bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurial mindset strategies in times of crisis: a qualitative study on street food vendors
Authors: Godjali Maria Graciella Bella , Supramaniam Sivakumari
Published: September 2024

Purpose

We aim to explore how the COVID-19 crisis has initiated entrepreneurship amongst micro-scale businesses in the notably vulnerable street food industry. We highlight Malaysian street food vendors’ remarkable resilience as they evolved from informal enterprises into innovative entrepreneurs during the pandemic. This involves comprehending the pandemic’s impact and the coping strategies these businesses adopt to endure, evolve and thrive.

Design/methodology/approach

We carried out a semi-structured interview with 20 street food vendors in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. By using a qualitative approach and integrating theories on appraisal, resource management and self-regulated activities, this paper explores vendors’ experiences on their journey towards becoming entrepreneurs regardless of limited resources.

Findings

Despite the disruption, COVID-19 offers a crucial wake-up call even for micro-scale businesses. We discover the capability of street food vendors to outlast crisis through transformation into individuals with an entrepreneurial mindset. They adapted by diversifying their offerings and implementing new strategies like digital marketing and e-commerce. We also emphasise the contribution of family members in providing psychosocial support and navigating business challenges as an advantage of employing a highly self-efficacious individual within the group. This transformation not only ensures the survival of micro-scale enterprises but also underscores their potential to thrive and innovate, even in the face of adversity.

Originality/value

This paper extends the existing literature on street vending by integrating the appraisal theory of emotion, resource-based view theory and self-efficacy theory to explore how street food vendors with limited resources have managed to transform the informal business nature into an entrepreneurial environment under the pressure of a crisis.
Research on the construction process of supply chain ecosystem led by digital platform enterprises from the perspective of dynamic capability
Authors: Chi Kaoxun , Yan Fei , Zhang Chengxuan , Wang Jianping
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Against the backdrop of the global reshaping of supply chains, supply chain ecosystems have emerged as a critical force in ensuring the high-quality development of enterprises and fostering stable economic growth. However, a systematic theoretical understanding of how to construct these supply chain ecosystems remains nascent. This study aims to explore the mechanism of the process of building supply chain ecosystems between digital innovation platform enterprises and digital trading platform enterprises from the perspective of dynamic capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

An explanatory case study is conducted based on a theoretical framework grounded on dynamic capabilities view. Two preeminent digital platform enterprises in China (Haier and JD.com) are studied. The authors primarily conducted this research by collecting a large volume of these Chinese public materials.

Findings

First, the construction processes of supply chain ecosystems in both digital platform enterprises can be delineated into three stages: embryonic, development and maturity. Second, digital innovation platform enterprises’ construction process is primarily influenced by factors such as production and operational collaboration, consumer demand and research and development. This influence is exerted through interactions on digital platforms and within sub-ecosystems. Meanwhile, digital trading platform enterprises’ construction process is influenced by factors such as infrastructure development, consumer demand and financial support, driving dynamic capability formation through multi-party cooperation and ecological interactions based on conceptual identity.

Practical implications

In the establishment of supply chain ecosystems, digital platform enterprises should prioritize the cultivation of opportunity expansion, resource integration and symbiotic relationship capabilities. Furthermore, this study shows that digital platform enterprises need to actively adjust their interactive relationships with cooperating enterprises based on changes in the market, industry, policies and their own developmental stages.

Originality/value

This study addresses prior deficiencies in understanding the comprehensive construction of supply chain ecosystems and provides significant insights to enhance the theoretical foundation of supply chain ecosystem studies. Additionally, this paper uncovers the dynamic capability development behaviors and contextual features inherent in the construction process of supply chain ecosystems by digital platform enterprises.
Comparison of casein glycations induced by lactose and lactulose
Authors: Shen Yixiao , Kong Yiru , Dong Qi , Yu Ziyin , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon , Liu Ling , Xu Zhimin
Published: September 2024

Effects of lactose and lactulose on the casein glycation process at different times and specific glycation sites were investigated. Lactulose treatment generated higher levels of initial glycation products fructoselysine (1.160 μg/mL) and methylglyoxal (0.266 mg/mL) than lactose treatment which had 0.959 μg/mL and 0.140 mg/mL, respectively. The concentrations of intermediate products Nε‐(Carboxymethyl) lysine (0.654 μg/mL) and Nε‐(Carboxyethyl) lysine (0.154 μg/mL) in the lactulose treatment were approximately 2.5 and 1.1 times higher than these in the lactose treatment, respectively. The glycation induced by lactulose targeted Lys residues and had more glycated peptide fragments and wide‐ranging glycation sites in αs1‐casein. The high degree of casein glycation in lactulose treatment was attributed by the fructose on lactulose which had different pathways in the Maillard reaction, compared with the glucose on lactose. The findings revealed the differences of casein glycations by the two sugars and during thermal processing. The information could be helpful in developing potential approaches to monitor and control glycation reactions in dairy products.
Unveiling the nutrient‐wealth of black soybean: A holistic review of its bioactive compounds and health implications
Authors: Mitharwal Swati , Saini Ayushi , Chauhan Komal , Taneja Neetu K. , Oberoi Harinder Singh
Published: September 2024

