bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of expressions of fear induced by background music on reading comprehension
Authors: Wong Agnes S.K. , Moreno Matthew , Burns Samantha , Woodruff Earl
Published: January 2023

Background

Research has suggested that background music can have a positive or negative effect that can influence the affective state of individuals. Although research has demonstrated that fear negatively influences our cognitive performance, there is a research gap in understanding the combined effects of different background music tempo and fear in influencing reading comprehension performance.

Methods

Data were collected from 70 participants enrolled at a public university in Canada. Participants were required to listen to background music of varying speeds with three conditions (no music, slow music and fast music). We adopted a cross‐sectional multi‐level modelling approach for the main analyses, and further analyses using t‐test and ANOVA.

Results

Results indicated that expression of fear was not a significant predictor of participants' reading comprehension performance (Model 1). However, when music condition was added (Model 2) in addition to expression of fear, a significant relationship between reading comprehension performance and music condition was found, showing better reading comprehension performance in the slow music condition than in the no music condition. Furthermore, there was a significant interaction effect between music condition and expression of fear on reading comprehension performance (Model 3). Importantly, not all individuals were affected by the music to the same extent, with the possibility that baseline level of fear being the key issue in influencing comprehension performance.

Conclusions

Considering both expression of fear and music condition is required to understand the combined effects on cognitive performance. Expression of fear during cognitive tasks such as reading could be an essential signal that interventions should be applied. Such strategies may be especially beneficial for task performers with higher baseline levels of fear and possibly provide us with insights for best practice and research implications in the field of reading comprehension among individuals with special needs.
Elite mobility and continuity during a regime change
Authors: Matsumoto Tomoko , Okazaki Tetsuji
Published: January 2023

How does a regime change influence elite mobility? By collecting data on elites after the Meiji Restoration in Japan in 1868, through which Japan transitioned from a feudal regime to a modern regime, we provide new evidence that the impact of the regime change on elite mobility varies across the stages of the regime change. We analyze the impact of the regime change from two aspects: (1) the composition of elites or elite membership and (2) the internal hierarchy within them. The regime change opened an opportunity for commoners to join the elite group. After the Meiji Restoration, the share of elites whose fathers were commoners in the former regime increased, as did the influence of meritocracy on elite ranks. However, once the new regime was established, the elite hierarchy started to reflect the social stratum of the former regime and the influence of meritocracy declined.
Application of cellulose‐ and chitosan‐based edible coatings for quality and safety of deep‐fried foods
Authors: Wang Zun , Ng Ken , Warner Robyn Dorothy , Stockmann Regine , Fang Zhongxiang
Published: January 2023

Excessive oil uptake and formation of carcinogens, such as acrylamide (AA), heterocyclic amines (HCAs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), during deep‐frying are a potential threat for food quality and safety. Cellulose‐ and chitosan‐based edible coatings have been widely applied to deep‐fried foods for reduction of oil uptake because of their barrier property to limit oil ingress, and their apparent inhibition of AA formation. Cellulose‐ and chitosan‐based edible coatings have low negative impacts on sensory attributes of fried foods and are low cost, nontoxic, and nonallergenic. They also show great potential for reducing HCAs and PAHs in fried foods. The incorporation of nanoparticles improves mechanical and barrier properties of cellulose and chitosan coatings, which may also contribute to reducing carcinogens derived from deep‐frying. Considering the potential for positive health outcomes, cellulose‐ and chitosan‐based edible coatings could be a valuable method for the food industry to improve the quality and safety of deep‐fried foods.
Impact of time of intensive care unit transfer and outcomes in patients with septic shock: An observational study
Authors: Buhariwalla Karishma , Keijzers Gerben , Macdonald Stephen , Finnis Mark , Peake Sandra , Gillett Mark , Delaney Anthony ,   the ARISE Investigators
Published: January 2023

Objective

To evaluate the association between time from ED presentation to intensive care unit (ICU) transfer on mortality in patients presenting with septic shock.

Methods

Adult patients with suspected septic shock enrolled in the Australasian Resuscitation in Sepsis Evaluation trial were included. The primary outcome of this post‐hoc analysis was 90‐day mortality. ED‐to‐ICU time was analysed as both a continuous variable and a binary variable (≤vs>4 h). Analysis incorporated mixed effects regression, with ICU site as a random effect, time‐to‐event analysis and competing risks regression; all with and without inverse probability of treatment weighting to account for confounding baseline covariates.

Results

Data from 1301 patients were included. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) ED‐to‐ICU time was 4.3 (3.1, 6.3) hours, with 588 patients (45%) transferred within 4 h. The ≤4‐h group were younger, 64 (51, 74)versus67 (52, 76) years (P = 0.04), with higher APACHE III scores, 50 (37, 65)versus47 (35, 62) (P = 0.002), and higher unadjusted 90‐day mortality, odds ratio (OR) 1.53 (95% confidence interval 1.15, 2.03),P = 0.01. After adjustment for pre‐specified confounders, the 90‐day mortality OR was 1.09 (0.83, 1.44),P = 0.52. Adjusted for death as a competing event and illness severity, hospital length of stay was similar between groups, whereas ICU duration remained longer for the ≤4‐h group.

