bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the Multidimensional Workaholism Scale in the Netherlands
Authors: Gürbüz Sait , van Woerkom Marianne , Kooij Dorien T. A. M. , Brouwers Evelien P. M.
Published: September 2023

Although extant research shows detrimental consequences of workaholism, well‐known workaholism scales have been commented on for the lack of construct clarity and validity. The Multidimensional Workaholism Scale (MWS), a new measure developed in the United States, offers both conceptual and psychometric advantages over previous workaholism scales, yet it has not been fully validated in different countries. This study aimed to adapt the MWS to a Northern European context (i.e., the Netherlands) and examine its factorial, convergent, discriminant, and incremental validity. To evaluate the psychometric properties and validity of the Dutch version of MWS, a sample of 366 Dutch employees was surveyed. The analyses showed that the subdimensions of the Dutch MWS had internal consistency and convergent validity with obsessive passion, workload, and the Dutch Work Addiction Scale. Moreover, the Dutch MWS showed good discriminant validity and modest incremental validity. Researchers in Dutch‐speaking nations can use the Dutch version to learn more about workaholism.
Reactions of applicants with disabilities to technology‐enabled recruitment and selection: A research agenda
Authors: Fisher Sandra L. , Connelly Catherine E. , Bonaccio Silvia
Published: September 2023

Technology‐enabled recruitment and selection technologies, such as chatbots, assessment games, and asynchronous video interviews, are becoming more widely used. However, their impact on people with disabilities is frequently ignored; this has potentially significant implications for the perceived fairness of hiring decisions. We advance eight theoretical propositions on the positive and negative implications of technology‐enabled recruitment and selection technologies for applicant reactions of people with disabilities. Our propositions are based on three key design features of these technologies: separation in time and space, automated administration, and automated evaluation. We provide recommendations for future research and discuss practical implications for the use of advanced technology in recruitment and selection.
Myosteatosis as a novel predictor of new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation
Authors: Wakamiya Takahito , Fujimoto Takuya , Endo Takahito , Nishioka Shun , Yokoyama Naoki , Yamashita Shimpei , Kikkawa Kazuro , Hyodo Yoji , Ishimura Takeshi , Kohjimoto Yasuo , Hara Isao , Fujisawa Masato
Published: September 2023

Objectives

We evaluate the effect of myosteatosis on new‐onset diabetes mellitus after kidney transplantation.

Methods

Consecutive patients who had renal transplant between 2006 and 2021 were reviewed, and 219 patients were finally included. Psoas muscle index was used to evaluate sarcopenia and average total psoas density (calculated by computed tomography before surgery) for myosteatosis. We used Cox proportional regression analyses in investigation of whether skeletal muscle depletion before surgery inclusive of sarcopenia and myosteatosis is a new additional predictor of new‐onset diabetes mellitus.

Results

Median recipient age and body mass index were 45 years and 21.1 kg/m2, respectively, and 123 patients (56%) were male. Preoperative impaired glucose tolerance was present in 58 patients (27%) and new‐onset diabetes mellitus in 30 patients (14%), with median psoas muscle index of 6 cm2/m2 and average total psoas density of 41 Hounsfield Unit. In multivariate analysis, significant risk factors were body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 (p < 0.01), impaired glucose tolerance (p < 0.01), and average total psoas density < 41.9 Hounsfield Unit (p = 0.03). New‐onset diabetes mellitus had incidence rates of 3.7% without risk factors, 10% with a single risk factor, 33% with two, and 60% with three. Patients with new‐onset diabetes mellitus were effectively stratified by the number of risk factors (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Myosteatosis could be a new risk factor used to predict new‐onset diabetes mellitus.
Nurse's knowledge and practice towards prevention of catheter‐associated urinary tract infection: A systematic review
Authors: Alsolami Fatmah , Tayyib Nahla
Published: September 2023

Catheter‐associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) is a common complication associated with indwelling urinary catheters, frequently used in healthcare settings. Nurses play a critical role in preventing CAUTI, as they are often responsible for inserting, maintaining and removing urinary catheters. Therefore, it is important to comprehensively assess nurses' level of knowledge about CAUTIs and the variables that influence their application of best practices and recommendations for preventing these infections. The PRISMA principles were used to conduct a literature search for relevant research publications across several online databases (Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE and Scopus). The quality of these studies was evaluated using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. There were 397 research articles, however only 21 articles were included after the screening. The majority of participants possessed diplomas ranging from 3% to 88.2%. In addition, the percentage of nurses with bachelor's degree's ranges from 11.80% to 100%. Moreover, 23.90% of registered nurses hold a master's degree. Most nurses had between 1 and 5 and more than 5 years of experience. Nurses held good/adequate and average knowledge and practices regarding prevention and control of CAUTIs. Furthermore, age, gender, work experience, professional experience, in‐service training, CAUTI prevention guidelines, time, equipment, personnel availability and work unit were all identified barriers. While continuing/in‐service education and self‐guided modules served as facilitators for the prevention of CAUTIs. Meanwhile, studies were found of good methodological quality. Improving nurses' knowledge and practice towards preventing CAUTI is crucial to reducing the prevalence of the infection and improving patient outcomes. Implementing evidence‐based interventions can help bridge the gap in knowledge and practice among nurses, ultimately leading to better patient care and outcomes.
Correlates of infant pointing frequency in the first year
Authors: Ger Ebru , Küntay Aylin C. , Ertaş Sura , Koşkulu‐Sancar Sümeyye , Liszkowski Ulf
Published: September 2023

