bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Annual Variations in the Near-Earth Solar Wind
Authors: Owens Mathew J. , Lockwood Mike , Barnard Luke A. , Yardley Stephanie L. , Hietala Heli , LaMoury Adrian T. , Vuorinen Laura
Published: September 2023

Earth’s orbit and rotation produces systematic variations in geomagnetic activity, most notably via the changing orientation of the dayside magnetospheric magnetic field with respect to the heliospheric magnetic field (HMF). Aside from these geometric effects, it is generally assumed that the solar wind in near-Earth is uniformly sampled. But systematic changes in the intrinsic solar wind conditions in near-Earth space could arise due to the annual variations in Earth heliocentric distance and heliographic latitude. In this study, we use 24 years of Advanced Composition Explorer data to investigate the annual variations in the scalar properties of the solar wind, namely the solar wind proton density, the radial solar wind speed and the HMF intensity. All parameters do show some degree of systematic annual variation, with amplitudes of around 10 to 20%. For HMF intensity, the variation is in phase with the Earth’s heliocentric distance variation, and scaling observations for distance largely explains the observed variation. For proton density and solar wind speed, however, the phase of the annual variation is inconsistent with Earth’s heliocentric distance. Instead, we attribute the variations in speed and density to Earth’s heliographic latitude variation and systematic sampling of higher speed solar wind at higher latitudes. Indeed, these annual variations are most strongly ordered at solar minimum. Conversely, combining scalar solar wind parameters to produce estimates of dynamic pressure and potential power input to the magnetosphere results in solar maximum exhibiting a greater annual variation, with an amplitude of around 40%. This suggests Earth’s position in the heliosphere makes a significant contribution to annual variations in space weather, in addition to the already well-studied geometric effects.
Magma Ocean, Water, and the Early Atmosphere of Venus
Authors: Salvador Arnaud , Avice Guillaume , Breuer Doris , Gillmann Cédric , Lammer Helmut , Marcq Emmanuel , Raymond Sean N. , Sakuraba Haruka , Scherf Manuel , Way M. J.
Published: September 2023

The current state and surface conditions of the Earth and its twin planet Venus are drastically different. Whether these differences are directly inherited from the earliest stages of planetary evolution, when the interior was molten, or arose later during the long-term evolution is still unclear. Yet, it is clear that water, its abundance, state, and distribution between the different planetary reservoirs, which are intimately related to the solidification and outgassing of the early magma ocean, are key components regarding past and present-day habitability, planetary evolution, and the different pathways leading to various surface conditions.

In this chapter we start by reviewing the outcomes of the accretion sequence, with particular emphasis on the sources and timing of water delivery in light of available constraints, and the initial thermal state of Venus at the end of the main accretion. Then, we detail the processes at play during the early thermo-chemical evolution of molten terrestrial planets, and how they can affect the abundance and distribution of water within the different planetary reservoirs. Namely, we focus on the magma ocean cooling, solidification, and concurrent formation of the outgassed atmosphere. Accounting for the possible range of parameters for early Venus and based on the mechanisms and feedbacks described, we provide an overview of the likely evolutionary pathways leading to diverse surface conditions, from a temperate to a hellish early Venus. The implications of the resulting surface conditions and habitability are discussed in the context of the subsequent long-term interior and atmospheric evolution. Future research directions and observations are proposed to constrain the different scenarios in order to reconcile Venus’ early evolution with its current state, while deciphering which path it followed.
Herd health and reproductive management associated with lamb weight gain and mortality in sub-Saharan drylands—a case from Ethiopia
Authors: Genfors Elisabeth , Lysholm Sara , Moliso Mesfin Mekonnen , Ayele Firdawok , Wieland Barbara , Magnusson Ulf , Båge Renée
Published: September 2023

Sheep are important for food and livelihood security in sub-Saharan Africa, and maximizing lamb weight gain while minimizing mortality is essential to improve production. Using the Menz sheep breeding villages of Amhara region in Ethiopia as a case study, the weight gain and mortality rate of 208 lambs were monitored during their first 5 months of life. The study was conducted in intervention and control villages, where the intervention villages were part of community-based breeding programmes and had participated in various projects aiming to improve sheep production and management. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted to detect associations between weight gain from birth to 1 month, and birth to 5 months, and different lamb and ewe characteristics, farmer education, application of management routines, and presence of village level sheep management interventions. In general, lambs from intervention villages, without certain signs of diseases, whose mothers were 2 years or older, had a body condition score of more than 2 on a 5-point scale, and who originated from flocks where disease prevention strategies had been implemented, had gained more weight. Overall lamb mortality was 6.8% with most deaths occurring before 1 month of age. This study highlights that health interventions in ewes improve lamb survival and weight gain and that the care of lambs during the first month of life is crucial for overall herd productivity.
Early diagnosis and prognostic potential of RAC3 in bladder tumor
Authors: Wang Shuo , Wei Zhuo , Shu Hui , Xu Yandong , Fan Zheqi , Shuang Songtao , Li Pei , Lu Pan , Ye Chang
Published: September 2023

Background and purpose

Bladder tumors are among the most prevalent malignancies in the urinary system, and RAC3 has been linked to various types of cancer. This article seeks to explore the potential of RAC3 as both an early diagnostic marker for bladder tumors and a novel therapeutic target.

