bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between patient‐reported manual ability and three objective measures of upper limb function in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Solaro Claudio , Di Giovanni Rachele , Grange Erica , Brichetto Giampaolo , Mueller Margit , Tacchino Andrea , Bertoni Rita , Patti Francesco , Pappalardo Angelo , Prosperini Luca , Castelli Letizia , Rosato Rosalba , Cattaneo Davide , Marengo Davide
Published: September 2022

Background and purpose

Upper limb (UL) function is often affected in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and is typically assessed through objective measures, including the Nine Hole Peg Test (9‐HPT), Box and Block Test (BBT), and Hand Grip Strength (HGS). It is important to include the subjective perspective of PwMS in the assessment. This study aims to evaluate associations between Manual Ability Measure‐36 (MAM‐36) and 9‐HPT, BBT, and HGS in MS.

Methods

The cross‐sectional study included five Italian centers. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years, MS diagnosis, and stable disease course. Exclusion criteria were bilateral UL paralysis, and concomitant orthopedic or neurological diseases.

Results

A total of 199 PwMS were included: 128 female, mean age = 50.7 ± 13.0 years, 119 relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS), 31 primary and 49 secondary progressive MS, mean disease duration = 14.0 ± 10.4, years, mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) = 4.6 ± 2.0.

The MAM‐36 showed small correlations with 9‐HPT, BBT, and HGS. Correlations between MAM‐36 and 9‐HPT and BBT were highest among subjects with EDSS ≥ 6 and progressive MS. MAM‐36 and HGS showed the highest correlations in subjects with EDSS ≤ 5 and RRMS. Combining 9‐HPT and HGS provided the strongest predictive power over the MAM‐36.

Conclusions

Correlations between objective measures and MAM‐36 were small to moderate, meaning that objective measures do not match subjects' perception of UL function. The combination of 9‐HPT and HGS measures can help improve the assessment of UL function in activities of daily living.
Value preferences of spouses and division of domestic labor in the family: A dyadic study
Authors: Tartakovsky Eugene
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study investigated the effect of the spouses' value preferences on the division of domestic labor in the family.

Background

Personal value preferences reflect general motivations and thus affect individuals' perception of reality and direct behavior. In the present study, I assumed that the personal value preferences of spouses motivate them to participate in different domains of domestic labor to varying degrees.

Method

The study was conducted in Israel using a sample of heterosexual couples having at least one child (N = 479). I measured the value preferences of the spouses and division of domestic labor in the family in four domains: traditionally female chores, traditionally male chores, childcare, and emotion work. Dyadic data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling.

Results

Among husbands, a higher preference for the self‐transcendence values was associated with a more equal division of domestic labor in the family; that is, with a larger share of husbands in traditionally female chores, childcare, and emotion work, and with their smaller share in traditionally male chores. Among wives, higher preferences for openness to change and self‐enhancement values were associated with a more equal division of domestic labor in the family.

Conclusion

The results confirmed that the spouses' general motivational goals expressed in their value preferences affected their participation in different domains of domestic labor.

Implications

The study advances researchers' and practitioners' understanding of the intrapersonal motivational factors affecting the division of domestic labor and provides a solid basis for further research and counseling work with families.
Are separated/divorced same sex families more likely to establish equal coparenting? A preliminary outcome from a court‐based program
Authors: Zhu Tianmei , Alschech Jonathan , Pruett Marsha Kline
Published: September 2022

In this article, we examine the impact of inconsistent laws and possible judicial bias on children's opportunities to experience interaction and support from all parents, when those same parents separate/divorce. The Family Resolutions Specialty Court (FRSC) in Massachusetts provides a model through which procedures support all parents and minimize bias by engaging parental involvement collaboratively. Using exploratory data collected and analyzed from separated/divorced same sex and heterosexual parenting plans developed by families in FRSC (N = 50; 86% heterosexual, 14% same sex), we examine children's living arrangements regarding daytime parenting time and the number of overnights with the non‐primary parent, as well as the consistency of parenting schedules. Results identified a tendency among same sex parents to establish parenting plans that were more equal between partners and consistent across weeks. This small study adds to the emerging literature exploring coparenting among same sex parents post‐separation/divorce by contextualizing this preliminary finding and setting the stage for more rigorous analysis of differences in parenting plans and coparenting post separation/divorce between heteronormative and queer families.
Stygofaunal diversity and ecological sustainability of coastal groundwater ecosystems in a changing climate: The Australian paradigm
Authors: Saccò Mattia , Blyth Alison J. , Douglas Grant , Humphreys William F. , Hose Grant C. , Davis Jenny , Guzik Michelle T. , Martínez Alejandro , Eberhard Stefan M. , Halse Stuart A.
Published: September 2022

Coastal aquifers are vital water sources for humanity. Their quality and the ecosystem services they provide depend on the integrity of their subterranean biota. However, current anthropogenic impacts such as climate change effects and coastal population growth place enormous pressure on the sustainability of these environments.