Legumes, an essential component of staple diets, hold a prominent place in global cuisines. Soybean stands out as a widely cultivated legume and is valued for its high protein content, dietary fiber, and rich micronutrients. Several varieties of soybean are available, of which black and yellow varieties show dominance in varied countries and cultures. Over time, the cultivation and consumption of black soybeans have markedly reduced compared to the yellow variety. Despite its rich nutritional and therapeutic indices, it has lost its usage over time. Traditionally, it was utilized in oriental medicine for detoxification and anti‐inflammatory potential. However, the antinutrients present in black soybean limit its utilization in the food sector due to their interference with overall nutrient absorption. Several studies in the last few decades have focused on reducing the content of antinutritional factors. However, the information on the use of different processing techniques, both singly and in blends, to reduce antinutrients and enhance the bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of bioactive compounds and varied nutrients is limited and fragmented. Furthermore, studies have highlighted black soybeans’ protective effects against various degenerative diseases. However, the studies on the effect of processing to enhance its antioxidative properties to make them a sought‐after food commodity with nutraceutical potential and therapeutic efficacy are limited and widely scattered. The review aims to consolidate knowledge of diverse processing methods to improve their nutritional and bioactive profile for wider applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Further, it has also highlighted its nutraceutical properties for developing varied functional foods against degenerative diseases to have better therapeutic efficacy.
Associations with early vomiting when using intranasal fentanyl and nitrous oxide for procedural sedation in children: A secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Fauteux‐Lamarre Emmanuelle , Hearps Stephen , McCarthy Michelle , Quinn Nuala , Davidson Andrew , Legge Donna , Lee Katherine J , Palmer Greta M , Hopper Sandy M , Babl Franz E
Published: September 2024

Objective

Intranasal (IN) fentanyl and nitrous oxide (N2O) can be combined to provide procedural sedation and analgesia to children. This combination is advantageous because of rapid onset of action and non‐parenteral administration, but is associated with increased vomiting. We sought to describe the associations of demographic and procedural factors with early vomiting when using this combination in children.

Methods

This was a planned secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial comparing the effect of oral ondansetron versus placebo at a single paediatric hospital. Children aged 3 to <18 years with planned procedural sedation with IN fentanyl and N2O were randomised to receive oral ondansetron or placebo prior to N2O administration. Vomiting was defined as early if occurring during or up to 1 h after N2O delivery. We assessed the relationship between early vomiting, demographic and procedural characteristics.

Results

Participants were recruited between October 2016 and January 2019 and 62 out of 436 (14%) had early vomiting. The risk of early vomiting was 30% higher with higher total dose of fentanyl, risk ratio = 1.3 (95% confidence interval = 1.004–1.59). There was little evidence of a relationship between the occurrence of early vomiting and sex, age, weight, type of procedure, fasting duration, time between fentanyl administration and start of procedure, and procedure duration.

Conclusion

We found that higher doses of IN fentanyl were associated with higher risk of early vomiting when administered with N2O in children. Other factors did not appear to be associated with vomiting.
Genome‐resolved metagenomics revealed novel microbial taxa with ancient metabolism from macroscopic microbial mat structures inhabiting anoxic deep reefs of a Maldivian Blue Hole
Authors: Doni Lapo , Azzola Annalisa , Oliveri Caterina , Bosi Emanuele , Auguste Manon , Morri Carla , Bianchi Carlo Nike , Montefalcone Monica , Vezzulli Luigi
Published: September 2024

Blue holes are vertical water‐filled openings in carbonate rock that exhibit complex morphology, ecology, and water chemistry. In this study, macroscopic microbial mat structures found in complete anoxic conditions in the Faanu Mudugau Blue Hole (Maldives) were studied by metagenomic methods. Such communities have likely been evolutionary isolated from the surrounding marine environment for more than 10,000 years since the Blue Hole formation during the last Ice Age. A total of 48 high‐quality metagenome‐assembled genomes (MAGs) were recovered, predominantly composed of the phyla Chloroflexota, Proteobacteria and Desulfobacterota. None of these MAGs have been classified to species level (<95% ANI), suggesting the discovery of several new microbial taxa. In particular, MAGs belonging to novel bacterial genera within the order Dehalococcoidales accounted for 20% of the macroscopic mat community. Genome‐resolved metabolic analysis of this dominant microbial fraction revealed a mixotrophic lifestyle based on energy conservation via fermentation, hydrogen metabolism and anaerobic CO2 fixation through the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway. Interestingly, these bacteria showed a high proportion of ancestral genes in their genomes providing intriguing perspectives on mechanisms driving microbial evolution in this peculiar environment. Overall, our results provide new knowledge for understanding microbial life under extreme conditions in blue hole environments.
Extracellular vesicle‐encapsulated miR‐30c‐5p reduces aging‐related liver fibrosis
Authors: Rodrigues Alice C. , Heng Yujing J. , Slack Frank J.
Published: September 2024

