bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibrating an adaptive cohesive zone model to simulate ductile crack propagation in structural steel under cyclic loading
Authors: Ziccarelli Andy , Kanvinde Amit , Deierlein Gregory
Published: November 2023

A procedure is outlined for calibrating a finite element model to simulate ductile cracking that employs a continuum damage criterion for ductile fracture initiation, termed the Stress Weighted Ductile Fracture Model, with an Adaptive Cohesive Zone method to simulate crack propagation. The proposed procedure is implemented and validated with data from 44 coupon‐scale tests of an A913 structural steel. The fracture model calibration is performed in two stages to determine parameters to evaluate: (1) the continuum damage mechanics criterion and (2) ductile crack initiation and propagation. Sensitivity of the calibration to parameter uncertainty is evaluated using synthetic data, followed by calibration and validation against experimental test data. The results indicate that the computational model can accurately simulate the overall response of experimental specimens, as well as other key aspects of observed behavior, including crack tunneling and crack face closure. Guidelines are provided for practical calibration of the model components.
Historical rhapsody: Citation and pseudo‐citation in Herder's Auch eine Philosophie der Geschichte zur Bildung der Menschheit
Authors: Ellison Tim
Published: November 2023

Studies of Johann Gottfried Herder's style have neglected to discuss his often baffling use of citations. This article seeks to remedy that absence with close attention to particularly rich examples of his citational practice in Auch eine Philosophie der Geschichte zur Bildung der Menschheit. The article suggests that Herder's use of citations creates a polyphonic text that reflects a polyphonic vision of history. Through close attention to select examples of Herder's citations and his manipulations of source material, the article demonstrates that Herder's citational practice may have more design than at first appears. Herder's text proves to be, at least in part, a rhapsodic stitching‐together of dispersed voices, gathered under a thematic of intra‐textual conversation.
Highland and lowland forest birds differ in their feather growth rates: a multispecies test in the southwestern Palaearctic
Authors: Hernández‐Téllez Irene , Aguirre José Ignacio , de la Hera Iván , Onrubia Alejandro , Tellería José Luis
Published: November 2023

Mountain birds face numerous challenges caused by altitude‐dependent environmental seasonality. Although elevation gradients may affect bird morphology, migration strategy and/or phenology of seasonal events (breeding and moulting), the life histories of highland compared with lowland birds have been little explored. In this study we compared the growth rate and mass of the tail feathers of six forest passerine species sampled at different elevations in the Iberian Peninsula (north) and the Maghreb (south) to assess potential differences in moult duration and feather quality between highland and lowland bird populations. As timing is crucial in seasonal environments, we also explored seasonal changes in temperature in the different study areas as a proxy for the duration of the optimal temporal windows available in summer for breeding and moulting. In addition, we compared wing configuration between highland and lowland populations, which could reflect differences in their migration strategy (migratory versus sedentary). The results showed that highland birds had less time available for breeding and moulting, longer and more concave wings, and faster feather growth rates than lowland populations, but we found no consistent patterns of variation in feather mass. These results suggest that selection might have favoured an accelerated moult and a more migratory behaviour in highland populations to cope with the reduction in the optimal temporal window as elevation increases. These patterns are similar to those observed in migratory populations moving along latitudinal gradients to breed in highly seasonal northern environments. We therefore hypothesize that elevational gradients at the southern limit of the Palaearctic could be an important driving force promoting variation in feather growth rate and wing configuration, and probably also other avian life‐history characteristics.
Scorpion assemblages in threatened Brazilian forests: The role of environmental factors in explaining beta‐diversity patterns
Authors: de Araujo Lira André Felipe , de Moura Geraldo Jorge Barbosa , Foerster Stênio Ítalo Araújo
Published: November 2023

A systematic understanding of the variation in species composition across time and space is urgently needed to protect threatened Brazilian forests.

This study has disentangled the among‐site variation in beta diversity among scorpion assemblages from the Caatinga and Atlantic Forest. We calculated the relative contribution of species replacement and differences in species richness in explaining the beta diversity in each forest, correlating such metrics with environmental characteristics. Finally, we estimated the relative site‐specific contribution to identify potential environmental drivers determining unique combinations of species composition.

The average among‐site dissimilarity in scorpion assemblages was higher in the Caatinga than that in the Atlantic Forest. The differences in species composition among Caatinga sites were mainly due to the spatial replacement of species. Differences in species richness at the local scale explained most of the variation in species composition among Atlantic Forest sites.

Environmental variables related to topography and land use partially explained the variation in among‐site dissimilarity, species replacement, differences in species richness and the ecological uniqueness in terms of species composition in the Caatinga. Environmental variables describing topography and land use were also important in explaining differences in species richness and local contributions to the beta diversity among Atlantic Forest sites. The relative site‐specific contribution to beta diversity was higher in Caatinga sites located in ecotonal zones and Atlantic Forest sites situated within conservation reserves.