Despite the significance of subterranean biota to ecosystem function and the delivery of ecosystem services, stygofauna—groundwater‐dwelling aquatic animals—have until recently been largely ignored in aquifer monitoring and management. This issue is of importance in both coastal and inland zones. Common threats in inland and coastal areas are water extraction, reduced recharge caused by aridification, and pollution, while, in coastal zones, additional complications arise from sea‐level change and salt water ingress.

This review examines stygofaunal diversity, impacts, and future conservation challenges in coastal aquifers. Focussing on Australia, we provide a summary of the available data on stygofaunal communities and distributions; identify and describe potential threats to these communities across the diverse coastal regions of the continent; and propose future research priorities with the goal of facilitating the long‐term preservation of these ecosystems on the Australian continent. While we focus this review on Australia, the threats and management issues discussed are relevant globally.

Recent subterranean studies in Australia have been primarily undertaken in inland areas, and while coastal data exist, ecological assessment of coastal subterranean ecosystems is incomplete, compromising the efficacy of conservation plans. This review indicates that the Australian continent hosts five major coastal stygofaunal biodiversity areas characterised by heterogeneous community assemblages, involving a total of 17 taxonomic groups spanning microscopic aquatic invertebrates to vertebrates. The most relevant impacts and threats identified were aquifer size reduction, intrusion of seawater, land clearing, contamination, and mining.

Given the projections of increasing coastal development and subsequent loss or degradation of habitat during coming decades, it is important to improve our limited understanding of the ecology of coastal aquifers. Future research should include the refinement of biological assessment tools for coastal systems, functional and ecotoxicological studies, and faunal surveys of urban coastal aquifers. The recommendations and guidelines outlined in this review are applicable globally and provide a further step toward the sustainable use of coastal groundwater resources and the maintenance of healthy groundwater ecosystems.
Community assembly in the wake of glacial retreat: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Pothula Satyendra K. , Adams Byron J.
Published: September 2022

Ecosystems shaped by retreating glaciers provide a unique opportunity to study the order and timing of biotic colonization, and how this influences the structure of successive ecological communities. In the last century glaciers across most of the cryosphere have receded at an unprecedented pace. Many studies have been published from different parts of the world testing hypotheses about how soil ecosystems are responding to rapid, contemporary deglaciation events. To better understand and draw general conclusions about how soil ecosystems respond to deglaciation, we conducted a global meta‐analysis of 95 published articles focused on the succession of various organisms and soil physicochemical properties in glacier forefields along the chronosequence. Our global synthesis reveals that key soil properties and the abundance and richness of biota follow two conspicuous patterns: (1) some taxa demonstrate a persistent increase in abundance and richness over the entire chronosequence, (2) other taxa increase in abundance and richness during the first 50 years of succession, then gradually decline 50 years onward. The soil properties and soil organisms that are intimately tied to vegetation follow the first pattern, consistent with the idea that aboveground patterns of vegetation can drive patterns of belowground biodiversity. The second pattern may be due to an initial increase and subsequent decline in available nutrients and habitat suitability caused by increased biotic interactions, including resource competition among soil biota. A consensus view of the patterns of historical and contemporary soil ecosystem responses to deglaciation provides a better understanding of the processes that generate these patterns and informs predictions of ongoing and future responses to environmental changes.
Effect of starting materials of nucleation agents on crystallization of CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 glass
Authors: Machida Shingo , Maeda Kei , Katsumata Ken‐ichi , Yasumor Atsuo
Published: September 2022

The effect of the starting materials of the nucleation agents for glass–ceramics (GCs) was explored. The number of hexagonal platy particles of metastable‐CaAl2Si2O8 in CaO–Al2O3–SiO2 (CAS) GCs was increased by changing the sizes of molybdenum oxide (MoO3) and carbon particles used as starting materials of the nucleation agents. X‐ray diffraction patterns indicated that all of GC specimens display reflections attributed to metastable‐CaAl2Si2O8 solely. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that, compared with the CAS GC with precipitated hexagonal platy particles of metastable‐CaAl2Si2O8 (CAS GC‐H) prepared using MoO3 particles with a Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area of 3.5 m2/g and 10–50 μm carbon particles, CAS GC‐Hs prepared using MoO3 particles with a BET surface area of 1.2 m2/g or carbon fibers 10–50 μm in length and ∼5 μm in diameter resulted in approximately a twofold increase in the number of platy particles of metastable‐CaAl2Si2O8 and a decrease in the average particle size from 13 to 11 μm. The microstructures of the CAS GC‐Hs are closer looks. In addition, no major differences in volume fractions estimated using the binarized SEM images are observed between those GC specimens. These results indicated that the starting materials of nucleation agents affect the crystallization of CAS GCs.
The effect of utilitarian and hedonic motivations on mobile shopping outcomes. A cross‐cultural analysis
Authors: Hu Lala , Filieri Raffaele , Acikgoz Fulya , Zollo Lamberto , Rialti Riccardo
Published: September 2022

