bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Effects of Environmental Disturbances and Pesticide Mixtures on N-cycle related Soil Microbial Endpoints
Authors: Drocco Camilla , Coors Anja , Devers-Lamrani Marion , Martin-Laurent Fabrice , Rouard Nadine , Spor Aymé
Published: January 2024

Pesticides are widely used in conventional agriculture, either applied separately or in combination during the culture cycle. Due to their occurrence and persistence in soils, pesticide residues may have an impact on soil microbial communities and on supported ecosystem services. In this regard, the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) recently published a scientific opinion inciting to change pesticide risk assessment to better protect soil microbe-mediated processes. Climate change is another major concern for all living organisms including soil microbial community stability. Extreme climatic events, such as heat waves or heavy rainfalls, are becoming more and more frequent and their impact on soil microbial diversity and functions have already been demonstrated.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of temperature and humidity disturbances and pesticide active ingredients exposure on soil microbial community structure and functions. To this end, 250 soil microcosms were exposed to either a heat disturbance, a high humidity to mimic heavy rain, or no environmental disturbance. After three days of recovery, soil microcosms were treated with different active ingredients: clopyralid (herbicide), cypermethrin (insecticide) and pyraclostrobin (fungicide). The treatments were applied alone or in combination at 1x or 10x of the agronomical dose. We then evaluated the effects of the disturbances and the active ingredients on various microbial endpoints related to the diversity and the structure of soil microbial communities, and with a specific focus on microbial guilds involved in nitrification.

Overall, we demonstrated that the impact of environmental disturbances applied to soil microcosms, especially heat, on microbial endpoints was stronger than that of the active ingredients applied alone or in combinations. Compounded effects of environmental disturbances and active ingredients were detected, but sparsely and were of small scale for the chosen pesticides and applied doses.
3D imaging with superior resolution using Atacama Clear
Authors: Lacko Lauretta A. , Choi Tansol , de Silva Neranjan , Liu Ying , Jamies Edgar A. , Evans Todd , Hurtado Romulo
Published: January 2024

3-dimensional (3D) imaging is a powerful tool for interrogation of intact tissues, but can suffer from poor resolution due to impediments such as high tissue autofluorescence that remains a significant challenge in imaging cleared samples, including human clinical specimens. We developed Atacama Clear (ATC), a 3D imaging technology that increases signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) while simultaneously augmenting the capacity of tissue to be cleared. ATC exhibited SNRs that are up to 200% of widely used 3D imaging methods, potentiated all tested optical clearing solutions by up to 600%, decreased the time of optical clearing by up to a factor of 8, and enabled detection of poorly recognized antigens with a remarkable 4-fold increase in signal detection while using up to 10-fold lower antibody concentrations. Strikingly, ATC produced up to a 5x increase in transgenic fluorescent reporter protein signal detection, which is instead often diminished with currently used 3D imaging methods. This increased imaging efficacy enabled multiplex interrogation of tough fibrous tissue and specimens that naturally exhibit high levels of background noise, including the heart, kidney, and human biopsies. Indeed, ATC facilitated the use of AI based auto-segmentation with simple low tech stereo fluorescence microscopy, visualization of previously undocumented adjacent nephron segments that exhibit notoriously high autofluorescence, elements of the cardiac conduction system, and distinct human glomerular tissue layers, with cellular resolution. Taken together, these studies establish ATC as a platform for complex 3D imaging studies of basic and clinical specimens with superior resolution.
A new insight into the role of CART peptide in serotonergic function and anxiety
Authors: Balasubramanian Nagalakshmi , Wang Ruixiang , Ismail Shafa , Hartman Benjamin , Aboushaar Zeid , Marcinkiewcz Catherine A.
Published: January 2024

Cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) peptide has been established as a contributor to anxiogenic behavior. Genetic mutations in the CART gene are associated with anxiety and depression, and increased CART expression has been reported in suicide victims. Extensive research has focused on the role of CART peptide in mesolimbic neurocircuitry, but its involvement in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) and serotonin (5HT) system remains unexplored. Here we demonstrate that CART processes are proximal to 5HTDRNneurons and that microinjection of CART(55-102)peptide into the DRN has an anxiogenic effect in mice. Furthermore, central CART administration reduced cfos activation in 5HT neurons of the ventral DRN, which is a putative reward/anti-stress circuit. The inhibitory effect of CART on 5HTDRNneuronal function and local 5HT release is further demonstrated within vivofiber photometry coupled with calcium and 5HT biosensors and by mass spectrometry. Moreover, using Cre-dependent retrograde tracing, we observed DRN-projecting CART neurons in the Edinger Westphal nucleus (EW), nucleus accumbens (NAc), and various hypothalamic nuclei including the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH). Interestingly, based onex vivoelectrophysiological recordings, acute stress increased excitability in DRN-projecting CART neurons located in the EW, but not in the VMH or NAc. This suggests that the stress may promote anxiety-like behavior by activating the EWCART→5HTDRNcircuit that ultimately inhibits 5HT transmission. In sum, understanding the intricate dynamics of the CARTergic and 5HTergic systems proves crucial in addressing 5HT-related dysfunctions, providing invaluable insights into both health and disease.
Optogenetic generation of leader cells reveals a force-velocity relation for collective cell migration
Authors: Rossetti Leone , Grosser Steffen , Abenza Juan Francisco , Valon Léo , Roca-Cusachs Pere , Alert Ricard , Trepat Xavier
Published: January 2024

