bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi-perspective qualitative exploration of the reasons for changes in the physical activity among 10–11-year-old children following the easing of the COVID-19 lockdown in the UK in 2021
Authors: Jago Russell , House Danielle , Salway Ruth , Walker Robert , Emm-Collison Lydia , Sansum Kate , Breheny Katie , Churchward Sarah , Williams Joanna G , Hollingworth William , de Vocht Frank
Published: December 2024

Background

Active-6 is exploring how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted physical activity behaviour among Year 6 children (aged 10–11 years) and their parents in Southwest England. Initial findings from the Active-6 project have shown a 7–8 min decrease in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and an increase in sedentary behaviour among children following the easing of restrictions in the UK in latter half of 2021. This finding suggests that the pandemic has had a persistent impact on child physical activity behaviour. This paper explored the possible mechanisms behind these changes.

Methods

Interviews with parents (n = 21), members of school staff (n = 9) and focus groups with children aged 10–11 years (n = 47) were conducted between August and December 2021 to discuss the impact of the pandemic on child physical activity behaviour. The framework method was used for analysis.

Results

Five themes spanning two key stages of the pandemic were described. Three themes related to the period of lockdowns and fluctuating restrictions (March 2020 – April 2021). These included: Theme 1) Lockdown: A short-lived adventure; Theme 2) Access to facilities during restrictions; and Theme 3) The importance of the parent. A further two themes were identified related to the period following the gradual easing of restrictions in April 2021. These included: Theme 4) An overwhelming return to normal; and Theme 5) Reopening fatigue.

Conclusions

The analysis suggested that feelings of novelty experienced during the initial stages of lockdown waned as restrictions were prolonged, creating an increasingly challenging period for parents and their children. However, during periods of restrictions, the importance of parental encouragement and access to appropriate facilities in the local and home environment helped facilitate physical activity. Following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, emotional overwhelm and physical fatigue among children, stemming from a sedentary and socially isolated life in lockdown and other restrictions, were key contributors to the decreased moderate to vigorous physical activity and increased sedentary behaviour that was observed in a related quantitative study.
Mystical Terms in Johannes Altenstaig’s Vocabularius theologiae (1517)
Authors: Dubbelman Samuel J. , Zoutendam Erin Risch
Published: December 2024

This article contributes to the study of Christian mysticism in the sixteenth century by providing translations of mystical terms from Johannes Altenstaig’s Vocabularius theologiae (1517), including extasis, devotio, contemplatio, meditatio, mysticum, orare/oratio, raptus, theologia mystica, and unio. The introduction offers an overview of Altenstaig’s biography and the theological dictionary and highlights the significance of compilations, particularly those intended for student use, in reconstructing the fundamental characteristics of mystical theology on the eve of the Reformation. The notes to the translations provide a detailed analysis of the sources used by Altenstaig, suggesting the frequent use of recent compilations rather than the original classical texts.
The Celestial Body Language Implied by the Ayers Rock Tasmania and Main Island of Australia
Authors:   Department of Testing, Jiangsu Guojian Testing Technology Co., Ltd. China, Yan Henghua
Published: December 2024

The Ayers Rock of Australia, which is known for its charming colors at different time, is actually the Celestial Body Ring
of the planet Earth that implies the great Celestial Body Love happened on Earth long long ago. The Tasmania island
of Australia which is known for the World Heart is actually in the state of face to face with the main island of Australia,
which implies the image spokesperson for the inner core (the heart) of the planet Earth. In other words, with the outline
of the main island of Australia, the basic key information of the inner core of the planet Earth could be easily obtained
by deducing logically, just like the similarity between the fists and heart of human body. Similar to the mechanism of the
blood circulation dominated by the heart of human body, it is dominated and motivated by the inner core of the Earth
which forms the circulation of mantle magma between the crust and the inner core, and what leads to the formation of
expanding and active area on the equatorial and middle-lower latitude area and the silent and convergent area on the
North and South Pole central area. Therefore, the mantle magma whirlpools under the crust on the North and South Pole
are supposed to exist logically. The walking sideways of the crabs just implies the celestial body language of the motive
trend of the main island of Australia based on their similar outline.
The Effectiveness of Metaverse in e-Learning
Authors:   Faculty of Electr. Eng., Mathematics and Computer Science (EEMCS), Delft University of Technology, Netherlands, Koppelaar Henk , Tabrizi Sina Sayardoost ,   Dept of Management and Economic Science, University of Guilan, Iran, Etaati Asal ,   Kish International Campus, University of Tehran, Iran, Moeini Ali ,   School of Eng. Science, College of Eng., University of Tehran, Iran
Published: December 2024

