bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intramedullary spinal cord and filum tumours—long-term outcome: single institution case series
Authors: Myrseth Erling , Habiba S. , Rekand T. , Sætran H. A. , Mørk S. , Grønning M. 
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Background
Intramedullary spinal cord tumours are rare and account for about 2–4% of primary CNS tumours. Ependymomas and astrocytomas are most frequent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term neurological outcome, quality of life (QoL), survival, need for additional treatment and frequency of neuropathic pain in a patient group treated at a tertiary university hospital.

Method
Retrospective descriptive study of 52 long-term survivors with intramedullary or filum tumours consenting to participate in this study. Fifty-six operations were performed in 48 patients. Clinical and radiological follow-up period was 113 and 117 months, respectively.

Results
Good neurological outcome (ASIA score D or E, modified McCormick grade 1 or 2) was achieved in 88%. We found two negative prognostic factors in regards of severe disability which were large craniocaudal tumour size (p = 0.004) and histologic verified astrocytomas (p = 0.002). SF-36 results showed significantly lower results on all five subdomains concerning physical function, whereas scores for mental health and role emotional showed no significant differences compared to Norwegian norms.
Ten patients including all astrocytoma patients, one primitive neuroectodermal tumour and three recurrent tumours of filum terminale had adjuvant therapy. None of the patients with intramedullary ependymoma had adjuvant therapy.
Neuropathic pain was present in 54% of patients at the last follow-up.

Conclusion
This series shows that good results can be obtained with surgery for intramedullary tumours, even without perioperative neurophysiological monitoring. Multicentre studies are needed for further evaluation of negative and positive prognostic factors to further improve outcome.
The 21st century water quality challenges for managed aquifer recharge: towards a risk-based regulatory approach
Authors: Zheng Yan , Vanderzalm Joanne , Hartog Niels , Escalante Enrique Fernández , Stefan Catalin 
Published: September 2022

AbstractSustained environmental and human health protection is threatened by ~350,000 chemicals available in global markets, plus new biological entities including coronaviruses. These water-quality hazards challenge the proponents of managed aquifer recharge (MAR) who seek to ensure the integrity of groundwater. A risk-based regulatory framework accounting for groundwater quality changes, adoption in subsurface attenuation zones, and use of advanced monitoring methods is required to support confidence in the sustainability of MAR.
The smoothed number of Pareto-optimal solutions in bicriteria integer optimization
Authors: Beier René , Röglin Heiko , Rösner Clemens , Vöcking Berthold 
Published: September 2022

AbstractA well-established heuristic approach for solving bicriteria optimization problems is to enumerate the set of Pareto-optimal solutions. The heuristics following this principle are often successful in practice. Their running time, however, depends on the number of enumerated solutions, which is exponential in the worst case. We study bicriteria integer optimization problems in the model of smoothed analysis, in which inputs are subject to a small amount of random noise, and we prove an almost tight polynomial bound on the expected number of Pareto-optimal solutions. Our results give rise to tight polynomial bounds for the expected running time of the Nemhauser-Ullmann algorithm for the knapsack problem and they improve known results on the running times of heuristics for the bounded knapsack problem and the bicriteria shortest path problem.
Exploring the relationship between performance metrics and cost saving potential of defect prediction models
Authors: Tunkel Steffen , Herbold Steffen 
Published: September 2022

AbstractContext:Performance metrics are a core component of the evaluation of any machine learning model and used to compare models and estimate their usefulness. Recent work started to question the validity of many performance metrics for this purpose in the context of software defect prediction.Objective:Within this study, we explore the relationship between performance metrics and the cost saving potential of defect prediction models. We study whether performance metrics are suitable proxies to evaluate the cost saving capabilities and derive a theory for the relationship between performance metrics and cost saving potential.Methods:We measure performance metrics and cost saving potential in defect prediction experiments. We use a multinomial logit model, decision, and random forest to model the relationship between the metrics and the cost savings.Results:We could not find a stable relationship between cost savings and performance metrics. We attribute the lack of the relationship to the inability of performance metrics to account for the property that a small proportion of very large software artifacts are the main driver of the costs.fact that performance metrics are incapable of accurately considering the costs associate with individual artifacts, which is required due to the exponential distribution of artifact sizes.Conclusion:Any defect prediction study interested in finding the best prediction model, must consider cost savings directly, because no reasonable claims regarding the economic benefits of defect prediction can be made otherwise.
Brownian-Huygens Propagation: Modeling Wave Functions with Discrete Particle-Antiparticle Random Walks
Authors: Hrgovčić Hrvoje J. 
Published: September 2022