Using scorpions as biological models, we have demonstrated that the species composition does not vary in a consistent way between different forest types.
Strategies that nurses working irregular night shifts use to improve sleep quality: A qualitative study among good and poor sleepers
Authors: Albakri Uthman , Smeets Nick , Kant IJmert , Meertens Ree
Published: November 2023

Aims

To assess the sleep strategies that nurses working irregular night shifts use to improve their sleep quality, and to compare the strategies of good and poor sleepers to determine whether the differences between the two groups could provide insights into possible effective strategies.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

The study was conducted from September 2019 to January 2020. Thirty‐four nurses working irregular night shifts participated; 17 were classified as good sleepers and 17 as poor sleepers based on the Sleep‐Wake Experience List, a validated self‐report instrument that measures one's sleep quality. Interviews were conducted using open questions to explore strategies around the night‐shift set. The interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Both groups described similar and different strategies that help them work and sleep well during and after night shifts. However, good sleepers mentioned a greater number of strategies and seemed to have thought about them more than poor sleepers. The most common strategies were having a clear structure, being organized—especially regarding sleeping time—maintaining a daily routine and adjusting their sleep environment.

Conclusion

Healthcare institutions should consider offering education and training programs aimed at empowering nurses who work irregular night shifts. These programs should provide nurses with various sleep strategies to enhance their sleep quality and overall well‐being.

Implications for the Profession

Nurses working irregular night shifts can possibly enhance their sleep quality by making personalized plans, for example, including a clear day structure, or an optimized sleep environment.

Impact

The study focused on how nurses working night shifts could possibly enhance their sleep quality. The findings highlight the importance of providing nurses with diverse sleep strategies to improve sleep quality, helping them to identify what works best for them and consistently apply these strategies.

Reporting Method

The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines were followed.

Patient or Public Contribution

Nurses working irregular night shifts at Maastricht University Medical Center in Maastricht, the Netherlands, who agreed to participate in the study, engaged in a discussion to assess the relevance of sleep quality to their work. They were also encouraged to share their perspectives during the interviews.
A nomogram‐based model to predict postoperative transient neurological dysfunctions in patients receiving acute type A aortic dissection surgery
Authors: Lin Xin‐fan , Xie Lin‐feng , He Jian , Xie Yu‐ling , Zhang Zhao‐feng , Chen Liang‐wan , Chen Mei‐fang
Published: November 2023

The purposes of this study were to develop and validate a nomogram for predicting postoperative transient neurological dysfunctions (TND) in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) who underwent modified triple‐branched stent graft implantation. This retrospective study developed a nomogram‐based model in a consecutive cohort of 146 patients. Patient characteristics, preoperative clinical indices, and operative data were analyzed. Univariate and multivariable analyses were applied to identify the most useful predictive variables for constructing the nomogram. Discrimination and the calibration of the model was evaluated through the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness‐of‐fit test and the decision curve analysis (DCA). At the same time, to identify and compare long‐term cumulative survival rate, Kaplan‐Meier survival curve was plotted. The incidence rate of postoperative TND observed in our cohort were 40.9%. Supra‐aortic dissection with or without thrombosis, creatinine >115 μmol and albumin <39.7 g/L, selective antegrade cerebral perfusion (SACP) time >7 min and total operation time >303 min, were confirmed as independent predictors that enhanced the likelihood of TND. Internal validation showed good discrimination of the model with under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.818 and good calibration (Hosmer–Lemeshow test, p > .05). DCA revealed that the nomogram was clinically useful. In the long‐term survival there was no significant difference between patients with or without TND history. The results showed the predict model based on readily available predictors has sufficient validity to identify TND risk in this population, that maybe useful for clinical decision‐making.
Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with the severity of liver fibrosis in patients after the Fontan operation
Authors: Sethasathien Saviga , Leemasawat Krit , Silvilairat Suchaya , Sittiwangkul Rekwan , Makonkawkeyoon Krit , Leerapun Apinya , Kongkarnka Sarawut , Inmutto Nakarin , Suksai Supanai , Apaijai Nattayaporn , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: November 2023

The gold standard for determining the severity of liver disease in Fontan patients is now liver biopsy. Since it is an invasive procedure, this study determined the possibility of applying mitochondrial function from isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as a non‐invasive indicator of liver fibrosis. Fontan patients (n = 37) without known liver disease were analysed cross‐sectionally. Patients were classified according to their histology using the METAVIR score as follows; F0/F1—no/mild fibrosis; F2—moderate fibrosis; and F3/F4—cirrhosis. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were assessed for mitochondrial activity and apoptosis. This study did not find any significant differences in cardiac function among the groups according to liver histology. Interestingly, our findings indicated a significant decrease in maximal respiration and spare respiratory capacity, in both the moderate (F2) and cirrhosis (F3/F4) groups compared with the group without significant fibrosis (F0/F1). Moreover, the cirrhosis group exhibited higher levels of apoptosis and lower levels of live cells, compared with both the moderate and no significant fibrosis groups. In conclusion, the degree of liver fibrosis in Fontan patients is strongly correlated with mitochondrial dysfunction in PBMCs. Mitochondrial function and apoptosis could potentially serve as novel markers for tracking the progression of liver fibrosis in these patients.
First description of larvae of Radulinopsis derzhavini Soldatov et Lindberg, 1930 (Scorpaeniformes: Psychrolutidae) with remarks on melanin colouration and relationships with related species
Authors: Epur Irina V. , Balanov Andrey A. , Shelekhov Vladimir A. , Turanov Sergey V.
Published: November 2023

