bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What is the Relationship Between Plant Trait Diversity and Geodiversity? A Plot‐Based, Pan‐European Analysis
Authors: Vernham Grant , Bailey Joseph J. , Field Richard , Schrodt Franziska
Published: August 2024

Aim

Heterogeneity of the Earth's abiotic surface and subsurface (geodiversity) is increasingly recognised as an important driver of biodiversity. Theoretically, species' traits should match to abiotic conditions in the local environment. Here, we test this for the first time at a continental extent by analysing the relationships between geodiversity and plant trait diversity in forested vegetation plots across Europe, at three plot sizes (100, 400 and 1000 m2).

Location

Europe.

Time Period

1930–present.

Major Taxa Studied

Plants.

Methods

We analysed geodiversity–trait diversity relationships across Europe at 1 km resolution using 2637 forested vegetation plots from the sPlotOpen database. We computed geodiversity (topographic, landform, wetness and soil physical and chemical heterogeneity) variables, combined with climate and land use data to analyse the direct and indirect effects of geodiversity on plant trait diversity, using structural equation modelling.

Results

Topographic heterogeneity, and annual temperature to a lesser degree, showed significant positive weak to moderately strong association with plant trait richness and evenness across all plot sizes. We also detected multiple highly significant but weak effects of geodiversity components on trait diversity dimensions. Some notable exceptions include moderate negative effects of soil silt heterogeneity on trait divergence across 1000 m2 plots and positive and weak negative effects of TWI and soil sand heterogeneity on trait evenness, respectively. Explained variance was low across models, but higher for models from 1000 m2 vegetation plots. Evidence for the indirect effects of geodiversity on trait diversity was extremely weak.

Main Conclusions

Our findings suggest variable‐specific effects of geodiversity on trait diversity, with significant effects of multiple geodiversity components but dominated by topographic heterogeneity. Importantly, data precision is limited, and we are thus trying to detect signal amongst high noise. Hence, the significant but weak signals we detect may indicate more important underlying patterns than our effect sizes suggest.
Incidence and influencing factors for respiratory sarcopenia in older adults: The first longitudinal evidence from the CHARLS
Authors: Chen Kangkang , Chen Qifeng , Xu Laichao
Published: August 2024

Aim

Respiratory sarcopenia (RS) has been newly defined in a position paper by four professional organizations in Japan, and it is necessary to examine its incidence and influencing factors using this new definition. So far, little work has been undertaken; we therefore conducted a longitudinal study to fill this gap.

Methods

Our data were extracted from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. A total of 4301 older adults with complete data and without RS were chosen in 2011, of whom 3065 were followed up until 2015. The presence of low respiratory muscle strength plus low appendicular skeletal muscles mass was defined as RS based on t. A logistic regression model was used to identify the influencing factors for incident RS.

Results

After an average of 4 years of follow‐up, the cumulative incidence of RS was 5.2%, and it was particularly high in participants aged >80 (20.9%). Logistic regression analysis showed that being unmarried/divorced/widowed (odds ratio [OR] = 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.28–2.66, P = 0.001), not having dyslipidemia (OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.19–0.65, P = 0.001), having digestive disease (OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.11–2.19, P = 0.010), asthma (OR = 2.77, 95% CI = 1.55–4.94, P = 0.001), edentulism (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.24–2.42, P = 0.001), low handgrip strength (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.99–3.99, P < 0.001), or low 5‐m gait speed (OR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.23–3.01, P = 0.004) were associated with a greater likelihood of developing RS. After further adjustment for age and body mass index, asthma, edentulism, and low handgrip strength remained significant.

Conclusions

The identification and management of older adults with the influencing factors described above could be important in preventing RS. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••–••.
Recent Advances in the Compositional and Mapping Analysis of Iron Meteorites Using a Handheld Laser‐Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy Instrument
Authors: Senesi Giorgio S. , De Pascale Olga , Mattiello Sara , Moggi Cecchi Vanni , Ibhi Abderrahmane , Ouknine Lahcen , Nachit Hassan
Published: August 2024

Analytical techniques are essential in investigating the unique features of extra‐terrestrial geomaterials, and the use of in situ analytical tools is becoming increasingly common, as it facilitates a quick initial bulk chemical analysis, identification and classification. In this work, a handheld laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (hLIBS) instrument has been used to identify the qualitative and quantitative composition, and generate compositional micro‐maps, of a suite of iron meteorite samples representative of the different chemical and structural classes by analysing the spectra released from the plasma formed by the laser impact. Furthermore, the analytical performance of hLIBS was compared with that of portable X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF). The analytical precision and accuracy of the calibration curves previously built in the laboratory for a set of certified reference metal alloys was assessed, so that the same protocol could be used to measure those of the investigated iron meteorites. A good agreement was achieved between hLIBS and reference data in the quantitative estimate of the elements Fe, Ni, Co and Cu. An attempt to quantify Ga by LIBS in two classified iron meteorites was also successful.
The Effect of Social Support on Consumers' Variety Seeking
Authors: Cai Yuanyuan , Xu Lisha , Zhang Ke
Published: August 2024

