bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Staff engagement and perceptions of video games in public libraries in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Templeton Lisette , Goulding Anne
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate public library staff engagement and perceptions of video games and video game services.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative and qualitative data on staff video game experiences, perceptions and confidence were collected through an online questionnaire.

Findings

The results indicate an overall positive perception of video games in public libraries, with 87% of the respondents supporting video games in public libraries. Video game players appear to think more positively about video games and have more general knowledge about them than non-players. They also appeared to be more confident in delivering related services and were more likely to be running gaming-related events. It was concluded that staff attitudes towards video games are not a barrier to their inclusion in public libraries, as found in previous research.

Practical implications

Encouraging staff engagement with video games may improve their knowledge and confidence in delivering video game services, although further research is required to confirm this. There is a potentially underserved population of those aged 46–84 years, nearly half of whom play video games. Evaluation of this potentially underserved population is an interesting topic for future research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this was the first survey of public library staff views towards video games in Aotearoa New Zealand, and it updates previous research in light of developments in gaming, gaming technology and the increased focus on public libraries as providers of digital technology and sites of community engagement.
Environmentally responsible behaviour among the teachers: role of gratitude and perceived social responsibility
Authors: Nishma V.M. , Sia Surendra Kumar , Roy Shreyasi , Wilson M.J. Antony
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Based upon the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions, this study aims to assess the role of perceived social responsibility (PSR) in mediating the relationship between gratitude and environmentally responsible behaviour (ERB) among teachers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected, following a correlational design, from a total of 292 school teachers in Kerala state, India. In total, 256 data were taken for final analysis. Out of the total participants, 63.3% were female and the remaining 36.7% were male. Confirmatory factor analysis was carried out to verify the factor structure and discriminant as well as convergent validity of the study variables. The relationship between gratitude and ERB with mediating role of PSR was tested.

Findings

The mediation analysis output revealed that PSR fully mediates the effect of gratitude on ERB, and it is concluded from the findings of the study that ERB can be enhanced by humanizing the citizens to integrate social responsibility in their acts and promoting the significance of having positive emotions like gratitude to widen their thought–action repertoires.

Research limitations/implications

In line with the broaden-and-build theory, a positive state of mental faculty can be a prime facilitator to increase concern for green environments as an outcome of an expanded thought–action repertoire. The findings imply the importance of inculcating enduring personal resources like the sense of gratefulness as it weighs the effect of producing altruistic acts like ERB along with many other benefits associated with having a positive emotion which is obviously considered to be a fair contribution to serve social resources in the community.

Social implications

The study findings can be an inspiration for the formation of policies to encourage pro-environmental behaviour and to further expansion of policies like national education policy of India. As teachers being the facilitators of knowledge and wisdom, they are potential sources to inspire students to practice healthy behaviours, they can be better models by practicing ERB.

Originality/value

The authors have verified the application of broaden-and-build theory of positive emotion in the context of ERB along with identifying its relationship with gratitude and PSR.
Evaluating the factors that influence public sector involvement in Ghanaian public-private partnership (PPP) power projects
Authors: Kukah Augustine Senanu Komla , Owusu-Manu De-Graft , Badu Edward , Edwards David John , Asamoah Eric , Anafo Andrew , Kuutiero Dominic , Kukah Richmond Makafui Kofi
Published: May 2023

Purpose

In comparison to other countries, power generation in Sub-Sahara Africa is poor. Public–private partnership (PPP) model has become increasingly popular for addressing infrastructural challenges, especially in the power sector. The purpose of this study is to evaluate and classify the factors that influence public sector involvement in Ghanaian PPP power projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Using purposive and snowball sampling techniques, questionnaires were used to gather responses from experts in the PPP power sector in a two round Delphi survey. Analytical tools adopted were descriptive statistics, mean score ranking, Cronbach’s alpha and factor analysis.

Findings

The most significant factors that influence public sector involvement in PPP power projects were: achieving improved value for money; access to additional capital; increased certainty of projects; greater efficiency of project delivery services; and improved ability to deliver new infrastructure. From factor analysis, the four components were: value for money and efficiency; capital and skills; innovation and technology; and project delivery.

Originality/value

Government bodies in the power sector will benefit from the findings, as it would aid them develop policies that would strengthen regulatory structures as well as institutions.
Polymer presence in boundary layer flow and heat transfer of dusty fluid over a stretching surface
Authors: Athar Maria , Ahmad Adeel , Khan Yasir
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To explore the fusion of dust particles and of polymers in a viscous liquid is the main purpose of this article. Newtonian fluid as a base fluid is considered and the mutual presence of polymers and dusty bodies is investigated. It discusses the steady laminar flow and heat transportation of a polymeric dusty liquid induced by a uniformly heated, penetrable and stretchable surface inside the boundary layer.

