bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconstructing brain functional networks through identifiability and deep learning
Authors: Zanin Massimiliano , Aktürk Tuba , Yıldırım Ebru , Yerlikaya Deniz , Yener Görsev , Güntekin Bahar
Published: December 2023

We propose a novel approach for the reconstruction of functional networks representing brain dynamics based on the idea that the coparticipation of two brain regions in a common cognitive task should result in a drop in their identifiability, or in the uniqueness of their dynamics. This identifiability is estimated through the score obtained by deep learning models in supervised classification tasks and therefore requires no a priori assumptions about the nature of such coparticipation. The method is tested on EEG recordings obtained from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease patients, and matched healthy volunteers, for eyes-open and eyes-closed resting–state conditions, and the resulting functional networks are analysed through standard topological metrics. Both groups of patients are characterised by a reduction in the identifiability of the corresponding EEG signals, and by differences in the patterns that support such identifiability. Resulting functional networks are similar, but not identical to those reconstructed by using a correlation metric. Differences between control subjects and patients can be observed in network metrics like the clustering coefficient and the assortativity in different frequency bands. Differences are also observed between eyes open and closed conditions, especially for Parkinson’s disease patients.
Review of Cyphotes Burmeister, 1835 (Hemiptera: Membracidae) with the description of a related new genus
Authors: GONZALEZ-MOZO LAURA C. , WARE JESSICA L.
Published: December 2023

The Neotropical treehopper genus Cyphotes Burmeister, 1835 (= Aspona Stal, 1862 syn. nov.) is redefined. Cyphotes contains only two species, the type species Cyphotes nodosa Burmeister, 1835 (= Aspona bullata Stål, 1862 syn. nov.) and Cyphotes quadrinodosa (Fonseca & Diringshofen, 1969) reinstated. comb. Allocyphotes gen. nov. (type species Cyphotes insolita Goding, 1929) is proposed to accommodate two other species previously placed in Cyphotes, Allocyphotes pompanoni (Boulard, 2011) comb. nov. and Allocyphotes colombiensis (González-Mozo, 2017) comb. nov., and three new species from Ecuador: A. flavus sp. nov., A. waoraniorum sp. nov and A. robertoi sp. nov. for a total of six species. Illustrations, including genitalia images, new locality records and keys to genera and species are provided.
The Japanese species of Monoctenus (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae)
Authors: HARA HIDEHO , NAGASE HIROHIKO
Published: December 2023

The Japanese species of Monoctenus are revised and keyed. The following seven species and subspecies are recognized: M. cryptomeriae Togashi, 2001 from Honshu, M. decoratus Takeuchi, 1940 from Honshu, M. fujisanus Togashi, 2001 from Honshu, M. itoi Okutani, 1958 from Honshu, M. kondoi Hara, sp. nov. from Honshu, M. nipponicus Takeuchi, 1940 from Honshu and Awaji Island and M. obscuratus hokkaidonis Hara, subsp. nov. from Hokkaido. Their descriptions or additional descriptions are given. The host plant of M. kondoi is Juniperus rigida Siebold et Zucc. The host plant of M. obscuratus hokkaidonis is Juniperus communis L. var. montana Aiton.
Two new species of the spider genus Agyneta (Araneae, Linyphiidae) from Uruguay and Brazil
Authors: CAJADE MANUEL , HAGOPIÁN DAMIÁN , RODRIGUES EVERTON N. L. , LABORDA ÁLVARO , MALDONADO M. BELÉN , SIMÓ MIGUEL
Published: December 2023

Agyneta hum Cajade, Rodrigues & Simó n. sp. and Agyneta unguiserrata Cajade n. sp. are described and illustrated from Brazil and Uruguay based on males and females. Males of A. hum differ from the related A. adami (Millidge 1991) by having apical and posterior pocket of paracymbium, presence of dorsal tibial apophysis and the shape and surface of the cymbial tubercles. Females of A. hum differ from A. adami in having the margins of the proximal part of the scape parallel and the presence of a pit hook depression. Males of A. unguiserrata distinguished from all other congeners by having a dorsal tibial apophysis claw-shaped with denticles on the retrolateral margin. Females of A. unguiserrata distinguished from all other congeners by the presence of two elliptical processes in the epigynum. Illustrations of somatic and genital characters and distribution maps of the species are provided. These species constitute the first report of the genus for Uruguay.
The Tree-Crop Remote Sensing of Evapotranspiration Experiment (T-REX): A Science-Based Path for Sustainable Water Management and Climate Resilience
Authors: Bambach Nicolas , Knipper Kyle , McElrone Andrew J. , Nocco Mallika , Torres-Rua Alfonso , Kustas William , Anderson Martha , Castro Sebastian , Edwards Erica , Duran-Gomez Moises , Gal Andrew , Tolentino Peter , Wright Ian , Roby Matthew , Gao Feng , Alfieri Joseph , Prueger John , Hipps Lawrence , Saa Sebastian
Published: December 2023

