bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Sympatholytic Effects of SGLT2 Inhibitors in Anuric Haemodialysis Patients Using Microneurography: Study Protocol for a Mechanistic Proof-of-Concept Trial
Authors: See Aaron Yee Shuen , Blazeska Evgenija , Shaban Awf Abdulrahman , Thomas Mark , Nejad Sayeh Heidari , Dornelles Antonella Soarez , Joyson Anu , Burrows Sally , Schlaich Markus , Thiruvengadam Srivathsan
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have been shown to provide effective cardiorenal protection, reducing mortality in conditions such as heart failure and chronic kidney disease. While several mechanisms have been identified, recent research has shed light on the drug’s ability to attenuate sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity. Controversy exists on whether this is due to the extra-renal effects of the drug, or simply due to its renoprotective effects. However, recent trials have highlighted the persistent efficacy of SGLT2i despite declining renal function. Therefore, investigating the ability of SGLT2i to attenuate the SNS independently of the kidney could lead to more insight into its mechanism of action. So far, there has been limited research done on investigating the extra-renal effects of SGLT2i in human subjects on dialysis where the glycosuric renal effects of SGLT2i are negligible. This current study therefore aims to investigate the effects of SGLT2i on the SNS in anuric haemodialysis patients. Methods: We developed a protocol for a mechanistic study to investigate the extra-renal effects of SGLT2i on the SNS. The study will be an investigator-led, open-label, prospective study involving 20 adult (aged ≥18 years) haemodialysis patients with a residual urine output of ≤250 mL/day. Participants will be administered empagliflozin 25 mg/day for 6 weeks. Baseline SNS activity will be measured before and after administration by microneurography to assess central SNS outflow. Secondary outcomes such as changes from baseline in SNS stressor response, heart rate variability, and endothelial function will also be examined. We hypothesize that the use of empagliflozin will result in reduced sympathetic drive in anuric haemodialysis patients. Discussion: This will be the first study evaluating the effects of SGLT2i on the SNS in haemodialysis subjects. This study aims to enhance our understanding of the potential role of SGLT2i-induced SNS reduction in the setting of markedly reduced renal function. The study has received ethics approval from the Royal Perth Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (RGS0000003840) (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry [ANZCTR] ID: ACTRN12623001237673).
Lobectomy with Lymph Node Dissection Benefits N3 Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Tian Zhoujunyi , Zhang Jin , Liu Deruo , Liang Chaoyang
Published: September 2024

