bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between family empowerment and fine motor, gross motor and cognitive skills in young children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Pierce Samuel R. , Skorup Julie , Paremski Athylia C. , Prosser Laura A.
Published: December 2022

Background

Family empowerment in families of young children with cerebral palsy (CP) is an important consideration because the first few years of life can be overwhelming for parents. The purpose of this research was to investigate the relationship between family empowerment, fine motor (FM), gross motor (GM) and cognitive development in children with CP who were under 3 years of age.

Methods

Forty‐one children with a mean age of 23.8 months participated in this study. The Family Empowerment Scale (FES) was completed by the participants' parents, whereas the FM, GM and cognitive subscales of the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Third edition (B‐III) were administered by physical therapists.

Results

Statistically significant positive correlations were found between the FES total and B‐III raw scores for FM, GM and cognitive subscales with coefficients ranging from 0.35 to 0.41. Significant relationships were also found between the FES Community subscale and the B‐III FM, GM and cognitive subscales.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence of a relationship between family empowerment and FM, GM and cognitive abilities in young children with CP, with a greater severity of impairments related to lower levels of caregiver empowerment.
Language‐specific phonological skills and the relationship with reading accuracy in Sylheti‐English sequential bilinguals
Authors: McCarthy Kathleen M. , Skoruppa Katrin
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the influence of first language (L1) phonology on second language (L2) early reading skills in Sylheti‐English bilinguals (N = 58; 48% girls; British Bangladeshi) and their monolingual‐English peers (N = 43; 45% girls; 96% White British, 4% multiethnic British) in a diaspora context. Language‐specific phonological awareness and nonword repetition were tested at two time points (6;2–7;8 years‐old). At Time 1, the bilinguals had lower productive accuracy for phonological sequences that violated their L1 phonology (d = .56; .84), and these skills accounted for a significant amount of variance in their reading accuracy. At Time 2, the language‐specific effects were no longer present. These findings highlight the importance of considering language structure in multilingual early literacy development.
Comprehensive analysis of immune cell infiltration and role of MSR1 expression in aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
Authors: Wang Xing , Wen Dingke , You Chao , Tao Chuanyuan , Ma Lu
Published: December 2022

Aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH), resulting from the rupture of intracranial aneurysms, can yield high mortality and disability. This study aimed to explore the immune infiltration of aneurysmal tissues and investigate a novel mechanism underlying aSAH. We downloaded datasets containing expression profiles of aneurysmal and normal arterial tissues from the online database. Then a comprehensive bioinformatic strategy was conducted to select the biomarkers of aneurysmal tissues. Two calculation algorithms were performed to identify the unique immune characteristics between aneurysmal tissues and normal arteries. Double immunofluorescence staining was used to investigate the role of pathway‐related proteins in the inflammatory process after aSAH. Six microarray datasets were integrated, and another RNA‐sequencing dataset was used as the validation dataset. Functional enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed genes indicated that immune‐related processes were closely related to the progression of aSAH. We then performed immune microenvironment infiltration analysis, and the results suggested macrophages were abnormally enriched in aneurysmal tissues. Core gene MSR1 was filtered through a comprehensive bioinformatic strategy. Our analysis suggested that MSR1 might be associated with macrophage activation and migration. Our study elucidated the impact of macrophage and MSR1 on aSAH progression. These findings were helpful in gaining insight into the immune heterogeneity of aneurysmal tissues and normal arteries, and in identifying patients who might benefit from immunotherapy.
Identifying the current and future status of freshwater connectivity corridors in the Amazon Basin
Authors: Caldas Bernardo , Thieme Michele L. , Shahbol Natalie , Coelho Maria E. , Grill Guenther , Van Damme Paul A. , Aranha Ricardo , Cañas Carlos , Fagundes Camila K. , Franco‐León Nicole , Herrera‐Collazos Edgar E. , Jézéquel Céline , Montoya Mariana , Mosquera‐Guerra Frederico , Oliveira‐da‐Costa Marcelo , Paschoalini Mariana , Petry Paulo , Oberdorff Thierry , Trujillo Fernando , Tedesco Pablo A. , de Brito Ribeiro Mauro César Lambert
Published: December 2022