Via application of a 3D model to teach students a topic in astronomy, feedback on their experiences was evaluated via a
questionnaire. The purpose of delivering this content via virtual reality was to assess participants' attitudes toward this technology
and identify the factors that influence their willingness to use it. The analysis of students' responses to the questions revealed
that user interface had a significant impact on their attitudes, which in turn indeed increased their willingness to use immersive
technology in e-learning. The study applied the Partial Least Squares (PLS-SEM) analytical method to construct structural
equations. For this purpose, survey data were collected from a comprehensive questionnaire distributed between 122 students of
an educational institute in Iran. All the people present in this institution participated after undergoing special training compatible
with virtual reality and metaverse techniques. So, in this study, the sample is the institute’s population. The results confirm
six hypotheses about positive relationships between facilitating conditions and usability of metaverse technology for students'
attention and study motivation.
A Semiotic Exploration of the Evolving Messaging in the Shona Traditional Songs: The Elusive Context, Categorization and Paralinguistic Features of the Song “Nyama Yekugocha
Authors:   Candidate PhD Management Science in Public Relations and Communication, Durban University of Technology, Zimbabwe, Rafomoyo Fredrick
Published: December 2024

This study employs a semiotic exploration to investigate the evolving categorization and usage of the Shona traditional song
"Nyama Yekugocha." Despite its association with specific occasions, the song's origins and cultural context remain elusive.
The research, utilizing netnography and narrative interviews, aims to unravel the song's shrouded context, dissecting layers
of meaning in its lyrics and exploring paralinguistic features. Acknowledging the song's transformative nature, from a cultural
artifact to a symbol of victory, the study addresses challenges posed by contemporary shifts. The semiotic exploration enriches the
evolving cultural value of "Nyama Yekugocha" within the Shona community and Zimbabwe's intangible heritage.
Effect of Sucrose and Citric Acid in Vase Life of Rose
Authors:   Sai Institute of paramedical and allied science, India, Bist Sagar , Kumar Hom Sanjeet ,   Sai Institute of paramedical and allied science, India
Published: December 2024

Vase life is the foremost vital parameter to decide the quality of cut blooms, in any case, due to its profoundly perishable
nature, it is continuously challenging to vase life. The experiment was conducted at SAI Institute of Paramedical and Allied
Sciences from April 20th to 31st April 2022 to find out the most excellent concentration of sucrose and citric acid that improves
and draws out the blossom quality and longevity. The explore was laid out in a Complete randomized design (CRD) with nine
treatments and six replications. The treatment combination used in research were control, 2 % sucrose + 15 ppm citric acid, 4
% sucrose + 30 ppm citric acid, 6 % sucrose + 45 ppm citric acid, 8 % sucrose + 60 ppm citric acid, 10 % sucrose + 75 ppm
citric acid, 12 % sucrose + 90 ppm citric acid, 14 % sucrose + 105 ppm citric acid and 16 % sucrose + 120 ppm citric acid.
Information were collected on parameters such as water take-up, transpiration loss, weight pick up or misfortune, blossom
breadth, days taken for to begin with petal spreading, days taken for bloom shriveling, days taken for color change, days taken
for to begin with petal discoloration, days for neck bending and vase life. Rose sticks were collected at the bloom bud stage
and two sticks were kept in each vase.2% sucrose with 15 ppm citric acid were found to have the longest days for color alter
at 5.66 days, days for neck bending at 8.66 days, and days for bloom shriveling at 9.33 days. The vase life of 10.66 days, and
this combination has the potential to be utilized as a commercial cut blossom additive to delay blossom senescence, improve
post-harvest quality, and draw out the vase life of cut rose blossoms.
Оn the Issue of Doppler Centroid When Operating SAR Over the Ocean
Authors:   Independent researcher, Canada, Kanevsky Mikhail B
Published: December 2024

Another approach to the problem of determining the Doppler centroid for space borne SAR operating over the ocean is being
considered.
Cancer care for transgender and gender‐diverse people: Practical, literature‐driven recommendations from the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer
Authors: Cathcart‐Rake Elizabeth J. , Chan Alexandre , Menendez Alvaro , Markstrom Denise , Schnitzlein Carla , Chong Yee Won , Dizon Don S.
Published: December 2024

In the United States, over 2 million individuals openly identify with a gender that differs from their sex assigned at birth. A cancer diagnosis is physically and psychologically taxing—and, in some, traumatic. However, for transgender and gender‐diverse (TGD) people, many of whom have experienced discrimination in myriad health care settings, the challenges may be even greater. These recommendations focus on how best to deliver quality cancer care to transgender men (individuals who identify as men but were assigned female sex at birth), transgender women (individuals who identify as women but were assigned male sex at birth), and people who identify somewhere beyond this gender spectrum as nonbinary or using other terms, based on the available, albeit sparse, literature. This review broaches: (1) the epidemiology of cancer in TGD individuals, including the incidence of cancer and cancer‐related mortality; (2) cancer center practices that are welcoming and affirming to TGD patients; (3) the need for awareness and intentionality in the spaces of diagnosis and treatment for cancer; (4) the inevitable conclusion that gender differences exist but much more needs to be learned about the impact of gender‐affirming therapy, consisting of gender‐affirming surgeries and gender‐affirming hormone therapy, on cancer therapy; and (5) the efficacy and perceived safety of antineoplastic therapy and gender‐affirming hormone therapy.
Pięcioksiąg w przekładzie na język karaimski
Authors: Németh Michał
Published: December 2024