Introduction: There remain controversies about the role of surgery for N3 stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Methods: N3 stage NSCLC patients were identified from the US National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2010–2020). Survival analysis and multivariate regression models were used to adjust covariates and analyze factors associated with survival. Propensity score matching was used to balance selection bias. Results: Of 6,473 included patients, 121 received treatment that included lobectomy with mediastinal lymph node dissection. Overall survival (OS) was significantly prolonged in the lobectomy group than in the nonsurgery group (median survival time [MST]: 57 vs. 16 months; log-rank p < 0.001). A total of 403 patients were matched, and OS was significant longer in the lobectomy group (MST: 51 vs. 16 months; log-rank p < 0.001). Multivariate regression analyses indicated that lobectomy was independently associated with improved OS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.398, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.302–0.526; p < 0.001) and lung cancer-specific death (LCSD) (subhazard ratio [SHR] 0.343, 95% CI: 0.249–0.474; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Compared with nonsurgical treatment modalities, lobectomy with lymph node dissection was associated with improved OS and LCSD in selected N3 stage NSCLC patients.
Dose-Dependent Effect of Current Smoking on Enlarged Perivascular Space Identified on Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Omori Naoki , Ikawa Fusao , Chiku Masaaki , Kitamura Naoyuki , Tomimoto Hidekazu , Aoyama Atsuo , Shuhei Yamaguchi , Nagai Atsushi
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Cerebral small-vessel disease (CSVD) is a common cause of cognitive decline and stroke. Several studies have shown that smoking is a risk factor for CSVD progression. However, the extent to which smoking exacerbates CSVD lesions remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to clarify the association between total smoking exposure and the severity of CSVD in healthy participants. Methods: We analyzed the data of participants aged ≥50 years who underwent brain screening. The participants’ age, sex, body mass index, alcohol consumption history, and medical history (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia) were investigated. Smoking status was assessed in pack-years, and smokers were classified as current or past smokers. CSVD findings on magnetic resonance imaging were used to evaluate the severity of periventricular hyperintensity (PVH), deep subcortical white matter hyperintensity (DSWMH), and enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVSs). The EPVSs were measured in the basal ganglia and centrum semiovale regions. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the effect of smoking, adjusted for the participants’ baseline characteristics. Results: A total of 2,137 participants were included in this study. The mean age of the participants was 58.7 years. The mean pack-years were 20.5 for past smokers and 26.8 for current smokers. Among current smokers, increased pack-years were significantly associated with a high EPVS burden in the basal ganglia (odds ratio: 1.14, 95% confidence interval: 1.00–1.28), whereas no such significant association was found for past smokers. No statistically significant association was found between pack-years and the risks of PVH, DSWMH, or EPVS in the centrum semiovale. Conclusion: Current smoking was associated with a dose-dependent risk of EPVS in the basal ganglia in healthy participants.
Epidemiology and Outcomes Associated with Cognitive Frailty and Reserve in a Stroke Population: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Binning Lauren , Basquill Catriona , Tvrda Lucie , Quinn Terry
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Cognitive frailty and the related concepts of cognitive reserve and imaging-based brain frailty are of increasing interest in older adult care. However, there is uncertainty regarding their importance within a stroke population. We aimed to establish the prevalence of cognitive frailty and reserve in stroke and determine impact on outcomes. Methods: We conducted a systematic review across multidisciplinary electronic databases using validated search syntax. The protocol for this review has been published (PROSPERO, CRD42023433385). We identified studies on cognitive frailty and cognitive reserve, including studies that used related concepts. We extracted data to inform estimates of prevalence and associations with outcomes of physical function, cognition and quality of life, performing meta-analyses where possible. Risk of bias was assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa tools appropriate to study design. Results: Our search returned 12,095 studies, from which 14 papers met our criteria. No studies described cognitive frailty, and rather studies described cognitive reserve and brain frailty. Cognitive reserve was assessed using proxy measures of education, employment, and leisure time. Four studies used the Cognitive Reserve Index Questionnaire (CRIq) with pooled estimate score of 103.25, 95% CI: 96.87–109.65 (indicating moderate cognitive reserve). Cognitive reserve had varying associations with post-stroke outcomes, three studies (n = 7,759 participants) reporting significant negative association with cognitive measures. Brain frailty was assessed using imaging markers. Across four studies (n = 3,086 participants), pooled prevalence of brain frailty was 73.8%, 95% CI: 72.2–75.3. Higher brain frailty was associated with poorer post-stroke outcomes for majority of studies assessed. Seven studies (50%) were scored as low risk of bias. Conclusion: Attempts to synthesise these data were complicated by inconsistency in terminology and heterogeneity in methods. However, our findings suggest that brain frailty is common in stroke and associated with poorer outcomes. The epidemiology of cognitive frailty and reserve is less well described. All these measures may be useful for prognostication in stroke, but there are multiple areas where more research is needed.
Racial and Geographic Differences in Endometrial Cancer Death
Authors: Tan Jia Yi , Yeo Yong Hao , Thong Jia Yean , Saleh Sabera , Mbenga Kelly , Guron Gunwant , Shaaban Hamid S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction: In the USA, endometrial cancer incidence rose by 4.5% annually from 1999 to 2015, reaching 18 per 100,000 women, with a disproportionate impact on African American women. Despite advancements in endometrial cancer research, racial disparities in mortality rates persist. Our retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the mortality trends and disparities among patients with endometrial cancer in the USA. Methods: Patients with endometrial cancer mortality from 1999 to 2020 were analyzed from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER). Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 individuals were compared across different races and geographical regions. Results: From 1999 to 2020, endometrial cancer accounted for 90,145 deaths in the USA. Overall, the AAMRs of endometrial cancer increased significantly from 2.50 (95% CI, 2.41–2.58) in 1999 to 3.94 (95% CI, 3.85–4.04) per 100,000 individuals in 2020, with an AAPC of +2.23 (95% CI, 1.39–3.07). The highest AAMR was observed among African Americans (2.69 [95% CI, 2.65–2.74]), followed by whites (1.44 [95% CI, 1.43–1.45]), Hispanics (1.16 [95% CI, 1.13–1.20]), Asians (1.00 [95% CI, 0.96–1.04]), and American Indians (0.99 [95% CI, 0.88–1.10]). The highest AAMR from endometrial cancer was recorded in the Northeast region (1.73 [95% CI, 1.71–1.76]). Conclusion: There was an increasing trend of mortality rates from endometrial cancer in the last 2 decades, which disproportionately affected African Americans. Targeted interventions are warranted to address the mortality disparities among patients with endometrial cancer.
Notas sobre escultura e Notas sobre escultura, parte 2
Authors: Morris Robert , Silva Renato Rodrigues da
Published: September 2024

The articles “Notes on Sculpture” and “Notes on Sculpture, Part 2” by Robert Morris mark a milestone in the history of sculpture, challenging traditional notions of form and function. The emphasis on basic geometric elements and the understanding of sculpture as a spatial event, rather than a static object, transformed artistic discourse. By proposing an approach centered on the viewer’s experience and the work’s interaction with the environment, Morris paved the way for Minimalism. Through his reflections, the artist significantly expanded the possibilities of sculpture, influencing contemporary art production and criticism in a decisive manner.
Effects of different feed additives on the development of ovaries and testicles in the ridgetail white shrimp Exopalaemon carinicauda (Decapoda, Caridea, Palaemonidae)
Authors: Pang Zhiyu , Zhao Zhenhui , Zhao Yu , Liu Xue , Deng Deng , Yan Binlun , Azra Mohamad Nor , Baloch Wazir Ali , Gao Huan
Published: September 2024