Methods/patients

The expression of RAC3 in bladder tissue was detected using immunohistochemical staining. Additionally, the protein expression of RAC3 was measured and quantified through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Subsequently, the correlation between the expression level of RAC3 and bladder tumors was investigated through multifactorial analysis and survival analysis.

Results

Our findings revealed that RAC3 expression was upregulated in bladder tumor tissues. Moreover, we observed higher levels of RAC3 expression in the serum and urine of patients with bladder tumors compared to those with non-bladder tumors. Additionally, we identified a significant positive correlation between RAC3 expression levels and the stage, degree of differentiation, and infiltration of bladder tumors. Importantly, high RAC3 expression emerged as an influential factor in the poor prognosis of bladder tumors, as patients with high RAC3 expression exhibited a lower overall survival rate than those with low RAC3 expression.

Conclusion

Based on our results, RAC3 shows promise as both a marker for early diagnosis of bladder tumors and a potential therapeutic target.
Differential predictability of cognitive profiles from brain structure in older males and females
Authors: Jockwitz Christiane , Krämer Camilla , Dellani Paulo , Caspers Svenja
Published: September 2023

Structural brain imaging parameters may successfully predict cognitive performance in neurodegenerative diseases but mostly fail to predict cognitive abilities in healthy older adults. One important aspect contributing to this might be sex differences. Behaviorally, older males and females have been found to differ in terms of cognitive profiles, which cannot be captured by examining them as one homogenous group. In the current study, we examined whether the prediction of cognitive performance from brain structure, i.e. region-wise grey matter volume (GMV), would benefit from the investigation of sex-specific cognitive profiles in a large sample of older adults (1000BRAINS; N = 634; age range 55–85 years). Prediction performance was assessed using a machine learning (ML) approach. Targets represented a) a whole-sample cognitive component solution extracted from males and females, and b) sex-specific cognitive components. Results revealed a generally low predictability of cognitive profiles from region-wise GMV. In males, low predictability was observed across both, the whole sample as well as sex-specific cognitive components. In females, however, predictability differences across sex-specific cognitive components were observed, i.e. visual working memory (WM) and executive functions showed higher predictability than fluency and verbal WM. Hence, results accentuated that addressing sex-specific cognitive profiles allowed a more fine-grained investigation of predictability differences, which may not be observable in the prediction of the whole-sample solution. The current findings not only emphasize the need to further investigate the predictive power of each cognitive component, but they also emphasize the importance of sex-specific analyses in older adults.
The local environment matters: Evidence from digital healthcare services for patient engagement
Authors: Aljafari Ruba , Soh Franck , Setia Pankaj , Agarwal Ritu
Published: September 2023

The creation and delivery of healthcare services are being transformed through patient-engaging digital services. However, their effects on hospital performance are unclear. We build on the theoretical foundations of resource dependency and environmental munificence to identify two characteristics of the hospital’s regional environment, the population’s access to digital computing resources (computing access) and health insurance coverage (service access), that condition the effects of hospitals’ patient-engaging digital services on patient satisfaction and readmissions. We argue that these omitted environmental contingencies may help explain the inconclusive findings reported in prior empirical studies on digital services. Analysis of data collated from a national sample of 941 hospitals nested within 157 regions shows that computing access in the environment strengthens the effect of a hospital’s digital services on readmissions and patient satisfaction. By contrast, service access dampens the moderated effect of digital services and computing access on readmissions, but the effect is not the same for patient satisfaction. Our study offers theoretical and practical implications underscoring the role of environmental heterogeneity in the value hospitals realize from patient-engaging digital services.
Determinants of physical activity maintenance and the acceptability of a remote coaching intervention following supervised exercise oncology rehabilitation: a qualitative study
Authors: Weemaes Anouk T. R. , Sieben Judith M. , Beelen Milou , Mulder Louisa T. M. A. , Lenssen Antoine F.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to investigate perceived determinants of physical activity (PA) maintenance following supervised exercise oncology rehabilitation and the acceptability of a remote coaching intervention during this period.

Methods

A phenomenological qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was conducted. Nineteen participants (16 women, 3 men) were recruited from the intervention (n = 12) and control group (n = 7) of a randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of remote coaching following hospital-based, supervised exercise oncology rehabilitation. Participants in the intervention group received a 6-month remote coaching intervention after completing the exercise program, aimed at stimulating PA maintenance. The interviews were based on the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation model of Behaviour (COM-B model) and the framework of acceptability (TFA) and were coded using template analysis.

