bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Turbulence in an Intense Tropical Cyclone: Momentum Diffusion, Eddy Viscosities, and Mixing Lengths
Authors: Oguejiofor Chibueze N. , Bryan George H. , Rotunno Richard , Sullivan Peter P. , Richter David H.
Published: June 2024

Improved representation of turbulent processes in numerical models of tropical cyclones (TCs) is expected to improve intensity forecasts. To this end, the authors use a large-eddy simulation (with 31-m horizontal grid spacing) of an idealized category 5 TC to understand the role of turbulent processes in the inner core of TCs and their role on the mean intensity. Azimuthally and temporally averaged budgets of the momentum fields show that TC turbulence acts to weaken the maximum tangential velocity, diminish the strength of radial inflow into the eye, and suppress the magnitude of the mean eyewall updraft. Turbulent flux divergences in both the vertical and radial directions are shown to influence the TC mean wind field, with the vertical being dominant in most of the inflowing boundary layer and the eyewall (analogous to traditional atmospheric boundary layer flows), while the radial becomes important only in the eyewall. The validity of the downgradient eddy viscosity hypothesis is largely confirmed for mean velocity fields, except in narrow regions which generally correspond to weak gradients of the mean fields, as well as a narrow region in the eye. This study also provides guidance for values of effective eddy viscosities and vertical mixing length in the most turbulent regions of intense TCs, which have rarely been measured observationally. A generalized formulation of effective eddy viscosity (including the Reynolds normal stresses) is presented.

Significance Statement

This study uses a turbulence-resolving simulation of a category 5 tropical cyclone to understand the role of turbulence in intense storms. Results show that turbulence clearly modulates storm structure and intensity. This study provides guidance for the values of turbulent quantities (which are usually parameterized in comparatively coarse operational TC forecast models) in scarcely observed regions of intense storms. Furthermore, a complete formulation of the effective eddy viscosities is proposed, incorporating contributions from typically ignored Reynolds normal stress terms.
Improving Hurricane Intensity and Streamflow Forecasts in Coupled Hydrometeorological Simulations by Analyzing Precipitation and Boundary Layer Schemes
Authors: Khondaker Md Murad Hossain , Momen Mostafa
Published: June 2024

Hurricanes have been the most destructive and expensive hydrometeorological event in U.S. history, causing catastrophic winds and floods. Hurricane dynamics can significantly impact the amount and spatial extent of storm precipitation. However, the complex interactions of hurricane intensity and precipitation and the impacts of improving hurricane dynamics on streamflow forecasts are not well established yet. This paper addresses these gaps by comprehensively characterizing the role of vertical diffusion in improving hurricane intensity and streamflow forecasts under different planetary boundary layer, microphysics, and cumulus parameterizations. To this end, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) atmospheric model is coupled with the WRF hydrological (WRF-Hydro) model to simulate four major hurricanes landfalling in three hurricane-prone regions in the United States. First, a stepwise calibration is carried out in WRF-Hydro, which remarkably reduces streamflow forecast errors compared to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gauges. Then, 60 coupled hydrometeorological simulations were conducted to evaluate the performance of current weather parameterizations. All schemes were shown to underestimate the observed intensity of the considered major hurricanes since their diffusion is overdissipative for hurricane flow simulations. By reducing the vertical diffusion, hurricane intensity forecasts were improved by ∼39.5% on average compared to the default models. These intensified hurricanes generated more intense and localized precipitation forcing. This enhancement in intensity led to ∼16% and ∼34% improvements in hurricane streamflow bias and correlation forecasts, respectively. The research underscores the role of improved hurricane dynamics in enhancing flood predictions and provides new insights into the impacts of vertical diffusion on hurricane intensity and streamflow forecasts.

Significance Statement

Despite significant recent improvements, numerical weather prediction models struggle to accurately forecast hurricane intensity and track due to many reasons such as inaccurate physical parameterization for hurricane flows. Furthermore, the performance of existing physics schemes is not well studied for hurricane flood forecasting. This study bridges these knowledge gaps by extensively evaluating different physical parameterizations for hurricane track, intensity, and flood forecasts using an atmospheric model coupled with a hydrological model. Then, a reduced diffusion boundary layer scheme is developed, making remarkable improvements in hurricane intensity forecasts due to the overdissipative nature of the considered schemes for major hurricane simulations. This reduced diffusion model is shown to significantly enhance hurricane flood forecasts, indicating the significance of hurricane dynamics on its induced precipitation.
Winter Storm Severity Index in Alaska: Understanding the Usefulness for Impact-Based Winter Weather Severity Forecast Information
Authors: Semmens Kathryn , Carr Rachel Hogan , Montz Burrell , Maxfield Keri , Tobin Dana M. , Kastman Joshua , Nelson James A. , Harnos Kirstin , Beetstra Margaret , Painter Patrick
Published: June 2024

