bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Surgeon variation: a south african spinal pathology treatment survey
Authors: Vorster Pamela A. , Burger Ronelle , Mann Theresa N. , Nkonki Lungiswa L. , Reuter Helmuth , Davis Johan H. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To investigate variation in treatment decisions among spine surgeons in South Africa and the association between surgeon characteristics and the treatment they select.

Methods
We surveyed 79 South African spine surgeons. We presented four vignettes (cervical spine distractive flexion injury, lumbar disc herniation, degenerative spondylolisthesis with stenosis, and insufficiency fracture) for them to assess and select treatments. We calculated the index of qualitative variation (IQV) to determine the degree of variability within each vignette. We used Fisher’s exact, and Kruskal–Wallis tests to assess the relationships between surgeons’ characteristics and their responses per vignette. We compared their responses to the recommendations of a panel of spine specialists.

Results
IQVs showed moderate to high variability for cervical spine distractive flexion injury and insufficiency fracture and slightly lower levels of variability for lumbar disc herniation and degenerative spondylolisthesis with stenosis. This confirms the heterogeneity in South African spine surgeons’ management of spinal pathologies. The surgeon characteristics associated with their treatment selection that were important were caseload, experience and training, and external funding. Also, 19% of the surgeons selected a treatment option that the Panel did not support.

Conclusion
The findings make a case for evaluating patient outcomes and costs to identify value-based care. Such research would help countries that are seeking to contract with providers on value. Greater uniformity in treatment and easily accessible outcomes reporting would provide guidance for patients. Further investment in training and participation in fellowship programs may be necessary, along with greater dissemination of information from the literature.
High body mass index and triglyceride levels at health checkups increase the risk of new-onset chronic kidney disease and worsening renal function: the TAMA MED Project-CKD
Authors: Kaneko Tomohiro , Kodani Eitaro , Fujii Hitomi , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Sasabe Hajime , Tamura Yutaka 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Background
Health checkups are important in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is not easily accompanied by subjective symptoms. CKD can be caused or aggravated by factors that have not yet been identified.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 7 483 patients who underwent specific annual health checkups at a medical institution in Tama City, did not have CKD in 2012, and continued to undergo checkups (aged 40–74 years). We examined the risk factors for new-onset CKD and 1.5-fold increase in serum creatinine levels among laboratory values from 2012 to 2020.

Results
Age, body mass index (BMI), triglyceride levels, atrial fibrillation, and medication for hypertension (HT) and diabetes mellitus were independent risk factors for proteinuria, whereas current smoking, BMI, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and medication for HT were independent risk factors for estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. SBP, triglyceride levels and medication for HT were risk factors for a 1.5-fold increase in serum creatinine levels during course of the study. The cut-off values of BMI for eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 were 22.2 (men 24.7, women 22.1) kg/m2 and fasting triglyceride levels for a 1.5-fold increase in serum creatinine level were 171 (men 247, women 170) mg/dL, respectively.

Conclusions
Health checkups provide information to prevent new-onset CKD and worsening of renal function. It is necessary to increase the rate of health checkups and visits to medical institutions after health checkups as well as to use these results for health guidance.
Optimal Approximation of Unique Continuation
Authors: Burman Erik , Nechita Mihai , Oksanen Lauri 
Published: May 2024

AbstractWe consider numerical approximations of ill-posed elliptic problems with conditional stability. The notion of optimal error estimates is defined including both convergence with respect to discretisation and perturbations in data. The rate of convergence is determined by the conditional stability of the underlying continuous problem and the polynomial order of the approximation space. A proof is given that no approximation can converge at a better rate than that given by the definition without increasing the sensitivity to perturbations, thus justifying the concept. A recently introduced class of primal-dual finite element methods with weakly consistent regularisation is recalled and the associated error estimates are shown to be optimal in the sense of this definition.
Going beyond templates: composition and evolution in nested OSTRICH
Authors: Costa Seco João , Lourenço Hugo , Parreira Joana , Ferreira Carla 
Published: May 2024