Social support is paramount to people's well‐being. Yet little is known about how such support influences individuals' consumption decisions in retail contexts. This multi‐method research featured five quantitative studies and showed that receiving social support can reduce consumers' variety seeking in subsequent consumption situations. Specifically, Studies 1A and 1B employed secondary data analysis, consistently revealing a negative association between social support and variety seeking. Studies 2–4 adopted experimentation approaches. Study 2 (N = 125) confirmed the proposed effect by experimentally manipulating social support. Study 3 (N = 299) shed light on the underlying mechanism by presenting a mediation model (i.e., social support → increased sense of satisfaction → decreased variety seeking). Besides, Studies 3 (N = 299) and 4 (N = 288) identified two moderators (i.e., individuals' trait gratitude and the chance to pay it forward) of the proposed effect.
Exploring the Impact of Mobile App Quality on consumers' Online Intention to Transact
Authors: Xie Lishan , Zhu Tengteng , Liu Shuying , Huan Tzung‐Cheng
Published: August 2024

This study constructed a research framework for exploring the relationship between the three dimensions of app quality (system quality, information quality, and service quality), flow experience, brand trust, and intention to transact based on the business‐to‐consumer e‐commerce platform. The proposed model was tested by analyzing questionnaire survey data from a sample of 503 consumers with experience of mobile online shopping using the variance‐based structural equation modeling technique. The results showed that all three dimensions of app quality were positively associated with flow experience and brand trust. Flow experience was positively associated with intention to transact. The effect of brand trust on consumers' intention to transact was greater than that of flow experience, suggesting that when shopping on a mobile app platform, consumers may be more concerned about trusting the brand than about pleasure in making a purchase decision. The results enrich business‐to‐consumer e‐commerce theory and provide meaningful managerial implications.
Addressing residue and resistance in food animals: a policy imperative in Southeast Asia
Authors: Sundram Pushpanathan , Lloyd Charmaine , Eri Rajaraman
Published: August 2024

Residue and resistance in food animals pose significant challenges to Southeast Asia's public health, animal welfare, agricultural productivity, and sustainability. This article emphasises the need for policy interventions to address these issues effectively. Residue, the presence of harmful substances in animal products, is a concern due to the misuse of veterinary drugs and pesticides. Robust surveillance programs, risk assessment, and enforcement of maximum residue limits are crucial to ensure food safety. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is another critical challenge in the region, driven by intensive animal production systems and disproportionate antimicrobial use. Responsible antimicrobial use, surveillance systems, and alternative production practices like vaccination, enhanced animal husbandry, and improved biosecurity a re essential to combat the menace. Addressing residue and resistance requires a comprehensive mindset and policy approach, including strengthening regulatory frameworks and inter‐agency collaboration, including a One Health approach. Governments, farms, veterinarians, and other stakeholders must work together to develop and enforce effective policies. Education and awareness campaigns can promote responsible practices throughout the food‐animal production chain. By prioritising the reduction of residue and resistance, Southeast Asian countries can safeguard public health, ensure sustainable agriculture, and contribute to global efforts in tackling AMR. Policymakers supported by academia, industry, and other stakeholders play a crucial role in effectively shaping and implementing policies to address these challenges.
Lipidomics unveils changes in oxidised lipids in human breast milk by high‐pressure processing
Authors: Medina‐Meza I. G. , Balasubramaniam V.M. , Kaven M. , da Silva A. Gomes , Guduru Sai Sashidhar
Published: August 2024

Human breast milk is a complex fluid rich in bioactive molecules crucial for infant growth and development. Global health organisations recommend exclusive breastfeeding to optimise infant health. In cases where maternal milk is unavailable, donor breast milk from human milk banks (HMBs) serves as an essential alternative. Currently, human breast milk preservation relies on Holder pasteurisation (HoP), which, while effective at pathogen inactivation, can compromise breast milk's nutritional and biological properties. High‐pressure processing (HPP) is an alternative pasteurisation method that utilises high pressure to kill pathogens without degrading nutrition. This study examined HPP's impact on donor breast milk lipids, sugars and antioxidants. Metabolomics reveals diverse bioactive compounds, including lipids, polyphenols and polyketides, elucidating breast milk's complexity. Some lipid subclasses respond to HPP; ceramides decreased under both treatments, while fatty aldehydes and esters increased under specific HPP conditions. Additionally, we quantified oxidised lipids, notably dietary oxysterols (DOxS), known for pro‐oxidant and pro‐inflammatory properties. These findings enhance understanding of HPP targeted approaches and breast milk's complexity, contributing to innovative milk preservation techniques that could advance specialised infant nutrition and assist donor milk banking systems.
Improving undergraduate education in immunology through assessment of interdisciplinary scientific knowledge
Authors: Baty Joshua J , Patel Isha , Taylor Jared P , Graben Connor , Deaver Jill , Justement Louis B , Bruns Heather A
Published: August 2024