There is growing interest in impact-based decision support services to address complex decision-making, especially for winter storm forecasting. Understanding users’ needs for winter storm forecast information is necessary to make such impact-based winter forecasts relevant and useful to the diverse regions affected. A mixed-method social science research study investigated extending the winter storm severity index (WSSI) [operational for the contiguous United States (CONUS)] to Alaska, with consideration of the distinct needs of Alaskan stakeholders and the Alaskan climate. Data availability differences suggest the need for an Alaska-specific WSSI, calling for user feedback to inform the direction of product modifications. Focus groups and surveys in six regions of Alaska provided information on how the WSSI components, definitions, and categorization of impacts could align with stakeholder expectations and led to recommendations for the Weather Prediction Center to consider in developing the WSSI Alaska product. Overall, wind (strength and direction) and precipitation are key components to include. Air travel is a critical concern requiring wind and visibility information, while road travel is less emphasized (contrasting with CONUS needs). Special Weather Statements and Winter Storm Warnings are highly valued, and storm trajectory and transition (between precipitation types) information are the important contexts for decision-makers. Alaska is accustomed to and prepared for winter impacts but being able to understand how components (wind, snow, and ice) contribute to overall impact enhances the ability to respond and mitigate damage effectively. The WSSI adapted for Alaska can help address regional forecast needs, particularly valuable as the climate changes and typical winter conditions become more variable.

Significance Statement

Impact-based support services can assist decision-makers in prioritizing preparedness and mitigation actions related to winter storm events. The winter storm severity index adapted for specific considerations in Alaska (such as including wind and visibility components) can extend winter weather impact-based forecasting’s utility. Additionally, lessons learned from the process of adapting a national product to specific regional needs may inform best practices for gathering stakeholder input and feedback.
Patterns of Health-Risk Behaviours and Their Associations With Anxiety and Depression Among Chinese Young Adults by Gender: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Dong Chaoqun , Chen Hua , Li Yi , Sun Yumei , Pan Yinzhu , Xu Qiongying , Sun Hongyu
Published: June 2024

This study investigated gender differences in health-risk behaviour patterns among young adults and assessed the associations of anxiety and depression with these patterns. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1740 young Chinese adults aged 18–24 years. Latent class analysis (LCA) and multinomial logistic regression were conducted to identify the clusters of health-risk behaviours and their associations with anxiety and depression. Three common patterns were found for both genders: physical inactivity, substance use, and insufficient fruit intake (5.7% for males [M] and 11.6% for females [F]); a sedentary lifestyle only (48.4% for M and 48.9% for F); and a sedentary lifestyle, substance use, and an unhealthy diet (7.6% for M and 20.0% for F). Additionally, two additional unique patterns were found: physical inactivity and unhealthy diet in males (38.3%) and physical inactivity and insufficient fruit intake in females (19.6%). Sociodemographic variables exert different effects on health-risk behaviour patterns as a function of gender. Lower anxiety levels (odds ratio [OR]: 0.892; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.823–0.966) and greater depression levels (OR: 1.074; 95% CI: 1.008–1.143) were associated with a sedentary lifestyle, substance use, and unhealthy diet class only in female young adults compared with a sedentary-only class. These findings underscore the need for the implementation of targeted interventions based on gender differences.
Market Factors Associated with Comprehensive Behavioral Health Crisis Care Availability: A Resource Dependence Theory Study
Authors: Burns Ashlyn , Vest Joshua R. , Menachemi Nir , Mazurenko Olena , Salyers Michelle P. , Yeager Valerie A.
Published: June 2024

Behavioral health crisis care (BHCC) is a care delivery model for individuals experiencing acute distress related to a mental health or substance use disorder. We examined market factors associated with comprehensive BHCC availability using 2022 data on mental health treatment facilities (n = 9385) obtained from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. We aggregated facility-level data by county (n = 3142) and merged with county-level market factors. Logistic regression models were used to examine the adjusted associations between market factors and BHCC availability. We found that 468 (14.9%) counties had at least one mental health treatment facility offering comprehensive BHCC services. Specifically, counties with more mental health providers (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 2.26, Confidence Interval = 1.32-3.86) and metropolitan counties (AOR = 3.26, CI = 1.95-5.43) had higher odds of having a comprehensive BHCC facility. Our findings highlight the importance of developing the mental health workforce to increase BHCC availability and a need to address disparities in rural counties.
Exploring Side Effects of Sublingual Immunotherapy: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Janz Tyler A. , Jimoh Raliat O , Nguyen Shaun A. , Haroun Kareem B. , McKinnon Brian , Siddiqui Farrah N.
Published: June 2024