The front of migratory cellular clusters during development, wound healing and cancer invasion is typically populated with highly protrusive cells that are called leader cells. Leader cells are thought to physically pull and direct their cohort of followers, but how leaders and followers are mechanically organized to migrate collectively remains controversial. One possibility is that the autonomous local action of a leader cell is sufficient to drive migration of the group. Yet another possibility is that a global mechanical organization is required for the group to move cohesively. Here we show that the effectiveness of leader-follower organization is proportional to the asymmetry of traction and tension within the cellular cluster. By combining hydrogel micropatterning and optogenetic activation of Rac1, we locally generate highly protrusive leaders at the edge of minimal cell groups. We find that the induced leader can robustly drag one follower but is generally unable to direct larger groups. By measuring traction forces and tension propagation in groups of increasing size, we establish a quantitative relationship between group velocity and the asymmetry of the traction and tension profiles. We propose a model of the motile cluster as an active polar fluid that explains this force-velocity relationship in terms of asymmetries in the distribution of active tractions. Our results challenge the notion of autonomous leader cells by showing that collective cell migration requires a global mechanical organization within the cluster.
Development of differential sublaminar feedforward inhibitory circuits in CA1 hippocampus requiresSatb2
Authors: Hanson Meretta A. , Bibi Noor , Safa Alireza , Nagarajan Devipriyanka , Marshall Alec H. , Johantges Aidan C. , Wester Jason C.
Published: January 2024

Pyramidal cells (PCs) in CA1 hippocampus can be classified by their radial position as deep or superficial and organize into subtype-specific circuits necessary for differential information processing. Specifically, superficial PCs receive fewer inhibitory synapses from parvalbumin (PV)-expressing interneurons than deep PCs, resulting in weaker feedforward inhibition of input from CA3 Schaffer collaterals. Using mice, we investigated mechanisms underlying PC differentiation and the development of this inhibitory circuit motif. We found that expression of the transcriptional regulator SATB2 is biased towards superficial PCs during early postnatal development and necessary to suppress PV+ interneuron synapse formation. In the absence of SATB2, the number of PV+ interneuron synaptic puncta surrounding superficial PCs increases during development to match deep PCs. This results in equivalent inhibitory current strength observed in paired whole-cell recordings, and equivalent feedforward inhibition of Schaffer collateral input. Thus, SATB2 is necessary for superficial PC differentiation and biased feedforward inhibition in CA1.
Excitations in the higher-lattice gauge theory model for topological phases. III. The (3+1)-dimensional case
Authors: Huxford Joe , Simon Steven H.
Published: January 2024

In this, the third paper in our series describing the excitations of the higher-lattice gauge theory model for topological phases, we will examine the (3+1)-dimensional case in detail. We will explicitly construct the ribbon and membrane operators which create the topological excitations, and use these creation operators to find the pattern of condensation and confinement. We also use these operators to find the braiding relations of the excitations, and to construct charge measurement operators which project to states of definite topological charge.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Reconciling experimental and lattice data of
Zc(3900)
in a
J/ψπ−DD¯*
coupled-channel analysis
Authors: Yan Lin-Wan , Guo Zhi-Hui , Guo Feng-Kun , Yao De-Liang , Zhou Zhi-Yong
Published: January 2024

We study the J/ψπ and DD¯* coupled-channel system within a covariant framework. The J/ψπ and DD¯* invariant-mass distributions measured at 4.23 and 4.26 GeV by BESIII and the finite-volume energy levels from recent lattice QCD simulations are simultaneously fitted. Phase shifts and inelasticities of the J/ψπ and DD¯* scattering are predicted using the resulting amplitudes. Poles corresponding to the Zc(3900) state are found in the complex energy plane and their couplings with J/ψπ and DD¯* are determined. Our results indicate that the current lattice data do not preclude the existence of the Zc(3900) state.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Entanglement in massive Schwinger model at finite temperature and density
Authors: Grieninger Sebastian , Ikeda Kazuki , Kharzeev Dmitri E. , Zahed Ismail
Published: January 2024

