bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single versus multiple reoperations for recurrent intracranial meningiomas
Authors: Maiuri Francesco , Corvino Sergio , Corazzelli Giuseppe , Del Basso De Caro Marialaura
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To identify the risk factors and management of the multiple recurrences and reoperations for intracranial meningiomas.

Methods

Data of a neurosurgical series of 35 patients reoperated on for recurrent intracranial meningiomas were reviewed. Analyzed factors include patient age and sex, tumor location, extent of resection, WHO grade, Ki67-MIB1 and PR expression at initial diagnosis, time to recurrence; pattern of regrowth, extent of resection, WHO grade and Ki67-MIB1 at first recurrence were also analyzed. All these factors were stratified into two groups based on single (Group A) and multiple reoperations (Group B).

Results

Twenty-four patients (69%) belonged to group A and 11 (31%) to group B. The age < 65 years, male sex, incomplete resection at both initial surgery and first reoperation, and multicentric-diffuse pattern of regrowth at first recurrence are risk factors for multiple recurrences and reoperations. In group B, the WHO grade and Ki67-MIB1 increased in further recurrences in 54% and 64%, respectively. The time to recurrence was short in 7 cases (64%), whereas 4 patients (36%) further recurred after many years. Eight patients (73%) are still alive after 7 to 22 years and 2 to 4 reoperations.

Conclusion

The extent of resection and the multicentric-diffuse pattern of regrowth at first recurrence are the main risk factors for multiple recurrences and reoperations. Repeated reoperations might be considered even in patients with extensive recurrent tumors before the anaplastic transformation occurs. In such cases, even partial tumor resections followed by radiation therapy may allow long survival in good clinical conditions.
Quality of life in Prolactinoma: A systematic review
Authors: Castle-Kirszbaum Mendel , Biermasz Nienke , Kam Jeremy , Goldschlager Tony
Published: April 2024

Background

Prolactinomas are common tumours that significantly reduce quality-of-life (QOL) due to sellar mass effect, secondary hypogonadism, and the peripheral effects of prolactin. Understanding the factors that influence QOL would provide insights into therapeutic targets to optimise patient outcomes and improve wellbeing in prolactinoma.

Methods

A systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement. Studies that reported patient QoL using validated metrics were included. Bias and methodological rigour were assessed using the MINORS criteria.

Results

A total of 18 studies were identified studies were available for review, comprising 877 patients. Most were small cross-sectional studies at high risk of bias. Prolactinoma exhibit worse QOL than healthy controls, particularly mental and psychosocial wellbeing. QOL is also worse than patients with non-functional adenomas, but better than those with Cushing’s disease and acromegaly. QOL correlates with prolactin levels, and approaches population baseline with prolonged biochemical control. Dopamine agonists and surgery both improve overall QOL, however improvements are more rapid with surgery.

Conclusion

Poor quality of life in prolactinoma is multifactorial, related to biochemical control, side effects of therapy, and sellar mass effect. Targeting persistent symptoms, reducing healthcare costs, and reducing side-effects of therapy are avenues to improving QOL in patients with prolactinoma.
Editorial − 2020 Real Estate Finance & Investment Symposium
Authors: Hoesli Martin , Lindenthal Thies , Ling David C. , Ooi Joseph
Published: April 2024

In September and October 2020, the Real Estate Finance & Investment Symposium, sponsored and organized by the University of Cambridge, the University of Florida, the University of Geneva, and the National University of Singapore, was held online, given the COVID-19 pandemic. Ten papers on various research topics were presented in five two-hour sessions spread over five days. Each presentation was followed by remarks from a discussant as well as general discussion from the audience. This editorial discusses the five papers from the symposium that are included in this special issue.
Performance evaluation of Word2vec accelerators exploiting spatial and temporal parallelism on DDR/HBM-based FPGAs
Authors: Waidyasooriya Hasitha Muthumala , Hariyama Masanori
Published: April 2024

Word embedding is a technique for representing words as vectors in a way that captures their semantic and syntactic relationships. The processing time of one of the most popular word embedding technique Word2vec is very large due to the huge data size. We evaluate the performance of a power-efficient FPGA-based accelerator designed using OpenCL. We achieved up to 18.7 times speed-up compared to single-core CPU implementation with the same accuracy. The proposed accelerator consumes less than 83 W of power and it is the most power-efficient one compared to many top-end CPU and GPU-based accelerators.
Identifying the Invisible Barriers to Diversifying the Teacher Pipeline: Dismantling Racialized Gatekeepers in Teacher Education
Authors: Agarwal-Rangnath Ruchi , Ayers Richard
Published: April 2024