The interdisciplinary nature of immunology can make studying not only engaging but also challenging, as understanding immunologic processes and immune system components requires foundational knowledge from several science disciplines. The University of Alabama at Birmingham has a unique, 4‐year, Undergraduate Immunology Program (UIP) that provides a comprehensive curriculum in immunology that includes five core courses starting in the second year, at which point, students are in the process of completing basic science sequences. For this study, students in courses across the UIP curriculum were asked to identify basic science topics that relate to four immunology concepts. In addition, students were surveyed on their confidence in understanding each of the basic science topics and were asked to identify the course in which they felt that they had fully learned the topic. Data from this study did not demonstrate a change in students’ interdisciplinary science competency from the second to fourth year. Importantly, students reported that they fully understood 11 out of 12 basic science concepts in courses offered in their first and second years, with confidence in basic science topics significantly improving from the second to third year. The lack of demonstrated improvement in interdisciplinary understanding across the curriculum may be attributed to the fact that students are able to integrate basic science topics with foundational immunologic concepts as early as their second year. Importantly, these findings suggest that the integration or review of basic science topics in an immunology course may improve students’ comprehension of foundational immunology concepts and interdisciplinary science competency.
Structure, bond features, and microwave dielectric properties of Li2(Mg1−xCax)2(MoO4)3 ceramics for ULTCC application
Authors: Duan Shumin , Qing Zhenjun , Liu An , Li Haiyan , Xue Yan
Published: August 2024

Ultra‐low temperature sintered ceramics, Li2(Mg1−xCax)2(MoO4)3 (x = 0.025–0.100), were synthesized using the solid‐phase method. XRD analysis revealed that adding Ca2+ increased the second‐phase CaMoO4 content. Particularly, Li2(Mg0.975Ca0.025)2(MoO4)3 ceramics exhibited excellent properties: εr = 9.31, Q × f = 55,400 GHz, and τf = −38.9 ppm/°C. Incorporating Ca2+ significantly improved the performance of ceramics. The microwave dielectric properties of Li2(Mg0.9Ca0.1)2(MoO4)3 ceramics sintered at 650°C showed enhancements: εr of 9.55, Q × f of 63,500 GHz, and τf of −10.8 ppm/°C. The rise in εr can be attributed to polarizability, while a higher packing fraction led to a larger Q × f value, and the reduced distortion of the [Li/Mg/CaO6] octahedra enhanced the τf value. Moreover, the increased of CaMoO4 also positively influenced the ceramic's properties. Furthermore, in accordance with the principles of complex chemical bonding, the elevation of ionicity, lattice energy, and bond energy of the Mo–O bond contributed to the enhancement of εr, Q × f, and τf, respectively. Raman spectroscopy showed a positive correlation between dielectric loss and full width at half maximum of the Raman peak. Good chemical compatibility between silver and Li2(Mg0.9Ca0.1)2(MoO4)3 ceramic was demonstrated through our co‐firing experiment.
The influence of point defects on the sintering of magnesium oxide
Authors: Halabi Rawan , Simotko Sasha , Tsur Yoed
Published: August 2024

In this study, the influence of foreign and native point defects in magnesium oxide on the sintering process is examined. We have introduced dopants into magnesium oxide, with cations that share similar sizes but possess varying charges to minimize the direct impact of strain. The selected foreign cations were as follows: (1) Li1+, an acceptor that enhances the concentration of oxygen vacancies; (2) Sc3+, a donor that enhances the concentration of magnesium (metal) vacancies; and (3) Zn2+, an isovalent dopant. The results reveal that oxygen vacancies introduced by lithium doping greatly decrease the sintering temperature of magnesium oxide compared to the magnesium vacancies’ effect (scandium doping). Zinc doping was found to increase the surface oxygen vacancies with only a minor effect on the sintering temperature. Enhancing the oxygen vacancy concentration by lithium doping creates an additional mechanism for sintering because the anion sublattice is the backbone of the material, and oxygen ion diffusion is the rate‐limiting step. Scandium doping also has a sintering–promoting effect, yet a minor one. The doping factor analysis is considered and implies that aliovalent dopants do not affect the concentration of the fast‐diffusing species, which are native vacancy associates.
Dissolution kinetics of cementitious magnesium silicate hydrate in air‐equilibrated water
Authors: Wahab Abdul , Nguyen Trinh Thao My , Singh Dylan , La Plante Erika
Published: August 2024