Aging is associated with decreased health span, and despite the recent advances made in understanding the mechanisms of aging, no antiaging drug has been approved for therapy. Therefore, strategies to promote a healthy life in aging are desirable. Previous work has shown that chronic treatment with extracellular vesicles (EVs) from young mice prolongs lifespan in old mice, but the mechanism of action of this effect on liver metabolism is not known. Here we investigated the role of treatment with EVs derived from young sedentary (EV‐C) or exercised (EV‐EX) mice in the metabolism of old mice and aimed to identify key youthful‐associated microRNA (miRNA) cargos that could promote healthy liver function. We found that aged mice treated with either EV‐C or EV‐EX had higher insulin sensitivity, higher locomotor activity resulting in longer distance traveled in the cage, and a lower respiratory exchange ratio compared to mice treated with EVs from aged mice (EV‐A). In the liver, treatment with young‐derived EVs reduced aging‐induced liver fibrosis. We identified miR‐30c in the EVs as a possible youth‐associated miRNA as its level was higher in circulating EVs of young mice. Treatment of aged mice with EVs transfected with miR‐30c mimic reduced stellate cell activation in the liver and reduced fibrosis compared to EV‐negative control by targeting Foxo3. Our results suggest that by delivering juvenile EVs to old mice, we can improve their liver health. Moreover, we identified miR‐30c as a candidate for antiaging liver therapy.
Persuasion in veto bargaining
Authors: Kim Jenny S. , Kim Kyungmin , Van Weelden Richard
Published: September 2024

We consider the classic veto bargaining model but allow the agenda setter to engage in persuasion to convince the veto player to approve her proposal. We show that the proposer‐optimal can be achieved either by providing no information or with a simple binary experiment. Proposer chooses to reveal partial information when there is sufficient expected misalignment with Vetoer. In this case, the opportunity to engage in persuasion strictly benefits Proposer and increases the scope to exercise agenda power. We discuss applications and how the optimal experiment can be implemented in practice.
First report of surgery for congenital biliary dilatation using the hinotori™ Surgical Robot System (with video)
Authors: Okui Norimitsu , Kawasaki Yota , Matsumoto Ryu , Okumura Takashi , Oi Hideyuki , Idichi Tetsuya , Yamasaki Yoichi , Mataki Yuko , Ohtsuka Takao
Published: September 2024

Robot‐assisted surgery for congenital biliary dilatation has been evolving primarily with the da Vinci® Surgical System. The hinotori™ Surgical Robot System, developed in Japan, received approval for gastroenterological surgery in 2022. We present the inaugural case of congenital biliary dilatation surgery utilizing the hinotori™ system. A 57‐year‐old woman was referred to our institution for evaluation and treatment of common bile duct dilatation classified under Todani Type Ia congenital biliary dilatation. Robotic resection of the extrahepatic bile duct and hepaticojejunostomy with Roux‐en‐Y were performed. The operation lasted 292 min with minimal blood loss (10 mL). The patient had an uneventful postoperative course and was discharged 10 days after surgery. Robotic surgery using the hinotori™ system for congenital biliary dilatation can be safely performed.
Efficacy and safety of recombinant human thrombopoietin for the treatment of chronic primary immune thrombocytopenia in children and adolescents: A multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled phase III trial
Authors: Ma Jingyao , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhao Libo , Wu Xiaoyan , Yao Yanhua , Liu Wei , Wang Xiaohuan , Ju Xiuli , Shi Xiaodong , Sun Lirong , Zheng Lili , Liu Shu , Qian Jun , Wu Runhui
Published: September 2024

The efficacy and safety of recombinant human thrombopoietin (rhTPO) in children and adolescent patients with chronic primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) remains unclear. A multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled phase III trial was performed. Patients aged 6–17 years, diagnosed with ITP and resistant or relapsed to corticosteroid treatment were included. For the trial, part 1 was exploratory and part 2 was the main analysis, with part 1 determining whether part 2 was stratified by age. Patients in part 1 were treated with rhTPO (the 6‐ to 11‐/12‐ to 17‐year‐old groups; 1:1). Patients in part 2 were randomized (3:1) to receive either rhTPO treatment or placebo. Patients received rhTPO or placebo at a dose of 300 U/kg once daily for up to 14 days. A total of 68 patients were included [part 1 (12 patients), part 2 (56 patients)]. The total response rate (TRR) in part 1 was 50.0% (95% CI: 21.09%–78.91%). For part 2, the TRR was 58.5% (95% CI: 42.11%–73.68%) and 13.3% (95% CI: 1.66%–40.46%) in the rhTPO and placebo groups (FAS) respectively. The difference in TRR between the rhTPO group and placebo group was 45.2% (95% CI: 22.33%–68.08%) and 44.6% (95% CI: 21.27%–67.85%) on the FAS and per‐protocol set (PPS), respectively, which indicates the superiority of rhTPO treatment.
A transcrestal sinus floor elevation strategy based on a haptic robot system: An in vitro study
Authors: Yu Shimin , Wang Yulan , Wang Yunxiao , Miron Richard J. , Yan Qi , Zhang Yufeng
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To reveal the force profiles recorded by haptic autonomous robotic force feedback during the transcrestal sinus floor elevation (TSFE) process, providing a reference for the surgery strategy during TSFE.