The Derzhavin's sculpin (Radulinopsis derzhavini Soldatov et Lindberg, 1930) is a psychrolutids species that leads a cryptic life in coastal waters of the Japan Sea and the southern Okhotsk Sea. To date, larvae of this species have remained unknown; therefore, their biology is poorly understood. In the present study, the early developmental stages of R. derzhavini are described for the first time. In Peter the Great Bay, Japan Sea, this species is characterized by a spring spawning season (May) and a short pelagic period of larval development, usually from mid‐May to the last 10 days of June. Species identification of the described larvae was confirmed by incubation, rearing of larvae in captivity, and genotyping of a fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene. In addition, the development of pigmentation in larvae of this and related species was compared. Morphological analysis of both adults and larvae, together with complementary molecular genetics, confirms the previously obtained conclusions that the species of the genera Radulinopsis, Radulinus, Asemichthys, and Astrocottus form a natural group with monophyly by all types of data.
Changes in nutrient composition and diet quality in the first 6 months following bariatric surgery: An observational cohort study
Authors: Heusschen Laura , Berendsen Agnes A. M. , Balvers Michiel G. J. , Deden Laura N. , de Vries Jeanne H. M. , Hazebroek Eric J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Bariatric surgery (BS) may result in inadequate nutrient intake and poor diet quality, which can lead to nutritional complications. The present study aimed to evaluate changes in macro‐ and micronutrient composition and diet quality in the first 6 months following BS.

Methods

One hundred seven participants undergoing BS (Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass: n = 87, sleeve gastrectomy: n = 20) completed 3‐day food records before and 6 months after surgery. Changes in energy, macronutrient (carbohydrates, protein, fat, dietary fibre) and micronutrient intake (folate, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron) were evaluated. Diet quality was assessed by adherence to the Dutch food‐based dietary guidelines.

Results

After BS, we observed a significant decrease in intake of energy and all macro‐ and micronutrients (p < 0.01 for all), except for calcium (−39.0 ± 404.6 mg; p = 0.32). Overall, nutrient composition slightly changed with an increase in the relative intake of protein (+1.1 ± 4.3 energy percentage [en%]; p = 0.01) and mono‐ and disaccharides (+4.2 ± 6.4 en%; p < 0.001) post‐surgery. Consumption (median [Q1, Q3]) of vegetables (−50 [−120, 6] g day–1), wholegrain products (−38 [−81, −8] g day–1), liquid fats (−5 [−13, 2] g day–1), red meat (−3 [−30, 4] g day–1), processed meat (−32 [−55, 13] g day–1), sodium (−0.7 [−1.1, −0.2] g day–1) and unhealthy food choices (−2.4 [−5.0, 0.6] serves week–1) significantly decreased after BS (p < 0.01 for all).

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate both favourable and unfavourable changes in macro‐ and micronutrient composition and diet quality in the first 6 months following BS. Insight into these changes can improve dietary counselling in this population. Future research into underlying causes, consequences and long‐term changes in dietary intake is needed.
Critically appraising and utilising qualitative health research evidence in nutrition practice
Authors: Campbell Karen A. , Cammer Allison , Moisey Lesley L. , Orr Elizabeth , Whitmore Carly , Jack Susan M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Evidence‐based decision‐making and practice recommendations are commonly based on findings from quantitative studies or reviews. In the present study, we provide an overview of how to incorporate findings from qualitative research into the evidence‐based decision‐making process.

Methods

To illustrate how qualitative evidence can be integrated into the decision‐making process, we have outlined a clinical nutrition scenario and the process for sourcing credible evidence to inform decision‐making. A qualitative health research study was selected and appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skill Programme (CASP) appraisal tool for qualitative research. Based on the results of the critical appraisal, the study quality is considered, and we discuss whether the qualitative evidence can be applied to practice.

Results

A detailed description of how the qualitative findings can be used conceptually and instrumentally in practice to address the clinical nutrition scenario is provided.

