bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does exchange rate volatility influence import commodities of India-US? Evidence from ARDL approach
Authors: Gupta Mohini , Varshney Sakshi
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The aim the study is to explore the impact of real exchange rate volatility and other macroeconomic variable such as price of import, industrial production and real exchange rate on 45 import commodities, considering global financial crisis period on India's import from the US. The empirical analysis at disaggregate level of import indicates the existence of both short-run and long-run effect in one-third importing commodities. The results show both positive and negative effect and causality among variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses E-GARCH model to gage the real exchange rate volatility, an autoregressive distributive lag (ARDL) bound test technique to discover the adequate short- and long-run relationships and Toda-Yamamoto causality method to analyze the causality among variables. The study uses the time period from 2002:M09 to 2019:M06.

Findings

The empirical analysis at disaggregate level of import indicates the existence of both short-run and long-run effect in one-third importing commodities. The results show both positive and negative effects and causality among variables.

Practical implications

The finding of the study suggests that macroeconomic variables have significant role and could be important to undertake the small and medium scale industries in policymaking. Government may need to make decision for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as their performance can bring change in the trade to compete globally by increasing and controlling the price of the import and defending the domestic competitiveness.

Originality/value

The study uses additional variable namely price of import and includes the global financial crisis period to measure dampening effect on each commodity by using robust econometric technique in context of emerging nation like India.
The syntax of the particle qad in standard Arabic and Asiri Arabic
Authors: Alhaider Siham Mousa
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This article studies the particle qad in standard Arabic (SA) and Asiri Arabic (AA). In SA, qad is pronounced as [qæd], whereas in AA it is pronounced as [q?d] and written as qid. Qad in SA is different from qid in AA regarding its functional use and syntactic distribution. Accordingly, the study discusses the semantics and selection properties of qad/qid.

Design/methodology/approach

Contrasting analyses are presented to verify which syntactic analysis better suits extended projection principle (EPP) extension, and tree structures are provided to elucidate ongoing problematic configurations and to provide solutions.

Findings

The SA particle qad has three functions: (1) a probability modal, as in may or might; (2) a perfective auxiliary, as in have, has and had; and (3) indicating emphatic purpose, as in do, does and did. Contrariwise, qid in AA has two meanings: (1) have, has and had (perfective auxiliary); and (2) the past tense of the English copula was/became (a linking verb). Given this background, there has been a debate in the syntax literature about whether qid/qad is an adverb. The current article provides evidence indicating that qid and qad are not adverbs.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to the analysis of qid in Asiri dialect. Further research needs to be done on the different branches of the Asiri dialects according to the tribe. Sometimes, tribes have different sound for some words. There is not any literature review found on the Asiri dialects in the designated area of study; the particle qid.

Practical implications

The study can be counted towards the Asiri linguistic heritage in documenting the syntactic and semantic properties of qid particle. The study contributes to the linguistic field of the Arabic language and its varieties.

Social implications

The study offers a general review of the linguistic background of Asir region. The study introduces the reader to qad particle in SA and holds a comparison between the two researched versions of qad in SA and qid in AA.

Originality/value

The paradoxical analysis between qad and qid on all levels is presented (semantics, functional use, selection properties and level of configuration (EPP)). Also, it introduces the particle qid in AA as it was never investigated before.
A framework for scaling symbiotic nitrogen fixation using the most widespread nitrogen fixer in eastern deciduous forests of the United States
Authors: Wurzburger Nina , Motes Jessie I. , Miniat Chelcy Ford
Published: November 2021

Carbon uptake by the terrestrial biosphere depends on supplies of new nitrogen (N) from symbiotic N fixation, but we lack a framework for scaling fixation accurately and for predicting its response to global change.

We scaled symbiotic N fixation from individual N fixers (i.e. plants that host N‐fixing bacteria), by quantifying three key parameters—the abundance of N fixers, whether they are fixing N and their N fixation rates. We apply this framework to black locust, a widespread N‐fixing tree in temperate forests of the eastern United States, and harness long‐term data from southern Appalachian forests to scale fixation from trees to the landscape and over succession.

Symbiotic N fixation at the landscape scale peaked in the first decade following forest disturbance, and then declined. This pattern was due to the declining density and declining fixation rates of individual black locust trees over succession. Independent of forest succession, and coincident with chronic atmospheric N deposition, we have evidence suggesting that nodule biomass produced by black locust trees has declined by 83% over the last three decades. This difference in nodule biomass translates to a maximum fixation rate of 11 kg N ha−1 year−1 and a landscape average of 1.5 kg N ha−1 year−1 in contemporary forests.

Synthesis. We find key controls on symbiotic N fixation by black locust over space and time, suggesting lower fixation rates in eastern deciduous forests than previous estimates. Our scaling framework can be applied to other N fixers to aid predictions of symbiotic N fixation and ecosystem response to global change.
Amino acid infusions in umbilical artery catheters enhance protein administration in infants born at extremely low gestational age
Authors: Gialamas Spyros , Stoltz Sjöström Elisabeth , Diderholm Barbro , Domellöf Magnus , Ahlsson Fredrik
Published: November 2021

Aim

It is challenging to provide extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs) with adequate protein supply. This study aimed to investigate whether amino acid (AA) infusion in the umbilical artery catheter (UAC) in ELGANs is safe and enhances protein supply and growth.