Objective: Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) has emerged as a potentially safe and convenient option for allergen immunotherapy for patients with inhalant allergy. Larger studies on the overall side effects and severe reactions anaphylaxis are still lacking. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Setting: Author’s review was completed in the University of Texas Medical Branch. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective clinical trials focusing on SLIT safety published from January 1, 2001, to December 31, 2021, was conducted. Results: Twenty-six studies were included with analysis of 7827 patients, representing over 2.7 million SLIT doses. All studies focused on single-antigen immunotherapy. The mean duration of treatment was 11.54 months. Local side effects were present in 40.83% of patients [95% confidence interval (CI) 24.78-57.96]. Systemic side effects were encountered in 1.09% of SLIT patients (95% CI 0.57-1.78). Anaphylaxis was reported in 0.13% of patients (95% CI 0.06-0.22). Discontinuation rates due to side effects were low, at 4.32% of patients (95% CI 3.28-5.49). Conclusion: This meta-analysis shows that single-antigen SLIT is well-tolerated, with overall low rates of systemic side effects including anaphylaxis. Although there is a high rate of minor local side effect, the treatment attrition during the first year is low. With growing allergy burden worldwide, SLIT is a convenient and economically feasible option for immunotherapy. Further work is needed to evaluate long-term safety and efficacy of single as well as multi-antigen SLIT, including quality of life assessments.
Heat and Organization Studies: Organizing in a world approaching 50°C
Authors: Dentoni Domenico
Published: June 2024

As a symptom of the current global climate emergency, rising temperatures pervade organizational lives. Yet organization studies have hardly investigated the everyday organizing necessary to cope and adapt, here and now, to life in a world approaching and even surpassing 50°C. This article seeks to open spaces of collective inquiry to grapple with practices of organizational co-evolution with heat. I apply Barad’s post-humanist notion of diffraction—patterns of interference in entangled agency—through warming organizations, as rising temperatures intra-act with the matter, materials, bodies, and discourses that co-constitute them. Diffractive inquiry helps organization studies understand how rising heat alters and amplifies bodily differences across families, communities, firms, societies, and ecologies. This post-humanist view forces us to rethink theories of organizational resilience, inequality, and identity in co-evolution with heat and other ecological phenomena as part of a relational whole.
Work–Family Conflict and Emotional Exhaustion During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Argentina: The Moderating Role of Personal, Family, and Job Resources
Authors: Pujol-Cols Lucas , Arraigada Mariana , Lazzaro-Salazar Mariana , Foutel Mariana
Published: June 2024

The deep technological and social transformations undergone by modern societies in the last few decades, along with the increasing demands for adaptation associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, have imposed unprecedented challenges on employees in terms of balancing competing demands both from work and family domains. This study examines the moderating role of personal, family, and job resources on the relationship between work–family conflict (WFC) and emotional exhaustion in Argentina. The hypotheses are tested in a sample of 317 workers contacted through a networking approach by using hierarchical regression techniques. The results showed that both personal and job resources are relevant to understanding individuals’ differential responses to WFC. More specifically, the findings revealed that core self-evaluations indeed moderated the relationship between family-to-work conflict and emotional exhaustion, whereas supervisor support was found to buffer the effects of work-to-family conflict on emotional exhaustion.
A simple, ingenious approach for intra-operative detection of coronary cameral fistula
Authors: Darbari Anshuman , Jhalani Ishan , Kumar Ajay , Kumar Barun
Published: June 2024

A 56-year-old female presented to us with rheumatic mitral stenosis with a left atrial clot. We found one coronary cameral fistula on the coronary angiography from the posterior left ventricular branch to the left ventricle. She was taken up for surgical mitral valve replacement and clot removal. A residual coronary fistula may increase the risk of infective endocarditis, especially in the presence of mechanical prosthesis. Henceforth, intra-operatively, we used the methylene blue dye injection as an easy technique to detect and safely close the coronary fistula from inside the left ventricular chamber. She recovered smoothly with a successful outcome.
Effects of fixation and demineralization on histomorphology and DNA amplification of canine bone marrow
Authors: Diamantino Gabriella M. L. , Beeler-Marfisi Janet , Foster Robert A. , Sears William , Defarges Alice , Vernau William , Bienzle Dorothee
Published: June 2024