To solve the problem of unsynchronized gonadal development in Exopalaemon carinicauda, different feed additives were evaluated for their effect on gonadal development among female and male individuals. Different concentrations of Schizochytrium (0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%), Porphyridium cruentum (0, 0.5, 1 and 2%) and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) creatinine sulfate (0, 0.0025, 0.005 and 0.01%) were used. For females, the gonadal index of E. carinicauda was significantly higher with the addition of 6% Schizochytrium, 1% P. cruentum, and 0.0025% 5-HT creatinine sulfate (). The ovarian development rate reached its highest at 79.30 ± 2.64%, and the final contents of blood ovarian vitellogen and oestradiol were significantly higher, compared to the other groups (). For males, the gonadal index was higher with the addition of 9% Schizochytrium, 0% P. cruentum and 0.01% 5-HT creatinine sulfate, although the difference was not significant (). No significant difference was found in the sperm survival rate (), but the activities of sperm total ATPase and lactate dehydrogenase showed significant differences in each group (). Overall, we report the effects of the three additives on gonadal development in E. carinicauda, with females showing the more significant effects.
Shell chirality and phylogeography of land snail Satsuma batanica species group (Gastropoda: Stylommatophora: Camaenidae)
Authors: Hwang Chung-Chi , Ger Mang-Jye , Wu Shu-Ping
Published: September 2024

Chirality has been recognised as a potentially important mechanism in the speciation of land snails because it leads to reproductive isolation between individuals with different coiling directions. The Satsuma batanica species group comprises the sinistral S. batanica and the dextral S. bacca, despite the observed sympatric distributions of the two chiral morphs. This study examines the population structure, phylogeographic history and taxonomy of the species group by analyzing mitochondrial COI gene sequences. A total of 127 haplotypes were identified from 367 individuals collected from 39 locations. The phylogenetic trees, constructed using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood methods, along with the median-joining network, identified 14 clades. The reconstructed ancestral states indicate that the most recent common ancestor of the S. batanica species group was sinistral. The frequent occurrence of the dextral morph, the shared haplotype, the sympatric distribution, and the co-occurrence of the two chiral morphs within the same phylogenetic clades recovered here do not support reproductive isolation and single-gene speciation based on chiral differences. All the names belonging to the S. batanica species group are considered synonyms because of their molecular and morphological similarities. This species is estimated to have originated approximately 615 thousand years ago from the northern margin of its current distribution. Two major genetic divergence stages occurred around 440 and 50–100 thousand years ago. The formation of ancient islands through orogenic activities is utilised to explain the phylogeographic history of the species.
A comprehensive analysis of coffee silverskin bioconversion by Hermetia illucens larvae
Authors: De Filippis F. , Sequino G. , Bruno D. , Bonelli M. , Nolasco A. , Esposito F. , Cirillo T. , Tettamanti G. , Ercolini D. , Casartelli M. , Caccia S.
Published: September 2024

Coffee silverskin, the outer layer of the green coffee bean, represents a major by-product of the coffee industry derived from the roasting process. In recent years the development of sustainable and circular strategies to manage and valorise organic wastes and by-products has become increasingly relevant and the potential of coffee silverskin in food industry, cosmetics, and bioconversion applications is gaining attention. In the present work we addressed the valorisation of coffee silverskin through insect bioconversion using the larvae of the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens, one of the most promising bioconversion agents among insects. These larvae grow on a huge variety of organic substrates due to their outstanding adaptability, that is conferred by the plasticity of the midgut physiology and associated microbiota. Our results demonstrate that black soldier fly larvae were able to grow and develop on coffee silverskin. The larvae reduced this by-product by 25% and a high protein insect biomass (i.e. 56 g per 100 g of dry matter) was obtained. Interestingly, 25% of the hemicellulose fraction of coffee silverskin was degraded by the larvae. In addition, the larval gut microbiota, which plays a key role in larvae digestion adaptability and bioconversion, was shaped by growing the larvae on coffee silverskin and bacterial taxa involved in complex polysaccharide degradation were selected. In conclusion, black soldier fly larvae may represent (1) a valuable tool for the development of new and sustainable strategies for coffee silverskin bioconversion and valorisation, and (2) an effective bioincubator for the selection and isolation of microbial strains with peculiar degrading capacity.
Differences between wild and cultivated Comadia redtenbacheri: an in vitro study
Authors: Bernardino-Nicanor A. , López Cortés M.G. , Juárez-Goiz J.M.S. , González-Cruz L.
Published: September 2024