Magnesium silicate hydrate (M‐S‐H) represents a promising alternative to traditional cement, particularly for low‐pH construction applications such as nuclear waste encapsulation and carbon dioxide injection. The durability of construction materials, a critical aspect of their suitability for various purposes, is primarily governed by the kinetics of dissolution of the binder phase under service conditions. In this study, we employed in situ atomic force microscopy to assess the dissolution rates of M‐S‐H in water equilibrated with air. Quantitative analysis based on changes in volume and height revealed dissolution rates ranging from 0.18 to 3.09 × 10−12 mol/cm2/s depending on the precipitate Mg/Si ratio and morphology. This rate surpasses its crystalline analogs, talc (Mg3Si4O10(OH)2) and serpentine (Mg3(Si2O5)(OH)4), by about three to five orders of magnitude. Interestingly, oriented M‐S‐H dissolved faster than non‐oriented M‐S‐H. Spatially resolved assessments of dissolution rates facilitated a direct correlation between rates and morphology, showing that edges and smaller crystallites dissolve at a faster pace compared to facets and larger crystallites. The outcomes of this study provide insights into the mechanisms governing the dissolution of M‐S‐H and the factors dictating its durability. These findings hold implications for the strategic design and optimization of M‐S‐H for various applications.
Correlation of psychological resilience with social support and coping style in Parkinson's disease: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yang Mengshu , Xue Jingyuan , Kong Xiaoyun , Liu Wenjing , Wang Yihao , Zou Yanwei , Wang Ling , Dong Ci
Published: August 2024

Aims

To analyse the current status of psychological resilience in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and its correlation with social support and coping style.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

PD patients hospitalized in a tertiary‐level hospital in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, from March 2022 to March 2023 were selected for the study using the convenience sampling method. A general information questionnaire, psychological resilience scale, Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire and Perceived Social Support Scale were used to investigate 111 cases of PD. SPSS 25.0 software was used for statistical analysis. The data were analysed using independent samples t‐test, one‐way ANOVA, multiple linear regression analysis and the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

Parkinson's disease patients have a moderate level of psychological resilience. The results of the Pearson correlation analyses showed that the level of psychological resilience was positively correlated with social support and confrontation and was negatively correlated with avoidance and acceptance‐resignation. The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that social support and acceptance‐resignation were the influencing factors of psychological resilience in PD patients.

Conclusion

The psychological resilience of PD patients is at a moderate level. Social support and acceptance‐resignation are the factors influencing the psychological resilience of PD patients.

Impact Statement

This study analysed the level of psychological resilience in PD patients and its correlation with social support and coping style from the perspective of positive psychology to provide some reference for targeted clinical interventions. Our study found that social support and acceptance‐resignation are influential factors in psychological resilience in PD patients. Medical staff should encourage patients to face the disease positively and their social support should be increased in order to improve their level of psychological resilience.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Including significant others in psychological therapy with people with intellectual disabilities: A national survey of the practice of UK psychologists
Authors: Surley Laura , Dagnan Dave , Lawson Kate , Jahoda Andrew
Published: August 2024

Background

Talking therapy for people with intellectual disabilities is often specifically adapted. One adaptation is the involvement of significant others in therapy, however, there is no systematic description of the use of this adaptation in routine clinical practice.

Method

An online survey of UK psychologists regarding the inclusion of significant others in individual therapy with people with intellectual disabilities. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Ninety‐five psychologists who work with people with intellectual disabilities provided responses to questions regarding the decision to include significant others in therapy, factors that make including significant others more or less likely and how the role of significant others is explained to them.

Conclusions

Psychologists consider a range of factors in deciding the involvement of significant others. We discuss implications for training of therapists working with people with intellectual disabilities, issues of consent and how the roles of significant others are understood.
Validation of GenProb‐T1D and its clinical utility for differentiating types of diabetes in a biobank from a US healthcare system
Authors: Billings Liana K. , Shi Zhuqing , Mulford Ashley J. , Wei Jun , Tran Huy , Ashworth Annabelle , Zheng S. Lilly , Dunnenberger Henry M. , Hulick Peter J. , Sanders Alan R. , Xu Jianfeng
Published: August 2024

