bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Simple Oral Dental Extraction on Systemic Serum Amyloid A Concentrations in Horses
Authors: Sidwell Amelia E. , Duz Marco , Khan Adeel , Bodnàr Ronald , Hole Sam Luis
Published: November 2024

Background

The translocation of gingival commensals resulting in measurable systemic inflammation has been described in humans and non‐equine veterinary species with dental disorders, particularly periodontal disease. Routine odontoplasty does not result in increased serum amyloid A (SAA) concentration in horses, but a measurable increase in SAA concentration in horses undergoing dental extractions could suggest that local inflammation resulting from more severe dental disease has potential for wider, systemic consequences that warrants further study.

Objectives

To determine whether SAA increases in horses undergoing simple, oral extraction of non‐fractured cheek teeth with and without periodontal disease.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

SAA was measured using a stall‐side test in horses undergoing simple oral extraction of cheek teeth with intact clinical crowns at baseline (T = 0), 24 h (T = 24) and 48 h (T = 48) post‐extraction.

Results

Eight horses and 4 ponies aged between 4 and 23 years underwent cheek tooth extraction. A statistically significant difference in SAA concentration was noted between groups with and without periodontal disease at both 24 h (p = 0.004) and 48 h (p = 0.043). At 24 h, the median SAA concentration was 135 mg/L (range: 0–260 mg/L; IQR: 77.5–174 mg/L) in horses with periodontal disease and 27.5 mg/L (range: 0–47 mg/L; IQR: 4.8–43.5 mg/L) in horses without periodontal disease. At 48 h, median SAA concentration was 264 mg/L (range: 236–440 mg/L; IQR: 245.5–300.5 mg/L) in horses with periodontal disease and 0 mg/L (range = 0–41 mg/L; IQR: 0–21.8 mg/L) in horses without periodontal disease.

Main Limitations

Small sample group. Horses undergoing extraction of fractured cheek teeth were not included.

Conclusions

Extraction of non‐fractured cheek teeth does not result in a remarkable increase in SAA, except in horses with periodontal disease. These results suggest that periodontal disease in horses is associated with a local inflammatory response, which in turn drives the development of systemic inflammation, resulting in detectable increases in inflammatory markers when diseased periodontal tissues are disturbed.
The impact of invasive alien species on threatened and endangered species: A geographic perspective
Authors: Haines Aaron M. , Costante Delaney M. , Freed Cameala , Achayaraj Gokul , Bleyer Lauren , Emeric Caroline , Fenton Lily A. , Lielbriedis Laura , Ritter Emily , Salerni Gina I. , Stieha Christiopher R. , Isdell Robert E. , Leu Matthias
Published: November 2024

Invasive alien species (IAS) are one of the most serious threats to global biodiversity and one of the leading causes of federal protection required for native species under the United States Endangered Species Act (ESA). Our goal was to document how IAS impact threatened and endangered species (T&ES) under the ESA to improve recovery efforts. We reviewed Federal Register listing decisions for 1,545 T&ES listed under the ESA and found that 58% were impacted by IAS. Pacific Island T&ES (97%) face greater threats from IAS compared to Mainland (38%) and Atlantic Island T&ES (22%), but the number of IAS impacting T&ES has increased over time in all 3 geographic areas, except for animals on Atlantic Islands. On Pacific Islands, we found that IAS impacted T&ES most through adverse habitat modification and competition, mainly through invasive plants. Negative interactions caused by IAS on the Mainland were mainly from invasive fish and plants, while on the Atlantic Islands they were caused by invasive mammals and plants. The IAS causing the greatest number of negative interactions included rats (Rattus), wild pigs (Sus), goats (Capra), fish (e.g., Lepomis and Micropterus), and various genera of plants (e.g., Schinus, Rubus, and Psidium). Based on our findings, immediate actions are needed to protect native biodiversity in the U.S. from IAS, especially on Pacific Islands. Such management actions include eradication of IAS, restoration of native habitat, development of robust policies that aim to prevent the further spread and establishment of IAS, and effective decision support tools. These actions will require coordinated leadership to improve recovery of T&ES, especially given the synergistic impacts of international trade and climate change.
Gray wolf breeders are more vulnerable to harvest during the breeding season
Authors: Rebholz Peter F. , Waits Lisette P. , Ausband David E.
Published: November 2024

In cooperatively breeding carnivores, breeders are vital to perpetuating the group; the death or removal of an individual breeder can greatly affect group composition, genetic content, and short‐term population growth. Understanding the number of breeders harvested and timing of harvest can increase our knowledge of how mortality affects groups of cooperative breeders. Gray wolves (Canis lupus) in Idaho, USA, are exposed to annual harvest and are an ideal species for studying the effects of harvest on breeder turnover. We combined genotypes from tissue samples of harvested wolves with parentage analyses and cementum annuli ages and estimated when and how many breeding wolves were harvested. We genotyped and aged 229 adults and 203 pups using tissue and tooth samples from wolves harvested between 2014 and 2016. We identified a minimum count of 33 breeders in the harvest and found that they were disproportionately harvested more during the breeding season. We estimated that a minimum of ~14.5% of adult wolves harvested annually, or approximately 1 in 7, were breeders. We posit their behavior during breeding season may increase their vulnerability to harvest. By linking animal life history with vulnerability to human‐caused mortality we show that managers could structure harvest seasons so there is less overlap with wolves’ breeding season if there is concern about the demographic consequences of harvesting breeders.
Periodontal and peri-implant bleeding on probing in patients undergoing supportive maintenance: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Outatzis Antares , Nickles Katrin , Petsos Hari , Eickholz Peter
Published: November 2024

Objective

Assessment of periodontal and peri-implant inflammation, evidenced by bleeding on probing (BOP), among partially dentate patients receiving supportive periodontal care (SPC).