Design/methodology/approach

The mathematical system incorporates separate equations of energy and momentum for dusty bodies and for fluid. The classical Oldroyd-B model is chosen for exploring polymer presence. For the fluid phase, this model adds another stress to the conservation law of momentum. Appropriate similarity variables are introduced to transform the system of partial differential equations (PDEs) into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The problem is solved by introducing a numerical iterative procedure which turned out to be fastly converging.

Findings

Expeditious changes inside the boundary layer cause polymers to deform. No changes outside the boundary layer are noticed on account of polymer stretching. The dependence of heat transfer rate and skin friction on the parameter of polymer concentration and Weissenberg number is analyzed and displayed graphically against interaction parameters for temperature and velocity, dust particles’ mass concentration, Eckert and Prandtl numbers. Combining effects of polymers and dust particles cause skin friction to decrease and heat transfer rate to increase. Increasing values of interaction parameter for velocity, dust particles’ mass concentration and Eckert number reduces the drag coefficient and local Nusselt number. On the other hand, the Prandtl number and interaction parameter of temperature magnify the heat flux at the wall.

Research limitations/implications

This article studies the infinite extensibility of polymers. FENE and FENE-P models can be used to investigate the polymer presence in dusty fluids in the future.

Originality/value

In this article, the authors’ aim is to study the combined presence of polymers and dusty bodies. Keeping the existing literature in view, this type of fusion is not studied yet. Polymer inclusion in a viscous dusty fluid is studied and the behavior of fluid flow and heat transportation is investigated within the boundary layer over a permeable linearly stretching sheet.
AltPrint: new filling and slicing process planning based on deposited material with geometry variation
Authors: Idogava Henrique Takashi , Couto Daniel Marcos Souza do , Santana Leonardo , Alves Jorge Lino , Silveira Zilda Castro
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to address the development and implementation of “AltPrint,” a slicing algorithm based on a new filling process planning from a variation in the deposited material geometry. AltPrint enables changes in the extruded material flow toward local variations in stiffness. The technical feasibility evaluation was conducted experimentally by fused filament fabrication (FFF) process of snap-fit subjected to a mechanical cyclical test.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on the estimation of the parameter E from the mathematical relationships among the variation of the material in the material flow, nozzle geometry and extrusion parameters. Calibration, validation and analysis of the printed specimens were divided into two moments, of which the first refers to the material responses (flexural and dynamic mechanical analysis) and the second involves the analysis of the printed components with localized flow properties (for estimating the response to cyclic loading). Finite element analysis assisted in the comparison of two snap-fit geometries, one traditional and one generated by AltPrint. Finally, three examples of compliant mechanisms were developed to demonstrate the potential of the algorithm in the generation of functional prototypes.

Findings

The contribution of AltPrint is the variable fill width integrated with the slicing software that varies the print parameters in different regions of the object. The alternative extrusion method based on material rate variation was conceived as an “open software” available in GitHub platform, hence, open manufacturing with initial focus on desktop 3D printer based on FFF. The slicing method provides deposited variable-width segments in an organized and replicable filling strategy, resulting in mechanical properties variations in specific regions of a part. It was implemented and evaluated experimentally and indicated potential applications in parts manufactured by the additive process based on extrusion, which requires local flexibilities.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new alternative method for application in an open additive manufacturing context, specifically for additive extrusion techniques that enable local variations in the material flow. Its potential for manufacturing functional parts, which require flexibility due to cyclic loading, was demonstrated by fabrication and experimental evaluations of parts made in acrylonitrile butadiene styrene filament. The changes proposed by AltPrint enable geometric modifications in the response of the printed parts. The proposed slicing and filling control of parameters is inserted in a context of design for additive manufacturing and shows great potential in the area of product design.
Drop and impact reliability investigation of BGA and LGA interconnects
Authors: Sang Tian , Gharaibeh Mohammad A. , Wentlent Luke , Wilcox James R. , Pitarresi James M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Because of growing demand for slim, thin and cheap handheld devices, reduced-volume solder interconnects like land grid array (LGA) are becoming attractive and popular choices over the traditional ball grid array (BGA) packages. This study aims to investigate the mechanical shock and impact reliability of various solder alloys and BGA/LGA interconnect configurations.

Design/methodology/approach

Therefore, this paper uses drop testing experiments and numerical finite element simulations to evaluate and compare the reliability performance of both LGA and BGA components when exposed to drop and impact loadings. Additionally, three common solder alloys, including 63Sn37Pb, SAC305 and Innolot, are discussed.

Findings

The results of this study showed that electronic packages’ drop and impact reliability is strongly driven by the solder configuration and the alloy type. Particularly, the combination of stiff solder alloy and shorter joint, LGA’s assembled with SAC305, results in highly improved drop reliability. Moreover, the BGA packages’ performance can be considerably enhanced by using ductile and compliant solder alloys, that is, 63Sn37Pb. Finally, this paper discussed the failure mode of the various solder configurations and used simulation results to explain the crack and failure situations.