Atypical diabetes with overlapping clinical features of type 1 (T1D) and type 2 (T2D) is common and challenging diagnostically and for implementing effective treatment. Here, we validate a recently reported genetic probability of type 1 diabetes (GenProb‐T1D) from the UK Biobank (UKB) for differentiating type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes in a diabetes patient cohort from a healthcare system‐based biobank in the USA. Among 3,363 diabetes patients, we confirmed the performance of GenProb‐T1D in differentiating typical type 1 diabetes vs type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, for 359 atypical diabetes patients, those with GenProb‐T1D higher than the pre‐defined cutoff derived from the UKB had clinical presentations more consistent with that of typical type 1 diabetes. Similar findings were found in participants of European and non‐European ancestries. This study provides necessary validation to translate GenProb‐T1D into genetic testing in a multi‐ancestry cohort. Measuring underlying genetic susceptibility of type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes can supplement current clinical tools for earlier and more accurate diagnoses of diabetes.
Formed in context: A mixed‐methods study of medical students' mindsets in an Eastern culture
Authors: Tan Jiaxi , Li Honghe , Zhang Pingmei , Hirsh David A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Mindsets have become an important focus in the fields of social and cognitive psychology. When holding a growth mindset, people appear more likely to engage in hard work and effort to foster success, seeing setbacks as necessary for learning. When holding a fixed mindset, in contrast, people tend to believe success comes from innate ability, seeing setbacks as evidence of inability. As such, mindsets affect students' learning, resilience and personal development. There is little empirical evidence, however, regarding how medical students perceive mindsets and the fundamental determinants of mindset formation, especially in non‐Western contexts. This study investigated medical students' mindsets and perceptions of mindset formation with the aim of broadening the cross‐cultural understanding of self‐theories.

Methods

Using a convergent mixed‐methods approach at a medical school in China, the authors conducted a survey and four focus groups with medical students in first to third years. Quantitatively, we used the Dweck Mindset Scale to describe medical students' mindsets in the domains of intelligence and talent. Qualitatively, we analysed focus group data using a grounded theory approach to develop a descriptive model.

Results

Survey results included 464 responses for quantitative analysis. Multivariable regression found that Year 3 students had more fixed mindsets for intelligence and talent (p < 0.05) compared with Year 1 students. Rural students reported a more mixed mindset for intelligence compared to urban students (p < 0.05). Qualitative analysis of focus group data yielded four major categories: beliefs about mindsets, conceptualization of mindsets, achievement motivation and source of mindset formation. We developed a Mindset Basis Model to depict connections among the factors students perceived to influence mindset formation—intra‐ and interindividual factors; contextual factors; and micro‐, meso‐ and macro‐system factors—and students' motivation regarding achievement.

Conclusion

The study describes medical students' mindsets for the domains of intelligence and talent and explores how they conceptualised these mindsets. The findings indicate that factors influencing mindsets do not operate in isolation but through intricate interactions among multilevel factors embedded within a context.
Effect of narrative photography to improve physical therapy students' learning outcomes when studying heart transplantation: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Marques‐Sule Elena , Sempere‐Rubio Nuria , Gómez‐Ibáñez Rebeca , Leyva‐Moral Juan Manuel , Mestres‐Soler Olga , Muñoz‐Gómez Elena
Published: August 2024

Physical therapy students must learn about heart transplantation. They need to know how to care for these patients' emotions and needs. The study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a narrative photography (NP) program and a traditional learning (TL) program in physical therapy students' knowledge, satisfaction, empathy, and moral sensitivity. A two‐armed assessor‐blinded randomized controlled trial was carried out. One hundred and seventeen physical therapy students participated in the study. They were divided into two groups: (i) NP group (n = 56) and (ii) TL group (n = 61). At the end of the program, NP group's knowledge increased when compared with the TL group (p = 0.02). 90.57% of the sample was very satisfied/satisfied with the NP method, and 88.68% felt that NP helped them to understand the importance of considering subjective realities. In conclusion, NP improved knowledge and satisfaction compared with the TL group. These results suggest that NP may be a useful method to improve the academic outcomes of physical therapy students in the heart transplantation field; thus, NP may be considered a teaching–learning methodology of choice in physical therapy students.
Vegetation dynamics 1946–2018 in an old‐growth conifer forest
Authors: Backéus Ingvar , Hytteborn Håkan , Rydin Håkan
Published: August 2024

We analysed ground vegetation in 250 plots in 2018 in the old‐growth Picea abies‐dominated forest Säby Västerskog, south‐east Sweden as a follow‐up of studies in 1946 and 1998 with the same layout of plots. The vegetation changes were not clearly directional: the species composition in 2018 was intermediate between that of 1946 and 1998, whereas in 1998 species richness was higher and with the unique presence of a number of species indicating small‐scale disturbances. Vaccinium myrtillus increased in cover since 1946 and Avenella flexuosa decreased. This goes against regional trends that have been attributed to nitrogen deposition. Regional changes are overshadowed by local dynamics.
The root microlandscape of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Mony Cendrine , Vannier Nathan , Burel Françoise , Ernoult Aude , Vandenkoornhuyse Philippe
Published: August 2024