In this mixed-methods study, we seek to understand the impact of the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) on the makeup of the teacher pipeline. We are specifically interested in exploring how teachers of color are impacted by these tests when seeking to enter the teacher workforce. Findings from the data, both qualitative and quantitative, provide evidence that the tests negatively impact all four racialized groups as labeled by the California Teaching Commission (African American, Asian American, Hispanic American, and Native American), while also conveying racialized messaged to candidates of color. In contrast to common rhetoric about the utility of these exams, we found the CSETs to hinder efforts to diversify the teacher.
"Connecting the Dots” for Recruiting Secondary Science Teachers in Urban Schools: An Exploration of Career Choice for Undergraduate Science Majors
Authors: Marco-Bujosa Lisa M. , Galczyk Amanda , Stannard Rachel , Koetting Peter , Friedman Audrey A.
Published: April 2024

Despite critical shortages of secondary science teachers in urban schools, relatively little research has focused on the recruitment of undergraduate science majors to teach in urban contexts. This study utilized a retrospective narrative inquiry methodology to explore the career pathways of 14 undergraduate science majors into secondary science teaching. The primary data source was interviews that were conducted at the beginning of an urban teacher education program. Interviews were analyzed through the framework of social cognitive career theory (SCCT) to identify the characteristics, beliefs, and experiences that featured prominently in their narrativizations of their career pathway into urban science education. Findings highlight a non-linear process of career choice characterized by three themes: rejecting traditional science careers, reevaluating their interests and skills for teaching, and prioritizing socially oriented career goals. Implications for enhancing the recruitment of undergraduate science majors into urban science teaching include transforming undergraduate science majors to value teaching careers and taking a more community-based approach to science teacher recruitment.
Description of postoperative complications and bacterial contamination of wound soaker catheters used to administer postoperative local analgesia after mastectomy in 11 dogs: case series
Authors: Suárez-Redondo María , Fuertes-Recuero Manuel , Guzmán-Soltero Alba , Aguado Delia , del Carmen Martín-Espada María , Espinel-Rupérez Jorge , Ortiz-Diez Gustavo
Published: April 2024

Mastectomy is a common and painful procedure in dogs. Wound soaker catheters (WSC) are frequently used to reduce postoperative pain, including pain after mastectomy. The objectives of this case series were to describe the use of WSC for owner administration of postoperative local analgesia in dogs with mammary tumors treated surgically, to identify complications associated with WSC and to determine the frequency of bacterial colonization of the catheters. Twelve WSC were placed in 11 dogs during mastectomy surgery, left in place for three days, protected by a dressing and successfully managed by owners at home. No postoperative antibiotics were administered. No complications were identified in any cases. No bacterial growth was identified on bacteriological analysis of the twelve WSC. These results suggest that the use of WSC is a safe alternative for postoperative analgesia administration following mastectomy in dogs. Future studies comparing dogs with or without WSC with a larger number of dogs are needed to further evaluate efficacy and complications.
Molecular evidence of sporadic Coxiella burnetii excretion in sheep milk, central Portugal
Authors: Pires Humberto , Santos-Silva Sérgio , Cruz Andreia V.S. , Cardoso Luís , Lopes Ana Patrícia , Pereira Maria A. , Nóbrega Carmen , Mega Ana Cristina , Santos Carla , Cruz Rita , Esteves Fernando , Vala Helena , Matos Ana Cristina , Barradas Patrícia F. , Coelho Ana Cláudia , Mesquita João R.
Published: April 2024

Coxiella burnetii is the etiologic agent of Q fever, a worldwide zoonosis. Cattle, sheep and goats are considered the main reservoirs of the disease. Transmission to humans occurs mainly through the inhalation of infectious aerosols from milk, faeces, urine, and birth products from infected ruminants. In this study, a 2-year longitudinal approach was performed to ascertain the excretion of C. burnetii in bulk tank milk samples of sheep from a mountain plateau in central Portugal, with sampling conducted during the years 2015 and 2016. From a total of 156 bulk tank milk samples tested by qPCR, only one showed to be positive for C. burnetii (1.28% [95%CI: 0.03–6.94]), from 2015, the first year of collection. Bidirectional sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of IS1111 transposase partial region confirmed the presence of C. burnetii DNA. The presence of C. burnetii in raw milk samples highlights the necessity for additional research to determine if raw milk is a potential source for human infection. Animal health surveillance and prevention measures against this zoonotic disease should be considered.
Evaluation of the Spreading Dynamics and Interactions of Lead-Carrier Microplastics Affected by Biofilm: A Mini-Review
Authors: Özgenç Enes
Published: April 2024

The toxic effect of microplastics (MPs) on living organisms is caused by the plastics and other pollutants attached to their surface. The interaction of MPs with hazardous toxic pollutants such as lead (Pb) is possible due to the large surface area of MPs and the high adsorption capacity of heavy metals such as Pb. When combined with toxic heavy metals, the interaction of MPs with aquatic environments and living organisms leads to environmental and biological problems. When MPs enter water, they form a biofilm under the influence of organic and inorganic substances, significantly altering the adsorption–desorption properties of the heavy metal. The current study aims to understand the effect of Pb-MP interaction on MPs by investigating biofilm formation in MPs. By reviewing the studies in the existing literature, the study analyses how biofilm formation affects the adsorption behavior of Pb heavy metal on the surface of MPs. Furthermore, future perspectives highlight potential research directions aiming to fill the knowledge gaps in this field. Addressing the challenges, it also highlights the need for a multidisciplinary approach to understanding microplastic and heavy metal interactions in aquatic ecosystems and to assess the long-term effects of these interactions on ecology and health.
Marine Biodegradation Behavior of Wool and Other Textile Fibers
Authors: Collie Stewart , Brorens Peter , Hassan Mohammed Mahbubul , Fowler Ian
Published: April 2024

