bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood Pressure Variability and Autonomic Response to an Acute Bout of High Intensity Interval Exercise in Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Waghmare Saniya , Whitaker-Hilbig Alicen A. , Chertoff Mark , Billinger Sandra A.
Published: January 2024

Autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity causes acute variations in the blood pressure. Blood pressure responds to high intensity interval exercise (HIIE) repeatedly during alternating intensities, however, ANS response to the changing intensities of HIIE is unknown. We characterized the response of beat-to-beat blood pressure variability (BTB BPV) to an acute bout of HIIE using coefficient of variation (CoV) and spectral low frequency [LF], and high frequency [HF] domains. Our hypotheses were mean arterial pressure BTB BPV, would increase during 1) high intensity and 2) active recovery of HIIE compared to baseline (BL). BTB BPV would reduce during 1) cool down 2) post HIIE 3) 30 minutes post HIIE compared to BL in young adults. HIIE included bouts of 1-minute high-intensity separated by 1-minute recovery (□70% and 10% estimated Wattmax) for total of 10 minutes on a recumbent stepper. A secondary analysis was performed using twenty-one datasets of young individuals (age 25±1.5, 48% female). During high intensity, LF and HF increased compared to BL (p < 0.05) indicating increased sympathetic activity and breathing. During active recovery, LF and HF remained elevated above BL and were greater than during high intensity (p ≤ 0.02). Sympathetic activity reduced back to BL immediately post HIIE but returned to being higher than BL at 30 minutes after HIIE (p=0.001). BTB BPV CoV also increased during HIIE compared to BL (p<0.05). Results suggest that young healthy individuals have increased BTB BPV during HIIE suggesting cardiovascular system responds to ANS fluctuations during changing exercise intensity.

New and Noteworthy

This novel study analyzed beat -to-beat blood pressure variability during high intensity interval exercise (HIIE) in young healthy adults. We found that blood pressure variability was highest during active recovery compared to resting or high intensity exercise. Moreover, variability increased during HIIE but returned to resting post-exercise. These findings provide valuable insights into the blood pressure and ANS responses to HIIE, contributing to our understanding of their impact on overall cardiovascular health in young adults.
Simulation and measurement of the interplay between electron cooling, impedance, intrabeam scattering, and space charge for coasting beams
Authors: Biancacci N. , Zampetakis M.
Published: January 2024

The Low Energy Ion Ring (LEIR) at CERN is the first synchrotron in the Large Hadron Collider ions injector chain. The performance of LEIR is mainly determined by the number of charges extracted from the machine and transferred to the downstream chain of accelerators. Ions are delivered by the linear accelerator Linac 3. In the intensity accumulation phase, the machine operates with coasting beams: each injected beam is cooled, reducing its transverse dimensions and momentum spread, and brought into a stacking momentum position to allow subsequent injections. In this context, the evolution of the beam parameters for an injected beam under the effects of electron cooling, impedance, intrabeam scattering (IBS), and space charge is of interest in order to optimize the machine working point with respect to the accumulated intensity and to contribute to the understanding of the interplay of the different collective effects. This work describes the advancement in modeling coasting beam dynamics for LEIR accounting for the interplay of electron cooling, impedance, IBS, and space charge. Each effect is presented and progressively included to compute the simulated equilibrium longitudinal Schottky spectrum, which is found in good agreement with the measured one.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Capital adequacy, competition and liquidity creation of banks; evidence from Kenya
Authors: Kinini Dennis Muchuki , Kariuki Peter Wang’ombe , Ocharo Kennedy Nyabuto
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The study seeks to evaluate the effect of capital adequacy and competition on the liquidity creation of Kenyan commercial banks.

Design/methodology/approach

Unbalanced panel data from 36 Kenyan commercial banks with licenses from 2001 to 2020 is used in the study. The generalized method of moments (GMM), a two-step system, is employed in the investigation. To increase the robustness and prevent erroneous findings, serial correlation tests and instrumental validity analyses are used. The methodology developed by Berger and Bouwman (2009) is used to estimate the commercial banks' levels of liquidity creation.

Findings

The study supports the financial fragility-crowding out hypothesis by finding a significant negative effect of capital adequacy on the liquidity creation of commercial banks. The research also identifies a significant inverse relationship between competition and liquidity creation, depicting competition's value-destroying effect.

Practical implications

A trade-off exists between capital adequacy and liquidity creation, which must be carefully evaluated as changes in capital requirements are considered. The value-destroying effect of competition on liquidity creation presents a case for policy geared toward consolidating banks' operations through possible mergers and acquisitions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to empirically offer evidence concurrently on the effect of competition and capital adequacy on the liquidity creation of commercial banks in a developing economy such as Kenya. Additionally, the authors employ a novel measure of competition at the firm level.
Technology acceptance determinants and consumer innovativeness influence on ASNAFS’ acceptance towards the use of e-wallet
Authors: Shaikh Imran Mehboob , Amin Hanudin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the determinants that influence acceptance towards e-wallet apps by extending the technology acceptance model (TAM) among (asnaf), a term used for charity or gift receivers from alms tax distribution institutions also known as donee.