Fixation and demineralization protocols for bone marrow (BM) across diagnostic laboratories are not standardized. How different protocols affect histomorphology and DNA amplification is incompletely understood. In this study, 2 fixatives and 3 demineralization methods were tested on canine BM samples. Twenty replicate sternal samples obtained within 24 hours of death were fixed overnight in either acetic acid-zinc-formalin (AZF) or 10% neutral-buffered formalin (NBF) and demineralized with formic acid for 12 hours. Another 53 samples were fixed in AZF and demineralized with hydrochloric acid for 1-hour, formic acid for 12 hours, or ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) for 24 hours. Histologic sections were scored by 4 raters as of insufficient, marginal, good, or excellent quality. In addition, DNA samples extracted from sections treated with the different fixation and demineralization methods were amplified with 3 sets of primers to conserved regions of T cell receptor gamma and immunoglobulin heavy chain genes. Amplification efficiency was graded based on review of capillary electrophoretograms. There was no significant difference in the histomorphology scores of sections fixed in AZF or NBF. However, EDTA-based demineralization yielded higher histomorphology scores than demineralization with hydrochloric or formic acid, whereas formic acid resulted in higher scores than hydrochloric acid. Demineralization with EDTA yielded DNA amplification in 29 of 36 (81%) samples, whereas demineralization with either acid yielded amplification in only 2 of 72 (3%) samples. Although slightly more time-consuming and labor-intensive, tissue demineralization with EDTA results in superior morphology and is critical for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification with the DNA extraction method described in this article.
The Role of War-Related Marketing Activism Actions in Community Resilience: From the Ground in Ukraine
Authors: Kipnis Eva , Pysarenko Nataliia , Galalae Cristina , Mari Carlo , Martín Ruiz Verónica , Vorster Lizette
Published: June 2024

Extant literature considers marketing activities as instrumental for postwar recovery and peace-building. However, war is an ongoing lived experience for numerous societies across the world. Focusing on the role of marketing during war, this article presents a study examining how and why people living in war adversity deploy, perceive, and respond to war-related marketing activism actions (MAA). War-related MAA are acts through which brands/organizations and consumers create or draw on marketing meanings to convey and to enact stances and experiences related to war. This study adopts a multimodal qualitative methodology integrating photo elicitation and in-depth interviews with consumers and with marketing and management professionals in Ukraine, the country enduring invasion and war by Russia at the time of this article’s publication. Analyses through a community resilience theoretical lens generate a conceptualization that demonstrates how war-related MAA are harnessed and serve as a medium in community dialogues concerning envisaged resilience trajectories (survival, creativity and growth, and recovery). The article advances understanding of marketing activism during war by illuminating its potential and boundary conditions for serving as a community resilience resource. It also offers public policy development directions for marketing practice, organizations, and governments.
Part 2: Current Concepts in Radiologic Imaging & Intervention in Acute Biliary Tract Diseases
Authors: Neitzel Easton , Salahudeen Owais , Mueller Peter R. , Kambadakone Avinash , Srinivas-Rao Shravya , vanSonnenberg Eric
Published: June 2024

Acute cholangitis is encountered commonly in critically ill, often elderly, patients. The most common causes of cholangitis include choledocholithiasis, biliary strictures, and infection from previous endoscopic, percutaneous, or surgical intervention of the biliary tract. Rare causes of acute cholangitis in the United States include sclerosing cholangitis and recurrent pyogenic cholangitis, the latter predominantly occurring in immigrants of Asian descent. Multidisciplinary management of these conditions is essential, with intensivists, surgeons, diagnostic radiologists, interventional radiologists, gastroenterologists, endoscopists, and infectious disease physicians typically involved in the care of these patients. In this paper intended for intensivists predominantly, we will review the imaging findings and radiologic interventional management of critically ill patients with acute cholangitis, primary and secondary sclerosing cholangitis, and recurrent pyogenic cholangitis.
Part 1: Current Concepts in Radiologic Imaging and Intervention in Acute Cholecystitis
Authors: Neitzel Easton , Laskus Julia , Mueller Peter R , Kambadakone Avinash , Srinivas-Rao Shravya , vanSonnenberg Eric
Published: June 2024

Acute calculous cholecystitis and acute acalculous cholecystitis are encountered commonly among critically ill, often elderly, patients. Multidisciplinary management of these conditions is essential, with intensivists, surgeons, diagnostic radiologists, interventional radiologists, infectious disease physicians, gastroenterologists, and endoscopists able to contribute to patient care. In this article intended predominantly for intensivists, we will review the imaging findings and radiologic treatment of critically ill patients with acute calculous cholecystitis and acute acalculous cholecystitis.
Group sequential methods based on supremum logrank statistics under proportional and nonproportional hazards
Authors: Boher Jean Marie , Filleron Thomas , Sfumato Patrick , Bunouf Pierre , Cook Richard J
Published: June 2024

Despite the widespread use of Cox regression for modeling treatment effects in clinical trials, in immunotherapy oncology trials and other settings therapeutic benefits are not immediately realized thereby violating the proportional hazards assumption. Weighted logrank tests and the so-called Maxcombo test involving the combination of multiple logrank test statistics have been advocated to increase power for detecting effects in these and other settings where hazards are nonproportional. We describe a testing framework based on supremum logrank statistics created by successively analyzing and excluding early events, or obtained using a moving time window. We then describe how such tests can be conducted in a group sequential trial with interim analyses conducted for potential early stopping of benefit. The crossing boundaries for the interim test statistics are determined using an easy-to-implement Monte Carlo algorithm. Numerical studies illustrate the good frequency properties of the proposed group sequential methods.
Granite Landforms and Water Storage at Great Zimbabwe
Authors: Pikirayi Innocent
Published: June 2024