This study examines the emergence of concurrent correlates of infant pointing frequency with the aim of contributing to its ontogenetic theories. We measured monthly from 8 to 12 months infants' (N = 56) index‐finger pointing frequency along with several candidate correlates: (1) family socioeconomic status (SES), (2) mothers' pointing production, and (3) infants' point following to targets in front of and behind them. Results revealed that (1) infants increased their pointing frequency across age, but high‐SES infants had a steeper increase, and a higher pointing frequency than low‐SES infants from 10 months onward, (2) maternal pointing frequency was not associated with infant pointing frequency at any age, (3) infants' point following abilities to targets behind their visual fields was positively associated with their pointing frequency at 12 months, after pointing had already emerged around 10 months. Findings suggest that family SES impacts infants' pointing development more generally, not just through maternal pointing. The association between pointing and following points to targets behind, but not in front, suggests that a higher level of referential understanding emerges after, and perhaps through the production of pointing.
Positive coparenting previous to the COVID‐19 pandemic can buffer regulatory problems in infants facing the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Pinto Tiago Miguel , Figueiredo Bárbara
Published: September 2023

Coparenting can be a development‐enhancing or risk‐promoting environment for infant regulatory capacity, mainly in the presence of adversity. This study aimed to analyze the association between positive and negative coparenting previous to the COVID‐19 pandemic and infant regulatory capacity in the presence of the COVID‐19 pandemic, an adverse condition. A sample of 71 first‐born infants and their mothers and fathers from a longitudinal cohort in Portugal were assessed at 2 weeks postpartum before the COVID‐19 pandemic and again at 6 months postpartum, before (n = 35) or during the COVID‐19 pandemic (n = 36). Parents completed measures of positive and negative coparenting and infant regulatory capacity in both assessment waves. Results revealed that the presence of the COVID‐19 pandemic moderates the association between mothers' and fathers' positive coparenting previous to the COVID‐19 pandemic and infant regulatory capacity at 6 months. The association between positive coparenting and regulatory capacity was stronger in infants facing the COVID‐19 pandemic, than in infants who did not face the COVID‐19 pandemic. Positive coparenting previous to the COVID‐19 pandemic may be a development‐enhancing environment for infant regulatory capacity in the presence of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Positive coparenting may buffer regulatory problems in infants facing adverse conditions.
Referral from well‐child care clinics to dental clinics leads to earlier initiation of preventive dental visits: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Verlinden Deborah Ashley , Schuller Annemarie A. , Vermaire J. H. (Erik) , Reijneveld Sijmen A.
Published: September 2023

Background

An ealy first preventive dental visit for children is recommended no later than twelve months. However, still many children have their first dental visit relatively late.

Aim

To evaluate whether active or passive referral by a well‐child care (WCC) physician of babies for a first preventive dental visit leads to earlier initiation of dental care.

Design

From WCC clinics in two Dutch regions, 629 parents of babies participated. Parents received an active referral from a WCC physician for a dental visit for their babies (n = 204) or received care as usual (CAU) (n = 136) in one region and a passive referral (n = 143) or CAU (n = 146) in the other region. Active referral involved parents receiving a scheduled appointment at the dental practice, and passive referral involved parents making an appointment themselves. During the WCC visit, parents completed a baseline questionnaire. At age 2.5 years, parents received a follow‐up questionnaire about dental attendance.

Results

Of the active referral intervention group, 59.3% had their first preventive dental visit in their first year compared with 3.7% in the CAU group (p < .001); for the passive referral group, 46.9% compared with 9.6% (p < .001).

Conclusion

Referral of babies by WCC for their first preventive dental visit leads to earlier initiation of dental care. An active referral had a larger effect than passive referral.
Sea Grant Center for Great Lakes Literacy Shipboard Science Workshop Evaluation
Authors: Hunnell Jennifer , Triezenberg Heather A. , Schroeder Brandon C. , Gass Meaghan J.
Published: September 2023