The Amazon Basin features a vast network of healthy, free‐flowing rivers, which provides habitat for the most biodiverse freshwater fauna of any basin globally. However, existing and future infrastructure developments, including dams, threaten its integrity by diminishing river connectivity, altering flows, or changing sediment regimes, which can impact freshwater species. In this study, we assess critical rivers that need to be maintained as freshwater connectivity corridors (FCCs) for selective freshwater species—long‐distance migratory fishes and turtles (both with migrations >500 km) and river dolphins. We define FCCs as river stretches of uninterrupted river connectivity that provide important riverine and floodplain habitat for long‐distance migratory and other species and that maintain associated ecosystem functions. We assessed more than 340,000 km of river, beginning with an assessment of the connectivity status of all rivers and then combining river status with models of occurrence of key species to map where FCCs occur and how they could be affected under a scenario of proposed dams. We identified that in 2019, 16 of 26 very long (>1000 km) rivers are free‐flowing but only 9 would remain free‐flowing if all proposed dams are built. Among long and very long rivers (>500 km), 93 are considered FCCs. Under the future scenario, one‐fifth (18) of these long and very long FCCs—those that are of critical importance for long‐distance migrants and dolphins—would lose their FCC status, including the Amazon, the Negro, Marañón, Napo, Ucayali, Preto do Igapó Açu, Beni, and Uraricoera rivers. To avoid impacts of poorly sited infrastructure, we advocate for energy and water resources planning at the basin scale that evaluates alternative development options and limits development that will impact on FCCs. The results also highlight where corridors could be designated as protected from future fragmentation.
A phase 2a, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, three‐arm, parallel‐group study to assess the efficacy, safety, tolerability and pharmacodynamics of PF‐06835919 in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Saxena Aditi R. , Lyle Stephanie‐An , Khavandi Kaivan , Qiu Ruolun , Whitlock Mark , Esler William P. , Kim Albert M.
Published: December 2022

Aim

To assess the safety, tolerability and pharmacodynamics (PD) of the ketohexokinase inhibitor PF‐06835919 in participants with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and methods

This double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group study enrolled adults with NAFLD (≥ 8% whole liver fat [WLF] using MRI proton density fat fraction [MRI‐PDFF]) and T2D on stable doses of metformin (≥ 500 mg/day). Participants received once‐daily placebo, PF‐06835919 150 or 300 mg for 16 weeks. Randomization (1:1:1) was via an interactive response technology system. Endpoints included percentage change from baseline (CFB) in WLF using MRI‐PDFF (primary endpoint) and CFB in HbA1c (co‐primary endpoint) at 16 weeks, PD, safety and tolerability.

Results

Among 164 participants randomized and treated, 145 completed the treatment (placebo, n = 50; PF‐06835919 150 mg, n = 46; PF‐06835919 300 mg, n = 49). At week 16, least squares mean (90% confidence interval) percentage CFB in WLF was −5.26% (−12.86%, 2.99%), −17.05% (−24.01%, −9.46%) and −19.13% (−25.51%, −12.20%) in the placebo, PF‐06835919 150‐mg and 300‐mg groups, respectively (PF‐06835919 300‐mg group vs. placebo, P = .0288). Modest numerical reductions in HbA1c were observed in all groups that did not reach statistical significance. Treatment‐emergent adverse event incidence was similar across groups (40.7%, 45.5% and 32.7% in the placebo, PF‐06835919 150‐mg and 300‐mg groups, respectively), with no apparent dose‐related trend.

Conclusions

PF‐06835919 administration over 16 weeks was generally safe and well tolerated and resulted in reductions in WLF in participants with NAFLD and T2D.
Abernethy malformation with unusual cardiac malformation: Case report and literature review
Authors: Xu Liyuan , Zhang Hongju , Liu Guowen , Li Yunpeng , Li Di , Ma Ning
Published: December 2022

Abernethy malformation, also known as congenital extrahepatic shunt, is a rare anomaly, which is characterized by partial or complete diversion of the portal blood into the systemic venous circulation. The clinical manifestations of Abernethy malformation during childhood include neonatal cholestasis, failure to thrive, mental retardation, and other congenital defects. We report a case of Abernethy malformation Type II in a 9‐year‐old boy, whose left ventricle was slightly enlarged because of several major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs) but laboratory examinations were normal 5 years earlier. The characteristics of congenital heart disease in patients with Abernethy malformation are discussed. We propose that physicians should be aware of the possibility of Abernethy malformation in children with enlargement of the left ventricular due to systemic‐pulmonary collateral circulation.
Epilepsy in cerebral amyloid angiopathy: an observational retrospective study of a large population
Authors: Tabaee Damavandi Payam , Storti Benedetta , Fabin Natalia , Bianchi Elisa , Ferrarese Carlo , DiFrancesco Jacopo C.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a major cause of spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage in older adults. Epilepsy represents a possible sequela of the disease. To date, studies on epilepsy in CAA are lacking, and the few data available mainly focus on CAA‐related inflammation (CAA‐ri), the inflammatory form of the disease.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we consecutively recruited CAA patients observed over a time span of 10 years, collecting demographic, clinical, and instrumental data. Significant baseline characteristics were evaluated as potential risk factors for the development of epilepsy in the CAA population, and in the subgroups of CAA‐ri and CAA without inflammatory reaction (CAA‐nri). The effect of potential risk factors for epilepsy was measured as odds ratio with 95% confidence interval.

Results

Within 96 recruited CAA cases, 33 (34.4%) developed epilepsy during follow‐up (median = 13.5 months). The prevalent type of seizure was focal (81.3%); 12.1% of the epileptic patients presented status epilepticus, and 6.1% developed drug‐resistant epilepsy. Electroencephalographic traces revealed slow and epileptic discharge activity in the majority of epileptic patients, but also in those without epilepsy. The presence of focal or disseminated cortical superficial siderosis (cSS) was associated with an increased risk of epilepsy in the CAA‐nri group, and the association with CAA‐ri and epilepsy was present in the overall population.

