bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural equation model of the barriers to preliminary and sustained BIM adoption in a developing country
Authors: Olugboyega Oluseye , Windapo Abimbola Olukemi
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the barriers that are constituting significant obstructions to preliminary and sustained BIM adoption in the South African construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Implementation Process Theory was used to develop the theoretical model of barriers to continuous and consistent BIM adoption. This enabled the formulation of two hypotheses, the identification of two sub-constructs (barriers to preliminary BIM adoption and barriers to sustained BIM adoption), and five variables (resources, knowledge, work process, organisational and planning barriers), which were validated using structural equation modelling (SEM).

Findings

The SEM results show pieces of evidence that validate the hypotheses in the theoretical model. The path analysis confirms that the two sub-constructs and five variables are statistically significant.

Research limitations/implications

This research extends the postulations on the barriers to BIM adoption by demonstrating that organisational challenges and planning difficulties constitute barriers to sustained BIM adoption in the South African construction industry.

Practical implications

The findings of this research are useful in understanding the planning scope and organisational requirements towards continuous and consistent BIM adoption in the South African construction industry.

Originality/value

The difficulties with BIM adoption are the issues with the performance of BIM on projects and are the major reason for the non-consistent adoption of BIM on projects. Having difficulties adopting BIM on projects suggests that BIM adoption is majorly on a preliminary or trial basis in the developing countries. This research tests this theory by proposing two types of BIM adoption and their associated barriers.
Catch me if you can: effects of AR-enhanced presence on the mobile game experience
Authors: Park Jihye , Ko Dongwoo
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the present research was to examine the effects of content, spatial, temporal and social presences stimulated by augmented reality (AR) technology on game enjoyment and continuing behavioral intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 355 mobile AR game players participated in an online survey posted via the nationwide crowdsourcing web service in the US. A structural equation modeling was conducted using a maximum-likelihood estimation procedure to test the relationships among the variables.

Findings

Results of structural equation modeling revealed the mechanism through which multiple dimensions of presence on the mobile AR game generated positive effects on consumer responses and showed the effects of four dimensions of presence stimulated by the AR technology on game enjoyment, performance and behavioral intention. Content, spatial, temporal and social presences are integrated to create a sense of realness. These dimensions of presence simultaneously increased game enjoyment that influenced the perceived game performance, commitment to it and ultimately the intention to play other mobile AR games.

Originality/value

Although AR technology brings a unique experience to the game player, research on the effects of its use in mobile games on consumer responses is currently limited. The results of this study add value to the existing mobile game literature and provide practical insights for mobile game service providers on how to enhance players’ game enjoyment and continuing behavior.
Designing photovoltaic arrays for groundwater pumping for remote agriculture using synthetically generated daily rainfall and irrigation needs
Authors: Wurthmann Kurt A.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to provide a new method for precisely sizing photovoltaic (PV) arrays for standalone, direct pumping PV Water Pumping (PVWP) systems for irrigation purposes.

Design/methodology/approach

The method uses historical weather data and considers daily variability in regional temperatures and rainfall, crop evapotranspiration rates and seasonality effects, all within a nonparametric bootstrapping approach to synthetically generate daily rainfall and crop irrigation needs. These needs define the required daily supply of pumped water to achieve a user-specified level of reliability, which provides the input to an intuitive approach for PV array sizing. An economic comparison of the costs for the PVWP versus a comparably powered diesel generator system is provided.

Findings

Pumping 22.8646 m³/day of water would meet the pasture crop irrigation needs on a one-acre (4046.78 m²) tract of land in South Florida, with 99.9% reliability. Given the specified assumptions, an 8.4834 m² PV array, having a peak power of 1.1877 (kW), could provide the 1.2347 (kWh/day) of hydraulic energy needed to supply this volume over a total head of 20 meters. The PVWP system is the low-cost option when diesel prices are above $0.90/liter and total installed PV array costs are fixed at $2.00/Watt peak power or total installed PV array costs are below $1.50/Watt peak power and diesel prices are fixed at $0.65/liter.

Originality/value

Because the approach is not dependent on the shapes of the sampling distributions for regional climate factors and can be adapted to consider different types of crops, it is highly portable and applicable for precisely determining array sizes for standalone, direct pumping PVWP systems for irrigating diverse crop types in diverse regions.
Invertebrate methylomes provide insight into mechanisms of environmental tolerance and reveal methodological biases
Authors: Trigg Shelly A. , Venkataraman Yaamini R. , Gavery Mackenzie R. , Roberts Steven B. , Bhattacharya Debashish , Downey‐Wall Alan , Eirin‐Lopez Jose M. , Johnson Kevin M. , Lotterhos Katie E. , Puritz Jonathan B. , Putnam Hollie M.
Published: October 2021