Understanding the drivers of assemblages of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) is essential to leverage the benefits of AMF for plant growth and health. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are heterogeneously distributed in space even at small scale. We review the role of plant distribution in driving AMF assemblages (the passenger hypothesis), using a transposition of the conceptual framework of landscape ecology. Because rooting systems correspond to habitat patches with limited carrying capacity that differ in quality due to host‐preference effects, we suggest considering plant communities as mosaics of AMF microhabitats. We review how predictions from landscape ecology apply to plant community effects on AMF, and the existing evidence that tests these predictions. Although many studies have been conducted on the effect of plant compositional heterogeneity on AMF assemblages, they mostly focused on the effect of plant richness, while only a few investigated the effect of configurational heterogeneity, plant connectivity or plant community temporal dynamics. We propose key predictions and future prospects to fill these gaps. Considering plant communities as landscapes extends the passenger hypothesis by including a spatially explicit dimension and its associated ecological processes and may help understand and manipulate AMF assemblages at small spatial scales.
Plant antagonistic facilitation across environmental gradients: a soil‐resource ecosystem engineering model
Authors: Cabal Ciro , Maciel Gabriel A. , Martinez‐Garcia Ricardo
Published: August 2024

Theory questions the persistence of nonreciprocal interactions in which one plant has a positive net effect on a neighbor that, in return, has a negative net impact on its benefactor – a phenomenon known as antagonistic facilitation.

We develop a spatially explicit consumer‐resource model for belowground plant competition between ecosystem engineers, plants able to mine resources and make them available for any other plant in the community, and exploiters. We use the model to determine in what environmental conditions antagonistic facilitation via soil‐resource engineering emerges as an optimal strategy.

Antagonistic facilitation emerges in stressful environments where ecosystem engineers' self‐benefits from mining resources outweigh the competition with opportunistic neighbors. Among all potential causes of stress considered in the model, the key environmental parameter driving changes in the interaction between plants is the proportion of the resource that becomes readily available for plant consumption in the absence of any mining activity.

Our results align with theories of primary succession and the stress gradient hypothesis. However, we find that the total root biomass and its spatial allocation through the root system, often used to measure the sign of the interaction between plants, do not predict facilitation reliably.
Against Adoption‐Based Objections to Procreation
Authors: Hill Scott
Published: August 2024

Many philosophers and members of the public think it is wrong to procreate. If one wants children, it is permissible to adopt. But procreation is allegedly impermissible because there is some respect in which adoption is better than procreation. There are two prominent variants of such objections. First, we have a duty to help others. Adopting a child from a poor country satisfies that duty. But procreation does not. Second, adding another person to a wealthy nation through procreation contributes to climate change. But adopting does not. I show that such objections are unsound.
The Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act at 50: A mid‐life crisis
Authors: Joyce Philip
Published: August 2024

The Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act was passed 50 years ago to put the Congress on a more equal footing with the President. The law has controlled Presidential impoundments, but the budget process has gotten less timely. It has enabled the Congress to articulate a different fiscal path than the President, but the budget resolution has degenerated into a vehicle for political messaging. Its most significant results have been the use of reconciliation for major policy changes and the establishment and ascendency of the Congressional Budget Office as the main source of credible information on the federal budget.
Self‐enforcing path dependent trajectories? A comparison of the implementation of the EU energy packages in Germany and the Netherlands
Authors: Fink Simon , Ruffing Eva , Maschlanka Luisa , Lüken genannt Klaßen Hermann
Published: August 2024

Since the 1990s, the EU has attempted to create a common electricity market. However, EU legislators are unsatisfied by the results. We argue that differentiated implementation of directives over time creates path dependencies that entrench national differences. The actor constellation of parties and incumbent operators at the beginning of the liberalization path determines how well countries implement liberalizing directives. The implementation, in turn, changes the actor constellation for the next directive, increasing or decreasing the institutional power of incumbents. We illustrate our argument analyzing the implementation of the first three energy market packages in Germany and the Netherlands. Both countries had similar electricity markets at the beginning of market liberalization, but their actor constellation was slightly different. German implementation gradually strengthened vertically integrated utilities, while Dutch implementation dismantled these utilities through unbundling. These paths became self‐reinforcing, counteracting European harmonization efforts.
Oil rents shocks and corruption in Iran
Authors: Farzanegan Mohammad Reza , Zamani Reza
Published: August 2024

We investigate the response of the news‐based corruption reflection index to positive shocks in oil rents in Iran. Using annual data spanning from 1962 to 2019, we employ the vector autoregressive model and analyze generalized impulse responses. Our findings reveal a statistically significant and positive (increasing) response of corruption to positive oil rent shocks. The primary mechanisms through which this relationship operates encompass inflation, increased military expenditures, and the erosion of democratic institutions. Our results demonstrate robustness when subjected to alternative corruption measurements, and when considering the role of internal conflict. The outcomes remain consistent regardless of the variable order in the estimation process. Additionally, we offer context from Iran and expound on clientelism in public investment projects, providing insight into how oil rents may contribute to corruption.
A two‐layered, analytically‐tractable, atmospheric model applied to Earth, Mars, and Titan with sources
Authors: Yoerger Edward J. , Puri Ashok
Published: August 2024