AbstractWe present a simple method of discretely modeling solutions of the classical wave and Klein-Gordon equations using variations of random walks on a graph. Consider a collection of particles executing random walks on an undirected bipartite graph embedded in $$\mathbb {R}^{D}$$

R

D

at discrete times $$\mathbb {Z}$$
Z
, and assume those walks are “heat-like”, in the sense that a (conserved) density of particles obeys the heat equation in the continuum limit. If the particles possess a binary degree of freedom (so that they may be said to be either particles or “antiparticles”, i.e., “positive” or “negative), then there exist closely related branching random walks on the same graph that are “wave-like”, in the sense that their (also conserved) net density obeys the D-dimensional classical wave equation. Such wave-like paths can be generated even on random graphs. The transformation by which the heat-like random walks become wave-like branching random walks is as follows: at every time step, any “incoming” particle arriving at any node X of the graph along some edge eX creates a particle-antiparticle pair at that node, with the stipulation that the newly created particle with the opposite sign of the incoming particle must initially step (in “Huygens” back-propagation fashion) along eX in the reverse direction, while the other two take a step (in “Brownian” fashion) along any edge of X (including possibly eX) with equal likelihood, and chosen independently. An additional degree of freedom (resulting in “bra” and “ket” particles) leads to quasi-probability densities proportional to the square of the wave functions.
Potential of high-feed milling structured dies for material flow control in hot forming
Authors: Platt T. , Baumann J. , Biermann D. 
Published: September 2022

AbstractHot forming processes of complex parts with small cavities demand high-performance tools made of hardened steels. Their surface can be tribologically modified in order to control the material flow for improving the mold filling of functional elements. Surface structuring here offers great potential for adjusting the frictional properties and thus controlling the material flow in forming processes. In this study, high-feed milling (HFM) of surface structures in hot work tool steel (HWS) components is investigated. The process performance was determined by cutting force measurements and tool life tests. The achievable surface topography was measured and evaluated in terms of structure quality and roughness parameters, and friction properties were derived based on the results. In a hot ring compression test, the influence of certain structure variants on the material flow was analyzed. The results conclude that HFM is a suitable process for structuring HWS components with constant structure quality and low tool wear. In addition, a variety of structures showed significant influence on the hot ring compression test. This indicates a relevant potential of HFM for the modification of hardened tool surfaces to improve the performance of hot forming processes and increase the manufactural quality and productivity.
Interpreting Morphologically Homogeneous (Paleo-)Populations as Ecological Species Enables Comparison of Living and Fossil Organism Groups, Exemplified by Nummulitid Foraminifera
Authors: Hohenegger Johann , Torres-Silva Ana Ivis , Eder Wolfgang 
Published: September 2022

AbstractMorphologically homogeneous groups, either living populations or fossil paleo-populations, must be regarded as ecological species, independent of their molecular genetic resemblance in living forms. Morphology is always expressed during development by structure genes initiated from a network of regulator genes acting at different times and intensities, additionally being subjected to epigenetic controls. Therefore, homogeneous populations influenced by the environment represent species better than the reproduction (biological species) or molecular-genetic approach using ancestral sequences like rDNA. Living and fossil representatives of nummulitid foraminifera were chosen to demonstrate complete reconstruction of morphology using metrical growth-invariant and growth-independent characters. Using these characters, 6 models were established to define ecological species in living and fossil species. Furthermore, a distinction between evolutionary and environmental effects in fossil forms was possible using discriminant analysis showing characters that are responsible for differentiating between evolutionary and environmental trends.
Sichtweisen von Menschen mit kognitiven Beeinträchtigungen und herausfordernden Verhaltensweisen – Schwierigkeiten und präventive Aspekte in Interaktion, Kommunikation und Beziehungsgestaltung
Authors: Büschi Eva , Moramana Nadja , Calabrese Stefania , Zambrino Natalie 
Published: September 2022