Microplastic pollution is a growing concern for the earth’s terrestrial and marine environments. Synthetic fibers from textiles are one source of microplastic pollution as fibers may be released from garments during use and especially during laundering, whereby they may enter the aquatic environment via wastewater systems. Wool is a natural fiber, but it is often given treatments to enhance its performance, such as to make it resistant to shrinkage caused by machine washing. Treatments of this type might influence the fiber’s inherent biodegradability. We sought to understand the aquatic biodegradation behavior of wool (in its unmodified form, and chlorine-Hercosett shrink-resist treated) and a range of synthetic fibers that are used in similar clothing applications. The biodegradation test was carried out in a simulated marine environment using a natural seawater inoculant according to the ASTM D6691 method with some modifications. Biodegraded wool residues were characterized by Fourier transform infrared and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopies. The extent of fiber damage was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Both types of wool biodegraded readily under these conditions and machine-washable wool biodegraded to a greater extent than untreated wool. Regenerated cellulosic fiber (viscose rayon) also degraded readily, but all three synthetic fibers (polyester, nylon and polypropylene) showed virtually no biodegradation. Analysis of solid and liquid residues generated by the biodegraded wool showed no evidence that the chlorine-Hercosett-treated wool generated any non-degraded residues. Based on these findings we believe that, unlike synthetics, wool fibers are very unlikely to lead to microplastic pollution in the aquatic environment.
Top-down characterization of resource use in LCA: from problem definition of resource use to operational characterization factors for resource inaccessibility of elements in a short-term time perspective
Authors: van Oers Lauran , Guinée Jeroen B. , Heijungs Reinout , Schulze Rita , Alvarenga Rodrigo A. F. , Dewulf Jo , Drielsma Johannes
Published: April 2024

Purpose

When resources are extracted and used by society, they are not necessarily lost for future generations. Therefore, recent publications on impact assessment of abiotic resource use in life cycle assessment focus on a decreased accessibility of resources due to dissipation, rather than depletion. In a previous study, dissipation was defined as a function of the global change in accessible stock due to human actions, and the global amount of the accessible stock, assuming a very long-term time perspective (more than 500 years). In this paper, a short-term time perspective (25 years) is adopted.

Methods

The same generic characterization model is used, but different choices are outlined to derive characterization factors for a short-term perspective (25 years). To illustrate how the short term might be approached, a preliminary set of characterization factors is developed, based on assumptions and estimates.

Results

The problem of resource use is defined as follows: the decrease of accessibility on a global level of primary and/or secondary elements over the short term due to the net result of compromising actions (i.e., emissions, dissipation in the technosphere, occupation in use, and exploration for new stocks). Characterization factors are derived based on assumptions, like the following: the accessible stock is based on present estimates of accessible stocks in the environment and the technosphere; estimates of accessible stocks in the technosphere are based on past extractions and generic recycling rates; all flows that are presently not recycled are assumed to be inaccessible. Finally, weighting between elements and the functions they have for the present society is based on the added value of the economic sector that is affected due to the decreased accessibility.

Discussion and conclusion

A preliminary set of characterization factors is proposed for 55 elements. They assess the impact of the present use of resources on the decreased accessibility in the short term due to emissions and dissipation in the technosphere. However, calculation of impact category scores is still hampered by a lack of appropriate data for dissipative flows in life cycle inventory databases. The presented calculations are based on several simplifications and proxies. A more detailed distinction of dissipative flows and estimates of stocks in the technosphere may be possible based on (dynamic) SFA modelling of elements in different applications. To derive a more mature set of characterization factors, it is recommended to use the presented model as a basis and further elaborate or replace the proxies.
Coxa pedis: can calcaneal pronation angle be considered a predictive sign of medial plantar arch overload?
Authors: Calvi Marco , Grasso Dario , Sollami Giulia , Lamantea Silvia , Gatta Tonia , Gnesutta Aroa , Novario Raffaele , Aliprandi Alberto , Genovese Eugenio Annibale
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To assess whether a correlation between the calcaneal pronation angle and the presence of internal plantar arch overload signs (such as upper-medial spring ligament lesion, posterior tibial tendon tenosynovitis, etc.) could lead to a better understanding of coxa pedis pathology.

Material and methods

One hundred ankle MRIs of consecutive patients were retrospectively reviewed measuring the calcaneal pronation angle and either the presence or absence of internal plantar arch overload signs. Next, the association of overload signs with increasing pronation angle was evaluated to establish a cut-off point beyond which coxa pedis pathology could be defined.