We evaluate the entanglement entropy and entropic function of massive two dimensional quantum electrodynamics (Schwinger model) at finite temperature, density, and θ-angle. In the strong coupling regime, the entropic function is dominated by the boson mass for large spatial intervals, and reduces to the conformal field theory result for small spatial intervals. We also discuss the entanglement spectrum at finite temperature and a finite θ-angle.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Constraint characterization and degree of freedom counting in Lagrangian field theory
Authors: Errasti Díez Verónica , Maier Markus , Méndez-Zavaleta Julio A.
Published: January 2024

We present a Lagrangian approach to counting degrees of freedom in first-order field theories. The emphasis is on the systematic attainment of a complete set of constraints. In particular, we provide the first comprehensive procedure to ensure the functional independence of all constraints and discuss in detail the possible closures of the constraint algorithm. We argue degrees of freedom can but need not correspond to physical modes. The appendix comprises fully worked out, physically relevant examples of varying complexity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Photonic Flatband Resonances in Multiple Light Scattering
Authors: Hoang Thanh Xuan , Leykam Daniel , Kivshar Yuri
Published: January 2024

We introduce the concept of photonic flatband resonances and demonstrate it for an array of high-index dielectric particles. We employ the multiple Mie scattering theory and demonstrate that both short- and long-range interactions between the resonators are crucial for the emerging and their associated . By examining both near- and far-field characteristics, we uncover how the flatbands emerge due to a fine tuning of resonators’ radiation fields, and predict that hybridization of a flatband resonance with an electric hot spot can lead to giant values of the Purcell factor for the electric dipolar emitters.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Attosecond pulse isolation via intense laser field synthesis
Authors: Fitzpatrick C. R. J. , Kennedy J. P. , Dromey B. , Yeung M.
Published: January 2024

Precisely synthesized driving fields for relativistic laser-plasma interactions are shown, using particle in cell simulations, to allow for the absolute control over the temporal structure, and efficiency, of emitted attosecond pulse trains. Using a two-color driving field with an off-harmonic frequency as the second color exploits the sensitivity of the generation mechanism to the exact waveform seen by the plasma electrons. Fine control over the relative phase between the two colors, combined with the incommensurate nature of the driving field, breaks the symmetry of the input wave and allows for the selective enhancement of individual pulses in the resultant attosecond pulse train. Our results show that, by suppression of the surrounding pulses in the train, it is possible to use this technique to generate a single isolated attosecond pulse without compromising the resultant intensity as is common in other temporal gating schemes and how it can be combined with the noncollinear gating mechanism to further improve pulse isolation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Efficient Tensor Network Simulation of IBM’s Eagle Kicked Ising Experiment
Authors: Tindall Joseph , Fishman Matthew , Stoudenmire E. Miles , Sels Dries
Published: January 2024

We report an accurate and efficient classical simulation of a kicked Ising quantum system on the heavy hexagon lattice. A simulation of this system was recently performed on a 127-qubit quantum processor using noise-mitigation techniques to enhance accuracy [Y. Kim ., Nature, 618, 500–5 (2023)]. Here we show that, by adopting a tensor network approach that reflects the geometry of the lattice and is approximately contracted using belief propagation, we can perform a classical simulation that is significantly more accurate and precise than the results obtained from the quantum processor and many other classical methods. We quantify the treelike correlations of the wave function in order to explain the accuracy of our belief propagation-based approach. We also show how our method allows us to perform simulations of the system to long times in the thermodynamic limit, corresponding to a quantum computer with an infinite number of qubits. Our tensor network approach has broader applications for simulating the dynamics of quantum systems with treelike correlations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Does expanded disclosure in the audit report involve unintended consequences? Evidence from tax avoidance
Authors: Baatwah Saeed Rabea , Hussainey Khaled
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine how new regulation changes for the auditor’s report, so-called key audit matters (KAMs), influence tax avoidance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from firms listed on the Omani capital market over the period 2012–2019 and analyzes these data using pooled panel data regression with a robust standard error. It uses two common proxies for tax avoidance and two measures for the KAMs disclosure requirement.

Findings

This study finds a sharp decrease in the effective tax rate following the introduction of KAMs disclosure and the issuance of more KAMs in audit reports. This result is supported by several robustness checks. In an additional analysis, the authors observe interesting results, indicating that real earnings management mediates this association, while the audit committee plays a moderating role. The authors do not find a moderating effect of Big4 on this association, but find discrepancies within the Big4 firms in relation to this moderating effect.

Originality/value

The results of this study indicate that although the introduction of the KAMs disclosure requirement may have positive consequences, it may also lead to unintended negative consequences. This conclusion has not been comprehensively reported in literature.
How does abusive supervision differentiation affect employee work-family conflict? A moderated chain mediation model
Authors: Zhang Lanxia , Li Jia-Min , Mao Mengyu , Na Lijie
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the mechanism of abusive supervision differentiation on employee work-family conflict, and examine the chain mediating role of work-related rumination and organizational citizenship behavior/deviant workplace behavior, as well as the moderating role of work-family boundary segmentation preference.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors designed two studies: Study 1 was a scenario experiment with 120 Master of Business Administration students. To further explore this finding, the authors conducted a multiwave survey in Study 2 with 345 employees from various organizations.