Significance

Epilepsy is a common manifestation during the course of CAA, where CAA‐ri and cSS represent predisposing factors for the development of seizures. These data suggest the importance of a deep characterization of CAA patients, to better select those more prone to develop epilepsy.
Persistent alteration of the skin microbiome in patients with skin rash after receiving EGFR inhibitor treatment
Authors: Ashida Atsuko , Tomida Shuta , Iwabuchi Tokuro , Sato Yuki , Kiniwa Yukiko , Okuyama Ryuhei
Published: December 2022

The pathological mechanism responsible for EGFR inhibitor (EGFRI)‐induced skin rash remains unclear. Recent studies reveal associations between skin dysbiosis and skin inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to examine whether skin dysbiosis is associated with EGFRI‐induced skin rash. Bacterial swabs were taken from the forehead of 17 cancer patients at baseline and at several time points after EGFRIs initiation, as well as from 20 healthy controls. The skin microbiome was analysed using 16S rRNA sequencing. The severity of the skin rash was assessed using the rash grade. Skin surface parameters (pH, water capacitance, and sebum level) were also measured. Compared with baseline, the abundance of Cutibacterium acnes decreased in 13 of 15 cases, and that of Staphylococcus aureus, Corynebacterium spp., Staphylococcus epidermidis or Proteobacteria increased in 13 of 15 cases after EGFRIs initiation. Skin pH increased significantly in parallel with a decrease in water capacitance after EGFRI initiation. Also, the composition of the skin microbiome of patients with severe rash was significantly different from that of healthy controls. In addition, the skin dysbiosis did not return to baseline during EGFRIs treatment for >1 year. These longitudinal observations indicate that skin dysbiosis is associated with development of skin rash.
Reviving the unique potential of recreational fishers as environmental stewards of aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Shephard Samuel , List Charles J. , Arlinghaus Robert
Published: December 2022

Recreational anglers have been key players in aquatic conservation, but this role is increasingly obscured. Other environmental sectors are now more visible stakeholders engaged with biodiversity. Recreational fishing has relevant environmental and moral implications, but these can be resolved via improved governance and management. More difficult is replacing the stewardship capacity provided by anglers. When analysed against a novel environmental stewardship framework based on place and identity, care, knowledge and agency, we find that marginalizing anglers could diminish aquatic biodiversity conservation. This outcome is likely because excellence in recreational fishing involves habituation of skills and ethical imperatives associated with sustainable and responsible use of fish populations. These dimensions are probably not so pertinent and correspondingly less developed in other nature stakeholders. Importantly, catching and killing wild animals catapults anglers into a food web and associated ecological conscience that most other outdoor activities cannot generate. As a result, recreational fishing often engenders feelings of care and responsibility for aquatic systems that support personal well‐being, bridging the stewardship value‐action gap through development of local assessment, management and evaluative competencies and associated agency. Transdisciplinary cooperation with scientists, managers and policymakers can unleash the stewardship potential of recreational anglers and engage their capacity for the common good.
Narrativas segmentadoras e igualitarias en la práctica normativa de la OIT
Authors: HAHS Jenny , MÜCKENBERGER Ulrich
Published: December 2022

Al configurar la relación de trabajo a nivel internacional, la OIT reprodujo inicialmente la narrativa normativa occidental de la relación de trabajo típica. Cuando el Sur global y las mujeres ganaron voz, una narrativa igualitaria alternativa se opuso a la hegemonía de la relación de trabajo típica y generó una estratificación de narrativas. Desde el institucionalismo histórico y la teoría de la estructuración, los autores observan la trayectoria de estas narrativas y tratan de explicarlas por la evolución de la composición de la OIT y de la representación femenina en la Conferencia Internacional del Trabajo. De ello extraen una serie de conclusiones jurídico‐políticas.
Nurses’ safety‐related organisational challenges during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Shahmari Mehraban , Nayeri Nahid Dehghan , Palese Alvisa , Manookian Arpi
Published: December 2022

Aim

To explore nurses’ perspectives on and experiences of safety‐related organisational challenges during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak by Iranian nurses.

Background

In different clinical contexts, nurses face numerous organisational challenges threatening their safety because of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Introduction

Exploring nurses’ perceptions towards safety‐oriented organisational challenges might inform nurse managers, healthcare managers, educators and policymakers on the priorities that should be considered to increase organisations’ readiness and safety.

Methods

This qualitative descriptive study is reported according to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines. Through purposeful sampling, 19 participants were involved. The research data were collected from March to August 2021 by conducting semi‐structured interviews that were analysed through the content analysis approach.

Findings

Three organisation‐related safety challenges experienced were related to (1) human resource, (2) educational and (3) workforce protection issues.

Discussion

Nurses experienced several safety issues related to the complexity faced by the health care organisations during the pandemic, exacerbated by previous frailties of the nursing system.