Materials and methods

A total of 42 maxillary sinus models with different angles of the sinus floor (30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, and 90°, compared to vertical plane) were 3D printed. Implant site preparation was performed using a robotic system, and the total force (Ft) and axial force along the drill (Fz) during the surgery were recorded by the haptic robotic arm. The actual initial breakthrough point (drill contacting sinus floor) and complete breakthrough point (drill penetrating the sinus floor) were defined visually (the actual IBP and the actual CBP). The theoretical initial breakthrough point (the theoretical IBP) and the theoretical complete breakthrough point (the theoretical CBP) defined by the robot‐guided system and the CBCT were determined by real‐time force feedback and imaging distance measurement, respectively. The distance from the bottom of the resin model to the actual IBP and the actual CBP was defined as Di and Dt, respectively.

Results

The difference in Fz began to increase significantly at 70°, while the difference in Ft became significant at 60°. When the angle was greater than 70°, there was no significant difference in the discrepancy between the actual and theoretical perforation points. Compared to judging the breakthrough point by CBCT, real‐time force feedback TSFE under robotic surgery achieved more accurate initial breakthrough point detection.

Conclusions

The smaller the angle, the larger the breakthrough force for the drill. The real‐time force feedback of haptic robotic system during TSFE could provide reliable reference for dentists. More clinical studies are needed to further validate the application of robotic surgery assisted TSFE.
Biomonitoring of hand and forearm transepidermal water loss and skin pH among nursing apprentices
Authors: Babić Željka , Šakić Franka , Macan Jelena
Published: September 2024

Background

Measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and stratum corneum (SC) pH can help indicate work‐related skin barrier damage, but sensitivity to confounding personal and ambient factors limits their potential as biomonitoring tools.

Objectives

To evaluate the difference between hand and forearm skin barrier conditions as a tool for early recognition of workers with occupational contact dermatitis.

Participants and Methods

The participants were nursing apprentices (N = 238, median age 19 years) from Zagreb, Croatia. They filled out a questionnaire based on the Nordic Occupational Skin Questionnaire, underwent a clinical examination of skin on the hands, and were evaluated for their TEWL and SC pH on the dorsum of the hand and volar part of the forearm.

Results

We found that the difference between hand and forearm TEWL values (ΔTEWL) greater than 7 g/m2/h, or >50%, or the difference in SC ΔpH >0.50, predicted visible skin changes found on clinical examination. However, only the association with ΔpH >0.50 retained statistical significance when controlled for sex, age, ambient temperature, and relative humidity in a multiple regression model.

Conclusions

The difference between hand and forearm SC pH values is suggested as a reliable biomonitoring tool in recognition of damaged skin barrier conditions in occupational settings.
Identifying Pareto‐efficient eradication strategies for invasive populations
Authors: Yackel Adams Amy A. , Hostetter Nathan J. , Link William A. , Converse Sarah J.
Published: September 2024

Invasive species are a major cause of biodiversity loss and are notoriously expensive and challenging to manage. We developed a decision‐analytic framework for evaluating invasive species removal strategies, given objectives of maximizing eradication probability and minimizing costs. The framework uses an existing estimation model for spatially referenced removal data—one of the most accessible types of invasive species data—to obtain estimates of population growth rate, movement probability, and detection probability. We use these estimates in simulations to identify Pareto‐efficient strategies—strategies where increases in eradication probability cannot be obtained without increases in cost—from a set of proposed strategies. We applied the framework post hoc to a successful eradication of veiled chameleons (Chamaeleo calyptratus) and identified the potential for substantial improvements in efficiency. Our approach provides managers and policymakers with tools to identify cost‐effective strategies for a range of invasive species using only prior knowledge or data from initial physical removals.
‘Effects of dehydration on central blood pressure in young healthy adults’
Authors: Giddings Madeleine L. , Auringer Jacob P. , Meier Nathan F. , Lefferts Elizabeth C. , Wang Chong , Kane‐Barnese Lindsay
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Brachial blood pressure (BP) is the current gold standard for BP assessment; however, measures of pulse wave velocity (PWV) and central blood pressure (CBP) may contribute uniquely to assessment of cardiovascular health status. As of yet, standards for assessment of CBP and PWV have not addressed the impact of hydration status on proper measurement. To understand the impact of hydration, PWV and CBP should be measured in a euhydrated and hypohydrated state.

Methods

Forty‐three young, healthy participants (21 ± 2 years) completed a dehydration protocol utilizing moderate aerobic activity until they lost 1%–2% of their body weight. PWV and CBP were measured before and following the dehydration protocol. Linear regression was utilized to assess change in hydration status and change in PWV and CBP.

Results

No significant relationships were observed between the change in hydration status (% body weight lost) and PWV (β = 0.05, p = 0.78) or central diastolic BP (β = −3.8, p = 0.10), however, a significant relationship was observed with central systolic BP (β = −5.0, p = 0.03).