There is a growing focus on the role of DNA methylation in the ability of marine invertebrates to rapidly respond to changing environmental factors and anthropogenic impacts. However, genome‐wide DNA methylation studies in nonmodel organisms are currently hampered by a limited understanding of methodological biases. Here, we compare three methods for quantifying DNA methylation at single base‐pair resolution—whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS), reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS), and methyl‐CpG binding domain bisulfite sequencing (MBDBS)—using multiple individuals from two reef‐building coral species with contrasting environmental sensitivity. All methods reveal substantially greater methylation in Montipora capitata (11.4%) than the more sensitive Pocillopora acuta (2.9%). The majority of CpG methylation in both species occurs in gene bodies and flanking regions. In both species, MBDBS has the greatest capacity for detecting CpGs in coding regions at our sequencing depth, but MBDBS may be influenced by intrasample methylation heterogeneity. RRBS yields robust information for specific loci albeit without enrichment of any particular genome feature and with significantly reduced genome coverage. Relative genome size strongly influences the number and location of CpGs detected by each method when sequencing depth is limited, illuminating nuances in cross‐species comparisons. As genome‐wide methylation differences, supported by data across bisulfite sequencing methods, may contribute to environmental sensitivity phenotypes in critical marine invertebrate taxa, these data provide a genomic resource for investigating the functional role of DNA methylation in environmental tolerance.
Changes in oral corticosteroid use in asthma treatment—A 20‐year Danish nationwide drug utilisation study
Authors: Skov Inge Raadal , Henriksen Daniel Pilsgaard , Madsen Hanne , Pottegård Anton , Davidsen Jesper Rømhild
Published: October 2021

Oral corticosteroids (OCS) are used in asthma management but can cause serious adverse effects. We aimed to investigate the usage trends in a nationwide asthma cohort in Denmark from 1999 to 2018. Using national registers, we identified young adults (18–45 years) with two or more asthma drug collections within 12 months since the age of 15 years as indicative of active asthma. OCS exposure level was stratified as high use (≥5 mg prednisolone/day/year) and low use (<5 mg/day/year). Lorenz curves were computed to illustrate potential skewness of consumption among the OCS users. We identified 318 950 individuals with a median age of 29 years (IQR 20–38 years) whereof 57% were women. The 1‐year prevalence of OCS users was stable at 4.8% (median, IQR 4.7%–4.8%), but with nearly 40% decrease in high‐users from 0.54% in 1999 to 0.33% in 2018. The median annual exposure decreased from 500 mg/year (1999) to 250 mg/year (2018). We found a substantial skewness in the distribution of OCS usage with 10% of users accounting for almost 50% of all OCS use. The prevalence of OCS users among young adults with active asthma has been relatively stable from 1999 to 2018, but with a decreasing prevalence of high‐users and annual consumption.
Challenges and Issues Confronting Sri Lanka in Museum Tourism Development
Authors: Sandaruwani Rudmi C. , Gnanapala Athula C.
Published: October 2021

Cultural tourism has emerged as a growing sector of the global tourism industry. Theme‐based museums have evolved as important partners in this burgeoning sector of the national economy. However, the statistics recorded only 29% of foreign tourists visiting museums during their visits to Sri Lanka in 2018–2019. This research identifies the prevailing challenges and issues museums face in developing museum tourism as a part of the national tourism strategy. This study has been narrowed down into the cluster of museums administered by the Department of National Museums of Sri Lanka as it is the major governmental body responsible for maintaining the national museums. The researcher conducted 18 semi‐structured interviews with administrative positions in the Department of National Museums (DNM) and Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) in order to collect qualitative data during the study period of January to July 2019. Findings revealed the key challenges and issues as limited visitor facilities, funding barriers, structural barriers, emerging technologies, location and access barriers, limited collection, and unpublished competition in diversifying museum tourism experience in Sri Lanka. Finally, the researchers summarize the paper with a set of recommendations that may be useful for museum practitioners facing similar challenges.
Business representation in an autocratic regime: Tariff policy and exchange committees in late Tsarist Russia
Authors: Chuchko Marina
Published: October 2021

Studies on the role of interest groups in the formation of public policy are generally focused on those in democratic countries. However, the emerging literature on interest groups in autocratic regimes suggests that business in such states is actively involved in policy formation. On the basis of the first dataset on the 1891 tariff reform in the Russian Empire, this study carries out an empirical examination of the role of business in policymaking in one of the most autocratic states in history. Dominance analysis is used to estimate the contribution of participants to tariff reform. The results show that while the state had an overriding influence on tariff formation, the contribution of business representatives is noteworthy. The addition of business associations to the model explaining tariff changes leads to an increase in the explained variance of the model by about seven percentage points. Additional regression analysis confirms that the success of lobbying depended on the homogeneity of the proposals presented by regional business associations.
A gene–environment interplay between omega‐3 supplementation and APOE ε4 provides insights for Alzheimer’s disease precise prevention amongst high‐genetic‐risk population
Authors: Li Lin , Xu Wei , Tan Chen‐Chen , Cao Xi‐Peng , Wei Bao‐Zhen , Dong Cheng‐Wen , Tan Lan ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2021

Background and purpose

The present study aimed to explore whether and how omega‐3 (ω‐3) supplementation could interact with genetic factors to modulate cognitive functions, amyloid pathologies, and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk.

Methods

A total of 1,670 non‐demented participants (mean age 73 years, 47% females, 41% APOE ε4 carriers) were followed up for 10 years. Hierarchical regressions, linear mixed‐effects models, and Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the interaction effects of ω‐3 supplementation with APOE ε4 and polygenic hazard scores, after adjusting for age, gender, education, cognitive diagnosis, insomnia, depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular risk score.