Method

A before and after study including infants born <27 weeks, treated in Uppsala, Sweden, during 2004–2007, compared those receiving normal saline/10% dextrose in water with those receiving AA infusion in the UAC. Data were retrieved from the Extremely Preterm Infants in Sweden Study, hospital records and the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register. Group comparisons, univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted.

Results

AA group (n = 41, females 39%) received on average approximately 0.3 g/kg/day more protein during the first postnatal week, compared to control group (n = 30, females 40%) (unstandardised coefficient (B) 0.26, p .001) but no difference was noted during 8–28 postnatal days. The type of infusion was not associated with growth variables. The incidence of neonatal morbidities and UAC‐related thrombosis did not differ between the groups.

Conclusion

AA infusions in the UACs in ELGANs is safe and enhances protein supply during the first postnatal week. However, this practice is not associated with growth during the first 28 postnatal days.
Memo to University Leadership: Why “Monetizing” the Museum Collection is a Truly Bad Idea
Authors: Wetenhall John
Published: November 2021

As embedded institutions under the governing authority of a university administration and board of trustees, academic museums face a heightened risk that their collections might be “monetized” during times of fiscal crisis. Recent debates about deaccessioning have obfuscated the issues, thus exacerbating the vulnerability of collections. This essay articulates the basic case against monetization in pragmatic terms to assist museum professionals in explaining the ethics that protect their collections for future generations.
Cytodiagnosis of giant cell tumour presenting at unusual age and site with review of literature
Authors: Shastri Malvika , Kaur Jasleen , Dey Pranab
Published: November 2021

Giant cell tumour (GCT), also known as osteoclastoma, is an osteolytic tumour. It involves the epiphyseal and metaphyseal regions of long bones in adults. On rare occasions, these may occur in paediatric patients, and may involve uncommon locations such as the sternum, pelvis and, particularly infrequently, rib bones. We present a rare case of GCT in the rib of a child, diagnosed on fine needle aspiration.
The transition from development and disaster risk reduction to humanitarian relief: the case of Yemen during high‐intensity conflict
Authors: Mena Rodrigo , Hilhorst Dorothea
Published: November 2021

Discussions on how humanitarian aid and disaster responses can link better with development and disaster risk reduction (DRR) have occurred for decades. However, the reverse transition, from development to relief, is still poorly understood. Using the case of Yemen, this study analyses whether and how development and DRR activities adapted to the emerging humanitarian crisis when conflict escalated in the country. It concentrates on governance strategies, actors, challenges, and opportunities at the nexus of development, disaster, and humanitarian responses. Semi‐structured interviews and focus‐group discussions with aid and societal actors were conducted remotely and in Jordan. The findings show gaps in knowledge and coordination in the movement from development and DRR to relief, but also reveal spaces and opportunities to advance towards enhanced integration of action before, during, and after an emergency. This paper contributes to the literature on this nexus and critically argues for a more integrated approach to conflicts and disasters.
Historical avifaunal change and current effects of hiking and road use on avian occupancy in a high‐latitude tundra ecosystem
Authors: Meeker Avery L. , Marzluff John M. , Gardner Beth
Published: November 2021

Tourism is increasing in tundra ecosystems across the world, yet its influence on bird communities and its interaction with other drivers of change is poorly known. To help fill this gap, we paired an interview‐based survey of 11 people with local knowledge of Denali National Park and Preserve, with an occupancy study of 15 bird species in relation to road proximity, traffic volume and hiking. Interviewees noted declines in American Golden PloverPluvialis dominica, Arctic TernSterna paradisaea, Long‐tailed JaegerStercorarius longicaudusand Northern WheatearOenanthe oenantheover the past five decades. Our occupancy study confirmed these reports as we detected no Arctic Terns, few Northern Wheatears, and found both plovers and jaegers to be sensitive to hiking. Occupancy of tundra and shrub habitats by American Golden Plover, American Tree SparrowSpizelloides arborea, Lapland LongspurCalcarius lapponicus, Long‐tailed Jaeger and Willow PtarmiganLagopus lagopusdeclined with increasing hiking intensity. We found that occupancy probability of tundra by Horned LarkEremophia alpestrisincreased, while that of the shrub‐tolerant Wilson’s WarblerCardellina pusilladecreased, with distance from the park road. Detection of species varied based on survey length, noise, start time, presence of a trail and date. The knowledge gained from this study reveals a loss in avian diversity over the past few decades that has the potential to cause a shifted baseline syndrome, and ongoing threats of hiking to sensitive tundra‐breeding birds. Park managers should seek to balance human recreation with the needs of sensitive tundra‐breeding birds to further protect species of conservation concern. This may be done by not building new trails in tundra, limiting access to tundra hiking areas during the early breeding season, reducing the spatial extent of hiking by improving maintained trails and designating a single, maintained path in areas with multiple unofficial hiking tracks, educating tourists about tundra‐nesting birds and closing especially important nesting areas to the public.
Consumption to compensate for the feeling of “loss of ownership of self” Women’s journeys through the liminal transitions of marriage
Authors: G. P. Ranjitha , Unnithan Anandakuttan B. , Belk Russell W.
Published: November 2021