Discussion

In conclusion, the assessment of hydration status before measurement of CBP or PWV may not be necessary in young, healthy individuals.
The association of glycaemic risk factors and diabetes duration with risk of heart failure in people with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tabesh Mahtab , Sacre Julian W. , Mehta Kanika , Chen Lei , Sajjadi Seyeddeh Forough , Magliano Dianna J. , Shaw Jonathan E.
Published: September 2024

Aims

To conduct a systematic review in order to better understand the association of glycaemic risk factors and diabetes duration with risk of heart failure (HF) in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

We identified longitudinal studies investigating the association of glycaemic factors (glycated haemoglobin [HbA1c], HbA1c variability, and hypoglycaemia) and diabetes duration with HF in individuals with T2D. Hazard ratios and odds ratios were extracted and meta‐analysed using a random‐effects model where appropriate. Risk of bias assessment was carried out using a modified Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Egger's test along with the trim‐and‐fill method were used to assess and account for publication bias.

Results

Forty studies representing 4 102 589 people met the inclusion criteria. The risk of developing HF significantly increased by 15% for each percentage point increase in HbA1c, by 2% for each additional year of diabetes duration, and by 43% for having a history of severe hypoglycaemia. Additionally, variability in HbA1c levels was associated with a 20%–26% increased risk of HF for each unit increase in the metrics of variability (HbA1c standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and average successive variability). All included studies scored high in the risk of bias assessment. Egger's test suggested publication bias, with trim‐and‐fill analyses revealing a significant 14% increased risk of HF per percentage point increase in HbA1c.

Conclusions

Glycaemic risk factors and diabetes duration significantly contribute to the heightened risk of HF among individuals with T2D. A reduction in risk of HF is anticipated with better management of glycaemic risk factors.
Dealing With Assumptions and Sampling Bias in the Estimation of Effective Population Size: A Case Study in an Amphibian Population
Authors: Cox Karen , Neyrinck Sabrina , Mergeay Joachim
Published: September 2024

Accurately estimating effective population size (Ne) is essential for understanding evolutionary processes and guiding conservation efforts. This study investigates Ne estimation methods in spatially structured populations using a population of moor frog (Rana arvalis) as a case study. We assessed the behaviour of Ne estimates derived from the linkage disequilibrium (LD) method as we changed the spatial configuration of samples. Moor frog eggs were sampled from 25 breeding patches (i.e., separate vernal ponds, ditches or parts of larger fens) within a single population, revealing an isolation‐by‐distance pattern and a local spatial genetic structure. Varying buffer sizes around each patch were used to examine the impact of sampling window size on the estimation of effective number of breeders (Nb). Our results indicate a downward bias in LD Nb estimates with increasing buffer size, suggesting an underestimation of Nb. The observed bias is attributed to LD resulting from including genetically divergent individuals (mixture‐LD) confounding LD due to drift. This emphasises the significance of considering even subtle spatial genetic patterns. The implications of these findings are discussed, emphasising the need to account for spatial genetic structure to accurately assess population viability and inform conservation efforts. This study contributes to our understanding of the challenges associated with Ne estimation in spatially structured populations and underscores the importance of refining methodologies to address population‐specific spatial dynamics for effective conservation planning and management.
“I remember most of my family seeing it”: The presence of others during child physical abuse, as conveyed in forensic interviews with Israeli children
Authors: Klebanov Bella , Katz Carmit
Published: September 2024

Child physical abuse is often perceived as a crime perpetrated within the family and out of sight. However, recent studies have indicated the presence of others during incidents of physical abuse. The current study was designed to examine the experiences and perceptions of children who were physically abused in their families concerning the presence of others, as conveyed during their forensic interviews. A thematic analysis of 26 forensic interviews was conducted with Israeli children aged 5–13. Three main themes were identified: (1) Patterns, roles, and coping mechanisms: The multifaceted spectrum of familial abuse; (2) The echoes of family reactions: Shaping children's abuse experiences; and (3) Navigating the storm together: Sibling bonds amidst familial abuse. The children's narratives highlighted their distress and pointed to the abusive and chaotic daily routine in which they lived. In spotlighting their encounters with physical abuse, the children focused on their need to be seen and gain certainty in their daily routines. The discussion highlights the unique and elusive dynamics of families in which child physical abuse occurs and challenges the social perception that physical abuse occurs secretly. The characteristics of such abuse highlight the urgent need for policymakers and professionals to treat the phenomenon of physical abuse within the family as a visible phenomenon.
A post‐processing framework for assessing BirdNET identification accuracy and community composition
Authors: Thompson Michael C. , Ducey Mark J. , Gunn John S. , Rowe Rebecca J.
Published: September 2024

