ und ‚Distanzierung‘. Diese Typen gehen mit divergierenden Verständnissen von Nachhaltigkeit und unterschiedlichen Umgangsformen mit der wahrgenommenen Norm nachhaltigen Handelns und der Umsetzung einer nachhaltigkeitsbezogenen Bildung in schulischen Kontexten einher. In der Diskussion werden diese Ergebnisse zum (bislang überschaubaren) Forschungsstand relationiert und darauf aufbauend Implikationen für die Lehrer*innenbildung formuliert.
Analysis of the influence of pipe materials on the energy separation effect in vortex tubes
Authors: Han Zhihong , Huang Zhiyuan , Liu Shuyang , Gan Dejun , Li Shenshen
Published: September 2024

In this study, we aim to enhance the efficiency and performance of vortex tubes by identifying the optimal material for their manufacture under specific conditions using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. We first establish a theoretical model of vortex tubes and propose a dynamic partition modeling method. Through theoretical analysis, we demonstrate the superiority of metallic materials in vortex tube applications, particularly regarding their energy distribution efficiency. We then conduct CFD simulations and experimental validations to systematically analyze the performance of vortex tubes made from different materials. The simulations utilize compressed air as the working fluid, with inlet pressures ranging from 0.1 MPa to 0.5 MPa. The materials considered include Copper, Aluminum, Steel, PVC, and Wood. Throughout the simulations, the cold mass fraction is maintained at 0.1, and the length-to-diameter ratio (L/D) of the vortex tube is set at 16. Using the standard k-ε model, steady-state numerical simulations of the gas flow inside the vortex tube are performed to analyze the variations in velocity, pressure, and temperature for different materials, pressures, and roughness conditions. Based on the physical properties of the materials, we find that metallic materials, particularly Copper, exhibit higher temperature gradients compared to non-metallic materials, with the order being Copper > Aluminum > Steel > PVC > Wood.
No Effect of Hunger on the Memory of Food Images and Prices
Authors: Neal Courtney , Pepper Gillian V. , Allen Caroline , Shannon Oliver M. , Nettle Daniel
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Food acquisition is an adaptive problem resolved via both physiological and psychological processes. Hunger could serve as a coordinating mechanism for these processes. When hunger increases, it may be beneficial to shift cognitive resources away from other adaptive problems and towards functions that increase the chances of acquiring food, such as memory for food information. However, there is limited research exploring the impacts of hunger on food-related memory, and the results are mixed. We conducted two studies investigating whether increased hunger levels improve memory for food images and prices – but not non-food images and prices – in image recognition and price recall tasks, respectively.

Methods

Study 1 was an online, observational study (N = 91) using self-reported hunger as a continuous measure. Study 2 was an in-person, between-subjects interventional study (N = 102) where participants were randomly allocated to a hungry or sated condition. We predicted that higher levels of hunger would improve participants’ ability to discriminate between food images they have and have not seen before and correctly recall food prices.

Results

We found no evidence of a hunger-related memory enhancement for food stimuli in either study in image recognition or price recall tasks.

Conclusion

Our findings contrast with older research but support more recent work, suggesting that the effect of hunger on food memory may be sensitive to study design and not as broadly generalisable as first thought.
Systems of first order ordinary differential equations allowing a given 3-dimensional Lie group as a subgroup of their symmetry group
Authors: Ficzere Kornélia , Figula Ágota
Published: September 2024

We determine systems of the first order ordinary differential equations such that their group of symmetries contains a three-dimensional Lie subgroup G. We represent the basis vectors of the Lie algebra $$\mathfrak {g}$$
g
of G by vector fields in the three-dimensional real space. Two cases are distinguished according to whether the infinitesimal generators of $$\mathfrak {g}$$
g
do not contain any component or contain component with respect to the independent variable of the system.
From Policy to Practice: Unpacking the Politics and Realities of Environmental Education Policy in Chinese Primary Schools
Authors: Zhou Ronghui (Kevin)
Published: September 2024