Results

The tibial-calcaneal angle values in patients with and without effusion proved to be significantly different (p < 0.0001). The tibial-calcaneal angle values in patients with and without oedema also demonstrated a significant difference (p < 0.0056). Regarding posterior tibial tendon, a significant difference was found between the two groups (p < 0.0001). For plantar fascia enthesopathy, the result was borderline significant (p < 0.054). A linear correlation was found between the value of pronation angle and the extent of spring ligament injury (p < 0.0001). In contrast, no correlation with age was found.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the literature associates medial longitudinal plantar arch overload with posterior tibial tendinopathy and spring ligament complex injuries. Our data show that both injuries are highly correlated with increased calcaneal pronation angle, which could be considered a predictive sign of internal plantar arch overload, prior to the development of the associated signs.
The possibilities and limits of international status: Evidence from foreign aid and public opinion
Authors: Ferry Lauren , O’Brien-Udry Cleo
Published: April 2024

States use symbolic gestures to increase their international status, or relative po- sition, within the international community. But how do the status-seeking actions of one state affect the status of others? The common assumption is that improvements in one state’s status lead to the relative deterioration of other states’ status by compari- son. In this paper, we focus on status’ social qualities to delineate multiple theoretical pathways through which one state’s status can change – or not – relative to another. Status is not conferred in a vacuum and the consequences of status-altering activities may spill over to third parties. We field an original survey and reanalyze several exist- ing studies to understand how relative status operates in the case of foreign aid; these surveys reveal novel empirical patterns about the circumstances under which a state’s status will update relative to other states. We extend the analysis to examine who updates perceptions, what actions change status, and for whom status changes. Our findings suggest that status-enhancing actions may be successful at augmenting status amongst peers, but ultimately unsuccessful at changing global hierarchies.
HR analytics between ambition and reality
Authors: Gerber Marius , Krause Andreas , Probst Jonas , Heimann Michael
Published: April 2024

This exploratory study in the Journal “Group. Interaction. Organization” investigated the degree of implementation and the benefits of HR Analytics in Switzerland. As part of the study, 133 companies were surveyed. In addition, 12 interviews were conducted to obtain more in-depth insights into the core results. The results show that the majority of companies are still primarily doing backward-looking descriptive data analytics. Furthermore, there is a gap between expectations and actual achievements associated with HR Analytics. The interviews make it clear that data quality and the necessary competences are key challenges in terms of implementation. In order to achieve greater benefits with HR Analytics, the insights gained should lead to the implementation of measures and clearer reference to business-relevant parameters. Therefore, fully realizing the high potential of HR Analytics will require additional effort. In the discussion section, we consider the current literature and, based on our results, derive practical implications for a better establishment of HR Analytics. We also discuss the potential of Work and Organizational Psychology to shape the rapidly growing field of HR Analytics.
Role of triglyceride-glucose index in metabolic assessment of sarcoidosis patients
Authors: Rizzi Luigi , Coppola Chiara , Hbaidi Yaqob , Russo Riccardo , Crudele Lucilla , Moschetta Antonio , Suppressa Patrizia
Published: April 2024

Sarcoidosis is a rare granulomatous disease that can affect any organ. It leads to an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, due to biochemical pathways involved in low-grade inflammation in both diseases. The aim of our retrospective case–control study was to evaluate the utility of triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, a surrogate of insulin resistance, for metabolic assessment of sarcoidosis patients. A cohort of 90 sarcoidosis patients and a cohort of 90 control subjects were enrolled. Clinical, anamnestic, and biochemical data were collected. Results showed that TyG index values were higher in the sarcoidosis cohort than in the control group (p < 0.001), even after excluding the influence of diabetes and metabolic syndrome (p = 0.018). In the sarcoidosis cohort, TyG index was not correlated with clinical phenotyping (p = 0.358), gender (p = 0.139), radiological stage (p = 0.656), glucocorticoids cumulative dose (p = 0.682) or treatment regimen (p = 0.093), while significant positive correlations with waist circumference (p < 0.001), systolic and diastolic pressure (p = 0.041 and p = 0.029, respectively), Framingham score (p = 0.007) were found. Receiving operating characteristics curve analysis identified a TyG index optimal cut-off value of 8.64 (66.7% sensitivity, 77.8% specificity, area under the curve -AUC- 75%, 95% confidence interval -CI- 65–85, p < 0.001) to detect metabolic syndrome and a cut-off value of 8.69 (64.1% sensitivity, 70.6% specificity; AUC 67%, 95% CI 55–78, p = 0.007) to detect an intermediate cardiovascular risk according to Framingham risk score. Concluding, TyG index can be considered a useful tool for the metabolic assessment of sarcoidosis patients, given its capacity to predict metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk.
Sustainable development through frugal innovation: the role of leadership, entrepreneurial bricolage and knowledge diversity
Authors: Iqbal Qaisar , Piwowar-Sulej Katarzyna , Kallmuenzer Andreas
Published: April 2024