AbstractLow-code frameworks strive to simplify and speed up application development. An essential mechanism to achieve these goals is to have native support for the safe reuse and usage of parameterized coarse-grain components, providing developers with strong guardrails and a rich software-building experience. —a rich template language for the OutSystems platform—was designed to simplify the use and creation of such components. Thus, the application developer can quickly reuse and assemble sophisticated and thoroughly tested application blocks. However, without a built-in composition and evolution mechanism, templates are still hard to create and maintain. This sometimes requires the repetition of code across different templates and creates a conflict between the customizations of the instantiated application models, and the update and reapplication of a template definition. This paper presents a principled mechanism for using abstraction in the creation of templates and simultaneously supporting the evolution of templates in applications after use. First, we introduce a template composition mechanism, its typing discipline, and its instantiation algorithm for model-driven low-code development environments. We start by extending to support nested templates and allow the instantiation (hatching) of templates in the definition of other templates. Nesting promotes a significant increase in code reuse potential, leading to a safer evolution of applications. We then introduce the support for customizable template instances, which allows one to evolve templates’ code and then update a template instance without losing customizations performed in the generated code. The present definition seamlessly extends the existing OutSystems metamodel with template constructs expressed by model annotations that maintain backward compatibility with the existing language toolchain. We present the metamodel, a set of annotations to support the extensions, and the corresponding validation and instantiation algorithms. In particular, we introduce a type-based validation procedure for abstractions that ensures that using templates always produces valid models. This work also extends prior developments on Nested OSTRICH with the support for safe customizations of instantiated code. We validate Nested OSTRICH using the benchmark by identifying the degree of reusability that can be reached in the existing sample of real templates and template uses. Our prototype is an extension of the OutSystems IDE that allows the annotation of models and their use to produce new models. We also analyze which existing OutSystems sample screen templates can be improved by using and sharing nested templates .
Long-term impact of wildfire on soil physical, chemical and biological properties within a pine forest
Authors: Marfella Luigi , Mairota Paola , Marzaioli Rossana , Glanville Helen C. , Pazienza Gaetano , Rutigliano Flora A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractAnthropogenic fires pose a serious threat to many terrestrial ecosystems because they can cause loss of biodiversity and carbon stocks in the biosphere. Specifically, wildfires impacting natural conservation areas such as European Natura 2000 sites (N2K) are of particular concern. The main study objective was to evaluate the long-term effects of wildfires on the organic layer and some physical, chemical and biological properties of the underlying soil mineral layer, linked to soil quality. Here, we studied two coastal Mediterranean Aleppo pine stands within an N2K site differing for the fires’ years of occurrence, the time between fires (TBF) and the time since last fire (TSLF) throughout 24 years. Furthermore, in each stand, differences in fire frequency (FF) were considered by selecting three sites—double-fire, single-fire and control (unburnt). Our results show the absence of the O-layer in double-fire sites, indicating a loss of this organic carbon (if compared to control) pool of 204 g m−2 in R2F and 139 g m−2 in M2F. Despite this loss being offset by the Corg increase in soil mineral layer, the disappearance of O-layer may compromise the ecosystem services provided by soil. In each stand, long-term fire effects were evident at both single-fire and double-fire sites for some chemical as well as biological soil properties and depended on TSLF. Increased rates of nitrogen mineralization and nitrification were found at all burned sites, persisting up to 24 years post-fire. Soil quality indicators data highlighted the recovery handicap of the microbial community within the considered period. Since our outcomes showed wildfires enduring consequences, mainly relating to TSLF and FF, on different organic and mineral soil properties, we advocate employing prompt strategies to mitigate recurring fires.
Who is likely to be ostracized? The easy target is the Dark Triad
Authors: Xu Xiaofeng , Kwan Ho Kwong , Wei Feng , Wang Yihui 
Published: May 2024

AbstractDrawing on the target-behavior mechanism and victim precipitation theory, we investigated the effect of the Dark Triad traits (i.e., Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy) on exposure to workplace ostracism. Through experimental and field studies, we found that individuals with high levels of Dark Triad traits were at high risk of being ostracized. Self-serving cognitions mediated the relationship between the Dark Triad traits and exposure to workplace ostracism, and collectivism orientation alleviated the relationship between self-serving cognitions and exposure to workplace ostracism. Our findings extend research on the impact of personality dispositions on workplace ostracism, providing implications for theory and practice.
An Evolutionary Psychological Approach Toward BDSM Interest and Behavior
Authors: Larva Michelle A. , Rantala Markus J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBondage/discipline, Dominance/submission, and Sadism/Masochism (BDSM) have gained increased attention and discussion in recent years. This prevalence is accompanied by a shift in perceptions of BDSM, including the declassification of sadomasochism as a paraphilic disorder. Evolutionary psychology offers a unique perspective of why some individuals are interested in BDSM and why some prefer certain elements of BDSM over others (e.g., dominance versus submission). In this paper, we examine BDSM from an evolutionary standpoint, examining biopsychosocial factors that underlie the BDSM interests and practice. We articulate this perspective via an exploration of: proximate processes, such as the role of childhood experiences, sexual conditioning, and physiological factors; as well as ultimate explanations for power play and pain play dimensions of BDSM, highlighting the potential adaptive advantages of each. While BDSM may not be adaptive in itself, we examine the literature of sex differences in BDSM role preferences and argue that these preferences may stem from the extreme forms of behaviors which enhance reproductive success. In the realm of pain play, we explore the intersection of pain and pleasure from both physiological and psychological perspectives, highlighting the crucial role of psychological and play partner factors in modulating the experience of pain. Finally, we encourage future research in social sciences to utilize evolutionary frameworks to further explore the subject and help alleviate the mystification surrounding BDSM. This multifaceted exploration of BDSM provides valuable insights for clinicians, kink-identified individuals, and scholars seeking to understand the evolutionary perspectives of human sexual behavior and preferences.
SIRT1 restores mitochondrial structure and function in rats by activating SIRT3 after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Chen Manli , Liu Ji , Wu Wenwen , Guo Ting , Yuan Jinjin , Wu Zhiyun , Zheng Zhijian , Zhao Zijun , Lin Qiang , Liu Nan , Chen Hongbin 
Published: May 2024