Mobile devices are ubiquitous in the lives of modern consumers, who use them for information‐seeking and purchasing activities, fostering the emergence of m‐commerce. This trend has been exacerbated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, which has boosted m‐commerce growth in both developed and developing countries. Hence, there is a need for cross‐cultural research concerning the factors affecting behavioural intentions. Drawing upon the hedonic information systems model, we measure the impact of utilitarian factors on satisfaction, repurchase intention, and eWOM through the mediation of enjoyment across two countries characterized by different stages of m‐commerce readiness and culture: China and Italy. Findings suggest that the impact of utilitarian factors on satisfaction is stronger among Italian users than Chinese users. On the contrary, for Chinese users, who use their mobile phones as a primary device to shop online, the mediation effect of enjoyment on satisfaction and eWOM is stronger. With this study, we contribute to cross‐cultural research in m‐commerce and provide guidelines to mobile retailers operating in diverse international markets.
Associations of cord blood leukocyte telomere length with adiposity growth from infancy to adolescence
Authors: Qureshi Farah , Aris Izzuddin M. , Rifas‐Shiman Sheryl L. , Perng Wei , Oken Emily , Rich‐Edwards Janet , Cardenas Andres , Baccarelli Andrea A. , Enlow Michelle Bosquet , Belfort Mandy B. , Tiemeier Henning
Published: September 2022

Objective

Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) may be a biomarker for chronic disease susceptibility, but no work has tested this hypothesis directly. Our study investigated associations of LTL at birth with markers of adiposity growth that are linked with cardiometabolic health later in life.

Methods

Participants were 375 children in Project Viva (48% female, 71% White). Body mass index (BMI) trajectories from birth to 18 years were tracked using repeated measures of BMI collected in physical examinations and via medical records, then used to predict age (months) and magnitude (kg/m2) of BMI peak and rebound. LTL was measured from cord blood via duplex quantitative PCR. A binary variable indicating LTL shorter than the reference population average was the primary exposure.

Results

LTL was unrelated to BMI at peak or rebound, but associations were apparent with the timing of BMI growth milestones. Short LTL was related to a later age of peak for females (β = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.16, 1.82; psex interaction = 0.015) and an earlier age of rebound for both males and females (βcombined = −5.26, 95% CI = −9.44, −1.08).

Conclusion

LTL at birth may be an early biomarker of altered adiposity growth. Newborn telomere biology may shed new insight into the developmental origins of health and disease.
Promoting mental health recovery by design: Physical, procedural, and relational security in the context of the mental health built environment
Authors: Wilson Rhonda L. , Hutton Alison , Foureur Maralyn
Published: September 2022

The rates of mental health hospitalisations in Australia are rising. This paper presents the findings of a study undertaken in a regional mental health unit. The aim of the study was to obtain user perspectives to inform the redesign of the unit, which provides inpatient mental health services to rural and regional adults. A qualitative descriptive study with data collected via focus groups and in‐depth interviews was undertaken with 38 participants, including current inpatients, carers and 27 staff members of a single regional inpatient mental health unit. The 25‐bed mental health inpatient unit accommodates adults from 18+ years of age. The mental health unit sits within a referral hospital precinct and is associated with community‐based mental health services within a large regional and rural Australian public health service. The analysis of interviews and focus groups with patients, carers and mental health professionals revealed three major themes congruent with the literature These were: Firstly,Theme 1: Rooms should be designed to promote physical security. Next,Theme 2:Purposeful planning to support interactions between users and systems will promote relational security. And finally,Theme 3:Optimizing service integrity should promote procedural security. Based on the themes arising from the study, a list of recommendations was produced to inform the design of a new build for a regional mental health unit. In particular, all users of the space should expect that the built environment will promote their physical security and psychological safety and accommodate a wide range of diversity and acuity. The aesthetics should align with the promotion of recovery in the context of person‐centred and trauma‐informed models of care. Designers should plan to alleviate boredom and accommodate meaningful wayfinding. Mental health nurses should have spaces that support their work without compromising their relational security with consumers. Building designers should optimize therapeutic environments to facilitate dignified intensive and stabilizing treatments and eliminate vicarious stigma associated with caring for people with mental illness. This study provides valuable insights from a community of users who have experienced receiving and delivering mental health care within a regional and rural mental health unit.
Reflections on the Adaptation of a Postgraduate Degree in Water Management from In‐person to Remote Delivery
Authors: Clamen Murray , Anderson Emma , Dipple Johanna , Adamowski Jan
Published: September 2022

