bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wird der Einsatz der virtuellen Realität in der HNO-Heilkunde-Lehre von Studierenden automatisch positiv bewertet?
Authors: Offergeld C. , Kuhn S. , Kromeier J. , Heermann S. , Widder A. , Flayyih O. , Everad F. , Knopf A. , Albrecht T. , Burkhardt V. , Hildenbrand T. , Ramackers W.
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund

Analog zu anderen Fachdisziplinen hat auch die digitale HNO-Heilkunde-Lehre deutliche Fortschritte während der Pandemiezeit verzeichnen können. So waren die HNO-Kliniken bundesweit vergleichsweise zeitig in der Lage, ein komplettes virtuelles Lehrangebot, auch unter Einsatz von innovativen Formaten, aufzubieten. Dies wurde entsprechend in studentischen Lehrevaluationen gewürdigt. Durch den zwischenzeitlich vermehrten Einsatz der virtuellen Realität (VR) in der Lehre sollte eine höhere Zufriedenheit durch eine Verbesserung der Lehrqualität zu erwarten sein.

Material und Methoden

Es wurden Studierende (n = 180) nach Absolvierung des HNO-Blockpraktikums im Sommersemester 2023 mittels standardisiertem Fragenbogen befragt. Ziel der Evaluation war es, die Zufriedenheit und die Einschätzung der Effektivität der neu implementierten Methode VR zu ermitteln. Die VR wurde zur Vermittlung der Ohranatomie und der Koniotomie eingesetzt. Vergleichend wurde die VR mit den Inhalt Koniotomie auch bei Assistenzärzt:innen eingesetzt und evaluiert.

Ergebnisse

Die Lehrveranstaltung wurde mit einem Mittelwert von 11,7 auf einer Punkteskala bis 15 (wie in der Oberstufe der Schulen) von den Studierenden positiv wahrgenommen. Die Effektivität und der Stellenwert des Einsatzes der VR im HNO-Lernportfolio wurden von den Studierenden unterschiedlich bewertet und fand nicht den erwarteten uneingeschränkten Zuspruch. Anders gestaltete sich die Beurteilung bei den Assistenzärzt:innen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die VR stellt einen innovativen und vielseitigen Baustein im Lehrportfolio der HNO-Heilkunde dar. Diese neue Lehrmethode wird als zukunftsorientiertes Tool angesehen und akzeptiert. Dabei votierten die beteiligten Ärzte durchweg positiv, während die Studierenden im individuellen und subjektiven Bereich eher kritische Beurteilungen abgaben und Limitationen aufzeigten. Dies steht im Gegensatz zu den von den Interessenvertretungen der Studierenden geforderten Weiterentwicklung innovativer Lehrmethoden.
Pumping Lemmas Can be “Harmful”
Authors: Xie Jingnan , Hunt III Harry B. , Stearns Richard E.
Published: April 2024

A pumping lemma for a class of languages $$\varvec{\mathcal {C}}$$

C

is often used to show particular languages are not in $$\varvec{\mathcal {C}}$$

C

. In contrast, we show that a pumping lemma for a class of languages $$\varvec{\mathcal {C}}$$

C

can be used to study the computational complexity of the predicate “$$\in \varvec{\mathcal {C}}$$

∈

C

” via highly efficient many-one reductions. In this paper, we use extended regular expressions (EXREGs, introduced in Câmpeanu et al. (Int. J. Foundations Comput. Sci. 14(6), 1007–1018, 2003)) as an example to illustrate the proof technique and establish the complexity of the predicate “is an EXREG language” for several classes of languages. Due to the efficiency of the reductions, both productiveness (a stronger form of non-recursive enumerability) and complexity results can be obtained simultaneously. For example, we show that the predicate “is an EXREG language” is productive (hence, not recursively enumerable) for context-free grammars, and is Co-NEXPTIME-hard for context-free grammars generating bounded languages. The proof technique is easy to use and requires only a few conditions. This suggests that for any class of languages $$\varvec{\mathcal {C}}$$

C

having a pumping lemma, the language class comparison problems (e.g., does a given context-free grammar generate a language in $$\varvec{\mathcal {C}}$$

C

?) are almost guaranteed to be hard. So, pumping lemmas sometimes could be “harmful” when studying computational complexity results.
Study on impact of robotic-assisted orthopaedic industrial noise (SIREN)
Authors: Goffin Joaquim , MacRae Emma , Farrow Luke , Whittaker Duncan , Dixon James , Rankin Iain , Krishnamurthy Anjan , Stevenson Iain
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate noise exposure to the operating room staff consisting of the surgeon, assistant, anaesthetist and Mako Product Specialist (MPS) during Mako robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA). We aimed to determine whether employees were exposed to noise at or above a lower exposure action value (LEAV) set out by the Noise at Work Regulations 2005, Health and Safety Executive (HSE), UK.

Materials and methods

We prospectively recorded intra-operative noise levels in Mako robotic-arm assisted TKA and THA over a period of two months using the MicW i436 connected to an iOS device (Apple), using the Sound Level Meter App (iOS) by the National Institute for Occupation Safety and Health (NIOSH). Data obtained was then used to calculate “worst case” daily exposure value to assess if sound levels were compliant with UK guidelines. Comparison between operating room staff groups was performed with ANOVA testing.