Design/methodology/approach

The review of literature and structural equation modelling approach using judgemental sampling on extended TAM and determinants of e-wallet apps’ acceptance related to asnaf (donee) were conducted in a bid to contribute to the factors that are instrumental in determining acceptance of e-wallet services among asnaf.

Findings

The findings indicate that the e-wallet app’s service acceptance is determined not only by perceived usefulness, consumer maqasid index and consumer innovativeness but also by subjective norms. On the contrary, consumer maqasid index and perceived ease of use do not lend themselves to be the factor of asnafs’ e-wallet acceptance. The authors extend the TAM model to determine the factors that may be influential in predicting the e-wallet app acceptance by asnaf.

Research limitations/implications

In assessing future outcomes when different sampling techniques are opted for and geographic coverage is expanded, this study should be considered in terms of the limited scope.

Practical implications

This study is intended to serve as a reference for making a significant contribution related to user acceptance factors related to alms tax-based e-wallet apps in asnafs’ context in Malaysia in terms of both theory and practice.

Originality/value

TAM is extended in the context of e-wallet app acceptance among asnafs’. A variable, namely, consumer innovativeness, is tested using the extended TAM model. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, consumer innovativeness in the context of asnafs’ acceptance of e-wallet apps is yet to be tested. Therefore, this paper will be a useful reference for policymakers, technologists, academicians and future researchers.
Campus sustainability, organizational learning and sustainability reporting: an empirical analysis
Authors: Washington-Ottombre Camille
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Studies have shown that higher education institutions (HEIs) need to achieve deep organizational learning to develop and implement long-term strategies for responding to the climate crisis. This study aims to analyze the sustainability efforts of HEIs, in particular those who use the sustainability tracking, assessment and rating system (STARS), to ascertain what type of organizational learning is being achieved.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper does this by analyzing perceptions of learning amongst this group of HEIs. More specifically, it analyzes survey data regarding perceptions of types and system levels of organizational learning achieved by 116 HEIs in the USA that currently use or have used STARS in the past. The approach also aims to develop a macro view of the relationships between practicing campus sustainability, using sustainability reporting tools and learning as an organization.

Findings

An examination of the practice of campus sustainability and its relationship to organizational learning reveals that the use of sustainability reporting promotes broad learning, but deep learning at the level of the organization is seldom achieved.

Practical implications

Given the success of using sustainability reporting tools to diffuse knowledge and foster broad learning, this paper argues that such tools should incorporate more metrics relative to soft organizational characteristics of HEIs to shift organizational cultures and foster deeper organizational learning.

Originality/value

This work constitutes one of the few studies analyzing empirical data on campus sustainability, sustainability reporting and organizational learning for a large number of HEIs.
Influence of pre-existing cracks and concrete cover on service life of reinforced concrete and mechanical behaviour of corroded rebars
Authors: Yadeta Kuleni Fekadu , Siriwardane Sudath C. , Mohammed Tesfaye Alemu , Lemu Hirpa G.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Incorporating pre-existing crack in service life prediction of reinforced concrete structures subjected to corrosion is crucial for accurate assessment, realistic modelling and effective decision-making in terms of maintenance and repair strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

An accelerated corrosion test was conducted by using impressed current method on cylindrical specimens with varying cover thickness and crack width. Mechanical properties of the specimens were evaluated by tensile tests.

Findings

The results show that, the pre-cracked samples exhibited shorter concrete cover cracking times, particularly with wider cracks when compared to the uncracked samples. Moreover, the load-bearing capacity of the reinforcement bars decreased owing to the pre-cracks, causing structural deflection and a shortened yield plateau. However, the ductility index remained consistent across all sample types, implying that the concrete had good overall ductility. Comparing the results of the non-corroded rebar and corroded rebar samples, the maximum reduction in the yield load was 25.22%, whereas the maximum reduction in the ultimate load was 26.23%. The simple mathematical model proposed in this study provides a reliable method for predicting the chloride ion diffusion coefficient in cracked concrete of existing reinforced concrete structures.

Originality/value

A simple mathematical model was proposed for evaluation of the equivalent chloride ion diffusion coefficient considering crack width, average crack spacing and crack extending lengths for cracked reinforced concrete structures, which is used to incorporate existing crack in service life prediction models.
Internal communication and family business: a perspective article
Authors: Baumgart Annika , Bell Robin , Wiid Ria
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Family businesses require internal communication (IC) to guide and provide direction, and the unique nature of involving both family and nonfamily employees add complexity. Navigating this complexity helps to ensure effective direction and management of family businesses. This paper explores the existing research concerning IC within family businesses and discusses the lenses and contexts through which it is commonly studied.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a concise literature review to identify the most common lenses through which IC in family business has been researched.