Recent research at Great Zimbabwe (1100–1750 ad) interpreted the earthen scars or depressions located within the monumental complexes and referred to in the archaeological record as dhaka pits, as water storage facilities. Beyond these pits, I examine the broader landscape context of Great Zimbabwe to understand the site’s catchment area, which, though limited in extent, comprises a hilly terrain that allows for rapid run-off. This necessitated the harvesting and storage of water for consumption at Great Zimbabwe. The associated granite geology is part of the crystalline rocks characterising much of the Zimbabwe craton, and such geological contexts served as aquifers that also stored water that the ancient residents used. Geological research during the past two or so decades on the potential of composite or weathered-fractured rock aquifers developing within the weathered overburden calls for a deeper understanding of granite hydrogeologic properties in the context of water conservation. In this article, I demonstrate that this knowledge was already known by residents of Great Zimbabwe more than five centuries ago.
Outcome of Primary Lung Salivary Gland-Type Carcinoma: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Deb Pratik Q. , Suster David I.
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Primary pulmonary salivary gland-type carcinomas are rare malignancies arising from minor salivary gland tissue in the lower respiratory tract. Given their rarity, constituting <1% of all primary lung malignancies, their epidemiological features and outcomes remain poorly documented. This study analyzed data from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to identify primary pulmonary salivary gland carcinomas, including the most prevalent tumor types. Methods: All patients diagnosed with mucoepidermoid carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, and epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma, with the lung designated as the primary site between 1975 and 2019, were subject to analysis. Overall and disease-specific survival were calculated using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models. Results: The study identified 323 mucoepidermoid carcinoma, 284 adenoid cystic carcinoma, and 6 epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma diagnosed as pulmonary salivary gland-type carcinoma. An analysis of age distribution revealed a unimodal pattern for both mucoepidermoid carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma, with most patients diagnosed after age 40. Most patients were Caucasians (77% for mucoepidermoid carcinoma and 83% for adenoid cystic carcinoma). Both disease-specific and overall survival were worse for patients diagnosed at the age of 60 years or above. Race or sex did not significantly impact patient survival. High-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma demonstrated a significantly worse prognosis than low or intermediate-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Conclusion: A comprehensive review of clinical and epidemiological features of pulmonary salivary gland-type carcinomas reveals that the age of diagnosis and tumor grade are the most significant factors in determining patient survival.
Ride comfort improvement by back propagation-active disturbance rejection control in semi-active hydro-pneumatic suspension of mining dump truck
Authors: Sun Anxin , Yu Chengcheng , Xie Fangwei , Gao Yonghua , Shi Xiuwei
Published: June 2024

Rigorous model-based design and semi-active control for hydro-pneumatic suspension (HPS) of the mining dump truck play an important role in providing superior driving characteristics such as ride comfort. In this paper, the investigation is carried out on a new control algorithm of semi-active suspension systems, namely, back propagation-active disturbance rejection control (BP-ADRC), supporting the driving characteristic ride comfort, and the technique is adopted in accordance with the co-simulation of MATLAB/Simulink and ADAMS. Besides, the model and controller used in the study including the semi-active HPS model, multi-body dynamic model, three-dimensional road model, and BP-ADRC controller are described and the vehicle response results are discussed which are obtained at the velocity of 20, 30, and 40 km/h on the time ranging from 10 s to 50 s, respectively. The results show that compared to passive HPS, both ADRC and BP-ADRC semi-active HPS are able to reduce vibration acceleration significantly, of which BP-ADRC reduces more. The maximum reduction rates of the semi-active HPS can reach 20.27% and 18.81% under random and impulsive excitation, respectively. The data illustrate that the semi-active HPS based on BP-ADRC control can significantly improve the ride comfort of the mining dump truck.
Ensuring Safe Medication Assessment for Older Adults: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rosengren Kristina , Szemberg Charlotta
Published: June 2024