Results

A total of 19 TKA and 11 THA operations were recorded. During TKA, for the primary surgeon and the assistant, the equivalent continuous sound pressure level (LAeq) was over 80 dB, exceeding the LEAV set out by the Noise at Work Regulations by HSE. During THA, the average LAeq and peak sound pressure levels did not exceed the LEAV. The calculated daily exposure for the primary surgeon in TKA was 82 dB. A Tukey post hoc test revealed that LAeq was statistically significantly lower in the anaesthetist and MPS (p < .001) compared to the primary surgeon and assistant in both TKA and THA.

Conclusions

Operating room staff, particularly the primary surgeon and assistant are exposed to significant levels of noise during Mako robotic-arm assisted TKA and THA. Formal assessments should be performed to further assess the risk of noise induced hearing loss in robotic-arm assisted arthroplasty.
Low platelet count at diagnosis of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis is correlated with the severity of disease and renal prognosis
Authors: Jin Yanli , Wang Fangyuan , Tang Jiale , Luo Liying , Huang Lingyu , Zhou Fangyu , Qi Enyu , Hu Xinyue , Deng Shuanglinzi , Ge Huan , Jiang Yuanyuan , Feng Juntao , Li Xiaozhao
Published: April 2024

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis (AAV) is an autoimmune disease that involves inflammation of blood vessels. There is increasing evidence that platelets play a crucial role not only in hemostasis but also in inflammation and innate immunity. In this study, we explored the relationship between platelet count, clinical characteristics, and the prognosis of patients with AAV. We divided 187 patients into two groups based on their platelet count. Clinicopathological data and prognostic information were retrospectively gathered from medical records. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for prognosis, including end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and mortality. The cutoff point for platelet count was set at 264.5 × 109/L, as determined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for predicting progression to ESRD in patients with AAV. We observed patients with low platelet count (platelets < 264.5 × 109/L) had lower leukocytes, hemoglobin, complement, acute reactants, and worse renal function (P for eGFR < 0.001). They were also more likely to progress to ESRD or death compared to the high platelet count group (platelets > 264.5 × 109/L) (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0338, respectively). Low platelet count was potentially an independent predictor of poor renal prognosis in the multivariate regression analysis [HR 1.670 (95% CI 1.019–2.515), P = 0.014]. Lower platelet count at diagnosis is associated with more severe clinical characteristics and impaired renal function. Therefore, platelet count may be an accessible prognostic indicator for renal outcomes in patients with AAV.
Making sense of farmland biodiversity management: an evaluation of a farmland biodiversity management communication strategy with farmers
Authors: Leader Aoife , Kinsella James , O’Brien Richard
Published: April 2024

Biodiversity is a valuable resource that supports sustainability within agricultural systems, yet in contradiction to this agriculture is recognised as a contributor to biodiversity loss. Agricultural advisory services are institutions that support sustainable agricultural development, employing a variety of approaches including farmer discussion groups in doing so. This study evaluates the impact of a farmland biodiversity management (FBM) communication strategy piloted within Irish farmer discussion groups. A sensemaking lens was applied in this objective to gain an understanding of how this strategy could create an actionable space for FBM promotion amongst farmers. The strategy was piloted with six Irish dairy farmer discussion groups, after which focus groups were conducted with members of these groups. Additionally, baseline and endline surveys were completed by the members to determine their knowledge, attitude and on-farm practices relating to FBM. Analysis of the focus group data identified that the communication strategy supported the affordance of sensemaking with respect to FBM. Analysis of the data from the baseline and endline surveys relating to knowledge, attitudes and practices found that engaging with the communication strategy promoted farmers to improve their attitude in relation to FBM. Results from this study provide important lessons for agricultural advisory services to support farmers in incorporating FBM into the overall management of their farms and, in turn, to promote the improvement of farmland biodiversity and contribute to a sustainable future.
Numerical Study of Ignition and Combustion of Hydrogen-Enriched Methane in a Sequential Combustor
Authors: Impagnatiello Matteo , Malé Quentin , Noiray Nicolas
Published: April 2024

Ignition and combustion behavior in the second stage of a sequential combustor are investigated numerically at atmospheric pressure for pure $${\text{CH}}_{4}$$

CH
4

fueling and for two $${\text{CH}}_{4}$$

CH
4

-$${\text{H}}_{2}$$

H
2

fuel blends in 24:1 and 49:1 mass ratios , respectively, using Large Eddy Simulation (LES). Pure $${\text{CH}}_{4}$$

CH
4

fueling results in a turbulent propagating flame anchored by the hot gas recirculation zones developed near the inlet of the sequential combustion chamber. As the $${\text{H}}_{2}$$

H
2

content increases, the combustion process changes drastically, with multiple auto-ignition kernels produced upstream of the main flame brush. Analysis of the explosive modes indicates that, for the highest $${\text{H}}_{2}$$