Findings

The results of Study 1 showed that abusive supervision differentiation had a positive effect on work-related rumination, and work-related rumination mediated the relationship between differentiated abusive supervision and organizational citizenship behavior/deviant workplace behavior. The results of Study 2 not only confirmed the conclusions of Study 1 but also revealed that organizational citizenship behavior/deviant workplace behavior significantly affected work-family conflict. Abusive supervision differentiation had a positive effect on work-family conflict through work-related rumination and organizational citizenship behavior/deviant workplace behavior. In addition, work-family boundary segmentation preference negatively moderated the relationship between organizational citizenship behavior and work-family conflict.

Originality/value

First, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first paper to test the spillover effect of abusive supervision differentiation on the family domain through a chain mediation model. It extends the research on abusive supervision differentiation from the work domain to the family domain. Second, previous research has highlighted role conflict or role insufficiency as significant factors contributing to work-family conflict. However, this study suggests that abusive supervision differentiation from workplace managers can also trigger work-family conflict, providing a new perspective in the study of precursors to work-family conflict.
Exploring factors affecting communication in three-dimensional virtual worlds for second language learning: development and validation of a scale
Authors: Wiboolyasarin Kanokpan , Wiboolyasarin Watcharapol , Kamonsawad Ruedee , Tiranant Phornrat , Boonyakitanont Poomipat , Jinowat Nattawut
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The use of three-dimensional virtual worlds (3DVWs) is increasingly becoming a common practice in language education to provide digital learning environments for second-language (L2) communicative classes. This study aimed to identify the key factors underlying communication in 3DVWs that can improve the communication skills of L2 learners.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to validate the identified factors affecting communication in 3DVWs. A self-reported questionnaire with 47 items on a five-point Likert scale was administered to 513 pre-service teachers, teachers and lecturers in the field of language education.

Findings

The results of the EFA revealed four factors that contribute to communication in 3DVWs, namely learner motivation, interaction pattern, language development and learner autonomy. CFA results provided support for the updated model, with statistically significant Chi-square results (χ² (df = 83) = 181.049, p < 0.001) indicating a good fit between the model and the data.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that the four EFA-derived parameters are valid and can assist instructional designers and L2 instructors in creating 3DVWs that enhance L2 learners' communication abilities. This study provides valuable insights for educators, instructional designers and researchers in the field of language education and technology-enhanced learning.
Study on structure optimization and performance improvement of Y-shaped water seal of rock drill
Authors: Jia Chun Qiang , Wang Aofei , Yu Ling , Zong Li
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The rock drill’s drill tail experiences high-frequency fretting simultaneously in the rotational and axial directions. Due to the complex working characteristics and the low viscosity of the water medium, the pure water seal is susceptible to damage and failure. The purpose of this paper is to enhance the water seal’s performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The Y-shaped seal ring is modeled and simulated using orthogonal testing. Through analysis of the impact of various seal section parameters on sealing performance, the maximum contact stress and maximum Von Mises stress are selected as indicators of sealing effectiveness.

Findings

The maximum contact stress is proportional to lip thickness and chamfer length but inversely proportional to lip length. Meanwhile, the maximum Von Mises stress is directly influenced by lip depth and the included angle of the lip and drill tail but is inversely proportional to the lip thickness. The enhanced Y-shaped water seal sees reductions of 15% and 45% in maximum contact stress and maximum Von Mises stress, respectively.

Originality/value

This paper used analytical method and model that is helpful for design of the water seal’s structure in complex working characteristics and the low viscosity of the water medium.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-11-2023-0366/
Islamic finance as a driver for enhancing economic sustainability and innovation in the GCC
Authors: Alhammadi Salah
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role of Islamic finance in supporting sustainable economic growth, innovation and digital transformation in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Amid global challenges like the Russia–Ukraine conflict and COVID-19, the focus extends beyond the GCC’s oil dependency to explore how Islamic finance can enable technological advancements and foster a digitally innovative economy. The research aims to reveal the potential of Islamic finance in driving economic diversification, technological progress and sustainable development in the GCC.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a content analysis approach, this study critically examines the economic repercussions of recent global crises, shedding light on how Islamic finance contributes to socio-economic justice and the provision of social goods in the GCC. The research synthesises findings from various secondary sources, including academic literature, reports and industry standards, to analyse Islamic finance’s role from an ethical and strategic perspective within the GCC’s evolving economic landscape.