AbstractMitochondrial dysfunction contributes to cerebral ischemia–reperfusion (CI/R) injury, which can be ameliorated by Sirtuin-3 (SIRT3). Under stress conditions, the SIRT3-promoted mitochondrial functional recovery depends on both its activity and expression. However, the approach to enhance SIRT3 activity after CI/R injury remains unelucidated. In this study, Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were intracranially injected with either adeno-associated viral Sirtuin-1 (AAV-SIRT1) or AAV-sh_SIRT1 before undergoing transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). Primary cortical neurons were cultured and transfected with lentiviral SIRT1 (LV-SIRT1) and LV-sh_SIRT1 respectively before oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R). Afterwards, rats and neurons were respectively treated with a selective SIRT3 inhibitor, 3-(1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl) pyridine (3-TYP). The expression, function, and related mechanism of SIRT1 were investigated by Western Blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence staining, etc. After CI/R injury, SIRT1 expression decreased in vivo and in vitro. The simulation and immune-analyses reported strong interaction between SIRT1 and SIRT3 in the cerebral mitochondria before and after CI/R. SIRT1 overexpression enhanced SIRT3 activity by increasing the deacetylation of SIRT3, which ameliorated CI/R-induced cerebral infarction, neuronal apoptosis, oxidative stress, neurological and motor dysfunction, and mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction, promoted mitochondrial biogenesis, and retained mitochondrial integrity and mitochondrial morphology. Meanwhile, SIRT1 overexpression alleviated OGD/R-induced neuronal death and mitochondrial bioenergetic deficits. These effects were reversed by AAV-sh_SIRT1 and the neuroprotective effects of SIRT1 were partially offset by 3-TYP. These results suggest that SIRT1 restores the structure and function of mitochondria by activating SIRT3, offering neuroprotection against CI/R injury, which signifies a potential approach for the clinical management of cerebral ischemia.
Graphical Abstract
1. SIRT1 is downregulated after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.
2. SIRT1 can increase the deacetylation of SIRT3 and enhance the activity of SIRT3 after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.
3. SIRT1 enhances the mitochondrial structure repair and functional recovery by activating SIRT3 after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats, thereby promoting neurological function.
Assessment of botanical learning through an educational intervention based on aromatic plants and their uses in the immediate environment
Authors: Gutiérrez-García Lorena , Blanco-Salas José , Sánchez-Martín Jesús , Corbacho-Cuello Isaac , Ruiz-Téllez Trinidad 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn order to achieve meaningful learning and in view of the need for education for sustainable development (ESD), pedagogical proposals based on experiential methodologies, paying attention to what is taught and with what objective, are essential. Sustainability in education implies a new vision of the term integral sustainability (IS); this should not only focus on environmental aspects of sustainability, but make the whole process of learning sustainable in itself. Against this background, this article presents a non-formal educational intervention for secondary school biology and geology students focused on aromatic plants and associated traditional knowledge (which are locally relevant to the students), in support of the botany-related contents established in the formal curriculum. To evaluate the activity, pre-test and post-test questionnaires were completed by the students. The results revealed significant improvements in students’ ratings of motivation, scientific learning, and sustainable awareness, demonstrating the effectiveness of implementing pedagogical proposals related to the immediate environment for increasing interest in learning and conservation of natural resources.
Impact of employment policies on disabled individuals in silvicultural activities
Authors: Ozel Halil Baris , Sevik Hakan , Cetin Mehmet , Varol Tugrul , Isik Berkant 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe prevalence of disability within societies necessitates empowering disabled individuals for their social and economic contributions. This study evaluates the impact of employment policies on the economy and well-being of disabled individuals in Turkey’s silvicultural sector during the COVID-19 pandemic. Focusing on physically disabled individuals engaged in silvicultural tasks from 2018 to 2021 in the Western Black Sea region it reveals an increase in their involvement despite a decrease in income, attributed to fewer workdays. The data collectively indicates that there was a minimum increase of 210% in the number of physically disabled individuals employed in silvicultural roles by private forestry companies between 2018 and 2021. The 3rd group, characterized by a 40–60% working capacity reduction, exhibited the highest employment rate, increasing from 56 individuals in 2018 to 137 in 2021. In contrast, the 2nd group (60–80% working capacity reduction) showed variable trends, reaching 11 employed individuals in 2020 before declining to 6 in 2021. Legal obligations often lead to employment in lowincome roles, hindering economic contributions. Male employment is higher, highlighting gender disparities. Education levels are generally low with recent increases in primary and secondary school graduates due to compulsory education. To create more inclusive opportunities disabled individuals could be trained for roles like planning and monitoring in forestry requiring specialized training.