H
2

amount investigated, flame stabilization in the combustion chamber is strongly supported by auto-ignition chemistry. The analysis of fuel decomposition pathways highlights that radicals advected from the first stage flame, in particular OH, induce a rapid fuel decomposition and cause the reactivity enhancement that leads to auto-ignition upstream of the sequential flame. This behavior is promoted by the relatively large mass fraction of OH radicals found in the flow reaching the second stage, which is approximately one order of magnitude greater than it would be at chemical equilibrium. The importance of the out-of-equilibrium vitiated air on the ignition behavior is proven via an additional LES that features weak auto-ignition kernel formation when equilibrium is artificially imposed. It is therefore concluded that parameters affecting the relaxation towards chemical equilibrium of the vitiated flow can have an important influence on the operability of sequential combustors fueled with varying fractions of $${\text{H}}_{2}$$

H
2

blending.
85 years counteracting an invasion: chestnut ecosystems and landscapes survival against ink disease
Authors: Marzocchi Gloria , Maresi Giorgio , Luchi Nicola , Pecori Francesco , Gionni Alessandra , Longa Claudia Maria Oliveira , Pezzi Giovanna , Ferretti Fabrizio
Published: April 2024

A retrospective examination of early pest and disease outbreaks, such as ink disease, offers new insights into their impact on ecosystems and landscapes. Ink disease, caused by Phytophthora spp., is one of the most destructive diseases affecting Castanea sativa Mill. It first appeared in Europe in the early 18th century, with the initial recorded case in Italy (Piedmont) dating back to 1845. However, its spread instilled significant concerns in several chestnut-growing regions primarily devoted to fruit production. In 1938, a comprehensive assessment of Phytophthora xcambivora outbreaks was conducted in the Bolognese Apennines (Italy), providing a detailed overview of chestnut cultivation status. Thirty-six disease foci were documented, and laboratory tests confirmed the presence of ink disease. To understand the disease’s impact on chestnut ecosystem and landscape over the past 85 years, the 1938 sites were revisited to assess chestnut persistence and phytosanitary status, with Phytophthora species detected using isolation and molecular techniques. Monitoring data revealed that C. sativa still thrives in all but one site, with its wood seemingly able to coexist in dynamic equilibrium with the disease. While P. xcambivora was still detected in several foci, the extent of damage appeared limited. The potential for natural control, likely influenced by the complexity of soil biota, along with the natural spread of hypovirulence in chestnut blight and biological control of the Asian chestnut gall wasp, could explain the continued presence of chestnut in the investigated area and potentially throughout the Italian chestnut range, despite nearly two centuries of ink disease prevalence. Nevertheless, ongoing monitoring is essential to dynamically comprehend the factors at play and their efficacy, particularly in the context of climate change and the possible spread of other Phytophthora species. The survival of chestnut ecosystems amidst ink disease underscores the preservation of the economic, ecological, and landscape values associated with these woodlands.
Diet comparison between sympatric European bison, red deer and fallow deer in a Mediterranean landscape
Authors: Filella Jordi Bartolomé , Morán Fernando , Kemp Yvonne J. M. , Munir Hajra , Gort-Esteve Araceli , Cassinello Jorge
Published: April 2024

At the end of 2020, 18 European bison (Bison bonasus) were introduced to El Encinarejo estate, in the south of the Iberian Peninsula. This hunting-oriented estate has 956 hectares of dehesa, Mediterranean forest and scrubland in which about 400 red deer (Cervus elaphus) and 200 fallow deer (Dama dama) coexist with the bison. To know how trophic resources are used by these herbivore species, faecal samples were collected during the year 2021. The microhistological analysis technique was used to determine the percentage of epidermal fragments of the main functional groups (woody plants, graminoids, legumes and forbs) in each sample. The results showed significant differences between animal species and seasons of the year. Globally, woody plants are preferentially consumed in autumn and winter, graminoids in summer and legumes and forbs in spring. The woody component was the most abundant in the diet of the three species, accounting for 81% of the plant fragments present in red deer faeces, 52% in bison and 38% in fallow deer. This is the first study describing the dietary use of Pistacia lentiscus by European bison, the substantial use throughout all seasons indicates it as a very important diet source. In addition, the interspecific comparison showed that the bison significantly consumed more graminoids (21%), whereas legumes were more present in fallow deer diet (32%). Finally, red deer consumed less forbs than the other two species (8%). It is concluded that there is a certain distribution of trophic resources between the three species that may facilitate their coexistence.
Expression of Cathepsin D in early-stage breast cancer and its prognostic and predictive value
Authors: Alhudiri Inas , Nolan Christopher , Ellis Ian , Elzagheid Adam , Green Andrew , Chapman Caroline
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Cathepsin D is a proteolytic enzyme that is normally localized in the lysosomes and is involved in the malignant progression of breast cancer. There are conflicting results regarding Cathepsin D significance as prognostic and predictor marker in breast cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the expression and prognostic significance of Cathepsin D in early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

Expression of Cathepsin D was assessed by immunohistochemical staining of tissue microarrays, in a large well-characterized series of early-stage operable breast cancer (n = 954) from Nottingham Primary Breast Carcinoma Series between the period of 1988 and 1998 who underwent primary surgery. Correlation of Cathepsin D expression with clinicopathological parameters and prognosis was evaluated.