Frugal innovation through frugal functionality, frugal cost, and frugal ecosystems that reduce goods to their essential features has emerged as a highly effective method to improve sustainable development across societies, in developed countries as well as in developing countries. Drawing on social exchange theory and effectuation theory, this study examines the indirect effect of diversified knowledge sharing on the relationship of sustainability-oriented leadership with frugal innovation and the conditional role of entrepreneurial bricolage. The study utilized data collected from 223 representatives of small and medium enterprises in Poland. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to test the proposed hypotheses. The results confirmed that sustainability-oriented leadership indirectly and significantly affects frugal functionality and costs through both internal and external diversified knowledge sharing. Yet, internal diversified knowledge sharing does not mediate the sustainability-oriented leadership–frugal ecosystem relationship. The findings show that the sustainability-oriented leadership–external diversified knowledge sharing relationship amplifies with increasing values of entrepreneurial bricolage. However, the sustainability-oriented leadership–internal diversified knowledge sharing relationship does not change in the presence of entrepreneurial bricolage. This pioneering study explores the interactions between sustainability-oriented leadership, entrepreneurial bricolage, and internal as well as external diversified knowledge sharing with regards to frugal innovation. It uncovers the underlying processes of frugal innovation and improved frugal innovation performance, facilitates the integration of knowledge, recognises successful approaches to leadership, creates initiatives for leadership development, and offers actionable insights for organisations aiming to cultivate frugal innovation.
Investigation of emissions from passenger flights Denizli Çardak Airport, Türkiye
Authors: Çil Mehmet Ali , Tarhan Cevahir
Published: April 2024

Due to developing aviation sector, number of aircraft in the world is increasing. Along with this development, problems such as the decrease in air quality in and around the airport also arise. In this study, it is tried to calculate pollutant emissions occurring in 2022 during the LTO cycles of Denizli Çardak Airport in Turkey. These calculations are based on the information obtained from ICAO Engine Emission Data Bank and flight information published by the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (GDSAA). As a result of the data obtained, 74.64 ton/year pollutants (NOx-37.148 t/y, CO-35.398 t/y and HC-2.094 t/y) were calculated for 2022 at Denizli Çardak Airport. Of all emissions, NOx accounted for 50%, CO 47% and HC 3%. In the LTO cycle, the most fuel is burned in taxi cycle and pollutant emissions produced in this cycle are greater. With a 2 min reduction in taxi time, there will be an approximate 6.8% reduction in the total emission rate in the LTO cycle. Similarly, with a 4 min reduction in taxi time, there will be a 13.72% reduction in the whole emission rate in the LTO cycle. Unlike other studies, in this study the emission rates of various engines were compared. It has been calculated that the amount of pollutant emissions produced by the new generation Boeing 737 MAX LEAP-1B powered aircraft in LTO cycle is 25% less than the amount of pollutant emissions produced by the Airbus A320 NEO LEAP-1 A powered aircraft. The biggest factor here is that the emission of CO pollutants is less. Considering the emission rates produced by these four different engines (B737-800 CFM56-7B, A320 V2500-A1, B737 MAX LEAP-1B, A320 NEO LEAP-1 A), the Airbus A320 V2500-A1 engine is a more environmentally friendly engine than the other engines.
Efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction of norditropin and sogroya in patients with growth hormone deficiency: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Altobaishat Obieda , Abouzid Mohamed , Moawad Mostafa Hossam El Din , Sharaf Abdulrahman , Al-Ajlouni Yazan , Umar Tungki Pratama , Bani-salameh Abdallah , Tanashat Mohammad , Bataineh Omar Abdullah , Nashwan Abdulqadir J.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Growth hormone deficiency occurs when the pituitary gland does not produce enough growth hormone. Norditropin®, a recombinant human growth hormone, and Sogroya®, an albumin-binding growth hormone derivative, are prescribed for patients with growth hormone deficiency. This systematic review assesses the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction associated with Norditropin and Sogroya.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases to identify eligible comparative studies. All studies published until June 2023 were included in our analysis. Our outcomes for children included height velocity and height velocity standard deviation score. In contrast, adult outcomes included adverse events, insulin-like growth factor 1-standard deviation score (IGF-1 SDS), and the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication-9 (TSQM-9). Results are reported as odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

Ten studies involving 1058 participants (665 children and 393 adults) were included in the meta-analysis. In children, Norditropin at doses of 0.034 and 0.067 mg/kg/day was compared to Sogroya at doses of 0.04, 0.08, 0.16, and 0.24 mg/kg/week. The results showed that 0.034 mg/kg/day Norditropin had a favorable impact on height velocity (MD −2.01, 95% CI −3.7 to −2.12, p < 0.00001) and height velocity standard deviation score (Mean Difference −3.61, 95% CI −5.06 to −2.16, p < 0.00001) when compared to Sogroya 0.04 mg/kg/day. Other doses showed comparable results. In adults, the only significant side effect noted was rash, which favored Sogroya (OR 0.1, 95% CI 0.04–0.27, p < 0.00001). Additionally, IGF-1 SDS was significantly higher in the Sogroya group than in the Norditropin group (MD 0.25, 95% CI 0.02–0.48, p = 0.03). Furthermore, the overall score of the TSQM-9 questionnaire, which includes three domains: convenience, effectiveness, and satisfaction, was significantly higher in the Sogroya group compared to the Norditropin group (OR 6.36, 95% CI 3.92–8.8, p < 0.00001).