This interpretive study derives a conceptual framework explaining how Indian women experience a loss of self through the transformational event of marriage. The self‐discrepancy of losing one’s self motivates these women to renegotiate their sense of self through consumption. Data were collected through 76 in‐depth interviews analyzed by a constant comparative method and grounded theory. Our research question is to what degree and in what ways do women in India experience a loss of self upon marriage and, if they do, through what consumer practices (if any) do they attempt to compensate for this feeling of loss? Analysis revealed three common stages in Indian women’s married life (1) marriage as a life transitional event inducing liminality (2) loss of Self: dissonance (3) compensatory consumption as a response to dissonance. Our research contributes to life cycle theory by focusing on liminal transitions. We find that self is a possession that women can lose after marriage in India. Based on these findings we argue that understandings of identity and life cycle must be amended to consider self‐discrepancy and coping processes. We develop a model of consumption that results from a perceived loss of self. This is all part of a process of self‐identity reconstruction. We also expand psychological ownership theory to include ownership of self.
An Improved Colour‐difference Formula for use in Light‐fastness Testing
Authors: Vaeck S. V.
Published: November 2021

An analysis is made of data obtained in a comparison of the colour differences between faded and unfaded Blue light‐fastness standards with Grey Scale steps, which showed that the ANLAB and CIELAB formulae result in colour differences up to four times greater for the Blue standards than for visually equivalent Grey Scale steps. It is shown that this is due to an underweighting of the lightness difference against the chromaticity difference by a factor which depends on the relative amounts of each difference component.

A formula is proposed which shows a near‐perfect correlation with the experimental data and thus mades it possible to measure the degree of fading of any Blue standard in Grey Scale steps.

When this formula is tested against the Morley data, which are based on perceptibility testing, the correlation is worse than for the ANLAB or the CIELAB formulae. The reasons for this apparent contradiction are discussed.
The Synthesis and Properties of Dyes and Pigments Containing a 9,9‐Spirobifluorene Residue
Authors: Sutcliffe F. K. , Shahidi Hassan Moaven , Patterson David
Published: November 2021

The synthesis and properties of several azo and anthraquinonoid dyes containing a 9,9′‐spirobifluorene residue are described. The azo dyes were prepared by diazotization of 2,2′‐diamino‐9,9′ spirobifluorene and coupling to various commonly used coupling components. The anthraquinonoid dyes were made by condensation of the appropriate aminoanthraquinones with 9′,9′‐spirobifluorene‐2,2′‐dicarboxylic acid dichloride. The fastness to light of the so prepared has been compared with that of their non‐spiro analogues.
Effect of the Mediterranean diet on gingivitis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bartha Valentin , Exner Lea , Schweikert Daniela , Woelber Johan Peter , Vach Kirstin , Meyer Anna‐Lisa , Basrai Maryam , Bischoff Stephan C. , Meller Christian , Wolff Diana
Published: November 2021

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 6‐week Mediterranean diet (MD) intervention on gingival inflammatory and anthropometric parameters of patients with gingivitis.

Materials and methods

Forty‐two participants were allocated to MD group (MDG) or control group (CG). After a 2‐week equilibration period regarding dental care procedures, only MDG changed their diet to MD for 6 weeks, supported by a diet counselling. Gingival and anthropometric parameters were assessed at baseline (T0), Week 2 (T1, beginning of MD intervention), and Week 8 (T2). Adherence to MD was assessed by the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS); dietary behaviour was evaluated by the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults Food Frequency Questionnaire (DEGS‐FFQ).

Results

Plaque values remained constant in both groups. Inflammatory periodontal and anthropometric parameters decreased in the MDG only (gingival index:T1 1.51 ± 0.21,T2 1.49 ± 0.24; bleeding on probing:T1 51.00 ± 14.65,T2 39.93 ± 13.74; body weight:T1 79.01 ± 15.62,T2 77.29 ± 17.00; waist circumference:T1 84.41 ± 10.1,T2 83.17 ± 10.47 (p < .05). MEDAS revealed a sufficient diet adherence for MDG.

Conclusion

Within this study, gingival inflammatory parameters were significantly reduced by MD, whereas plaque parameters remained constant. The diet counselling achieved sufficient adherence with beneficial changes in weight loss and waist circumference.
Micro‐angiogenic patterns around orthodontic implants migrating in bone: A micro‐CT study in the rat tail model
Authors: Hüfner Mira , Rauch Nicole , Schwarz‐Herzke Beryl , Knorr Ivonne Jeanette , Sager Martin , Drescher Dieter , Becker Kathrin
Published: November 2021

Aim

Recent studies revealed that implants can migrate in bone when subjected to continuous loading. Since this process is suspected to be accompanied by bone remodelling, which requires blood vessel formation, the present work aimed at assessing the micro‐angiogenic patterns around migrating implants.

Materials and methods

In 16 rats, two customized implants were placed in a single tail vertebra and connected with contraction springs (forces: 0 N, 0.5 N, 1.0 N, 1.5 N). After 2 or 8 weeks of loading, the animals were scanned by micro‐CT before and after vasculature perfusion with a silicone rubber. Vessels were segmented by subtraction of the two micro‐CT scans. Vessel thickness (V.Th), vessel volume per total volume (VV/TV), and vascular spacing (V.Sp) were assessed in a peri‐implant volume of interest (VOI) around each implant.