Originality/value

In literature, there is a lack of published work on the drop and impact reliability evaluation and comparison of LGA and BGA solders. This paper provides quantitative analysis on the reliability of lead-based and lead-free solders when assembled with LGA and BGA interconnects.
High angiotensin I‐converting enzyme inhibitory activity, bioaccessibility and bioavailability of milk protein hydrolysate by commercial proteases formulated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa protease
Authors: Chang Chang , Liu Zhiping , Yan Qiaojuan , Zhang Peng , Jiang Zhengqiang
Published: May 2023

Milk protein hydrolysate was optimally prepared by Protamex and PaproA (MP‐PP) exhibiting excellent angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity (89.6%) at 0.5 mg/mL and protein recovery rate (79.0%). Meanwhile, MP‐PP was stable for acid–base and heat treatments, and even presented 80.5% of ACE inhibitory activity after handling in gastrointestinal fluids. However, transepithelial transportation via Caco‐2 cell monolayer lowered ACE inhibition of MP‐PP. Following the fractionation of MP‐PP, IESPPEI was identified as an outstanding ACE inhibitory peptide (IC50 of 6.4 μM), comparable with commercial VPP and IPP. Overall, MP‐PP and IESPPEI are potential functional ingredients to develop antihypertensive products.
Epistemic silences in settler‐colonial infrastructure governance literature
Authors: Clements Rebecca , Searle Glen , Alizadeh Tooran
Published: May 2023

The existing landscape of infrastructure governance discourses tends to focus on closing “governance gaps” commonly based on fractured and opaque neoliberal planning and delivery processes, privatisation and financialisation issues, and inequitable distribution and undemocratic decision‐making processes. These gaps represent a deeply troubling erosion of infrastructure’s capacity to serve public interests or confront crises of climate injustice. However, the literature rarely confronts the uncomfortable politics of decolonising infrastructure or acknowledges ongoing permutations of settler‐coloniality, implicating infrastructural framings of land, development, property, ownership, and decision‐making power. This paper reflects on the current state of infrastructure governance literature about ongoing settler‐colonial legacies in urban planning and development. Explaining some of the ways unceded Indigenous land has been exploited to facilitate settler state infrastructure development in major Australian cities, we then draw a line to the complicities of contemporary infrastructure governance. This foundation is considered using a systematic method to review infrastructure governance literature and reveal stark gaps in engagement with settler‐coloniality and the politics of decolonisation. In light of these silences, we reflect on disciplinary responsibilities to redress research practices and suggest two reflexive approaches centred on to truth‐telling and deep listening.
Intralesional methotrexate in the treatment of localized vitiligo: A pilot study
Authors: Elrewiny Emad M. , Shawky Ahmed , Mohamed Sameh Fawzy Fahmy , Ammar Amr Mohammad , Mansour Mofreh , Rageh Mahmoud A.
Published: May 2023

Background/Objectives

Vitiligo is an immune‐mediated skin disorder that targets epidermal melanocytes leading to the appearance of depigmented skin patches. Different treatment modalities have been reported with varied efficacy. We tried to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intralesional methotrexate in treating localized areas of vitiligo.

Methods

Thirty participants with localized patches of vitiligo were recruited. They were treated with intralesional injections of methotrexate every 2 weeks for a maximum of six sessions. At the end of the study, the degree of repigmentation was categorized into: excellent improvement (>75% repigmentation), good improvement (50%–75% repigmentation), fair improvement (25%–50% repigmentation) and poor improvement (<25% repigmentation).

Results

We included 7 males (23.3%) and 23 females (76.7%). Their mean age was 33.6 ± 8.6 years. The duration of the disease ranged from 1 to 22 years. Four patients had a family history of vitiligo. At the end of the study, there was a highly statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001) after treatment regarding repigmentation.

Conclusions

This study showed that intralesional methotrexate is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with localized vitiligo lesions. Further studies on a larger scale are needed to evaluate the long‐term effects of treatment and detect the ideal dose to be injected.
Effects of paediatric intensive care due to congenital heart defects on maternal mental health
Authors: Brandt J. B. , Golej J. , Irschik S. , Steiner A. , Voitl P. , Steiner I. , Höflich A.
Published: May 2023

Aim

Successful mother–child‐bonding is a fundamental step for a healthy development of the child. Different factors like postpartum depression can hinder the bonding process. This study aimed to investigate how intensive care treatment due to congenital heart diseases of the infant alters bonding and how mothers cope with the situation.