Conclusions

Developing skills in critically appraising findings from qualitative studies will increase awareness and utilisation of this type of evidence in practice and policy, with a goal to ensure that patient/client perceptions are considered, leading to enhanced person‐centred care or systems.
Retrospective audit of a school‐based integrated health‐care model in a specialised school for children with externalising behaviour
Authors: Rungan Santuri , Montgomery Alicia , Smith‐Merry Jennifer , Liu Huei Ming , Eastwood John
Published: November 2023

Aim

Problematic externalising behaviours in adolescents are associated with high individual and societal burden. A school‐based multidisciplinary health clinic, Ngaramadhi Space (NS), was developed at Yudi Gunyi School, a specialised behavioural school in Sydney, Australia, to improve access to holistic health‐care and behavioural support. This evaluation aimed to describe the demographics, clinic attendance, health screening, recommendations made, and changes in Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) scores of students attending the clinic.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of students including changes in SDQ scores using descriptive statistics (26 July 2016 to 14 May 2019; n = 79).

Results

Prior to the assessment, few students engaged with a paediatrician or mental health professional (22.8%; 27.8%, respectively). Child protection services were involved with 76%. NS attendance was high (failure‐to‐attend = 7.6%; cancellations = 8.9%). New issues found at the assessment included: parental separation (31.6%); trauma history (27.8%); substance use (19%); emotional wellbeing concerns (16.5%), learning difficulties (12.7%), domestic violence (12.7%) and medical conditions (10.1%). SDQ teacher reports showed a significant decrease in total difficulties scores (M = 6.2, SD = 6.165, P < 0.05, eta squared = 1.013 (large effect)) and all subsets. No significant differences in parent and self‐reported SDQ.

Conclusions

Students with problematic externalising behaviour have unmet health and social needs. The NS school‐based integrated health‐care model offers a novel, convenient and innovative way to engage these students. This approach has high initial attendance rates with teacher‐reported SDQ results showing some behavioural improvement. Further qualitative studies are required.
Framing innovation success, failure, and transformation: A systematic literature review
Authors: Reynolds Orlagh , O'Dochartaigh Aideen , Secchi Enrico , Marshall Donna , Prothero Andrea
Published: November 2023

Framing is a powerful tool shaping innovation success, failure, and transformation. However, innovation framing is not recognized as a unified domain of research and the extant literature is theoretically fragmented across diverse fields. Inconsistencies in definition and operationalization of constructs stall theoretical advancement of innovation framing theory and practice. Importantly, an understanding of the underlying mechanisms enabling framing to mediate innovation outcomes has been missing. Using a systematic literature review (SLR), we integrate diverse theoretical perspectives. Stemming from this, we develop a unified conceptual framework of innovation framing. In so doing we make three vital contributions to the field. First, we develop a typology of construct categories of innovation framing, defining these framing concepts and identifying their theoretical basis. Next, we emphasize the importance of key mechanisms (sensemaking, interpretive flexibility, consensus) in explaining innovation outcomes. Our third contribution identifies innovation stage‐specific differences in the role of framing processes, frame types and characteristics, and the temporal elements of these. Finally, we discuss the implications of our research for innovation practitioners, while concluding with a detailed agenda for future innovation framing research.
Interactive effects of temperature and protein levels on the growth performance, proximate composition, digestive enzyme activity and serum biochemistry of Labeo rohita
Authors: Tahir Irum , Fatima Mahroze , Shah Syed Zakir Hussain , Khan Noor , Ali Wazir
Published: November 2023

The current study was performed to investigate the impact of different temperatures and protein levels on the growth performance, proximate composition and digestive and hepatic enzyme activities of Labeo rohita fingerlings. For this purpose, healthy fingerlings (average initial weight of 6.40 ± 0.02 g) were acclimatized for 15 days, then reared at three temperatures (25°C, 30°C and 35°C) and fed three levels of crude protein (25%, 30% and 35% crude protein (CP)) twice daily until satiation for 60 days. The results of the study revealed that the highest growth performance was observed in fish fed 35% protein and reared at 30°C. Similarly, fish reared at 35°C and 25°C water temperature showed comparatively better growth performance in fish fed with 35% protein. Furthermore, a significant enhancement in feed intake was observed with increasing culture temperature and increasing CP levels, but at 25°C, increasing CP levels significantly decreased the feed intake. Sligh variations were also observed in proximate composition in terms of moisture, CP, crude fat (CF) and ash contents in fish fed with different CP levels and reared at different temperatures. The hepatosomatic index and viscerosomatic index decreased significantly with increasing levels of protein and temperature. Amylase activities were significantly reduced with increasing culture temperature at each protein level. Increasing culture temperature did not affected the lipase activities. However, lipase activities were enhanced with increasing CP levels at 25°C and activities decreased with increasing CP levels at 30–35°C. Protease activity was enhanced with increasing temperature and CP levels. Significant increases were also observed in serum total proteins and liver functioning enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in response to increased temperature, and protein had a reciprocal effect. It is concluded that increasing the CP levels increased the growth performance independent of temperature. However, similar growth performance at 30 CP (30°C) and 35 CP (35°C) indicates that L. rohita requires more protein at higher temperature for optimum growth.
Substance use among rural adolescents with incarcerated parents: Evidence from a state‐wide sample
Authors: Muentner Luke , McLaughlin Katie K. , Shlafer Rebecca
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Incarceration rates are highest in rural communities, disproportionately exposing rural children to parental incarceration (PI). Substance use is a pressing public health issue—and a key driver of incarceration—in rural areas, yet limited research has examined PI as a social determinant of health for adolescent alcohol and drug use. This study links exposure to PI with rural adolescent substance use and examines the role of coresidence with parents in these associations.