Findings

The findings reveal Islamic finance’s potential to significantly contribute to the GCC’s economic diversification and resilience against global economic downturns. The study highlights how Islamic finance aligns with the sustainable development goals and its effectiveness in promoting ethical financial practices and socio-economic justice.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should focus on global comparative studies to understand Islamic finance’s impact on sustainable development beyond the GCC. Longitudinal studies are also essential to assess the long-term effects of Islamic financial instruments on economic stability.

Practical implications

The research advocates for incorporating Islamic finance principles into the GCC’s economic strategies, emphasising its role in providing resilient and ethical financial alternatives conducive to sustainable development. It underscores the need for policy initiatives integrating Islamic finance to bolster socio-economic welfare and environmental sustainability.

Originality/value

Offering a novel perspective, this paper enriches the discourse on the contribution of Islamic finance to sustainable economic development. It presents critical insights into how Islamic finance can underpin long-term economic resilience and growth in the GCC. It provides valuable implications for academia and policymaking, particularly in emerging economies’ science and technology policy management.
Acceptability of home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in major depression: a qualitative analysis of individual experiences
Authors: Rimmer Rachael M. , Woodham Rachel D. , Cahill Sharon , Fu Cynthia H.Y.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to gain a qualitative view of the participant experience of using home-based transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Acceptability impacts patient preference, treatment adherence and outcomes. However, acceptability is usually assessed by rates of attrition, while multifaceted constructs are not reflected or given meaningful interpretations. tDCS is a novel non-invasive brain stimulation that is a potential treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). Most studies have provided tDCS in a research centre. As tDCS is portable, the authors developed a home-based treatment protocol that was associated with clinical improvements that were maintained in the long term.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examined the acceptability of home-based tDCS treatment in MDD through questionnaires and individual interviews at three timepoints: baseline, at a six-week course of treatment, and at six-month follow-up. Twenty-six participants (19 women) with MDD in a current depressive episode of at least moderate severity were enrolled. tDCS was provided in a bifrontal montage with real-time remote supervision by video conference at each session. A thematic analysis was conducted of the individual interviews.

Findings

Thematic analysis revealed four main themes: effectiveness, side effects, time commitment and support, feeling held and contained. The themes reflected the high acceptability of tDCS treatment, whereas the theme of feeling contained might be specific to this protocol.

Originality/value

Qualitative analysis methods and individual interviews generated novel insights into the acceptability of tDCS as a potential treatment for MDD. Feelings of containment might be specific to the present protocol, which consisted of real-time supervision at each session. Meaningful interpretation can provide context to a complex construct, which will aid in understanding and clinical applications.
The relationship between weight status and food environments, peer influence and dietary intake among high-school students: a case-control study
Authors: Mohabati Shabnam , Mirahmadizadeh Alireza , Hassanzadeh-Rostami Zahra , Bellissimo Nick , Faghih S.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between weight status and food environments, peer influence and dietary intake among high-school students in Shiraz, Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying a case-control design, 406 adolescents (n = 203 overweight or obese and n = 203 normal weight) aged 14–18 years were selected using a multistage cluster random sampling method. Demographic information, physical activity level and anthropometric indices were collected. Dietary intake was determined using a 147-item food frequency questionnaire. Food environment (home and out of home) and peer influence were determined by a validated questionnaire.

Findings

The type of food purchased using pocket money was different between adolescents with overweight or obesity and normal weight adolescents (p < 0.001). The out-of-home food environment score was not different between groups, but the home food environment score (p = 0.004) and the peer influence score (p = 0.001) were higher in normal weight adolescents. Adolescents with overweight or obesity consumed higher amounts of carbohydrate (p = 0.006) and lower amounts of protein (p = 0.01) and more sweet junk foods (p = 0.01), nonstarchy vegetables (p = 0.03) and fruits (p = 0.01) compared to the normal weight group.

Originality/value

Home food environment, peer influence, differences in macronutrient intake and dietary patterns may be contributing factors to adolescent weight status.
Designing for everyone: can the principles of dementia-friendly design inform design for neurodiversity in health-care settings?
Authors: Waller Sarah , Evans Simon Chester , Bray Jennifer , Atkinson Teresa
Published: January 2024

Purpose

There is increasing interest in the UK in developing environments that support people who are neurodiverse. This paper aims to report on a project to develop a cognitively supportive environmental assessment tool to improve the design of health centres, where the majority of National Health Service consultations take place, for all users, including people living with dementia and those who are neurodiverse.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-stage process was used: a literature review; the development of a matrix of key design features for people living with dementia, autism and other neurodiverse conditions; and the development of an environmental assessment tool and guide for users, which included easy-to-read versions to maximise service user involvement.

Findings

The overarching concepts of dementia-friendly design can be adapted to create designs for everyone, including those who are neurodiverse.

Research limitations/implications

There is a paucity of research in environmental design for primary care from the patient’s perspective, and, more generally, further research on design for adults with learning disabilities and autism is needed.