Youth have an important role in current and future Great Lakes stewardship. Educating youth and empowering them to be Great Lakes stewards requires educators to be knowledgeable and confident, and therefore more likely to engage in teaching Great Lakes literacy activities in their classroom, thus contributing to a Great Lakes‐literate public. The Shipboard Science Workshop (SSW) for educators is a vessel‐based professional learning opportunity aboard the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's research vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian. During the week‐long SSW, educators learn from professional scientists, Sea Grant staff, and each other about Great Lakes research through the lenses of place‐based education (PBE) and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The goals of the SSW are to (1) enhance understanding of scientific concepts, processes, or techniques; (2) influence changes in teaching practices, curriculum, or personal behaviors; (3) influence communication and promotion of pro‐environmental behaviors with others; and (4) establish communities of practice, including educators, scientists, and SSW coordinators. Herein, we present the findings of a 10‐month follow‐up survey to evaluate the SSW efficacy from 2016‐2019. Overall, the SSW appears to have achieved its goals. We discuss the implications of these results within the PBE framework for shifting educators’ classroom approaches and empowering youth inquiry and leadership on complex Great Lakes issues.
Genetic parameters for health traits and their association with fertility and milk production in Chinese Holsteins
Authors: Zhang Junxing , Han Liyun , Zhang Hailiang , Hu Honghong , Sheng Hui , Yang Tongtong , Zhang Yi , Wen Wan , Ma Liqin , Ma Yun , Wang Yachun
Published: September 2023

Herd health is one of the key problems influencing the efficiency of the dairy industry. Genetic selection, with a focus on animal health, is important for herd improvement. This study aimed to estimate genetic parameters for health traits and their correlations with fertility and milk production traits in dairy cattle. Based on records from 58,549 lactating cows calved between 2015 and 2021, a total of 24 health traits (six composite health traits and 18 independent health traits), four fertility traits and five milk production traits were analysed. First, linear and threshold animal models were used to estimate the variance components and heritabilities of the health traits. Second, a bivariate linear animal model was used to estimate genetic correlations among all 24 health traits. Finally, a bivariate linear animal model based on records from the first lactation was used to estimate the correlations between health traits and fertility or milk production traits. The results showed that all health traits had low heritabilities, ranging from 0.002 (0.001) to 0.048 (0.004) in the linear model and from <0.001 (0.021) to 0.226 (0.035) in the threshold model. Genetic correlations between health traits across categories were generally low, whereas the relatively high genetic correlations were found between health traits within the same category. In this study, only a few significant and moderate genetic correlations were observed between health traits and fertility or milk production traits. Clinical mastitis showed relatively moderate correlations with fertility traits, ranging from 0.277 (0.113) (interval from first to last insemination) to 0.401 (0.104) (calving interval). Moreover, there were moderate genetic correlations between hoof health and milk production traits. The results from the current study will support balanced dairy breeding to genetically improve disease resistance in dairy cows.
Less is more: A theory of minimalist luxury
Authors: Liu Z. Jessie , Yildirim Pinar , Zhang Z. John
Published: September 2023

We show theoretically that when high‐quality, low‐price counterfeits exist and are visibly indistinguishable from authentic products, the status‐seeking wealthy may embrace a “less is more” purchasing strategy or what we refer to as the minimalist luxury strategy, to signal their status. These are the wealthy who have a high disutility of shopping for counterfeits. Specifically, in our model, only buyers know the authenticity of their own purchases. Because of this information asymmetry, these wealthy buyers may purposefully restrain from consuming luxury goods as a sacrifice of functional utility to stand out, a signaling strategy that the rest are not willing to mimic. Thus, “less” functional utility allows those status‐seeking wealthy to enjoy “more” symbolic utility that the society bestows on their perceived status. This minimalist luxury strategy is in sharp contrast to Veblen's conspicuous consumption strategy, as well as to the maximalist luxury strategy proposed by Liu et al. We derive this minimalist luxury equilibrium, discuss how signaling in our context can differ from that of Veblen and Liu et al., and explore its managerial implications for the luxury goods industry.
Trichite features contribute to the revision of the genus Strombidium (Alveolata, Ciliophora, Spirotricha)
Authors: Agatha Sabine , Weißenbacher Birgit , Kirschner Michael , Ganser Maximilian H.
Published: September 2023

Strombidium is a species‐rich genus of oligotrichid ciliates mainly inhabiting the marine pelagial. In molecular phylogenies, the genus emerged as non‐monophyletic, and cladistic analyses suggest that it is largely characterized by plesiomorphies. A reliable split of the genus and the establishment of new genera necessitate, however, support by novel morphological and/or ultrastructural features. In the present study, the arrangement and ultrastructure of trichites are proposed as taxonomically relevant characters. Strombidium biarmatum Agatha et al., 2005 differs in the trichite pattern from the type species Strombidium sulcatum and most congeners. Aside from the trichites inserting anteriorly to the girdle kinety and generating the typical funnel‐shaped complex in the posterior cell portion, the species displays additional trichites between the adoral membranelles even visible in live cells. Here, this exceptional trichite arrangement is detailed based on transmission electron microscopic investigations. In molecular phylogenies, S. biarmatum forms a monophylum with two congeners sharing its trichite arrangement. Therefore, the strombidiid genus Heteropilum nov. gen. is established with S. biarmatum as type species to also include H. paracapitatum (Song et al., 2015) nov. comb. and H. basimorphum (Martin & Montagnes, 1993) nov. comb. Further differences discovered in the trichite ultrastructure support the organelles' taxonomic significance.
Cooked rice safety: A review of status and potential of radiative pasteurization
Authors: Owusu Evans Ameyaw , Luthra Kaushik , Bruce Rebecca , Atungulu Griffiths
Published: September 2023