Material & methods

Patient charts from the Center for Dentistry and Oral Medicine of Goethe-University Frankfurt with at least one dental implant were reviewed. Measurements included probing pocket depth (PPD), BOP, and full-mouth bleeding and plaque scores for all teeth and implants.

Results

100 patients (median; lower/upper quartile: age 68.9; 62.6/76.5 years; 51 females, 6 smokers, 16 with anticoagulative medication, 6 localized stage III, 57 generalized stage III, 37 stage IV, 70 grade B, 30 Grade C, 22; 20/25 teeth left, 2; 1/4 implants) were examined. Peri-implant BOP (24; 11.5/41.5%) was significantly higher than BOP at teeth (14; 8/21.5%) (p < 0.001). A median of 0 (0/1) implants exhibited no BOP and 0 (0/1) only one site with BOP. Shallow pockets (PPD 1–3 mm) were significantly more frequent in teeth (93; 87/97%) than in implants (72.5; 58/94.5%; p < 0.001). Moderately deep pockets (PPD 4 and 5 mm) were less frequent in teeth compared to implants (6; 2/11%; 22; 5.5/33%; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Peri-implant sites exhibit a higher prevalence of BOP compared to periodontal sites in SPC patients.

Clinical relevance

Practitioners providing supportive periodontal care to patients with dental implants should anticipate a greater prevalence of BOP around implants compared to teeth.
Distributions and Correlation Properties of Offshore Wind Speeds and Wind Speed Increments
Authors: Sim So-Kumneth , Maass Philipp , Roman H.  Eduardo
Published: November 2024

We determine distributions and correlation properties of offshore wind speeds and wind speed increments by analyzing wind data sampled with a resolution of one second for 20 months at different heights above sea level in the North Sea. Distributions of horizontal wind speeds can be fitted to Weibull distributions with shape and scale parameters varying weakly with the vertical height separation. Kullback–Leibler divergences between distributions at different heights change with the squared logarithm of the height ratio. Cross-correlations between time derivatives of wind speeds are long-term anticorrelated, and the even parts of their correlation functions satisfy sum rules. Distributions of horizontal wind speed increments change from a tent-like shape to a Gaussian with rising increment lag. A surprising peak occurs in the left tail of the increment distributions for lags in a range $$10-200\,{km}$$

10
-
200

km

after applying the Taylor’s hypothesis locally to transform time lags into distances. The peak is decisive in order to obtain an expected and observed linear scaling of third-order structure functions with distance. This suggests that it is an intrinsic feature of atmospheric turbulence.
Deep learning automatically distinguishes myocarditis patients from normal subjects based on MRI
Authors: Hatfaludi Cosmin-Andrei , Roșca Aurelian , Popescu Andreea Bianca , Chitiboi Teodora , Sharma Puneet , Benedek Theodora , Itu Lucian Mihai
Published: November 2024

Myocarditis, characterized by inflammation of the myocardial tissue, presents substantial risks to cardiovascular functionality, potentially precipitating critical outcomes including heart failure and arrhythmias. This investigation primarily aims to identify the optimal cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) views for distinguishing between normal and myocarditis cases, using deep learning (DL) methodologies. Analyzing CMRI data from a cohort of 269 individuals, with 231 confirmed myocarditis cases and 38 as control participants, we implemented an innovative DL framework to facilitate the automated detection of myocarditis. Our approach was divided into single-frame and multi-frame analyses to evaluate different views and types of acquisitions for optimal diagnostic accuracy. The results demonstrated a weighted accuracy of 96.9%, with the highest accuracy achieved using the late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) 2-chamber view, underscoring the potential of DL in distinguishing myocarditis from normal cases on CMRI data.
Putting biomonitors to work: native moss as a screening tool for solid waste incineration
Authors: Jovan Sarah , Jacobson Eleonore , Unrine Jason M. , Jalili-Jahani Nasser , McCune Bruce
Published: November 2024