Methods

Data come from the 2019 Minnesota Student Survey, including 18,820 rural adolescents. Respondents self‐reported experiences of PI (current, former, never), whether they lived with the parent at the time of incarceration, and past‐year alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine use.

Findings

Over 22% of rural adolescents experienced PI. In adjusted logistic regression models, current PI was associated with greater past‐year alcohol (aOR = 2.20), marijuana (aOR = 4.08), cocaine (aOR = 3.61), heroin (aOR = 4.96), and methamphetamine (aOR = 5.43) use compared to peers who never experienced PI. Current PI was also associated with greater counts of use. Associations between coresidence and substance use were largely nonsignificant.

Conclusions

The elevated risk for substance use in the context of rural PI and its adverse sequelae call for expanded prevention and intervention strategies that support adolescent health alongside targeted decarceration efforts in rural communities that reduce the number of families put in the potentially compromising situation of PI.
Effect of biofloc technology in Farfantepenaeus aztecus culture: The optimization of dietary protein level on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, non‐specific immune response, and intestinal microbiota
Authors: Genc Ercument , Kaya Dogukan , Genc Munevver Ayce , Keskin Emre , Yavuzcan Hijran , Guroy Derya , Gurler Ahmet , Yaras Koray Umut , Pipilos Atakan , Ozbek Berna Funda , Yilmaz Bilgenur Harmansa , Aktas Mevlut
Published: November 2023

In this study, a biofloc technology (BFT) based 90‐day feeding trial was performed to estimate the effects of four different dietary protein levels (290, 320, 350 and 380 g protein kg−1 diet; 29P, 32P, 35P, and 38P, respectively) on growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, non‐specific immune response, whole‐body proximate and fatty acid composition and intestinal microbiota of Farfantepenaeus aztecus. Final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate improved with protein levels up to 35P per kg of diet, below which decreased significantly. Significant differences were observed in total hemocyte count, acid phosphatase, respiratory burst, glutathione, alkaline phosphatase, and total antioxidant capacity indices of shrimp fed different dietary protein levels. Protease, lipase, and amylase activities of shrimp were also affected by dietary protein levels. Proteobacteria was the most abundant bacteria among the groups. Overall, this study revealed that using 35% dietary protein is optimal in F. aztecus culture under environmentally friendly BFT conditions. Furthermore, these results provide a theoretical basis for future research on the evaluation of functional ingredients in diet for more economical production of F. aztecus at optimal protein levels.
Seasonal abundance estimates of cetaceans in the southern Black Sea (Sinop), Türkiye
Authors: Özsandıkçı Uğur , Özdemir Süleyman
Published: November 2023

The availability of reliable information on the abundance and distribution of threatened species is fundamental to evaluating their conservation status and taking the necessary measures to implement effective management. The seasonal abundance and distribution of cetaceans in the Sinop region, one of the essential fishing areas of the Black Sea, were estimated with line‐transect data. Dedicated boat‐based visual observations were conducted in four seasons between May 2019 and March 2020. Average estimates of abundance in the region over all seasons were 1,058 individuals for Black Sea harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena relicta; CV = 19.25%, 95% CI[725, 1,542]), 188 individuals for Black Sea bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus ponticus; CV = 21.67%, 95% CI[123, 289]), and 311 individuals for Black Sea common dolphin (Delphinus delphis ponticus; CV = 16.77%, 95% CI[123, 427]). The highest estimates for all three species were obtained in the spring. Harbor porpoises and bottlenose dolphins were present in the study area throughout the year, while common dolphins left the region in winter. These findings offer valuable insights that can guide and inform future conservation strategies, aligning with national and international frameworks for the protection of these cetacean species.
The impact of explicit instruction in intercultural competence in the world language classroom
Authors: Aski Janice M. , Jiang Xinquan , Weintritt April D.
Published: November 2023