In recent years, China’s strong commitment to the political agenda of ecological civilisation has increased the presence of environmental education (EE) in the policy arena. Using the waste classification policy as an example, this research explores the implementation of EE policy in two Chinese primary schools. Through the use of a policy enactment framework, the findings reveal that contextual factors such as school enrolment, infrastructure and external influences from the District Bureau greatly influence the schools’ policy capacity. By exploring the internal policy flow and school artefacts, it was found that although the waste classification policy was enacted similarly in the selected primary schools, the outcomes differed significantly. These variations highlight the complexities and challenges of implementing an EE policy under ecological civilisation and contribute to the understanding of the tension between localised adaptations and the nationally politicised EE policy mandates.
Conceptual foundations for a clarified meaning of the 3Rs principles in animal experimentation
Authors: Louis-Maerten Edwin , Rodriguez Perez Christian , Cajiga Rosa Maria , Persson Kirsten , Elger Bernice Simone
Published: September 2024

Russell and Burch’s 1959 original definitions of the 3Rs (replacement, reduction and refinement) are widely used today as standards for the ethical use of non-human animals in research, although they have a number of limitations. Authors and institutions around the world have addressed some of these, coming up in certain cases with more accurate, functional, and up-to-date definitions. However, not only do there still remain limitations needing to be addressed, but some that have been addressed resulted in discrepancies, contradictions, and general confusion as to how best apply the 3Rs in practice. In order to clarify the meaning of the 3Rs and enable more optimal implementation of these principles in animal experimentation, this article provides a theoretical discussion for revised definitions of the original 3Rs via examination of some of their main limitations and inconsistencies. First, we offer up the original definitions as presented in the context of Russell and Burch’s bookThe Principles of Humane Experimental Technique.Then, we examine the main limitations and present clear specifications and requirements for such revised definitions. After presenting our revised definitions, we conclude with various implications for animal welfare within the context of experimentation.
Scenario Analysis in Karlsruhe: Exploring New Argumentative Steps of the Federal Constitutional Court
Authors: Tuzet Giovanni , Canale Damiano , Sardo Alessio
Published: September 2024

This Article examines scenario analysis, a disruptive argumentation technique used by the German Federal Constitutional Court (GFCC) in recent high-profile cases, such as the so-called climate protection case (Klimaschutz) and other decisions on the fundamental right to intergenerational justice (Grundrecht auf Generationengerechitgkeit). After explaining the basic argumentative steps involved in scenario analysis, for example designing scenarios, identifying stakeholders, relating scenarios to strategies, determining the main driving forces, estimating scenario probabilities, the Article sketches a normative model for rational scenario design. The normative model is used as a lens for evaluating the arguments developed by the GFCC in the climate protection case. Such evaluation also builds on game-theoretic insights and points out some weaknesses in the Court’s argument. Finally, the Article observes that, as scenario analysis is used to assess the future impact of legislative decisions, it has the effect of imposing greater constraints on legislatures.
Setting the Supreme Court’s Policy Agenda
Authors: Beim Deborah , Rader Kelly
Published: September 2024

We develop a new approach to understanding which legal questions the Supreme Court chooses to address. We show that the Supreme Court is more likely to resolve ideologically polarizing legal questions. This result is based on a new technique for estimating the ideology of a doctrine, which we implement using a dataset of intercircuit splits. We use this technique to identify legal issues that are ideologically polarizing and show they are more likely to be addressed by the Supreme Court than less polarizing issues. Our results demonstrate how the Supreme Court uses certiorari to advance its ideological policymaking goals.
Utrum sit una tantum vera enumeratio virtutum moralium (Whether There Is a Single Correct List of the Virtues of Character)
Authors: Chappell Sophie Grace
Published: September 2024

Virtue ethics tells us to ‘act in accordance with the virtues’, but can often be accused, for example, in Aristotle’s Ethics, of helping itself without argument to an account of what the virtues are. This paper is, stylistically, an affectionate tribute to the Angelic Doctor, and it works with a correspondingly Thomistic background and approach. In it I argue for the view that there is at least one correct list of the virtues, and that we can itemise at least seven items in the list, namely the four cardinal and three theological virtues.