Water scarcity threatens agriculture in California. During the last two decades, historically severe droughts have led to severe water shortages. Under projected changes in climate, droughts of greater severity and duration will exacerbate this situation. California produces 80% of the world’s almonds, which require consistent water supplies for irrigation. Almonds are the most commonly grown crop in California, covering nearly 1.4 million acres over about 8,000 farms. In response to these challenges, almond growers are considering a myriad of management strategies to save water and mitigate climate change. The Tree-Crop Remote Sensing of Evapotranspiration Experiment (T-REX) aims to identify water and orchard management opportunities to maximize water use efficiency and carbon sequestration in almonds and other woody perennial tree crops. The project combines satellite, uncrewed aerial vehicles, and proximal sensing technologies to retrieve key variables used to model surface fluxes and biophysical properties. We aim to advance our understanding of water management and cultural practices on water–carbon relationships in tree-perennial agroecosystems. Through new methods, such as evapotranspiration-based irrigation scheduling, even a modest 10% decrease in almond orchard irrigation across the state equates to about a third of the water in Lake Oroville, California’s second-largest reservoir, at average levels. From a carbon perspective, almond orchards could sequester 8% of the state’s current greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning toward climate-smart practices. As such, the almond industry is uniquely positioned to curb water use and contribute to climate change mitigation while maintaining economic viability of almond production. An overview of initial results related to evapotranspiration observational and modeling uncertainty and carbon sequestration potential are presented in this article.
Does Trade Openness and Human Capital abate Unemployment? Empirical Evidence from India
Authors: Amin Aadil , Tariq Asif , Ahmad Masroor
Published: December 2023

This study comprehensively investigates the impact of trade openness and human capital on India’s unemployment rate using time-series data from 1990 to 2019. The ARDL bound testing approach was used to determine the long and short-run relationship among the variables. The empirical findings indicate that trade openness and human capital have a negative impact on the unemployment rate in both the long and short run, suggesting that trade openness and human capital have reduced the unemployment rate in India. These results have significant implications for policymakers in crafting policies that promote continuous trade openness and help reduce unemployment in India. To succeed, trade liberalisation must be integrated into a reasonable set of structural and macroeconomic policies, supplemented by complementary policies such as maintaining an adequate inflation rate and macroeconomic stability and nurturing human capital. The study recommends that India should prioritise improving and enhancing efficient schooling and training programs, with a particular focus on career skills for young people. Policymakers can use the study’s findings to guide policy decisions to reduce unemployment and promote trade openness.

JEL Codes: E24, F14, F63, C32
Dilemma of Participation of Middle Class in Indian Democracy
Authors: Nigam Siddhi
Published: December 2023

Indian electorate consists of a heterogeneous mix of classes, castes, regions, linguistic and religious groups. In this set of multifarious sub-groups, continuously striving for their due shares in the developmental process and democratic system, the existence of the middle class is likely to thoroughly get diluted, whether it be in the political manifestos and government schemes. On the other hand, it is alleged that this class itself does not actively participate either in democracy or developmental process. This article aims to examine whether this impugned class is actually demotivated to participate or in general dormant in the matters of democracy. An analysis of research papers, reports and articles has been done to examine this dilemma along with analysing the reasons and dynamics of this dormancy from multiple perspectives. The article concludes that there is a rise of a ‘New middle-class’ in the present era which seeks to actively take part in democracy and in the course of time, a considerable number of people from the middle class have started voting prudently, ignoring the mere short-term benefits or social divisions which earlier used to be the prime guiding forces for them. Therefore, the article prompts plausible policy and legislative decisions on matters such as health, education and employment, which will persuade the middle class to actively engage and create an inclusive democracy.
India’s Anti-corruption Ombudsman–Lokpal: An Analysis
Authors: Sadashivam T. , Tabassum Shahla
Published: December 2023

The issue of corruption in public life has been seen across countries for a long time. India is also not immune from the problem of corruption. It is one of the most important challenges in the way to achieve effective governance. Thus, the need for an institution of the Ombudsman, especially at the national level to fight against corruption, has been debated and demanded. However, it is only in the second decade of the 21st century that the legislation for establishing an Ombudsman in the form of Lokpal came into effect. Although Lokpal in India is still in the initial stage of its existence, it is important to analyse its functioning to know its effectiveness and prospects. Thus, this article tries to analyse the functioning of Lokpal of India from its inception till the present.
College Students’ Experiences of Freedom, Isolation, Meaninglessness, and Death: A Qualitative Examination
Authors: Brown Megan E. , Alliegro Marissa C. , Prince Mark A.
Published: December 2023