Solid waste incineration (SWI) can release numerous air pollutants although the geographic reach of emissions is not routinely monitored. While many studies use moss and lichens for biomonitoring trace elements, including around SWIs, few investigate the complex, multi-element footprint expected from SWI emissions. This study develops using native moss as a screening tool for SWI while also informing community concerns about an aging incinerator in rural Oregon, USA. Trained community volunteers helped collect 36 composite samples of epiphytic moss (Orthotrichum s.l.) along a 32-km transect from the SWI. We used ICP-MS to measure 40 elements in moss, including 14 rare earth elements (REEs) previously unexplored for SWI. We compared the elemental signatures of samples with an emissions profile for SWI and modeled relationships between element concentrations and distance from the facility using nonparametric regression. The chemical signatures in moss pointed to SWI as a source, potentially through both stack and fugitive dust emissions. The strongest models described farther-dispersing elements, including mercury and cadmium (xR2 = 0.65 and 0.62, respectively), and suggested most deposition occurs within 5 to 10 km of the facility. Elements often associated with soil and dust, like arsenic and chromium, exhibited localized peaks within 0.2 km of the incinerator (xR2 = 0.14–0.3). Three novel elements—cesium and REEs europium and gadolinium—also showed promise as atmospheric tracers for SWI. Gadolinium, a contrast reagent for MRIs, could reflect medical waste incineration by the facility. We include additional analysis and discussion to help stakeholders use results effectively.
Circular economy in firms’ strategies—What are the determinants of eco-innovation?
Authors: Massapina Maria , Meireles Mónica , Madaleno Mara
Published: November 2024

Sustainability is a growing theme in society, and associated with it is the concept of circular economy (CE) that tries to reuse products for greater durability, thus contributing to reducing waste and pollution. A very important agent in this topic is eco-innovation (EI), which can be developed to promote the growth of this new economic concept. This study intends to determine the key drivers of EI for Portuguese companies, considering their evolution towards a circular economy. Using a Tobit model and data from the CIS, all the variables identified in the literature review were tested to understand their impact on firms’ performance by measuring turnover growth (TG). Verifying all variables’ effects was impossible from the estimations because not all were significant. Our findings allow concluding that not all drivers that appeared to have a positive impact on the TG had one. Therefore, the results show that not all theoretical drivers of eco-innovation are, in fact, drivers and may even represent negative impacts for the company, contrary to what one would predict. The negative effect that is still notorious regarding the costs that companies have associated with the implementation of these new measures should also be highlighted. It represents one of the biggest inhibitors for companies to integrate this action into their internal strategies.
Speed of Sound Measurements for Liquid Squalane Up to a Pressure of 20 MPa
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Windmann Thorsten , Vrabec Jadran
Published: November 2024

The speed of sound of liquid squalane is measured with the double-path pulse-echo technique, utilizing a piezoelectric quartz (8 MHz) positioned between two reflectors with distinct path lengths. Calibration of the apparatus is carried out with water, for which highly accurate reference data exist. The present experiments with squalane cover the temperature range from 298.15 K to 493.15 K and a pressure from 0.1 MPa to 20 MPa. The total relative expanded ($$k = 2$$

k
=
2

) uncertainty $$U_r(w)$$

U
r

(
w
)

for the speed of sound is estimated to be ±0.1 %. The present data are consistent with literature values, which are, however, only available at ambient pressure. To validate the present speed of sound measurements, the density and isobaric heat capacity are integrated numerically from the sampled data over most of the measurement range, employing rigorous thermodynamic identities. With deviations of about 0.1 %, the resulting density data are favorably compared with literature values. The resulting isobaric heat capacity, for which just a single reference with data at pressures above the ambient exists, deviates by up to 6 %.
A branch-and-bound algorithm for parametric mixed-binary nonlinear programs
Authors: Pangia Andrew C. , Wiecek Margaret M.
Published: November 2024

As rapid response to changes becomes more imperative, optimization under uncertainty has continued to grow in both the continuous and mixed-integer fields. We design a branch-and-bound (BB) algorithm for mixed-binary nonlinear optimization problems with parameters in general locations. At every node of the BB tree we apply a state-of-the-art algorithm we have recently developed to approximately optimize parametric programs containing objectives and constraints biconvex in the variables and parameters. Numerical results are included.
The effect of COVID-19: to what extent does food delivery substitute eating out trips in Yogyakarta, Indonesia?
Authors: Muchlisin Muchlis , Soza-Parra Jaime , Ettema Dick
Published: November 2024

The study aims to assess the impact of information and communication technology (ICT) on travel and out-of-home activity by analyzing primary data collected from ride-hailing app users in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia. The data was analyzed using a random effect ordered logistic panel model. The results indicate a complementary relationship between food delivery and eating out. Individuals who frequently use food delivery services are more likely to also engage in eating out activities, and vice versa. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on these behaviors. Eating out experienced a substantial decrease during the pandemic, while food delivery remained stable. The findings highlight that food delivery cannot easily replace the experience of eating out, even under lockdown conditions. Overall, this study provides insights into the dynamics between food delivery and eating out, emphasizing the complexities and limitations of substituting one with the other.
Bias Sensitivity in Diagnostic Decision-Making: Comparing ChatGPT with Residents
Authors: Schmidt Henk G. , Rotgans Jerome I , Mamede Silvia
Published: November 2024

Background

Diagnostic errors, often due to biases in clinical reasoning, significantly affect patient care. While artificial intelligence chatbots like ChatGPT could help mitigate such biases, their potential susceptibility to biases is unknown.