Conclusion

The three challenges that emerged might be considered a priority in building pandemic plans, transforming the experiences of nurses as a source of learning for all, capitalising on their suggestions and rendering healthcare facilities ready to deal safely with future crises.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Adopting appropriate measures to decrease human resource issues and that related to education, and promoting workforce health protection, are both recommended to improve nurses’ work environment and satisfy their safety needs.
Selective removal of antibiotics over MgAl2O4/C3N4/YMnO3 photocatalysts: Performance prediction and mechanism insight
Authors: Li Maoyuan , Wang Shifa , Gao Huajing , Yin Zijuan , Chen Chaoli , Yang Hua , Fang Leiming , Angadi Veerabhadrappa Jagadeesha , Yi Zao , Li Dengfeng
Published: December 2022

A simple polyacrylamide gel method combined with low temperature sintering technology has been used to synthesize the C–O functional groups grafted MgAl2O4/C3N4/YMnO3 (MAO–CN–YMO) heterojunction photocatalysts with enhanced visible‐light‐induced photodegradation toward oxytetracycline hydrochloride (OTC‐HCl). A variety of characterization methods are used to gain insight into the phase purity, crystal structure, microstructure, functional group information, elemental composition, surface defect, light response capability, and photocatalytic activity of the as‐synthesized samples. The influences of the mass ratios of mCN/mYMO, mCN/mMAO, and mMAO/(mCN + mYMO) in CN–YMO, CN–MAO, and MAO–CN–YMO heterojunction photocatalysts on the photocatalytic activity for the degradation of OTC‐HCl was also discussed, and the optimal mass ratio of mMAO/(mCN + mYMO) is identified as 15 wt%. The photocatalytic experiments confirmed that the MAO–CN–YMO heterojunction photocatalysts had high selectivity for the degradation of antibiotics. The prediction of the photocatalytic activity of the MAO–CN–YMO heterojunction photocatalysts for the degradation of OTC‐HCl was made by a variety of intelligent algorithm models. The results of the whale optimization algorithm are highly consistent with the experimental results. Combined with the energy band theory and the characterization results of high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, the free radicals in the reaction solution preferentially attacked the –CH3, –NCH2, and –OH of OTC‐HCl during the degradation of OTC‐HCl by MAO–CN–YMO heterostructure photocatalysts, and then attack –C=O and –C=O–NH2, and finally perform ring‐opening reaction to degrade OTC‐HCl into nontoxic and harmless products of small molecules such as CO2, H2O, and NH4+. This work provides a new idea for the development of novel double p–n junction MAO–CN–YMO heterojunction photocatalysts for antibiotic degradation and the prediction of photocatalytic activity of multiple heterojunction photocatalysts by intelligent algorithms.
Rallying around the EU flag: Russia's invasion of Ukraine and attitudes toward European integration
Authors: Steiner Nils D. , Berlinschi Ruxanda , Farvaque Etienne , Fidrmuc Jan , Harms Philipp , Mihailov Alexander , Neugart Michael , Stanek Piotr
Published: December 2022

This article uses a survey amongst students at European universities to explore whether Russia's invasion of Ukraine has affected attitudes towards European integration. Some respondents completed the survey just before Russia's assault on 24 February 2022, and some did so just afterwards, thus delivering a quasi‐experimental design situation, which we exploit. Our results suggest that the ominous news about the Russian attack increased the participants' interest in EU politics, consolidated their attachment to the EU and made them more mindful and appreciative of the benefits of deeper European integration. In effect, the war so close to the EU Eastern border provoked a rally around the supranational EU flag, with convergence of public opinion towards shared European values.
Editorial: 'Safety in numbers'? Big data discovery strategies in neuro‐developmental science – contributions and caveats
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J.S.
Published: December 2022

In the last 10 years, we have seen a shift toward the use of big data hypothesis‐free discovery strategies in studies of neuro‐development and mental health. In this editorial, I discuss the reasons for their popularity, their potential contribution as well as some limitations and pitfalls. I conclude with a call for methodological pluralism where big data approaches are strategically integrated into cycles of hypothesis generation and testing.
Size-dependent colouration balances conspicuous aposematism and camouflage
Authors: Barnett James B. , Yeager Justin , McEwen Brendan L. , Kinley Isaac , Anderson Hannah M. , Guevara Jennifer
Published: December 2022

Colour is an important component of many different defensive strategies, but signal efficacy and detectability will also depend on the size of the coloured structures, and how pattern size interacts with the background. Consequently, size-dependent changes in colouration are common among many different species as juveniles and adults frequently use colour for different purposes in different environmental contexts. A widespread strategy in many species is switching from crypsis to conspicuous aposematic signalling as increasing body size can reduce the efficacy of camouflage, while other antipredator defences may strengthen. Curiously, despite being chemically defended, the gold-striped frog (Lithodytes lineatus, Leptodactylidae) appears to do the opposite, with bright yellow stripes found in smaller individuals, whereas larger frogs exhibit dull brown stripes. Here, we investigated whether size-dependent differences in colour support distinct defensive strategies. We first used visual modelling of potential predators to assess how colour contrast varied among frogs of different sizes. We found that contrast peaked in mid-sized individuals while the largest individuals had the least contrasting patterns. We then used two detection experiments with human participants to evaluate how colour and body size affected overall detectability. These experiments revealed that larger body sizes were easier to detect, but that the colours of smaller frogs were more detectable than those of larger frogs. Taken together our data support the hypothesis that the primary defensive strategy changes from conspicuous aposematism to camouflage with increasing size, implying size-dependent differences in the efficacy of defensive colouration. We discuss our data in relation to theories of size-dependent aposematism and evaluate the evidence for and against a possible size-dependent mimicry complex with sympatric poison frogs (Dendrobatidae).