Results

At 2 weeks of loading, force magnitude was significantly associated with VV/TV and V.Th values (χ2 = 10.942, p < .001 and χ2 = 6.028, p = .010, respectively). No significant differences were observed after 8 weeks of loading.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of an animal study, peri‐implant vessel thickness and density were associated with force magnitude in the early loading phase, whereas effects diminished after 8 weeks of loading.
DNA reconciles morphology and colouration in the drunk blenny genus Scartichthys (Teleostei: Blenniidae) and provides insights into their evolutionary history
Authors: Delrieu‐Trottin Erwan , Hartmann‐Salvo Hans , Saenz‐Agudelo Pablo , Landaeta Mauricio F. , Pérez‐Matus Alejandro
Published: November 2021

The blenniids of the genus Scartichthys are one of the most common fishes of Central and South American Pacific coastal reefs. This being said, Scartichthys spp. remain difficult to identify in the field, and identification is particularly challenging across the c. 6000 km where three of the four currently accepted species are known to occur in sympatry. A reason for this is that the main taxonomic characters from traditional taxonomy are indeed elusive. In addition, at the same time, species can display multiple colour patterns in the field, depending on their ontogenetic stage, habitat association and reproductive behaviour. Overall, molecular characterization is warranted to help address these issues. In this study, the authors have used a novel approach to revise the genus by combining colouration, morphological and molecular data of representative specimens of the four currently valid species and seven described colour patterns. From this, the authors show that only three of the four species should be considered as valid; Scartichthys gigas (Steindachner, 1876), Scartichthys variolatus (Valenciennes, 1836) and Scartichthys viridis (Valenciennes, 1836), whereas Scartichthys crapulatus (Williams, 1990) should be synonymized with S. viridis. In the same way, the analyses in this study show that one of the colour patterns attributed so far only to S. gigas is characteristic of the juvenile stages of S. viridis. The time‐calibrated phylogeny of this study shows that this genus is relatively young and that the estimated time of divergence between S. gigas and S. viridis is c. 1.71 Ma. In comparison, the Desventuradas and Juan Fernandez Islands endemic S. variolatus diverged c. 1.95 Ma. The results of this study help to clarify the taxonomy of Scartichthys.
Early development of pearlside Maurolicus stehmanni off south‐eastern Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues‐Ribeiro Marcelo , Suzuki Kazuko , Martins Rodrigo Silvestre
Published: November 2021

The pearlside Maurolicus stehmanni is one of the most abundant mesopelagic fishes off south‐eastern Brazil and plays a key role in the regional ecosystem. However, its early life history remains poorly understood. This study examined the M. stehmanni early life stages, from eggs to juveniles, including all developmental changes in external morphology. Larvae are simple in morphology and lack specialized larval structures. Notochord flexion begins at ~5.15 mm body length (BL) and larvae ≥5.95 mm BL are flexed. The relative growth of seven measured larval characters (head length, body depth, snout length, eye diameter, pre‐dorsal length, pre‐ventral length and pre‐anal length) have transition points (allometric inflexion points), indicating biphasic growth patterns which are likely related to shifts in habitat use, feeding and behaviour. Larval development is similar to that of other Maurolicus species. The relatively fast development of the fins, photophores, swimbladder and pigmentation suggests a precocious adoption of a micronektonic lifestyle in the mesopelagic environment.
Comparative study on accuracy of mucosal estradiol‐17β, testosterone and 11‐ketotestosterone, for maturity, and cutaneous vitellogenin gene expression in goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Authors: Roosta Zahra , Falahatkar Bahram , Sajjadi Mirmasoud , Paknejad Hamed , Mandiki Syaghalirwa N M , Kestemont Patrick
Published: November 2021

Providing a non‐invasive procedure to track fish maturity remains a priority in broodstocks' management. In the present study, the main goal was to assess reproduction status by measuring sex steroids and vitellogenin (VTG) in the skin mucosa, as a non‐invasive method. For this purpose, the present study compared the levels of estradiol‐17β (E2), testosterone (T), 11‐ketotestosterone (11‐KT), VTG and calcium (Ca) in skin mucosa and blood plasma of goldfish (Carassius auratus). Skin mucosal and blood samples were collected, as well as gonad tissues, from goldfish, as a seasonal spawner. Histological analysis confirmed the gender and maturity status from females' ovaries (as primary‐growth, cortical‐alveoli, initial and late‐vitellogenesis) and males' testes (as spermatogenesis and spermiation). Furthermore, vitellogenin (vtg) expression was observed in skin, liver and gonads. The results indicate that mucosal E2 concentrations were significantly higher during initial and late vitellogenesis than the other stages. Mucosal 11‐KT concentrations significantly increased at spermiation (P < 0.05). E2/T and 11‐KT/E2 ratios significantly increased at early vitellogenesis and spermatogenesis, respectively (P < 0.05). Females' mucosal VTG levels were significantly fluctuated according to the maturity stage. Ca showed a similar trend, but Ca was more accurate for sex identification than the VTG. Although mucus showed high levels of VTG, ovarian vtg expression was strongest while liver and skin had the similar results. These results show that measuring the mucosal androgens could be considered as an accurate, non‐invasive method to monitor fish maturity.
Multistage metamorphism of eclogite in the South Altyn HP–UHP belt, Northwest China: Deep subduction and exhumation process of continental crust
Authors: Ma Tuo , Liu Liang , Gai Yong Sheng , Wang Chao , Liao Xiaoying , Cao Yuting
Published: November 2021