Methods

Validated questionnaires were used to analyse postpartum depression, mother–child bonding, stress factors and coping strategies for mothers at a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU; n = 38) and a group of mothers without known psychiatric disorders attending a babywell visit with their child (n = 91). Descriptive statistics and interaction models were calculated.

Results

The PICU group showed on average higher total scores on the postpartum bonding questionnaire indicating mother–child bonding impairment and a higher proportion of mothers with depression was observed (76% vs 11%). The model showed a significant interaction between effective coping strategies and mother infant bonding (p = 0.04). Ineffective coping had no effect on bonding or depression in the PICU group.

Conclusion

Mothers of children treated at an ICU due a congenital heart disease are at increased risk for the development of depression and difficulties in different aspects of postpartum bonding. Our results show that coping mechanisms might significantly influence postpartum bonding. Implementation of tailored support is needed to optimise maternal outcomes.
Letter: 1‐kestose, the smallest fructooligosaccharide component, protection for mild to moderate ulcerative colitis patients
Authors: Chen Peng , Chen Fuchao
Published: May 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Ikegami et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17387 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17443
Editorial: ondansetron for patients with IBS‐D and bowel‐predominant symptoms
Authors: Shah Eric D.
Published: May 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Gunn et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17426 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17496
Letter: eosinophilic duodenitis and increased intraepithelial lymphocytes in rumination syndrome – more evidence
Authors: Zand Irani Mudar , Eslick Guy D. , Brown Georgia , Talley Nicholas J.
Published: May 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Zand Irani et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16630
Letter: factors influencing discontinuation of aspirin in patients after gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Zhao Jian , Huang Kun , Hu Bowen
Published: May 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Li et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17278 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17524
Reduced loneliness mediates the effects of multiple group identifications on well‐being
Authors: van Dick Rolf , Frenzel Svenja B. , Erkens Valerie A. , Häusser Jan A. , Haslam S. Alexander , Mojzisch Andreas , Steffens Niklas K. , Junker Nina M.
Published: May 2023

Membership of multiple groups and identification with those groups have been found to be positively related to individuals' health and well‐being. The present research sought to replicate this finding in two large, representative samples. Moreover, we sought to extend previous work by shedding light on the mechanisms mediating the effects of multiple group membership on positive health outcomes. Specifically, we proposed that the links between multiple group membership and positive health outcomes are mediated by reduced feelings of loneliness. In Study 1, a two‐wave survey of a German population, participants (N = 989) were asked about their identification with family, friends, neighbourhood, their country and humanity and 4 weeks later about feelings of loneliness, physical health and stress. As hypothesized, multiple identifications predicted lower stress. They were also associated with a marginal reduction in physical symptoms of poor health. Both relationships were mediated by the absence of loneliness. In Study 2, we conducted a cross‐sectional survey of German participants (N = 1635), which also included a sixth target of identification (Europe). Results replicated findings from Study 1 and also found similar relations associated with smaller (family, friends and neighbourhood) versus larger (country, Europe and Humanity) foci of identification.
Memories of structured input become increasingly distorted across development
Authors: Forest Tess Allegra , Abolghasem Zahra , Finn Amy S. , Schlichting Margaret L.
Published: May 2023

Trajectories of cognitive and neural development suggest that, despite early emergence, the ability to extract environmental patterns changes across childhood. Here, 5‐ to 9‐year‐olds and adults (N = 211, 110 females, in a large Canadian city) completed a memory test assessing what they remembered after watching a stream of shape triplets: the particular sequence in which the shapes occurred and/or their group‐level structure. After accounting for developmental improvements in overall memory, all ages remembered specific transitions, while memory for group membership was only observed in older children and adults (age by test‐type interaction η2 = .05). Thus, while young children form memories for specifics of structured experience, memory for derived associations is refined later—underscoring that adults and young children form different memories despite identical experience.
Structure and replicability of oral health‐related quality of life networks across patients with schizophrenia and the general community
Authors: Soares Gustavo Hermes , Bado Fernanda Maria Rovai , Lopes Alexandre Gomes , Biazevic Maria Gabriela Haye , Michel‐Crosato Edgard , Mialhe Fabio Luiz
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Schizophrenia is a disabling mental disorder associated with severe social dysfunction. Individuals with long‐term mental conditions have poorer Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) compared to the general population, but little is known about the measurement properties of OHRQoL instruments in this group of patients. This study aimed to examine the replicability of OHRQoL networks across samples of the general community (GC) and patients with schizophrenia (PWS).

Methods

Data were obtained from 603 community‐dwelling participants and 627 patients with schizophrenia. OHRQoL was measured using the short form of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14) questionnaire. A regularized partial correlation network was estimated for each sample. The number of dimensions and structural stability were assessed using Exploratory Graph Analysis. Global strength, edge weights and centrality estimates were compared. Network replicability was examined fitting the PWS data to the GC network structure.