Findings

IC in family enterprises is mostly studied through the lenses of IC between family generations, IC and the influence on family identity, and IC in times of crises. Existing research is largely focused on the role of family in IC, and limited consideration is given to the role of nonfamily members and family members outside of the business.

Originality/value

The paper synthesizes the direction and findings of existing research into IC within family business and provides avenues for future research. Managerial implications are also presented based on the synthesis of existing literature.
Artificial intelligence capabilities, dynamic capabilities and organizational creativity: contributing factors to the United Arab Emirates Government’s organizational performance
Authors: Almheiri Hamad Mohamed , Ahmad Syed Zamberi , Abu Bakar Abdul Rahim , Khalid Khalizani
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a scale measuring artificial intelligence capabilities by using the resource-based theory. It seeks to examine the impact of these capabilities on the organizational-level resources of dynamic capabilities and organizational creativity, ultimately influencing the overall performance of government organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The calibration of artificial intelligence capabilities scale was conducted using a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis tools. A set of 26 initial items was formed in the qualitative study. In the quantitative study, self-reported data obtained from 344 public managers was used for the purposes of refining and validating the scale. Hypothesis testing is carried out to examine the relationship between theoretical constructs for the purpose of nomological testing.

Findings

Results provide empirical evidence that the presence of artificial intelligence capabilities positively and significantly impacts dynamic capabilities, organizational creativity and performance. Dynamic capabilities also found to partially mediate artificial intelligence capabilities relationship with organizational creativity and performance, and organizational creativity partially mediates dynamic capabilities – organizational creativity link.

Practical implications

The application of artificial intelligence holds promise for improving decision-making and problem-solving processes, thereby increasing the perceived value of public service. This can be achieved through the implementation of regulatory frameworks that serve as a blueprint for enhancing value and performance.

Originality/value

There are a limited number of studies on artificial intelligence capabilities conducted in the government sector, and these studies often present conflicting and inconclusive findings. Moreover, these studies indicate literature has not adequately explored the significance of organizational-level complementarity resources in facilitating the development of unique capabilities within government organizations. This paper presents a framework that can be used by government organizations to assess their artificial intelligence capabilities-organizational performance relation, drawing on the resource-based theory.
Ambidexterity of HR practices in fortune 500 companies and employee innovation performance: mediating role of inclusive leadership
Authors: Ahmed Fawad , Hu Wei , Arslan Ahmad , Huang Haoyu
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Human resource management (HRM) practices must take an ambidextrous approach because of changing work environments and challenges. Ambidextrous practices in HRM fall in the domain of developing expertise for complex environments and reducing ambiguities in present turbulent times. Dual-oriented ambidextrous human resource practices (AHRP) can promote employee innovation performance. Drawing on social exchange theory to explore the impact of AHRP on employee innovation performance, this paper examines the mediating role of inclusive leadership style.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a questionnaire from employees of three Fortune 500 Chinese companies from the telecom, electronics and automotive sectors with temporal separation in two waves. The final sample constituted 276 useable responses.

Findings

Results indicate that ambidextrous HR practices have a significant impact on innovation performance, and an inclusive leadership style mediates this relationship, together explaining a 27.8% variance.

Originality/value

This paper examines the effect of dual-oriented AHRPs in the emerging markets context as a guide to best practices for managers to employ ambidexterity in HRM to enhance employees' innovation performance by enhancing both commitment as well as cooperation simultaneously.
From rhetoric to reality: shaping doctoral education in China for global higher education
Authors: Zhang Juan , Gao Xi , Hong Xi , Coates Hamish
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Although doctoral education has experienced substantial development in recent decades, it remains an elite, hence fragile, dimension of university policy and practice. This study aims to articulate perspectives to guide the next phase of strengthening and growth.

Design/methodology/approach

Working from theoretical and empirical research conducted in China, including scholarship on workforce ecosystems, education design and the student experience, this study contributes a framework with qualitative insights which clarify the goals and experiences of doctoral education in ways that will render it more relevant, effective and contributing.

Findings

The paper identifies areas for doctoral reform to ensure career readiness, including three distinctive outcomes and four indispensable experiences.

Originality/value

This study advances a doctoral design framework which can render transparent the substance of programs and prompt program coordinators to develop and ensure career relevance.
Millennials’ interactions with social media content on cruise tourism
Authors: Kim Bona , Lei Sut Ieng
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The cruise industry has used technology to attract more millennials than ever before. The progression of social media has transformed the way young individuals gather information for their travel decision-making. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of the characteristics of social media – Instagram – on millennials’ trust in and attitudes toward social media content and their behavioral intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered survey was designed to test the study model, and 323 responses collected were deemed valid for main data analysis.