Tom ten zawiera pierwsze pełne, drukowane wydanie Pięcioksięgu Mojżeszowego w przekładzie na język Karaimów polsko-litewskich. Tekst wydania oparty jest na najstarszym znanym nam obecnie rękopiśmiennym przekładzie na ten język, zajmującym, dzięki swej unikatowości, ważne miejsce w spuściźnie kulturowej narodu karaimskiego. Rękopis powstał w roku 1720.Podczas redagowania tomu starano się znaleźć złoty środek między jak najwierniejszym zachowaniem oryginalnych cech języka tłumaczenia a stworzeniem wydania w pełni zrozumiałego dla osób znających współczesny język karaimski. Szata fonetyczna przekładu została dostosowana do współczesnej wymowy, w nielicznych przypadkach zapomniane już dawno wyrazy zostały zastąpione ich bardziej zrozumiałymi odpowiednikami. Ujednolicono również zapis wyrazów, które w przekładzie występowały w różnych wariantach. Skorygowane zostały ewidentne błędy pisarskie, zidentyfikowano i poprawiono drobne nieścisłości w przekładzie. Co ważne, wszystkich tych zmian dokonano na podstawie innych istniejących rękopiśmiennych przekładów. Kluczowe znaczenie miało uzupełnienie tekstu o interpunkcję, bowiem karaimskie rękopiśmienne dzieła religijne sporządzone pismem hebrajskim prawie w ogóle nie zawierają znaków interpunkcyjnych.Oddajemy w ręce Czytelnika tom z nadzieją, że będzie on nie tylko interesującą lekturą, ale również narzędziem do praktyki religijnej.Michał Németh
Household Level Water Recycling for Non-Potable Reuse: A Study on Mujgunni Residential Area of Khulna City, Bangladesh
Authors: Salauddin Md
Published: December 2024

The paper examined the possibility and of reusing household’s grey water for non-potable uses as a means for reducing fresh water demand. The study was done in one of the planned residential areas of Khulna city where water demand and consumption is higher than other haphazardly grown areas. The study used two databases and other secondary materials, collected from relevant organizations. In addition personal communication has been made with concerned personnel. The study found that the residence of the study area get 46% supply water compared with only 20% in the whole city. Availability of water increased water consumption up to 300 litres per day per household. A significant amount of water (90%) is used for bathing, washing and cooking. Both the shower and kitchen water goes straight to drainage system to be more polluted with other toxic wastes. On the other hand, supply system is entirely based on ground water and absence of demand management techniques, over-extraction of ground water has been observed. Khulna city and surroundings have been facing salinity and arsenic contaminations in ground water, making it too vulnerable to provide fresh water to its 1.5 million citizens in coming years. Water treatment still remains uncovered in Bangladesh and authorities repeatedly had gone for capital intensive ground water extraction. Keeping in mind the ease, affordability and available technology, dual-reticulated recycling method is thus advised where the grey water will go again for toilet flushing and gardening after minimal treatment. It was assumed that the system will bring the half of the household waste water into use which will eventually reduce demand for fresh water.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 8, Dec 2015, pp. 93-102
Innovating Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Framework for Ensuring Urban Resilience: A Study on Coastal Delta Cities
Authors: Adnan Md Sarfaraz Gani
Published: December 2024

Coastal delta cities are at risk to hydro meteorological hazards especially from flooding. To reduce this risk many cities have built extensive flood defence system that can only reduce the probability of flood occurrence. So, the study is focusing on developing a framework for selecting the most suitable flood risk reduction policies according to the local situation which will ensure resilience. First, from the physical and environmental point of view 10 DRR policies have been identified under three broad approaches based on the DRR initiatives by eleven precedent (model) cities. After that few explanatory variables are selected on the basis of geography, climate, flood hazard, risk magnitude and economic aspects. Then a correlation has been established among DRR policies and explanatory variables and then the pattern of correlations have been explained. The findings of this study show a framework from where appropriate DRR policies can be selected. It has been observed that in a stable political situation, a city can decide to adopt various DRR policies based on geography and climate, hazard pattern, magnitude and experience. The study further reveals that along with structural flood protection, practicing environmental and planning management can reduce the flood risk in coastal cities.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 8, Dec 2015, pp. 123-134
Economic Growth Analysis of Six Divisions of Bangladesh Using Location Quotient and Shift-Share Method
Authors: Islam Faisal Bin , Mubassirah Fabiha Atique , Siddiq Fariba , Hossain Dipita , Sharmin Nusrat , Haque Afsana
Published: December 2024