The chinicuil (Comadia redtenbacheri (Hammershmidt)) is a seasonal insect whose main hosts are pulque agaves: Agave salmiana Otto ex salm, A. mapisaga Trel., A. atrovirens and plants of the complex A. applanata, which are damaged when the insect is collected; for this reason, the chinicuil has a greater impact on the environment. Several procedures have been developed for the cultivation of chinicuil under controlled conditions. However, to assess the differences between chinicuil cultivated under controlled conditions and wild chinicuil, a prior evaluation of the quality and performance of the insects is necessary. Therefore, this work investigated changes in nutrient composition, total phenolic content, in vitro protein digestibility, and antioxidant and antihypertensive effects. Wild chinicuil and chinicuil grown under controlled conditions (cultivated) were evaluated, and in vitro studies were conducted to assess their changes. A greater proportion of large chinicuil was obtained from cultivated chinicuil than from wild chinicuil. The size of the chinicuil and the drying process mainly influenced the protein and lipid concentrations. No differences in antioxidant activity were detected between cultivated and wild chinicuil or based on the drying method, but the size of the chinicuil influenced this activity. Moderate angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition was observed in the wild chinicuil, whereas greater ACE inhibition was achieved with the cultivated chinicuil; oven-dried chinicuil showed greater ACE inhibition than did freeze-dried chinicuil. In terms of protein digestibility, no significant differences were found between wild and cultivated chinicuil or between the different sizes of insects or drying methods. The cultivation of chinicuil gives the best results in terms of several characteristics. However, production under controlled conditions is not easy and requires further research on its development.
The Meloni-Casellati Institutional Reform
Authors: Improta Marco , Marzi Paolo
Published: September 2024

This study examines the Meloni-Casellati institutional reform in Italy. This reform constitutes a relevant political fact that could potentially affect the functioning of political institutions and the behavior of political actors in the country. The reform aims to strengthen the link between voter preferences and government formation and enhance government stability. The proposal, consisting of four substantive articles, abolishes life senators, modifies the Head of State’s dissolution powers, introduces the direct election of the prime minister and a peculiar confidence mechanism. This study explores the historical context and motivations behind the reform proposal, examining its potential impact on the country’s politics. Then, it describes the various steps of the reform drafting. Finally, it compares the Meloni-Casellati proposal with Israel’s 1992–2001 experiment concerning the direct election of the prime minister, scrutinizing similarities and differences. If approved, the reform will introduce a new, unprecedented government system in Italy, that has never been adopted elsewhere. As such, this topic poses relevant theoretical challenges for political science research, eliciting scholarly attention about Italian politics, government forms, institutional design, and ruling and opposition parties behavior.
Palaeoenvironmental analysis of the Langshan Formation in the Xiongba area
Authors: XU YI-WEI , LAI WEN , HU XIU-MIAN
Published: September 2024

The mid-Cretaceous Langshan Formation is a massive limestone unit, outcropping typically in the northern Lhasa block. A Xiongba section, measured near the type section of the Langshan Formation, is here described. The succession consists of orbitolinids limestone, where eight microfacies have been recognized. The lower part of the Langshan Formation consists of discoidal orbitolinids with other heterotrophic associations, including echinoderms, sponge spicules, and bivalves. In contrast, the upper part of the Langshan Formation features conical orbitolinids with an abundance of green algae and small benthic foraminifers. We interpret the morphological changes in orbitolinids as being influenced by bathymetry. Consequently, the microfacies variations in the Langshan Formation in the Xiongba section represent a shallowing upward sequence.
Influence of climate and marine transgression on Mesozoic–Cenozoic diagenesis of clastic rocks in the Tabei Uplift, Tarim Basin, China
Authors: ZHANG SHI-JIE , ZHAO YONG-QIANG , CHEN YUAN-ZHUANG , ZHANG BIN , XU YI-WEI , MA HONG-QIANG , XIA YONG-TAO , CAO JIA-YUAN , YU YU-YANG , HAN LI-QIN
Published: September 2024

The Mesozoic–Cenozoic clastic rocks in the Tabei Uplift form one of the most hydrocarbon-rich zones in the Tarim Basin of China. Understanding how diagenesis has affected the petrophysical properties of the sandstone is crucial for developing regional exploration strategies. Although most studies have investigated the physical conditions during sedimentation and chemical processes during diagenesis, the hydrochemical environment during sedimentation and subsequent diagenesis has received little attention. This study employed petrographic observations, paleo-geothermal reconstructions, and paleoenvironmental analysis to constrain the regional climatic conditions, hydrochemical environment of deposition, and diagenetic features of clastic rocks in the Tabei Uplift. The sandstone at depths of 3500–6000 m is located mainly in the A phase of the middle diagenetic stage, and exhibits three types of diagenesis. Triassic–Jurassic sandstones are dominated by silica, kaolinite, and chlorite cements, Cretaceous sandstones by mainly carbonate cements, and Paleogene sandstones by carbonate and evaporite cements. These diagenetic stages correspond to paleoclimatic changes during the earliest Late Jurassic and the maximum marine transgressions of the Proto-Tethys during the Paleogene, thereby highlighting the influence of climatic change and transgressions on the water conditions during deposition and the type of diagenesis.
Taxonomic revision of the South American subgenus Augochloropsis (Glyptobasia) (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Halictinae)
Authors: CELIS CINDY JULIETH , MELO GABRIEL A. R.
Published: September 2024