Microbial contamination in cooked rice‐based foods poses a global concern due to rice's widespread consumption. This review aims to consolidate information on harmful microorganisms associated with such foods from various countries and their adverse effects on consumers. Additionally, it explores the reported causes of microbial contamination in cooked rice‐based dishes and proposes an intervention strategy for safer consumption. The findings highlight that ready‐to‐eat cooked rice‐based foods may harbor unsafe levels of microorganisms like Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Aspergillus spp. A recommended solution is the application of microwave pasteurization. This method involves cooking rice in pasteurized packaging, minimizing human contact, and effectively controlling harmful microorganisms. Microwave pasteurization emerges as a promising approach to ensure the safe consumption of cooked rice‐based foods by reducing microbial contamination levels.
The family keyworker as a critical element for attachment resilience in the face of adversity
Authors: Berástegui Ana , Pitillas Carlos
Published: September 2023

Attachment resilience is the ability of attachment relationships to survive adversity and maintain their functions in the face of stress and is a critical component of personal and family resilience. This property is the result of interactive influences across multiple systems of care. In this way, security is transferred across what we call chains of security. This paper will delve into how family keyworkers (i.e., professionals who are referential and responsible for family intervention plans) function as a critical link within these chains of security for hard‐to‐reach families: first, through attachment‐like relationships that foster attachment resilience within families that are vulnerable or face adversity, and second, as receptors and transmitters of security by means of attachment‐centered supervision. Sensitivity, repair, and mentalization are highlighted as key processes constant across these multisystemic levels.
Multiple territorialities and the shifting conservation frontiers of Patagonia
Authors: Rasmussen Mattias Borg , Mendoza Marcos
Published: September 2023

This conclusion to the In‐Focus issue examines the conservation frontier in Patagonia. The conservation frontier is a historical process of spatial transformation connected to the mobilization of imaginaries that unlock existing regimes of resource control and promote new territorialization projects. The discussion highlights the creation of national park systems, the securing of the contested border, and the conversion of Andean Patagonia into a space of sublime wilderness. We argue that the contemporary conservation frontier is an open field of contestation defined by its multiplicities. The articles comprising the special issue reflect crosscutting themes regarding frontier multiplicities: varied conservation‐based territorialization projects; the genesis of onto‐epistemic frictions between actors; and disparate frontier temporalities that anchor spatial transformations. These contemporary frontier projects draw attention to new avenues of change related to Indigenous self‐rule and carework, co‐management regimes, infrastructure building efforts, and eco‐apocalyptic temporalities, as well as hyping the possibility of Patagonia as a bastion for alternative energy. Thus, this conclusion highlights how conservation frontiers are historically made and remade in relation to spatial production tied to capitalist dynamics and state formation.
Examining engagement in a self‐in‐relationship observation exercise by couples coping with breast cancer: A qualitative analysis of text‐based feedback
Authors: Harb Sami I. , Fergus Karen D.
Published: September 2023

Young women with breast cancer (BC) and their partners generally face greater psychosocial difficulties relative to older couples, justifying the need for targeted support for this group. Toward this end, we examined how couples facing BC responded to participating in a self‐in‐relationship observation exercise intended to improve the relationship. Participants (N = 60) were 30 women and 30 male partners who, over the course of a week, observed and textually described/reported their “turning‐towards‐and‐away‐behaviors” deemed to contribute to relationship closeness/distance. Text‐based feedback on the exercise was thematically analyzed. Findings suggest an online exercise promoting in vivo awareness of relationship interactions was feasible and acceptable to the majority of couples. Language accounts reflected acting with and through the shared “turning‐towards‐and‐away‐framework” with the intention of increasing closeness with one's partner. We discuss differences in exercise engagement and how participants reported changes in their attending, understanding, and acting in relationship, primarily for the better.
Heme oxygenase‐1: The roles of both good and evil in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Liu Rong , Yang Jiahua , Li Yinghui , Xie Junxia , Wang Jun
Published: September 2023

Heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) is the only way for cells to decompose heme. It can cleave heme to produce carbon monoxide (CO), ferrous iron (Fe2+), and biliverdin (BV). BV is reduced to bilirubin (BR) by biliverdin reductase(BVR). In previous studies, HO‐1 was considered to have protective effects because of its anti‐inflammatory, anti‐apoptosis, and antiproliferation functions. However, emerging experimental studies have found that the metabolites derived from HO‐1 can cause increase iin intracellular oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, iron death, and autophagy. Because of its particularity, it is very meaningful to understand its exact mechanism. In this review, we summarized the protective and toxic effects of HO‐1, its potential mechanism, its role in neurodegenerative diseases and related drug research. This knowledge may be beneficial to the development of new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases and is crucial to the development of new therapeutic strategies and biomarkers.

image
A qualitative study exploring partner involvement in the management of gestational diabetes mellitus: The experiences of women and partners
Authors: Guo Min , Parsons Judith , Forbes Angus , Shi Wen‐Xin , Kong Min , Zhang Yin‐Ping , Forde Rita
Published: September 2023

Aims

The aims of the study were to explore the experiences of women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and their partners and examine the factors influencing partner involvement in GDM management, seeking to inform a targeted couple‐based intervention.