Practical implications

The tools are free to download. With adaptation, they have potential applicability across health and care settings.

Originality/value

This project has confirmed that the principles of dementia-friendly design are applicable, with modifications, to a wider group of neurodiverse people. Critically, each person’s response to sensory stimuli is individual rather than determined by their condition.
Homecare nursing: a survey of citizen experiences with health-care professionals in the time allotted for homecare
Authors: Dürr Dorte Wiwe , Mikkelsen Linda Hindsgaul , Moth Grete
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Research-based knowledge on homecare nursing is scarce and further information is warranted about citizens’ perceptions of receiving home care under existing conditions. The purpose of this study was to investigate citizen experiences with health-care professionals in the time allotted for home care.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was distributed to 348 citizens receiving home care. The questionnaire consisted of questions whether the citizens experienced that enough time was available during the homecare visit and how the conversation and care relationship with the health-care professionals were experienced. The differences in responses were analysed using Fisher’s Exact Tests.

Findings

Overall, 94% of the citizens reported that sufficient time had been available and that care relationship and conversation with the health-care professionals had been positive during the homecare visit. However, the findings indicated that citizens aged more than +76 years and citizens with a high educational level were more prone to report that the nurses did not spend enough time during the home visit.

Originality/value

The findings offer useful insights for the professionals in delivering appropriate home care. Listening to citizens’ wishes and needs for home care could lead to better individualised care. Especially the youngest and oldest of the citizens seem to have specific experiences that call for further investigation.
Effects of public infrastructural development and industrialization on economic complexity in Africa: Emerging insight from panel data analysis
Authors: Emeka Ekene ThankGod , Ogbuabor Jonathan E. , Nwosu Emmanuel O.
Published: January 2024

This study examined the effects of public infrastructural development and industrialization on economic complexity in Africa, and how industrialization is moderating the effect of public infrastructural development on economic complexity. The study adopted the pooled ordinary least squares, the dynamic system generalized method of moments and the dynamic bias‐corrected least squares dummy variable estimators with a panel of 34 African economies over the period 2010–2021. The findings revealed that public infrastructural development and industrialization contribute positively and significantly toward enhancing economic complexity in Africa. We also found that industrialization substantially moderates and enhances the influence of public infrastructural development on economic complexity. Furthermore, the results show that trade openness, foreign direct investment inflow, international tourism arrival and institutional quality are potent factors enhancing Africa's economic complexity, while the role of human capital remains muted. These findings suggest that African leaders and policy‐makers can foster economic complexity across the continent by embracing policies that prioritize increased infrastructural development, industrialization, trade openness and foreign direct investment inflow while improving the quality of institutions within the region.
A review of age estimation methods in non‐avian reptiles by growth marks in hard tissues
Authors: SZÉKELY Diana , STĂNESCU Florina , SZÉKELY Paul , TELEA Alexandra E. , COGĂLNICEANU Dan
Published: January 2024

Age and growth‐related data are basic biological parameters, essential in population ecology, evolution, and conservation biology. There is a growing body of published information on reptile demography derived from sclerochronology, a technique based on counting the growth layers deposited in bones (skeletochronology) and other hard body structures. Since the data are not always easily available, we compiled the existing published data, described the current status of knowledge, synthetized the conclusions of disparate studies, and identified patterns of research and information gaps, prioritizing the needs for future research. Our database includes the results of 468 published studies covering 236 reptile species from 41 families. These represent less than 2% of the total number of known extant species. Turtles and crocodiles are proportionally better studied, while snakes are the least examined group. The distribution of the research does not reflect conservation needs; we found an important geographic bias, with an overrepresentation of Northern temperate species. Only 23% of the studies checked the assumption of periodicity of growth marks deposition, and the method was found to be reliable or adequate in 79% of the cases. Overall, the data obtained through sclerochronology can be considered robust, especially if validation methods are employed, since the general goal is to characterize population parameters, trends, and dynamics, rather than determining the exact age of any specimen in particular.
Sugar reduction in chocolate compound by replacement with flours containing small insoluble starch granules
Authors: Ma Kai Kai , Ziegler Gregory R. , Hayes John E.
Published: January 2024