Findings

The results revealed that perceived enjoyment of content is a powerful antecedent of trust, attitudes and behavioral intentions. Content quality is a strong predictor of trust but has no meaningful effect on attitudes and behavioral intentions.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this study contributes to the research in the tourism literature on social media and cruise marketing based on integrating into the technology acceptance model, the characteristics of social media content and trust based on commitment-trust theory. This study can help cruise operators use Instagram to influence millennials and suggests significant implications based on social media interactions with millennials.
Risk of stillbirth after a previous caesarean delivery: A Swedish nationwide cohort study
Authors: Al Khalaf Sukainah Y. , Heazell Alexander E. P. , Kublickas Marius , Kublickiene Karolina , Khashan Ali S.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To investigate the risk of stillbirth in relation to (1) a previous caesarean delivery (CD) compared with those following a vaginal birth (VB); and (2) vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) compared with a repeat CD.

Design

Population‐based cohort study.

Setting

The Swedish Medical Birth registry.

Population

Women with their first and second singletons between 1982 and 2012.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the association between CD in the first pregnancy and stillbirth in the second pregnancy and the association between VBAC and stillbirth. Sub‐group analyses were performed by types of CD and timing of stillbirth (antepartum and intrapartum).

Main outcome measures

Stillbirth (antepartum and intrapartum fetal death).

Results

Of the 1 771 700 singleton births from 885 850 women, 117 114 (13.2%) women had a CD in the first pregnancy, and 51 755 had VBAC in the second pregnancy. We found a 37% increased odds of stillbirth (aOR 1.37; 95% CI 1.23–1.52) in women with a previous CD compared with VB. The odds of intrapartum stillbirth were higher in the previous pre‐labour CD group (aOR 2.72; 95% CI 1.51–4.91) and in the previous in‐labour CD group (aOR 1.35; 95% CI 0.76–2.40), although not statistically significant in the latter case. No increased odds were found for intrapartum stillbirth in women who had VBAC (aOR 0.99; 95% CI 0.48–2.06) compared with women who had a repeat CD.

Conclusions

This study confirms that a CD is associated with an increased risk of subsequent stillbirth, with a greater risk among pre‐labour CD. This association is not solely mediated by increases in intrapartum asphyxia, uterine rupture or attempted VBAC. Further research is needed to understand this association, but these findings might help healthcare providers to reach optimal decisions regarding mode of birth, particularly when CD is unnecessary.
Maternal and neonatal morbidity associated with Fetal Pillow® use at full dilatation caesarean: A retrospective cohort
Authors: Sadler Lynn C. , Thompson John M. D. , Alsweiler Jane M. , McKinlay Christopher J. D. , Cronin Robin , Browne Erena , Baillie‐Bellew Thea , Harvey Amanda D. , Hill Meghan G.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate associations of the Fetal Pillow® with maternal and neonatal morbidity.

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Two tertiary maternity units, New Zealand.

Population or Sample

Full dilatation singleton, term, cephalic caesarean section, with three comparisons: at Unit A (1) before versus after introduction of the Fetal Pillow® (1 Jaunary 2016–31 October 2021); (2) with versus without the Fetal Pillow® after introduction (27 July 2017–31 October 2021); and (3) between Unit A and Unit B during the same time period (1 January 2019–31 October 2021). The Fetal Pillow® is unavailable at Unit B.

Methods

Cases were ascertained and clinical data were extracted from electronic clinical databases and records. Outcome data were adjusted and presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% CI.

Main Outcome Measures

Primary outcome “any” uterine incision extension; secondary outcomes included major extension (into adjacent structures), and a composite neonatal outcome.

Results

In all, 1703 caesareans were included; 375 with the device and 1328 without. Uterine incision extension rates were: at Unit A before versus after introduction: 26.8% versus 24.8% (aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.65–1.19); at Unit A with the Fetal Pillow® versus without: 26.1% versus 23.8% (aOR 1.14, 95% CI 0.83–1.57); and at Unit A versus Unit B: 24.2% versus 29.2% (aOR 0.73, 95% CI 0.54–0.99). No differences were found in major extensions, or neonatal composite outcome.

Conclusions

Despite the relatively large size of this study, it could not rule out either a positive or a negative association between use of the Fetal Pillow® and uterine extensions, major uterine incision extensions, and neonatal morbidity. Randomised controlled trial evidence is required to assess efficacy.
Revisiting natural resources and financial development nexus in China under the lens of time‐frequency approach
Authors: Wang Zhaohan , Ali Kishwar , Ullah Sami
Published: January 2024