ZusammenfassungIn vorliegendem Forschungsbeitrag werden Sichtweisen von erwachsenen Menschen mit kognitiven Beeinträchtigungen präsentiert. Mithilfe von Interviews, Videoanalysen und teilnehmenden Beobachtungen wurden im Rahmen einer durch den Schweizerischen Nationalfonds (SNF) finanzierten Studie insgesamt 16 Personen mit kognitiven Beeinträchtigungen, die in der Schweiz in Einrichtungen der Behindertenhilfe leben und selbst herausfordernde Verhaltensweisen zeigen, befragt beziehungsweise beobachtet. Die Auswertung zeigt, dass die Befragten Zusammenhänge zwischen herausfordernden Verhaltensweisen und Interaktions‑, Kommunikations- und Beziehungsgestaltung eine hohe Relevanz beimessen. Eine zusammenfassende Tabelle zeigt empirisch abgeleitete Ansatzpunkte der Prävention auf. Dabei wird ersichtlich, dass auf der Ebene der Begleitpersonen Handlungsspielraum besteht, insbesondere was deren Haltung (aufmerksame Zuwendung, Bedürfnisorientierung, Vermittlung von Orientierung und Sicherheit) betrifft. Abschließend werden die wichtigsten Aspekte kurz diskutiert und einige Implikationen für die Praxis dargestellt.
Baseline Assessment of Health Research Systems in Saudi Arabia: Harnessing Efforts and Mobilizing Actions
Authors: Alfawaz Abdullah A. , Salman Khalid A. , Alotaibi Fatimah H. , Almogbel Faisal S. , Al-Jaroudi Dania , Alrowily Maily J. , Derkaoui Abdulrahman B. , Alqahtani Abdulrahman S. , Fadlallah Racha , Jamal Diana , El-Jardali Fadi , Memish Ziad A. 
Published: September 2022

AbstractMajor transformations are taking place in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to achieve the 2030 vision for the health sector. A key component in strengthening the health system is a strong research governance strategy that can support the decision-making process by providing timely and accurate evidence that reflects local context and needs. This paper sought to better understand governance structures and policies for health research systems and support clusters so that they function effectively. This paper outlines the findings of an in-depth baseline assessment of existing health research efforts, activities, and plans of eight research clusters in the KSA and identifies key gaps and strengths in health research governance and capabilities. A cross-sectional design was used to survey research clusters in KSA. A six-part survey was developed to better understand the research clusters’ health research governance and capacities. The survey was sent to all KSA clusters and was completed in a group setting during meetings. Findings clearly show strong efforts to support research governance initiatives in health clusters in KSA. While some clusters are more advanced than others, there are plenty of opportunities to share knowledge and combine efforts to help achieve the goals set out for KSA health transformation. This baseline assessment also reflects the first attempt of its kind to understand the KSA experience and provide much-needed lessons on country-wide efforts to support the health system given the trickling effect of this sector on all others, enhancing and advancing national growth.
Epidemiology and Early Bacteriology of Extremely Severe Burns from an LPG Tanker Explosion in Eastern China
Authors: Jin Ronghua , Yang Min , Weng Tingting , Shao Jiaming , Xia Sizhan , Han Chunmao , Wang Xingang 
Published: September 2022