Results

Individuals who progress to AD during the follow‐up tend to take a shorter duration of ω‐3 at baseline than those stable, for whom the difference remained significant only amongst APOE ε4 carriers (p < 0.01). The interaction term (APOE ε4 × ω‐3) accounted for a significant amount of variance in cognition and cerebral amyloid burden. Long‐term ω‐3 use protected cognition (especially memory function) and lowered amyloid burden and AD risk only amongst APOE ε4 carriers. Mediation analysis suggested that amyloid pathologies, brain reserve capacities, and brain metabolism mediated the relationships of ω‐3 use with memory and global cognition for APOE ε4 (+) carriers. Similar interaction and mediation effects were also indicated amongst high‐risk subjects defined by polygenic hazard scores.

Conclusions

Long‐term ω‐3 intake may have a role in AD prevention in genetically at‐risk populations.
Clinical features and outcome of patients with autoimmune cerebellar ataxia evaluated with the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia
Authors: Damato Valentina , Papi Claudia , Spagni Gregorio , Evoli Amelia , Silvestri Gabriella , Masi Gianvito , Sabatelli Eleonora , Campetella Lucia , McKeon Andrew , Andreetta Francesca , Riso Vittorio , Monte Gabriele , Luigetti Marco , Primiano Guido , Calabresi Paolo , Iorio Raffaele
Published: October 2021

Background and purpose

This study was undertaken to assess the long‐term outcome of patients with paraneoplastic and non paraneoplastic autoimmune cerebellar ataxia (ACA) using the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA).

Methods

Patients with subacute cerebellar ataxia admitted to our institution between September 2012 and April 2020 were prospectively recruited. Serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid was tested for neural autoantibodies by indirect immunofluorescence on mouse brain, cell‐based assays, and radioimmunoassay. SARA and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score were employed to assess patients’ outcome.

Results

Fifty‐five patients were recruited, of whom 23 (42%) met the criteria for cerebellar ataxia of autoimmune etiology. Neural autoantibodies were detected in 22 of 23 patients (Yo–immunoglobulin G [IgG], n = 6; glutamic acid decarboxylase 65–IgG, n = 3; metabotropic glutamate receptor 1–IgG, n = 2; voltage‐gated calcium channel P/Q type–IgG, n = 2; Hu‐IgG, n = 1; glial fibrillary acidic protein–IgG, n = 1; IgG‐binding unclassified antigens, n = 7). Thirteen patients were diagnosed with paraneoplastic cerebellar syndrome (PCS) and 10 with idiopathic ACA. All patients received immunotherapy. Median SARA score was higher in the PCS group at all time points (p = 0.0002), while it decreased significantly within the ACA group (p = 0.049) after immunotherapy. Patients with good outcome (mRS ≤ 2) had less neurological disability (SARA < 15) at disease nadir (p = 0.039) and presented less frequently with paraneoplastic neurological syndrome (p = 0.0028). The univariate linear regression model revealed a good correlation between mRS and SARA score both at disease onset (p < 0.0001) and at last follow‐up (p < 0.0001). SARA score < 11 identified patients with good outcome.

Conclusions

Patients with idiopathic ACA significantly improved after immunotherapy. SARA score accurately reflects patients’ clinical status and may be a suitable outcome measure for patients with ACA.
Global distribution of the South American peacock bassesCichlaspp. follows human interference
Authors: Franco Ana Clara Sampaio , Petry Ana Cristina , Tavares Marcela Rosa , de Fátima Ramos Guimarães Taís , dos Santos Luciano Neves
Published: October 2021

South American peacock basses (genusCichla) have been widely introduced within and outside the Neotropical region due to their importance to fisheries, despite threats to the native fish fauna. We performed a literature review on the worldwide distribution of validCichlaspecies by focusing on records of species richness and populations in their native and non‐native ranges. We tested for an effect of area, the number of large dams, human population density and gross domestic product as drivers of the distribution of peacock basses across the Freshwater Ecoregions of the World (FEOWs). A total of 544 studies led to 1,289 records of nine species. Their distributions within their native range (19 native FEOWs) were narrower than their distributions in their non‐native range (23 non‐native FEOWs), which encompass tropical and subtropical ecoregions of the Americas, Africa, Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands. Several of these FEOWs harboured more than one species, usuallyC. ocellarisandC. piquiti. Ecoregion areas were positively associated with species richness and population records in native FEOWs, whereas the number of reservoirs was positively related to the records of non‐native populations. These patterns provide further evidence of the role played by reservoirs as the main pathway for the introduction of peacock basses; thus, special attention should be given to the continuous monitoring of the spread of these invaders across watersheds in invaded ecoregions. Considering their broad distribution and the potential for peacock basses to thrive in human‐modified systems, severe damage to the native fish fauna is predicted.
The efficacy of Lactobacillus acidophilus and rhamnosus in the reduction of bacterial load of Helicobacter pylori and modification of gut microbiota—a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized trial
Authors: Chen Mei‐Jyh , Chen Chieh‐Chang , Huang Yu‐Chun , Tseng Chieh‐Chih , Hsu Jing‐Ting , Lin Yi‐Fen , Fang Yu‐Jen , Wu Ming‐Shiang , Liou Jyh‐Ming ,   for the Taiwan Gastrointestinal Disease, Helicobacter Consortium
Published: October 2021

Background

Probiotics may alter the gut microbiota and may reduce antibiotic‐related dysbiosis after H. pylori eradication. However, whether probiotics are effective in reducing the bacterial load of H. pylori and modifying the gut microbiota remains unknown. We aimed to assess the efficacy of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus in reducing the bacterial load of H. pylori and modifying the gut microbiota.