Safe medication management is crucial for maintaining health and well-being, particularly among older adults who often take multiple medications prescribed by different healthcare providers. The aim of this study was to identify factors related to medication safety among older adults using the Safe Medication Assessment (SMA) tool during home visits conducted by mobile care teams in the western part of Sweden. A quantitative pilot study was conducted. Safe Medication Assessment was used at baseline (n = 18) and follow-ups at 1 month (n =13) and 3 months (n = 13) to measure medication management. The study presented numbers and proportions (%) of identified similarities and differences in medication management among participants. The study identified several common risk factors associated with unsafe medication management among older adults, for example taking 5 or more medications (95%), having prescriptions from different prescribers (70%), and dealing with the complexity of medication management (39%). Protective factors that contributed to safe medication management included use of methods to remember medication schedules (95%), securely storing medications (95%), and having knowledge about prescribed drugs (77%). Implementing Safe Medication Assessment (SMA) during home visits offers a proactive approach to enhancing safe medication management among older adults living at home. Addressing risk factors such as polypharmacy, comorbidities, and cognitive function, along with use of protective factors like medication storage and patient education, can optimize medication therapy, minimize risks, and enhance treatment outcomes. Mobile care units play a vital role as a bridge for integrated care between different care providers, facilitating improved treatment outcomes for older adults managing complex medication regimens at home.
“A Letter of Appreciation and Suggestions: Improving Methodological Rigor and Questionnaire Design in Ballet Dance Injury Research”
Authors: Sadhu Sakshi , Patra Ramesh Chandra
Published: June 2024

Background: The research paper provides valuable insights into the perspectives of adolescent ballet dancers regarding dance-related injuries. The authors’ work is commendable, but several methodological improvements could enhance the study’s accuracy and reliability. As a researcher with similar interests, I offer suggestions to strengthen the data collection and analysis process. Methods: Original Approach: The study utilized an online survey for data collection, suitable for close-ended questions but less ideal for qualitative research. Suggested Improvements: Data Collection Method: One-on-one interviews, either structured or semi-structured, are recommended to obtain more accurate and in-depth responses.Sample Size: The original sample size of 15-30 participants is appropriate for direct interactions. However, for online surveys, a larger sample size of approximately 246 participants is recommended. This calculation is based on recent findings showing a prevalence rate of 79.8% in full-time and 63.2% in part-time ballet dancers in Australia, using a 95% confidence interval. Questionnaire Design: The original questionnaire was constructed from a literature review. To improve its quality, input from a focus group of experts should be incorporated. A shorter, clearer, and well-structured questionnaire is suggested to minimize bias. Results: By adopting these methodological enhancements, the study could achieve more reliable and comprehensive data. The inclusion of open-ended questions would provide deeper insights into the dancers’ experiences and improve the impact and relevance of the research findings. Conclusions: The research paper offers valuable perspectives on dance-related injuries among adolescent ballet dancers. With the proposed methodological improvements, the study can yield more robust and insightful data, contributing significantly to the understanding of injury experiences in this population.
Continuous glucose monitoring in pregnant women with pregestational type 2 diabetes: a narrative review
Authors: Ye Sylvia , Shahid Ibrahim , Yates Christopher J , Kevat Dev , Lee I-Lynn
Published: June 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in pregnancy is associated with poor perinatal outcomes; however, there are limited data on outcomes of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) use in this population. Objective: We reviewed the literature on studies reporting CGM outcomes in pregnant women with T2DM. We aimed to synthesise in a narrative review, the effects of CGM on glycaemic and perinatal outcomes as well as current research gaps. Results: Of 34 articles screened, three reported CGM outcomes in T2DM pregnancies compared to self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Other feasibility and mixed population studies were also reviewed. CGM in T2DM has good feasibility, acceptability, and improved glycaemic control beyond SMBG. There were limited data to draw conclusions on its effect on maternal and fetal outcomes. Conclusion: Further studies of perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with T2DM are required to determine the impact of improved glycaemia with CGM.
Diagnosis and treatment of bacterial peritonitis in patients with gastrointestinal cancer: an observational multicenter study
Authors: Riescher-Tuczkiewicz Alix , Grégory Jules , Bert Frederic , Zappa Magaly , Pellat Anna , Lalande Valerie , Gallois Claire , Mainardi Jean-Luc , Bachet Jean-Baptiste , Robert Jérôme , Bourrel Anne Sophie , Coriat Romain , Thabut Dominique , Hammel Pascal , Rebours Vinciane , Lorenzo Diane
Published: June 2024

Background:

Bacterial peritonitis (BP) in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) cancer has been poorly described, and its prevalence is unknown.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate in patients with both GI cancer and ascites the prevalence of BP, associated features, mechanisms, prognosis, and the diagnostic performance of neutrophil count in ascites.

Design:

A retrospective, multicenter, observational study.

Methods:

All patients with GI cancer and ascites who underwent at least one paracentesis sample analyzed for bacteriology over a 1-year period were included. BP was defined by a positive ascites culture combined with clinical and/or biological signs compatible with infection. Secondary BP was defined as BP related to a direct intra-abdominal infectious source.

Results:

Five hundred fifty-seven ascites from 208 patients included were analyzed. Twenty-eight patients had at least one episode of BP and the annual prevalence rate of BP was 14%. Among the 28 patients with BP, 19 (65%) patients had proven secondary BP and 17 (59%) patients had multi-microbial BP, mainly due to Enterobacterales. A neutrophil count greater than 110/mm3 in ascites had negative and positive predictive values of 96% and 39%, respectively, for the diagnosis of BP. The median survival of patients with BP was 10 days (interquartile range 6–40) after the diagnosis.