The structure and performance of industrial sectors of a region is an impelling factor in determining the growth of a region’s economy. In Bangladesh, a great heterogeneity in economic growth exists among different regions along with the administrative divisions. This study investigates the short run and long run spatio-temporal variation of regional economies of the six divisions of Bangladesh. Location Quotient and Shift share method have been employed with gross divisional product and gross domestic product at constant price for the year 1995-96 to 1999-2000 as parameter. The comparative analysis of the six divisions reveals that Fishing and Construction sector have been the most flourishing industries and Real Estate, Renting and Business activities has been lagging for all the six divisions during the timeframe. Barisal district is in economic malaise relative to the other divisions and hence requires special attention to be in pace of consistent economic growth.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 8, Dec 2015, pp. 135-144
Performance Analysis of Public Transport in Khulna City: A Case Study on Journey to Work Purpose
Authors: Rabbi Sanjida , Hossain Kazi Salman , Rahman Saima
Published: December 2024

Public transport is one of the social facilities without which people’s life turned into stagnation and on the contrary, life becomes cozy by providing this facility. It is important to focus on the performance of existing public transport to ensure sustainable transportation system, rather importing more transport. The study finds performance of public transport in Khulna city based on the users, who use it at a regular basis for work purpose. Therefore, to find the performance, Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) has been developed based on some service indicators. An Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) has been done to find the most important services indicators. Therefore, indicators like parking system and safety got more importance according to the method and also by the expert. CSI for Khulna city is measured 0.47 which lies in less satisfactory level. Users of Mahindra (0.47), CNG (0.49), and Auto Rickshaw (0.47) are less satisfied where Baby taxi (0.39) and bus services (0.37) cannot satisfy the users. Separate and powerful institutional authority for transit, public bus with better performance, policy (tax, tariff) for the parking system, online information system/ kiosk and union for the user can be initiated for the improvement of the performance.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 8, Dec 2015, pp. 195-202
Water body restoration and development - A case study of Askar Dighi Water Tank of Chittagong
Authors: Shahjahan A T M , Chowdhury Panini Amin , Ali Mohd Mostakim
Published: December 2024

Askar dighi is a very old water tank of Chittagong, which is now encroached by illegal settlements, and because of the waste dumping activities, its water quality has degraded at a severe level. Although creation of a recreational zone is a crying need for Chittagong, no one pays any attention for utilizing the potential of this majestic dighi. The main objective of this study is to develop some ideas to turn this dighi into a recreational place, followed by designs and a draft budget plan. Improvement of the recreational facilities in the port city is a dying need to restore its heritage and culture. By reviewing various articles and projects, this paper formulates a strategic plan to restore this dighi for the best possible use. A budget plan is developed considering the present day costs and an earning and management strategy is also prepared for this project. GIS Based secondary data and field level primary data has been collected and used for the research. If the improvement plan is executed, the city will not only get a natural recreational open space, but also, it will be a big step forward for sustainable city development. Thus in future, it can be a symbol of glory for the city and a place for healthy living for the urban dwellers.
Journal of Bangladesh Institute of Planners, Vol. 8, Dec 2015, pp. 203-208
Innovative Strategies for Exploring the Potential of China’s Market
Authors: Feng Haidong
Published: December 2024

As the world's second-largest economy, China plays an important role in the development of world trade. With nearly one-fifth of the world's population, China's market has huge trade potential for each country. In the process of expanding exports and investment to China, many countries face a lot of trade barriers due to China's large market span, complex structure, and different consumer preferences, so exploring China’s market has become a difficult research topic for many economists and entrepreneurs. It is also a complicated strategy for different companies choose different cities and regions when entering China’s market or expanding their market share in China. The research subject of this paper is exploring the potential of China’s market, and the research object is three dimensions (geographical, economic, and import potential) analysis of market entry approaches in China. According to the depth, breadth and market potential of China’s market, this paper makes a comprehensive comparison of different methods to enter China’s market. The research results will help a company improve the efficiency of penetrating China’s market. In the conclusion part, this paper summarizes new scientific methods and steps for international companies to explore the potential of China’s market.
Emotional Intelligence as a Key to High Performance Organizations: An Expository Analysis of the Literature
Authors: Davis Michael J.
Published: December 2024

The utility of emotional intelligence has been researched as both a discreet individual ability, and a performance enhancing quality within organizations. This expository analysis synthesizes the existing literature on the value and utility of emotional intelligence within organizations, focusing on enhanced ethics, improvement of leadership capabilities and outcomes, reduction of turnover, enhancement of cross-cultural understanding, reduction of stress, dispute resolution, and employee promotion. The origin and development of emotional intelligence as a behavioral theory is illustrated and its application to the organizational environment is systematically analyzed, with particular note of gaps in the literature and definitional difficulties identified.
Usability of 'Pink Pearl' 'Aiolos' and 'Blue Jacket' Hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis L.) varieties with Pre- and Postharvest Boric Acid Application as Cut Flowers
Authors: Olgaç Yağmur , Kasım Rezzan , Kasım Mehmet Ufuk
Published: December 2024