Augochloropsis (Glyptobasia) Moure, a small Neotropical subgenus, is revised, with the description of a new species, Augochloropsis aenea sp. nov., from Puno, southern Peru. Augochloropsis (Glyptobasia) comprised the two nominal species, A. bertonii (Schrottky) with a bluish-violet body coloration and A. chloera (Moure) with a bright green body coloration, both species have coarse integumental punctures and an unusual propodeal structure. We interpret these striking color differences, as a case of color polymorphism within a single species. Therefore, Moure’s taxon is placed as a junior synonym of A. bertonii. An identification key for the species and a distribution map are also provided.
A new species of genus Oedaspis Loew and new distribution records of Acidiostigma Hendel & Goniurellia Hendel from India (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: SINGH MANEESH PAL , SNEHA SHARMA , SHARMA ISHA , GUPTA DIVENDER , HANCOCK DAVID LAWRENCE , PRABHAKAR CHANDRA SHEKHAR
Published: September 2024

A new species of genus Oedaspis Loew, Oedaspis nauniensis Maneesh & Hancock, sp. nov., is described from Himachal Pradesh, India and Oedaspis Loew, Acidiostigma bomiense Wang and Goniurellia lacerata (Becker) are newly recorded from India. Keys to Asian species of Oedaspis and Indian species of Acidiostigma Hendel and Goniurellia Hendel are included.
Analyzing Sunflower Trait Patterns Using MANOVA, PCA, and Correlation Across Seasons and Locations
Authors: Aboye Birhanu , Tesema Tilahun
Published: September 2024

Sunflower is an important agricultural crop valued for its high oil yield, versatility in culinary and industrial applications and adaptability to diverse environments. Eight advanced sunflower genotypes were tested in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at six locations over the 2018 and 2019 seasons. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of environmental and genotypic variations using MANOVA, PCA, and correlation analysis to discover trait patterns and relationships. The MANOVA results revealed highly significant effects of genotype, environment, and their interaction on the 11 dependent variables (p < 0.001). The four principal components account for 74.23% of the total variation, with key traits such as seed yield per hectare, oil yield per hectare, days to maturity, plant height, and grain filling period significantly contributing to the overall variability. Oil yield per hectare and seed yield per hectare exhibited a very strong association (0.974). Days to maturity (DM) and grain filling period (GFP) showed a strong correlation (0.666), suggesting that longer grain filling periods may enhance both maturity and yield. Additionally, plant height (PH) and seed yield per hectare (YELDK) had a moderate correlation (0.491). Breeding programs should target traits with strong correlations to boost sunflower productivity and adaptability. Future research should prioritize selecting genotypes that perform well across diverse environments, focusing on seed yield, oil yield, and traits such as maturity and grain filling period. Additionally, breeding should incorporate disease resistance and optimize days to flowering to develop more robust and productive sunflower varieties.
Mind Mapping: An Effective Technique for EFL Students’ Language Skills Improvement
Authors: Berta Getaneh , Mulat Aster
Published: September 2024

To be successful in language learning and teaching as well as to advance language skills, one needs to utilize valuable and impactful language learning and teaching strategies. Language experts and pedagogues suggest variety of strategies which are essential for language skills improvement; one of these strategies is mind mapping. Since mind mapping activates both hemis of brain, it helps EFL learners to recall what they have learned. In addition, it can be used as an alternative medium for EFL teachers to deliver language contents. It plays greater role as well for the development of language skills. However, EFL students and teachers are not seen employing it during language classes. Hence, the objective of this article was to review and summarize the role of mind mapping so as to improve English language skills, particularly vocabulary, grammar and speaking skills. Secondary data from 20 published articles on the role of mind mapping on EFL students’ language skill improvement were examined to get a better understanding on the issue. Narrative review was carried out. As the findings of the published articles indicated, mind mapping ignited students’ language learning which consequently led for the enhancement of their language skills. Therefore, it is recommended for EFL students and EFL teachers to use mind mapping while learning and teaching EFL.
Nutritional Profile Analysis of Red Bean Tempeh Fermented Using Rhizopus Oligosporus at Different Time
Authors: Maryam Siti , Sastrawidana I Dewa , Sudiana I Ketut , Sukarta I Nyoman
Published: September 2024