College years are a time when individuals often have newfound independence, are forging their identity, and are making decisions that will affect their life beyond graduation. Existential anxiety (EA) is a psychological reaction to existential threats (e.g., freedom, death, isolation, and meaninglessness). EA has been shown to be positively correlated with externalizing behaviors in college students, and recent research has identified a significant increase in EA after the emergence of COVID-19. Extant research is lacking an in-depth, qualitative presentation of EA in college students. The present study aimed to acquire nuanced, personalized accounts of college students’ experiences with EA in their everyday lives and during COVID-19. Six focus groups were conducted where college students discussed themes related to EA. Thematic analysis revealed themes regarding college students’ experiences including: desiring connection in relationships, making responsible choices independently, craving structure amid newfound freedoms, choosing how to create meaning and purpose, and feeling uncertain about the future. Focus groups identified protective factors against EA including focusing on the present moment, creating structure, and following a belief system. General feedback on the focus groups revealed that students felt less alone after hearing their classmates’ experiences and felt EA should be talked about more often.
Bookshelf: Kappan authors on their favorite reads
Authors: Fusarelli Bonnie C. , Fusarelli Lance D.
Published: December 2023

In this regular column, Kappan authors recommend books that have influenced them. This month, Ferial Pearson recommends Case Studies on Diversity and Social Justice Education (2nd ed.) by Paul Gorksi and Seema Pothini. Bonnie C. Fusarelli and Lance D. Fusarelli recommend Savage Inequalities: Children in America’s Schools by Jonathan Kozol.
Learning with Leaders: Rally around the kids: Angélica Infante-Green
Authors: Lane James F.
Published: December 2023

In the Learning with Leaders column, PDK CEO James F. Lane talks with Angélica Infante-Green, the Rhode Island commissioner of elementary and secondary education. She shares how the students in her state have seen success in CTE programs. She also talks about how Rhode Island is changing the high school credit structure and suggests ways to create a robust pipeline for teachers.
Policy Solutions: Should superintendents be elected?
Authors: Collins Jonathan E.
Published: December 2023

Research shows that student achievement is higher when the district leadership is stable. Superintendent turnover, especially in urban areas, continues to rise, and many blame education politics for the leadership churn. Columnist Jonathan E. Collins proposes turning the superintendency into an elected position would solve the problem. Elections would give superintendents a guaranteed term of office and they could run as an incumbent on their record.
Under The Law: The incredibly shrinking zone of teacher free speech
Authors: Kim Robert
Published: December 2023

Schools, districts, and states are able to place some limits on what teachers can and cannot teach, but what of teachers’ free speech rights outside the classroom? Robert Kim examines long-standing U.S. Supreme Court rulings regarding free speech in school and considers how they might apply specifically to teachers’ free speech rights. He then surveys some recent district courts cases in which teachers were penalized for speech inside and outside the classroom. These cases suggest that it’s time to reexamine the role of teachers as representatives of the state.
A framework for modeling, generating, simulating, and predicting carbon dioxide dispersion indoors using cell-DEVS and deep learning
Authors: Khalil Hoda , Wainer Gabriel
Published: December 2023

Carbon dioxide concentration in enclosed spaces is an air quality indicator that affects occupants’ well-being. To maintain healthy carbon dioxide levels indoors, enclosed space settings must be adjusted to maximize air quality while minimizing energy consumption. Studying the effect of these settings on carbon dioxide concentration levels is not feasible through physical experimentation and data collection. This problem can be solved by using validated simulation models, generating indoor settings scenarios, simulating those scenarios, and studying results. In previous work, we presented a formal Cellular Discrete Event System Specifications simulation model for studying carbon dioxide dispersion in rooms with various settings. However, designers may need to predict the results of altering large combinations of settings on air quality. Generating and simulating multiple scenarios with different combinations of space settings to test their effect on indoor air quality is time-consuming. In this research, we solve the two problems of the lack of ground truth data and the inefficiency of producing and studying simulation results for many combinations of settings by proposing a novel framework. The framework utilizes a Cellular Discrete Event System Specifications model, simulates different scenarios of enclosed spaces with various settings, and collects simulation results to form a data set to train a deep neural network. Without needing to generate all possible scenarios, the trained deep neural network is used to predict unknown settings of the closed space when other settings are altered. The framework facilitates configuring enclosed spaces to enhance air quality. We illustrate the framework uses through a case study.
Cities for citizens! Public value spheres for understanding conflicts in urban planning
Authors: Herzog Rico H , Gonçalves Juliana E , Slingerland Geertje , Kleinhans Reinout , Prang Holger , Brazier Frances , Verma Trivik
Published: December 2023

Identifying the diverse and often competing values of citizens, and resolving the consequent public value conflicts, are of significant importance for inclusive and integrated urban development. Scholars have highlighted that relational, value-laden urban space gives rise to many diverse conflicts that vary both spatially and temporally. Although notions of public value conflicts have been conceived in theory, there are few empirical studies that identify such values and their conflicts in urban space. Building on public value theory and using a case-study mixed-methods approach, this paper proposes a new approach to empirically investigate public value conflicts in urban space. Using unstructured participatory data of 4528 citizen contributions from a Public Participation Geographic Information Systems in Hamburg, Germany, natural language processing and spatial clustering techniques are used to identify areas of potential value conflicts. Four expert interviews assess and interpret these quantitative findings. By integrating quantitative assessments with the qualitative findings of the interviews, we identify 19 general public values and nine archetypical conflicts. On the basis of these results, this paper proposes a new conceptual model of ‘Public Value Spheres’ that extends the understanding of public value conflicts and helps to further account for the value-laden nature of urban space.
Individual-Level Health Care Costs Attributable to Noncommunicable Diseases: A Longitudinal Study Based on the Older Adults in China
Authors: Zhao Shi-qi , Zhao Li-ping , Xu Xin-peng , You Hua
Published: December 2023