Consumer concern about intake of added sugars has increased commercial demand for sugar‐reduced chocolates. However, substitution with high‐potency sweeteners is not possible as sugar serves as an important bulking agent. Here, we investigated replacement of sucrose in chocolate compound with oat or rice flours, with starch granules smaller than 10 µm, focusing on texture, sweetness, and acceptability. In Study 1, six chocolates were made: a control with 54% sucrose, four sucrose‐reduced versions (reductions of 25% or 50%, using either oat or sweet rice flour), and one 54% sucrose chocolate with reduced refining time. These chocolates were compared in a Difference from Control (DFC) test in a within‐subject design, with and without nose clips. Particle size distribution, yield stress, and plastic viscosity were measured. Chocolates with 25% sucrose reduction by either sweet rice or oat flour (or reduced refining time) were not significantly different from the blind control (p > 0.05), regardless of nose clip use. In open‐ended comments, participants reported differences in rice‐flour‐containing chocolates were due to a chalkier texture, while oat‐flour‐containing chocolates were described as smoother, softer, and creamier. DFC scores from the chocolates were positively correlated with plastic viscosity and negatively correlated with yield stress. In Study 2, 25% reduced sugar chocolates made with rice flour were liked significantly less than control, but the oat flour sample did not differ from control. Collectively, these results suggest up to 25% of sucrose in chocolate can be replaced with oat flour without negatively affecting texture or consumer acceptance.
Probabilistic risk assessment for determining nonessential metals in commercial infant formula products in Taiwan
Authors: Liao Kai‐Wei , Lee Wei‐Ju , Lin Shao‐Chi , Tsao Yi‐Ning , Lin Hsin‐Ying , Liu Chen , Chin Wei‐Shan
Published: January 2024

During the early months of life, infant formula plays a crucial role as a primary source of both food and essential nutrients for infants, serving as a replacement for or supplement to breast milk. However, nonessential metals in infant formulas are a concern because infants are highly vulnerable to chemical exposure. The aim of this study was to investigate infant exposure to nonessential metals in infant formula products in Taiwan and assess the associated health risks. In this study, concentrations of arsenic (As), barium (Ba), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), and vanadium (V) in 45 formula products for 0–1‐year‐old infants were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The mean As, Ba, Cd, Mn, Pb, and V concentrations were 6.42, 280, 3.72, 1425, 20.4, and 21.9 µg/kg, respectively. According to our probabilistic simulation of the estimated daily intake of metals, the proportion of hazard quotients exceeding one was 7.69% for As and 3.29% for Mn, and that of hazard index (HI) values exceeding 1 was >17% for metals. Arsenic had the largest HI contribution (46.9%), followed by Mn (22.3%) and Pb (12.7%). The nonessential metals content in infant formula raises potential noncarcinogenic health concerns for infants in Taiwan. Therefore, regulations for nonessential metals must be imposed on related food products in Taiwan, with a particular focus on As and Mn.
Novel peptides from sea cucumber intestines hydrolyzed by neutral protease alleviate exercise‐induced fatigue via upregulating the glutaminemediated Ca2+/Calcineurin signaling pathway in mice
Authors: Lu Xutong , Wang Meng , Yue Hao , Feng Xiaoxuan , Tian Yingying , Xue Changhu , Zhang Tiantian , Wang Yuming
Published: January 2024

Sea cucumber intestines are considered a valuable resource in the sea cucumber processing industry due to their balanced amino acid composition. Studies have reported that peptides rich in glutamate and branched‐chain amino acids have anti‐fatigue properties. However, the function of the sea cucumber intestine in reducing exercise‐induced fatigue remains unclear. In this study, we enzymatically hydrolyzed low molecular weight peptides from sea cucumber intestines (SCIP) and administered SCIP orally to mice to examine its effects on exercise‐induced fatigue using swimming and pole‐climbing exhaustion experiments. The results revealed that supplementation with SCIP significantly prolonged the exhaustion time of swimming in mice, decreased blood lactate and urea nitrogen levels, and increased liver and muscle glycogen levels following a weight‐loaded swimming test. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated a notable increase the proportion of slow‐twitch muscle fiber and a significant decrease the proportion of fast‐twitch muscle fiber following SCIP supplementation. Furthermore, SCIP upregulated mRNA expression levels of Ca2+/Calcineurin upstream and downstream regulators, thereby contributing to the promotion of skeletal muscle fiber type conversion. This study presents the initial evidence establishing SCIP as a potential enhancer of skeletal muscle fatigue resistance, consequently providing a theoretical foundation for the valuable utilization of sea cucumber intestines.
Isochoric freezing to extend the shelf life of pomegranate juice
Authors: Lou Leo , Takeoka Gary , Rubinsky Boris , Bilbao‐Sainz Cristina
Published: January 2024

Pomegranate juice was treated by isochoric freezing (−15°C/130 MPa) for 24 h and then stored under three different conditions for up to 4 weeks: 4°C/0.1 MPa, 24°C/0.1 MPa, and −10°C/100 MPa. The juice microbiological stability and quality were compared to those using heat treatment at 95°C for 15 s followed by cold storage at 4°C. Heat‐treated and isochoric frozen (IF) pomegranate juice stored under isochoric conditions showed no spoilage microorganisms after 4 weeks of storage. Also, IF juice stored at 4 or 24°C for 4 weeks had lower microbial loads than those in fresh pomegranate juice. IF juice stored under isochoric conditions showed greater color stability, antioxidant capacity, and nutrient retention (anthocyanins, ascorbic acid, and total phenolic compounds) than heat‐treated juices stored at 4°C. IF juice stored at 4°C also showed greater anthocyanin and ascorbic acid contents compared with heat‐treated juice.