Conclusion

Norditropin and Sogroya showed comparable efficacy and safety profiles, except for the prevalence of rash in the Norditropin group, and Sogroya has higher satisfaction among adults. More high-quality studies with more patients are required to confirm these results.
Travelling wave solution of fourth order reaction diffusion equation using hybrid quintic hermite splines collocation technique
Authors: Priyanka Priyanka , Mebarek-Oudina Fateh , Sahani Saroj , Arora Shelly
Published: April 2024

Fourth order extended Fisher Kolmogorov reaction diffusion equation has been solved numerically using a hybrid technique. The temporal direction has been discretized using Crank Nicolson technique. The space direction has been split into second order equation using twice continuously differentiable function. The space splitting results into a system of equations with linear heat equation and non linear reaction diffusion equation. Quintic Hermite interpolating polynomials have been implemented to discretize the space direction which gives a system of collocation equations to be solved numerically. The hybrid technique ensures the fourth order convergence in space and second order in time direction. Unconditional stability has been obtained by plotting the eigen values of the matrix of iterations. Travelling wave behaviour of dependent variable has been obtained and the computed numerical values are shown by surfaces and curves for analyzing the behaviour of the numerical solution in both space and time directions.
Longer Term Follow-up on Acuity Circle Allocation Strategies in Liver Transplantation
Authors: Kwong Allison J. , Jowell Ashley , Bambha Kiran , Biggins Scott W.
Published: April 2024

Purpose of Review

This review summarizes longer term follow-up of acuity circle–based distribution for livers, which was implemented on February 4, 2020.

Recent Findings

After 2 years of policy implementation, the likelihood of transplant increased, while removals for death or being too sick decreased. The median transplant score was unchanged, and the variance in the median MELD at transplant decreased for OPTN regions, DSA, and state. Concurrently, median distance from donor to transplant hospital and cold ischemia times increased. A slight increase in liver non-use rate and decrease in liver utilization rate has been observed.

Acuity circle–based distribution improved access to liver transplantation for the sickest patients through broader sharing, at the cost of increased travel and logistics. The continuous distribution framework may be an opportunity for the liver transplant community to further address geographic disparities in access to transplant in the United States.
Comment: Injuries that Hurt – A Comment to “Embitterment – Conception of a Potential Moderator to Dysfunctional and Aggressive Behaviour in Children and Adolescents”
Authors: Hardecker David J. K. , Schmitz Julian
Published: April 2024

This comment discusses the article of Balder and Linden (2022), who debate the existence and role of embitterment in child and adolescent psychopathology. This topic appears highly relevant, but broader literature should be integrated when talking about embitterment. First, we question the conceptualization of embitterment as an emotion. We conceptualize it as a long-term emotion episode that stems from events involving severe and unresolved hurt feelings, also referred to as attachment injuries and narcissistic injuries. When overly intense, they might lead to PTED. In contrast to Balder and Linden (2022), we argue that specific psychotherapeutic treatments exist. Nonetheless, we join Balder and Linden (2022) in calling for more attention for embitterment and hurt feelings and their role in developmental psychopathology.
Effect of Two-Step Solution Treatments on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of B357 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Akar Neset , Sahin Omer , Kilicli Volkan
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the effect of two-step solution treatments and aging times on the microstructure and mechanical properties of B357 Al–Si alloy, part of the most widely used cast aluminum alloy. Three sets of artificial aging heat treatments were conducted on the tensile samples prepared from B357 alloy produced by low-pressure die casting. Firstly, the conventional artificial aging heat treatment (T6) was carried out by solutionizing the tensile samples at 543 °C for 8.5 h, water quenching at 60 °C, and then artificially aging for 8.5 h at 160 °C. In the two-step solution treatment, the samples were solutionized at 400, 440, 480, and 520 °C for 4 h and then solutionized at 543 °C for 8.5 h and water quenched to 60 °C and then artificially aged for 8.5 h at 160 °C. Thirdly, the samples were solutionized at 480 °C for 4 h, solutionized at 543 °C for 8.5 h, water quenched to 60 °C, and artificially aged for 3–192 h. Despite different solutioning and aging processes, no significant differences were observed in the microstructures of the samples. Si particle coarsening was observed with increasing solution temperature (400–520 °C) and aging times (3–192 h). Si-containing dispersoids and dispersoid-free zones (DFZ) were observed in the primary-α matrix. While DFZ width increased with temperature and aging, dispersoid zones in primary-α dendrites significantly decreased. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis shows that two-step solution treatment in B357 alloy increases β′ precipitates for Mg2Si precipitation strengthening. The two-step solutionized and aged sample showed the best combination of strength and ductility among all aged samples. B357 alloy exhibited the highest yield and tensile strength (309.7, 366.1 MPa) with 6% elongation for two-step solutionizing and 48 h aging. All aged B357 alloys showed ductile fracture as the primary fracture mode. However, brittle fractured Si particles were observed on the fracture surfaces.
COVID-related stressors, psychological distress and social support in Atlantic Canadian University students
Authors: Fowler Ken , Escoto-Rivera Andrea Lorena , Hesson Jacqueline , Button Pamela
Published: April 2024