Results

Key themes regarding determinants of PA maintenance were self-efficacy, PA habits, accountability, physical complaints, and facilities. Remote coaching was perceived acceptable because it stimulated PA maintenance by offering a source of structure and social support and thereby increased accountability. Moreover, it improved confidence to perform PA, leading to increased levels of self-efficacy. The remote nature of the intervention was perceived as convenient by some of the participants, while others would have preferred additional physical appointments.

Conclusions

Cancer survivors considered remote coaching acceptable to stimulate PA maintenance following supervised rehabilitation. Interventions should focus on increasing accountability, self-efficacy, forming habits, and helping cancer survivors to overcome barriers.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

The ability to maintain PA beyond supervised exercise oncology programs depends on many determinants. Remote coaching interventions have potential to target individually relevant determinants following exercise programs in cancer survivors.
Seeking Counseling Services: A Phenomenological Study of African American Women
Authors: Smith LaToya D. , Minton Casey A. Barrio , Taylor LaKaavia , Price Eric W.
Published: September 2023

African American women bear a mental health burden and are less likely to seek and receive appropriate services than their dominant culture peers. African Americans may underutilize professional counseling services due to factors such as stigma, healthy cultural mistrust, and cultural values. To date, researchers have paid limited attention to ways to break through barriers to mental health equity. This phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of ten African American women who sought service from licensed professional counselors. Participants sought help after failure of self-care and traditional supports, recognized barriers, and approached counseling as a last resort. Through counseling, they found new perspectives, surprise connections, and opportunities for growth. Findings inform communities about what counseling is (and is not) as well as different types of support that can be obtained from a professional counselor. Limitations and future research directions are discussed.
Iron and Nickel Supplementation Exerts a Significant Positive Effect on the Hydrogen and Methane Production from Organic Solid Waste in a Two-Stage Digestion
Authors: Salazar-Batres Karina J. , Durand Audrey-Anne , Constant Philippe , Moreno-Andrade Iván
Published: September 2023

Two-stage anaerobic digestion and trace metals (TM) supplementation are promising techniques to improve biogas production. Fe2+ and Ni2+ can improve process stability since they are part of the cofactors of enzymes and microorganisms’ growth. This work attempted to evaluate the effect of Fe2+ and Ni2+ addition on H2-rich biogas production from organic solid waste and the CH4-rich biogas production from the acidogenic effluents (AEs) enriched with TM. The TM concentrations that enhanced the hydrogen yield in the batch were 0.25 mg/L of Ni2+ and 334 mg/L of Fe2+. These concentrations were evaluated in a two-stage system. The substrate for the batch tests and fermentative reactor (first stage) was OSW. The AE generated in the first stage was the substrate to produce CH4-rich biogas in the second stage. In the first stage, the productivity achieved was 1823 ± 160 mL H2/L/day. However, TM supplementation decreased productivity by 65% since the VS removal increased. Megasphaera genus predominated in the first stage. Regarding the methanogenic reactor, the undiluted AE without TM caused the fast decay of the process. Nevertheless, the reactor operated stably after using AE enriched with TM as a substrate, and CH4 yields increased by 42%. The highest productivity achieved in the second stage was 1278 ± 42 mL CH4/L/day, operating with an organic loading rate of 2.8 gVS/L/day. The genera Proteiniphilum, Thermovirga, DMER64, Anaerovorax, and Syntrophomonas predominated in the second stage. In conclusion, AE enriched with TM can be used to recover the stability of anaerobic digesters, increasing methane production.
Updated guidelines for chronic active Epstein–Barr virus disease
Authors: Kawada Jun-ichi , Ito Yoshinori , Ohshima Koichi , Yamada Masaki , Kataoka Shinsuke , Muramatsu Hideki , Sawada Akihisa , Wada Taizo , Imadome Ken-Ichi , Arai Ayako , Iwatsuki Keiji , Ohga Shouichi , Kimura Hiroshi ,   The Committee for Guidelines for the Management of Chronic Active EBV Disease, Related Disorders (the MHLW Research Team in Japan)
Published: September 2023

Chronic active Epstein–Barr virus disease (CAEBV), formerly named chronic active Epstein–Barr virus infection, is characterized by systemic inflammation and clonal proliferation of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-infected T or NK cells. As CAEBV is a potentially life-threatening illness, appropriate diagnosis and therapeutic interventions are necessary for favorable clinical outcomes. Substantial evidence regarding the pathogenesis and treatment of CAEBV has been accumulated since previous guidelines for the diagnosis of CAEBV were proposed. To reflect this evidence, we updated the guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of CAEBV to improve clinical management of the disease. The details of the updated guidelines are presented in this report. Diagnosis of CAEBV now requires confirmation of a high copy number of EBV genome and EBV-infected T or NK cells. An EBV DNA load ≥ 10,000 IU/mL in whole blood is proposed as the diagnostic cutoff value for CAEBV in this updated guideline. A standard treatment approach for CAEBV has not been established, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is considered the only curative treatment. Chemotherapy can be administered to control disease activity before HSCT.
A contribution to the investigation of acoustic interferences in aircraft distributed propulsion
Authors: Guérin Sébastien , Tormen Damiano
Published: September 2023