Practical Application

Isochoric freezing storage at −10°C can be used to preserve the quality properties of fresh pomegranate juice. Isochoric freezing at −15°C for 24 h can also be used as a pretreatment to extend the shelf life of refrigerated pomegranate juice since the applied pressures reached total inactivation levels of spoilage microorganisms.
Can digital self‐harm relate to suicidal thoughts and behaviors beyond physical self‐harm?
Authors: Wang Juan , Wei Ziqian , Jia Luxia , Yu Jiaao , Wang Yuanyuan , Meng Yaxuan , Feng Yi , Chen Runsen
Published: January 2024

Background

Digital self‐harm (DiSH) is a recently identified self‐harm distinct from physical self‐harm (PSH, also known as non‐suicidal self‐injury, NSSI). Although prior research has shown that DiSH was associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), it was still unclear whether DiSH has a unique association with STBs after controlling for PSH.

Method

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted on Chinese college students. The lifetime prevalence of DiSH and PSH, the functions of DiSH, recent suicide experiences (including suicide ideation, plans, and attempts), anxiety and depression were examined. A total of 5281 participants were analyzed.

Results

A total of 10.83% of participants had ever engaged in DiSH, and 1.59% of participants reported histories of both DiSH and PSH. Among participants with a history of PSH, 30.11% engaged in DiSH. Engagement in DiSH was significantly associated with suicide ideation (SI), suicide plans (SPs), and suicide attempts (SAs). More importantly, participants who engaged in both DiSH and PSH showed higher odds of SI and SPs compared to those who had only engaged in PSH. Regarding the functions of DiSH, using DiSH for self‐punishment was associated with SI and SPs, and using DiSH for sensation seeking was associated with SPs and SAs. Similar results were found for the association between DiSH and anxiety and depression.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that DiSH has a unique association with the risks of STBs beyond PSH. Early identification and intervention for DiSH are crucial, even for individuals who already engage in PSH.
Does membership in seed producer cooperatives improve smallholders’ teff productivity? A comparative analysis in North Ethiopia
Authors: Gebrehiwot Nahusenay Teamer , Gezahegn Tafesse W. , Abbay Aradom Gebrekidan , Entehabu Tesfay Gebrehiwet , Beyene Alemtsehay Tsegay , Tesfay Asfafaw Haileslassie , Sebhatu Kifle Tesfamariam
Published: January 2024

Although teff (Eragrostis tef) is a very important staple food crop in Ethiopia, its production is constrained by low productivity due to poor access and adoption rate of improved seed by farmers. The government of Ethiopia envisions realizing an efficient teff value chain that enables a sustainable increase of smallholder teff productivity. As a result, the government is supporting seed producer cooperatives (SPCs) to supply improved teff seeds to farmers. The aim of this study is to compare teff productivity at household level among members and nonmembers of SPCs. To this end, a cross‐sectional survey design with multi‐stage sampling method was used to select 386 sample households (193 SPC members and 193 nonmembers). As membership in a cooperative is voluntary, farmers may self‐select into a given SPC according to their own motivation and interest. In a bid to address the potential issue of selection bias from both observed and unobserved heterogeneities, we employ the treatment effects model (TEM), which allows for a specific correlation structure between the unobservables that affect the treatment and the unobservables that affect the potential outcomes. Results show that, on average, SPC members produce 1.406 more quintals per hectare compared with their nonmember counterparts.
Oral iron therapy: Current concepts and future prospects for improving efficacy and outcomes
Authors: Ebea‐Ugwuanyi Pearl O. , Vidyasagar Sadasivan , Connor James R. , Frazer David M. , Knutson Mitchell D. , Collins James F.
Published: January 2024

Iron deficiency (ID) and iron‐deficiency anaemia (IDA) are global public health concerns, most commonly afflicting children, pregnant women and women of childbearing age. Pathological outcomes of ID include delayed cognitive development in children, adverse pregnancy outcomes and decreased work capacity in adults. IDA is usually treated by oral iron supplementation, typically using iron salts (e.g. FeSO4); however, dosing at several‐fold above the RDA may be required due to less efficient absorption. Excess enteral iron causes adverse gastrointestinal side effects, thus reducing compliance, and negatively impacts the gut microbiome. Recent research has sought to identify new iron formulations with better absorption so that lower effective dosing can be utilized. This article outlines emerging research on oral iron supplementation and focuses on molecular mechanisms by which different supplemental forms of iron are transported across the intestinal epithelium and whether these transport pathways are subject to regulation by the iron‐regulatory hormone hepcidin.