Noncommunicable chronic diseases among the elderly population represent a significant economic burden in China. However, previous disease-related health cost studies lacked representation of older adults and comparability of the burden of multiple chronic diseases. The objective of this study was to determine the fraction of health care costs attributable to the 6 most prevalent chronic diseases and comorbidities in the sample of older adults. This study employed data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), with 3 waves in 2011, 2014, and 2018, and included 18 349 observations in total. Outpatient costs, inpatient costs, and total health care costs were included in this study. Based on a 2-part random effects model, the effect of chronic disease on health service utilization was first explored by constructing a dummy variable for whether or not to utilize health care, followed by estimation of attributable costs in the population with health care utilization. Among the older adults in the sample, hypertension, heart disease, cataracts, arthritis, stroke or Cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and chronic lung disease are the 6 most prevalent chronic conditions. The costs attributable to the 6 chronic diseases mentioned above were 36.00% of outpatient costs, 55.92% of inpatient costs, and 45.05% of total health care costs for older adults. Of these, heart disease, stroke or CVD, and chronic lung disease accounted for 22.11%, 13.24%, and 10.56% of total health care costs, respectively. Moreover, the proportion of health care costs attributable to chronic diseases was higher for older adults who were male, lived in urban areas, and had a lower level of education. The proportion of health care costs attributable to chronic diseases is substantial among older adults in China. Health care costs associated with chronic diseases can be decreased with well-targeted interventions and comprehensive access to health services.
Early Childhood Professionals’ Challenges, Persistence, and Sensemaking in Teacher Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Stark Kristabel , Diaz Yanet Gomez , Trigueros Jennyfer , Ragunathan Maalavika
Published: December 2023

Objective/Research Question: Community college coursework is a crucial entry point for early childhood professionals seeking to advance their careers in education. In this study, we examine how degree candidates at a small community college experienced the shift to online learning and their reasons for persistence in college during the pandemic. Methods: Drawing on the theoretical framework of sensemaking, we conducted a thematic analysis of data from interviews with 19 early childhood professionals enrolled in teacher education coursework within one community college. Results: We found that degree candidates experienced the shift to online learning as both a barrier and facilitator to their educational obtainment, and that, during the pandemic, they remained highly committed to completing their degrees, motivated by financial advantages, career advancement, professional skill development, and the opportunity to be a role model for their own children. Conclusions/Contributions: Increasing the proportion of early childhood professionals who complete college degrees holds promise for improving children’s educational opportunities and addressing persistent structural inequities in the teacher workforce. By investigating how early childhood professionals made sense of the educational changes associated with the pandemic, this study provides insight into how community colleges can support students in their educational pursuits moving forward.
Techno-economic feasibility analysis of Kuwait-specific photovoltaic-based street lighting system
Authors: Muhaisen Naser Ahmad Naser , Habaebi Mohamed Hadi , Suliman Fakher Eldin M , Khan Sheroz , Elsheikh Elfatih AA , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Al Husaini Mohammed Abdulla Salim
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, the surge in energy demand due to economic growth and extreme weather conditions has put immense pressure on the usage of fossil fuels in Kuwait. As a result, scheduled load-shedding is performed in some regions during the summer season to meet the energy demand. To address this issue, this paper proposes a photovoltaic-based street lighting system as an alternative solution to meet the rising energy demand in Kuwait during the daytime. This study initially investigates the existing street lighting systems in the state of Kuwait. Subsequently, three different configurations of photovoltaic panels are proposed based on the existing streetlight pole structures. The simulation models are then developed and evaluated using physical security information management and PVSyst simulation platforms, aiming to validate their performance against conventional power generation models in Kuwait. The proposed photovoltaic system is designed based on feedback information collected from the existing installed capacity. Finally, an overall energy model is presented to demonstrate how solar potential can offset energy consumption during peak demand hours. Practical testbed data from the Al-Jahra residential area of Kuwait is used for validation. The results indicate that the proposed photovoltaic street lighting system can generate a maximum power output of 18.8 GWh in August and a minimum of 11.8 GWh in December, compared to the monthly consumption of 30.45 GWh. The study showcases the economic viability of the solution, with an average degradation ratio of 13% of the total cost. Moreover, the proposed system contributes to a reduction in CO2 emissions from traditional power plants.
Middle Ear Meningioma With Recurrence Secretory Otitis Media
Authors: Sun Haiying , Huang Qilin , Chen WeiBin , Hu Yujuan
Published: December 2023