Materials and methods

In this double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial, we recruited 40 adult subjects with moderate to high bacterial loads of H. pylori, defined as a mean delta over baseline (DOB) value of the 13C‐urea breath test (13C‐UBT) of 10 or greater every 4 days 6 times. Eligible subjects were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus or placebo twice daily for 4 weeks. 13C‐UBT was measured weekly from the beginning of treatment to 2 weeks after treatment. Amplification of the V3 and V4 hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA was performed for fecal microbiota.

Results

A total of 40 subjects were randomized to receive probiotics or placebo. The DOB value was significantly lower in the probiotic group than in the placebo group after 4 weeks of treatment (26.0 vs. 18.5, p = .045). The DOB value was significantly reduced compared to that at baseline in the probiotic group (18.5 vs. 26.7, p = .001) but not in the placebo group (26.0 vs. 25.0, p = .648). However, the eradication rate for H. pylori was 0% in both groups. There was no significant difference in the DOB values between the two groups 1 and 2 weeks after discontinuation of the probiotics. There were also no significant changes observed in the α‐diversity and β‐diversity at week 4 compared to baseline in the probiotic group (p = .77 and 0.91) and the placebo group (p = .26 and 0.67).

Conclusions

Although the use of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus may reduce the bacterial load of H. pylori, there were no significant changes in the composition of gut microbiota. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02725138.
Proveedores surcoreanos de primer nivel en las cadenas mundiales de valor de la confección. Upgrading e implicaciones laborales en el contexto asiático
Authors: KWON Hyunji , CHUNG Sun Wook , LEE Joonkoo
Published: October 2021

Se analiza la evolución histórica de los proveedores de prendas de vestir en la República de Corea, en particular el auge de proveedores de primer nivel (PPN), a partir de los casos de los dos principales: cómo ampliaron su presencia internacional, especialmente en Asia, hasta convertirse en grandes multinacionales, cómo evolucionaron tras la crisis financiera internacional de 2008, y cómo, tras su rápido crecimiento hasta crear un entorno empresarial complejo, han ocupado una posición estratégica en las reconfiguradas cadenas mundiales de valor de la confección. También se examinan sus respuestas a los problemas laborales, considerando lo que su upgrading implica para los trabajadores.
Producing industrial pigs in southwestern China: The rise of contract farming as a coevolutionary process
Authors: Zhang Qian Forrest , Zeng Hongping
Published: October 2021

The literature on contract farming (CF) has to date focused on how outside capital uses CF to vertically integrate non‐capitalist producers into agro‐industrial value chains. We argue that in places where multiple dynamics of capitalist growth co‐exist, CF relationships can also emerge between different types of capitalist producers that are already in capitalist production using other organizational forms. In this situation, the well‐studied drivers that fuel the spread of CF become less consequential; the emergence of CF is instead more contingent on the complex interactions between producers and the specific conditions and events in the local environment. We conceptualize the emergence of this type of CF as a coevolutionary process and develop an analytical toolkit from this perspective to study the rise of CF in industrial pig farming in a Chinese county. Our analysis traces the evolution of agro‐industrialization over a decade (2006–2016) and shows the emergence of CF as a coevolutionary outcome shaped by the unique biography of the contract producers, the “historical accident” of a market downturn, and the reciprocal responses between contract producers and agribusinesses.
The anti‐wrinkles properties of sodium acetylated hyaluronate
Authors: Meunier Marie , Scandolera Amandine , Chapuis Emilie , Lapierre Laura , Sandré Jérôme , Brunner Gerhard , Lovchik Martin , Reynaud Romain
Published: October 2021

Background

Intrinsic aging promotes wrinkles formation by an imbalance between matrix synthesis/degradation in favor of degradation. This is accelerated by the exposome leading to overproduction of protease and fewer remodeling.

Objective

Protecting the integrity of extracellular matrix appears as the most efficient anti‐aging solution. We developed a grafted HA specifically designed to get anti‐aging property due to a specific molecular weight and acetylation degree.

Methods

A transcriptomic analysis was performed on fibroblasts, followed by a measurement of MMP secretion and subsequent effect on collagen degradation. MMP expression in skin explants concerned by chronobiological and extrinsic aging was analyzed by immunostaining. A clinical study was conducted on volunteers presenting wrinkles on face to evaluate flash reduction of wrinkles after 6 h of application by profilometry and anti‐aging efficacy after 2 months by VISIA® CR2.3.