Abstract

For chemically defended species, colouration evolves as a balance between the benefits of a salient and recognisable warning signal (aposematism) and the benefits of avoiding unnecessary attention from predators (camouflage). Detectability will depend on many factors, including colour, pattern, and body size. Here, we examined size-dependent colouration in the gold-striped frog (Lithodytes lineatus), where small frogs have bright blue-white stripes, mid-sized frogs have bright yellow stripes, and large frogs have dull-brown stripes. We found that the trade-off between aposematism and camouflage depends on both colour and body size, such that frogs of different sizes employ different defensive strategies.
Southward range extension and transboundary movements of reef manta rays Mobula alfredi along the east African coastline
Authors: Marshall Andrea D. , Flam Anna L , Cullain Nakia , Carpenter Michelle , Conradie Janneman , Venables Stephanie K
Published: December 2022

Opportunistic in‐water and aerial surveys in South Africa and the analysis of contributed citizen science data have extended the known range of reef manta rays Mobula alfredi along the eastern coast of Africa by 140 km (to Mdumbi Beach) and verified the first transboundary movements for the species. Additionally, six new long‐range dispersal records have provided evidence of connectivity with the M. alfredi population off the Inhambane coastline of Mozambique. Five of these records captured one‐way movements, the longest of which was an individual that travelled 505 km from Praia do Tofo to Sodwana Bay with 301 days between sightings. A single individual made a return trip between Závora, Mozambique and Sodwana Bay, South Africa (a total distance of ~870 km). These findings support the Convention on Migratory Species listing for the species, suggesting regional transboundary management units are warranted for this wide‐ranging elasmobranch.
Application of high‐pressure homogenization to improve physicochemical and antioxidant properties of almond hulls
Authors: Liu Juer , Huang Li , An Jun , Ma Yiwei , Cheng Yanling , Zhang Renchuan , Peng Peng , Wang Yuanpu , Addy Min , Chen Paul , Chen Chi , Liu Yuhuan , Huang Guangwei , Ruan Roger
Published: December 2022

Almond hull contains a high level of dietary fiber and antioxidants, yet is under‐utilized, primarily as livestock feed. The present work aimed to evaluate the physiochemical and functional properties of almond hull powders, processed by high‐pressure homogenization (HPH), and any changes to their antioxidant properties after HPH treatment. It was found that the HPH treatment reduced the mean particle size and created a porous structure of the almond hull powders after lyophilization (freeze drying); hence, a significant increase (p < 0.05) in water holding capacity and oil holding capacity after processing, resulted in a much‐improved emulsifying capability. Additionally, based on their physical properties, the chosen variety (Carmel/Monterey) of almond hull extracts produced using the HPH process, showed the highest (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl [DPPH]) radical‐scavenging capacity (119.11 ± 5.27 mg TE/g dw) and ferric reducing power (167.52 ± 10.55 mg TE/g dw, under 22,000 psi = 152 MPa), along with the highest total flavonoid content (as 107.36 ± 3.76 mg QE/g dw). Overall, the high‐pressure homogenization process has effectively improved the physicochemical and functional properties of almond hull powder.

Practical Applications

This green technology can effectively improve the water holding capacity, oil capacity, emulsifying capacity, as well as a potential process that can enhance the bioavailability and functionality of almond hull, and therefore this abundantly available byproduct can be converted to various value‐added ingredients and products such as emulsifier, clouding agent, nutritional supplement, and so on, in the huge interests of high‐quality, all‐natural, and healthy food market to date.
Determination and comparison of effective moisture diffusivity of carrot (core and cortex) during hot air drying
Authors: Zheng Zhaohui , Wei Shuo , Xie Weijun , Ren Liuyang , Fan Ben , Fu Hanyu , Yang Deyong
Published: December 2022

The moisture content and shrinkage of a sample are often ignored when determining its effective moisture diffusivity (EMD), which will result in a larger error in simulating the dynamic moisture diffusion process during drying. This work aimed to determine the EMDs of cortex and core in axial and radial directions considering the combined influence of moisture content and shrinkage of material. The drying and shrinkage characteristics of cortex and core were investigated under different hot air drying conditions, and the EMDs of the cortex and core in different drying stages were determined by the slope method considering the moisture content and shrinkage. The results showed that the EMDs were dependent on the carrot component rather than its directions. The EMDs of the core and cortex were different. It decreased slowly at the early drying stage, and decreased sharply at the later drying stage, and increased with the hot air temperature increasing. A third order polynomial relationship was established to correlate the EMDs with the moisture content and hot air temperature (R2 > 0.9460), and was verified by experiments. The maximum weighted absolute percentage error of the moisture content from simulation and experiment was only 6.11%, more accurate than that based on a constant effective moisture diffusivity (CEMD) for characterizing the intrinsic moisture diffusion in carrot during drying.