Results

Cathepsin D expression was positive in 71.2% (679/954) of breast cancer tumours. Positive expression of Cathepsin D was significantly associated with high histological grade (p = 0.007), pleomorphism (p = 0.002), poor Nottingham Prognostic Index (NPI) score (p < 0.002), recurrence (p = 0.005) and distant metastasis (p < 0.0001). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that Cathepsin D expression was significantly associated with shorter breast cancer-specific survival (p = 0.001), higher risk of recurrence (p = 0.001) and distant metastasis (p < 0.0001). ER-positive tumours expressing Cathepsin D and treated with tamoxifen demonstrated a significantly higher risk of distant metastasis.

Conclusion

Cathepsin D expression significantly predicts poor prognosis in breast cancer and is associated with variables of poor prognosis and shorter outcome. The strong association of Cathepsin D with aggressive tumour characteristics and poor outcomes warrants further research of its potential as a therapeutic target The results also suggest a possible interaction between Cathepsin D and tamoxifen therapy in ER-positive breast cancer which needs further investigation to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Association between parity and pregnancy-associated tumor features in high-grade serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Sköld Camilla , Corvigno Sara , Dahlstrand Hanna , Enblad Gunilla , Mezheyeuski Artur , Sundström-Poromaa Inger , Stålberg Karin , Tolf Anna , Glimelius Ingrid , Koliadi Anthoula
Published: April 2024

Purpose

High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC) is the most common ovarian cancer subtype. Parity is an important risk-reducing factor, but the underlying mechanism behind the protective effect is unclear. Our aim was to study if the expression of hormones and proteins involved in pregnancy were affected by the woman’s parity status, and if they may be associated with tumor stage and survival.

Methods

We evaluated expression of progesterone receptor (PR), progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1), relaxin-2, and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1) in tumor tissue from 92 women with HGSC parous (n = 73) and nulliparous (n = 19). Key findings were then evaluated in an independent expansion cohort of 49 patients. Survival rates by hormone/protein expression were illustrated using the Kaplan–Meier method. The independent prognostic value was tested by Cox regression, using models adjusted for established poor-prognostic factors (age at diagnosis, FIGO stage, type of surgery, and macroscopic residual tumor after surgery).

Results

HGSC tumors from parous women were PR positive (≥ 1% PR expression in tumor cells) more often than tumors from nulliparous women (42% vs. 16%; p-value 0.04), and having more children was associated with developing PR positive tumors [i.e., ≥ 3 children versus nulliparity, adjusted for age at diagnosis and stage: OR 4.31 (95% CI 1.12–19.69)]. A similar result was seen in the expansion cohort. Parity status had no impact on expression of PGRMC1, relaxin-2 and TGFβ1. No associations were seen with tumor stage or survival.

Conclusion

Tumors from parous women with HGSC expressed PR more often than tumors from nulliparous women, indicating that pregnancies might possibly have a long-lasting impact on ovarian cancer development.
Gamma radiation synthesis of hydroxyethyl cellulose/acrylic acid/CYANEX 471X hydrogel for silver ions capture from acidic nitrate medium
Authors: Masry B. A. , Gayed H. M. , Daoud J. A.
Published: April 2024

The current novelty in this study is to recover silver ion with selective extractant such as cyanex 471X (triisobutylphosphine sulfide) through a clean and green method with high efficiency. Herein, a sustainable hydrogel (HEC/AAc/CX3) was fabricated from triisobutylphosphine sulfide, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), and acrylic acid (AAc) using gamma irradiation polymerization and implanted for the sorption of silver Ag (I) ions from a nitrate acidic medium. Different techniques were employed for characterization of HEC/AAc/CX3 hydrogel such as FT-IR, SEM, XRD, and EDX, before and after the sorption process of Ag(I) ions. Gel content and swelling kinetics ratio of hydrogels at different irradiation doses (10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 kGy) were studied. The Fickian diffusion model results indicate that HEC/AAc/CX3 hydrogel is non-Fickian diffusion, which confirmed that the diffusion and relaxation rates are compatible and were selected for further sorption of Ag(I). The irradiated HEC/AAc/CX3 hydrogels, which contain 0.1 g of cyanex 471X, were employed for batch sorption of 100 mg/L Ag(I) from an acidic solution, and the suggested conditions were pH = 1, time = 60, and v/m = 0.05 L/g, which gives a sorption percentage of 75%. The values of thermodynamic parameters ΔH, ΔG, and ΔS were evaluated as—62.80 kJ/mol, 5 kJ/mol, and -227 J/mol, which indicate that the sorption system was exothermic and nonspontaneous in nature. The maximum adsorption capacity of irradiated HEC/AAc/CX3 for Ag(I) was found to be 12 mg. g−1 at 298 K. Furthermore, the maximum desorption percent of Ag ions from HEC/AAc/CX3 was found to be 70% and achieved with 0.5 M NH4SCN after one desorption cycle. The prepared hydrogel proved its selectivity towards silver ions with facile desorption steps and reusability cycles.