The Role of E-participation, Human Capital, and Corruption-Free on Environmental Performance
Authors: Merhi Mohammad I. , Ahluwalia Punit 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThere are many concerns at the global level about environmental performance. The United Nations has created a framework for measuring national development goals that enable environmental sustainability. This paper examines the relationships between technological and social factors as enablers of environmental performance and draws from technological determinism and human agency paradigms. It fills an important gap in the literature by empirically examining the hypothesized relationships. The specific examined factors are online service (maturity and quality), IT infrastructure, e-participation, corruption-free, and human capital. Environmental performance is the dependent variable. These factors are relevant to ten of the seventeen goals that the United Nations set in their SDG framework. The hypotheses are tested and validated using secondary data collected by reputable global institutions and PLS-SEM analytical procedures. The results indicate that technology can enable environmental performance directly and indirectly through e-participation. We also found that e-participation influences corruption-free and human capital that positively impact environmental performance. This paper provides significant implications for research and practice.
Use of personas in co-designing learning experiences with teachers: An exploratory case study
Authors: Kerr Jeremy , Kelly Nick 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
This paper explores the use of personas in co-designing learning experiences for students. It reviews existing literature about the use of personas within the design process and then presents a case study of a group of teachers (N = 15) and designers collaboratively designing (co-designing) a term-long learning experience for a group of digital technologies students in a high school. The paper draws upon theory and results from the exploratory case study to suggest that there is significant value in using personas early in the design process when a group of co-designers are designing for a group who are absent—in this case, students. The paper shares a description of the co-design process and the use of personas, as well as an analysis of the personas created and the participant perceptions of the value of the activity. It outlines a three-step activity framework for using creative personas effectively in similar situations where a group of teachers-as-designers are co-designing for absent students. It proposes that personas are valuable for groups of teachers co-designing for students as a way to evoke empathy, aid in problem framing, and set up a space for creative thinking as part of an iterative design process.
COVID-19 Pandemic Experiences of Families in Which a Child/Youth Has Autism and Their Service Providers: Perspectives and Lessons Learned
Authors: Nicholas David B. , Zulla Rosslynn T. , Cielsielski Jill , Zwaigenbaum Lonnie , Conlon Olivia 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Purpose
The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on autistic children/youth and their families and on service providers are not yet well-understood. This study explored the lived experiences of families with an autistic child and service providers who support them regarding the impacts of the pandemic on service delivery and well-being.

Methods
In this qualitative study, families and service providers (e.g., early intervention staff, service providers, school personnel) supporting autistic children/youth were interviewed. Participants were recruited from a diagnostic site and two service organizations that support autistic children/youth.

Results
Thirteen parents and 18 service providers participated in either an individual or group interview. Findings indicate challenges associated with pandemic restrictions and resulting service shifts. These challenges generally imposed negative experiences on the daily lives of autistic children/youth and their families, as well as on service providers. While many were adversely affected by service delivery changes, families and service agencies/providers pivoted and managed challenges. Shifts have had varied impacts, with implications to consider in pandemic planning and post-pandemic recovery.

Conclusion
Results highlight the need for autism-focused supports, as well as technology and pandemic preparedness capacity building within health, therapeutic and educational sectors in order to better manage shifts in daily routines during emergencies such as a pandemic. Findings also offer instructive consideration in service delivery post-pandemic.