Examining the relationship between natural resources and financial development (FD) has been a crucial research area for several years. This study examines the time‐ and frequency‐varying influence of natural resources on FD in China under the “resource curse” concept. In contrast to previous studies, additional economic factors such as economic policy uncertainty (EPU), technological innovation, gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), and government stability (GS) are also considered in the model. Wavelet approaches were used to examine the time‐ and frequency‐based nexus among the variables, covering the period from 1995 to 2021. The outcomes indicate an adverse impact of natural resources on FD in long‐term frequencies during the analyzed period, confirming the “resources curse” in China. The other variables, including technological innovation, gross fixed capital formation, and government stability, are positively linked, while EPU is negatively linked to FD. The policy implications of this study highlight the need for effective resource management, amplifying technological innovation, and efficient governments to spur FD in China.
Long term methionine restriction: Influence on gut microbiome and metabolic characteristics
Authors: Nagarajan Akash , Lasher Alexander Tate , Morrow Casey D. , Sun Liou Y.
Published: January 2024

The Methionine restriction (MR) diet has been shown to delay aging and extend lifespan in various model organisms. However, the long‐term effects of MR diet on the gut microbiome composition remain unclear. To study this, male mice were started on MR and control diet regimens at 6 months and continued until 22 months of age. MR mice have reduced body weight, fat mass percentage, and bone mineral density while having increased lean mass percentage. MR mice also have increased insulin sensitivity along with increasing indirect calorimetry markers such as energy expenditure, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and glucose oxidation. Fecal samples were collected at 1 week, 18 weeks, and 57 weeks after the diet onset for 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to study the gut microbiome composition. Alpha and beta diversity metrics detected changes occurring due to the timepoint variable, but no changes were detected due to the diet variable. The results from LEfSe analysis surprisingly showed that more bacterial taxa changes were linked to age rather than diet. Interestingly, we found that the long‐term MR diet feeding induced smaller changes compared to short‐term feeding. Specific taxa changes due to the diet were observed at the 1 or 18‐week time points, including Ileibacterium, Odoribacter, Lachnoclostridium, Marinifilaceae, and Lactobacillaceae. Furthermore, there were consistent aging‐associated changes across both groups, with an increase in Ileibacterium and Erysipelotrichaceae with age, while Eubacterium_coprostanoligenes_group, Ruminococcaceae, Peptococcaceae, and Peptococcus decreased with age.
Dietary restriction‐induced alterations on estrogen receptor alpha expression in regulating fertility in male Coturnix coturnix japonica: Relevance of Withania somnifera in modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress in testis
Authors: Baghel Kalpana , Azam Zaffar , Srivastava Rashmi
Published: January 2024

Problem

Reproductive performance of animals gets affected by nutritional restrictions which act as potential stressors leading to hormonal imbalance and testicular inflammation, the major causes of infertility. Withania somnifera (WS), well‐known traditional medicinal plant, has been used as antistress and infertility treatment. Therefore, the present study looks into the ameliorative effects of WS on the reproductive and immune system of male Coturnix coturnix japonica in stressed conditions like water and food restriction focussing on the modulation in estrogen receptor alpha (ERα).

Method of study

Biochemical estimations for oxidative stress, histological alterations, immuno‐fluorescent localization of ERα, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐4, and interferon gamma (IFN‐γ) in testicular cells were performed.

Results

Nutritional restriction declines endogenous estradiol, ERα in testicular cells while it elevates corticosterone leading to oxidative stress in testis thereby reducing fertility by decrease in sperm. Results indicate significant reversal in all the parameters after the administration of WS by improving testicular cell morphology, increased superoxide and catalase activity thus reducing oxidative stress. WS increases spermatogenesis and enhances expression of ERα in testicular cells in quail. Further, WS increases IL‐4, decreases IL‐1β and IFN‐γ expression in testis, thereby improving immune profile contrary to stressed conditions.

Conclusion

WS stimulates HPG‐axis even after stress resulting in increased endogenous estradiol which stimulates the expression of ERα in testis; increases sperm count and immunity thereby improving the reproductive performance. WS may be the best therapy against nutritional‐restriction stress induced reproductive toxicity by reducing oxidative stress mediated inflammatory response via increased testicular expression of ERα in quail.
Low dietary carbohydrate induces structural alterations in enterocytes of the chicken ileum
Authors: Salahuddin Md , Hiramatsu Kohzy , Al‐Amin Md , Imai Yuriko , Kita Kazumi
Published: January 2024

We investigated the role of dietary carbohydrates in the maintenance of the enterocyte microvillar structure in the chicken ileum. Male chickens were divided into the control and three experimental groups, and the experimental groups were fed diets containing 50%, 25%, and 0% carbohydrates of the control diet. The structural alterations in enterocytes were examined using transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescent techniques for β‐actin and villin. Glucagon‐like peptide (GLP)‐2 and proglucagon mRNA were detected by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization, respectively. Fragmentation and wide gap spaces were frequently observed in the microvilli of the 25% and 0% groups. The length, width, and density of microvilli were also decreased in the experimental groups. The experimental groups had shorter terminal web extensions, and there were substantial changes in the mitochondrial density between the control and experimental groups. Intensities of β‐actin and villin immunofluorescence observed on the apical surface of enterocytes were lower in the 0% group. The frequency of GLP‐2‐immunoreactive and proglucagon mRNA‐expressing cells decreased with declining dietary carbohydrate levels. This study revealed that dietary carbohydrates contribute to the structural maintenance of enterocyte microvilli in the chicken ileum. The data from immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization assays suggest the participation of GLP‐2 in this maintenance system.
Alveolar ridge preservation of two‐wall bone defects using mineralized dentin matrix: An experimental pre‐clinical study
Authors: Yan Zi‐Yu , Wang Fei , Han Jian‐Min , Wu Bin‐Zhang , Guo Chuan‐Bin , Cui Nian‐Hui
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To study bone healing of two‐wall bone defects after alveolar ridge preservation using mineralized dentin matrix.