This work utilizes an analytic expression for a model of acoustic propagation in a two‐layered, inhomogeneous atmosphere developed by the authors. The model is used to study the atmospheres of Earth, Mars, and Titan. In particular, vertical wave propagation in these atmospheres is studied. The effect(s) of a two‐layered, inhomogeneous atmosphere on vertical, acoustic propagation due to a time‐harmonic, point source are examined. An adiabatic atmosphere is used for the bottom layer (troposphere) and an isothermal one for the top (stratosphere). The derived, analytic solution is expressed in terms of the acoustic pressure fluctuations. For the adiabatic layers, the solutions satisfy Bessel's equation for orders of , and for Earth, Mars, and Titan, respectively. The Bessel function's argument is , where and are dimensionless frequency and height, respectively. For the isothermal layer, the solution represents a damped, harmonic oscillator with a cutoff value of . Only values greater than are considered. The analysis and results are reported for combinations of single‐ and double‐layer atmospheres in the presence of a source on given boundaries. Acoustic propagation and transmission loss results are shown and discussed for all three planetary bodies: Earth, Mars, and Titan.
Approximations of the Helmholtz equation with variable wave number in one dimension
Authors: Mitsoudis Dimitrios A. , Plexousakis Michael , Makrakis George N. , Makridakis Charalambos
Published: August 2024

This work is devoted to the numerical solution of the Helmholtz equation with variable wave number and including a point source in appropriately truncated infinite domains. Motivated by a two‐dimensional model, we formulate a simplified one‐dimensional model. We study its well posedness via wave number explicit stability estimates and prove convergence of the finite element approximations. As a proof of concept, we present the outcome of some numerical experiments for various wave number configurations. Our experiments indicate that the introduction of the artificial boundary near the source and the associated boundary condition lead to an efficient model that accurately captures the wave propagation features.
Association of partial infections with the risk of psoriasis: A two‐sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lu Minghui , Gao Changyong , Zhang Runtian , Yuan Lingling , Chen Xi , Zhang Boping
Published: August 2024

Background

As a common chronic recurrent inflammatory skin disease, psoriasis is characterized by erythema and scaly skin lesions, with infection as an integral part of the pathogenesis of many diseases. Many previous cases reported the impact of psoriasis on infection. However, the existing research fails to completely clarify the infection factors associated with the potential of these diseases and causality.

Materials and methods

Thirteen kinds of pathogens and their immune responses and psoriasis in the phenotype of 46 species of SNPs data were respectively obtained from the GWAS catalog database and the UK biobank database. With the help of R software, three methods of inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median (WME), and MR‐Egger regression were used to analyze the causality of the dataset.

Results

According to the results of IVW analysis, there is a causal relationship between anti‐Epstein Barr virus antibody and psoriasis (OR: 1.003, 95% CI: 1.001∼1.006, P = 0.046) with a positive correlation.

Conclusion

Based on the results of MR analysis, there is a causal relationship between psoriasis and EBV infection, which indicates that EBV infection can increase the risk or severity of psoriasis. Therefore, in clinical scenarios, patients afflicted with psoriasis should be prevented from contracting the infection and recurrence of EBV as well as symptoms of psoriasis. The underlying immunological mechanism also provides a new perspective for experimental research.
“Someone to talk to”: A qualitative study of oncology trainees' experience of mentorship around moral distress
Authors: Preti Beatrice T. B. , Wood Sarah
Published: August 2024

Background

Moral distress is an intrinsic part of healthcare, particularly prevalent in oncology practitioners. Previous studies have suggested mentorship may play a role in combatting moral distress; however, there is a lack of good evidence aimed at understanding trainees' experience with either mentorship or moral distress, including the intersection between the two.

Methods

We conducted a single‐centre study in the hermeneutic phenomenological approach at a Canadian academic cancer centre. Six semi‐structured interviews with senior oncology trainees were conducted and analysed according to the interpretive profiles hermeneutic phenomenological approach.

Findings/results

Key findings include the idea that trainees do find mentorship valuable and helpful in navigating moral distress, which is described as common and inevitable, with a number of triggers and factors identified. However, a mentorship relationship must involve mutual respect, understanding, and honesty in order to be valuable. Additionally, engaging in open, honest discussions with mentors, particularly more senior individuals, is seen as a risk–benefit balance by trainees; vertical mentors bring more wisdom and experience, but may also have a greater impact on a trainee's future.