Methods

This study evaluated diagnostic accuracy of ChatGPT against the performance of 265 medical residents in five previously published experiments aimed at inducing bias. The residents worked in several major teaching hospitals in the Netherlands. The biases studied were case-intrinsic (presence of salient distracting findings in the patient history, effects of disruptive patient behaviors) and situational (prior availability of a look-alike patient). ChatGPT’s accuracy in identifying the most-likely diagnosis was measured.

Results

Diagnostic accuracy of residents and ChatGPT was equivalent. For clinical cases involving case-intrinsic bias, both ChatGPT and the residents exhibited a decline in diagnostic accuracy. Residents’ accuracy decreased on average 12%, while the accuracy of ChatGPT 4.0 decreased 21%. Accuracy of ChatGPT 3.5 decreased 9%. These findings suggest that, like human diagnosticians, ChatGPT is sensitive to bias when the biasing information is part of the patient history. When the biasing information was extrinsic to the case in the form of the prior availability of a look-alike case, residents’ accuracy decreased by 15%. By contrast, ChatGPT’s performance was not affected by the biasing information. Chi-square goodness-of-fit tests corroborated these outcomes.

Conclusions

It seems that, while ChatGPT is not sensitive to bias when biasing information is situational, it is sensitive to bias when the biasing information is part of the patient’s disease history. Its utility in diagnostic support has potential, but caution is advised. Future research should enhance AI’s bias detection and mitigation to make it truly useful for diagnostic support.
Arbeitszufriedenheit und Arbeitsbedingungen des DGPuK-Mittelbaus: Eine Bestandsaufnahme vor dem Hintergrund aktueller wissenschaftspolitischer Entwicklungen
Authors: Rihl Alexander , Link Elena , Jakob Alina , Lück-Benz Julia , Stehr Paula , Thiele Franziska
Published: November 2024

Die vorliegende Untersuchung stellt die erste Welle einer langfristig angelegten Trendstudie dar, die darauf abzielt, die Zufriedenheit des DGPuK-Mittelbaus mit den Arbeitsbedingungen in der Wissenschaft systematisch und evidenzbasiert zu erfassen. Besonderes Augenmerk der Auswertung des Basisteils (spezifischere Teilauswertungen folgen) liegt auf der Wahrnehmung der Arbeitsumstände und deren Einfluss auf die berufliche Zufriedenheit. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die Arbeitszufriedenheit insgesamt moderat ist, eine Karriere in der Wissenschaft aber eher nicht als empfehlenswert wahrgenommen wird. Dabei spielen verschiedene Faktoren, wie Arbeitsbelastung, organisatorische Unterstützung und Karrieremöglichkeiten, eine zentrale Rolle. Es wird deutlich, dass insbesondere die berufliche Unsicherheit und die unklaren Karriereperspektiven als belastend empfunden werden. Die Studie bietet damit wertvolle Einblicke in die aktuelle Situation des Mittelbaus und legt den Grundstein für zukünftige Erhebungswellen, die die Entwicklung der Zufriedenheit im Zeitverlauf abbilden können. Die Erkenntnisse sollen dazu beitragen, gezielte Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Arbeitsbedingungen zu entwickeln und eine Datenbasis für das wissenschaftspolitische Engagement der Fachgesellschaft bieten.
Mit dem Rollstuhl durch ein Psychotherapiestudium mit psychodramatischem Finale
Authors: Ploier Paulus
Published: November 2024

In diesem Artikel der Zeitschrift für Psychodrama und Soziometrie beschreibt der ab dem Halswirbel gelähmte Psychodrama-Therapeut in Ausbildung unter Supervision Paulus Ploier seinen Weg zur Psychodrama-Ausbildung. Hierbei listet er positive wie negative Erfahrungen in Sachen Inklusion auf.
Hemoglobin is associated with hypertension-mediated cardiovascular damages in hypertensive patients with high-altitude polycythemia
Authors: Yang Xiangyu , Li Hongwei , Zhang Jie , Yang Xiajiao , Che Qianqiu , Cai Zhengyao , Cao Yuting , Fu Yongxing , Zhao Jinghua , Zhang Xin , Chen Xiaoping , Zhao Liming
Published: November 2024

High-altitude polycythemia (HAPC) is a pathological state resulting from maladaptation to prolonged high-altitude exposure, posing significant risks to the cardiovascular health of highlanders. However, its influence on hypertension-mediated organ damages (HMODs) in hypertensive individuals remains unclear. We recruited hypertensive patients residing at altitudes above 2500 m for over 3 years. A case–control matching was conducted in a 1:1 ratio between hypertensive patients with and without HAPC, based on gender and age. Echocardiography, carotid artery ultrasound, and brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD) were measured as HMODs. A total of 88 hypertensive patients were included in the analysis, with 44 with HAPC and 44 without HAPC. Patients with HAPC showed significantly higher hemoglobin (HGB) levels (217.82 ± 17.34 vs. 160.16 ± 13.25, P<0.001), a larger left atrium (LA) diameter (35.36 ± 4.25 vs. 33.09 ± 3.55, P = 0.008), and a higher proportion of impaired FMD (95.45% vs. 79.55%, P = 0.049) compared to those without HAPC. No significant differences were found between the two groups in diastolic function parameters, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), relative wall thickness (RWT), or intima-media thickness (IMT). After adjusting for age, gender, and other confounding factors, HGB remained significantly associated with LA diameter (β = 0.034, P = 0.023) and impaired FMD (OR = 1.034, 95% CI 1.001–1.069). After matching for age and gender, hypertensive patients with HAPC exhibited a significantly larger LA diameter and a higher prevalence of impaired FMD compared to those without HAPC. Additionally, HGB was identified as an independent risk factor for both increased LA diameter and impaired FMD in hypertensive patients with HAPC.
Thriving… or Just Surviving? Autistic Journeys in Higher Education
Authors: Horlin Chiara , Almond Katie , Bowen Alex , Robertson Ashley
Published: November 2024