Middle ear meningiomas (MEMs) are rare tumors that can present with nonspecific symptoms, posing challenges in diagnosis and management. This case report focuses on a middle-aged female patient who was misdiagnosed with secretory otitis media for 5 years. However, further evaluation through computed tomography imaging and subsequent pathologic biopsy revealed the presence of a MEM. The patient underwent surgical and gamma knife resection of the tumor and follow-up examination after 1 year showed no signs of recurrence. This case report highlights the importance of considering meningiomas in the differential diagnosis of middle ear pathologies and the need for careful preoperative planning for optimal outcomes. Overall, this case demonstrates that correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to successful management of MEMs.
Fatal Necrotizing Fasciitis Mediated by Escherichia coli After Parotidectomy and Neck Dissection: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Abdallah Zahra , Staibano Phillip , Zhang Han
Published: December 2023

Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a rare, but life-threatening, complication of head and neck surgery. We present a 70-year-old male with a history of immunosuppression who presented with polymicrobial NSTI following parotidectomy and neck dissection for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. The objective of this report was to promote awareness for NSTI following parotidectomy and selective neck dissection and highlight the management measures that can optimize survival outcomes. We performed a database search that identified 1,025 citations, of which 5 articles described classified as craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis following major head and neck surgery. Consent was obtained from the patient for inclusion in the research study and Institutional Review Board approval was waived. Our literature review yielded 6 cases of craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis following major head and neck surgery. This NSTI, however—unlike the others previously reported—was predominantly mediated by Escherichia coli, a bacterium associated with elevated mortality rates. Despite immediate awake fiberoptic intubation, repeated surgical debridement, and empirical antibiotic therapy, he deteriorated rapidly and was withdrawn from life-support on postoperative day seven. Prophylactic antibiotics, airway management, prompt diagnosis, and surgical debridement are critical for limiting mortality in NSTI of the head and neck.
A Rare Case of Basal Cell Adenocarcinoma of the Right Submandibular Gland
Authors: Lin Hong , Huang Jinqiao , Chen Xiufen , Chen Xian , Hu Weiqun
Published: December 2023

Basal cell adenocarcinoma of the submandibular gland is an extremely rare carcinoma of the salivary gland that originates from the basal cells of the submandibular gland. Due to its rarity, there are relatively few case reports and literature on this cancer. After comprehensive clinical, imaging, and pathologic analyses, we confirmed the patient’s diagnosis and documented the consultation in detail. The purpose of this article is to report the case of a patient with basal cell adenocarcinoma of the submandibular gland and to perform a review of the relevant literature to improve the understanding of this rare disease.
Explaining Returns Through Valuation
Authors: Johannesson Erik , Ohlson James A.
Published: December 2023

This article develops an analytically coherent yet parsimonious framework which explains market returns in terms of contemporaneous information. It anchors on the idea that valuation (static perspective) can be connected to the dynamics that explain returns, and vice versa. The framework requires two components. First, an explicit function that maps information to an estimate of value—a valuation heuristic. Second, the framework assumes that the difference between a firm’s actual value and value-per-heuristic follows an autoregressive stochastic process with a contraction parameter and no intercept. The contraction parameter can be estimated efficiently and nonparametrically. This modeling suffices to derive implied returns. Using scaled Earnings Per Share (``EPS'') forecasts as valuation heuristics, we empirically evaluate the framework’s validity and robustness. Its explanatory power compares favorably to that of traditional ordinary least squares (``OLS'') regressions, despite only requiring a single parameter. In a setting with pooled annual data, the implied and realized returns correlations range between 64% and 73%.
Mexican American Educational History: A Moment of Recognition
Authors: Barragán Goetz Philis M. , Donato Rubén , García David G. , Guzmán Gonzalo , Hanson Jarrod , Santiago Maribel
Published: December 2023

Mexican American educational history has become a vibrant field of study since the late 1980s. In the last seven years, however, it is notable that this research has inspired community-based efforts to preserve and publicly commemorate challenges to unequal education. In this commentary, we discuss the archival recovery of the Francisco Maestas et al. v. George Shone et al. case in Alamosa, Colorado; the excavation of El Colegio Altamirano in Hebbronville, Texas; the complexity of memorializing the Mendez v. Westminster case in Orange County, California; and the implications of archival and oral history research connected to the Soria v. Oxnard School Board of Trustees case in Oxnard, California. These examples illuminate the highly contested spaces that public schools held for Mexican Americans and the role scholars and communities can play in acknowledging those moments. We see public schooling as a place where liberation and hope can occur and where scholars and communities can engage together. This is a call to continue to create relationships that lead to the recognition of past struggles and acknowledge the enduring quest for educational equality.
An analysis of long-term survival after pneumonectomy for lung cancer: A retrospective study of 20 years
Authors: Ravishankar Ramanish , Hussain Azar , Arif Salman , Khan Tanveer , Gooseman Michael , Tentzeris Vasileios , Cowen Michael , Qadri Syed
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The incidence of pneumonectomy for lung cancer in the UK is continuing to decline in the era of minimally invasive thoracic surgery totalling approximately 3.5% of lung cancer resections annually. Literature is lacking for long-term survival of pneumonectomies. This study updates our previous results. Between 1998 and 2008, 206 patients underwent pneumonectomy compared to 98 patients between 2009 and 2018.