Conclusion

This thought‐provoking study highlights mentorship as a potential method to combat the troubling phenomenon of moral distress in oncology trainees.
Assessment of Rotordynamic Characteristics for Two Types of Damper Seals Operating in a Steam Turbine
Authors: Li Zhigang , Zhang Zihan , Li Jun
Published: August 2024

Damper seals (such as pocket damper seal (PDS), hole-pattern/honeycomb damper seals) and swirl brakes have been commonly used for many years as a solution for the rotor vibration instability in multiple-stage centrifugal compressor. However, there are few literatures focusing on the application assessment of damper seals and swirl brakes in high-pressure steam turbines. This paper presents a comprehensive assessment and comparison on the rotordynamic characteristics of a staggered labyrinth seal (LABY), a fully partitioned pocket damper seal (FPDS), and a hole-pattern damper seal (HPS), used as the balance piston seal in a 150 MW 3000 rpm multistage single casing steam turbine. The staggered labyrinth seal is an original seal scheme where the steam turbine experienced strong subsynchronous rotordynamic instability, preventing full load operation of the machine. The fully partitioned pocket damper seal and the hole-pattern damper seal were designed (the same sealing clearance, inner diameter and axial length) to increase the rotor net damping and eliminate the subsynchronous vibration. The straight swirl brake device also was implemented at seal entrance as a solution scheme to reduce the swirl velocity and enhance the seal net damping capability at high inlet preswirl condition (inlet preswirl ratio is 0.5). Numerical results of seal rotordynamic force coefficients, cavity pressure, and swirl velocity developments were presented and discussed, using a proposed transient computational fluid dynamics (CFD)-based perturbation method based on the multiple-frequency elliptical-orbit rotor whirling model. Results show that although the HPS seal and the FPDS seal both produce the obviously larger effective damping and the similar lower crossover frequency than the LABY seal, from a rotordynamic view, the FPDS seal scheme with entrance swirl brake is better for the present steam turbine due to the relatively larger effective damping and smaller direct stiffness, as a replacement scheme of the original staggered labyrinth seal, to resolve the subsynchronous vibration instability and allow full load operation of the steam turbine.
No Impact of Anthropometric and Fitness Factors on Speed–Agility in Young Soccer Players: Is It a Cognitive Influence?
Authors: Giuriato Matteo , Carnevale Pellino Vittoria , Kawczyński Adam , Talpey Scott W. , Lovecchio Nicola
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Agility in young soccer players has long been associated with physical attributes like strength, speed, and power. The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between cognitive factors and agility performance in this unique population. Methods: 39 young soccer players age 13.56 (SD 0.58) years were assessed for leg-muscle function (jump tests) and maturation status (peak height velocity). The Y-Agility Test, which included decision making in players, was used to measure performance. Cognitive factors such as perceptual skills and decision making were evaluated with the Y-Agility Test. Results: The linear regression showed an absence of significance between the Y-Agility Test and drop-jump contact (P = .283), Y-Agility Test and drop-jump flight (P = .185), Y-Agility Test and squat jump (P = .868), and Y-Agility Test and countermovement jump (P = .310). The linear mixed-model analyses suggested a difference between early-average maturers (P = .009) and early-late maturers (P = .005) but did not show a difference between average-late subjects (P = 1.000). Drop-jump flight did not show a difference in maturation (early-average P = 1.000; early-late P = 1.000; average P = 1.000). Squat-jump performance did not demonstrate any significance (early-average P = .618; early-late P = 1.000; P = 1.000). Countermovement-jump performance did not show any significance (early-average P = 1.000; early-late P = 1.000; average-late P = .492). Finally, agility performance does not show any significance between maturation levels (early-average maturer P = .450; early-late P = 1.000; average-late P = .830). Conclusion: Agility in young soccer players appears to follow a nonlinear trajectory, with cognitive factors possibly playing a more significant role than previously thought.
The Determinants of Maximal Speed Adaptation During Preseason in Subelite Female Australian Rules Footballers
Authors: Wijekulasuriya Gyan A. , Canham Brendan , Pane Calvin , Dower Hannah , Larkin Paul
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Maximal speed is an important physical-fitness attribute for female Australian footballers. The effects of sprint training, maximal strength, and technical training have been reported in laboratory studies. However, no study has determined the combined effect and relative contribution of these training modalities on maximal speed adaptation in situ. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the training factors affecting maximal speed adaptation during a preseason in subelite female Australian Rules footballers. Methods: Maximal speed during field training, predicted 1-repetition maximum (1RM) for box squat and hip thrust, and sprint biomechanics were assessed during early and late preseason (∼9 wk apart) in 15 female subelite Australian Rules Football players (age 20 [3] y). On-field training volume and intensity (total distance, high-speed running, very-high-speed running, and maximal speed) were determined using a Global Positioning System. A multivariate regression model was used to determine the factors associated with changes in maximal speed across the preseason. Results: The preseason training program had a small effect on maximal speed and large to very large effects on strength and sprint biomechanics. The multivariate regression with the greatest fit (P < .001, R2 = .939) included change in estimated 1RM box squat (β = −0.63), total distance per week (β = −0.55), and change in hip projection (β = 0.16) as factors. Multivariate regression of biomechanical factors (P = .044, R2 = .717) and maximal strength factors (P = .003, R2 = .676) were also significant. Conclusion: The development of maximal speed across a preseason is dependent on (1) total distance per week, (2) maximal strength adaptation, and (3) sprint technique adaptation in female subelite Australian rules football players.