Purpose of Review

Here we synthesise key recent (2021–2024) research that aims to understand the experience of autistic people, both staff and students, who navigate the Higher Education (HE) environment.

Recent Findings

Autistic students and staff continue to experience a lack of flexible, consistent and personalised support within the HE context, and tensions remain between the benefits of disclosure and the discrimination that may result. Significant missed opportunities remain for greater social, emotional and practical supports for autistic members of the HE community.

Distinct barriers to both access and ‘flourishing’ for autistic people within HE remain. Personal narratives continue to describe a range of both positive and negative experiences within HE, yet it remains clear that HE may be inherently hostile in its setup, and that it takes a great deal of effort to fight against this.
Antisecretory Factor 16 (AF16): A Promising Avenue for the Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury—An In Vitro Model Approach
Authors: Vahrmeijer Nicola , Kriel Jurgen , Harrington Bradley M. , van Staden Anton Du Preez , Vlok Adriaan Johannes , Engelbrecht Lize , Du Toit Andre , Loos Ben
Published: November 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by an external mechanical force to the head, resulting in abnormal brain functioning and clinical manifestations. Antisecretory factor (AF16) is a potential therapeutic agent for TBI treatment due to its ability to inhibit fluid secretion and decrease inflammation, intracranial pressure, and interstitial fluid build-up, key hallmarks presented in TBI. Here, we investigated the effect of AF16 in an in vitro model of neuronal injury, as well as its impact on key components of the autophagy pathway and mitochondrial dynamics. N2Awt cells were treated with AF16, injured using a scratch assay, and analysed using confocal microscopy, correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM), flow cytometry, and western blotting. Our results reveal that AF16 enhances autophagy activity, regulates mitochondrial dynamics, and provides protection as early as 6 h post-injury. Fluorescently labelled AF16 was observed to localise to lysosomes and the autophagy compartment, suggesting a role for autophagy and mitochondrial quality control in conferring AF16-associated neuronal protection. This study concludes that AF16 has potential as a therapeutic agent for TBI treatment through is regulation of autophagy and mitochondrial dynamics.
The impact of aquatic animal disease information on consumer evaluation of the origin of juvenile shrimp for aquaculture
Authors: Karakawa Nanae , Sakai Yutaro , Yoshinaga Tomoyoshi
Published: November 2024

The invasion and spread of aquatic animal diseases from abroad reduces fisheries and aquaculture production and causes food security issues. If infection spreads to natural populations, it can also cause environmental issues. One measure to reduce such risks is the use of domestic seeds for aquaculture. This study aims to identify consumer preferences for domestic aquaculture seeds (juvenile shrimp) and how these preferences vary depending on what information is provided and on consumer sociodemographic characteristics. A discrete choice experiment was used in this study, and the results showed the following: (1) on average, environmental and food security information had no effect; (2) consumers responded more to the information the older they were, but this tended to weaken when they received both environmental and food security information; and (3) men and women responded contrastingly to food security information. Therefore, when providing consumers with information on aquatic animal diseases, it is necessary to consider the content and volume of the information depending on the gender and age of the target consumer group.
Prioritization of the Sustainable Development Goals in the sustainability transition process of sport organizations: national strategies and sport managers’ perspectives
Authors: Strittmatter Anna-Maria , Horbel Chris , Traberg Josephine , Strömberg Julius Z. , Bodemar Annika , Grønkjær Allan B. , Hanstad Dag Vidar
Published: November 2024

This study explores the relevance, and applicability, of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in relation to Norwegian sport organizations’ sustainability transition. The following research questions guided the study: (1) How do National Sport Governing Bodies (NGBs) strategically address and prioritize SDGs and why? (2) How does the strategic prioritization of SDGs align with sport managers’ perspectives? (3) What does their prioritization of SDGs imply about the progress of sustainability transition within the Norwegian sports sector? The qualitative study is based on three interviews with directors in NGBs, document analysis of 11 strategy documents by six NGBs’ and essays produced by 82 sport managers representing the respective NGBs. Data analysis was informed by neo-institutional theory and the waves of sustainability transition framework. In our sample, spanning a diverse range of sports, we observed that 10 different SDGs are seen as relevant for NGBs from a strategy perspective, while sport managers prioritized eight. There is a strong alignment between national strategies and sport managers’ perspectives which is explainable through coercive, mimetic and normative pressures within the organizational field of sports. This further demonstrates that SDG prioritization is linked to the sport political context. While the alignment of prioritization from different perspectives provides a solid foundation for advancing sustainability work, the missing link between the SDGs and organizational goals with concrete suggestions for measures witnesses that Norwegian sport organizations are still in the infancy of sustainable transition.
Rapid dynamic load estimation procedure for lifting propellers in forward flight
Authors: Möhren Felix , Bergmann Ole , Janser Frank , Braun Carsten , Schröder Kai-Uwe
Published: November 2024