Results

A single OHIP‐14 dimension was identified in the GC sample, whereas three dimensions were detected in the PWS sample. Structural consistency was perfect in the network of GC participants (1), and considerably low in at least two dimensions of the PWS network (0.28; 0.65; 0.16). A moderate correlation for node strength estimates was observed (τ: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.13, 0.72), although edge weights were not correlated (τ: 0.025; 95% CI: −0.11, 0.16). The fit of the PWS data to the GC network structure was deemed unacceptable.

Conclusion

Network models of OHRQoL did not replicate across samples of the general community and outpatients with schizophrenia. Prudent use of OHIP‐14 to compare measures of OHRQoL between groups with significant cognitive impartment and the general population is recommended.
Accuracy of dental implant placement with a robotic system in partially edentulous patients: A prospective, single‐arm clinical trial
Authors: Chen Wei , Al‐Taezi Khulood Ali , Chu Catherine Huihan , Shen Yue , Wu Jin , Cai Kunzhan , Chen Peng , Tang Chunbo
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This clinical study aimed to assess the accuracy of implant positions using a robotic system in partially edentulous patients.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐eight partially edentulous patients received 31 implants using the robotic system. Deviations between the planned and placed implants were calculated after surgery. The deviations were compared with objective performance goals (OPGs) from reported studies of fully guided static computer‐assisted implant surgery (CAIS) and dynamic CAIS. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to investigate the possible effects of the type and side of the arch, implant location, and implant dimensions on the deviations.

Results

The evaluation of 31 implants resulted in a mean angle deviation of 2.81 ± 1.13° (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.40–3.23°), while the 3D deviations at the implant shoulder and apex were 0.53 ± 0.23 mm (95% CI 0.45–0.62 mm) and 0.53 ± 0.24 mm (95% CI 0.44–0.61 mm), respectively. The upper limits of the 95% CI of 3D deviations were lower than those of the corresponding OPGs; however, the angle deviation was similar to that of the OPG. No statistically significant differences were found for the type and side of the arch, implant location, and implant dimensions to the deviations (p > .05).

Conclusions

The robotic system appears to achieve higher accuracy in implant positions than static and dynamic CAIS in partially edentulous patients (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2300067587).
Reparixin improves survival in critically ill and transplant patients: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Piersanti Gioia , Landoni Giovanni , Scquizzato Tommaso , Zangrillo Alberto , Piemonti Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

Background

Reparixin, an anti‐inflammatory drug that inhibits interleukin 8 (IL‐8) activity, might be life‐saving for high‐risk in‐hospital patients without increasing the risk of infection according to a previous meta‐analysis. With the increasing availability of randomised data the aim of the current study is to update previous findings by including any randomised control trials (RCTs) investigating the impact of reparixin on survival of critically ill or transplant patients.

Methods

A search strategy was developed to identify all RCTs involving reparixin in critically ill or transplant patients, with the exclusion of oncological patients. Two trained and independent authors conducted a thorough search of relevant databases. In addition, backward snowballing was employed. Language restrictions were not imposed.

Results

Our analysis included a total of nine studies involving 733 patients: 437 received reparixin and 296 the comparator. The reparixin group had a significantly lower all‐cause mortality rate compared to the control group [15/437 (3.4%) vs. 19/294 (6.4%), odds ratio = 0.47 (95% confidence interval 0.23–0.96), p‐value for effect .04, I2 = 22%, number needed to treat = 33]. These findings had the same direction and magnitude of effect across COVID‐19 patients (n = 325) and non‐COVID‐19 patients (n = 408). Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the rate of pneumonia, sepsis or non‐serious infections between the two groups.

Conclusions

The findings of this meta‐analysis indicate that reparixin, an anti‐inflammatory drug, improved survival in critically ill or transplant patients (including both COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 patients) without increasing the risk of infection.
Contrasting effects of acute heat shock on physiological and ecological performance of the fall armyworm
Authors: Mbande Abongile , Mutamiswa Reyard , Nyamukondiwa Casper , Chidawanyika Frank
Published: May 2023

Temperature is a critical factor that influences the behavior, physiology, and development of ectothermic organisms. This has become even more important as acute temperature stress associated with global climate change becomes the new norm. Using the invasive fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), we assessed its physiological and ecological responses following acute heat stress, synonymous to heat waves associated with recent climate change. Specifically, we measured the effects of short‐term exposure (for 2 h) to heat shock (at 32, 35, and 38 °C) on physiological responses, such as critical thermal minima (CTmin) and maxima (CTmax), and life‐history traits, such as reproductive success (fecundity and hatching success) and longevity, using virgin adults. Our results showed that prior acute heat shock compromised cold tolerance (CTmin) while enhancing heat tolerance (CTmax). In addition, heat shock reduced fecundity and hatching success and had dramatic effects on adult longevity. We conclude that acute heat stress associated with shifting environmental conditions may generally offset key physiological traits, affect reproduction and thus population persistence, and simultaneously have complex effects on adult lifespan.
Is phase locking crucial to improve hearing thresholds in tinnitus patients?
Authors: Schulze Holger , Tziridis Konstantin
Published: May 2023