Materials and Methods

After distal roots extraction of second and fourth premolars (P2, P4) on one lateral mandible in 12 beagles, two‐wall bone defects (5 × 5 × 5 mm) were surgically created distally to the remaining mesial roots of P2 and P4. A total of 24 sites were randomly allocated to three groups (implant material‐ time of execution): mineralized dentin matrix (MDM)‐3 m (MDM + collagen membrane; 3 months), MDM‐6 m (MDM particles + collagen membrane; 6 months), and C‐6 m (collagen membrane only; 6 months). Clinical, radiographic, digital, and histological examinations were performed 3 and 6 months after surgery.

Results

The bone healing in MDM groups were better compared to Control group (volume of bone regenerated in total: 25.12 mm3 vs. 13.30 mm3, p = .046; trabecular volume/total volume: 58.84% vs. 39.18%, p = .001; new bone formation rate: 44.13% vs. 31.88%, p = .047). Vertically, the radiological bone level of bone defect in MDM‐6 m group was higher than that in C‐6 m group (vertical height of bone defect: 1.55 mm vs. 2.74 mm, p = .018). Horizontally, no significant differences in buccolingual bone width were found between MDM and C groups at any time or at any level below the alveolar ridge. The percentages of remaining MDM were <1% in both MDM‐3 m and MDM‐6 m groups.

Conclusions

MDM improved bone healing of two‐wall bone defects and might be considered as a socket fill material used following tooth extraction.
An implementation science focused practice‐based research network for rural community pharmacies: RURAL‐CP
Authors: Carpenter Delesha M. , Kiser Stephanie , Smith Megan , Mashburn Patricia , Westrick Salisa C. , Hastings Tessa J. , Hannings Ashley , Rosenthal Meagen , Baloh Jure , Gamble Abigail , Melton Tyler C. , Curran Geoffrey M.
Published: January 2024

Practice‐based research networks (PBRNs) support the translation and evaluation of evidence‐based practices and interventions on a large scale and have primarily been used in primary care settings. Few pharmacy PBRNs exist. Our objective is to describe the composition and characteristics of the Rural Research Alliance of Community Pharmacies (RURAL‐CP), which is the first PBRN exclusively for rural community pharmacies. For each enrolled pharmacy, a pharmacist liaison completed a survey that assessed the pharmacy's operational characteristics, including business operations, human resource management, division of clinical responsibilities, technology and enhanced services, organizational context, and research priorities. Additionally, up to five other pharmacy staff members completed a brief survey on organizational context. Descriptive statistics were calculated. As of May 2023, there were 126 pharmacies across seven southeastern states that were enrolled in RURAL‐CP. Most pharmacies (91%) were independent pharmacies and operated 6 days per week (82%). On average, pharmacies employed 10 staff members and most trained student pharmacists. Pharmacies offered valuable services in their community, including immunizations, naloxone dispensing, and medication delivery. Blood glucose testing was the most common point‐of‐care (POC) test offered, and most pharmacies were interested in expanding POC offerings, particularly A1c testing and cholesterol screening. RURAL‐CP pharmacies have, on average, relatively strong organizational contexts and readiness for change. Pharmacists' top research priorities were expansion of clinical services, reimbursement, patient adherence, and addressing diabetes and hypertension. Although not generalizable to all rural pharmacies, results indicate that rural pharmacies deliver many important services in their communities and are interested in increasing services provided.
A SWOT analysis of integrating cognitive and non‐cognitive learning strategies in education
Authors: Upreti Kamal , Kushwah Virendra Singh , Vats Prashant , Alam Md. Shane , Singhai Rahul , Jain Dhyanendra , Tiwari Akhilesh
Published: January 2024