Practical applications

The EMD is an important parameter that characterizes intrinsic moisture diffusion in material and often used for modeling and calculation in food drying. The investigation methods developed in this study can be applied for determining the EMD of samples with shrinkage and variable moisture content. This study would be helpful for understanding the moisture transfer mechanism and optimizing operation conditions in carrot drying industry.
Who owns the land owns the wind? Land and citizenship in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Mexico
Authors: Torres Contreras Gerardo A.
Published: December 2022

Wind energy expansion across rural areas interacts with various interests at the local level, generating multiple reactions within communities. The Eólica del Sur wind farm implementation pathway in Mexico is a paragon of different positions vis‐à‐vis this industry after trying to install 132 wind turbines in other towns since 2006. This paper argues that there is a bias in studies of the politics of wind energy development in favour of oppositional voices, as opposed to groups that endorse wind energy expansion or that have stakes in the sector but neither support nor oppose wind projects per se. Based on fieldwork conducted over three years and semi‐structured interviews with Eólica del Sur stakeholders, the paper argues that different responses to wind energy are linked to contrasting ownership claims over land in the region and competing notions of the institutions that should legitimize these claims.
A peek behind the curtain: An integrative review of sexual harassment of nursing students on clinical placement
Authors: Smith Ella , Gullick Janice , Perez Dawn , Einboden Rochelle
Published: December 2022

Aims and Objectives

This integrative review aimed at systematically searching, analysing and synthesising multiple sources of evidence, to build a temporal understanding of nursing students' experiences of sexual harassment whilst on clinical placement, and to discuss the social context which enables this.

Background

Sexual harassment is highly prevalent in workplaces globally. Contemporary social understandings contextualise sexual harassment as a significant form of interpersonal violence. This is the first literature review to go beyond prevalence to synthesise the experience, implications and responses to sexual harassment encountered by student nurses on clinical placement.

Design

Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) integrative review methodology is used to structure a rigorous analysis and synthesis of evidence.

Methods

The PRISMA checklist supported sound reporting of the search strategy. Three databases (CINAHL, Scopus and Medline) were searched using a Boolean strategy. Papers with a significant focus on sexual harassment of nursing students in the clinical setting were included with no limitation on publication date. Papers were excluded if they were not published in English or were only published as abstracts.

Results

A synthesis of 26 papers demonstrated that sexual harassment has significant impacts on student nurses and the nursing profession. The intimacy of close body care, dominant social perceptions of nursing as women's work and the sexualisation of nurses increase student vulnerability to sexual harassment. Workplace power imbalances further exacerbate sexual harassment and shape responses to incidents.

Conclusions

Sexual harassment of nursing students is widespread and impacts student well‐being and learning.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Education is a strong protective factor and should target students, clinicians, clinical facilitators and academics. Attention to workplace culture, and processes that support disclosure and reporting, is also required to meaningfully address the sexual harassment of nursing students.
Predictors of cancer risky and preventive behaviors among the Nebraska farmers population
Authors: Watanabe‐Galloway Shinobu , Ratnapradipa Kendra , Hymel Emma , High Robin , Farazi Paraskevi A.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Previous studies on cancer risk among agricultural producers have focused on occupational exposures, with only a few studies examining behavioral factors. The aim of this study was to understand cancer risky and preventative behaviors among the large farming population in Nebraska.

Methods

A statewide cross‐sectional study of farmers in Nebraska aged 19 and older was conducted in 2019 (n = 782). Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with being up to date on cancer screening and with cancer risky and preventive behaviors.

Findings

The 93.68% of the Nebraska farmers population do not meet the daily recommended consumption of fruits and vegetables, and 70.14% reported regular alcohol consumption. The proportion of adults up to date on cancer screening was 79.57% for breast, 67.55% for cervical, 85.54% for colorectal, and 46.05% for skin cancers. Compared to women, men had a higher odds of heavy alcohol consumption (aOR 2.96, 95% CI 1.94–4.56) and ever smoking 100 or more cigarettes (aOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.03–2.73). The odds of being current with skin cancer screening was higher among those with higher incomes (aOR 1.77, 95% CI 1.06–3.01). Compared to men aged 50–64, the odds of being current with prostate cancer screening was higher among men aged 65–74 (aOR: 2.65, 95% CI 1.10–7.31) and 75 and older (aOR: 7.73, 95% CI 2.03–51.73).