The objective of this work is to better understand the acoustic interferences created by distributed propulsion engines based on an approach that combines RANS simulation results for the aerodynamic prediction and analytical models to calculate acoustics. A multi-propeller configuration without wing is considered for this investigation. The propeller geometry and the operating conditions are realistic for a regional transport airplane. In the first part of the paper, the results obtained by two different and independent prediction methods are compared. One method is well-established and serves as validation for the second, low-order method, which is better suited for design-to-noise applications since it requires less details as input and is computationally faster by several orders of magnitude. The good agreement between both methods, obtained for a single propeller as well as for the distributed propeller configuration, is exploited in the second part of the paper to investigate the role of acoustic interferences. Taking acoustic interferences into account drastically affects the directivity of the tonal emission. Compared to the results obtained by considering the propellers as if they were uncorrelated, the far-field sound pressure levels can be significantly lower at the radiation nodes or amplified up to the theoretical limit of 9 dB calculated for eight propellers. The directivity patterns depend on the relative initial angular positions of the propellers. When these positions are randomly varied according to the uniform probability density distribution model, the mean result (expectation) is the same as if the propellers were considered as uncorrelated. Finally, the results show that the probability that the acoustic level is lower than the mean value is higher than 50% because of the positive skewness of the probability distribution of the resulting pressure amplitude. Even though the propeller–propeller and propeller–wing interactions were not considered, the essence of the findings is expected to remain valid for more complex configurations because those interactions are rotor phase-locked.
Comparison of proximal gastrectomy with double-flap technique and double-tract reconstruction for proximal early gastric cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Qiao-zhen , Wang Peng-cheng , Chen Yan-xin , Lin Shu , Ye Kai
Published: September 2023

Surgical resection is the main treatment for proximal gastric cancer, but there is no consensus on its reconstruction. We carried out a meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of double-tract reconstruction (DTR) and double-flap technique (DFT) on postoperative quality of life in patients with proximal gastric cancer. Systematic searches of PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and the Cochrane Library were performed. Literature for the last 5 years was searched without language restrictions. The cutoff date for the search was 12 April 2023. Literature and research searches were conducted independently by two researchers and data were extracted. Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager (Revman) 5.4 software. Fixed models were used when heterogeneity was small and random-effects models were used for meta-analysis when heterogeneity was large. The study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD 42023418520. Surgical time was significantly shorter in the DTR group than in the DFT group (P = 0.03). There were no significant differences between DFT and DTR in terms of age, gender, pathological stage, preoperative body mass index, surgical bleeding, and perioperative complications. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of reflux esophagitis and PPI intake, but DFT was superior to DTR in weight improvement at 1 year after surgery (P < 0.0001). Compared with DTR, DFT reconstruction is more demanding and time-consuming, but its postoperative nutritional status is better, so it should be the first choice for GI reconstruction in most patients with early proximal gastric cancer. However, DTR should be the best choice for patients who have difficulty operating.
Challenges and opportunities of the European Critical Raw Materials Act
Authors: Hool Alessandra , Helbig Christoph , Wierink Gijsbert
Published: September 2023

The Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) is an essential regulatory framework designed to address the pressing challenges faced by the European Union (EU) in the strategic sectors of decarbonization, digitalization, and aerospace and defense. It aims to tackle the lack of secure and sustainable access to critical raw materials (CRMs) by increasing anticipation and mitigation of supply risks, fostering domestic CRM potential, and promoting sustainable sourcing practices. Part of a broader “Green Industrial Plan” and aligned with the “Net-Zero Industry Act” (NZIA), the CRMA strives to position the EU as a leading hub for clean tech industries. The NZIA and CRMA packages respond to international trends of protecting clean energy technology and resources, akin to the US Inflation Reduction Act. Defining materials as “strategic” based on their relevance and expected demand for strategic technologies, the CRMA regulation establishes benchmarks for minimum shares of EU demand to be covered by domestically sourced and processed as well as recycled raw materials and aims at reducing dependencies on single third country suppliers in all steps of the supply chain. A communication complements the regulation by focusing on increasing CRM supply security and sustainability through circularity, standardization efforts, skill development, and strategic actions for research and innovation. Establishing a “CRM Club” and partnerships with like-minded countries intend to strengthen international partnerships to safeguard CRM supply security and facilitate sustainable investment in resource-rich nations. Challenges arise concerning the concept of “strategic raw materials” and meeting benchmarks, particularly in materials availability, recycling targets, diversification, and the establishment of necessary skills. Data gaps, potential national differences, coherence with national legislation, long-term economic viability, and potential fuelling of international tensions also pose significant challenges to the effective implementation of the CRMA. Addressing these challenges and embracing the opportunities presented by the CRMA are crucial steps toward achieving sustainable resource management and advancing the EU’s clean tech industries.
Zuschusspolitiken für Privatschulen: Entwicklungen und parteipolitische Begründungen für die Sonderstellung von konfessionellen Privatschulen in Österreich
Authors: Gawert Moritz , Nikolai Rita
Published: September 2023