AbstractThe incidence of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-related accidents in China has increased over the recent years. In addition, infection remains a big challenge in cases of severe burns. Therefore, the present study aimed to provide valuable information for a better control of infections in the event of such disasters. In this study, a total of 16 patients who suffered extremely severe burns after an LPG tanker explosion were included. Thereafter, bacteriological culture results were collected within a week. Of 16 patients, 13 (81.25%) were male and the average age of all patients was 60.63 years. In addition, the mean burned area was 83.03% TBSA. Additionally, a total of 553 organism cultures were conducted out of which 287 isolates (51.90%) showed positive results. Notably, 38.52% were Gram-negative bacteria, 7.59% were Gram-positive bacteria and 5.79% were fungi. Moreover, the most prevalent Gram-negative bacteria were Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (28.97%) followed by Acinetobacter baumannii (28.53%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (14.02%). On the other hand, the three most predominant Gram-positive bacteria were Enterococcus faecalis (33.33%), Staphylococcus aureus (28.89%) and Staphylococcus sciuri (17.78%). Furthermore, the most common fungi included Candida (38.24%), Fusarium (20.59%) and Aspergillus fumigatus (14.71%). With regard to the bacterial resistance patterns, carbapenem-resistant organisms included Acinetobacter baumannii (97.80%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (67.57%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (75.56%). In addition, Staphylococcus sciuri, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Staphylococcus haemolyticus were identified to be methicillin-resistant. This study revealed that there was a high incidence of infection in victims of severe burns as a result of mass burn accidents, accompanied by early fungal infection.
A Novel Model for Risk Regulations in the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Langøy Morten A. , Braut Geir Sverre 
Published: September 2022

AbstractIncreasing interest from stakeholders has brought about a new emphasis on risk regulation in the oil and gas industry. Our basis for this work is the offshore oil and gas industry, which is composed of major operators, entrepreneurs and contractors working globally, but we focus on Norwegian and US activities. The fundamental strategies, institutions, legal traditions and explanations of regulation are reviewed and, together with empirical data, a novel model with the means of identifying “effective” regulation has been developed. The model presented here incorporates three dimensions: the industry’s intentions; their resources and expertise and trust in the regulator (and vice versa: the regulator’s trust in the industry); and the space where functional respective normative rules are deemed most effective.
Suboptimal feeding practices and impaired growth among children in largely food insecure areas of north Wollo, Ethiopia
Authors: Anato Anchamo , Baye Kaleab , Stoecker Barbara J. 
Published: September 2022

Abstract
In Ethiopia, information is limited about energy and micronutrient intakes from complementary foods consumed by children in Productive Safety Net Program districts. Therefore, we assessed feeding practices and intakes of energy and selected micronutrients from complementary foods of children aged 6–23 months in a food insecure rural area of Ethiopia. Energy and micronutrient intakes were estimated from multiple-pass 24 h recall. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Only 1⋅9 % of children in the age range 6–8 months met recommended minimum dietary diversity of ≥5 food groups; this value slightly increased to 4 and 10⋅1 % in the older age groups (9–11 months and 12–23 months, respectively). Overwhelmingly, none of the children (9–11 months) did get the minimum acceptable diet (Children receiving minimum acceptable diet were 4 and 2⋅6 % in 6–8 months and 12–23 months, respectively). The overall prevalence of stunting was 34 % in younger children (6–8 months) and 51 % in older children aged 12–23 months. Median energy and selected micronutrient intakes from complementary foods were below corresponding WHO recommendations assuming average breast-milk amount and composition. The worst shortfalls were for vitamins A and C and for Ca. In contrast, median iron, protein and niacin intakes and densities were above the WHO recommendation. Caretakers and community leaders in the study setting need nutrition education on IYCF-related practices and on the importance of men's involvement in IYCF. Ensuring the accessibility and affordability of animal source foods (ASFs), fruits and vegetables, and feasible complementary foods is critical to address the quality of complementary feedings. This can be achieved through promoting nutrition-sensitive agriculture such as poultry and home gardening in this setting.
Sources and oxidation state of the Permian arc magmatic rocks of SW Jilin Province in the eastern Central Asian Orogenic Belt: evidence from Li, Hf isotopes and oxygen fugacity
Authors: Chen Chang-Jian , Zhang Shuan-Hong 
Published: September 2022