Conclusions

Disparities in cancer screening and risk and preventive behaviors exist among farmers in Nebraska. The study highlights a need for continuing efforts to improve preventive cancer behaviors targeted to the farming population.
Long‐term variability of the coastal ocean stratification in the Gulf of Naples: Two decades of monitoring the marine ecosystem at the LTER–MC site, between land and open Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Kokoszka Florian , Le Roux Baptiste , Iudicone Daniele , Conversano Fabio , Ribera d'Alcalá Maurizio
Published: December 2022

We analyze 20 years (2001–2020) of temperature and salinity profiles at the LTER–MC coastal station in the Gulf of Naples, Mediterranean Sea. Surface and bottom layers show weak increases of temperature ( and , 2005–2019); water‐columns budgets (heat, freshwater) show pseudo‐periodic oscillations every 3 to 5 years, and weak linear trends. Seasonal minimum of salinity occurs 2 months later than the runoff peak, pointing to the importance of horizontal circulation in regulating the inshore–offshore exchanges and the residence time of freshwater. Inter‐annual variations of the mixed layer depth (MLD) indicate a shallowing ( during winter) and a shortened time span of the fully mixed water‐column. A visible decadal shift in the external forcings suggests an influence of winterly wind stress in 2010–2019, that prevailed over dominant buoyancy fluxes in 2001–2009. Changes are visible in the large‐scale indices of the North Atlantic and Western Mediterranean Oscillations and highlight the role of wind direction, offshore or inshore oriented, in disrupting the stratification driven by freshwater runoff. A Random Forest Regression confirms that role and quantifies the MLD's drivers importance. This allows for a reliable prediction of the stratification using external variables independent from the in‐situ observations.
Simplest Shapes First! But Let's Use Cognitive Science to Reconceive and Specify What “Simple” Means
Authors: Nurnberger‐Haag Julie , Thompson Clarissa A.
Published: December 2022

Children's informal and formal learning experiences with geometric shapes currently result in misconceptions that persist into adulthood. Here, we combine research from mathematics education as well as cognitive science pertaining to concepts, categories, and learning strategies to propose a more optimal progression that is better specified and justified than the current standards. To do so, we reframed what constitutes a “simple” shape from perceptual simplicity to simplicity of properties. Our Property‐Based Shape Sequence uses property‐based criteria of what makes shapes “simple” and progresses in a way that affords opportunities for learners to develop hierarchical conceptions of two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional shapes. Our goals are threefold: (1) recommend an optimal, mathematically‐correct shape learning sequence, (2) correct misconceptions that adults and children harbor about shapes, and (3) encourage cross‐disciplinary collaborations between mathematics education and psychology researchers to validate the proposed learning sequence.
Analysing cerebrospinal fluid with explainable deep learning: From diagnostics to insights
Authors: Schweizer Leonille , Seegerer Philipp , Kim Hee‐yeong , Saitenmacher René , Muench Amos , Barnick Liane , Osterloh Anja , Dittmayer Carsten , Jödicke Ruben , Pehl Debora , Reinhardt Annekathrin , Ruprecht Klemens , Stenzel Werner , Wefers Annika K. , Harter Patrick N. , Schüller Ulrich , Heppner Frank L. , Alber Maximilian , Müller Klaus‐Robert , Klauschen Frederick
Published: December 2022

Aim

Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is essential for diagnostic workup of patients with neurological diseases and includes differential cell typing. The current gold standard is based on microscopic examination by specialised technicians and neuropathologists, which is time‐consuming, labour‐intensive and subjective.

Methods

We, therefore, developed an image analysis approach based on expert annotations of 123,181 digitised CSF objects from 78 patients corresponding to 15 clinically relevant categories and trained a multiclass convolutional neural network (CNN).

Results

The CNN classified the 15 categories with high accuracy (mean AUC 97.3%). By using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI), we demonstrate that the CNN identified meaningful cellular substructures in CSF cells recapitulating human pattern recognition. Based on the evaluation of 511 cells selected from 12 different CSF samples, we validated the CNN by comparing it with seven board‐certified neuropathologists blinded for clinical information. Inter‐rater agreement between the CNN and the ground truth was non‐inferior (Krippendorff's alpha 0.79) compared with the agreement of seven human raters and the ground truth (mean Krippendorff's alpha 0.72, range 0.56–0.81). The CNN assigned the correct diagnostic label (inflammatory, haemorrhagic or neoplastic) in 10 out of 11 clinical samples, compared with 7–11 out of 11 by human raters.

Conclusions

Our approach provides the basis to overcome current limitations in automated cell classification for routine diagnostics and demonstrates how a visual explanation framework can connect machine decision‐making with cell properties and thus provide a novel versatile and quantitative method for investigating CSF manifestations of various neurological diseases.
Contrasting plant–soil–microbial feedbacks stabilize vegetation types and uncouple topsoil C and N stocks across a subarctic–alpine landscape
Authors: Castaño Carles , Hallin Sara , Egelkraut Dagmar , Lindahl Björn D. , Olofsson Johan , Clemmensen Karina Engelbrecht
Published: December 2022

Global vegetation regimes vary in belowground carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics. However, disentangling large‐scale climatic controls from the effects of intrinsic plant–soil–microbial feedbacks on belowground processes is challenging. In local gradients with similar pedo‐climatic conditions, effects of plant–microbial feedbacks may be isolated from large‐scale drivers.