Graphical Abstract
A note on the chemical fate of the DABCO catalyst in amine-catalyzed hypochlorite bleaching of cellulosic pulps
Authors: Lehrhofer Anna F. , Isaza Ferro Estefania , Hosoya Takashi , Hettegger Hubert , Vuorinen Tapani , Rosenau Thomas
Published: April 2024

Hypochlorous acid bleaching under amine catalysis (Hcat bleaching stage) is an optimized bleaching stage variant that is characterized by working at weakly acidic, near-neutral pH, having high bleaching efficiency, and discharging only very small amounts of chloro-organics. This study addressed the chemical fate of the used 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) catalyst. While literature proposed either homolytic or heterolytic breakage of one ethylene bridge and subsequent release of the resulting fragments as two molecules of formaldehyde, we demonstrated the degradation to proceed by ionic elimination of one ethylene bridge starting from mono-N-chlorinated DABCO. The resulting N-vinyl (enamine) derivative adds water under the release of acetaldehyde and formation of piperazine. The generation of acetaldehyde was experimentally confirmed by 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine trapping, directly from the processing liquid. The experimental findings agreed superbly with computations which showed the “acetaldehyde mechanism” to be much favored over the previously proposed pathways under C–C bond cleavage and release of formaldehyde. The results of this study add to a better understanding of the novel Hcat bleaching system.

Graphical abstract
Meta-analysis of Psychotherapy for Autistic Youth
Authors: Rosenau Kashia A. , Kim Junok , Cho An-Chuen Billy , Seltzer Michael , Ugueto Ana M. , Weisz John R. , Wood Jeffrey J.
Published: April 2024

In order to provide more individualized support, it is imperative to further understand the effectiveness of different types of psychotherapy on the clinical areas of need common in autistic youth (Wood et al. in Behav Ther 46:83–95, 2015). Randomized controlled trials of psychotherapy for autistic youth were included if published in English, included random assignment to treatment or control group, required a previous diagnosis of autism, had a mean age of 6–17 years, and provided outcome measure data from both intervention and control groups. A total of 133 measures were coded across 29 studies and included 1464 participants with a mean age of 10.39 years (1.89). A small mean effect size (0.38,95% CI [0.26, 0.47]) was found overall, with the largest effects for cognitive behavioral therapies on autism-related clinical needs (0.81) and overall mental health (0.78). The results show the significant impact of psychotherapy interventions for autistic youth. Additional research should further assess the details of the most effective psychotherapies for each area of clinical need.
Differences in Well-Being at School Between Young Students With and Without a Refugee Background
Authors: Leeuwestein Hanneke , Kupers Elisa , Boelhouwer Marieke , van Dijk Marijn
Published: April 2024

Students with a refugee background are a vulnerable group in education. Adverse experiences and unsafe circumstances that they encounter prior, during and after their flight can place a great burden on their mental health and psychological well-being. Little is known about the psychological well-being of young refugee students in kindergarten and early years of primary school. The current study examined the psychological well-being of 4- to 8-year-old students with a refugee background residing in the Netherlands (n = 136), compared to Dutch peers without a refugee background (n = 406). Primary school teachers completed three questionnaires which assessed multiple indicators of their students’ psychological well-being: Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), Social-Emotional Questionnaire (SEV) and Risk and Protective factors Trauma Observation School Situations (RaPTOSS). In line with the hypothesis, results showed overall lower psychological well-being among refugee students compared to non-refugee students. Teachers observed more total difficulties in socio-emotional functioning, anxious and mood disturbing behavior, ADHD symptoms, problematic social behavior and post-traumatic stress symptoms (small effects), and less developed trauma protective factors and prosocial behavior (medium effects) among students with a refugee background compared to their non-refugee peers. However, the findings also demonstrated that half of the refugee students did not have any scores that fall in the clinical range of the psychological and behavioral problems assessed. The results underline the need to promote protective factors such as positive self-image, self-regulation skills, safety and relations in the classroom and prosocial behavior among students with a refugee background.
Associations Among Sleep, Emotional Eating, and Body Dissatisfaction in Adolescents
Authors: White Megan L. , Triplett Olivia M. , Morales Nuria , Van Dyk Tori R.
Published: April 2024

The literature on adolescent sleep has shown a bidirectional relationship between sleep difficulties and altered eating habits, including emotional eating. However, it is unclear if this relationship is related to preexisting body concerns, or if poor sleep is the prime contributor to emotional eating patterns. This study therefore seeks to examine body dissatisfaction as a moderator of the sleep-emotional eating relationship in an at-risk sample. Adolescents (N = 106) presenting for overnight polysomnography self-reported on time-in-bed, insomnia, body dissatisfaction, and emotional eating. Less time-in-bed was correlated with a greater desire for thinness and greater insomnia severity was related to overall emotional eating and eating in response to anxiety, anger, and frustration and in response to depression. Moderation analyses revealed that the relationships between time-in-bed and eating in response to feeling unsettled (b =  −.002, 95% CI[− .003,  − .001], p < .005) and eating in response to anxiety, anger, and frustration (b =  −.01, 95% CI[− .01,  − .001], p < .05) were exacerbated by worse body dissatisfaction. Optimizing sleep may attenuate the risk for disordered eating, particularly for adolescents with high body dissatisfaction.
Investigating Educators’ and Students’ Perspectives on Virtual Reality Enhanced Teaching in Preschool
Authors: Rapti Sophia , Sapounidis Theodosios , Tselegkaridis Sokratis
Published: April 2024