This article describes a research study of a three‐semester elementary Italian language curriculum at a large Midwestern research university that incorporates intercultural competence (IC) training through cognitive dissonance image analyses, conversations with native speakers, classroom discussion, and reflections to determine the impact of this curriculum on learners’ development of IC. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered over three semesters to assess students’ IC and identify insights into the developmental processes. Students’ development of IC was measured in pre‐ and posttests using the Intercultural Development Inventory. Students demonstrated positive growth in IC with 9‐point gains in developmental orientation scores (p < .001). Qualitative data from student interviews and reflections were analyzed using the VALUE rubric of the Association of American Colleges and Universities and illustrate that students increased awareness of cultural self and different others, applied openness and curiosity in intercultural interactions, and developed skills for empathy and perspective taking. While previous studies on language courses with no or limited intercultural learning content failed to prove effective in promoting IC growth, this study suggests that purposeful integration of IC materials and activities can promote intercultural development in elementary language learners.
Factors affecting iron absorption and the role of fortification in enhancing iron levels
Authors: Perera Dipun Nirmal , Palliyaguruge Chathurangi Lakshika , Eapasinghe Dasuni Dilkini , Liyanage Dilmi Maleesha , Seneviratne R. A. C. Haily , Demini S. M. D. , Jayasinghe J. A. S. M. , Faizan Mishal , Rajagopalan Umapriyatharshini , Galhena B. Prasanna , Hays Hasi , Senathilake Kanishka , Tennekoon Kamani H. , Samarakoon Sameera R.
Published: November 2023

Iron is an important micronutrient required for a number of biological processes including oxygen transport, cellular respiration, the synthesis of nucleic acids and the activity of key enzymes. The World Health Organization has recognised iron deficiency as the most common nutritional deficiency globally and as a major determinant of anaemia. Iron deficiency anaemia affects 40% of all children between the ages of 6 and 59 months, 37% of mothers who are pregnant and 30% of women between the ages of 15 and 49 years worldwide. Dietary iron exists in two main forms known as haem iron and non‐haem iron. Haem iron is obtained from animal sources such as meat and shows higher bioavailability than non‐haem iron, which can be obtained from both plant and animal sources. Different components in food can enhance or inhibit iron absorption from the diet. Components such as meat proteins and organic acids increase iron absorption, while phytate, calcium and polyphenols reduce iron absorption. Iron levels in the body are tightly regulated since both iron overload and iron deficiency can exert harmful effects on human health. Iron is stored mainly as haemoglobin and as iron bound to proteins such as ferritin and hemosiderin. Iron deficiency affects individuals at increased risk due to factors such as age, pregnancy, menstruation and various diseases. Different solutions for iron deficiency are applied at individual and community levels. Iron supplements and intravenous iron can be used to treat individuals with iron deficiency, while various types of iron‐fortified foods and biofortified crops can be employed for larger communities. Foods such as rice, flour and biscuits have been used to prepare fortified iron products. However, it is important to ensure the fortification process does not exert significant negative effects on organoleptic properties and the shelf life of the food product.
Effects of vincristine and monosodium glutamate on gastrointestinal motility and visceral sensitivity
Authors: López‐Tofiño Yolanda , de Sosa Francisca , Vera Gema , López‐Gómez Laura , Herradón Esperanza , López‐Miranda Visitación , Nurgali Kulmira , Uranga José A. , Abalo Raquel
Published: November 2023

Background

Chemotherapy‐induced adverse effects are an unresolved nightmare. In preclinical studies in rats, the food additive monosodium glutamate (MSG) improved some of the side effects caused by cisplatin, but its effects in other models of chemotherapy‐treated animals are not well known. The aim of this study was to test if MSG may improve some of the adverse effects induced by vincristine in rats.

Methods

Young male Wistar rats were exposed or not to MSG (4 g L−1) in drinking water from week 0 till 1 week after treatment (week 3). Rats received two cycles of five daily intraperitoneal (ip) injections (Monday to Friday, weeks 1 and 2) of either saline (2 mL kg−1) or vincristine (0.1 mg kg−1). Gastrointestinal motility was measured in vivo by radiological methods after the first and tenth ip administrations. On week 3, the threshold for mechanical somatic and colorectal sensitivity was recorded using Von Frey filaments applied to the paws and an intracolonic balloon, respectively. Finally, samples of the terminal ileum and distal colon were histologically evaluated in sections.

Key Results

Vincristine reduced body weight gain, food intake, and upper gastrointestinal transit, caused somatic (but not visceral) hypersensitivity and increased the thickness of the submucosal and muscle layers of the small intestine. In vincristine‐treated animals, MSG partially prevented gastrointestinal dysmotility and reduced visceral sensitivity but did not improve structural alterations of the small intestine.

Conclusions & Inferences

MSG could be used as an adjuvant to conventional treatments to improve some gastrointestinal dysfunctions caused by chemotherapy.
The transparency of mental vehicles
Authors: Murez Michael
Published: November 2023

Modes of presentation (MOPs) are often said to have to be transparent, usually in the sense that thinkers can know solely via introspection whether or not they are deploying the same one. While there has been much discussion of threats to transparency stemming from externalism, another threat to transparency has garnered less attention. This novel threat arises if MOPs are robust, as I argue they should be according to internalist views of MOPs which identify them with representational vehicles, such as mental files. I explain how identifying MOPs with vehicles/files threatens transparency, provide empirical illustrations, and critically examine some attempts to dispel the threat. Rather than abandoning transparency, I outline a way of reconciling it with a robust view of mental files which takes seriously the idea that they are targets for investigation in cognitive science. Transparency does not require introspective access, and rather than as an incontrovertible principle for individuating MOPs, we can view it more modestly, as an open empirical hypothesis.
Grass veins are leaky pipes: vessel widening in grass leaves explain variation in stomatal conductance and vessel diameter among species
Authors: Ocheltree Troy W. , Gleason Sean M.
Published: November 2023

The widening of xylem vessels from tip to base of trees is an adaptation to minimize the hydraulic resistance of a long pathway. Given that parallel veins of monocot leaves do not branch hierarchically, vessels should also widen basipetally but, in addition to minimizing resistance, should also account for water volume lost to transpiration since they supply water to the lamina along their lengths, that is ‘leakiness’.