The study aimed to investigate the effect of boric acid (BA) treatments on availability of 'Pink Pearl' 'Aiolos' and 'Blue Jacket' hyacinth varieties as cut flower. For this purpose, 0, 50, 100 and 150 ppm boric acid doses were applied to hyacinths in pre- and post- harvest period. Boric acid (BA) was sprayed to leaves before harvest, while mixed into vase solution after harvest. The potted hyacinth plants were placed in a high plastic tunnel after stratification. The temperature in plastic tunnel kept at 18-20 oC during the cultivation. Pre-harvest treatments were performed as spraying prepared BA solutions to the leaves when the leaves reached to full size. During the vegetation period, the qualitative and quantitative parameters such as total leaf number, spike stalk length, leaf color (L* and hue (ho)), leaf chlorophyll (SPAD) value, total floret number, leaf length, total plant length, and total blooming spike number were measured. After harvest, hyacinth plants were placed in vase solution and monitored for post-harvest strength under 12 hours light/12 hours dark photoperiod conditions. Water uptake, the spike stalk length, and the vase longevity of the spike were observed during the vase life period. The BA treatments did not show any significant effect on the vase life of the hyacinth spike. The 150-ppm BA, however, improved leaf quality by increasing leaf chlorophyll and ho values while decreasing L* values. In conclusion, it can be suggested that the ‘Aiolos’ cultivar has a potential as cut flower due to its longer plants and flower stems both in pre- and post-harvest period, as well as its longer vase life. Among the BA applications, it was concluded that the 100 ppm application is a viable option for increasing water uptake and reducing weight loss during the vase period.
Determination of The Prevalence of Honey Bee Diseases and Parasites in Samples from Sivas Province
Authors: Bozdeveci Arif , Koç Akpınar Rahşan , Alpay Karaoğlu Şengül
Published: December 2024

Honey bees, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae), are the most important pollinators of agricultural products and plants in the natural environment. Honeybees are an important ecosystem component due to their role in nature and agricultural production. Bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic factors in bee farms are among the most important causes of honey bee colony losses. Honey bee diseases (bacterial, fungal and viral) and parasites are among the most important factors limiting beekeeping development and production efficiency in Türkiye. In addition to diseases caused by bacterial and fungal agents, diseases caused by viral agents are very diverse. Viruses, especially mixed infections, cause colony losses and are the most important factors in the decline of honey bee colonies. In this study the presence and prevalence of honey bee pathogens (Varroa destructor, Nosema ceranae, Paenibacillus larvae, and nine viruses) in suspicious samples with colony losses were investigated in Sivas province. For this purpose, microscopic, microbiological, and molecular methods were investigated on larvae and adult bee. The results showed that the most common viral pathogens in samples from Sivas province were Deformed Wing Virus (70%), Apis mellifera Filamentous Virus (60%), Black Queen Cell Virus (60%), Sacbrood Virus (55%) and Varroa destructor virus-1 (40%), respectively. In some samples, it was observed that there was a double (17.5%), triple (30%), quadruple (22.5%), or even quintuple (17.5%) association of viral agents. The viral infection/varroa coexistence rate was determined to be 50%. It was determined that 22.5% of the samples examined contained Nosema spores, while 12.5% were positive for P. larvae. Revealing the distribution of bee diseases will help beekeepers in disease-fighting and taking measures. This study showed the presence of the AmFV and the Varroa destructor virüs-1 in the Sivas province of Türkiye for the first time.
Characterising the behaviour of bait-attracted blue sharks Prionace glauca using pelagic drift video
Authors: Ríos N , Jimenez M , Franco G , Ramos G , Pais MP , Gonçalves EJ , Amorim MCP , Silva G
Published: December 2024

Baited pelagic underwater videos are increasingly being used to assess ecological indices but they can also be effective in recording the behaviour of pelagic species attracted to the bait. In this study, the behaviour of 79 blue sharks Prionace glauca was recorded using drifting pelagic baited remote underwater video system (BRUVS) rigs, deployed outside the Professor Luiz Saldanha Marine Park, Portugal. Juveniles were more frequently sighted over epipelagic (depth between 60 and 200 m) and mesopelagic zones (200-1000 m), while adult sightings were more common further offshore, particularly over canyons (1200-2000 m). Importantly, juvenile sightings were more frequent in spring (breeding season), suggesting that the study area is likely an important nursery habitat. Blue sharks primarily exhibited inspection activities around the BRUVS. Generalised linear models indicated that visibility, distance to the shore, bathymetry and temperature influenced their behavioural patterns. Moreover, juveniles interacted with the BRUVS for a longer time (mean duration: 0.4 min) than adults (0.2 min). A preliminary analysis of blue sharks’ reaction to boat presence suggests that boat noise decreased both the duration of interaction with the BRUVS and the range of observed behaviours. This study provides valuable insights into the behaviour of this species in its natural environment, which is relevant for management and conservation efforts.
Autumn and winter plankton composition and size structure in the North Sea
Authors: Börner G , Frelat R , Akimova A , van Damme C , Peck MA , Moyano M
Published: December 2024