Results

Transcriptomic analysis evidenced an inhibition of MMP gene expression with acetylated HA, confirmed by an inhibition of MMPs release by fibroblasts, and a protection of type I collagen against degradation. We confirmed the reduction of MMPs in mature skin and in skin explants exposed to UV and urban dust. We demonstrated during clinical studies the flash reduction effect of acetylated HA on crow's feet wrinkles and a filling of nasogenian areas 6 h after application, and a wrinkles number reduction on nasogenian area up to 2 months of application.

Conclusion

We developed a new grafted HA owing protective properties against ECM degradation induced by chronobiological and extrinsic aging, leading to a significant and efficient anti‐wrinkles effect.
Predıctıve value of pregnancy of follıcular fluıd fetuın‐A and ‐B levels ın infertıle women after intra‐cytoplasmic sperm injection
Authors: Yurtcu Nazan , Oral Serkan , Celik Sebahattin , Calıskan Suleyman Tumer , Alagoz Murat , Dahan Michael H.
Published: October 2021

Aim

We aimed to investigate the value of follicular fluid fetuins‐A and ‐B to predict successful IVF and pregnancy outcomes in infertile women with poor, normal, and high ovarian reserve.

Methods

The follicular fluid of 96 infertile women who underwent intra‐cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) procedure was analyzed. Fetuins‐A and ‐B levels were examined and compared in those who could achieve pregnancy and those who could not. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyzes were used to determine cut‐off and statistically significant associations for fetuins‐A and ‐B.

Results

Follicular fluid fetuin‐A levels were higher in cases with weak ovarian reserve (OR) (p < 0.05) and higher in patients who did not achieve clinical pregnancy (p < 0.05). Conversely, the follicular fluid fetuin‐B levels were lower in cases with poor OR (p < 0.05) and were lower in patients who did not achieve a clinical pregnancy (p < 0.05). A follicular fluid fetuin‐A concentration ≤ 19.12 ng/mL had a sensitivity and specificity of 94.74% and 93.1%, respectively, at predicting clinical pregnancy. While the follicular fluid fetuin‐B concentration >24.7 ng/mL had sensitivity and specificity of 71.1% and 51.7%, respectively, for clinical pregnancy prediction.

Conclusion

Overall, high levels of follicular fluid fetuin‐A may be independently associated with unsuccessful IVF irrespective of OR grouping. A low level of follicular fetuin‐B was also associated with failed IVF. The sensitivity and specificity were found to be higher for fetuin‐A in predicting clinical pregnancy. Therefore, the follicular fluid fetuin‐A may be more predictive for successful IVF and clinical pregnancy outcomes than follicular fluid fetuin‐B.
The taboo against contact with minorities: A folk‐anthropology approach to prejudices
Authors: Pérez Juan A.
Published: October 2021

In contrast to the classic theory of contact among groups to combat prejudice against the outgroup (Allport, 1954), we propose the theory of the taboo of contact according to which prejudice against minorities does not arise due to lack of contact, but precisely in order to avoid contact. We summarise a series of themata whereby in the West the majority's fears of losing the purity of their religious, ethnic, or racial identity have been ontologised in four minorities (Jews, gypsies, natives, and black people). The hypothesis is that the greater the proximity to – or danger of mixing with – those vilified minorities, the greater the taboo of contact will be. We conclude that the prejudice against minorities who are victims of current ethnic and racial discrimination is an hysteresis effect of folk‐anthropology themata.
The influence of environmental parameters on the phytoplankton community of two tropical reservoirs
Authors: Chappell Jessica , Whitmire Stefanie , Sotomayor‐Ramírez David , Martínez Gustavo
Published: October 2021

Previous studies have indicated certain environmental variables such as rainfall, nutrient concentrations and mixing events can be strong drivers of the phytoplankton community structure in reservoirs. Shifts in the phytoplankton community composition of Puerto Rican reservoirs, however, are not well understood. The present study identified the spatial and temporal changes in the phytoplankton community structure of two reservoirs in Puerto Rica, and which environmental parameters determined the structure. Whether or not the main environmental variables varied on the basis of the initial trophic status of the reservoirs was also explored. Two Puerto Rican reservoirs, one classified as mesotrophic and the other as eutrophic, were sampled on three sampling dates, with the reservoirs into three zones (dam; transition; riverine). Physical parameters were recorded at each sampling site, nutrient concentrations were measured, and the phytoplankton community biomass and diversity were determined. A canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) was run for each reservoir to explore which variables determined the phytoplankton community composition. Temperature, pH and total phosphorus concentration were the main drivers of the phytoplankton community composition for the mesotrophic reservoir, while specific conductance, pH, total phosphorus and nitrate were the main explanatory variables. Although the driving variables changed between the reservoirs, the temporal shifts observed in the phytoplankton community structure were consistent for both reservoirs regardless of their trophic status. The findings of the present study suggest that, although shifts in the phytoplankton community structure are similar in reservoirs with differing initial trophic status, the environmental variables driving community composition may nevertheless vary. Accordingly, tropical reservoirs managers should consider a reservoir's initial trophic status when evaluating what environmental parameters may lead to changes in its phytoplankton community structure. The present study represents a first step at examining the variables driving phytoplankton community structure in Puerto Rican reservoirs.
Capacidad de investigación en obesidad infantil en Latinoamérica y en las poblaciones latinas de Estados Unidos: estado de la investigación, problemas, oportunidades y líneas de trabajo para el futuro
Authors: Salvo Deborah , Parra Diana C. , Jáuregui Alejandra , Resendiz Eugen , Garcia‐Olvera Armando , Velazquez Daniel , Aguilar‐Farias Nicolas , Colón‐Ramos Uriyoán , Hino Adriano A. , (Bill) Kohl Harold W. , Pratt Michael , Varela Andrea Ramirez , Ramirez‐Zea Manuel , Rivera Juan A.
Published: October 2021