Design

A descriptive qualitative study.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 14 women with GDM and their partners. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling from a tertiary hospital in Xi'an, China. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes and 12 subthemes were identified. Theme I: Women's expectations of their partner's involvement in GDM management—practical support and emotional support. Theme II: Partner involvement in GDM management—constructive involvement, unhelpful involvement with good intentions and insufficient involvement. Theme III: Factors that influence partner involvement in GDM—knowledge of GDM, GDM risk perception, health consciousness, attitudes towards the treatment plan, couple communication regarding GDM management, family roles and appraisal of GDM management responsibility.

Conclusion

Women desired practical and emotional support from partners. The types of partner involvement in GDM management varied. Some partners provided constructive support, while some partners' involvement was limited, non‐existent or actively unhelpful. By combining these results with the factors influencing partner involvement, our findings may help healthcare professionals develop strategies to involve partners in GDM care and enhance women's ability to manage GDM.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

Partner involvement in GDM care may help them understand and better attend to women's needs, thus improving their experience and potential outcomes. This study highlights novel factors that need to be considered in developing couple‐based interventions for this population.

Reporting Method

The reporting follows the COREQ checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

Some patients were involved in data interpretation. There is no public contribution.
Growth performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation and blood biochemistry in response to partially replacing cottonseed cake with sesame meal in a lamb feedlot diet
Authors: Abdullah Mahmoud A. M. , Gomaa Walaa M. S. , Hassan Rasha I. M. , Elaref Mohamed Y.
Published: September 2023

Recently, it is necessary to formulate high‐quality, balanced and low‐cost rations for ruminants from nontraditional sources. The present study conducted to investigate the impact of partially replacing corticated cottonseed (CS) cake with sesame meal (SM) in a lamb feedlot diet on growth performance, nutrient digestion, rumen fermentation and blood biochemistry. Fifteen growing lambs with an initial body weight of 27.4 ± 1.2 kg (6–7 months old) were randomly assigned into three equal groups (n = 5). Lambs in control group (CS) fed a basal diet, while 8% and 16% SM were used to replace an equal portion of corticated CS cake in the second (8SM) and third (16SM) groups respectively. Results showed that most parameters of growth performance and nutrient digestibility were significantly improved (p < 0.05) with the partial replacement of SM (8SM and/or 16SM). Regarding ruminal parameters, ruminal pH and total volatile fatty acids concentration increased (p < 0.05), while ammonia level and total protozoa count decreased with the partial replacement of SM. Moreover, blood parameters showed variant responses to SM partial replacement. Total protein increased, and glucose decreased significantly with 16SM, while cholesterol showed a significant decreasing with both SM replacement levels. SM may substitute CS cake in lamb diet without detrimental effects on performance, digestibility and ruminal fermentation.
No impact of polymorphism in the phosphodiesterase 5A gene in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels on pimobendan‐induced inhibition of platelet aggregation response
Authors: Reimann Maria J. , Faisst Daniel N. , Knold Mads , Meurs Kathryn M. , Stern Joshua A. , Cremer Signe E. , Møller Jacob E. , Ljungvall Ingrid , Häggström Jens , Olsen Lisbeth H.
Published: September 2023

Background

A variant in the canine phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5A gene (PDE5A:E90K) is associated with decreased concentrations of circulating cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and response to PDE5 inhibitor treatment. Pimobendan is a PDE inhibitor recommended for medical treatment of certain stages of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in dogs.

Hypothesis

PDE5A:E90K polymorphism attenuates the inhibitory effect of pimobendan on in vitro platelet aggregation and increases basal platelet aggregation in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS). Selected clinical variables (MMVD severity, sex, age, hematocrit, platelet count in platelet‐rich plasma [PRP], and echocardiographic left ventricular fractional shortening [LV FS]) will not show an association with results.

Animals

Fifty‐two privately owned CKCS with no or preclinical MMVD.

Methods

Using blood samples, we prospectively assessed PDE5A genotype using Sanger sequencing and adenosine diphosphate‐induced platelet aggregation response (area under the curve [AUC], maximal aggregation [MaxA], and velocity [Vel]) with and without pimobendan using light transmission aggregometry. Dogs also underwent echocardiography.