Two types of retrograded eclogite (phengite‐bearing eclogite and garnet pyroxenite) within eclogite‐facies granitic gneisses are reported for the first time from the Younusisayi area of the South Altyn high to ultrahigh pressure (HP–UHP) metamorphic belt. These eclogites were studied using petrology, mineral chemistry, phase equilibrium modelling, and geochronology. The phengite‐bearing eclogite records five stages of metamorphism: (1) early prograde (Grt + Cpx + Amp + Rt + Qz) at conditions ofP = 11.50–17.5 kbar,T = 665–740°C; (2) peak eclogite‐facies (Grt + Omp + Ph + Rt + Qz) at conditions ofP > 24.2 kbar,T = 710–1000°C; (3) overprinting during retrograde transition to HP granulite‐facies conditions (Grt + Cpx ± Kfs + Pl + Rt + Qz) atP = 12.1–16.9 kbar andT = 760–890°C; (4) retrogression at granulite‐facies conditions (Grt + Cpx + Amp + Pl + Ilm + Qz) ofP = 9.1–11.4 kbar,T = 730–840°C; and (5) amphibolite‐facies metamorphism (Amp + Pl + Ilm + Qz) during cooling and decompression. The garnet pyroxenite records four stages of metamorphism: (1) eclogite‐facies at conditions ofP > 23.2 kbar,T = 775–965°C; (2) HP granulite‐facies conditions ofP = 13.2–17.8 kbar andT = 836–912°C; (3) granulite‐facies conditions ofP = 8.6–9.7 kbar,T = 739–783°C; and (4) amphibolite‐facies metamorphism. Zircon U–Pb dating and trace element analysis constrain eclogite‐facies metamorphism to c. 500 Ma, consistent with the age of the surrounding eclogite‐facies granitic gneiss (497.8 ± 2.7 Ma). Retrograde metamorphism ages of c. 460 Ma are interpreted as recording zircon growth after granulite‐facies metamorphism. TheP–T–t path defines the integrated process of deep subduction and multistage exhumation and places constraints on the early Palaeozoic geodynamics of the South Altyn belt. Well‐preserved major and trace element zoning of garnets in the Ph‐bearing eclogites lacks evidence of significant thermal diffusion and may record garnet growth during deep subduction, immediately followed by very rapid exhumation.
The incorporation of Cu into the clinker phases
Authors: Staněk Theodor , Dzurov Matej , Khongová Ingrid , Boháč Martin
Published: November 2021

The effect of CuO addition on the phase composition of clinker and the Cu incorporation into the structure of clinker phases was monitored under laboratory conditions. Separate synthesized CuO‐doped clinker phases as well as clinkers with different CuO content up to 4 wt.% were characterized by XRD, optical and electron microscopy with EDS analysis. It has been found that Cu tends to form a separate phase or a double oxide with Ca and incorporates in the clinker phases to a limited extent, except for C4AF. With increasing CuO content in clinker, its phase composition changes, and the size of alite crystals increases.
Masticatory function before and after masticatory muscle‐related temporomandibular disorder treatment: An observational study
Authors: Çetiner Reşat Batuhan , Ergün‐Kunt Göknil , Yüceer‐Çetiner Ezgi , Schimmel Martin
Published: November 2021

Background

Muscle‐related temporomandibular disorders (TMD) may affect the masticatory function. Chewing function can be assessed objectively using bolus‐kneading tests, such as two‐colour chewing‐gum mixing ability test.

Objective

The aim was to compare the masticatory function with a two‐colour chewing‐gum test before and after treatment of the masticatory muscle‐related temporomandibular disorder.

Methods

Twenty‐one patients with masticatory muscle disorder according to Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) were recruited as an experimental group, and further twenty‐one participants without any TMD were included as controls. Pain intensity (scored on a visual‐analogue scale) and maximum mouth opening (MMO) were recorded. Jaw Functional Limitation Scale‐8 (JFLS‐8) was conducted on all patients. Before and after treatment, masticatory function was evaluated with a validated bolus‐kneading test, using two‐colour chewing gum.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in chewing function before and after treatment in the experimental group (p = .715). When these values were compared with the control group, there were no statistically significant differences (p = .489, p = .890). There was no correlation between masticatory function and VAS, MMO, JFLS‐8 before and after treatment in the experimental group.

Conclusion

The two‐colour chewing‐gum test is not sensitive when the masticatory performance is not severely impaired.
Redefining help through peer support
Authors: Uren Emma‐Jane , Inder Maree L.
Published: November 2021

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject?

Traditional mental health services are not meeting the needs of service users.

Peer support is an alternative approach of providing support founded on relationship where there is respect and shared responsibility.

Peer support relationships are mutual and reciprocal.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

The experience of peer‐led care can be transformative.

A key aspect is the validation and valuing of lived experience and being seen as a person not as an illness.

The nature and quality of relationships is paramount and needs to be based on equity.

What are the implications for mental health nursing?

Nurses have a key role to advocate and promote peer support services.

Relationships need to be based on respect and “being alongside” service users in their recovery journey rather than trying to “fix the problem.”

Introduction

Peer‐led services provide an approach to support based on mutuality, respect and shared experience.

Aim

To provide an understanding of my experiences of receiving help from a peer‐led service.

Method

Journaling experiences captured in detail the reality of my experiences at the time and were used to inform this paper.