Lifting propellers operate at oblique inflow and thus encounter severe dynamic loads during forward flight, impacting structural integrity, fatigue, and vibration. Numerical optimization approaches consider aerodynamic, structural mechanical, and aeroacoustic aspects within preliminary design. To also account for dynamic loads during forward flight, a novel procedure allows their rapid estimation. Based on steady-state simulations combining strip theory and finite beam elements, aerodynamic excitation, damping, and stiffness are defined in the frequency domain. Loads are derived through a linear inflow model and quasi-steady aerodynamics. Damping and stiffness loads are linearized and transferred into matrix form to calculate the frequency response. The computationally expensive need for simulations in the time domain is thus avoided. Applicability extends to both fixed and variable pitch lifting propellers utilized in large multicopters for cargo or passenger transportation. Comparisons to time-marching simulations show good agreement with deviations of approximately 10 %. The analytical derivation yields physical insights to understand and reduce dynamic loads and their magnification due to resonance.
A Comparative, Individual Values-Based Scoring Approach to the Secure Flourish Index Among Clinical Health Professions Students
Authors: Neary Stephanie , Doolittle Benjamin , Mueller Martina , Nichols Michelle
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate flourishing among medical (MD), physician assistant (PA), and nurse practitioner (NP) students, using the novel Secure Flourish Index (SFI).

Method

MD, PA, and NP students from two institutions completed the traditional SFI (tSFI), then applied a percentage weight to each of the six domains (maximum total 100%) based on perceived relative importance to their overall flourishing, creating a novel self-weighted SFI score (swSFI). The Bland–Altman (BA) plot was used to assess the magnitude of agreement between scores.

Results

The BA plot (n = 281) revealed a mean bias of .07(95% CI -.50,.63). Eighteen participants (6.4%) fell outside of the calculated BA limits of agreement [-9.31 [95% CI - 10.27,-8.45] and 9.45 [95% CI 8.49,10.41]]. Linear regression revealed the mean BA score is predictive of the mean difference between scores [R2 = 0.07, F(1,280) = 21.1, p < .001] indicating bias in agreement between the scoring systems as mean flourishing score changes.

Conclusion

Accounting for individual values is important when measuring student flourishing but is missing from current operant definitions. The overall mean difference (bias) in tSFI and swSFI scores is minimal (.07, possible range 0–120). However, the bias becomes larger as individual mean flourishing scores move towards both the high and low ends of the flourishing spectrum. This indicates that the influence of weighting flourishing domains is larger for individuals with high or low flourishing than those with moderate flourishing.
Navigating Uncharted Territory: A Qualitative Analysis of Challenges and Advantages Experienced by Early Career Medical Educators
Authors: Gundler Caroline M. , Allison Sara
Published: November 2024

With the growing demand for medical educators, it is increasingly important that institutions implement practices to recruit, retain, and promote the well-being of early career medical educators (ECMEs). However, the specific needs of this group remain somewhat unclear. The current study aimed to address this gap by utilizing qualitative analysis to identify challenges and advantages associated with ECME status. An anonymous, voluntary survey was administered on forums of professional societies for medical education and on social media platforms, and emailed to professional societies. The survey collected demographic information and qualitative data regarding ECMEs’ experiences. Data were collected from 39 participants who met the ECME criteria of having less than or equal to 10 years of teaching experience since obtaining a terminal degree. Thematic analysis revealed that the challenges of early career faculty were difficulty balancing responsibilities, lack of research and educational support, perceived inadequacies as a faculty member, and development of workplace friendships. The advantages were the ability to understand students, possessing specific knowledge and skills, and the ability to innovate. ECME professional development needs focused on development of skills, networking, and support. In conclusion, ECMEs encounter similar struggles faced by all medical educators; however, they have the least amount of experience navigating the hurdles of academia. To aid ECMEs, institutions and departments can focus on the implementation of meaningful professional development opportunities, support systems, and encouraging ECMEs’ strengths.
Assessing the effectiveness of bio-based oil in rejuvenating aged asphalt: a comprehensive physical, rheological, chemical, and mechanical examination
Authors: Al-Saffar Zaid Hazim , Hasan Heja Ghazi Mohamed , Mohialdeen Omar K. , Dulaimi Anmar
Published: November 2024