Results

Pimobendan inhibited platelet function as measured by AUC, MaxA, and Vel at a concentration of 10 μM (P < .0001) and Vel at 0.03 μM (P < .001). PDE5A:E90K polymorphism did not influence the inhibitory effect of pimobendan or basal platelet aggregation response.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The PDE5A:E90K polymorphism did not influence in vitro basal platelet aggregation response or the inhibitory effect of pimobendan on platelet aggregation in CKCS. Dogs with the PDE5A:E90K polymorphism did not appear to have altered platelet function or response to pimobendan treatment.
Lack of improvement in anorectal manometry parameters after implementation of a pelvic floor/anal sphincter biofeedback in persons with motor‐incomplete spinal cord injury
Authors: Aloysius Mark M. , Korsten Mark A. , Radulovic Miroslav , Singh Kamaldeep , Lyons Brian L. , Cummings Tradd , Hobson Joshua , Kahal Sandeep , Spungen Ann M. , Bauman William A.
Published: September 2023

Background

Effect of biofeedback on improving anorectal manometric parameters in incomplete spinal cord injury is unknown. A short‐term biofeedback program investigated any effect on anorectal manometric parameters without correlation to bowel symptoms.

Methods

This prospective uncontrolled interventional study comprised three study subject groups, Group 1: sensory/motor‐complete American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) A SCI (n = 13); Group 2 (biofeedback group): sensory incomplete AIS B SCI (n = 17) (n = 3), and motor‐incomplete AIS C SCI (n = 8), and AIS D SCI (n = 6); and Group 3: able‐bodied (AB) controls (n = 12). High‐resolution anorectal manometry (HR‐ARM) was applied to establish baseline characteristics in all subjects for anorectal pressure, volume, length of pressure zones, and duration of sphincter squeeze pressure. SCI participants with motor‐incomplete SCI were enrolled in pelvic floor/anal sphincter bowel biofeedback training (2 × 6‐week training periods comprised of two training sessions per week for 30–45 min per session). HR‐ARM was also performed after each of the 6‐week periods of biofeedback training.

Results

Compared to motor‐complete or motor‐incomplete SCI participants, AB subjects had higher mean intra‐rectal pressure, maximal sphincteric pressure, residual anal pressure, recto‐anal pressure gradient, and duration of squeeze (p < 0.05 for each of the endpoints). No significant difference was evident at baseline between the motor‐complete and motor‐incomplete SCI groups. In motor‐incomplete SCI subjects, the pelvic floor/anal sphincter biofeedback protocol failed to improve HR‐ARM parameters.

Conclusion

Biofeedback training program did not improve anal manometric parameters in subjects with motor‐incomplete or sensory‐incomplete SCI. Biofeedback did not change physiology, and its effects on symptoms are unknown.

Inferences

Utility of biofeedback is limited in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury in terms of improving HR‐ARM parameters.
Rooting depth and xylem vulnerability are independent woody plant traits jointly selected by aridity, seasonality, and water table depth
Authors: Laughlin Daniel C. , Siefert Andrew , Fleri Jesse R. , Tumber‐Dávila Shersingh Joseph , Hammond William M. , Sabatini Francesco Maria , Damasceno Gabriella , Aubin Isabelle , Field Richard , Hatim Mohamed Z. , Jansen Steven , Lenoir Jonathan , Lens Frederic , McCarthy James K. , Niinemets Ülo , Phillips Oliver L. , Attorre Fabio , Bergeron Yves , Bruun Hans Henrik , Byun Chaeho , Ćušterevska Renata , Dengler Jürgen , De Sanctis Michele , Dolezal Jiri , Jiménez‐Alfaro Borja , Hérault Bruno , Homeier Jürgen , Kattge Jens , Meir Patrick , Mencuccini Maurizio , Noroozi Jalil , Nowak Arkadiusz , Peñuelas Josep , Schmidt Marco , Škvorc Željko , Sultana Fahmida , Ugarte Rosina Magaña , Bruelheide Helge
Published: September 2023

Evolutionary radiations of woody taxa within arid environments were made possible by multiple trait innovations including deep roots and embolism‐resistant xylem, but little is known about how these traits have coevolved across the phylogeny of woody plants or how they jointly influence the distribution of species.

We synthesized global trait and vegetation plot datasets to examine how rooting depth and xylem vulnerability across 188 woody plant species interact with aridity, precipitation seasonality, and water table depth to influence species occurrence probabilities across all biomes.

Xylem resistance to embolism and rooting depth are independent woody plant traits that do not exhibit an interspecific trade‐off. Resistant xylem and deep roots increase occurrence probabilities in arid, seasonal climates over deep water tables. Resistant xylem and shallow roots increase occurrence probabilities in arid, nonseasonal climates over deep water tables. Vulnerable xylem and deep roots increase occurrence probabilities in arid, nonseasonal climates over shallow water tables. Lastly, vulnerable xylem and shallow roots increase occurrence probabilities in humid climates.