Results

The Narrative describes entering a Peer‐Led Acute Alternative Service when I was amid a mental health crisis and feeling broken. Here, relationships were based on connecting with others who have experienced similar struggles, being seen as an individual rather than a patient, treated with dignity and respect, being heard, having my feelings acknowledged rather than medicated and feeling understood. This created a shift in me to a place of healing and finding meaning in my experiences of mental distress which led to me training in peer support.

Discussion

Peer‐led services can be a transformative experience which redefines the relationship and shifts the person from being a passive recipient of help to an active participant in their recovery. Choice and increased options for peer services as an integral aspect of services available for individuals on their mental health journey is critical.
Formation of texture quality of raspberry snack under microwave puffing
Authors: Ma Wenyu , Feng Shaoxuan , Zhao Wei , Xue Liangliang , Shen Liuyang , Zheng Xianzhe
Published: November 2021

Raspberry snack, as a novel berry product, has rich favor and high crisp taste, where controllable texture quality is conducive to the palatability of the snack. Determinative factors of microwave puffing in microwave intensity and duration and key property of material in Young's modulus were introduced to investigate the formation of texture quality of berry snack under microwave puffing. The results indicate that the microwave intensity has negative correlation with Young's modulus of raspberry chips, which causes the more porosity inside under microwave puffing. Reasonable Young's modulus of raspberry chips enhances the interior porosity and exterior expansion volume of raspberry snack due to the water vapor wrapped other than escaped. The greater microwave intensity results in the higher volume expansion of raspberry chips, in which the great volume expansion from porous pores structure confers moderate hardness. In microwave puffing, the formation of hardness and crispness of raspberry snack depend on microwave puffing parameters, leading to high temperature and great dehydration rate in quick puffing duration, in addition to Young's modulus of raspberry chips, where high dehydration rate accelerates water removal inside raspberry chips to form a harder texture with decreasing springiness, whereas low dehydration rate leads to the gentle change of springiness. Raspberry snack with uniform internal pores and regular shape forming desirable texture may be achieved under the microwave intensity of 7.5 W/g and the puffing duration of 6 min. This study indicates that high‐quality raspberry snack may be achieved via controlling heating rate in microwave puffing.
Microbial fuel cell performance for aromatic hydrocarbon bioremediation and common effluent treatment plant wastewater treatment with bioelectricity generation through series-parallel connection
Authors: Mukherjee A. , Patel R. , Zaveri P. , Shah M.T. , Munshi N.S.
Published: November 2021

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is an emerging technology which has been immensely investigated for wastewater treatment along with electricity generation. In the present study, the treatment efficiency of MFC was investigated for hydrocarbon containing wastewater by optimizing various parameters of MFC. Mediator-less MFC (1·2 l) was constructed, and its performance was compared with mediated MFC with Escherichia coli as a biocatalyst. MFC with electrode having biofilm proved to be better compared with MFC inoculated with suspended cells. Analysis of increasing surface area of electrode by increasing their numbers indicated increase in COD reduction from 55 to 75%. Catholyte volume was optimized to be 750 ml. Sodium benzoate (0·721 g l–1) and actual common effluent treatment plant (CETP) wastewater as anolyte produced 0·8 and 0·6 V voltage and 89 and 50% COD reduction, respectively, when a novel consortium of four bacterial strains were used. Twenty MFC systems with the developed consortium when electrically connected in series-parallel connection were able to generate 2·3 V and 0·5 mA current. This is the first report demonstrating the application of CETP wastewater in the MFC system, which shows potential of the system towards degradation of complex organic components present in industrial wastewater.
Sarcopenia is highly prevalent in children with autoimmune liver diseases and is linked to visceral fat and parent‐perceived general health
Authors: Amevor Antoinette A. , Yodoshi Toshifumi , Trout Andrew T. , Dillman Jonathan R. , Singh Ruchi , Jarvis Ryan , Fei Lin , Liu Chunyan , Taylor Amy , Miethke Alexander , Mouzaki Marialena
Published: November 2021

Background

Patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary or autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis are at nutritional risk; their body composition and has not been extensively studied. We aimed to describe their body composition and identify clinical links.

Methods

Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), two reviewers segmented total psoas muscle area (tPMSA), visceral fat area (VFA) and subcutaneous fat area (mm2) and measured visceral and subcutaneous thickness (mm). Clinical, laboratory and quality of life (QoL; using PedsQL) data were collected. Sarcopenia was defined as tPMSA ≤5th percentile. Analysis of variance, Wilcoxon rank test and multivariable modelling were performed. A paediatric cohort with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) was used as a comparator following propensity score matching.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients with autoimmune liver disease (AILD) (33 [57%] with AIH) were included: median age 16 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 13‐18), 33 (57%) male. Median time from diagnosis to MRI was 15 months (IQR: 2‐39 months). Two patients (3%) had a BMIz indicative of mild malnutrition. tPMSA was measurable in 52 subjects (90%). Of those, 25 (48%) had sarcopenia. Sarcopenic patients had a lower blood urea nitrogen compared to non‐sarcopenic (median [IQR]: 9.5 [8.0, 12.0] vs 11 [10, 14] mg/dL; P = .023). There was no difference in corticosteroid use between groups. The VFA of sarcopenic patients was higher (3156 [2064, 7492]) vs 2084 [688, 3092]) mm2; P = .005). Patient‐reported QoL negatively associated with VFA and general health negatively associated with VFA. Compared with NAFLD, the odds ratio for sarcopenia with AILD was 14.5 (95% confidence interval: 2.3‐90.7).