Passively collected acoustic data have become increasingly common in wildlife research and have prompted the development of machine‐learning approaches to extract and classify large sets of audio files. BirdNET is an open‐source automatic prediction model that is popular because of its lack of training requirements for end users. Several studies have sought to test the accuracy of BirdNET and illustrate its potential in occupancy modelling of single or multiple species. However, these techniques either require extensive statistical knowledge or computational power to be applied to large datasets. In addition, there is a lack of comparisons of occupancy and community composition calculated using BirdNET and typical field methods. Here we develop a framework for assessing the accuracy of BirdNET using generalized linear mixed models to determine species‐specific confidence score thresholds. We then compare community composition under our model and another post‐processing approach to field data collected from co‐located point count surveys in northeastern Vermont. Our framework outperformed the other post‐processing method and resulted in species composition similar to that of point count surveys. Our work highlights the potential mismatch between accuracy and confidence score and the importance of developing species‐specific thresholds. The framework can facilitate research on large acoustic datasets and can be applied to output from BirdNET or other automatic prediction models.
The crack‐healing behavior and oxidation resistance of Al2O3–ZrO2–SiB6 ceramic at 600–1200°C
Authors: Cai Haopeng , Jiang Kun , Gao Lihua , Wei Yinglong
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we prepared Al2O3–ZrO2–SiB6 composite ceramics with excellent performance by introducing the second‐phase high‐strength healing agent SiB6 in zirconia‐toughened alumina system, artificially created cracks using Vickers hardness tester, investigated the effects of heat treatment temperature (600–1200°C) and time (0–300 min) on the microscopic morphology and bending strength of the ceramics, revealed the healing mechanism, and studied the oxidation resistance properties. It was found that the healing effect was better at heat treatment of 90 min at 700°C and 60 min at 800°C, and the flexural strength was restored to more than 95% of that of the smooth specimens in both cases. Crack repair was mainly achieved by the reaction of SiB6, ZrB2, and B4C with O2. Below 800°C, healing was mainly achieved by the reaction of SiB6 and B4C with O2, and the generated B2O3 and SiO2 migrated toward the crack to repair it. When the healing temperature is higher than 800°C, ZrB2 also reacts with oxygen to produce B2O3 and t‐ZrO2. It was found that the oxidation weight gain per unit area of the Al2O3–ZrO2–SiB6 ceramic composite at different temperatures was small, and it has excellent oxidation resistance.
Fabrication and characterization of silicon carbide ceramic filtration media via recycling of waste red mud
Authors: Santra Nilanjan , Ghosh Tamal , Kayal Nijhuma
Published: September 2024

A porous silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic filter was prepared at 1000°C using waste red mud (RM), SiC, pore‐forming agent, and catalyst. The influence of sintering temperature, RM content, and pore former on the mechanical performance and the porosity of porous ceramics were investigated, and based on the result optimal processing parameters were selected. The air and water permeability tests were carried out at room temperature. The stability of the ceramic filter under thermal shock and chemical treatment was investigated and corroded samples were characterized. The ceramic was prepared using optimized processing parameters obtained with a flexural strength of 65.36 MPa at a porosity of 30.15 vol.% and demonstrated good performance in terms of pure water flux, oil, and turbidity removal efficiency from industrial wastewater. The filtration and permeation results indicated that the SiC filter prepared in this study is suitable for various applications, particularly in the remediation of oil‐polluted water.
A scalable, spin‐free approach to generate enhanced induced pluripotent stem cell–derived natural killer cells for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Rossi Gustavo R , Sun Jane , Lin Cheng‐Yu , Wong Joshua KM , Alim Louisa , Lam Pui Yeng , Khosrotehrani Kiarash , Wolvetang Ernst , Cheetham Seth W , Derrick Emily B , Amoako Akwasi , Lehner Christoph , Brooks Andrew J , Beavis Paul A , Souza‐Fonseca‐Guimaraes Fernando
Published: September 2024

Natural killer (NK) cells play a vital role in innate immunity and show great promise in cancer immunotherapy. Traditional sources of NK cells, such as the peripheral blood, are limited by availability and donor variability. In addition, in vitro expansion can lead to functional exhaustion and gene editing challenges. This study aimed to harness induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology to provide a consistent and scalable source of NK cells, overcoming the limitations of traditional sources and enhancing the potential for cancer immunotherapy applications. We developed human placental–derived iPSC lines using reprogramming techniques. Subsequently, an optimized two‐step differentiation protocol was introduced to generate high‐purity NK cells. Initially, iPSCs were differentiated into hematopoietic‐like stem cells using spin‐free embryoid bodies (EBs). Subsequently, the EBs were transferred to ultra‐low attachment plates to induce NK cell differentiation. iPSC‐derived NK (iNK) cells expressed common NK cell markers (NKp46, NKp30, NKp44, CD16 and eomesodermin) at both RNA and protein levels. iNK cells demonstrated significant resilience to cryopreservation and exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity. The incorporation of a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) construct further augmented their cytotoxic potential. This study exemplifies the feasibility of generating iNK cells with high purity and enhanced functional capabilities, their improved resilience to cryopreservation and the potential to have augmented cytotoxicity through CAR expression. Our findings offer a promising pathway for the development of potential cellular immunotherapies, highlighting the critical role of iPSC technology in overcoming challenges associated with traditional NK cell sources.
Clinical Validation of the Nursing Diagnosis ‘Inadequate Health Self‐Efficacy’ in People With Hypertension
Authors: Barreiro Reinaldo Gutiérrez , Lopes Marcos Venícios de Oliveira
Published: September 2024

Aims

To test the clinical validity of clinical indicators and causal relationships of aetiological factors of the new nursing diagnosis of inadequate health self‐efficacy in people with hypertension.