In early 2020, the COVID‐19 pandemic spurred the rapid adaptation of university course delivery to an online format. Though in‐person delivery partially resumed in the Fall of 2021, future conditions may favor a return to, or addition of, remote delivery. It is therefore important for instructors, program directors, and institutions to capitalize on this learning opportunity and reflect on adaptation measures’ successes (and failures) to inform future online course design. The reworking of McGill University's Master of Science Program in Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) provides a case study to evaluate the adaptation of remote teaching of water resource management. Informed by the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework with a focus on preserving transferable skills, a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis was used to evaluate the five core program components. This evaluation framework, which can be applied to most university programs, resulted in several widely relevant insights. For example, remote delivery can create opportunities for greater participation of international students as it eliminates the need for translocation costs. Likewise, a larger variety of guest speakers can participate remotely, giving students greater exposure to different water career paths and research perspectives, ultimately strengthening the program. However, several weaknesses pose threats to online learning. The standard in‐person lecture‐style format must therefore be amended to maintain engagement and facilitate student‐to‐student and student‐to‐instructor learning processes. Course components that can enhance the online experience include breakout rooms, discussion boards, frequent journals/feedback forms, online activities, breaks, virtual office hours, and multi‐media presentations.
Total Maximum Daily Loads and Escherichia coli Trends in Texas Freshwater Streams
Authors: Schramm Michael , Gitter Anna , Gregory Lucas
Published: September 2022

Fecal indicator bacteria are routinely used to assess surface water sanitary quality. The State of Texas uses Total Maximum Daily Loads to address water bodies that exceed the allowable fecal indicator bacteria criteria. The effectiveness of these processes in decreasing the fecal indicator bacteria concentrations has been debated due to the diversity and nature of fecal indicator bacteria sources. We assessed actual and flow‐adjusted trends in measured Escherichia coli (E. coli) concentrations at 721 freshwater stream sites from 2001 through 2021. We also compared odds of statistical improvement of E. coli concentrations at sites before and after the adoption of Total Maximum Daily Loads (adopted from 2008 through 2014). Results indicate non‐significant differences in the odds of statistically detected improvements in E. coli concentration between pre‐Total Maximum Daily Load and post‐Total Maximum Daily Load sites. Although the State of Texas and numerous watershed stakeholders have made efforts to address water quality impairments, these results join a body of evidence that water quality improvements are stagnating in the state. Furthermore, this study leverages water quality data used for state water quality standards assessment purposes and highlights that robust monitoring program design is needed to effectively assess the progress of water quality planning efforts.
Construction of plate‐like magnetic heterostructure for synergistic microwave absorption
Authors: Ma Jiaxin , Wang Jiancheng , Hu Xiaobo , Wang Lianjun , Fan Yuchi , Jiang Wan
Published: September 2022

The dramatically dropped permeability of magnetic materials at gigahertz frequencies, known as the Snoek's limit, has severely constrained the microwave absorbing performance of magnetic materials. To break the Snoek's limit at high frequencies, a plate‐like magnetic heterostructure composed of Ni‐Fe ferrite, nitride, and Permalloy is fabricated through nitridation of Ni‐Fe layered double hydroxide. It has been found that single‐phase magnetic flakes or the multi‐phase heterostructure with extraordinarily linked magnetic nanoplates can be obtained by simply adjusting the temperature of nitridation. Due to the highly anisotropic morphology and synergistic effect at abundant heterogeneous interfaces, the magnetic heterostructure shows enhanced imaginary permeability that is even higher than that of single‐phase Permalloy. Accordingly, the magnetic loss in C and X bands is improved, leading to significant enhancement of attenuation constant in this novel microwave absorber. Combined with the moderate permittivity, the impedance matching of the heterostructure is superior compared to every single component, as well as the mixture of these components. As a result, the minimum reflection loss of −59.30 dB at a thickness of 2.02 mm and effective absorption bandwidth (RL<−10 dB) of 2.44 GHz is realized. These findings provide a novel path to designing high‐performance microwave absorbers based on magnetic materials.
Analysis of the social interaction of perceived problem‐based learning performance in internship courses
Authors: Lin Ying‐Lien , Wang Wei‐Tsong
Published: September 2022

Background

This study aims to integrate the theories of social presence and social identity to examine the effectiveness of group‐based problem‐based learning (PBL) in learning communities. Social presence is a critical factor in determining the success of collaborative learning in group‐based PBL activities. Although several studies have investigated the effects of using self‐directed and collaborative learning, they present weak evidence within those studies to explain the impact of social interaction on perceived PBL performance in nursing internship programs.

Objectives

This study develops a second‐order formative model to examine the relationship between social presence, trust, social identification and students' perceived PBL performance.

Methods

The partial least squares technique is used to analyse data from 409 nursing interns who studied at seven medical universities or nursing colleges.

Results and Conclusions

The results indicate that all hypotheses are supported, which is an underaddressed topic in the nursing internship education literature. Notably, the findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the interns' perceived PBL performance during the internship.
The role of desktop virtual reality as an accessible and equitable strategy to improve career opportunities for women in technology
Authors: Onele Nicholas Ogbonna
Published: September 2022

Background

The conventional classroom does not seem to adequately address the gender disparity in technology education. This could negatively affect the contributions of the female gender to national development. There was a need to advance a setting that enhances the participation of women in technology education.