Conclusion

In autoimmune liver diseases, sarcopenia is highly prevalent, associated with increased visceral fat and QoL.
Association of skeletal muscle index with postoperative acute kidney injury in living donor hepatectomy: A retrospective single‐centre cohort study
Authors: Sim Ji‐Hoon , Kwon Hye‐Mee , Jun In‐Gu , Kim Sung‐Hoon , Kim Kyoung‐Sun , Moon Young‐Jin , Song Jun‐Gol , Hwang Gyu‐Sam , Ko YouSun , Kim Kyung‐Won
Published: November 2021

Background

Although living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is the standard treatment option for patients with end‐stage liver disease, it always entails ethical concerns about the risk of living donors. Recent studies have reported a correlation between sarcopenia and surgical prognosis in recipients. However, there are few studies of donor sarcopenia and the surgical prognosis of donors. This study investigated the association between sarcopenia and postoperative acute kidney injury in liver donors.

Methods

This retrospective study analysed 2892 donors who underwent donor hepatectomy for LDLT between January 2008 and January 2018. Sarcopenia was classified into pre‐sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia, which were determined to be −1 standard deviation (SD), and −2 SD from the mean baseline of the skeletal muscle index, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between donor sarcopenia and postoperative AKI. Additionally, we assessed the association between donor sarcopenia and delayed recovery of liver function (DRHF).

Results

In the multivariate analysis, donor sarcopenia was significantly associated a higher incidence of postoperative AKI (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 2.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15–6.11,P = .022 in pre‐sarcopenia, OR: 5.59, 95% CI: 1.11–28.15,P = .037 in severe sarcopenia, respectively). Additionally, hypertension and synthetic colloid use were significantly associated with postoperative AKI. In the multivariate analysis, risk factors of DRHF were male gender, indocyanine green retention rate at 15 minutes, and graft type, however, donor sarcopenia was not a risk factor.

Conclusions

Donor sarcopenia is associated with postoperative AKI following donor hepatectomy.
Inflammatory activity affects the accuracy of liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography but not by two‐dimensional shear wave elastography in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Mendoza Yuly P. , Rodrigues Susana G. , Delgado Maria G. , Murgia Giuseppe , Lange Naomi F. , Schropp Jonas , Montani Matteo , Dufour Jean‐François , Berzigotti Annalisa
Published: November 2021

Background

In patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the impact of the severity of steatosis and inflammatory activity on the accuracy of liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by transient elastography (TE) and by two‐dimensional shear wave elastography (2D‐SWE) in staging liver fibrosis is still debated and scarce. We aimed to focus on this aspect.

Methods

We prospectively studied 104 patients requiring biopsy for the assessment of NAFLD. We used ordinary least squares regression to test for differences in the association between fibrosis and LSM by TE and 2D‐SWE when other factors (steatosis and inflammatory activity) are considered.

Results

Among 104 patients, 102 had reliable LSM by TE, and 88 had valid LSM by 2D‐SWE. The association between fibrosis based on histology and LSM was significantly stronger when 2D‐SWE assessed LSM compared to TE (Spearman's correlation coefficient of .71; P < .001 vs .51, P < .001; Z = 2.21, P = .027). Inflammatory activity was an independent predictor of LSM by TE but not of LSM by 2D‐SWE. After controlling for fibrosis, age, sex and body mass index, the inflammatory activity and the interaction between inflammatory activity and fibrosis independently explained 11% and 13% of variance in LSM by TE respectively. Steatosis did not affect the association of fibrosis and LSM by either method.

Conclusion

Inflammatory activity on histology significantly affects LSM by TE, but not LSM by 2D‐SWE in NAFLD. LSM by 2D‐SWE reflects liver fibrosis more accurately than LSM by TE. Furthermore, the severity of steatosis on histology did not influence the association of LSM and fibrosis by either elastography method.
EHD2 modulates Dll4 endocytosis during blood vessel development
Authors: Webb Amelia M. , Francis Caitlin R. , Judson Rachael J. , Kincross Hayle , Lundy Keanna M. , Westhoff Dawn E. , Meadows Stryder M. , Kushner Erich J.
Published: November 2021

Objective

Despite the absolute requirement of Delta/Notch signaling to activate lateral inhibition during early blood vessel development, many mechanisms remain unclear about how this system is regulated. Our objective was to determine the involvement of Epsin 15 Homology Domain Containing 2 (EHD2) in delta‐like ligand 4 (Dll4) endocytosis during Notch activation.

Approach and Results

Using both in vivo and in vitro models, we demonstrate that EHD2 is a novel modulator of Notch activation in endothelial cells through controlling endocytosis of Dll4. In vitro, EHD2 localized to plasma membrane‐bound Dll4 and caveolae. Chemical disruption of caveolae complexes resulted in EHD2 failing to organize around Dll4 as well as loss of Dll4 internalization. Reduced Dll4 internalization blunted Notch activation in endothelial cells. In vivo, EHD2 is primarily expressed in the vasculature, colocalizing with junctional marker VE‐cadherin and Dll4. Knockout of EHD2 in zebrafish produced a significant increase in dysmorphic sprouts in zebrafish intersomitic vessels during development and a reduction in downstream Notch signaling.