Across a subarctic–alpine mosaic of historic grazing fields and surrounding heath and birch forest, we evaluated whether vegetation‐specific plant–microbial feedbacks involved contrasting N cycling characteristics and C and N stocks in the organic topsoil. We sequenced soil fungi, quantified functional genes within the inorganic N cycle, and measured 15N natural abundance.

In grassland soils, large N stocks and low C : N ratios associated with fungal saprotrophs, archaeal ammonia oxidizers, and bacteria capable of respiratory ammonification, indicating maintained inorganic N cycling a century after abandoned reindeer grazing. Toward forest and heath, increasing abundance of mycorrhizal fungi co‐occurred with transition to organic N cycling. However, ectomycorrhizal fungal decomposers correlated with small soil N and C stocks in forest, while root‐associated ascomycetes associated with small N but large C stocks in heath, uncoupling C and N storage across vegetation types.

We propose that contrasting, positive plant–microbial feedbacks stabilize vegetation trajectories, resulting in diverging soil C : N ratios at the landscape scale.
Different measures of niche and fitness differences tell different tales
Authors: Spaak Jurg W. , Ke Po‐Ju , Letten Andrew D. , De Laender Frederik
Published: December 2022

In modern coexistence theory, species coexistence can either arise via strong niche differences or weak fitness differences. Having a common currency for interpreting these mechanisms is essential for synthesizing knowledge across different studies and systems. However, several methods for quantifying niche and fitness differences exist, with little guidance on how and why these methods differ. Here, we first organize the available methods into three groups and review their differences from a conceptual point of view. Next, we apply four methods to quantify niche and fitness differences to one simulated and one empirical data set. We show that these methods do not only differ quantitatively, but affect how we interpret coexistence. Specifically, the different methods disagree on how resource supply rates (simulated data) or plant traits (empirical data) affect niche and fitness differences. We argue for a better theoretical understanding of what connects and sets apart different methods and more precise empirical measurements to foster appropriate method selection in coexistence theory.
When bureaucratic expertise comes under attack
Authors: Christensen Johan
Published: December 2022

Politicians need expertise to make public policies, and civil servants are principal and proximate providers of knowledge. Yet, what constitutes relevant knowledge and skills for bureaucrats is regularly contested—both by politicians and bureaucrats—and subject to change. How can we explain the processes of contestation and change in the expertise of policy bureaucracies? The article presents a theoretical framework for analyzing the politics of bureaucratic expertise. It proposes the concept of “expertise bargains” to capture the understanding between politicians and bureaucrats about the knowledge and skills of civil servants. Based on a transactional view of authority in bureaucratic politics, it argues that the terms of this expertise bargain are mutually defined by politicians and bureaucrats through a dynamic bargaining process. The analytical utility of the framework is demonstrated through a comparative‐historical analysis of contestation and change in bureaucratic expertise in the field of economic policy.
Mapping out the motivational basis of active representation as intergroup behavior
Authors: Kang Inkyu , Jilke Sebastian
Published: December 2022

Research on representative bureaucracy highlights the importance of translating passive into active representation. But what is the motivational basis that underlies this translation? Drawing on theories of social identity and intergroup behavior, we argue that bureaucrats belonging to underrepresented groups actively represent their own group because of a desire for positive distinctiveness. Two large‐scale conjoint experiments were performed using a unique sample of 1929 frontline investigators in the National Police in South Korea. Results show that investigator‐accuser gender match per se did not cause female investigators to prioritize female accusers of assault more than male investigators did. But once the assaults were manipulated to involve salient female disadvantages that lower women's status—for example, intimate partner violence—female accusers were more likely to be prioritized by female investigators. Our findings suggest that active representation is not unbounded partiality but a lever that guards against inequitable group disparities.
Insect exuviae as soil amendment affect flower reflectance and increase flower production and plant volatile emission
Authors: Barragán‐Fonseca Katherine Y. , Rusman Quint , Mertens Daan , Weldegergis Berhane T. , Peller Joseph , Polder Gerrit , van Loon Joop J. A. , Dicke Marcel
Published: December 2022

Soil composition and herbivory are two environmental factors that can affect plant traits including flower traits, thus potentially affecting plant–pollinator interactions. Importantly, soil composition and herbivory may interact in these effects, with consequences for plant fitness. We assessed the main effects of aboveground insect herbivory and soil amendment with exuviae of three different insect species on visual and olfactory traits ofBrassica nigraplants, including interactive effects. We combined various methodological approaches including gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, spectroscopy and machine learning to evaluate changes in flower morphology, colour and the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Soil amended with insect exuviae increased the total number of flowers per plant and VOC emission, whereas herbivory reduced petal area and VOC emission. Soil amendment and herbivory interacted in their effect on the floral reflectance spectrum of the base part of petals and the emission of 10 VOCs. These findings demonstrate the effects of insect exuviae as soil amendment on plant traits involved in reproduction, with a potential for enhanced reproductive success by increasing the strength of signals attracting pollinators and by mitigating the negative effects of herbivory.
Standardized exposure reporting in hypersensitivity pneumonitis: Making a silk purse from a sow's ear
Authors: Keir Gregory
Published: December 2022

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