Aims

This study evaluated desktop Virtual Reality (VR) to know whether it enhances equal academic achievement and learning interests of female and male students.

Materials and Methods

A toss of a coin was used to divide the six universities into two major groups; three universities were taught with ElectricVlab, while the other three universities were taught in the conventional classroom. Each of the six intact classes sat in clusters of five students and the whole class was taught the construction of an audio amplifier together using a demonstration method of teaching. A Vocational Interest scale and a researcher‐made achievement test with reliability coefficient=0.89 were used for data collection. Two‐way Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to analyse means and test hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance.

Results

The study found no significant difference between the mean achievement and interests of female and male students in the VR group. There was a significant interaction effect between gender and teaching environment. This study predicts that VR could bring women up to the same level of interest and achievement as men, but conventional classroom methods could not.

Conclusions

Curriculum planners should consider piloting virtual reality to enhance gender‐fair education, as it shows initial promise in the teaching of electronic technology education. Virtual reality for teaching and learning can be a part of postgraduate studies in universities, especially in academic fields where virtual reality has been found effective. This study may guide other studies and add to available literature.
Developing and validating a prediction model of adolescent major depressive disorder in the offspring of depressed parents
Authors: Stephens Alice , Allardyce Judith , Weavers Bryony , Lennon Jessica , Jones Rhys Bevan , Powell Victoria , Eyre Olga , Potter Robert , Price Valentina Escott , Osborn David , Thapar Anita , Collishaw Stephan , Thapar Ajay , Heron Jon , Rice Frances
Published: September 2022

Background

Parental depression is common and is a major risk factor for depression in adolescents. Early identification of adolescents at elevated risk of developing major depressive disorder (MDD) in this group could improve early access to preventive interventions.

Methods

Using longitudinal data from 337 adolescents at high familial risk of depression, we developed a risk prediction model for adolescent MDD. The model was externally validated in an independent cohort of 1,384 adolescents at high familial risk. We assessed predictors at baseline and MDD at follow‐up (a median of 2–3 years later). We compared the risk prediction model to a simple comparison model based on screening for depressive symptoms. Decision curve analysis was used to identify which model‐predicted risk score thresholds were associated with the greatest clinical benefit.

Results

The MDD risk prediction model discriminated between those adolescents who did and did not develop MDD in the development (C‐statistic = .783, IQR (interquartile range) = .779, .778) and the validation samples (C‐statistic = .722, IQR = −.694, .741). Calibration in the validation sample was good to excellent (calibration intercept = .011, C‐slope = .851). The MDD risk prediction model was superior to the simple comparison model where discrimination was no better than chance (C‐statistic = .544, IQR = .536, .572). Decision curve analysis found that the highest clinical utility was at the lowest risk score thresholds (0.01–0.05).

Conclusions

The developed risk prediction model successfully discriminated adolescents who developed MDD from those who did not. In practice, this model could be further developed with user involvement into a tool to target individuals for low‐intensity, selective preventive intervention.
Screening of new Paenibacillus polymyxa S3 and its disease resistance of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus)
Authors: Yang Shijia , Jin Duo , Li Hui , Jiang Lingzhi , Cui Jun , Huang Weitao , Rang Jie , Li YunLong , Xia Liqiu
Published: September 2022

A new strain of Paenibacillus polymyxa S3 with antagonistic effects on 11 major fish pathogens (especially Aeromonas hydrophila), but had no toxicity to grass carp, was screened from the sediment of fishponds. In vivo colonization studies showed that strain S3 could be colonized and distributed in the gill and abdomen of the grass carp. Bioassay results showed that the weight growth rate of grass carp in the strain S3 oral group (16.01%) and strain S3 immersion group (16.44%) was significantly higher than those of the control group (8.61%). At the same time, the activities of ACP, AKP, CAT and GSH‐Px in the serum of grass carp in oral and immersion groups were significantly higher than those of the control group. In addition, the treatment with strain S3 could significantly upregulate the expression of the antioxidant‐related genes and immune‐related genes Keap1, Nrf2, C3, LZM, IgM, TLR‐4 and MyD‐88 in grass carp tissues. The challenge test showed that strain S3 treatment significantly increased the survival rate of grass carp infected with Aeromonas hydrophila. Whole genome sequencing analysis showed that strain S3 had 16 active metabolite gene clusters, indicating that it had abundant gene resources, which provided important support for its development for fish microecological preparations. In summary, a new strain of Paenibacillus polymyxa S3 with antibacterial activity against a variety of fish pathogens was screened in this study and its probiotic function was evaluated, proving its potential value in fisheries.
Energy and exergy analysis of the temperature and relative humidity controlled infrared convective walnut drying
Authors: Karaca Dolgun Gülşah , Aktaş Mustafa , Oskaybaş Emlek Betül , Erinç Hakan , Dolgun Ekin Can
Published: September 2022