Methods

From January 1998 until December 2018, 304 patients underwent pneumonectomy. This was a retrospective study; data was analysed for age, gender, laterality, histology and time period.

Results

Operative mortality was 4.3% overall which was lower than the national average of 5.8%. In the last five years, there were no in-hospital, operative or 30-day mortality. During this period, 90-day mortality was 9.2%. Left-sided pneumonectomies had significantly better overall survival (3.00 vs. 2.03 years; p = 0.0015), squamous cell carcinoma (3.23 vs. 1.54 years; p = 0.00012) as well as those aged less than 70 (2.79 vs. 2.13 years; p = 0.011). There was no significant difference in survival between gender ( p = 0.48). Intervention from 1998 to 2008 had significantly greater survival compared to the latter 10 years (2.68 vs. 2.46 years; p = 0.031). The Cox model shows that laterality, age, histology and time period remain significant with multivariate testing. No patient survived after 16 years.

Discussion

Our updated retrospective study has built on our previous results by reinforcing the success of pneumonectomies. The incidence of pneumonectomies is likely to decrease with the deployment of nation-wide lung cancer screening in the UK due to earlier detection.
Blockchain urbanism: Evolving geographies of libertarian exit and technopolitical failure
Authors: Lynch Casey R , Muñoz-Viso Àlex
Published: December 2023

Libertarian “exit” imaginaries project new social, political, and economic structures separate from existing institutions in which “sovereign individuals” can opt-in to the governing system that fits their ideals. This paper traces libertarian exit imaginaries through a variety of territorial and technological projects. Demonstrating how these imaginaries evolve, it describes a recent proposal to build a semi-autonomous, blockchain-based smart city in Nevada. Reflecting on these projects, the paper highlights (1) their inevitable failure as they confront reality, (2) their role as spectacle, spreading libertarian ideology, and (3) their real-life impacts on distinct places and communities even when they fail or never materialize.
Characteristics of Rear-End Collisions: A Comparison between Automated Driving System-Involved Crashes and Advanced Driving Assistance System-Involved Crashes
Authors: Huang Chunxi , Wen Xiao , He Dengbo
Published: December 2023

With the increasing number of vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS) being tested on public roads and the expanding market share of vehicles equipped with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), the number of ADS- or ADAS-involved crashes increases. Thus, it is necessary to investigate the distribution of ADS- and ADAS-involved crashes and the factors leading to them. The rear-end collision has been found to dominate ADS-involved crashes. However, no research has explored the conditions when ADS-involved rear-end collisions are more likely to happen and no research has investigated ADAS-involved rear-end crashes. Based on 130 ADS-involved crashes and 84 ADAS-involved crashes extracted from a dataset collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) between July 2021 and May 2022, this study explored the crash patterns, especially rear-end crashes, of ADS- and ADAS-controlled vehicles. Results show that rear-end collisions dominate both ADS- and ADAS-involved crashes, especially ADAS-involved crashes. The type of both ADS-involved and ADAS-involved crashes was affected by the speed of the ego-vehicle relative to the posted speed limit. Further, the type of ADS-involved crash was affected by the pre-crash movement of the crash partner, while the type of ADAS-involved crash was further associated with the road type. The findings can provide insights into the design of ADAS and ADS control algorithms, the external human-machine interface design of the vehicles with ADS or ADAS, and the training program of human road users to improve traffic safety in mixed traffic.
Does a patron state's hardline posture reassure the public in an allied state?
Authors: Hata Masaki , Iida Takeshi , Izumikawa Yasuhiro , Kim Tongfi
Published: December 2023

How does a great power ally's demonstration of toughness toward a common adversary influence the sense of security among its weaker ally's citizens? The literature on the effects of standing firm against adversaries has significantly evolved in recent years, but empirical evidence is scarce, especially at the mass level. By taking advantage of the unique opportunity of the 2019 North Korea–US Hanoi summit, we examine the conditions under which a powerful alliance partner's firm and uncompromising posture toward a common adversary reassures the citizens of a junior ally. Based on alliance literature, we hypothesize that a patron's hawkish policy reassures its protégé when the protégé fears abandonment more than entrapment and that the more a citizen of the protégé fears abandonment, the more reassuring the patron's hawkish policy is to the individual. Our analysis of online surveys conducted before and after the summit using a quota sample of the Japanese electorate shows that the level of threat perception is significantly lower in the post-summit sample than in the pre-summit one, especially among the respondents who fear abandonment by the US. We thus conclude that President Trump's decision not to compromise with North Korea on its nuclear programs alleviated Japanese citizens’ concerns about US alliance commitments to Japan, improving their security perception. This study is significant in showing that a patron state's policy toward a common adversary can greatly influence the perception of its ally's citizens as well as its government.
Validation of the Trauma Bonding Scale for Adults© in Kenya
Authors: Chenneville Tiffany , Reid Joan A. , Wasilewski Serena , Adeli Scholastic
Published: December 2023