Österreich nimmt im internationalen Vergleich eine Sonderstellung in der Finanzierung seiner Privatschulen ein: nicht-konfessionelle Privatschulen werden bis heute ungleich behandelt und erhalten deutlich geringere Zuschüsse als konfessionelle Privatschulen. Diesen Entwicklungspfad sehen wir in der Wirkung spezifischer parteipolitischer Argumentationsmuster begründet, die den Akteurskonstellationen im österreichischen Parlament zugrunde liegen. Untersucht werden im Beitrag die Argumentationsmuster von Parteien in Parlamentsdebatten zur Bezuschussung von Privatschulen über verschiedene Zeitperioden hinweg. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass eine Gleichbehandlung der Privatschulen bislang im Parlament keine parteiübergreifende Zustimmung, v. a. der beiden größeren Parteien von ÖVP und SPÖ, erhalten konnten.
Association of participants who screened positive for night eating syndrome with physical health, sleep problems, and weight status in an Australian adult population
Authors: Sakthivel Sai Janani , Hay Phillipa , Touyz Stephen , Currow David , Mannan Haider
Published: September 2023

Background

Night eating syndrome (NES) is a unique eating disorder characterised by evening hyperphagia and nocturnal ingestions which cause significant distress and/or impairment in functioning. Despite the growing literature, NES remains poorly understood and under diagnosed. As such, this study aims to compare the prevalence of physical health conditions in participants with NES when compared to participants without an eating disorder (ED) and participants with other eating disorders (including anorexia nervosa (AN), binge eating disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa (BN)) in a general population Australian sample of adults.

Methods

The data for this study were obtained from the 2017 Health Omnibus Survey (HOS) a multi-stage, cross-sectional survey, conducted by Harrison Research in South Australia. This current study focused on 2547 participants over 18 years of age and specific questions from this population survey including those related to participant demographics and health.

Results

This study identified that participants who screened positive for night eating syndrome (spNES) when compared to participants with other eating disorders (ED) or no ED diagnosis, were significantly more likely to have an increased age, be female, have lower levels of education and have lower household income. Additionally, the spNES group was significantly associated with sleep apnoea (p = 0.031), insomnia or other sleep problems (p < 0.0001), increased BMI (p < 0.0001), increased levels of pain/discomfort and lower physical health-related quality of life. Hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes were not significantly associated with the spNES group or the “other ED” group which included participants with AN, BED, BN.

Conclusions

Several physical health problems were found to be significantly associated with the spNES group including sleep problems, increased BMI, increased levels of pain and lower self-reported physical health-related quality of life. Consequently, future research exploring the complex interaction between NES and these medical conditions may provide further insight into the diagnosis, screening tools and management of NES. Additionally, this study highlights the need for future studies which use larger population-based samples.

Level of evidence

Level III. Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case–control analytic studies.
Varying curricular responses to children’s existential questions in RE syllabi from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Bavaria and Berlin-Brandenburg
Authors: Sporre Karin
Published: September 2023

In which ways do curricula recognize existential questions of compulsory school students, and what direction is given regarding how to address them? By asking these two questions, this study analyses syllabi for the school subject of religion education and its equivalents in Sweden, Norway and Denmark, and in the two German regions of Bavaria and Berlin-Brandenburg. The study forms part of a research project based in Sweden where, in 1969, the theme of ‘livsfrågor’—translated here as ‘existential questions’—was introduced into the curriculum. A qualitative content analysis of the use of the word ‘question’ in the respective languages is the basis for the comparative study of the current syllabi. The Berlin-Brandenburg and Danish syllabi recognize and, in integrated ways, address students’ questions, while the other syllabi do so considerably less. Significant variations in the relationship between the child and the curriculum are exemplified. The results of the study raise both religion educational and general didactic questions of how existential dimensions and subjectification (cf. Biesta in World-centred education, Routledge, 2022) can find their expression in curricula. Additionally, the question is addressed of whether students’ questions can be understood as crucial in their orientation in the world and responded to responsibly, for example in a Bildung context.
Designing inclusive organizational identities
Authors: Freeman Ashlyee , Koçak Özgecan
Published: September 2023