Background

The diagnosis of inadequate health self‐efficacy has both theoretical and content validity. However, a clinical validation study is needed to establish an appropriate framework for distinguishing individuals who manifest this unique human response.

Design

The study adopts a cross‐sectional clinical validation approach, adhering strictly to the STROBE guidelines throughout its design and implementation.

Methods

Naturalistic sampling was used to identify 302 adults diagnosed with hypertension. Their data were subjected to latent class analysis, which facilitated the identification of a comprehensive set of clinical indicators that demonstrated better diagnostic accuracy and established posterior probabilities to guide the inference of inadequate health self‐efficacy. In addition, logistic regression analysis was used to assess the magnitude of the impact of aetiological factors.

Results

The prevalence of inadequate health self‐efficacy was 76.61%. Among the 13 indicators examined, seven demonstrated notable sensitivity: ‘risk‐prone health behaviour’, ‘failure to take action that prevents health problems’, ‘inadequate self‐control’, ‘avoidance behaviours’, ‘negative health self‐perception’, ‘inadequate health‐related quality of life’ and ‘difficulty feeling good about adopting a healthy lifestyle’. Additionally, two indicators showed high specificity: ‘difficulty feeling good about adopting a healthy lifestyle’ and ‘inadequate adherence to treatment regimen’. Notably, 15 aetiological factors were identified as significantly associated with an increased risk of inadequate health self‐efficacy.

Conclusions

A clinical framework consisting of eight clinical indicators and 15 aetiological factors was developed to characterise inadequate health self‐efficacy in individuals with hypertension.

Relevance to Practice

Clinical validation provides insight into the precision of clinical indicators and the magnitude of the effect of putative causal elements, thereby facilitating identification and tailored intervention for individuals with hypertension and inadequate health self‐efficacy.
Unravelling the Complexity of Ginger Rhizome Rot Disease: A Focus on Pathogen Interactions
Authors: T.S Archana , Mesta R. K. , Basavarajappa M. P. , Kiran Kumar K. C.
Published: September 2024

Rhizome rot poses a significant threat to ginger cultivation, caused by a complex interaction of pathogens such as Pythium aphanidermatum, Fusarium oxysporum, Ralstonia solanacearum, Sclerotium rolfsii and Meloidogyne incognita. The pathogens were individually inoculated at 75, 105 and 135 days after planting (DAP), as well as in various combinations, to evaluate disease severity and symptom development. Results revealed that R. solanacearum exhibited the highest disease severity and fastest symptom development across all stages of inoculation, followed by P. aphanidermatum, F. oxysporum, S. rolfsii and M. incognita. The combined inoculation of pathogens significantly increased disease incidence and rhizome rot compared to individual inoculations, indicating synergistic interactions among the pathogens. Sequential inoculation experiments demonstrated that pre‐infection by M. incognita exacerbated disease severity, highlighting the role of nematodes in predisposing plants to secondary infections.
The electoral consequences of the political divide on climate change
Authors: Kim JunYun
Published: September 2024

This paper examines how climate change has become a polarizing and politicized issue in the United States and assesses the relationship between regional exposure to the green economy and voting in US elections over the course of a decade. After measuring the share of employment related to the green economy at county level, I estimate the impact of county‐level exposure to this economy on the share of votes cast for Democrats in elections for the House of Representatives and the Presidency. I find that US counties that have been more exposed to the green economy have increased their share of votes cast for Democrats in Congressional elections since the 2016 elections, based on both county‐level and constructed district‐level data. This is because Democratic politicians are considerably more likely to adopt pro‐green positions, making them an attractive choice for voters seeking representatives who will promote green policies. This paper also finds that a shift toward Democratic candidates has mostly occurred in Republican incumbent districts with a high proportion of green‐intensive employment that did not receive any support for green investment from the government after 2016. The results imply that climate change has become an important determinant of voting decisions and that this change in motivation on the part of voters has come about primarily with the aim of punishing Republican incumbents rather than rewarding Democratic incumbents or challengers.
Systematic synthesis and identification of monolignol pathway metabolites
Authors: Kao Chung‐Ting , Yang Fan‐Wei , Wu Meng‐Chen , Hung Tzu‐Huan , Hu Chen‐Wei , Chen Chiu‐Hua , Liou Pin‐Chien , Mai Te‐Lun , Chang Chia‐Chih , Lin Tung‐Yi , Chen Ying‐Lan , Lin Ying‐Chung Jimmy , Su Jung‐Chen
Published: September 2024