Conclusions

Overall, we demonstrate that EHD2 is necessary for Dll4 transcytosis and downstream Notch activation.
The Nma1 protein promotes long distance transport mediated by early endosomes in Ustilago maydis
Authors: Schneider Karina , Farr Theresa , Pinter Niko , Schmitt Kerstin , Valerius Oliver , Braus Gerhard H. , Kämper Jörg
Published: November 2021

Early endosomes (EEs) are part of the endocytic transport pathway and resemble the earliest class of transport vesicles between the internalization of extracellular material, their cellular distribution or vacuolar degradation. In filamentous fungi, EEs fulfill important functions in long distance transport of cargoes as mRNAs, ribosomes, and peroxisomes. Formation and maturation of early endosomes is controlled by the specific membrane‐bound Rab‐GTPase Rab5 and tethering complexes as CORVET (class C core vacuole/endosome tethering). In the basidiomycete Ustilago maydis, Rab5a is the prominent GTPase to recruit CORVET to EEs; in rab5a deletion strains, this function is maintained by the second EE‐associated GTPase Rab5b. The tethering‐ and core‐subunits of CORVET are essential, buttressing a central role for EE transport in U. maydis. The function of EEs in long distance transport is supported by the Nma1 protein that interacts with the Vps3 subunit of CORVET. The interaction stabilizes the binding of Vps3 to the CORVET core complex that is recruited to Rab5a via Vps8. Deletion of nma1 leads to a significantly reduced number of EEs, and an increased conversion rate of EEs to late endosomes. Thus, Nma1 modulates the lifespan of EEs to ensure their availability for the various long distance transport processes.
Association between leukoreduced red blood cell transfusions and hospital‐acquired infections in critically ill children: A secondary analysis of the TRIPICU study
Authors: Flatman Leah K. , Fergusson Dean A. , Lacroix Jacques , Ducruet Thierry , Papenburg Jesse , Fontela Patricia S.
Published: November 2021

Background and Objectives

Hospital‐acquired infections (HAIs) are an important problem in critically ill children. Studies show associations between the transfusion of non‐leukoreduced red blood cell units (RBC) and increased HAI incidence rates (IRs). We hypothesize that transfusing pre‐storage leukoreduced RBC is also associated with increased HAI IR. We aim to evaluate the associations between (1) a leukoreduced RBC restrictive transfusion strategy and HAI IR, (2) leukoreduced RBC transfusions and HAI IR, and (3) the number or volume of leukoreduced RBC transfusions and HAI IR in critically ill children.

Materials and Methods

This post hoc secondary analysis of the “Transfusion Requirement in Paediatric Intensive Care Units” (TRIPICU) randomized controlled trial (637 patients) used quasi‐Poisson multivariable regression models to estimate HAI incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

A restrictive transfusion strategy yielded an IRR of 0.88 (95% CI 0.67, 1.16). The association between transfusing leukoreduced RBCs (IRR 1.25; 95% CI 0.73, 2.13) and HAI IR was not statistically significant. However, we observed significant associations between patients who received >20 cc/kg volume of leukoreduced RBC transfusions (IRR 2.14; 95% CI 1.15, 3.99) and ≥3 leukoreduced RBC transfusions (IRR 2.40; 95% CI 1.15, 4.99) and HAI IR.

Conclusion

Exposing critically ill children to >20 cc/kg or ≥3 leukoreduced RBC transfusions were associated with higher HAI IR, suggesting dose–response patterns.
Israel's Trade Alliances Strategy: Enjoying the Best of All Worlds
Authors: Munin Nellie
Published: November 2021

This article revisits Israel's trade and political alliance with the European Union – its major trade partner. The article examines the position calling to water down Israel-EU trade relations, considering EU's insistence on linking economic benefits with political advancement in the region, insights gained by the COVID-19 pandemic and substantial recent regional developments: Israel's trade diversification policy, the conclusion of Abraham Accords and the discovery of gas in the Eastern Mediterranean basin. Concluding that such a strategy may not serve the parties' interests best, the article explores ways to leverage these developments to further enhance EU-Israel partnership.
Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation: The Next Frontier in Global Politics
Authors: Alshareef Shaker Ahmed
Published: November 2021

National parliaments have become significantly active in international arena particularly in advancing democracy and national interests within a globalized context. This report assesses the role that inter-parliamentary organizations play in regional and global political scenes under the umbrella of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU). The article views these regional institutions in the context of their relations to the IPU through content analysis of available literature. Three of the regional bodies of interest in the report are the Arab Parliament, Central American Parliament (PARLACEN), and the European Union Parliament. The findings drawn from available literature shows that these organizations have become the new frontier for political movements as they take center stage in global affairs. The objectives of these regional bodies are largely aligned with those of the IPU, and it is not surprising that they frequently collaborate or agree on several issues. The article concludes that the Inter-parliamentary diplomacy and the pursuit of democracy through collective efforts of regional parliamentary bodies have made it possible for IPU to have a higher political currency in different jurisdictions.
Rare hand mass: malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor
Authors: Shi Miao , Li Xin , Wang Liangliang , Pei Caiying , Sun Liqian , Zhao Qinghua
Published: November 2021

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