Investigation of non-soybean legumes as raw material for making tempeh is very important to be carried out continuously considering soybean production tends to decline from year to year. This study aims to analyse the potential of red bean seeds as raw material for tempeh and changes in their nutritional profile when fermented at different fermentation times. The red beans were soaked in water overnight at room temperature and then boiled for 20 minutes. After boiling, the red beans were drained and then fermented for 36, 48, and 60 hours using a suspension of Rhizopus oligosporus with a weight of 2 g for each 1000 g of red beans. Red bean tempeh was analysed for quality using test parameters including physical appearance (color, texture, and aroma) and nutritional profile (calorie value, ash, water, crude fiber, fat, protein, and carbohydrate content). The physical appearance and nutritional profile of red bean tempeh were compared with those of soybean tempeh, while the quality of tempeh was compared with Indonesian national standards for tempeh. The results showed that the length of fermentation time significantly affected the nutritional profile of tempeh. Red bean tempeh fermented for 48 hours had a nutritional profile including energy, water, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate, and crude fiber content of 201.59 kcal/100 g tempeh, 61.97%, 1.18%, 16.19%, 10.98%, 8.29%, and 1.13%, respectively. The physical appearance and nutritional profile of red bean tempeh have met the tempeh quality requirements issued by the Indonesian national standard for tempeh. Therefore, red bean seed appears to be as good as raw materials for tempeh production.
Detection of Nickel Atoms Released from Electrodes in Spark Discharges Using Laser-Induced Fluorescence
Authors: Zhang Kailun , Bi Ruike , Tidholm Johan , Ängeby Jakob , Richter Mattias , Ehn Andreas
Published: September 2024

The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the effort of carbon neutrality require the improvement of spark-ignition engines in terms of efficiency and capability to operate on renewable fuels. The electrode wear of spark plugs, used for ignition of novel fuels and lean mixtures, emerges as a significant challenge in this transition. Understanding the physical mechanism and influence of spark operation parameters of the wear process is thus important. Compared to the conventional methodology of performing long-term wear tests, laser-based optical diagnostics methods are capable of assessing electrode wear during one single or a few spark discharges. In this work, the necessary initial steps required for performing optical investigations using laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) are presented. Several excitation pathways of nickel atoms were investigated, and 336.96 nm was identified as the optimal one. This excitation approach yielded emissions between 338.75 and 353.58 nm, effectively avoiding the major interference from N2 plasma emission in spark discharges. Additionally, a linear relationship in fluorescence signal intensity with excitation energy up to 400 µJ was observed. These findings indicate the potential of LIF for in situ diagnostics of electrode wear, contributing to engine development in both efficiency and compatibility with sustainable fuels.
Performance of Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) in Detection of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM), in Young Infants Aged 1 to 6 Months
Authors: Goel Tanya , Singh Mukesh Vir , Maurya Manisha , Mishra Nandita , Siddiqui Shahid Akhtar , Singh Richa
Published: September 2024

Infants are more vulnerable to malnutrition as compared with older children. Prevalence of severe wasting in Indian infants under 6 months of age (U6M) is 14.8% (National Family Health Survey 4, 2015-2016). Weight for length z-score (WLZ) and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) are 2 anthropometric parameters for detecting severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in children aged 6 months to 5 years. But in infants U6M, currently no accepted MUAC criteria are present for SAM. Calculating WLZ is practically difficult and cumbersome as compared with measuring MUAC. We tried to find out whether MUAC can be used in detecting SAM in infants aged 1 to 6 months also. The area under ROC curve was computed to evaluate the accuracy of MUAC in detecting SAM (taking WLZ as reference test). Level of accuracy was found out to be “good.” Optimal MUAC cut-off with best diagnostic accuracy was identified as ≤11.5 cm, using the highest Youden index of 0.55.
Wooden Interiors Improve Heart Rate Variability-Derived Psychophysiological Well-Being: An Acute Cross-Over Study
Authors: Kumpulainen Susanne , Kilpiäinen Matti , Koski Juho , Pesola Arto J.
Published: September 2024

Mental health is a significant public concern. Given that individuals spend extended periods indoors, understanding the psychophysiological health effects of indoor materials on well-being is crucial. This study compared the effects of wooden and resin plaster rooms on psychophysiological well-being. Well-being was assessed using heart rate variability measurements and an affective well-being questionnaire. Subjective perceptions were also evaluated using a semantic differential questionnaire. The results indicated higher heart rate variability in the wooden room compared to the reference room. Participants breathed about one breath per minute more slowly in the wooden room, with a negative correlation between heart rate variability and respiratory rate. Positive affect was elevated, and negative affect was reduced in the wooden room, which was also perceived more favorably in sensory evaluations. The findings suggest that wooden interiors are preferred over artificial materials, enhancing both physiological and psychological well-being.
Expanding community-academic collaborations to improve COVID-19 vaccination: A rural-focused COVID-19 vaccination campaign
Authors: Luke Elizabeth , Allis Nicholas ,   Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization,   Jefferson County Public Health Service,   Lewis County Health System,   North Country Initiative, Cameron Daniel , Caldwell Leah , Stewart Telisa
Published: September 2024

Background:

Rural populations in the USA demonstrate a high degree of vaccine hesitancy, particularly surrounding COVID-19 vaccines.

Objectives:

Following the successful implementation of a COVID-19 vaccination campaign with a rural-based health system in New York state, the goal of this project was to develop a large community–academic partnership with multiple rural-based community organisations to implement an additional COVID-19 vaccination campaign tailored to rural audiences.

Methods:

Campaign materials were created and refined with several collaborators across multiple rural-based hospitals, health centres and community organisations. Campaign effectiveness was examined through an analysis of New York state vaccination data.