Recently validated among a sample of young adults in the United States, the Trauma Bonding Scale for Adults© is a much-needed instrument for assessing trauma bonding, which refers to the emotional attachment that often develops between perpetrators and victims of violent and exploitive crimes and is common among survivors of sex trafficking. To assess its utility with other populations, this study aimed to validate the Trauma Bonding Scale for Adults© with a sample of young adults in Kenya. An anonymous survey containing demographic items, the Trauma Bonding Scale for Adults©, and 12 items from an open-source measure of posttraumatic stress disorder was administered to 538 young adults aged 18 to 29 in Kenya using Qualtrics XM. Findings from an analysis of psychometric properties suggest that the Trauma Bonding Scale for Adults© is a valid and reliable measure of trauma bonding that may be useful in a global context.
An investigation on asymmetric flow characteristics of asymmetric twin-scroll turbine
Authors: Jin Jianjiao , Ru Qiusheng , Zhang Chenyun , Cao Tianyi
Published: December 2023

Asymmetry, as the most significant characteristic of asymmetric twin-scroll turbines, has a significant effect on the flow characteristics of asymmetric twin-scroll turbines. In this paper, the effect of asymmetry on flow parameters, efficiency, twin-scroll pressure ratio ( SPR), single admission twin-scroll flow parameters ratio ( SSMR) and twin-scroll divide wall of asymmetric twin-scroll turbines were investigated for the first time. First, several turbines with the same total critical section of twin scrolls and different asymmetries were designed, as well as several turbines with the same asymmetric twin scrolls and different heights of the divide wall. Subsequently, these asymmetric twin-scroll turbines were tested and studied on the turbine performance rig. Asymmetry had little influence on turbine flow characteristics under equal admission, but a great impact under partial and single admission. Meanwhile, SMR had a low slope linear relationship with the expansion ratio for every asymmetry turbine. Moreover, the asymmetry was approximately linear with the average single admission twin-scroll pressure ratio ( SSMR ave), which could be used to guide the early design of asymmetric twin-scroll turbines. Besides, divide wall schemes testing found that the length of divide wall had a certain effect on the SSMR ave, which is a control factor to maintain asymmetric property. Finally, the relation between the expansion ratio of small or large scroll turbines and lg(SPR) was approximately exponential function, and the exponential parameter was strongly correlated with SSMR and SSMR ave, which could be the key parameter reflecting the asymmetry.
Computational study of heat transfer and fluid flow in a solar trough collector with a ribbed surface and an MWCNT—Al2O3/water-based hybrid nanofluid
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Kumar Anil , Gupta Naveen Kumar , Alam Tabish , Raghav Gitanjali , Shaik Saboor , Saleel Chanduveetil Ahamed
Published: December 2023

The parabolic trough solar collector (PTSC) is renowned for its impressive ability to harness solar energy effectively. Nevertheless, it does suffer from a low thermal efficiency [Formula: see text], which presents an exciting opportunity for its performance enhancement using novel coolant hybrid nanofluids (NFs) and reconfigured receiver tubes. This study performs computational simulations to analyze the thermal and hydraulic performance of PTSC equipped with a V-ribbed receiver tube for MWCNT—[Formula: see text]/water hybrid. All turbulent flow simulations are performed for different values of parameters (relative rib height [Formula: see text], relative streamwise pitch ratio [Formula: see text] and relative spanwise pitch ratio [Formula: see text] of V-ribbed receiver tube with different Reynolds number [Formula: see text] (10,000–50,000). Various performance indicators (Nusselt number [Formula: see text], friction factor [Formula: see text], and performance evaluation criterion) had been investigated to assess the collector's performance. The results indicate that the highest Nu achieved of 760 with [Formula: see text]. Additionally, the maximum [Formula: see text] of 0.29 was observed at [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, the peak enhanced [Formula: see text] of 1.9 was attained with [Formula: see text], specifically at [Formula: see text] of 50,000. The findings indicate that using a V-ribbed receiver tube augments the heat transfer of the solar collector by 134.57% at Re of 50,000 with hybrid NF.
An archaeobotanical and stable isotope approach to changing agricultural practices in the NW Mediterranean region around 4000 BC
Authors: Antolín Ferran , Jacomet Stefanie , Soteras Raül , Gerling Claudia , Bernasconi Stefano M , Follmann Franziska , Hajdas Irka , Jaggi Madalina , Jesus Ana , Martínez-Grau Héctor , Oms Francesc Xavier , Röder Brigitte , Steiner Bigna L , van Willigen Samuel
Published: December 2023