Temporal processing of auditory data plays a crucial role in our proposed model of tinnitus development through stochastic resonance (SR). The model assumes a physiological mechanism optimizing auditory information transmission (as quantified by autocorrelation [AC] analysis) into the brain by adding the optimal amount of neuronal noise to otherwise subthreshold signals. We hypothesize that this takes place at the second synapse of the auditory pathway in the dorsal cochlear nucleus (DCN). We propose that after hearing loss, this neuronal noise is increased in the affected frequency band to improve hearing thresholds at the cost of upward propagation of this added noise, which finally may be perceived as tinnitus. We already showed the improvement of hearing thresholds in a large population of patients. Until now, we did not investigate the differences in hearing thresholds based on the biological constraints of early auditory temporal processing (phase locking) that is only possible up to frequencies of 5 kHz.

In this report, we grouped our patient database (N = 47,986) according to tinnitus pitch (TP) of below (TP<5kHz) or above (TP>5kHz) the 5 kHz limit or having no tinnitus (NT) and compared their mean audiograms. We found that TP<5kHz patients showed significantly better hearing thresholds than all other patient groups independent of age. No improvement was seen for TP>5kHz patients who even showed worse thresholds than NT patients for high frequencies.

These results are further evidence for our SR model of tinnitus development and the existence of AC analysis at the level of the DCN.
Galvanic vestibular stimulation activates the parietal and temporal cortex in humans: A functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) study
Authors: Hernández‐Román Joaquin , Montero‐Hernández Samuel , Vega Rosario , Orihuela‐Espina Felipe , Soto Enrique
Published: May 2023

Galvanic vestibular stimulation (GVS) helps stabilize subjects when balance and posture are compromised. This work aimed to define the cortical regions that GVS activates in normal subjects. We used functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to test the hypothesis that GVS activates similar cortical areas as a passive movement. We used transcranial current stimulation (cathode in the right mastoid process and anode in the FPz frontopolar point) of bipolar direct current (2 mA), false GVS (sham), vibration (neutral stimulus), and back and forth motion (positive control of vestibular movement) in 18 clinically healthy volunteers. Seventy‐two brain scans were performed, applying a crossover‐type experimental design. We measured the heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, head capacitance, and resistance before and after the experiment. The haemodynamic changes of the cerebral cortex were recorded with an arrangement of 26 channels in four regions to perform an ROI‐level analysis. The back‐and‐forth motion produced the most significant oxygenated haemoglobin (HbO2) increase. The response was similar for the GVS stimulus on the anterior and posterior parietal and right temporal regions. Sham and vibrational conditions did not produce significant changes ROI‐wise. The results indicate that GVS produces a cortical activation coherent with displacement percept.
Introduction: The plurality of Premodern German studies
Authors: Oehme Annegret , Jones Claire Taylor
Published: May 2023

What is German studies for a historical period in which Germany did not exist? This introduction to the special issue on Premodern German Studies advocates for a more inclusive definition of German and a more diverse practice of German studies. Between 800 and 1800, Central Europe was marked by shifting political boundaries, cultural‐religious plurality, linguistic transformations, imperial expansions and contractions, and missionary colonization with its accompanying forms of violence. The contributions in this volume challenge two related preconceptions: that relevant material from majority German‐speaking regions is exclusively in German; and that the regions from which material relevant for German studies originates are solely those where German was or is widely spoken. This issue also seeks to show how premodern studies can support the important work of scholar activists by examining the plurality of time periods, regions, cultures, languages, literatures, and identities encompassed by the expansive field of premodern German studies.
Association between locomotive syndrome and anemia among community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Encho Haruhi , Uchida Kazuaki , Nakamura Junya , Mizuta Sachiko , Akisue Toshihiro , Kowa Hisatomo , Ono Rei
Published: May 2023

Aim

To investigate the association between locomotive syndrome and anemia among community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted at specific health checkup centers in Japan between 2019 and 2020. We sent a questionnaire to older adults aged ≥65 years who participated in health checkups. A total of 2507 community‐dwelling older adults were included in this study (mean age = 72.3 years, 51.4% women). Locomotive syndrome was measured using a 25‐question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale with a score range of 0–100, and was defined as ≥16 points. Anemia was defined using World Health Organization criteria, as a hemoglobin concentration of <13.0 g/dL in men and <12.0 g/dL in women. Logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between locomotive syndrome and anemia, adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, depression symptoms, self‐reported comorbidities (cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, knee osteoarthritis, fractures, and spinal disease), hypertension, and renal function.