Monolignol serves as the building blocks to constitute lignin, the second abundant polymer on Earth. Despite two decades of diligent efforts, complete identification of all metabolites in the currently proposed monolignol biosynthesis pathway has proven elusive. This limitation also hampers their potential application. One of the primary obstacles is the challenge of assembling a collection of all molecules, because many are commercially unavailable or prohibitively costly. In this study, we established systematic pipelines to synthesize all 24 molecules through the conversions between functional groups on a core structure followed by the application to other core structures. We successfully identified all of them in Populus trichocarpa and Eucalyptus grandis, two representative species respectively from malpighiales and myrtales in angiosperms. Knowledge about monolignol metabolite chemosynthesis and identification will form the foundation for future studies.
Putative epithelial–mesenchymal transitions during salamander limb regeneration: Current perspectives and future investigations
Authors: Kim Ryan T. , Whited Jessica L.
Published: September 2024

Previous studies have implicated epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in salamander limb regeneration. In this review, we describe putative roles for EMT during each stage of limb regeneration in axolotls and other salamanders. We hypothesize that EMT and EMT‐like gene expression programs may regulate three main cellular processes during limb regeneration: (1) keratinocyte migration during wound closure; (2) transient invasion of the stump by epithelial cells undergoing EMT; and (3) use of EMT‐like programs by non‐epithelial blastemal progenitor cells to escape the confines of their niches. Finally, we propose nontraditional roles for EMT during limb regeneration that warrant further investigation, including alternative EMT regulators, stem cell activation, and fibrosis induced by aberrant EMT.
‘Cheering on from the side‐lines’: The perceived impact of romantic partner's commentary and behaviour on maintaining women's appearance anxiety
Authors: Lumsdale Gemma Stephanie , Frith Hannah , Hale Lucy
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Appearance anxiety (AA) is a probable risk factor for body dysmorphic disorder and a prevalent and debilitating concern. Extant literature suggests that romantic partners’ commentary and accommodation behaviour may contribute to women's appearance concerns. The aim of this study is to explore how women experience and make sense of romantic partner feedback about their appearance.

Design

Qualitative semi‐structured interview study.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews with 13 cis‐gender women explored how they make sense of appearance anxiety in the context of romantic relationships. Reflexive thematic analysis with a hybrid inductive‐deductive coding approach was utilised, drawing on cognitive behavioural theory (CBT) as a theoretical lens to interpret the data.

Results

Four themes were created from the data: (1) ‘Then he said to me … you could probably tone up a bit’: Maintaining cycles; (2) ‘I think those comments down the line do eventually help’: breaking out of maintenance cycles, (3) ‘It's like they're talking in a foreign language’; beliefs as a filter and (4) ‘Cheering me on from the side‐lines’; romantic partner a supportive coach. These themes highlight the perceived unhelpful (e.g. accommodation of behaviours) and helpful (e.g. affection) impact of romantic partners' behaviours and commentary on participants’ AA.

Conclusions

Romantic partners are perceived by women to have a potent impact on their AA. Clinical practice implications include involving romantic partners in treatment, and clinicians using their formulation and CBT skills (e.g. Socratic questioning), to understand and target these possible maintenance processes within couples.
Chronotropic Response to Exercise is Decreased in Patients With Congenital Heart Disease Compared to Cardiomyopathy Following Pediatric Heart Transplantation
Authors: Otto‐Meyer Sebastian , Wang Alan P. , Griffith Garett J. , Gambetta Katheryn , Ward Kendra
Published: September 2024

Background

Two common indications for pediatric heart transplantation are congenital heart disease and cardiomyopathy. Prior studies suggest differences in chronotropy on cardiopulmonary exercise testing outcomes depending on indication for heart transplantation. We aimed to determine whether the number of pretransplant sternotomies is associated with differences in heart rate response during exercise testing.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of our institutional pediatric heart transplant data between 2004 and 2022 was performed. Patients were categorized by indication for transplantation into a cardiomyopathy (CM) group if they had a congenital or acquired cardiomyopathy or a congenital heart disease (CHD) group including all other forms of congenital cardiac anatomic abnormalities.

Results

CHD patients (n = 40) differed from CM patients (n = 53) by mean number of sternotomies prior to transplant (2.4 ± 1.8 vs. 0.5 ± 0.9, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in echocardiographic function or catheterization hemodynamics. In cardiopulmonary exercise testing performance, the congenital heart disease group had a significantly higher resting heart rate (91.8 ± 11.2 vs. 86.4 ± 10.2 bpm, p = 0.019), lower percent predicted age‐predicted maximal heart rate achieved (78.3 ± 8.5% vs. 83.2 ± 11.4%, p = 0.032), and lower heart rate reserve (68.6 ± 19.8 vs. 84.4 ± 24.0 bpm, p = 0.001) despite a similar age and average time from transplantation. Regression analysis confirmed number of pretransplant sternotomies as a main predictor of heart rate metrics.

Conclusions

There is greater chronotropic incompetence in patients who underwent transplantation due to congenital heart disease compared to cardiomyopathy. The groups differ significantly by number of sternotomies, potentially supporting the hypothesis that prior surgical disruption of cardiac innervation may cause decreased chronotropic response to exercise following transplantation.