AbstractThe late Palaeozoic continental-arc magmatic rocks in the Gongzhuling area are located in the Liaoyuan Accretionary Belt. Here we present new zircon U–Pb ages, whole-rock major- and trace-element compositions, Li and zircon Hf isotopic compositions and oxygen fugacity of these rocks with an aim to constrain the lithium isotopic composition of the source region and origin of the magmas. These rocks were formed during 269–258 Ma in middle–late Permian time. The dioritic rocks were formed through mixing processes, with the mafic melts originating from a metasomatized mantle wedge and the felsic melts from the lower crust of a Neoproterozoic arc. The mantle wedge has been metasomatized by Li-rich fluids derived from subducted oceanic crust, as indicated by the δ7Li values of +0.4 ‰ to +3.5 ‰ and positive ϵHf(t) values (+0.7 to +13.1). Redox-sensitive Ce in the zircons indicates the fO2 of the magmas to be low to intermediate (FMQ−2.2 to FMQ+2.6; FMQ is the fayalite–magnetite–quartz redox buffer), precluding large-scale porphyry Cu–Mo mineralization. The middle–late Permian magmatic rocks represent the terminal magmatic record of the subduction of the Palaeo-Asian oceanic crust, meaning that the final closure of the Palaeo-Asian Ocean in the eastern Central Asian Orogenic Belt occurred at the end of the Permian Period. Recent identification of Mesoproterozoic (c. 1400 Ma) granites suggests some Palaeoproterozoic crustal fragments still exist in the Liaoyuan Accretionary Belt, but only in a small amount; therefore, it is concluded that the crustal growth of the Liaoyuan Accretionary Belt occurred mainly during the Neoproterozoic period.
Existence exists, and it is God
Authors: de Ray Christophe 
Published: September 2022

AbstractMuch of historic Christian philosophical theology has affirmed that God not only exists, but is Existence itself. Nowadays, this claim is widely rejected as unintelligible by theists and non-theists alike. I argue in contrast that if there is such a thing as Existence itself, that thing must be a maximally excellent being, which is what many philosophers call God. This is because Existence would itself need to exist, which is only possible if Existence exists in aparadigmaticway, that is, as a perfect instance of existence. My argument thus offers both a defence of the coherence of the claim that God is Existence itself, and a new way of arguing for theism.
From anticipatory strategies to reactive blame games in multi-level settings: the role of structure and politics in stability and policy change
Authors: Rodríguez R. Roberto 
Published: September 2022

AbstractStudies of multi-level blame avoidance strategies generally assume that (1) governments prefer to shift responsibility to other levels and (2) an unclear distribution of formal responsibilities complicates blame allocation to a single actor. Considering the temporal location of such strategies – in anticipation or as a reaction to adverse events – the article tests these assumptions. Drawing on the case of air quality policy in Mexico City, the article uses causal process tracing to develop the mechanism leading to an anticipatory strategy and its unfolding. If the distribution of responsibilities on connected policy instruments is clear and major political actors share power, then government levels from different parties engage in a joint anticipatory strategy to avoid crisis and keep stability. The mechanism breakdown leads to reactive behaviour and policy change. Contextual changes redistributing power can destabilise the arrangements, leading to reactive blame games, fostering policy change.
Background risk and risk-taking – evidence from the field
Authors: Kleemann Linda , Riekhof Marie-Catherine 
Published: September 2022

AbstractMost decisions involving risk are not taken in isolation. In addition to the risk from that decision, other independent, so-called ‘background’ risks, are considered. Our research adds to the growing evidence that this background risk influences risk-taking. We report results from a repeated lab-in-the-field investment task with Senegalese fishers in the presence of background risk related to their fishing income and their health. Our measure of background risk is the monthly wind condition. Without controls, we find that fishers act on average intemperately. Adding controls, we find that the impact of background risk on risk-taking—measured as the investment in the investment task—depends on the boat size of the fishers. When dividing the sample according to wealth, we find temperate behavior for the relatively poorer group and intemperate behavior that depends on boat lengths for the relatively richer group. Our results show the interrelations between background risk and context factors.