We measured photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and vessel diameter at five locations along each leaf of five perennial grass species.

We found that the rate of conduit widening in grass leaves was larger than the widening exponent required to minimize pathlength resistance (0.35 vs c. 0.22). Furthermore, variation in the widening exponent among species was positively correlated with maximal stomatal conductance (r2 = 0.20) and net CO2 assimilation (r2 = 0.45).

These results suggest that faster rates of conduit widening (> 0.22) were associated with higher rates of water loss. Taken together, our results show that the widening exponent is linked to plant function in grass leaves and that natural selection has favored parallel vein networks that are constructed to meet transpiration requirements while minimizing hydraulic resistance within grass blades.
Synthesis and import of GDP‐l‐fucose into the Golgi affect plant–water relations
Authors: Waszczak Cezary , Yarmolinsky Dmitry , Leal Gavarrón Marina , Vahisalu Triin , Sierla Maija , Zamora Olena , Carter Ross , Puukko Tuomas , Sipari Nina , Lamminmäki Airi , Durner Jörg , Ernst Dieter , Winkler J. Barbro , Paulin Lars , Auvinen Petri , Fleming Andrew J. , Andersson Mats X. , Kollist Hannes , Kangasjärvi Jaakko
Published: November 2023

Land plants evolved multiple adaptations to restrict transpiration. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not sufficiently understood.

We used an ozone‐sensitivity forward genetics approach to identify Arabidopsis thaliana mutants impaired in gas exchange regulation.

High water loss from detached leaves and impaired decrease of leaf conductance in response to multiple stomata‐closing stimuli were identified in a mutant of MURUS1 (MUR1), an enzyme required for GDP‐l‐fucose biosynthesis. High water loss observed in mur1 was independent from stomatal movements and instead could be linked to metabolic defects. Plants defective in import of GDP‐l‐Fuc into the Golgi apparatus phenocopied the high water loss of mur1 mutants, linking this phenotype to Golgi‐localized fucosylation events. However, impaired fucosylation of xyloglucan, N‐linked glycans, and arabinogalactan proteins did not explain the aberrant water loss of mur1 mutants.

Partial reversion of mur1 water loss phenotype by borate supplementation and high water loss observed in boron uptake mutants link mur1 gas exchange phenotypes to pleiotropic consequences of l‐fucose and boron deficiency, which in turn affect mechanical and morphological properties of stomatal complexes and whole‐plant physiology. Our work emphasizes the impact of fucose metabolism and boron uptake on plant–water relations.
Auxin response factors fine‐tune lignin biosynthesis in response to mechanical bending in bamboo
Authors: Wang Wenjia , Li Yigang , Cai Changyang , Zhu Qiang
Published: November 2023

Lignin contributes to plant mechanical properties during bending loads. Meanwhile, phytohormone auxin controls various plant biological processes. However, the mechanism of auxin's role in bending‐induced lignin biosynthesis was unclear, especially in bamboo, celebrated for its excellent deformation stability.

Here, we reported that auxin response factors (ARF) 3 and ARF6 from Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis (Carrière) J. Houz) directly regulate lignin biosynthesis pathway genes, and affect lignin biosynthesis in bamboo.

Auxin and lignin exhibited asymmetric distribution patterns, and auxin promoted lignin biosynthesis in response to bending loads in bamboo. Employing transcriptomic and weighted gene co‐expression network analysis approach, we discovered that expression patterns of ARF3 and ARF6 strongly correlated with lignin biosynthesis genes. ARF3 and ARF6 directly bind to the promoter regions of 4‐coumarate: coenzyme A ligase (4CL3, 4CL7, and 4CL9) or caffeoyl‐CoA O‐methyltransferase (CCoAOMT2) genes, pivotal to lignin biosynthesis, and activate their expressions. Notably, the efficacy of this binding hinges on auxin levels. Alternation of the expressions of ARF3 and ARF6 substantially altered lignin accumulation in transgenic bamboo.