Recent developments in technology have introduced new tools, such as virtual reality, into the learning process. Although virtual reality appears to be a promising technology for education and has been adopted by a few schools worldwide, we still do not know students’ and educators’ opinions, preferences, and challenges with it, particularly in relation to preschool education. Therefore, this study: (a) analyzes the preferences of 175 children aged 3 to 6 years regarding traditional teaching compared to enhanced teaching with virtual reality and (b) captures educators’ perspectives on virtual reality technology. This evaluation of virtual reality took place in 12 Greek preschool classrooms. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods were used for data collection. Specifically, regarding the qualitative data collection, the study included semi-structured interviews with the participating educators, oriented by 2 axes: (a) preschoolers’ motivation and engagement in virtual reality activities, and (b) virtual reality technology prospects and difficulties as an educational tool in a real class. Regarding the quantitative data collection, specially designed questionnaires were used. Bootstrapping was utilized with 1000 samples to strengthen the statistical analysis. The analysis of the students’ responses indicated a statistically significant difference in preference in favor of virtual reality enhanced teaching compared to a traditional method. Statistically significant differences were also observed regarding gender. Furthermore, based on the educators’ answers and comments, difficulties were encountered initially but eventually, virtual reality was regarded as an effective approach for educational purposes. However, concerns arose among educators as to whether this technology could adequately promote preschoolers’ cooperative skills.
The evolution of non-financial report quality and visual content: information asymmetry and strategic signalling: a cross-cultural perspective
Authors: Di Chiacchio Laura , Vivian Ben , Cegarra-Navarro Juan , Garcia-Perez Alexeis
Published: April 2024

The increasing stakeholders’ scrutiny requires firms to communicate their non-financial performance to signal their commitment to sustainability. Building on the intention-based view and signalling, legitimacy and institutional theories, this study investigates whether corporate efforts to reduce information asymmetry and enhance their legitimacy led to higher quality and more transparent non-financial reporting practices. This study analyses reports from German, UK and Chinese companies over 14 years. It carries out quantitative and qualitative analysis of textual and visual content to evaluate disclosure density and accuracy of non-financial reports. The findings show limited progress in terms of the density and accuracy of the information disclosed by businesses since 2005. Also, they reveal cultural specificities in the reporting and approach to corporate social responsibility, along with a tendency to “create an appearance of legitimacy” by organisations. This study adds to the literature by studying the use of visual elements in non-financial reports. Moreover, it calls for strict policies and guidelines for the reporting of environmental and social issues by organisations. In particular, the inappropriate use of visual contents, the failure to provide quantitative information and managerial orientations show the need for completeness, transparency, and balance of information in reporting guidelines and regulations. The lack of authenticity and quality of the reports jeopardises the very purpose of non-financial reporting eroding trust in the system by all relevant social and economic stakeholders.
The Relational Analysis of Belief Ascriptions and Schiffer’s Puzzle
Authors: Rinner Stefan
Published: April 2024

Using a variant of Schiffer’s puzzle regarding de re belief, I recently presented a new argument against the so-called Naive Russellian theory, consisting of the following theses: ($$NR_{1}$$

N

R
1

) The propositions we say and believe are Russellian propositions, i.e., structured propositions consisting of the objects, properties, and relations our thoughts and speech acts are about; ($$NR_{2}$$

N

R
2

) Names (and other singular terms) are directly referential terms, i.e., the propositional content of a name is just its referent; ($$NR_{3}$$

N

R
3

) A sentence of the form ‘A believes/disbelieves that S’ is true in a context c if and only if the referent of A in c believes/disbelieves the proposition expressed by S in c. In this paper, I will argue that my variant of Schiffer’s puzzle is not only a problem for the Naive Russellian theory, but for every theory of belief ascriptions entailing ($$NR_{3}$$

N

R
3

). Such theories are also called relational analyses of belief ascriptions. Here the main alternative to a Neo-Russellian theory, consisting of ($$NR_{1}$$

N

R
1

) and ($$NR_{2}$$

N

R
2

), is a Fregean theory, according to which the propositions we say and believe are Fregean propositions, i.e., structured propositions consisting of ways the objects, properties, and relations our thoughts and speech acts are about are presented to the speaker or agent. I will argue that such variants of the relational analysis are committed to principles very similar to the principles used by my Schiffer puzzle. Concluding, I will discuss Fregean and Neo-Russellian alternatives to the relational analysis, and I will argue that, although there are Neo-Russellian alternatives to the relational analysis which provide a solution to my variant of Schiffer’s puzzle, there seem to be no such Fregean alternatives.
When massified higher education meets shrinking birth rates: the case of South Korea
Authors: Jung Jisun
Published: April 2024

Most discussions of higher education research in the last four decades have focused on expanding higher education, including increasing access, equity, and quality. However, the growth of higher education enrolment has slowed in many advanced higher education systems since the achievement of massification, with enrolment declining more dramatically in some systems than in others. South Korea (hereafter Korea), which has experienced one of the most dynamic evolutions in higher education, was recently reported to have the lowest birth rate among OECD countries, and its drastic demographic changes are significantly affecting all aspects of higher education. This paper describes Korea’s shrinking youth population and its impact on different stakeholders in Korean higher education. It also reviews and evaluates Korea’s policies in reaction to the declining population in higher education. The findings of this paper provide policy implications for countries that will experience similar challenges associated with declining enrolment in the years to come, including institutional closures, mergers, and strategies to maintain competitiveness.
Assessing the potential of C-phycocyanin as a natural colorant for non-alcoholic carbonated beverages
Authors: Ghosh Tonmoy , Rawat Ismail , Bala Kiran , Mishra Sandhya , Bux Faizal
Published: April 2024