The utilization of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in flexible pavement construction and rehabilitation has gained significant traction, driven by the need to conserve limited natural resources. This study explores the effectiveness of bio-based oils derived from harvested crops as rejuvenators in asphalt mixtures containing 50% RAP. Comprehensive assessments were conducted, including penetration, softening point, viscosity and ductility tests, to determine the optimal rejuvenator dosage. Additionally, evaluations of rolling thin film oven (RTFO) aging, retained penetration and ductility, equivalent softening and breaking points, plasticity temperature range, stiffness modulus, complex modulus, and phase angle were performed. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Marshall immersion, and moisture susceptibility tests further validated the rejuvenator's efficacy in improving asphalt properties. The incorporation of 1.8% bio-oil significantly reduced the viscosity of the mixtures, enhancing workability. The rejuvenator effectively compensated for the loss of light components in aged binders, restoring the maximum and minimum temperature performance to levels comparable to virgin asphalt (VA). Mechanical testing revealed that bio-oil mitigated the aging effects of RAP asphalt, and the rejuvenated mixtures showed considerable improvements over both VA and non-rejuvenated RAP mixtures, where the rejuvenated specimens achieved 90.8 and 89.4% of retained strength index (RSI) values for 24- and 48-h immersion periods, respectively comparing with 88.9 and 86% post-immersion of VA for similar durations. These findings underscore the potential of bio-oil as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for rejuvenating aged asphalts, paving the way for more sustainable asphalt production practices.
Do Human Reinforcement Learning Models Account for Key Experimental Choice Patterns in the Iowa Gambling Task?
Authors: Janbesaraei Sherwin Nedaei , Rasanan Amir Hosein Hadian , Nejati Vahid , Rad Jamal Amani
Published: November 2024

The Iowa gambling task (IGT) is widely used to study risky decision-making and learning from rewards and punishments. Although numerous cognitive models have been developed using reinforcement learning frameworks to investigate the processes underlying the IGT, no single model has consistently been identified as superior, largely due to the overlooked importance of model flexibility in capturing choice patterns. This study examines whether human reinforcement learning models adequately capture key experimental choice patterns observed in IGT data. Using simulation and parameter space partitioning (PSP) methods, we explored the parameter space of two recently introduced models—Outcome-Representation Learning and Value plus Sequential Exploration—alongside four traditional models. PSP, a global analysis method, investigates what patterns are relevant to the parameters’ spaces of a model, thereby providing insights into model flexibility. The PSP study revealed varying potentials among candidate models to generate relevant choice patterns in IGT, suggesting that model selection may be dependent on the specific choice patterns present in a given dataset. We investigated central choice patterns and fitted all models by analyzing a comprehensive data pool (N = 1428) comprising 45 behavioral datasets from both healthy and clinical populations. Applying Akaike and Bayesian information criteria, we found that the Value plus Sequential Exploration model outperformed others due to its balanced potential to generate all experimentally observed choice patterns. These findings suggested that the search for a suitable IGT model may have reached its conclusion, emphasizing the importance of aligning a model’s parameter space with experimentally observed choice patterns for achieving high accuracy in cognitive modeling.
The effect of geotechnical soil properties on cbr value: review
Authors: Pule Botlhe B. , Yendaw Jerome A.
Published: November 2024

This review paper summarizes the current state of research on relationships between geotechnical soil’s properties and the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) value. Geotechnical elements are pivotal in preventing civil engineering projects from collapses and settlement failures, so understanding detailed soil properties is an important task. CBR tests are used to assess the stiffness modulus and shear strength and guide the overlaying layer’s thickness in pavement designs. Despite such tests’ high expense and complexity, researchers have explored correlations and machine learning for CBR prediction from soil properties. This paper would delve into the varying influence of such properties as compaction properties (OMC and MDD) and index properties (LL, PL, and PI). By measuring the relevance of these properties to CBR, this paper examines their significance and potential interactions. In sum, this review sheds light on soil properties’ multifaceted effects on CBR value and provides support for informed pavement engineering decisions.
Optimizing Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) configurations integrated with transient industrial waste heat: a multi-objective approach
Authors: Engineer Yohan , Rezk Ahmed , Elsheniti Mahmoud B. , Baniasadi Ehsan , Fouly Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Decarbonizing heat-intensive industries by reusing the waste heat for power or combined heat and power systems is becoming increasingly important to address global warming. The Organic Rankine Cycle has shown a high level of feasibility and performed efficiently for utilizing medium-to-low-grade heat from renewable resources and heat-intensive industries for direct power generation. This study contributes to the field by conducting a techno-economic investigation of various Organic Rankine Cycle configurations to enhance energy conversion when real-life transient waste heat sources are available. These configurations were optimized to maximize energy output along with economic benefits. The non-linear programming by quadratic Lagrangian, a computational unintensive yet accurate optimization algorithm, was utilized for the multi-objective optimization. The optimized cycle configurations showed a 12.57% enhancement of turbine efficiency. Combining regeneration and recuperation enhanced the superheating by 32%, and the optimized air preheater cycle improved the overall objective by 64.2% compared to the pre-optimized conventional cycle, leading to a feasible 1.72-year payback period.
Examining pay–performance links: The role of capital owning and self-interest among board members in the high-tech industry
Authors: Mousa Fariss-Terry , Simha Aditya , Chowdhury Jaideep , Sahaym Arvin
Published: November 2024