Organizational identity can be a key instrument in designers’ pursuit to build organizations that employ individuals from diverse social groups and create inclusive workplace cultures that support all members’ belonging, regardless of their status in society. We define an inclusive organizational identity as the belief (held by internal or external stakeholders) that inclusivity is one of the defining characteristics of an organization; that the organization intentionally incorporates diverse individuals—including those with historically marginalized social identities—into its governance, operations, and outputs. Building on studies in different literatures—ranging from micro-level research in psychology of belonging, meso-level research on sensegiving, and macro-level research on how organizations are perceived by their audiences—we develop a design-based approach to organizational identity. In order to create inclusive identities, designers will need to address trade-offs around whether to make identity claims, claim inclusivity as an identity feature, and affiliate with ideologies of inclusion (assimilation versus multiculturalism). If they choose to make identity claims, designers can bolster those claims by developing managers as stewards of the organization’s identity, facilitating employee participation to define inclusivity, and being transparent about diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) efforts.
Clinical Feature Ranking Based on Ensemble Machine Learning Reveals Top Survival Factors for Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Cerono Gabriel , Melaiu Ombretta , Chicco Davide
Published: September 2023

Glioblastoma multiforme (GM) is a malignant tumor of the central nervous system considered to be highly aggressive and often carrying a terrible survival prognosis. An accurate prognosis is therefore pivotal for deciding a good treatment plan for patients. In this context, computational intelligence applied to data of electronic health records (EHRs) of patients diagnosed with this disease can be useful to predict the patients’ survival time. In this study, we evaluated different machine learning models to predict survival time in patients suffering from glioblastoma and further investigated which features were the most predictive for survival time. We applied our computational methods to three different independent open datasets of EHRs of patients with glioblastoma: the Shieh dataset of 84 patients, the Berendsen dataset of 647 patients, and the Lammer dataset of 60 patients. Our survival time prediction techniques obtained concordance index (C-index) = 0.583 in the Shieh dataset, C-index = 0.776 in the Berendsen dataset, and C-index = 0.64 in the Lammer dataset, as best results in each dataset. Since the original studies regarding the three datasets analyzed here did not provide insights about the most predictive clinical features for survival time, we investigated the feature importance among these datasets. To this end, we then utilized Random Survival Forests, which is a decision tree-based algorithm able to model non-linear interaction between different features and might be able to better capture the highly complex clinical and genetic status of these patients. Our discoveries can impact clinical practice, aiding clinicians and patients alike to decide which therapy plan is best suited for their unique clinical status.
Le priapisme, une urgence urologique: définition et prise en charge
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Archana , Valerio Massimo , Grobet-Jeandin Elisabeth
Published: September 2023

Le priapisme, défini par une érection prolongée durant plus de 4 h malgré l’absence de stimulation sexuelle, peut être classé en deux catégories: ischémique et non-ischémique. Les principaux facteurs étiologiques du priapisme ischémique sont des maladies hématologiques, des syndromes néoplasiques et l’utilisation de certains agents pharmacologiques. Le priapisme non-ischémique peut quant à lui faire suite à un traumatisme pelvien, une atteinte neurologique ou post-opératoire. Le risque de séquelles étant lié à la durée du priapisme, il est essentiel d’identifier le sous-type pour entreprendre le plus rapidement possible le traitement approprié. Le priapisme ischémique est une urgence médicale nécessitant un drainage des corps caverneux. Le priapisme non-ischémique est d’évolution moins rapide mais nécessite néanmoins une identification précoce et son traitement consiste en la fermeture de la fistule vasculaire. Une dysfonction érectile secondaire peut en découler en cas de traitement différé ou inefficient, et un suivi est donc recommandé afin d’identifier les éventuelles récidives et séquelles ultérieures.
Paternalism and Liberty/Autonomy as Dialectically Related Concepts
Authors: Beck Birgit
Published: September 2023

Following a seminal definition by Gerald Dworkin, paternalism comprises interventions which interfere with the liberty or autonomy of a person, lack the concerned person’s consent and are conducted with benevolent intention. In a paper titled “The Concept of Paternalism” Dominik Düber advises abstaining from applying the notions of liberty and autonomy in a conceptual analysis of paternalism in order to avoid conceptual confusion and moral preconception regarding paternalism. In the present paper, I will argue to the contrary that both the concept and justification of paternalism depend dialectically on the notions of liberty and autonomy, respectively. The concept of paternalism alters its structure and meaning according to these notions. Likewise, the legal and ethical evaluation of particular instances of paternalism depend on the related concepts of liberty and autonomy.
A New Housing Mode in a Regional Landscape of Care: A Sociocultural Psychological Study of a Boundary Object
Authors: Gfeller Fabienne , Zittoun Tania
Published: September 2023