The multibillion-dollar carbonated beverage industry is currently facing questions from health-conscious consumers over negative health effects of such beverages. Decreasing consumption trends have forced companies to look for healthier choices for their products. C-phycocyanin CPC, a bright blue cyanobacterial pigment with anti-oxidant and other health benefits has been proposed as a candidate in edible drinks. We found that CPC is stable in a wide pH and temperature regime. Reaction kinetics for 12 weeks at 4 °C in non-alcoholic carbonated beverages (B1-B4) showed that B3 (sweetened, ~30 % degradation) best preserved CPC integrity while B1 (non-sweetened, ~87 % degradation) was ineffective. Other beverages (sweetened) could preserve ~ 49 % CPC integrity. Behnajady-Modirshahla-Ghanbary and first order kinetic models explained CPC degradation with and without preservative (sucrose), respectively. The ’consume-by’ times suggest possible refrigeration from ~ 13 hours to 27 days for various CPC-containing beverages. Results suggest CPC could be filter-sterilized and added to non-alcoholic beverages before being packaged in cans or tetra packs to avoid light exposure.

Graphical abstract
Kinetic Inductance Traveling Wave Amplifier Designs for Practical Microwave Readout Applications
Authors: Giachero A. , Vissers M. , Wheeler J. , Howe L. , Gao J. , Austermann J. , Hubmayr J. , Nucciotti A. , Ullom J.
Published: April 2024

A Kinetic Inductance Traveling Wave Amplifier (KIT) utilizes the nonlinear kinetic inductance of superconducting films, particularly niobium titanium nitride (NbTiN), for parametric amplification. These amplifiers achieve remarkable performance in terms of gain, bandwidth, and compression power and frequently approach the quantum limit for noise. However, most KIT demonstrations have been isolated from practical device readout systems. Using a KIT as the first amplifier in the readout chain of an unoptimized microwave SQUID multiplexer coupled to a transition-edge sensor microcalorimeter, we see an initial improvement in the flux noise [1]. One challenge in KIT integration is the considerable microwave pump power required to drive the non-linearity. To address this, we have initiated efforts to reduce the pump power by using thinner NbTiN films and an inverted microstrip transmission line design. In this article, we present the new transmission line design, fabrication procedure, and initial device characterization—including gain and added noise. These devices exhibit over 10 dB of gain with a 3 dB bandwidth of approximately 5.5–7.25 GHz, a maximum practical gain of 12 dB, and typical gain ripple under 4 dB peak to peak. We observe an appreciable impedance mismatch in the NbTiN transmission line, which is likely the source of the majority of the gain ripple. Finally, we perform an initial noise characterization and demonstrate system-added noise of three quanta or less over nearly the entire 3 dB bandwidth.
A Psychoneuroimmunological Reading of Jane Austen’s Persuasion in the Context of Bodily Aging
Authors: Riestra-Camacho Rocío , Enamorado Miguel Ángel Jordán
Published: April 2024

Jane Austen normally avoids discussing appearance throughout her works. Persuasion constitutes the exception to the rule, as the story focuses on the premature aging experienced by her protagonist, Anne Elliot, seemingly due to disappointed love. Much has been written about Anne’s “loss of bloom,” but never from the perspective of psychoneuroimmunology, the field that researches the interrelation between psychological processes and the nervous and immune systems. In this paper, we adopt a perspective of psychoneuroimmunology to argue that Austen established a connection between psychological distress, specifically lovesickness, and the development of early senescence signs, and vice versa, since the recovery of love is associated with happiness and physical glow. From a gender perspective, we discuss how Austen brightly reflected these interrelationships through the story of Anne, when the latest psychoneuroimmunological research has actually shown that women age earlier than men as a consequence of psychological turmoil.
Disability Inclusion in Corporate Supplier Diversity Initiatives
Authors: Goodman Nanette , Wise Fatma Altunkol , Hyseni Fitore , Gilbert Lauren , Blanck Peter
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Since the 1960s, federal and state governments and private-sector companies have used supplier diversity initiatives to ensure their supply chains include businesses owned by traditionally economically disadvantaged or underrepresented groups. Originally concentrated on racial and ethnic minority groups, programs have expanded to include businesses owned by women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and, in some cases, people with disabilities. This study investigates the extent to which disability is included in supplier diversity initiatives of Fortune 500 companies.

Methods

This paper uses a novel data set created by the authors with information on supplier diversity initiatives and Disability, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) statements in Fortune 500 companies extracted from public sources. This information is combined with data from Compustat, a corporate financial database published by Standard and Poor’s and additional variables from other sources.

Results

75% of the Fortune 500 companies have supplier diversity programs that express a commitment to diversity yet only 49% of those with such programs include disability-owned businesses (38% of all Fortune 500 companies). Among the largest 100 companies, 89% had supplier diversity programs that included disability, almost 6 times the rate Ball et al. reported in 2005. This study finds disability inclusion varies significantly by company size, industry, and whether the company is a government contractor.