La obesidad infantil es un problema grave en Latinoamérica y entre la población latina de EE. UU. Para ser eficaces, las políticas de salud pública tienen que estar guiadas por evidencias contextuales pertinentes, lo cual exige una capacidad de investigación sostenida a través del tiempo. Los objetivos de este estudio son determinar la productividad de la investigación enfocada en las poblaciones latinas en Latinoamérica y Estados Unidos, y examinar los dominios de la capacidad de investigación (infraestructuras, programas de formación, mentoría, financiamiento y redes de contactos). Realizamos una revisión exploratoria de artículos indexados relacionados con la obesidad infantil publicados entre junio de 2015 y diciembre de 2019. Recabamos información sobre las percepciones de los investigadores latinoamericanos respecto a la capacidad de investigación en obesidad infantil a través de una encuesta en línea. Identificamos 612 artículos relacionados con la obesidad infantil (505 de Latinoamérica, 124 de EE. UU. y 17 de colaboraciones entre EE. UU. y Latinoamérica). Brasil, México, Chile, Colombia y Estados Unidos son los países con más publicaciones. Encontramos aproximadamente el mismo número de artículos sobre obesidad, nutrición y actividad física; sin embargo, observamos que la capacidad de investigación sobre actividad física está rezagada en otros dominios (formación en investigación, financiamiento y oportunidades para establecer contactos). Otras áreas de investigación complementarias, como el comportamiento sedentario, la ciencia de sistemas y los estudios de políticas, son poco frecuentes en Latinoamérica, pero más habituales en Estados Unidos, mientras que la investigación sobre el sueño es incipiente en ambas regiones. Para cumplir la promesa de crear un programa eficaz de colaboración transfronteriza para la prevención de la obesidad infantil será necesario invertir en todos los dominios de la capacidad de investigación y en todos los temas pertinentes.
La migración como determinante de la obesidad infantil en Estados Unidos y Latinoamérica
Authors: Vilar‐Compte Mireya , Bustamante Arturo V. , López‐Olmedo Nancy , Gaitán‐Rossi Pablo , Torres Jaqueline , Peterson Karen E. , Teruel Graciela , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael
Published: October 2021

La migración internacional tiene consecuencias económicas y en la salud. El proceso de aculturación en el país de acogida puede estar relacionado con la obesidad infantil. Utilizamos el marco conceptual del balance energético comunitario (CEB, por sus siglas en inglés) para analizar la relación entre migración y obesidad infantil en los hogares mexicanos con migrantes internacionales. Utilizando datos longitudinales de la Encuesta Nacional de Niveles de Vida de los Hogares de México (ENNViH), examinamos cómo influyen las redes de migrantes sobre la obesidad infantil en las comunidades de origen. También revisamos programas de salud binacionales que podrían ser eficaces para abordar la obesidad infantil en los hogares de migrantes procedentes de México. Los niños que forman parte de las redes de migrantes presentan un mayor riesgo de ‐desarrollar sobrepeso y obesidad, lo cual sugiere una relación significativa entre la obesidad infantil y la migración internacional en los hogares mexicanos. Basándonos en los criterios de búsqueda que habíamos definido, realizamos un análisis de programas de extensión comunitaria en salud cuyos resultados indican que las Ventanillas de Salud (VDS) son una opción prometedora para prevenir la obesidad infantil en un entorno de confianza y culturalmente sensible. El marco conceptual CEB es útil para comprender cómo contribuye la migración al riesgo de sobrepeso y obesidad infantil en los hogares de los migrantes. Las VDS son una estrategia viable y replicable con un gran potencial para abordar la obesidad infantil entre las familias migrantes y que toma en cuenta los determinantes dinámicos y binacionales de la obesidad infantil.
Exposición a químicos disruptores endócrinos obesogénicos y obesidad en niños y jóvenes de origen latino o hispano en Estados Unidos y Latinoamérica: una perspectiva del curso de la vida
Authors: Perng Wei , Cantoral Alejandra , Soria‐Contreras Diana C. , Betanzos‐Robledo Larissa , Kordas Katarzyna , Liu Yun , Mora Ana M. , Corvalan Camila , Pereira Anita , Cardoso Marly Augusto , Chavarro Jorge E. , Breton Carrie V. , Meeker John D. , Harley Kim G. , Eskenazi Brenda , Peterson Karen E. , Tellez‐Rojo Martha Maria
Published: October 2021