The study of ageing, which received growing attention over the past 30 years, has progressively realised the importance of the cultural, historical, and socio-economical environment for the various courses of ageing. However, we believe that it could be further conceptualised. First, we propose to enrich it through the notion of “landscape of care” developed by geography. Second, the distinction developed by sociocultural psychologists between sociogenesis, microgenesis, and ontogenesis is useful to articulate different scales of the landscape of care and to consider individual trajectories. Finally, the notion of boundary object leads us to discuss how a specific object might play a bridging function in this landscape. We draw on a regional case study carried out in a Swiss canton where the building of “flats with referees” is part of a new policy that aims at adapting the care and support network to demographic change and to favour ageing in place. Our hypothesis is that these flats may have a function of boundary object as they lead various actors to collaborate. Based on observations, desk research, and interviews, the study shows that on a sociogenetic level, these flats have a bridging function. However, on ontogenetic and microgenetic levels, divergences and misunderstandings hinder these flats to fully achieve this function. By examining the changes in the landscape of care, this article contributes to a better understanding of people’s trajectories within their sociocultural environments.
Palaeoclimatic niche modelling reveals the phylogeographic history of the South African shrew Myosorex varius and the colonisation route of the genus Myosorex (Mammalia, Soricidae) from East Africa
Authors: Pahad Govan , Jansen van Vuuren Bettine , Montgelard Claudine
Published: September 2023

Myosorex varius is a South African generalist shrew, which has been found to consist of several genetic clades across its range. A northern clade inhabits the more mesic, summer-rainfall areas of grassland and savannah in the east of South Africa. A southern clade occupies areas of fynbos in the south, and can be further divided into a western subclade occupying winter-rainfall areas and an eastern subclade occupying areas with aseasonal rainfall. Non-South-African members of the African genus Myosorex primarily are limited to isolated montane habitats along the East African Rift System. Here, we used palaeoclimatic niche modelling to examine the effects of Pliocene and Pleistocene climate change on the distributions of M. varius, its clades and the genus as a whole. Results indicate that repeated cycles of range expansion during glacial periods and fragmentation during interglacials are responsible for current phylogeographic patterns within M. varius. Based on their close alignment with rainfall zones and lack of genetic mixing despite areas of contact, it is likely that these (sub)clades are locally adapted to their respective areas. Earlier climatic fluctuations allowed the genus to ‘island hop’ south from East Africa along the East African Rift System, expanding in range during cooler periods and retreating to montane refugia during warmer periods. Areas currently occupied by Myosorex species largely correspond with predicted montane refugia that have allowed them to survive previous warm periods.
Recognition in Targeted Youth Work: Young Adults’ Experiences of Care, Respect, and Esteem
Authors: Välimäki Vesa , Husu Hanna-Mari
Published: September 2023

This article develops a framework, based on recognition theory, for examining youth work services that target young Finnish adults who are not in education or employment. It complements previous research by examining targeted youth work (TYW) as an institutional context with specific ways of recognising young adults. Drawing upon Axel Honneth’s recognition theory and Randall Collins’ interaction ritual theory, it explores how the context can provide access to different kinds of recognition-based situations. Thus, the analysis addresses how the three different forms of recognition (care, respect, and esteem) are activated and experienced by young adults in targeted youth work. Examining data drawn from 35 interviews with young adults who have been or are currently outside of education or employment, the findings highlight the potential of targeted youth work to offer social interactions that can help clients to encounter care, respect, and esteem. Findings also reveal the potential challenges of providing recognition in targeted youth work, such as the lack of meaningful opportunities for self-determination and autonomy. This study contributes to research on how recognition theory can be understood and applied in social and youth work services.
Reaffirming the Campus as a Sacred Space: A Japanese Case Study
Authors: Berman Naomi
Published: September 2023

In light of the considerable transformations in higher education that have had an impact on traditional campus experiences, this paper explores the role of university campuses as sacred spaces for young people. In particular, it examines the significance of the material environment in shaping young peoples’ experiences and social memberships within higher education institutions. Drawing on qualitative research, namely digital walkthrough interviews conducted at a Japanese institution during the COVID-19 pandemic, this paper argues that the physical spaces of a university produce special meaning and unexpected attachments for young people, and thus warrants greater attention as a site for social interaction and exchange. It will be shown that there is a need to look beyond the instrumental and purely pedagogic needs of students and place a greater emphasis on efforts to build more socially supportive campus environments. As universities continue the process of reinventing themselves to better fit the ‘new normal’ in a post-pandemic environment, this paper advocates for more consideration of the everyday needs of young people with regard to meaningful interaction, connection and belonging, and how regarding the campus as a sacred space for practices of placemaking and shared experience offers a pathway to fulfill these needs.
Insights from a comparative GIS-MCDA groundwater vulnerability assessment in a granitic and metasedimentary fractured rock media
Authors: Teixeira José , Chaminé Helder I. , Martins Carvalho José , Pérez-Alberti Augusto , Rocha Fernando
Published: September 2023