It has recently been observed, that a change in the crop spectrum happened during the so-called Middle Neolithic in France at ca. 4000 BC. An agricultural system based on free-threshing cereals (naked wheat and naked barley) seems to shift to one based on glume wheats. This is a major change for traditional farmers and this paper aims to shed light on its possible causes. Here we describe the results of new investigations in a key area for the understanding of this process: the NW Mediterranean arch, where free-threshing cereals are the main cultivars since ca. 5100 BC. New data confirm that the shift towards glume wheats is also observed in some sites of the NE of the Iberian Peninsula and that among the glume wheats that spread at ca. 4000 BC we should not only consider emmer and einkorn but also Timopheevi’s wheat. Stable isotope analyses indicate no major decrease in soil fertility or alterations in local precipitation regimes. The agricultural change may be the result of a combination of the spread of damaging pests for free-threshing cereals and presumably new networks being developed with the North-eastern part of Italy and the Balkans.
A qualitative study on opportunities to improve research engagement and inclusion of Black adults with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Summerville Johari , Farahani Nikki , Yalavarthi Bhaavna , Aboul-Hassan Deena , Rajgarhia Sia , Xiao Lillian Z , Yu Christine , Clauw Daniel J , Kahlenberg Joanne M , DeJonckheere Melissa , Bergmans Rachel S
Published: December 2023

In response to racial inequities in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), we aimed to identify practical recommendations for increasing engagement and inclusion of Black adults in SLE research. We used a qualitative, interpretive description approach and recruited 30 Black adults diagnosed with SLE in Michigan to participate in semi-structured interviews. Theme development focused on what factors influenced research perceptions and how research did not meet participant needs and expectations. We developed five main themes: (1) Ethical and equitable research. Participants shared how the impacts of past and present-day racism impacted their willingness to participate in research. (2) Trusting researchers to conduct studies and translate findings to health care. Participants had concerns related to researcher intentions and expressed the importance of communicating research outcomes to participants and translating findings to health care. (3) Drug trial beneficence. When considering drug trials, several people did not consider the potential benefits worth the risk of side effects, and some said they would need to consult with their doctor before agreeing to participate. (4) Altruism. Participants explained how the desire to help others was a motivating factor for participating in research and donating biological samples. (5) Research priorities. Participants described a need for better treatments that value their overall health and well-being. Findings indicate that researchers can center the perspectives of Black people with SLE across the research life cycle—beyond a focus on adequate racial diversity among study participants.
Impact and Sustainability of a Palliative Care Education Module in Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Thompson Shelley L. , Lindgren Allison , McDermott Jaime , Barnes Stephanie G. , Tennyson Carolina D. , Granger Bradi
Published: December 2023

Background

Approximately 6.7 million American adults are living with heart failure (HF). Current therapies are geared toward preventing progression and managing symptoms, as there is no cure. Multiple studies have shown the benefit of including palliative care (PC) in patients with HF to improve symptoms and quality of life. Heart failure guidelines recommend the inclusion of PC in therapy, but referrals are often delayed. A previous pilot project demonstrated increased involvement of PC when targeted education was given to patients with HF.

Objective

Educate patients with HF on PC and examine the impact on PC consults, readmission, mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) transfers and evaluate sustainability of the intervention.

Methods

Patients (n = 124) admitted to an academic hospital with a diagnosis of HF were asked to view an educational module on PC. Patients who completed the module were placed in the intervention group (n = 39). Patients who declined were placed in the usual care group (n = 38). The number of PC consults, re-admissions, mortality, and transfers to the ICU were compared among participants and those who declined. Results were compared to previous pilot project.

Results

Eleven patients in the intervention group (IG) requested a PC consult vs one in the usual care group (UCG) ( P = .006). There was no statistically significant difference in readmissions, mortality, or ICU transfers between groups.

Conclusions

This sustainable project again demonstrated education on PC increases utilization of PC but does not statistically impact mortality, re-admissions, or transfers to higher levels of care.
Weight Variability, Weight Gain Goals, and Biopsychosocial Factors Among Pregnant Women
Authors: Shieh Carol , Ofner Susan
Published: December 2023

This study investigated the pattern of weight variability over 8 weeks and its associations with achieving weight gain goals and five biopsychosocial factors among pregnant women. We conducted a secondary analysis of 117 weeks of data from 16 pregnant women with a body mass index (BMI) ≥25. Weight variability was calculated from the difference of ending and beginning and maximum and minimum weights in a week and percent of each difference from baseline weight. Loess smoother, repeated measures model, and compound symmetric covariance matrix were used for analysis. The variability measure of maximum-minimum weight (overall mean: 2.1 ± 0.4 lbs.) was greater than the ending-beginning weight measure (overall mean: 0.7 ± 0.6 lbs.). Weight variability was negatively associated with achieving weight gain goals but not with biopsychosocial factors. Assessing weight variability is important during pregnancy so that preventive measures or lifestyle counseling can be instituted immediately to prevent excessive weight gain.