Board of directors (BOD) bring valuable human and relational capital to firms but may act as self-interested agents by design. The purpose of this study is to investigate how the compensation of BOD members in high-technology sectors affects overall firm performance. We tested our specific hypotheses using panel regression methodology on data gathered from the CRSP, Compustat, BoardEx, and ExecuComp databases. Our final sample consisted of 9,127 firm years, and the companies in our sample were all high-tech publicly traded U.S. firms from 1992 to 2019. Our results showed that there is an association between BOD’s pay structure and firm performance (accounting-based return on assets and market-based Tobin’s Q). Our findings demonstrate originality and contribute to the literature since we empirically demonstrate that the level of variable BOD pay has a diminishing effect on return on assets and Tobin’s Q. This study advances our knowledge of executive compensation in the high technology sector.
Ultrastructural evidence shows adaptation to a pelagic lifestyle in Ordovician caryocaridids (Crustacea: phyllocarida)
Authors: Liu Yilong , Fan Ruo-ying , Du Xiaoqi , Ma Juan , Yin Jiayi , Zong Rui-wen , Gong Yi-ming
Published: November 2024

Caryocaridids are a unique representative of pelagic arthropods from the Ordovician period. They are typically found as flattened carapaces in mudstones and shales. This study reports on a species of caryocaridids, Soomicaris cedarbergensis, discovered in the Lower Ordovician of northwestern Xinjiang, NW China. The species shows the rare enrolled carapaces with a preserved cuticular ultrastructure. These specimens of caryocaridids from Xinjiang are the first reported in the Yili Block, and provide the substantial evidence that the paleogeographic distribution of caryocaridid phyllocarids could extend to the Central Asian Orogenic Belt. This species existed from the late Tremadocian until the end of the Ordovician (Hirnantian), making it the longest-ranging known species of caryocaridids. The carapace cuticle of S. cedarbergensis is composed of carbonate-fluorapatite and can be divided into three mineralized lamellae: outer, middle, and inner. The outer and inner lamellae each consist of three layers that correspond to the epicuticle, exocuticle, and endocuticle of extant crustacean carapaces. Moreover, the polygonal reticulation structure of the carapace in archaeostracans appears to be similar in shape and size to the hemolymph sinuses of leptostracans. This unique ultrastructure of the carapace cuticle in caryocaridids is believed to be better suited for a pelagic lifestyle.
Genetic variants in folate metabolism-related genes, serum folate and hepatocellular carcinoma survival: the Guangdong Liver Cancer Cohort study
Authors: Li Yunshan , Shu Jing , Tan Peishan , Dong Xiaocong , Zhang Mingjie , He Tongtong , Yang Zhijun , Zhang Xuehong , Giovannucci Edward L. , Liu Zhaoyan , Zhou Zhongguo , Li Qijiong , Xu Yanjun , Xu Xiaojun , Peng Tianyou , Lu Jialin , Zhang Yaojun , Zhu Huilian , Fang Aiping
Published: November 2024

Folate metabolism is involved in the development and progression of various cancers. We investigated the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in folate-metabolising genes and their interactions with serum folate concentrations with overall survival (OS) and liver cancer-specific survival (LCSS) of newly diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. We detected the genotypes of six SNP in three genes related to folate metabolism: methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase reductase (MTRR) and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase (MTR). Cox proportional hazard models were used to calculate multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) and 95 % CI. This analysis included 970 HCC patients with genotypes of six SNP, and 864 of them had serum folate measurements. During a median follow-up of 722 d, 393 deaths occurred, with 360 attributed to HCC. In the fully-adjusted models, the MTRR rs1801394 polymorphism was significantly associated with OS in additive (per G allele: HR = 0·84, 95 % CI: 0·71, 0·99), co-dominant (AG v. AA: HR = 0·77; 95 % CI: 0·62, 0·96) and dominant (AG + GG v. AA: HR = 0·78; 95 % CI: 0·63, 0·96) models. Carrying increasing numbers of protective alleles was linked to better LCSS (HR10–12 v. 2–6 = 0·70; 95 % CI: 0·49, 1·00) and OS (HR10–12 v. 2–6 = 0·67; 95 % CI: 0·47, 0·95). Furthermore, we observed significant interactions on both multiplicative and additive scales between serum folate levels and MTRR rs1801394 polymorphism. Carrying the variant G allele of the MTRR rs1801394 is associated with better HCC prognosis and may enhance the favourable association between higher serum folate levels and improved survival among HCC patients.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals that prolactin modulates the β-casein synthesis mechanism in bovine mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Zhang Yanying , Xu Ziru , Wang Xiaoxue , Hou Xiaoming , Yang Yang , Liu Ying , Lin Ye
Published: November 2024

This research communication screened and identified differentiated expressed genes in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) upon prolactin (PRL) stimulation. PRL of 5 μg/ml increased β-casein synthesis in BMECs with milk protein synthesis capacity. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs). A total of 375 DEGs (165 up-regulated and 210 down-regulated) were identified between PRL-stimulated group and the control group. Gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that the up-regulated genes were primarily associated with cell functions, metabolic processes, and biological regulatory processes. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that the up-regulated genes were mainly enriched in JAK-STAT, Rap1, Ras and Notch signaling pathways, which are widely involved in cell proliferation, differentiation and milk component synthesis. This study provides an initial understanding of the changes in gene expression in BMECs with PRL-stimulation, as determined by RNA-seq transcriptomic analysis, thereby enhancing our knowledge of the molecular regulation of lactation metabolism.