En el 2019, en seguimiento a un taller dirigido por el Global Health Studies del Fogarty International Center sobre el tema de la prevención de la obesidad infantil y las sinergias de investigación que surgen a través de las colaboraciones transfronterizas, convocamos a un grupo de expertos de Estados Unidos y Latinoamérica para que realizaran una revisión narrativa de la literatura epidemiológica sobre el papel obesogénico de los químicos disruptores endócrinos (EDC, por sus siglas en inglés) en la etiología de la obesidad infantil entre la juventud latina de Estados Unidos y Latinoamérica. Además de resumir y sintetizar los resultados de las investigaciones sobre este tema publicados en la última década, contextualizamos los hallazgos dentro de un marco bioconductual de curso de vida para identificar relaciones exposición‐desenlace impulsadas por resultados de investigación, identificar inconsistencias y deficiencias de la literatura actual, y discutir el papel de las regulaciones políticas, todo con el objetivo de identificar posibles vías para la prevención temprana de la obesidad en las poblaciones hispanas/latinas.
“That's Why I Do What I Do”: Southern Black feminism in philosophy
Authors: Stewart Lindsey
Published: October 2021

Alice Walker claims that the “advantageous heritage” of Black southern life is replete with intellectual meat for thinking and writing. How might the insights found in this “advantageous heritage” enrich our discussions of Black feminism in philosophy? Taking stock of this “advantageous heritage” is no mean feat in the discipline of philosophy as it sits at the intersection of two subfields that are already marginalized: Black feminist philosophy and southern philosophy. To help situate southern Black feminist philosophy, I draw upon Kristie Dotson's model of “inheritance maps,” or an “attempt to take stock of what one has been given in a particular project and what one inherits as work yet to do.” Focusing primarily on the theme of refusal, I develop an “inheritance map” that lays out aspects of southern Black feminism that I have inherited from Angela Davis'sBlues Legacies and Black Feminism.
An explanationist account of genealogical defeat
Authors: Korman Daniel Z. , Locke Dustin
Published: October 2021

Sometimes, learning about the origins of a belief can make it irrational to continue to hold that belief—a phenomenon we call ‘genealogical defeat’. According to explanationist accounts, genealogical defeat occurs when one learns that there is no appropriate explanatory connection between one's belief and the truth. Flatfooted versions of explanationism have been widely and rightly rejected on the grounds that they would disallow beliefs about the future and other inductively‐formed beliefs. After motivating the need for some explanationist account, we raise some problems for recent versions of explanationism. Learning from their failures, we then produce and defend a more resilient explanationism.
The politics of referendum rules: Evidence from New Zealand (1893–2016)
Authors: McKay Spencer
Published: October 2021

Despite widespread concerns about the manipulation of government‐initiated referendums, there has been little consideration of the long‐term effects of these institutional changes. Using a historical institutionalist framework, I examine two long‐standing processes of gradual institutional change in New Zealand: the serial referendum and the two‐stage referendum. Cabinet documents, parliamentary speeches, and previous analyses reveal that governments change referendums in unique ways depending on the political circumstances, including precedents set by earlier referendums. Once set in motion, these processes of gradual institutional change can fundamentally transform the functional qualities of the referendum over time. This article suggests that avoiding conceptions of referendums as discrete events can help clarify the challenges and potentials to democratizing popular votes.

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Family disadvantage, gender, and the returns to genetic human capital*
Authors: Ronda Victor , Agerbo Esben , Bleses Dorthe , Mortensen Preben Bo , Børglum Anders , Mors Ole , Rosholm Michael , Hougaard David M. , Nordentoft Merete , Werge Thomas
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we investigate the context‐dependence of genetic influences on human capital formation in Denmark. We show that the returns to genetic endowments are smaller for individuals who have experienced childhood disadvantage. We discuss how we can rule out omitted variables or measurement error bias as explanations, because we observe the attenuation effect of childhood disadvantage in both between‐family and within‐family analyses. Our results highlight an important mechanism driving the persistence of disadvantage across generations. We show that children who experience childhood disadvantage are not able to fully realize their educational potential, even in the context of the generous Danish welfare state.
Development of retinal bullae in dogs with progressive retinal atrophy
Authors: Marinho Luis Felipe L. P. , Occelli Laurence M. , Bortolini Mariza , Sun Kelian , Winkler Paige A. , Montiani‐Ferreira Fabiano , Petersen‐Jones Simon M.
Published: October 2021

Objective

To report the development of focal bullous retinal detachments (bullae) in dogs with different forms of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

Procedures

Dogs with three distinct forms of PRA (PRA‐affected Whippets, German Spitzes and CNGB1‐mutant Papillon crosses) were examined by indirect ophthalmoscopy and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT). Retinal bullae were monitored over time. One CNGB1‐mutant dog was treated with gene augmentation therapy. The canine BEST1 gene coding region and flanking intronic sequence was sequenced in at least one affected dog of each breed.