Lessons learned:

This project shows that larger community–academic partnerships involving multiple organisations can be achieved and utilised to address complex public health issues such as vaccine hesitancy.

Conclusions:

Larger and longer-term community–academic partnerships can be leveraged to combat a wide range of public health issues and enable a personalised focus on specific communities.
Terrorism Works, for its Supporters
Authors: Coe Andrew J. , Schram Peter , Yoo Heesun
Published: September 2024

Empirical studies have shown that terrorists’ policy goals are rarely achieved, leading some to conclude that terrorism doesn’t work. We theorize that terrorism can work, but for its supporters rather than for the terrorists themselves. Because supporters are willing to contribute resources to a terrorist organization, thereby increasing the organization’s ability to launch attacks, this can coerce the targeted government to revise its policies in accordance with the supporters’ preferences. Targeted governments may respond with concessions in order to erode support and thereby render the terrorists easier to defeat. Support can be rational even when supporters’ ideal policies are closer to those of the government than to those of the terrorists. We examine Hamas and the Provisional IRA, generally regarded as failures. We show that targeted governments sometimes made concessions that placated supporters but not the terrorists, and that this was followed by reduced support for and occurrence of violence.
Psychology of Personal Political Engagement in Russia: Unpacking Perceived Community Culture, Pluralistic Ignorance, and System Justification
Authors: Gallyamova Albina , Miller Dale T.
Published: September 2024

This study explores the relationship between Russian citizens’ self-reported political engagement and their system justification beliefs, perceptions of the system justification beliefs of other citizens, and perceptions of their community culture. We assessed personal political engagement through self-reported past behavior of 1,143 participants. The results revealed a negative relationship between individual personal system justification scores and political engagement. However, the analyses suggested that this relationship emerged because of pluralistic ignorance among the citizenry—their tendency to assume that others hold stronger system justification beliefs than they do. This possibility seemed especially likely among those who perceived themselves to inhabit vertical collectivist communities. These results suggest that beliefs about the system justification beliefs of others ( second-order beliefs) may shape personal system justification beliefs ( first-order beliefs). More generally, the findings emphasize the substantial role of cultural factors in political engagement in Russia.
Large Group Performance Evaluation in the United States
Authors: Tucker Olivia Gail , Adams Kari , Nussbaum Kelsey
Published: September 2024

Adjudicated performances have been a component of music education for more than a century, and the policies and structures associated with these events intersect with curriculum, instruction, and teacher evaluation. The purpose of this study was to describe state-organized large group performance evaluation (LGPE) practices for high school bands, choirs, and orchestras across the United States. We asked the following research questions: (a) How prevalent are state-organized LGPEs in the United States? (b) What organizations administer them? (c) How common are sight-reading requirements, use of prescribed music lists, and piece difficulty rules in the structures of state-organized LGPEs? and (d) How common are adjudicator training, comments-only options, and score availability at state-organized LGPEs? We found that most states had state-organized processes, and most were administered by music education organizations whose leadership was comprised of practicing and retired teachers. Choral educators generally had more flexibility than band and orchestra teachers in terms of prescribed music lists and repertoire difficulty. Adjudication training practices were inconsistent across states and ensemble types. The pervasive nature of LGPE participation in the ensemble setting has implications for educators’ ability to align with the National Association for Music Education’s curriculum standards and equity-based strategic plan.
“The Soul Recognizes Itself in Somebody Else”: The Healing Value of Forgiveness among Formerly Incarcerated People in the Profession Practice of Peer-Support
Authors: Elisha Ety , Shachaf-Friedman Esthi
Published: September 2024

The present study focuses on perceptions of forgiveness among formerly incarcerated people engaged in peer-support roles, based on their lived experience and referred to as wounded healers. Participants were 26 men and women with a history of addiction, trauma, and incarceration who are employed in formal peer-support positions and in the community. The participants reported achieving personal and social forgiveness through their peer work, expressing their social acceptance which is relevant to their recovery. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed from the perspective of convict therapy and Enright's forgiveness therapy.
Mindfulness and Procrastination Among University EFL Learners: The Role of Attention Control and Self-Regulated Learning
Authors: Taghavi-Nejad Fatemeh Sadat , Fallah Nasser , Lotfi Gaskaree Behruz
Published: September 2024

The present study aimed to investigate the interconnections among mindfulness, self-regulated learning (SRL), attention control, and procrastination among English as a foreign language (EFL) learner in Iran. Additionally, the mediating influence of SRL and attention control on mindfulness-procrastination link were tested. For this purpose, 272 university EFL students were conveniently selected and administered self-report questionnaires. Structural equation modeling and mediation analyses were employed. The results indicated that greater levels of SRL and attention control were related to lower levels of procrastination. Further, mindfulness directly predicted SRL and attention control. The findings also showed that although mindfulness did not directly account for procrastination, it could indirectly impact procrastination via the mediation of SRL and attention control. The findings were discussed, and implications and suggestions for future research were presented.
Corporations and cities under distress: Organised business and ‘emergency’ governance in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa
Authors: Pieterse Marius , Spies Amanda
Published: September 2024