Conclusion

Despite the growth in disability inclusion, the absence of disability as a diversity category in regulations mandating supplier diversity initiatives for government contractors impacts disability inclusion. If we want to align our supplier diversity programs with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the first step is to address the issue in the Small Business Administration and federal contracting requirements.
Model-based comparison of subcutaneous versus sublingual apomorphine administration in the treatment of motor fluctuations in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Nasser Azmi , Gomeni Roberto , Ceresoli-Borroni Gianpiera , Xie Lanyi , Busse Gregory D. , Melyan Zare , Rubin Jonathan
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of subcutaneous (SC) and sublingual (SL) formulations of apomorphine for the treatment of motor fluctuations in Parkinson’s disease using a pharmacokinetics (PK)/pharmacodynamics (PD) modeling approach. The PK of SC and SL apomorphine are best described by a one-compartment model with first-order absorption and a two-compartment model with delayed absorption, respectively. The PK/PD model relating apomorphine plasma concentrations to the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor scores was described by a sigmoidal Emax model assuming effective concentration = drug concentration in an effect compartment. Apomorphine concentrations and UPDRS motor scores were simulated from the PK/PD models using 500 hypothetical subjects. UPDRS motor score change from baseline was evaluated using time to clinically relevant response, response duration, area under the curve, maximal response, and time to maximal response. Higher doses of each apomorphine formulation were associated with shorter time to response, longer response duration, and greater maximal response. Although the mean maximal responses to SC and SL apomorphine were comparable, the time to response was four times shorter (7 vs. 31 min) and time to maximal response was two times shorter (27 vs. 61 min) for 4 mg SC vs. 50 mg SL. Thus, faster onset of action was observed for the SC formulation compared to SL. These data may be useful for physicians when selecting “on demand” therapy for patients with Parkinson’s disease experiencing motor fluctuations.
Elementary Students’ Use of Mechanistic Reasoning to Explain Community-Connected Engineering Design Solutions
Authors: Topçu Mustafa Sami , Wendell Kristen Bethke , Andrews Chelsea Joy
Published: April 2024

Mechanistic reasoning about an artifact or system involves thinking about its underlying entities and the properties, activities, and cause-effect relationships of those entities. Previous studies of children’s mechanistic reasoning about engineering solutions have mostly focused on specific mechanical systems such as gear trains. Yet there is growing interest in more contextualized, community-connected engineering design experiences for elementary students. Important questions remain about how the specific features of community contexts influence student opportunities for engineering design practice and reasoning. In this study, we explore whether comparisons in students’ mechanistic reasoning can be made across a range of five different community design contexts. For this qualitative descriptive study, we focus on interview data collected after each of five community-connected engineering-enriched science curriculum units: accessible playground design (3rd grade, N = 8, district A, schools 1 and 2), displaced animal relocation design (3rd grade, N = 10, district A, school 1), migration stopover site design (4th grade, N = 4, district A, school 2), retaining wall design (4th grade, N = 13, district B, school 1), and water filter design (5th grade, N = 9 students, district A, school 3). The findings showed that all students named entities and described entity factors for the design solutions for all five units. For the playground, displaced animals, and stopover sites units, some students described the design artifacts without explicitly expressing connections between entity factors and/or the way factors linked up to the design performance. We argue that particular features of the design tasks influenced students’ approaches to explaining their design solutions. Therefore, we can claim that comparisons can be made across different community-connected engineering design contexts in terms of children’s mechanistic reasoning.
Genetic consequences of landscape features in two rear edge, highly fragmented metapopulations of a mediterranean conifer
Authors: Avanzi Camilla , Vitali Alessandro , Piovani Paolo , Spanu Ilaria , Urbinati Carlo , Vendramin Giovanni Giuseppe , Garbarino Matteo , Piotti Andrea
Published: April 2024

Context

Habitat fragmentation is expected to erode genetic diversity, which instead needs to be preserved for promoting species adaptation to a changing climate. As this expectation has found mixed support in forest trees, consistent results on the genetic consequences of fragmentation requires adequately replicated experimental designs, as well as an explicit assessment of which landscape features, if any, could mitigate its detrimental effects.

Objective

Evaluating the role of several landscape attributes in buffering the detrimental effects of fragmentation in two metapopulations of silver fir.

Methods

We genotyped 904 silver fir (Abies alba Mill.) trees from 18 local populations forming two metapopulations comparable for size and extension in the Apennines, a Mediterranean mountain range. We identified the signatures left by the fragmentation process on the genetic features of silver fir local populations. After removing potentially confounding effects due to different evolutionary histories, we used a multivariate approach for testing the relative effect of demographic, geographic, environmental and topographic factors on genetic features of both metapopulations.

Results

We found comparable signals of the habitat fragmentation impact on the genetic diversity and structure of both investigated metapopulations. Fragmentation effects were less pronounced in the largest local populations (but not the least isolated), located on gentler slopes with higher soil water availability and lower heat exposure.

Conclusions

Our results suggest the existence of a set of demographic and environmental factors that could have coherently buffered the detrimental genetic effects of fragmentation in both metapopulations. These findings could be useful to plan landscape restoration for the evolutionary rescue of mixed forests that once characterized Mediterranean mountain ecosystems.