Plankton dynamics in temperate ecosystems have mainly been studied during productive seasons, with comparatively less research conducted during the winter, particularly on microplankton. We implemented plankton sampling during a regular fishery cruise to investigate North Sea micro- and mesozooplankton community composition, abundance, and size structure (55-2000 µm) during autumn (Buchan/Banks area) and winter (Downs area) between 2013 and 2019. Samples were analyzed using image-based techniques. Community diversity (broad taxa) was relatively similar across years in both areas, with diatoms and tripos taxa sets dominating the microplankton community and gastropods and copepods dominating the mesozooplankton group. The average micro- to mesozooplankton ratio (in abundance) was 90:1 for Buchan/Banks, resulting in an average (±SD) normalized abundance size spectra (NASS) slope of -1.45 ± 0.18. For Downs, the micro- to mesozooplankton ratio was 235:1 with a steeper NASS slope of -1.67 ± 0.20 due to fewer large organisms. Interannual changes in the planktonic community for each area and their potential environmental drivers were examined using redundancy analysis (including taxonomy and size) and correlation analysis using NASS slopes (size only). Both approaches highlighted the importance of water mass properties (e.g. salinity, temperature, turbidity) in shaping plankton dynamics, although the amount of explained variance differed between approaches (11 vs. 46%). Our results contribute to a better understanding of standing stocks of plankton and their environmental drivers. Specifically, novel insights were gained into microplankton dynamics, which play an important role in supporting the growth and survival of winter-spawned fish larvae in the North Sea.
PENGARUH SISTEM PENGENDALIAN MANAJEMEN TERHADAP KINERJA PRODUKSI PADA PT. VM
Authors: Vanny  , Setiawan Alma Arief , Eka Putri Silviana , Sibarani Imanuel Paulus
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi akar penyebab masalah kinerja produksi dan menganalisis hubungan antara penyebab tersebut dan masalah yang dihadapi. Metode Fishbone digunakan untuk mengidentifikasi berbagai faktor yang dapat menyebabkan suatu masalah, seperti kegagalan peralatan, kesalahan manusia, atau faktor eksternal seperti kualitas pemasok. Hasil penelitian ini menjelaskan pengaruh sistem pengendalian manajemen (SPM) terhadap kinerja produksi di PT. VM, dalam peningkatan hasil produksi yang efektif dan efisien.
An improved method for whole-mount in situ hybridization in regenerating tails of Xenopus laevis tadpoles
Authors: Shitikov A. D. , Parshina E. A. , Zaraisky A. G. , Tereshina M. B.
Published: December 2024

Whole-mount in situ hybridization (WISH) is a widely used method that supports the concept of “seeing is believing” by enabling the visualization of gene expression patterns in whole-mount multicellular samples or sections. This technique is essential in the study of epimorphic regeneration in cold-blooded vertebrates, where complex three-dimensional organs such as tails, limbs, and eyes are completely restored after loss. The tadpoles of the frog X. laevis serve as a convenient model for studying regeneration, as they can regenerate their tails within a week after amputation. Modern high-throughput sequencing methods have identified various cell populations involved in the regeneration process and determined the repertoire of genes activated during this time. Specifically, a population of reparative myeloid cells expressing mmp9 as a marker gene has been shown to be crucial for the initial stages of tail regeneration in X. laevis tadpoles. The validation of these data and further examination using WISH offers the advantage of providing detailed information on the spatial and temporal dynamics of target gene expression levels. However, detecting mRNA by WISH can be challenging when mRNA levels are very low, transcripts are localized in hard-to-access areas, or tissue samples are prone to background staining, as is the case with X. laevis regenerating tail samples. Here, we describe additional treatments for regenerating tail samples that minimize background staining and enhance the visualization of cells containing target RNA through in situ hybridization. Using an optimized WISH protocol on X. laevis tadpole tail regenerates, we obtained novel data on the mmp9 expression pattern during the first day post-amputation at the regeneration-competent stage 40 and the regeneration-incompetent stage 47 (refractory period). The significant differences in the expression patterns indicate that mmp9 activity is positively correlated with regeneration competence.
Integrated analysis of proteome and transcriptome revealed changes in multiple signaling pathways involved in immunity in the northern snakehead (Channa argus) during Nocardia seriolae infection
Authors: Teng Jian , Li Yubao , Zhao Yan , Zhang Yu , Chen Duanduan , Liu Jianru , Cui Mengyao , Ji Xiangshan
Published: December 2024