Each combination of trait values optimizes occurrence probabilities in unique environmental conditions. Responses of deeply rooted vegetation may be buffered if evaporative demand changes faster than water table depth under climate change.
Germination of aged oat seeds associated with changes in antioxidant enzyme activity and storage compounds mobilization
Authors: Yi Kun , Yue Jiaming , Yang Shuangfeng , Jiang Yiwei , Hong Liu , Zeng Hanguo , Wei Kai , Mao Peisheng , Sun Yan , Dou Liru , Li Manli
Published: September 2023

Germination of aged seeds may be associated with specific metabolic changes. The objective of this study was to examine physiological and metabolic alterations before and after germination of control and aged oat (Avena sativa) seeds. The activity of antioxidant enzymes and the level of storage compounds were measured in the embryo and endosperm at 0, 4, 16, and 32 h of imbibition for control seeds and 0, 4, 16, 32, and 60 h of imbibition for medium vigor seeds after artificially accelerated aging; metabolomic changes were determined in embryos at 16 and 32 h of seed imbibition. In aged oat seeds, superoxide dismutase activity and catalase activity increased in the late imbibition stage. The content of soluble sugars decreased significantly in the later stages of imbibition, while the content of proteins increased in 32 h of seed imbibition eventually producing mannitol and proline. The mobilization of fat in deteriorated seeds was mainly through the sphingolipid metabolic pathway generated by cell growth‐promoting dihydrosphingosine‐1‐phosphate. Ascorbic acid, avenanthramide and proline levels increased significantly at 60 h of imbibition, playing an important role in the germination of aged oat seeds.
Fallopia japonica and Fallopia × bohemica extracts cause ultrastructural and biochemical changes in root tips of radish seedlings
Authors: Šoln Katarina , Žnidaršič Nada , Klemenčič Marina , Koce Jasna Dolenc
Published: September 2023

Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) and Bohemian knotweed (Fallopia × bohemica) are invasive plants that use allelopathy as an additional mechanism for colonization of the new habitat. Allelochemicals affect the growth of roots of neighboring plants. In the present study, we analyze the early changes associated with the inhibited root growth of radish seedlings exposed to aqueous extracts of knotweed rhizomes for 3 days. Here, we show that cells in the root cap treated with the knotweed extracts exhibited reduced cell length and displayed several ultrastructural changes, including the increased abundance of dilated ER cisternae filled with electron‐dense material (ER bodies) and the accumulation of dense inclusions. Moreover, mitochondrial damage was exhibited in the root cap and the meristem zone compared to the non‐treated radish seedlings. Furthermore, malfunction of the intracellular redox balance system was detected as the increased total antioxidative capacity. We also detected increased metacaspase‐like proteolytic activities and, in the case of 10% extract of F. japonica, increased caspase‐like proteolytic activities. These ultrastructural and biochemical effects could be the reason for the more than 60% shorter root length of treated radish seedlings compared to controls.
Impact of respiratory aerosol size and number distribution on the relative importance of different routes in SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission
Authors: Ji Shuyi , Jones Rachael M. , Lei Hao
Published: September 2023

Exploring the relative importance of different routes in SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission is crucial in infection prevention. However, even in the same environmental setting, the relative importance of different routes has varied in different studies. We hypothesize that respiratory aerosol size and number distribution might play a key role. In this study, size and number distribution of respiratory droplets emitted from breathing, talking, and coughing were identified from PubMed and Web of Science. The infection risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 via airborne, droplet, and fomite transmission routes was modeled in a household and a healthcare setting. The relative importance of three routes varied with different size distributions in both settings. Generally, the contribution of the airborne route increased with the volume percentage of respirable droplets emitted. And the increase of the total number of emitted droplets leads to an increase in the contribution of tdroplet route. In the healthcare setting, as the total number of emitted droplets increased from 110 to 4,973, the contribution of droplet route increased from 62.24% to 98.11%. Next, by considering the combination of breathing, coughing, and talking when the infected person was asymptomatic, the airborne route predominated over the droplet and contact routes. When the infected person had developed symptoms, that is, cough, the droplet route played a dominant role in SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission. In conclusion, risk analyses will be improved with improved sampling methods that enable characterization of viruses within respiratory droplets of different sizes.
Individual credit market experience and beliefs about bank lending policy: evidence from a firm survey
Authors: Fidrmuc Jarko , Hainz Christa , Hölzl Werner
Published: September 2023

Using the Austrian Business Survey between 2011 and 2016, we study how firms' individual credit market experiences influence their beliefs about the bank lending policy. Firms that have recently experienced a loan rejection are more likely to believe that the lending policy is restrictive. We see similar effects for firms that were granted loans, but with conditions worse than anticipated. Exploiting the panel structure shows that firms without recent credit market experience are less likely to change their beliefs, which converge towards the middle category. Our findings are in line with theories of rational inattention and with asymmetric experience effects.
Hot water immersion: Maintaining core body temperature above 38.5°C mitigates muscle fatigue
Authors: Sautillet Benoît , Bourdillon Nicolas , Millet Grégoire P. , Lemaître Fréderic , Cozette Maryne , Delanaud Stéphane , Ahmaïdi Saïd , Costalat Guillaume
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Hot water immersion (HWI) has gained popularity to promote muscle recovery, despite limited data on the optimal heat dose. The purpose of this study was to compare the responses of two exogenous heat strains on core body temperature, hemodynamic adjustments, and key functional markers of muscle recovery following exercise‐induced muscle damage (EIMD).