In this study, energy and exergy analyses of the closed‐cycle infrared (IR) convective walnut drying were performed. The effects of the combined heat transfer, product–source distance, and temperature–relative humidity (RH) control on the food quality of walnuts and performance were investigated. Experiments were conducted with and without an IR lamp. The temperature and RH of the drying air were set at 40°C and 20%, respectively. The distance between the product and the IR source was changed to 20 cm and 30 cm. The coefficient of performance values of the whole system changed between 1.56 and 2.34. Exergy efficiencies varied between 60.81% and 88.19% without IR and 72.73%–78.54% with IR. Energy and time savings increased by 14.7% and 26.1%, respectively, with using IR at a 20 cm distance compared with the convective system. The fatty acid composition of walnut samples and chemical properties of walnut samples such as total phenolic content, oil, ash, color, antioxidant activity, peroxide values, free fatty acid, conjugated trienes, conjugated dienes, saponification value, and iodine number parameters were analyzed. Food analysis results of all dried walnuts were in the acceptable range. As a result, energy and time savings were achieved with the desired food quality.

Novelty impact statement

This application makes it possible to achieve the desired conditions with less energy. In this study, the effects of heat transfer mechanisms, the effect of using two mechanisms together, and the effects of the variables within each mechanism on the drying of walnuts were investigated. It has been observed that the addition of an infrared heat source with the right and suitable application shortens the drying time as well as saves energy. As a result of the food quality analysis, it was determined that all products dried without deteriorating the food quality. The closed‐cycle intermittent infrared convective drying system is recommended for industrial use.
Probiotic characterization of indigenous lactic acid bacteria isolates from chickens to be used as biocontrol agents in poultry industry
Authors: Moretti Ana F. , Gamba Raúl , De Antoni Graciela , Peláez Ángela León , Golowczyc Marina A.
Published: September 2022

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are used as probiotics to improve animal health and production. This study aimed to characterize and assess three LAB, Ligilactobacillus salivarius 1234C, Ligilactobacillus agilis 1235C and Enterococcus durans 12311C, isolated from chicken, as potential probiotic candidates to improve the production parameters of commercial poultry. Resistance to gastrointestinal conditions, growth in alternative culture media, antagonistic activity against Salmonella and mycotoxigenic fungi were investigated. Additionally, the strains were added to poultry feed to evaluate their in vivo effect. The three LAB showed high survival rates after sequential gastric and intestinal conditions, demonstrated bactericidal activity against Salmonella and were able to grow in alternative culture media. Also, ligilactobacilli strains exerted fungicidal activity against mycotoxigenic fungi. In vivo assay showed that dietary supplementation of a multi‐microbe probiotic product with 107 CFU/ml significantly increased (p < .05) height: crypt depth ratio at 16 days compared to controls and promoted the highest average weight in chickens. Thus, three novel LAB strains with potential as probiotic properties have been characterized and could be considered probiotic candidates for animal production.

Novelty impact statement

It is important to find novel probiotic candidates to improve and complement current treatment strategies in the poultry industry. Three indigenous lactic acid bacteria from poultry were found to possess suitable in vitro probiotic properties. Moreover, the inclusion of these strains as a multi‐microbe probiotic product in the diet of broiler chickens had no adverse effects on the general health status of broilers and showed a positive effect on the average daily weight at the final growth period.
Disagreement in Consumer Inflation Expectations
Authors: ŁYZIAK TOMASZ , SHENG XUGUANG SIMON
Published: September 2022

By carefully matching the data sets from the Michigan Survey of Consumers with the Survey of Professional Forecasters, we show that there exists substantial heterogeneity in the propensity of U.S. households to learn from experts in forming inflation expectations. Additional results for a group of European economies broadly confirm this observation. We advance an extended version of the sticky‐information model to analyze disagreement in consumer inflation expectations. Besides differences in consumers' propensities to learn, disagreement in our model arises from heterogeneity in consumers' fundamental inflation and past expectations and experts' different views about future inflation.
Evaluating the effectiveness of stromal‐vascular fraction (SVF) cells along with subcision method in the treatment of acne scars: A double‐blind randomized controlled clinical trial study
Authors: Roohaninasab Masoumeh , Seifadini Azadeh , Atefi Najmolsadat , Sadeghzadeh‐Bazargan Afsaneh , Goodarzi Azadeh , Hanifnia Amir Reza , Nouri Maryam , Zare Sona , Moradi Sepideh , Dehghani Abbas , Nilforoushzadeh Mohammad Ali , Behrangi Elham
Published: September 2022

Background

Subcision method is one of the main techniques for treatment of acne scars or stromal‐vascular fraction (SVF) and combined therapy can improve treatment strategy.

Objective

To use subcision method along with SVF for treatment of acne scar and comprised with alone subcision method.