The northern snakehead (Channa argus) is a valuable aquaculture species across certain Asian countries, contributing significantly to economic prosperity and dietary needs. However, its productivity faces significant challenges, particularly from diseases such as nocardiosis, caused by Nocardia seriolae. To date, the majority of research efforts have focused on describing the observed phenomena related to N. seriolae infection. However, there remains a notable gap in knowledge concerning the infectivity of N. seriolae and the immune response it elicits. To better understand the modulation of the immune responses to N. seriolae infection in snakeheads, we investigated the splenic proteome profiles. Specifically, we compared the profiles between uninfected northern snakehead specimens and those infected with N. seriolae at 96 h using the label-free data-independent acquisition methodology. A total of 700 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were obtained. Of these, 353 proteins exhibited upregulation, whereas 347 proteins displayed downregulation after the infection. The DEPs were mapped to the reference canonical pathways in Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes database, revealing several crucial pathways that were activated following N. seriolae infection. Noteworthy, among these were pathways such as ferroptosis, complement and coagulation cascades, chemokine signaling, tuberculosis, natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and Th17 cell differentiation. Furthermore, protein–protein interaction networks were constructed to elucidate the interplay between immune-related DEPs. These results revealed expression changes in multiple signaling pathways during the initial colonization phase of N. seriolae. This discovery offers novel insights into the infection mechanisms and host interaction dynamics associated with N. seriolae.
Experimental investigation into effects of material and energy regulation of debris flow by using check dams with different porosities
Authors: Huang Jinyan , Liu Xingrong , Zhang Zuoxiong , Zhang Jinxia , Ma Yanjie , Li Qirun , Wang Yukun , An Yapen
Published: December 2024

The design of check dam openings for debris flow control has been identified as a longstanding challenge, with no definitive solution yet identified. In this study, a quantitative analysis of the control efficacy of check dams with varying opening rates is presented. Field investigation data of 67 check dams located in Wenxian County, Gansu Province, were utilized to gain a preliminary understanding of their running state and damage situation. Building upon this, five check dams with opening rates ranging from 2.1% to 10.4% were designed and subjected to testing. Parameters including volumetric water content, pore water pressure, deposit morphology, and particle size distribution were analyzed to investigate the effect of varying opening rates on debris flow control. The results showed that: 1) As the opening rate of the check dams increased, the peaks of volumetric water content and pore water pressure behind the dam first decreased and then stabilized. When the opening rate was increased to 6.3% or higher, these parameters reached stable values. 2) Check dams with different opening rates all demonstrated good effects in retaining the coarse and sluicing the fine, resulting in the average particle size behind dams was coarsened by 2.65 times. This coarsening was primarily attributed to an increase in the proportion of retained particles within the 2–5 mm size range. 3) An optimal opening range of 4.2%–6.3% was identified for effective debris flow control. Compared with other dams, Dam II with opening rate 4.2% exhibited superior performance in mitigating flow energy and intercepting coarse particles, but it imposed stringent strength-related requirements.
Educational leaders and school-based mental health: a social network analysis of knowledge brokerage
Authors: Turner Jennifer , MacGregor Stephen , Friesen Sharon
Published: December 2024

This study examines the relational dynamics of knowledge brokerage among educational leaders in implementing multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) for mental health promotion in schools. Recognizing the critical link between student mental health and academic achievement, schools are increasingly expected to provide comprehensive mental health supports. Utilizing social network analysis (SNA), this research explores the information-seeking behaviors of educational leaders within a public school system in British Columbia, Canada. By mapping the relational connections among school and district leaders, the study identifies how these leaders, as knowledge brokers, navigate and influence educational policies and practices related to MTSS. The findings reveal latent interaction patterns that can either facilitate or impede the flow of essential information, highlighting potential areas for strategic intervention. The analysis demonstrates the importance of leadership in fostering collaboration and ensuring the effective integration of mental health initiatives into school communities. Additionally, the study underscores the complex interactions through which knowledge is exchanged and mobilized, emphasizing the need for systems to enhance relational ties and promote collaborative leadership. This research contributes to the scholarship and practice of educational leadership by advancing the understanding of how social networks and knowledge brokerage can support the successful implementation of MTSS.
“Breaking a vicious cycle”: the reproduction of ableism in higher education and its impact on students with disabilities
Authors: Goodall Gemma , Mjøen Odd Morten , Witsø Aud Elisabeth , Horghagen Sissel , Kvam Lisbeth
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Despite the widespread promotion of inclusive learning environments, students with disabilities have to exert time and effort in gaining accommodations and proving themselves as competent individuals. In following up a factorial survey experiment that found that students with disabilities are considered less likely to achieve their educational goals compared to students without, this study explored how understandings of inclusive education and disability are constructed within Norwegian higher education institutions.

Method

Nineteen employees across 10 universities participated in focus group interviews. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes were generated: (1) determining the role of the educator, (2) knowing how, when, and why to grant accommodations, (3) calling for action from the university.

Discussion

Overall, the findings suggest that understandings of inclusion are ambiguous and characterized by juxtaposing ideals. The participants’ accounts illustrate how they are tasked with promoting inclusion while simultaneously protecting their respective professions. Thus, despite being considered a resource based on their diversity, students with disabilities are still expected to fit into an environment designed for mainstream learners. In discussing these findings in light of ableist theory, we argue that more action is needed on a systemic level to restructure how inclusive education is understood and practiced.
The waist-to-height ratio is a good predictor for insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Zhu Mengyi , Wang Kaiyue , Feng Jiaxing , Liu Yang , Guan Muxin , Wang Yu , Wu Xiaoke
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore the role of the waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) in assessing insulin resistance (IR) in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Materials and methods

We enrolled 882 PCOS-afflicted women in a cross-sectional analysis to evaluate the association of the WHtR with IR. Their demographic characteristics, anthropometric parameters, and fasting blood samples were collected and measured. Moreover, IR was evaluated by homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). We estimated the relationship between the WHtR and IR and the cut-off thresholds of the WHtR for IR using multivariable linear regression and logistic regression models, respectively.