This work proposes a comprehensive methodology for evaluating fissured hard-rock groundwater resources through an integrative approach based on fieldwork techniques, Geographic Information System (GIS)-based mapping, geospatial analysis and multiple-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). The study sites comprise distinct geological settings and geographic contexts, i.e. granitic rocks (NW Portugal) and metasedimentary rocks (SW Spain). A similar methodological approach was used in both areas to compare and assess the methodological approaches’ effectiveness. The cartographic, field, and laboratory data were analysed through GIS overlay and multi-criteria spatial analysis. This GIS-integrated analysis allowed the calculation of the Infiltration Potential Index (IPI) and groundwater vulnerability indexes: GOD-S, DRASTIC-Fm, SI and DISCO, as well as the development and improvement of the hydrogeological conceptual models. At the Entre-os-Rios site (NW Portugal), the IPI index showed that the most favourable areas for infiltration are the fractured granitic regions, where the slope has the lowest values, combined with forest areas. The recharge values are around 70 to 90 mm/year. Considering hydraulic connection with the borehole data, the DISCO index identified the geostructures with the most important trending to NNE-SSW, NE-SW and WNW-ESE in the area. The highest IPI values were identified in the regional aquifer quartzite unit at Herrera del Duque (SW Spain). The recharge values are around 60 to 80 mm/year. The DISCO index identified zones where discontinuities have a higher hydraulic connection to the borehole, mainly trending NW-SE and NE-SW. The models developed could be helpful for decision-making and sustainable water resources management regarding the planning of hydrogeological investigations, delineating potential contamination areas, and the definition of catchment protection areas.
Development of a tissue-engineered skin model with epidermal, dermal and hypodermal components
Authors: Workman V. L. , Giblin A-V. , Green N. H. , MacNeil S. , Hearnden V.
Published: September 2023

Tissue-engineered models of skin have evolved over the past 50 years, have successfully been translated to clinical use and continue to be improved using new technologies. However, very few of these constructs incorporate a hypodermal component. The hypodermis is critical to skin homeostasis, skin function and many skin diseases, but our understanding of the hypodermis is limited in comparison to our knowledge of the epidermis and dermis, in part due to a lack of suitable in vitro models.

The purpose of this study was to develop and characterise a tissue-engineered model of skin consisting of epidermal, dermal and hypodermal layers, namely a trilayer skin model. Models were produced by culturing human keratinocytes and fibroblasts on decellularised human dermis in combination with explanted human adipose tissue.

Bilayer models of skin, comprising of an epidermis and dermis, had a thicker epidermal component compared to trilayer models but exhibited similar cytokeratin expression patterns (AE1/AE3 and cytokeratin 14). Addition of adipose tissue improved the appearance of the dermal-epidermal junction, increased the number of rete ridge-like features and cells maintained similar levels of proliferation (Ki-67) compared to native tissues over 28 days in culture.

This technique enabled us to create a physiologically relevant model of human skin with representative morphology across the hypodermis, dermis and epidermis. This model maintained native extracellular matrix architecture, contained a heterogeneous population of cells and has the potential to be applied to a range of different applications where research questions require the inclusion of a hypodermis.
Street Object Detection from Synthesized and Processed Semantic Image: A Deep Learning Based Study
Authors: Goswami Parthaw , Hossain A. B. M. Aowlad
Published: September 2023

Semantic image synthesis plays an important role in the development of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Street objects detection might be erroneous during raining or when images from vehicle’s camera are blurred, which can cause serious accidents. Therefore, automatic and accurate street object detection is a demanding research scope. In this paper, a deep learning based framework is proposed and investigated for street object detection from synthesized and processed semantic image. Firstly, a Conditional Generative Adversarial Network (CGAN) has been used to create the realistic image. The brightness of the CGAN generated image has been increased using neural style transfer method. Furthermore, Enhanced Super-Resolution Generative Adversarial Networks (ESRGAN) based image enhancement concept has been used to improve the resolution of style-transferred images. These processed images exhibit better clarity and high fidelity which is impactful in the performance improvement of object detector. Finally, the synthesized and processed images were used as input in a Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (Faster R-CNN) and a MobileNet Single Shot Detector (MobileNetSSDv2) model separately for object detection. The widely used Cityscape dataset is used to investigate the performance of the proposed framework. The results analysis shows that the used synthesized and processed input improves the performance of the detectors than the unprocessed counterpart. A comparison of the proposed detection framework with related state of the art techniques is also found satisfactory with a mean average precision (mAP) around 32.6%, whereas most of the cases, mAPs are reported in the range of 20–28% for this particular dataset.