This study explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) undergraduate and graduate students. Using the National College Health Assessment (third revision) (NCHA-III) survey, the relationship between COVID-related stressors and mental health was assessed after controlling for demographic, economic, and academic variables, and reported mental illness. A hierarchical regression revealed that psychological distress was higher for students who were undergraduate, female, of lower family income, with a pre-existing anxiety or depressive disorder. Psychological distress was also predicted by direct COVID stressors (e.g., fear of infection), as well as indirect stressors, including worries about employment and tuition, professor/instructor support, campus efforts to ensure safety, and discrimination/hostility due to race/ethnicity. Chi Square tests subsequently revealed that graduate students were more likely to be concerned about the threat COVID-19 posed to loved ones, separation from family/friends, and pandemic duration, while undergraduates were more likely concerned about returning to school, tuition, employment, and the legitimacy of their degree. Undergraduates were also more likely to have witnessed discrimination/hostility, and less likely to report professor/instructor support. Finally, independent t tests revealed that undergraduate students were significantly lower in overall social support, as well as for particular subdomains including ‘guidance’, ‘social integration’, and ‘reassurance of worth’. Interpretation of the findings and implications are considered.
Designing Behavioural Insights for Policy
Authors: Mukherjee Ishani , Mussagulova Assel
Published: April 2024

The diversity of knowledge surrounding behavioural insights (BI) means in the policy sciences, although visible, remains under-theorized with scant comparative and generalizable explorations of the procedural prerequisites for their effective design, both as stand-alone tools and as part of dedicated policy 'toolkits'. While comparative analyses of the content of BI tools has proliferated, the knowledge gap about the procedural needs of BI policy design is growing recognizably, as the range of BI responses grows in practice necessitating specific capabilities, processes and institutional frameworks to be in place for their design. This Element draws on the literature on policy design and innovation adoption to explore the administrative, institutional and capacity endowments of governments for the successful and appropriate integration of BI in existing policy frameworks. Further, we present three illustrative cases with respect to their experience of essential procedural endowments facilitating for the effective integration of BI in policy design.
Cranial and Spinal Tuberculosis Infections including Acute Presentations
Authors: Shetty Veekshith , Bhatt Pragnesh
Published: April 2024

Central nervous system, affliction, although rare, represents one of the most severe extra-pulmonary manifestations of tuberculosis, potentially leading to substantial morbidity and mortality if not promptly addressed. Cranial tuberculosis can manifest in various forms, including tuberculomas, encephalitis, abscesses, and meningitis, with the latter being the most critical and carrying a poor prognosis if left untreated. Spinal tuberculosis, accounting for approximately 50% of musculoskeletal TB cases, can present with a spectrum of symptoms, ranging from simple back pain to more severe neurological deficits such as weakness and deformity. Anti-tuberculosis medications remain the cornerstone of treatment, and this Element offers an algorithmic approach to managing referrals of suspected tuberculosis, incorporating pertinent clinical information to facilitate effective decision-making.
More is Less
Authors: Halonen-Akatwijuka Maija , Hart Oliver
Published: April 2024

Why are contracts incomplete? Transaction costs and bounded rationality cannot be a total explanation since states of the world are often describable, foreseeable, and yet are not mentioned in a contract. Asymmetric information theories also have limitations. We offer an explanation based on 'contracts as reference points'. Including a contingency of the form, 'The buyer will require a good in event ', has a benefit and a cost. The benefit is that if occurs there is less to argue about; the cost is that the additional reference point provided by the outcome in can hinder (re)negotiation in states outside. We show that if parties agree about a reasonable division of surplus, an incomplete contract is strictly superior to a contingent contract. If parties have different views about the division of surplus, an incomplete contract can be superior if including a contingency would lead to divergent reference points.
Khintchine-type double recurrence in abelian groups
Authors: ACKELSBERG ETHAN
Published: April 2024

We prove a Khintchine-type recurrence theorem for pairs of endomorphisms of a countable discrete abelian group. As a special case of the main result, if

$\Gamma $

is a countable discrete abelian group,

$\varphi , \psi \in \mathrm {End}(\Gamma )$

, and

$\psi - \varphi $

is an injective endomorphism with finite index image, then for any ergodic measure-preserving

$\Gamma $

-system

$( X, {\mathcal {X}}, \mu , (T_g)_{g \in \Gamma } )$

, any measurable set

$A \in {\mathcal {X}}$

, and any

${\varepsilon }> 0$

, there is a syndetic set of

$g \in \Gamma$

such that

$\mu ( A \cap T_{\varphi(g)}^{-1} A \cap T_{\psi(g)}^{-1} A ) > \mu(A)^3 - \varepsilon$