Methods

Twenty‐eight physically active males completed an individually tailored EIMD protocol immediately followed by one of the following recovery interventions: HWI (40°C, HWI40), HWI (41°C, HWI41) or warm water immersion (36°C, CON36). Gastrointestinal temperature (Tgi), hemodynamic adjustments (cardiac output [CO], mean arterial pressure [MAP], and systemic vascular resistance [SVR]), pre‐frontal cortex deoxyhemoglobin (HHb), ECG‐derived respiratory frequency, and subjective perceptual measures were tracked throughout immersion. In addition, functional markers of muscle fatigue (maximal concentric peak torque [Tpeak]) and muscle damage (late‐phase rate of force development [RFD100–200]) were measured prior to EIMD (pre‐), 24 h (post‐24 h), and 48 h (post‐48 h) post‐EIMD.

Results

By the end of immersion, HWI41 led to significantly higher Tgi values than HWI40 (38.8 ± 0.1 vs. 38.0°C ± 0.6°C, p < 0.001). While MAP was well maintained throughout immersion, only HWI41 led to increased (HHb) (+4.2 ± 1.47 μM; p = 0.005) and respiratory frequency (+4.0 ± 1.21 breath.min−1; p = 0.032). Only HWI41 mitigated the decline in RFD100–200 at post‐24 h (−7.1 ± 31.8%; p = 0.63) and Tpeak at post‐48 h (−3.1 ± 4.3%, p = 1).

Conclusion

In physically active males, maintaining a core body temperature of ~25 min within the range of 38.5°C–39°C has been found to be effective in improving muscle recovery, while minimizing the risk of excessive physiological heat strain.
(Re)centring the geopolitical: A response to Henry Yeung's intervention on ‘troubling economic geography’
Authors: Potts Shaina
Published: September 2023

In his thought‐provoking commentary on the future of economic geography, Henry Yeung considers recent global economic transformations and their implications for ‘troubling’ the discipline of economic geography. He identifies four particular areas for further attention: (1) (geo)political dynamics; (2) new risks and uncertainties; (3) new geographies of labour; and (4) global environmental change. In this brief response, I focus on the first and fourth, which I see as closely connected. Specifically, I use Yeung's call as a launching point from which to elaborate on three potentially fruitful avenues for recentring geopolitics in economic geography, by: (1) focusing on not only new but also previous and ongoing geopolitical economic dynamics; (2) incorporating not only national and supra‐national, but also transnational economic governance; and (3) foregrounding the intersection of geopolitics and environmental change. I conclude by considering why and how an economic geographic approach remains important to pursuing all three research directions, even as the current conjuncture demands that economic geography open itself further to new methods, topics and inter‐ and intra‐disciplinary research collaborations.
An Overview of Procurement Practice in the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), Malaysia
Authors: Muda Mohd Rafizu , Sulong Norizan , Ariffin Aini Suzana , Charehzehi Aref
Published: September 2023

This paper aims to describe the general overview of procurement practices at the Ministry of Defence, Malaysia. Although the Ministry’s procurement practices must align with the general public procurement guidelines, rules and regulations set up by the Ministry of Finance, defence procurement deals with highly diversified asset acquisitions which can be extremely complex and sensitive in nature, process, and regulations. As such, it is crucial to examine the current defence procurement practices in Malaysia from the perspective of two policy documents namely the National Defence Policy and the Defence White Paper. Brief discussions on the types of procurement and agencies involved in the procurement process are also presented. Previous studies related to defence procurement both from Western literature and local studies are also offered along with a brief view on the notion of value for money.
Enlightenment on Career Education from Bruner’s Narrative View of Cultural Psychology
Authors: Fan Mengxu , Li He
Published: September 2023

At present, China’s career education displays a lack of cultural awareness. From the perspective of Constructivism, narrative career counseling focuses on the process of individual construction, while Bruner’s narrative view of cultural psychology highlights the perspective of social culture. Learners can acquire the ability needed for career development from culture to cope with the complexity and changeability of society. Bruner’s narrative view of cultural psychology emphasizes the meanings, metaphors and mutations in culture. The enlightenment on career education will be discussed from two aspects in this paper: one is that career education should be developed from a cultural perspective because culture is a resource and tool of career education; the other is that the narrative method should be adopted in career education.
Asymptotic enumeration of graphical regular representations
Authors: Xia Binzhou , Zheng Shasha
Published: September 2023

We estimate the number of graphical regular representations (GRRs) of a given group with large enough order. As a consequence, we show that almost all finite Cayley graphs have full automorphism groups ‘as small as possible’. This confirms a conjecture of Babai–Godsil–Imrich–Lovász on the proportion of GRRs, as well as a conjecture of Xu on the proportion of normal Cayley graphs, among Cayley graphs of a given finite group.