Students must receive the knowledge and skills they require for succeeding in a constantly changing world. Meeting each student's diverse needs, nevertheless, is difficult. For the purpose to promote student development and improve educational outcomes, this review study attempts to give a thorough conceptual framework for integrating both cognitive and non‐cognitive learning methodologies. While non‐cognitive learning focuses on social and interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and resilience, cognitive learning involves the acquisition of intellectual skills and critical thinking. Both types of education are essential for children's holistic development. Integrating non‐cognitive and cognitive approaches in education sector has several advantages. It promotes a well‐rounded education by offering a balanced approach that addresses the intellectual, emotional, and social elements of student progress. To support the suggested conceptual framework, a thorough analysis of recent research on the subject is conducted. The implementation of cognitive and non‐cognitive learning in the present condition is examined through a bibliometric analysis, which identifies research trends and gaps. In addition, a SWOT analysis has been done to assess the advantages, disadvantages, opportunities, and threats related to these strategies. The issues and areas that require additional research and development are better understood due to this analysis. The research's conclusions demonstrate the importance of adopting a well‐rounded educational strategy which considers various demands of students. The education system can encourage academic performance, critical thinking, socio‐emotional well‐being, and prepare students for success in a variety of spheres of life by integrating cognitive and non‐cognitive learning. It also points out the research gaps and underlines the value of further study for enhancing comprehension and cognitive and non‐cognitive learning methodologies' application.
Experimental and numerical investigation of ductile fracture of K418 on in‐situ tensile tests
Authors: Li Bin , Cui Yi , Wang Shinian , Gao Lining , Xu Zhaohui , Hou Xinrong , Li Yafen
Published: January 2024

In this study, the effect of the Lode angle on failure and plasticity is considered, and a new Lode angle function on plasticity is developed. Meanwhile, a new temperature coefficient function is proposed in this model, and the application of the model is extended to the range from room temperature to 650°C. The tensile specimens of different shapes have been designed to calibrate the parameters of the model. The tensile tests are carried out on the in situ micro‐tensile machine. For the notched tensile specimens at room temperature to validate the constitutive model, numerical results are consistent with experimental ones well, with an error of 7%. Then, the calibrated model is applied to FE simulations to numerically study the fracture phenomena observed in the test. The fracture positions and damage initiation positions of the shear specimen and the notched tensile specimen can be predicted by FE simulations well, while the smooth tensile specimen cannot be predicted well due to real specimens' imperfections.
Enameloid‐bound δ15N reveals large trophic separation among Late Cretaceous sharks in the northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Comans Chelsea M. , Smart Sandi M. , Kast Emma R. , Lu YueHan , Lüdecke Tina , Leichliter Jennifer N. , Sigman Daniel M. , Ikejiri Takehito , Martínez‐García Alfredo
Published: January 2024

The nitrogen isotopic composition (15N/14N ratio, or δ15N) of enameloid‐bound organic matter (δ15NEB) in shark teeth was recently developed to investigate the biogeochemistry and trophic structures (i.e., food webs) of the ancient ocean. Using δ15NEB, we present the first nitrogen isotopic evidence for trophic differences between shark taxa from a single fossil locality. We analyze the teeth of four taxa (Meristodonoides, Ptychodus, Scapanorhynchus, and Squalicorax) from the Late Cretaceous (83–84 Ma) Trussells Creek site in Alabama, USA, and compare the N isotopic findings with predictions from tooth morphology, the traditional method for inferring shark paleo‐diets. Our δ15NEB data indicate two distinct trophic groups, with averages separated by 6.1 ± 2.1‰. The lower group consists of Meristodonoides and Ptychodus, and the higher group consists of Scapanorhynchus and Squalicorax (i.e., lamniforms). This δ15NEB difference indicates a 1.5 ± 0.5 trophic‐level separation between the two groups, a finding that is in line with paleontological predictions of a higher trophic level for these lamniforms over Meristodonoides and Ptychodus. However, the δ15NEB of Meristodonoides is lower than suggested by tooth morphology, although consistent with mechanical tests suggesting that higher trophic‐level bony fishes were not a major component of their diet. Further, δ15NEB indicates that the two sampled lamniform taxa fed at similar trophic levels despite their different inferred tooth functions. These two findings suggest that tooth morphology alone may not always be a sufficient indicator of dietary niche. The large trophic separation revealed by the δ15NEB offset leaves open the possibility that higher trophic‐level lamniforms, such as those measured here, preyed upon smaller, lower trophic‐level sharks like Meristodonoides.
Exploring the Tradeoff Between Privacy and Utility of Complete‐count Census Data Using a Multiobjective Optimization Approach
Authors: Lin Yue , Xiao Ningchuan
Published: January 2024

Privacy and utility are two important objectives to consider when releasing census data. However, these two objectives are often conflicting, as protecting privacy usually necessitates introducing noise into the data, which compromises data utility. Determining the appropriate level of privacy protection presents a significant challenge in the data release. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the tradeoff between privacy and utility before making a final decision on the level of privacy protection. In this article, we propose a multiobjective optimization framework to generate multiple optimal solutions that satisfy the two objectives of privacy and utility, as well as to analyze the tradeoff between privacy and utility for decision‐making. This framework relocates individuals susceptible to revealing their identities to protect their privacy. We maximize the number of individuals relocated while maximizing the utility of the data after relocations. The proposed framework is tested using synthetic population data in Franklin County, Ohio. Our experimental results show that the framework can efficiently generate a collection of optimal solutions and can be used to effectively balance privacy and utility.
The ‘woeful’ state of administrative support for online programmes: A critical discourse analysis
Authors: Bodine Al‐Sharif Mary Ann , Earnshaw Yvonne , Corcoran Stephanie
Published: January 2024