Results

Of all the participants, 11.6% had locomotive syndrome and 12.8% had anemia. Even after adjustment, a relationship between locomotive syndrome and anemia was observed (adjusted odds ratio = 1.9, 95% confidence interval = 1.3–2.7).

Conclusions

Community‐dwelling older adults with anemia had a significantly higher prevalence of locomotive syndrome than those without. This finding suggests that older adults with anemia are at risk of locomotive syndrome, and appropriate measures should be taken for prevention. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 426–429.
Internet development and the spatial optimization of regional productivity: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Peng , Cen Cong , Lin Xiaoyan
Published: May 2023

The rapid development of the Internet had a profound influence on the spatial distribution of economic output activities. On the basis of theoretical analysis, this study takes China's regions as research samples and construct a spatial econometric model to empirically analyze the impact of Internet development on regional productivity. The analysis reveals that the distribution of regional productivity in China had significant spatial correlation; regional productivity had positive spatial externalities; Internet development had significant promotion effects and positive spatial spillover effects to regional productivity, but the effects are heterogeneous in different subregions. The subregion analysis shows that the optimization effect of the Internet on regional productivity exhibits heterogeneity in different subregions. The threshold effect analysis reveals the increasing marginal effect of Internet development on regional productivity, and economic development and human capital supply are important factors restricting this marginal effect. Altogether, this study provides useful references on the positive effects of the Internet on regional productivity in the spatial dimension, and suggests that the policy makers can optimize the spatial distribution of regional productivity by promoting Internet access in various regions and narrowing the digital divide among regions.
Brand trust and engagement in social commerce
Authors: George Ajimon , Joseph Ajay , Abraham Mathew , Joseph Eric Thomas
Published: May 2023

With the surge in social media (SM) users around the world, the scope of social commerce (SC) in brand engagement is a prominent area of discussion. The present study empirically investigates the effect of social commerce construct (SCC), multi‐dimensional constructs of social presence theory (SPT) and consumer generated content (CGC) on brand trust and brand engagement in SC platforms. An online survey was conducted among 625 Indian consumers who had made more than one purchase using SC platforms in the previous 6 months. Structural equation modelling technique was employed for testing the hypotheses and conceptual model. The results suggest that each element of SCC, SPT and CGC positively contributes to brand trust and engagement. Further, the study provides insight into brand trust and brand engagement in SM, which prompts brand usage intention of the consumers. The insights can be used by managers to create long‐term customer relationship management action plans that emphasize brand trust and engagement.
Socio‐cultural factors influencing Indonesian nurses to stay working in Indonesia: A qualitative study
Authors: Hamid Achir Yani S , Permatasari Henny , Hargiana Giur , Rahmadiyah Dwi Cahya , Putri Arcellia Farosyah
Published: May 2023

Aim

To explore push, pull and retention factors affecting indonesian nurses decision to stay in the nursing profession.

Introduction

Identifying influencing factors that determine Indonesian nurses’ decisions to remain working in Indonesia gives a better understanding of nurses’ migration and therefore are necessry to explore.

Background

Studies examining nurse migration's push and pull factors have been carried out extensively. A study exploring factors that make nurses stay in their home countries, such as Indonesia needs to be conducted to provide different insights for related parties.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 52 managers and 181 nurses from hospitals and community health centres across four different regions in Indonesia, including DKI Jakarta, Lampung, South Kalimantan and West Nusa Tenggara. A purposive sampling method was used. The data were collected online (via Zoom) and offline through semi‐structured interviews and focus group discussions. A content analysis was performed. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) was followed.

Results

Five categories were developed: non‐financial support, sense of togetherness, following the husband, social image and powerlessness.

Discussion

Socio‐cultural factors influence Indonesian nurses to stay working in their country despite their economic and career development difficulties.

Conclusion

Socio‐cultural circumstances have become powerful factors affecting Indonesian nurses to stay working in Indonesia.

Implications for nursing practice and policy

There is a need for harmonisation of policies related to nursing migration between recipient and source countries. Moreover, policies should go beyond education, competency and credentialing regulations and include addressing social costs and needs, such as the possibility of migrating nurses’ families to the recipient countries.
Raman spectroscopic characterization of SiO2 phase transformation and Si substrate stress relevant to EBC performance
Authors: Lance Michael J. , Ridley Mackenzie J. , Kane Kenneth A. , Pint Bruce A.
Published: May 2023