. This generalizes the main results of Ackelsberg et al [Khintchine-type recurrence for 3-point configurations. Forum Math. Sigma10 (2022), Paper no. e107] and essentially answers a question left open in that paper [Question 1.12; Khintchine-type recurrence for 3-point configurations. Forum Math. Sigma10 (2022), Paper no. e107]. For the group

$\Gamma = {\mathbb {Z}}^d$

, the result applies to pairs of endomorphisms given by matrices whose difference is non-singular. The key ingredients in the proof are: (1) a recent result obtained jointly with Bergelson and Shalom [Khintchine-type recurrence for 3-point configurations. Forum Math. Sigma10 (2022), Paper no. e107] that says that the relevant ergodic averages are controlled by a characteristic factor closely related to the quasi-affine (or Conze–Lesigne) factor; (2) an extension trick to reduce to systems with well-behaved (with respect to

$\varphi $

and

$\psi $

) discrete spectrum; and (3) a description of Mackey groups associated to quasi-affine cocycles over rotational systems with well-behaved discrete spectrum.
Air-blast atomization of a liquid film
Authors: Oshima Ippei , Sou Akira
Published: April 2024

Air-blast atomizers are extensively used for a variety of purposes. Due to its complexity, the atomization mechanism has not been elucidated. In this study, a mechanistic model is proposed to predict the droplet diameter distribution based on the atomization process of a planar liquid film with co-current gas flows, and its validity is examined by comparing the estimated and measured droplet diameters using high-speed image analysis and laser measurement. As a result, using high-speed imaging, we clarified that the bag film rupture is caused not by the turbulence of the gas flow but by the impact of floating droplets on the liquid film of the expanding bag when the film is thin enough. The average thickness of the liquid film at the bag breakup is of the order of micrometres and varies greatly, resulting in a dispersed distribution of droplet diameters. After the film ruptures, the bag film shrinks towards its transversal and vertical rims due to surface tension, forming large-diameter ligaments. During the contraction process of the bag film, tiny droplets of the order of micrometers are formed at the edge of the perforation. Finally, the remaining ligaments with large diameters fragment into large droplets with submillimetre diameters. The good agreement between the measured and predicted droplet diameter distributions validated the mechanistic model.
Heavy tails and probability density functions to any nonlinear order for the surface elevation in irregular seas
Authors: Klahn Mathias , Zhai Yanyan , Fuhrman David R.
Published: April 2024

The probability density function (PDF) for the free surface elevation in an irregular sea has an integral formulation when based on the cumulant generating function. To leading order, the result is Gaussian, whereas nonlinear extensions have long been limited to Gram–Charlier series approximations. As shown recently by Fuhrman et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 970, 2023, A38), however, the second-order integral can be represented exactly in closed form. The present work extends this further, enabling determination of this PDF to even higher orders. Towards this end, a new ordinary differential equation (ODE) governing the PDF is first derived. Asymptotic solutions in the limit of large surface elevation are then found, utilizing the method of dominant balance. These provide new analytical forms for the positive tail of the PDF beyond second order. These likewise clarify how high-order cumulants (involving statistical moments such as the kurtosis) govern the tail, which is shown to get heavier with each successive order. The asymptotic solutions are finally utilized to generate boundary conditions, such that the governing ODE may be solved numerically, enabling novel determination of the PDF at third and higher order. Successful comparisons with challenging data sets confirm accuracy. The methodology thus enables the PDF of the surface elevation to be determined numerically, and the asymptotic tail analytically, to any desired order. Results are worked out explicitly up to fifth order. The theoretical probability of extreme surface elevations (typical of rogue waves) may thus be assessed quantitatively for highly nonlinear irregular seas, requiring only relevant statistical quantities as input.
Scottish History in the Eyes of Sixteenth-Century France
Authors: Blakeway Amy
Published: April 2024

Scotland's mythical and medieval history has long been acknowledged as of critical importance in its sixteenth-century present. This article tracks these discourses across the channel, showing for the first time the limited circulation of Scottish histories in France and the dominance of English versions of the past in French texts, ranging from short, printed books to royal presentation manuscripts. This Anglocentric view not only helps to explain the discordant French views of the Scots (as loyal yet uncivil, and above all warlike) but also contributes to the ongoing reassessment that the auld alliance was not permanently binding but, rather, intermittently activated when political or economic interests required.
Predictability Puzzles
Authors: Eraker Bjørn
Published: April 2024

Dynamic equilibrium models based on present value computation not only imply that returns are predictable but also generate particular short-term patterns of predictability in asset returns. I take advantage of this to construct a set of tests of equilibrium generated predictability (EGP). I apply the tests to document two puzzles: First, option-implied or realized measures of volatility ought to predict returns but do not; and second, the variance risk premium (VRP) predicts returns but only at long horizons. VRP fails the tests of EGP as the term structure of predictable variation is inconsistent with an equilibrium interpretation.