Conclusion:

BP is not rare in patients with GI cancer and is associated with a poor short-term prognosis. When a patient with GI cancer is diagnosed with BP, a secondary cause should be sought. Further studies are needed to better define the best management of these patients.
Bilioptysis associated with ARDS and sepsis: A rare presentation and review of the literature
Authors: Chaurasia Sheetal , Shetty Rajesh Mohan , Achaiah Nithya
Published: June 2024

Bilioptysis or the presence of bilirubin in sputum or bronchial secretions is thought to be secondary to the presence of a broncho-biliary fistula. Bilioptysis is not well described in; literature, likely due to the rare nature of its incidence. There have been reports of bilioptysis secondary to other conditions such as hyperbilirubinaemia associated with liver cirrhosis, alcohol-related hepatitis, and haemolysis associated with sickle cell disease without demonstrable evidence of the presence of a fistula . The clinical implications of bilioptysis as well as the effect on the prognosis of the patient are still unclear and warrant further investigation. Here we present the first case of bilioptysis demonstrated on a bronchoalveolar aspirate (BAL) fluid sample in a patient with a brain tumour and possible associated neurogenic ARDS and sepsis.
Exceptions to the Ne Bis in Idem Principle in the Context of Articles 54 and 55(1)(b) CISA and Compatibility of Declarations Not to be Bound by that Principle with Articles 50 and 52(1) CFREU
Authors: Coffey Ger
Published: June 2024

The judgment in Criminal proceedings against MR (Generalstaatsanwaltschaft Bamberg) Case C–365/21 was delivered on 23 March 2023 wherein the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) examined the complex interrelated issues concerning Article 54 CISA interstate application of the ne bis in idem principle (in the context of free movement of persons), Article 55(1)(b) CISA exceptions to the application of that principle, Article 50 CFREU interstate application of the principle (in the context of a fundamental right), and Article 52(1) CFREU limitations to the application of that principle subject to the principle of proportionality. The CJEU examined the compatibility of declarations not to be bound by the application of Article 54 CISA commensurate with Article 55(1)(b) CISA in the context of a criminal organisation and financial crime, offences against national security or other equally essential interests, and the compatibility of such declarations with Article 50 and Article 52(1) CFREU. The CJEU ruled that Article 55(1)(b) CISA exception to the principle was compatible with Article 50 CFREU. This is the first CJEU judgment on exceptions to Article 54 CISA and compatibility of declarations not to be bound by that principle with Article 50 CFREU. This article examines the significance and implications of the judgment within the area of freedom, security and justice.
Cross-border access to electronic evidence in criminal matters: The new EU legislation and the consolidation of a paradigm shift in the area of ‘judicial’ cooperation
Authors: Sachoulidou Athina
Published: June 2024

As the ‘cyber’ element infiltrates a significant part of criminal activity, the significance of accessing electronic evidence has risen to a critical level. The storage of this evidence outside the investigating jurisdiction prompted law enforcement authorities to actively explore avenues for collaboration with private service providers on a voluntary basis. This has resulted in the establishment of an informal channel of cooperation, running parallel to those established through mutual legal assistance and the principle of mutual recognition. The EU legislator has recently formalised this type of cooperation by adopting the Regulation (EU) 2023/1543 on European Production Orders and European Preservation Orders for electronic evidence, along with the Directive (EU) 2023/1544. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the key provisions of this Regulation and reflects critically on the paradigm shift the latter seems to expand with respect to the privatisation of law enforcement tasks.
Translator’s (In)visibility: A Case Study of Howard Goldblatt’s Translation of Red Sorghum
Authors: Fang Xia
Published: June 2024

Increasing studies approach translation from alternative aspects, either borrowing different methodologies or concepts from other disciplines. These various attempts have expanded the field of translation studies to a broader area with a focus on either intercultural studies or the translator’s studies. Howard Goldblatt, as a respected translator in China, has provided limitless insights into Chinese literature in translation. Recent studies are moving closer to the specific traits of the translator, and this study thus focuses on Goldblatt’s translation of Red Sorghum, as the original work boasts plenty of cultural words, regional dialects, and colloquialisms. The purpose of this study is to determine Goldblatt’s translation tendency, the corresponding translation methods he adopted, as well as the reasons behind correspondent behaviors and choices. To answer the above inquiries, quantitative and qualitative methods will be jointly adopted. Multiple factors leading to the translator’s visibility and invisibility are also analyzed with reference to the quantitative results.
Contours of Legal Aid: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Khubalkar Ragini P.
Published: June 2024