This study used critical discourse analysis to explore how higher education administrators in the United States talk about how they assess and support online programmes. Specifically, we hoped to analyse administrators' perceptions of their responsibilities over online programmes, faculty and students, to attain where they may need more training. Therefore, we explored the perspectives of 11 administrators at both the mid‐level administrative and campus senior administrative levels who oversee online programmes in U.S. higher education. Our findings suggest that mid‐level administrators hold pivotal roles in communicating needs, administrators are not viewing their online faculty holistically, current online programmes assessment is insufficient and concern for student engagement is often neglected. Implications for research and practice include additional investigation of the online faculty experience and the development of administrative training specifically focused on the needs of online programming and online faculty support.
Effect of heavy rare‐earth substitution on physical properties of BiFeO3 thin films and their photocatalytic application
Authors: Gholizadeh Ahmad , Hosseini Sakineh
Published: January 2024

Herein, heavy rare‐earth substituted bismuth ferrite thin films were prepared using a low‐temperature sol–gel‐assisted spin coating method. The substitution of heavy rare‐earth ions for Bi3+ leads to structural transformation from rhombohedral (R3c) for x = 0.05 to orthorhombic (Pnma) symmetry for x = 0.05, which was found to have a great effect on the surface morphology, optical band‐gap energy, and photocatalytic activity of a BiFeO3(BFO) thin film. Moreover, the optical properties of prepared films were investigated via UV–visible spectroscopy. For all samples, the bandgap energy values were between 1.18 and 1.65 eV. Moreover, the refractive index and extinction coefficient of samples were about 1.14–1.40 and 0.1–0.6, respectively. Photocatalytic properties of the samples were investigated by measuring the degradation of methylene blue dye under simulated solar irradiation. We found that the heavy rare‐earth substituted BFO thin films have better photocatalytic activity compared to pure BiFeO3 thin film. It was observed that prepared thin films could remove between 37.18% and 77.24% of dye after 180 min irradiation. This study confirms that prepared thin films are a suitable candidate for photocatalytic applications.
Unveiling the influence of crystal structure polymorphs on radiation shielding properties: A case study of SiO2
Authors: Khattari Ziad
Published: January 2024

Material's linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) and atomic packing factor (APF) play a crucial role in shield and protecting against radiations hazardous. This seminal study highlights that changing the crystalline polymorphism structures of a material from orthorhombic at low APF to tetragonal or hexagonal at high APF can lead to rise in both density and LAC. These results demonstrate that altering the material's crystalline structures and the corresponding APF will directly impact these two vital physical parameters. Specifically, for the studied case of SiO2, the findings reveal a 29% increase in the LAC when transitioning from orthorhombic to hexagonal occurs and 118% when undergoes structural changes back to the same symmetry group but with different density and APF. These advancements enhance the material's capacity to be utilized for radiation shielding and prevention applications.
Out‐of‐School Activities in Architectural Education: MUISCARCH International Architecture Students Congress
Authors: Cantürk Akyildiz Emel , Özgüven Yekta
Published: January 2024

This research aims to question the effect of adopting non‐formal and informal learning environments into architectural education on the overall learning experiences of architecture students. In this context, a series of out‐of‐school activities organised within the scope of Maltepe University, Faculty of Architecture and Design, which are based on a variety of different non‐formal and informal learning methods, are discussed. Although there are various out‐of‐school activities, the significance of these comprehensive extracurricular activities relies on being an entire student initiative from planning to execution and consisting of symposiums, workshops and organisation processes that bring non‐formal and informal learning experiences together. Unlike most of the research discussing non‐formal/in‐formal activities through final products, our research focuses on the learning experience of the students and the learning process itself. Based on the participant observation method, we gathered data through observing behaviours and interactions, casual conversations, unstructured and informal interviews, and reviews of the participants' studies. The findings revealed the learning acquisitions and benefits that students gained intentionally or unintentionally throughout the process from integrated learning environments, which are required to compete with the complex challenges of architectural education and the profession, as emerging technologies, materials, design trends and societal conditions. This reality forces architectural education programs to embrace and integrate informal and non‐formal learning experiences into their curricula. Flexible learning models need to be designed and adapted to formal education to provide a well‐rounded educational experience for architecture students, emphasising self‐directed learning and practical experience in real‐world contexts.
Birthweight and risk of diabetes in later life
Authors: Sheu Wayne Huey‐Herng
Published: January 2024

Compared with normative birthweight persons, individuals with a lower birthweight had a higher chance of developing type 2 diabetes at a younger age, a lower body mass index at diagnosis, a lesser family history of diabetes and greater probability of comorbidities.