Collectively, our study shed light on bamboo lignification genetics. Auxin signaling could directly modulate lignin biosynthesis genes to impact plant lignin content.
When profitability meets conservation objectives through biodiversity offsets
Authors: Huber Celine , Doyen Luc , Ferrari Sylvie
Published: November 2023

Biodiversity offsets (BOs) are increasingly used as economic instruments to manage biodiversity and ecosystem services in the context of economic development. This study investigates the sustainability conditions of BOs. It focuses especially on both the timing and pricing of BOs in development‐offset projects. To address this issue, a minimal time control model is proposed, allowing a dynamic and multicriteria approach to be combined through both ecological and economic targets. We rely here on no net loss (NNL) and positive net present value (NPV) goals. In particular, we focus on an offset marginal price, called offset sustainability price (OSP), which equalizes the NNL and payback times. We prove analytically how this OSP pricing corresponds to a win–win solution in terms of ecological‐economic synergy. We also show that this OSP pricing can be very high compared to the project rate of return, particularly when the biodiversity loss is high. More globally, a static comparative analysis shows the extent to which the economic and biodiversity parameters impact the OSP. Finally, a numerical application related to mangroves and aquaculture in Madagascar illustrates the analytical findings. For this case study, we argue that the current BO price is underestimated.

Recommendations for Resource Managers:

The biodiversity recovery time to reach the no net loss (NNL) is not sufficiently taken into account in biodiversity offsets (BOs).

An offset sustainability price (OSP), reconciling the profitability and NNL times, is calculated, thus strengthening the developer‐pays principle of BOs.

The OSP is the minimal offset price such that the developer is financially beneficial only after the biodiversity recovery.

The OSP depends nonlinearly on both the developed surface area, the biodiversity initial states and dynamics as well as the economic parameters.

With low discount rates, a multiplier effect simplifies the calculation of the OSP.
Why TransformY? The Pitfalls of Transformed Regressions with a Mass at Zero*
Authors: Mullahy John , Norton Edward C.
Published: November 2023

Applied economists often transform a dependent variable that is non‐negative and skewed with the natural log transformation, the inverse hyperbolic sine transformation, or power function. We show that these transformations separate the zeros from the positives such that the estimated parameters are related to those from a scaled linear probability model. The retransformed marginal effects and elasticities are sensitive to changes in a shape parameter, ranging in magnitude between those of an untransformed least squares regression and those of a scaled linear probability model. Instead of transforming the dependent variable with non‐negative outcomes that includes zeros, we recommend using a non‐transformed dependent variable, such as a two‐part model, untransformed linear regression, or Poisson.
Effectiveness of probiotics compared to antibiotics to treat periodontal disease: Systematic review
Authors: Puzhankara Lakshmi , Banerjee Avishikta , Chopra Aditi , Venkitachalam Ramanarayanan , Kedlaya Madhurya N.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Probiotics are promising adjuncts to non‐surgical periodontal therapy (scaling and root planing (SRP)) for managing gingival and periodontal diseases. Probiotics are considered alternatives to antibiotics, especially with the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Hence, the present systematic review aims to generate evidence on the role of probiotics compared to antimicrobial agents for managing periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis).

Method

Six electronic databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, EBSCO, Cochrane, Clinical Trial Registry) were searched to collect studies comparing the effect of probiotics with antibiotics for periodontal disease. In total, 5530 articles were retrieved from all databases, of which 1891 were included for title and abstract screening. After screening, a total of ten clinical studies were included for data extraction and analysis. Probing pocket depth (PPD), Clinical attachment loss (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and microbial profile were recorded.

Results

Probiotics showed a significant reduction in the PPD and CAL compared to antibiotics. Antibiotics were more effective in reducing the PI and GI. A combination of probiotics and antibiotics superior compared to probiotics and antibiotics alone.

Conclusion

Probiotics can be used as an alternative to antibiotics, however, a combination is more effective for managing periodontal disease.
Social identification, identity integration and wellbeing in people who hear voices
Authors: Hogg Lorna I. , Smith Laura G. E. , Kurz Tim , Morrison Anthony P.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Hearing voices is associated with public stigma and this can influence readiness to identify as a voice hearer (VH) and psychological wellbeing. In this study, we investigated the relationships between a VH social identity, the integration of that identity with other important social identities and wellbeing.

Design

Cross‐sectional study, with a subset of longitudinal data across three time points.

Methods

People who self‐identified as voice hearers completed questionnaires (VH social identity, identity integration, wellbeing and perceptions of in‐group and out‐group empathy) at three time points, spaced at 3‐monthly intervals. The final sample comprised 182 participants at T1, 91 at T2 and 75 at T3. Hierarchical linear multiple regression analyses were used to test all hypotheses.

Results

The integration of a VH social identity was strongly associated with better psychological wellbeing at T1. Identity integration was also associated with static wellbeing scores at 6 months. Effects on wellbeing were not accounted for by either severity of voice‐hearing or paranoia. Whilst perceptions of in‐group empathy were associated with VH social identification, perceptions of outgroup empathy were important for identity integration.

Conclusions

Integrating a VH social identity with other important identities into a coherent sense of self is important for wellbeing in voice hearers; perceived in‐group and outgroup empathy are important in this process.