The origins of legal aid are deeply rooted in Indian history and can be recited from old scriptures. From the extensive journey of the legal system from the Vedic era to the present, a codified legal framework of legal aid has grown to the myriad importance in India. Access to justice has been identified as a human right at the international level through Articles 8 and 10 of the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights. The General Assembly in 2012 adopted the ‘UN Principles and Guidelines on Access to Legal Aid in Criminal Justice System’, which is considered to be the first legal instrument for providing legal aid rights. At the national level, India is much ahead and considers legal aid as a basic right that flows from access to justice. The Constitution of India, through Articles 21 and 14, has identified fundamental rights through the active participation of judiciary. 2 Article 39A specifically states the state’s duty towards providing legal aid. 3 On the same line, there are provisions in civil 4 and criminal law 5 for providing free legal aid, so that access to justice can be achieved. In addition, the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, also works towards this goal by providing National Legal services Authorities (NLSA), District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA) and establishing Lok Adalats. The Bar Council of India made it compulsory for all law colleges and universities to establish legal aid cell to spread awareness about basic laws and free legal aid through various programmes. The Ministry of Law and Justice has also come up with the scheme of Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice (DISHA) to achieve this constitutional mandate through the pro bono culture. In this article, Introduction gives a brief introduction to legal aid and its changing importance. In Development of the Concept of Legal Aid, historical development is traced to understand the need for legal aid in the early period. Analysis of Present Precise Legal Safeguard to Legal Aid focuses on the development of legal aid after the introduction of the Legal Aid Act and the efforts taken by the government and other educational institutions or contributing to promote to access to justice in the present era. In Legal Aid at an International Regime, some international efforts have been made to find legal aid in some developed countries. Way Forward provides the way forward for legal aid and discusses available best practices followed in this area with certain suggestions.
The Invisible Backpack: An Exercise to Better Understand, Empathize With, and Make Recommendations for Supporting Employees With Their Work-Life Challenges
Authors: Behson Scott J. , Mercer Ian S.
Published: June 2024

The ability to support employees with their mental health, well-being, and work-life challenges is an essential skill for managers in today’s and tomorrow’s workplace. The Invisible Backpack exercise, in which the instructor leads a series of group-based guided discussions with some use of visual aids, is designed to help students appreciate the importance of understanding, empathizing with, and addressing a wide range of employee concerns. Students consider the stressors in their lives and in the lives of different categories of employees. They then develop recommendations for managers and human resources professionals that address employee challenges relating to stress and well-being. The use of a metaphorical “invisible backpack1” helps students visualize these important concepts, making them more tangible and applicable to their current lives and future professional careers.
Observing executive functioning of neurodivergent students and supporting practices of their teachers in the classroom
Authors: Safer-Lichtenstein Jonathan , Kenworthy Lauren , Verbalis Alyssa , Ba Caroline , Mikulich-Gilbertson Susan , Anthony Bruno J. , Anthony Laura G.
Published: June 2024

Executive function (EF) challenges, including difficulties with cognitive flexibility, planning/ organization, and emotional control, are common in neurodivergent children. We developed the Behavioral Observation of Classroom Executive Functioning (BOCEF) tool to examine observable EF-related behaviors of elementary students and EF-supporting strategies of their teachers. The BOCEF student score correlated significantly with teacher-completed ratings of similar behaviors. Autistic students ( n = 48) and students with ADHD ( n = 98) were rated as having similar rates of several EF-related behaviors, while autistic students were rated as significantly more likely to get “stuck.” Teachers were found to be more likely to display strategies of planning, clear instructions, and visual supports, and less likely to utilize favorable praise to correction ratios, transition priming, flexibility, rule referencing, or behavioral reward systems. Praise was the teacher strategy found to have the greatest association with student behavior. Implications for student accommodation/support and teacher training are discussed.

Lay abstract

Autistic children and children with ADHD often have difficulties with thinking flexibility, planning, and managing frustration. We developed a tool called the Behavioral Observation of Classroom Executive Functioning (BOCEF) to evaluate how children struggle with these executive functioning behaviors in the classroom, and how often teachers are using strategies known to support these behaviors. Our ratings of students on the BOCEF were similar to how teachers rated these same types of behaviors in these students. Autistic students ( n = 48) and students with ADHD ( n = 98) were rated as having similar rates of difficulties in the classroom, with the exception that autistic students got “stuck” more often, meaning they had more difficulty moving on from specific ideas or topics. Teachers were found to be more likely to display strategies of planning, clear instructions, and visual supports, and less likely to utilize adequate praise, warnings prior to transitions, flexibility, rule referencing, or behavioral reward systems. Praise was the teacher strategy found to be most related to student behavior. Findings from this study indicate the BOCEF could be helpful for schools to determine how much these types of challenges are impacting neurodivergent students in the classroom. Additional teacher training on incorporating praise and other ways to support neurodivergent students in the classroom is also likely to be important moving forward.