Result(s)

The prevalence rate of IR was 51.9%. The patients with PCOS and IR displayed significantly increased values for body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), WHtR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), free androgen index (FAI), HOMA-IR, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB). However, the patients with PCOS and IR showed a reduction in estradiol (E2), luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/FSH ratio, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) values than those without IR. Moreover, BMI (log-transformed), WC, and HOMA-IR (log-transformed) were positively correlated with the WHtR. When adjusting for potential confounding variables, the WHtR was significantly associated with HOMA-IR (log-transformed), with a standardized regression coefficient of 0.271. Furthermore, the WHtR was significantly associated with an increased risk of IR, with the adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 3.15 (WHtR multiplied by 10). Additionally, the WHtR helped to identify IR in women with PCOS with an optimal cut-off point of 0.519 (Youden index = 0.433).

Conclusion(s)

The WHtR had a positive association with IR in women with PCOS. Hence, we suggest that the WHtR, as a simple, practical, and reliable anthropometric measure, can be used to predict the risk of IR in patients with PCOS.
Effects of heat, elevated vapor pressure deficits and growing season length on growth trends of European beech
Authors: Leuschner Christoph , Bat-Enerel Banzragch
Published: December 2024

In recent decades, continued growth decline has been observed in various beech forest regions of Central and Western Europe, especially in the warmer lowlands, which is not necessarily linked to increased mortality. While earlier dendrochronological studies have shown that a deteriorating climatic water balance in the course of climate warming can drive negative growth trends, less is known about the effects of climatic extremes on tree growth, notably heat and rising atmospheric vapor pressure deficits (VPD). Through climate-growth analysis, we analyzed the influence of summer heat duration (frequency of hot days with Tmax > 30°C) and elevated VPD on the basal area increment (BAI) of dominant beech trees in 30 stands across a precipitation gradient in the northern German lowlands. Summer heat (especially in June) and elevated VPD are reducing BAI in a similar manner as does a deteriorated climatic water balance. While growing season length (GSL), derived from thermal thresholds of growth activity, has substantially increased since 1980, BAI has declined in the majority of stands, demonstrating a recent decoupling of tree productivity from GSL. We conclude that heat and elevated VPD most likely are important drivers of the recent beech growth decline in this region, while growing season length has lost its indicative value of beech productivity.
Identification of crucial drought-tolerant genes of barley through comparative transcriptomic analysis and yeast-based stress assay
Authors: He Xiaoyan , Su Congjun , Zhang Xinyi , Shi Zhaoxia , Wang Yanjie , Peng Huandi , Fang Shuying , Chen Xinyu , Yin Huayan , Zeng Jianbin , Mu Ping
Published: December 2024

Drought is a persistent and serious threat to crop yield and quality. The identification and functional characterization of drought tolerance-related genes is thus vital for efforts to support the genetic improvement of drought-tolerant crops. Barley is highly adaptable and renowned for its robust stress resistance, making it an ideal subject for efforts to explore genes related to drought tolerance. In this study, two barley materials with different drought tolerance were subjected to soil drought treatment, including a variety with strong drought tolerance (Hindmarsh) and a genotype with weaker drought tolerance (XZ5). Transcriptomic sequencing data from the aboveground parts of these plants led to the identification of 1,206 differentially expressed genes associated with drought tolerance. These genes were upregulated in Hindmarsh following drought stress exposure but downregulated or unchanged in XZ5 under these same conditions, or were unchanged in Hindmarsh but downregulated in XZ5. Pathway enrichment analyses suggested that these genes are most closely associated with defense responses, signal recognition, photosynthesis, and the biosynthesis of various secondary metabolites. Using protein-protein interaction networks, the ankyrin repeat domain-containing protein 17-like isoform X2 was predicted to impact other drought tolerance-related protein targets in Hindmarsh. In MapMan metabolic pathway analyses, genes found to be associated with the maintenance of drought tolerance in Hindmarsh under adverse conditions were predicted to include genes involved in the abscisic acid, cytokinin, and gibberellin phytohormone signaling pathways, genes associated with redox homeostasis related to ascorbate and glutathione S-transferase, transporters including ABC and AAAP, transcription factors such as AP2/ERF and bHLH, the heat shock proteins HSP60 and HSP70, and the sucrose non-fermenting-1-related protein kinase. Heterologous HvSnRK2 (one of the identified genes, which encodes the sucrose non-fermenting-1-related protein kinase) gene expression in yeast conferred significant drought tolerance, highlighting the functional importance of this gene as one linked with drought tolerance. This study revealed the drought tolerance mechanism of Hindmarsh by comparing transcriptomes while also providing a set of candidate genes for genetic efforts to improve drought tolerance in this and other crop species.