To accurately model the long‐term durability of environmental barrier coatings (EBCs), a more complete understanding of the phase composition and transformations of the thermally grown oxide SiO2 (TGO) is desired. For the TGO formed during thermal cycling in steam, cristobalite formation and the subsequent β‐ to α‐cristobalite transformation has been identified as a potentially life‐limiting mechanism. In this study, Raman micro‐spectroscopy was used to quantify the cristobalite transformation on a polycrystalline Si coupon that was exposed to steam at 1350°C for 100 h. The phase transformation was mapped at 200–260°C on the TGO surface at different ramp rates using a heating stage and a micro‐positioning stage. The stress in the Si substrate was also determined using Raman spectroscopy by measuring the stress induced peak shift. The α→β phase transformation produced a 300–500 MPa tensile stress in the Si substrate, which compared well to the stress predicted from the volumetric expansion of the cristobalite. Quantifying the phase transformation and residual stress are critical tools in developing the next generation of high performance EBCs.
Oral‐motor function in older people: Exploring new dimensions of frailty
Authors: dos Santos Nogueira Dália Maria , de Matos Vieira Ana Isabel Correia , de Azevedo Reis Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

Background

Oral‐motor performance for speech and swallowing, and verbal fluency represent important domains that can determine frailty thresholds in older people.

Objectives

The study aims to explore the association between oral‐motor performance and verbal fluency to achieve a comprehensive measurement of the frailty phenotype.

Methods and Procedures

An exploratory and inferential cross‐sectional study was carried out in two nursing homes and 2 day care centres. The study comprised a sample of 95 individuals with a mean age of 83 years. The oral‐diadochokinesis test (ODDK), water swallow test (WST), time of mastication and swallowing (TOMASS), maximum tongue pressure, verbal fluency, physical phenotype and Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) were used as measurements variables.

Results

The comparison of mean values between the performance of observed and normative values for the target population was shown to be statistically significant for all the measurements and between the pre‐frail and frail.

Conclusions

The results of this study add to the growing body of evidence that oral‐motor function for speech and swallowing and verbal fluency are relevant to the diagnosis and management of the frailty condition in older people. The frailty syndrome is more than just the traditionally observed physical function, rather it is a multidimensional construct, where additional dimensions should be considered when evaluating frailty in clinical practice.
A temporal and spatial study of genetic structure in four species of bladed Bangiales (Rhodophyta) from the southeastern Pacific coast of Chile
Authors: Cid‐Alda Fernanda P. , Montecinos Alejandro E. , Guillemin Marie Laure
Published: May 2023

The coastline is a heterogeneous and highly dynamic environment influenced by abiotic and biotic variables affecting the temporal stability of genetic diversity and structure of marine organisms. The aim of this study was to determine how much the genetic structure of four species of marine Bangiales vary in time and space. Partial sequences of the cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene obtained from two Pyropia (Py. sp. CHJ and Py. orbicularis) and two Porphyra (P. mumfordii and P. sp. FIH) species were used to compare the effect of the 40° S/41° S biogeographic break (spatial‐regional scale) and the one of the Valdivia River discharges (spatial‐local scale) and determine their temporal stability. Four seasonal samplings were taken during 1 year at five sites, one site located in Melinka (Magallanes province) and four sites along the coast of Valdivia (Intermediate area), on both sides of the river mouth. Results showed a strong genetic spatial structure at regional scale (ΦST > 0.4) in Py. sp. CHJ, Py. orbicularis, and P. mumfordii, congruent with the 41° S/42° S biogeographic break. A potential barrier to gene flow, related to the Valdivia River discharge, was detected only in P. mumfordii. In P. sp. FIH, spatial genetic structure was not detected at any scale. The genetic structure of all four species is stable throughout the year. The potential effect of main currents and river discharge in limiting the transport of Bangiales spores are discussed. We propose that both a restricted propagule dispersal and the formation potential for persistent banks of microscopic stages could lead to a temporally stable spatial partitioning of genetic variation in bladed Bangiales.
Behavioural repertoire and the effect of male removal in a geotrupid beetle with parental care
Authors: Kiss J. , Rosa M. E. , Rácz R. , Kosztolányi A. , Barta Z.
Published: May 2023

Although biparental care is thought to be rare among insects, it has evolved independently numerous times resulting in diverse forms and varying levels of parental involvement. Several theoretical studies address potential factors promoting biparental care in beetles; however, empirical studies target principally only species of Scarabaeidae and Silphidae families. Here, we investigated the behavioural repertoire of the breeding pairs in two natural populations of a geotrupid beetle Lethrus apterus with parental care. Changes in female care as a response to the male's absence were also investigated by experimentally removing males from pairs. We found that males spend the majority of their time at the nest entrance, while females leave their nest and collect leaves at a significantly higher rate than males. We also showed that males often desert their nests and were usually replaced by new males in a short time. The desertion of males, however, does not seem to influence females' behaviour. These findings indicate that L. apterus may have a dynamic mating system with typically short‐term mate fidelity. Furthermore, our results have advanced our understanding of parental roles and nesting behaviour and contributed to the description of the distinct roles of parents in different phases of nesting events in L. apterus beetles.