This article considers private sector embroilment in urban governance under disaster/crisis conditions in cities of the developing world, paying particular attention to the role of law in structuring urban governance regimes. Through a case study detailing the changing relationship dynamics between organised business and the South African metropolitan municipality of Nelson Mandela Bay during a confluence of the Covid-19 pandemic and a debilitating drought, the article shows that crisis conditions can induce moments of civic solidarity between urban local governments and their non-state stakeholders, which might be leveraged to produce progressive ‘everyday’ urban governance arrangements. However, the incomplete consolidation of such an arrangement in Nelson Mandela Bay leads the article to consider the adequacy of the South African legal framework for urban governance, thereby highlighting how urban law may enable, stabilise and ensure accountability for ‘emergency’ urban governance.
Reconsidering the Task, Methods, and Aims of Reading the Gospels in the Present Myanmar Context
Authors: Seng Ja Layang
Published: September 2024

The confessional doctrine of the exalted post-Easter Jesus, divine saviour, planted by nineteenth-century missionaries, has a long tradition in Myanmar churches. In order to equip these churches for the current Myanmar context, it is time to decolonize the Western heritage of confessional reading of the New Testament. It is essential to reread the Jesus tradition recorded in the Gospels in the specific contexts of then and now. Thus, this paper argues that in the current context of the critical situation in Myanmar, the exalted Christian saviour does not save the suffering citizens from life-threatening war or injustice, nor churches from being destroyed by abusive authority. This exalted heavenly Christ does not liberate the suffering people from the physical, spiritual, and mental sufferings inflicted on them. Nor does he liberate them from the homelessness or IDP camps or from their status as outcasts. What is needed instead is a contextual reading of the life of Jesus, within the Jewish context of second temple Judaism. This theopolitical Jesus encourages Myanmar Christians and the citizens of Myanmar; he becomes a sympathetic figure sharing comparable troubles and an example of how to stand up for the people who suffer injustice and to engage in the work of restoration.
The evidential BIN in the children’s environment of engagement: Reporting, evaluating, and engaging knowledge in Yucatec Maya
Authors: Dzidz Yam Edber Enrique , Pfeiler Barbara Blaha
Published: September 2024

This article explores the role of the reportative BIN in Yucatec Maya language acquisition and socialization among children aged 4 years and above, focusing on their interactions during pretend play. Building upon prior research on caregivers’ strategic use of BIN, the study aims to elucidate the nuanced meanings and functions of the reportative in children’s language. Through a theoretical framework rooted in the theory of engagement, the article posits that BIN serves not only as a linguistic form but also as an interactive device conveying contextual and imaginative speech. Divided into six sections, the article progresses from theoretical underpinnings to interpreting children’s language in pretend play. By analyzing spontaneous speech data, the study uncovers novel insights into the dynamic nature of reportatives, emphasizing the creative ways children employ BIN to engage in games. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of reportatives and underscore the dynamic nature of children’s language usage and development.
Navigating the Social Environment: Linking Motivations, Impressions, and Behaviors Via a Sampling Approach to Trustworthiness
Authors: Biella Marco , Hütter Mandy
Published: September 2024

Our understanding of impression formation comes from experiments constraining participants’ control over information sampling. This limits our understanding of how people sample information when forming impressions as well as the effects of self-generated samples on impressions. Our paradigm allows participants to actively collect information samples. This work investigates how people explore the social environment and how sampled information informs resulting impressions. Four experiments tested theoretically-driven predictions regarding information sampling patterns under interested and disinterested information search. Under interested search, participants truncated the sampling of social targets showing early untrustworthy behavior. Under disinterested search, participants sampled extensively and systematically, avoiding small-sample biases. The sampled information, once obtained, accurately determines final impressions. Moreover, we documented a direct link between sampled information and subsequent behaviors (partner selection in trust games, trustworthiness expectations). By investigating sampling-based trustworthiness impressions, the present research informs the origins of trustworthiness and sampling accounts of judgment and decision-making.
Understanding the Relationships Between Divorce and Work: A Conceptual Framework and Research Agenda
Authors: Kelemen Thomas K. , Matthews Michael J. , Bolino Mark C. , Gabriel Allison S. , Ganster Mahira L.
Published: September 2024

Despite the personal, financial, and social implications of divorce for employees, research on the intersection of divorce and work has been mainly conducted across disparate literatures, with limited attention paid within the organizational sciences. In this review, we bring together research on employee divorce across multiple disciplines, including sociology, public health, legal studies, economics, family studies, and psychology. We identify three major areas of prior research that can be applied to our understanding of divorce within organizational contexts: interrole interdependencies, economic dependency, and social dynamics. We also highlight overarching themes that emerge from prior research on divorce and work. Building on our review, we then provide recommendations about how to theoretically and empirically advance research on divorce and work. Finally, we discuss the practical implications of our review.