Materials and Methods

In this double‐blind clinical trial study, 10 patients with acne scars were entered into the study. Subcision technique was randomly performed on one side of the face and subcision technique plus SVF on opposite side of the face. All patients were examined before treatment and after 3 months by Visioface for volume, area, and depth of scars, as well as thickness and density of the epidermis and dermis of the scars in question. In addition, doctor's and patients' satisfaction, tolerability, and safety were determined after 3 months of treatment. Finally, statistical analysis was done by SPPS, version 25.

Results

In terms of volume and area of scars, the mean percent change was 46.55 ± 13.92 and 44.60 ± 5.76, for the case group, and 13.31 ± 9.27 and 11.28 ± 9.64 for the control group, respectively. So, combined therapy led to significant recovery compared with alone subcision method (pvalue < 0.001). In both interventions, the increase of density and thickness was proven after treatment, also a significant difference in complete, epidermal, and dermal thickness and epidermal density variables was observed between combined therapy and alone subcision (pvalue < 0.05). Mean score of doctor's and patients' satisfaction in combined therapy (7.10 ± 0.74 and 7.10 ± 0.99, respectively), was also significantly higher than subcision alone (5.50 ± 0.53 and 5.30 ± 1.25, respectively). Finally, no complications were observed in the patients.

Conclusion

According to the acquired results, combined therapy can be considered as effective and safe treatment for acne scars with significant higher efficacy compared with subcision alone.
Correlation of skin cancer and actinic keratosis‐related knowledge and sun protection behaviors and sunscreen use among a sample of Jordanian population
Authors: Saleh Mais M. , Awwad Oriana , Abdel Jalil Mariam Hantash , Al‐Qerem Walid , Saleh Maen , Al Thaher Yazan , Abdelghany Sharif
Published: September 2022

Background

The incidence of skin cancer and actinic keratosis has increased worldwide. Measuring the public awareness, attitude, and knowledge about these diseases and the skin protection behaviors are highly important to undertake preventive measures.

Methods

To investigate skin cancer and actinic keratosis‐related knowledge, sun protection behaviors, and sunscreen usage among Jordanians, a questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire was provided as a google form to individuals via social media and the data were analyzed using SPSS® 23.

Results

A total of 1277 individuals, aged 18–65 years filled the questionnaire. The median melanoma and actinic keratosis knowledge score were 7 (4–9) and 4 (0–9), respectively. The melanoma knowledge was higher among females, those with a medical background, a high level of education, and in the central region, whereas the AK knowledge was higher among those with a medical background. Overall, 75.9% of the participants used sunscreen at least often to prevent sunburn, uneven skin tone, or tanning, 72% were using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 at least. However, 45.3% and 49.2% of sunscreen users did not comply with application, and reapplication times, respectively. Moreover, 58.4% of participants applied less than the recommended amount of sunscreen.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that public awareness of actinic keratosis is low among Jordanians. Although it was found that a high proportion of Jordanians use sunscreens there are deficits in sunscreen practice indicating an urgent need to design effective interventions to increase awareness of actinic keratosis and correct use of sunscreen via health campaigns or healthcare professions.
Diagnosis and treatment of infected wounds: A multi‐centre audit of current clinical practice across the UK, Ireland and Scandinavia
Authors: Hampton Jane , Sharpe Andrew , McCluskey Pat , Styche Tim , Hughes Jacqui , Woodmansey Emma
Published: September 2022

Aims and objectives

Surveillance of wound infection including signs of infection alongside antimicrobial usage (types, duration, frequency) can highlight knowledge gaps and inconsistencies. This manuscript aims to highlight these, identify and inform opportunities for practice improvement and to show impact of infection management practice may be having on the issue of antimicrobial resistance.

Background

Infected wounds pose challenges to healthcare professionals. Balancing risk of wound deterioration and progression to systemic infection with appropriate use of antimicrobials is necessary to minimise development of resistance.

Methods

Analysis consisted of a practice survey of 9661 wounds across 70 community sites over a period of one week. Data were collected from projects between 2017 and 2020. The form was available to providers within the UK, Ireland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland. EQUATOR research guidelines were followed; STROBE checklist for observational research reporting was completed.

Results

Infection rates of 8.9% were reported from wounds assessed. These data indicate inconsistencies with diagnosis across practice with non‐specialists more likely to be unsure of wound infection. Greater confidence in infection identification was observed as number of signs increased. Inconsistencies were also observed in appropriate treatment; antimicrobials were used in 35% of wounds considered not infected and not used in 41% of wounds that were identified as infected.

Conclusions

This investigation of infection management practice of over 9000 wounds provides an insight into diagnosis and treatment of infection. Inconsistencies in diagnosis and treatment of wound infections reported highlight the need for increased education, awareness of diagnosis and treatment of infection.