Results

Multiple focal bullous retinal detachments (bullae) were identified in PRA‐affected dogs of all three types. They developed in 4 of 5 PRA‐affected Whippets, 3 of 8 PRA‐affected Germans Spitzes and 15 of 20 CNGB1‐mutant dogs. The bullae appeared prior to marked retinal degeneration and became less apparent as retinal degeneration progressed. Bullae were not seen in any heterozygous animals of any of the types of PRA. Screening of the coding region and flanking intronic regions of the canine BEST1 gene failed to reveal any associated pathogenic variants. Retinal gene augmentation therapy in one of the CNGB1‐mutant dogs appeared to prevent formation of bullae.

Conclusions

Retinal bullae were identified in dogs with three distinct forms of progressive retinal atrophy. The lesions develop prior to retinal thinning. This clinical change should be monitored for in dogs with PRA.
WIRE-MESH CAPACITANCE TOMOGRAPHY FOR TREATMENT PLANNING SYSTEM OF ELECTRO-CAPACITIVE CANCER THERAPY
Authors: Yanti Anis Nisma , Baidillah Marlin Ramadhan , Triwikantoro Triwikantoro , Endarko Endarko , Taruno Warsito Purwo
Published: October 2021

The wire-mesh capacitance tomography (WMCT) has been applied to visualize 2D of the distribution of electric field intensity in the treatment planning system (TPS) of electro-capacitive cancer therapy (ECCT) using human head model. WMCT is proposed in this study to estimate accurately the distribution of electric field intensity which is the main optimum factors of ECCT in order to compensate the inaccuracy of TPS ECCT simulation. The experimental and simulation studies were conducted with wire-mesh sensor consisted of 8×8 wire matrix of copper in human head model using two type of helmet ECCT. The result of electric field value at the intersection wire-mesh have been compared between experimental studies and simulation studies. The electric field average value resulted from ECCT helmet-1 is higher than ECCT helmet-2. The average electric field generated by the ECCT helmet-1 is 1585.72 V/m in an air medium, 97.43 V/m in grey matter and 80.58 V/m in the cancer. While the average electric field generated by the ECCT helmet-2 is 1413.28 V/m in an air medium, 64.20 V/m in grey matter and 52.65 V/m in the cancer. ECCT helmet-1 and helmet-2 result the different of electric field distribution pattern. ECCT helmet-1 is more optimal for used to patient has cancer position in the right and bottom, while ECCT helmet-2 is more optimal for used to patient has cancer position in the top and bottom.
TERENGGANU SOIL SERIES TEXTURAL CLASSIFICATION AND ITS IMPLICATION ON WATER CONSERVATION
Authors: Eng Giap Sunny Goh , - Rudiyanto , Jasni Zakiyyah , Ahmad Mohammad Fadhli
Published: October 2021

The updated Terengganu soil series has been made known to the public in 2018 by the Department of Agriculture, Malaysia. One of the most important physical aspects not quantify is the parameter relating to soil’s ability to contain water and allow water infiltration. This information is necessary to help farmers to know the soil suitability characteristics. In the current study, we retrieve the soil particle size of the soil series for further investigation. A pedotransfer function was used to estimate the soil water retention. The properties were then used to estimate the field capacity (FC), permanent wilting point (PWP), and the plant available water (PAW). In this study, we found twelve soil series in Terengganu state. The soil series were categorized into clay, sand, loamy sand, silty clay loam, and clay loam. Batu Hitam, Tasik, Lubok Kiat, Kampong Pusu, Tok Yong, Jerangau, and Tersat Series were found as clay soil. Jambu and Rhu Tapai Series as sand soil. Rudua, Gondang, and Kuala Brang Series corresponded to clay loam, silty clay loam, and  loamy sand. Among the soil series, Gondang Series appeared to be the most preferred soil for plantation due to its ability to give the highest plant available water, a lower water infiltration duration than clay, and it required lesser water for irrigation than the clay soil.
Saiz Organisasi Berperanan Sebagai Moderator Antara Amalan Piawaian Halal Dan Prestasi Organisasi (Size Of Organisation as A Moderating Factor in The Practice of Halal Standard and Performances)
Authors: Md Nawi Nuruh Hudani , Megat Ahmad Puteri Hayati , Ibrahim Habibie , Othman Baharudin
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to examine whether organizational size plays a role as a moderator of the relationship between    halal standards practices and organizational performance. The study was also conducted to look at organizational performance differences for multinationals and medium-sized enterprises among halal food entrepreneurs in Malaysia. A total of 241 organizations through the Internal Halal Committee for the multinational (n = 69) and medium-sized enterprises (n = 172) in Malaysia were involved as respondents in the cross-sectional survey method using selected survey tools. Reliability and validity of the questionnaire were performed and cronbach's alpha values were within the generally accepted range (0.87 to 0.94). The data were analyzed using IBM Statistical Package For Social Science (SPSS) software version 21.0 The study findings show that i) organizational size acts as a moderator between the relationship between halal standard practices for halal operations and organizational performance; ii) significant differences in organizational performance for multinationals and medium-sized enterprises. Studies have found that organizational performance is influenced by a chain that interacts with each other starting from input, which then translates into process and ultimately results that are also supported by internal control of the organization. Indeed, the aspect of the practice of halal standards should be given attention by all parties in making Malaysia a halal hub that remains international. At the same time, further studies on halal food should also take into account the scope, methodology and respondents of the research involved in developing knowledge in this area.