Relevance to clinical practice

Variability in management of infected wounds highlights opportunities to aid more effective diagnosis and treatment of infected wounds. Incorporation of support tools or evidence‐based pathways into practice may enhance confidence in management of local infection, balanced with appropriate use, potentially minimising resistance and improving outcomes.
Effect of different position on inferior vena cava dimensions and its influence on hemodynamics during cesarean section under combined spinal‐epidural anesthesia: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: You Junli , Li Murong , Fan Wei , Li Tao , Wang Jinping
Published: September 2022

Objective

The purpose of our study was to investigate the effect of the 15° left operating table tilt on the inferior vena cava (IVC) and the hemodynamics of full‐term pregnant women, and to evaluate the efficacy of inferior vena cava collapse index (IVCCI) in predicting hypotension.

Methods

All parturients planning to perform cesarean section (CS) were randomly divided into supine group and 15° group. Their parameters of IVC were measured by ultrasound and then calculated the IVCCI. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and heart rate (HR) in two positions were recorded from baseline to fetal delivery.

Results

The IVCCI in the 15° group was significantly lower when compared with that in the supine group (20.40 [18.84–21.60] vs. 21.82 [20.16–22.79] %, p = 0.012). The incidence of hypotension was observed statistically lower in the 15° group than the supine group (27.5% vs. 50%, p = 0.039). Best cut‐off value was 21.69% and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of IVCCI in supine position to predict hypotension was 0.93. Best cut‐off value was 21.78% and area under the ROC curve of IVCCI in supine position to predict hypotension was 0.80.

Conclusions

The 15° left operating table tilt can relieve the extent of compression of IVC and reduce the incidence of hypotension. IVCCI can predict the occurrence of hypotension.
Auxiliary and experimental diagnostic techniques for hydatidiform moles
Authors: Usui Hirokazu
Published: September 2022

Hydatidiform moles are classified into complete hydatidiform moles (CHMs), which are androgenetic and diploid, and partial hydatidiform moles (PHM), which are triploid with two paternal chromosomes and one maternal chromosome. The incidence of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia differs substantially between CHM and PHM. However, they are occasionally difficult to diagnose. In this review, auxiliary and experimental methods based on cytogenetic features and advanced molecular detection techniques applied to the diagnosis and analysis of hydatidiform moles are summarized, including basic principles, characteristics, and clinical implications. Short tandem repeat polymorphism analysis is considered the gold standard for the genetic diagnosis of hydatidiform moles. In clinical settings, immunohistochemical analyses of p57KIP2, an imprinted gene product, are widely used to differentiate CHMs from other conceptuses, including PHMs. Recently, new molecular genetic techniques, such as single nucleotide polymorphism arrays, have been applied to research on hydatidiform moles. In addition to insights from classical methods, such as chromosome analysis, recently developed approaches have yielded novel findings related to the mechanism underlying the development of androgenetic CHMs.
Guglielmo Ferrero (1896), Ibn Kaldoun: an Arab Sociologist of the Fourteenth Century
Authors: Alatas Masturah
Published: September 2022

Ferrero introduces the life of ibn Khaldun and his Prolegomena to History, relying on William Mac Guckin de Slane's French translation of the work. Ferrero is one of the first Europeans to define ibn Khaldun as a sociologist and an original theorist of the concept of civilization as a sociological category. Ferrero's attention to the Khaldunian notion of the “spirit of the body” helps us understand what drives conflict and social change when nomadic and barbarous tribes come into contact with civilized peoples. Ferrero admired and saw contemporary value in ibn Khaldun's analysis of the mechanism behind the rise and fall of empires. Nations and groups are motivated by the zeal to obtain and protect their luxuries; heavy taxation to maintain the wealthy classes lays the ground for corruption and discontent, making societies vulnerable to invasion and control from an outside group, thus regenerating the cycle of civilizational history again.
Older adults’ perceptions and experiences of ageism during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: McDarby Meghan , Ju Catherine H. , Picchiello Matthew C. , Carpenter Brian D.
Published: September 2022

The current study investigates older adults’ perceptions of ageism in the United States during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Using tenets of Stereotype Embodiment Theory and the Behaviors from Intergroup Affect and Stereotypes Map framework, we sought to (a) examine whether older adults experienced ageism as self‐relevant during the pandemic and (b) understand whether older adults experienced certain media messages and interpersonal behaviors during the pandemic and interpreted them as being motivated by potentialpaternalistic age stereotypes. Older adults aged 65 and older recruited from the community (n= 73) participated in a semi‐structured interview about their perspectives on ageism toward older adults during the pandemic. Participants also completed an online survey about their experiences with a range of messages and interpersonal behaviors throughout the pandemic. We thematically analyzed interview data and identified three primary themes: self‐relevance of age stereotypes; awareness of negative, overgeneralized portrayals of older adults; and defenses against self‐relevance of age stereotypes. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and frequency counts and suggest that participants attributed messages and behaviors potentially imbued with paternalistic ageism as motivated primarily by care and concern for older adults. The findings add to the field's understanding of older adults’ experiences and perceptions of ageism in the media and in interpersonal behaviors in the context of COVID‐19.