Conclusion

In patients presenting to the ED with septic shock, ED‐to‐ICU time less than 4 h was not associated with altered 90‐day mortality, although this should be interpreted with caution due to study limitations.
Analysis of the water state and microfractal dimension of tilapia fillets during freezing and thawing
Authors: Luo Kaixuan , Feng Aiguo , Lin Xiangdong , Fu Renhao , Wei Heyun
Published: January 2023

To study the effects of freezing and thawing times and freezing temperatures on the water state and microstructure of tilapia fillets, experiments on tilapia fillets were carried out at –4 and –18°C with one to four freezing and thawing cycles (FTCs). Low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR) and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging were used to observe the water state after different treatments, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and frozen sections were used to observe the microstructure changes. Fractal dimension (FD) was used to quantitatively characterize the microstructure of the fish tissue, and the correlation between FD and fish fillet quality parameters was studied by principal component analysis (PCA). The findings showed that with the increase of FTCs, the thawing loss increased, and the water holding capacity (WHC) fell. FTCs cause a decrease in immobilized water and an increase in free water in the fillet. This indicates the migration of immobilized water to free water. SEM and frozen slice images showed that the growth of ice crystals led to the destruction of myogenic fibers. A decrease in freezing temperature inhibited ice crystal growth. The FD value dropped in accordance with an increase in FTCs. PCA demonstrated that the WHC, NMR data, and FD value had a strong correlation with the quality changes in the tilapia fillets. Therefore, FD and water state can reflect the quality characteristics of tilapia fillets.

Practical Application

The water migration in tilapia fillets is detected with LF‐NMR, and the microscopic image may be quantified using the FD value. Both approaches can offer fresh perspectives on how to assess the quality of tilapia fillets and reflect changes in their quality.
Ultrasound characterization of mammary gland development in heifer calves fed at two different levels until weaning
Authors: Seibt Katharina Diana , Scheu Theresa , Koch Christian , Ghaffari Morteza Hosseini , Sauerwein Helga
Published: January 2023

Ultrasound technologies allow for a non‐invasive assessment of mammary gland (MG) development, the differentiation between the tissue types of the MG, and the evaluation of changes in its composition. This study aimed to work out a detailed description of the different stages of MG development that are visually discernible by ultrasonography for providing a template to classify the different structures. With this basis, the qualitative categorization of the developmental stage, as well as further quantitative assessments via pixel densities in the structures of interest, should be facilitated. Ultrasonic images were acquired from all four quarters of 37 German Holstein heifer calves fed either at a high feeding level of milk replacer (MR; 14% solids) at 10 L/day (1.4 kg MR/day; HI, n = 18) or at a restrictive low level of 5.7 L/day (0.8 kg MR/day; RES, n = 19) until linear weaning from week 13 to 14 of life. Ultrasound MG scans were performed first in week 3 of life, fortnightly from week 8–16, and in week 20 of life, in standing position, of each quarter, using a B‐mode ultrasound device equipped with a linear probe (18 MHz). The developmental stages of the mammary gland parenchyma (PAR), visible in ultrasound images, obtained over 20 weeks of life, were categorized, described, and drawn by hand. On this basis, a template for classifying the visible categories of mammary PAR development and its surrounding tissue (SURR), and for measuring their pixel brightness was created thus providing an ultrasonographic atlas of the developing bovine MG, describing 11 categories. The ultrasound images were further classified by PAR structure, and pixel brightness was measured in PAR and SURR by using ImageJ Fiji. The difference in pixel brightness between PAR and SURR, the delta (Δ) pixel value was calculated. With increasing age, higher atlas categories of PAR developmental stages were shown. Pixel values, i.e. the brightness of PAR, its SURR, and Δ pixel value changed with age but were neither affected by the feeding group nor by a group × time interaction. With progressing PAR development, its pixel brightness increased from week 10 to 20 of life, i.e., the PAR became more hyperechoic since it spread and grew into its SURR. The atlas can serve as a template for the categorization and qualitative assessment of MG structures and for the quantitative assessment of PAR's development by measuring pixel brightness. With our study, we could show the structural development in PAR as well as in SURR in MG simultaneously in early life and confirm the spreading of PAR into its SURR by ultrasound scanning.
A simple clinical decision rule may help to rule out severe bacterial infection and spare antibiotics in febrile young children
Authors: Feildel‐Fournial Cécile , Danjou Lou , Hubert‐Dibon Gaëlle , Vrignaud Bénédicte , Masson Damien , Launay Elise , Guen Christèle Gras‐Le
Published: January 2023

Aim

To assess the performance of a new clinical decision rule (CDR) to identify patients at a low risk of invasive bacterial infection (IBI) among febrile children and its theoretical impact on antibiotic use.

Methods

Prospective study including consecutive children <5 years of age who presented in one French paediatric emergency department with fever without source between January and December 2016. With the collected data, we constructed a CDR based on a sequential approach based on age, clinical toxic signs, urinalysis and procalcitonin level. We evaluated its diagnostic performances to identify IBI and its potential impact on antibiotic use.

Results

Among the 1061 children (IBI 11/1061, 1.0%), 693 (65.3%) were classified at low or intermediate risk of IBI, with an IBI prevalence of 0%. The sensitivity and specificity of the CDR to predict IBI were 100% and 73.9%. Negative and positive predictive value were 100% and 3.9%, respectively. Using this new CDR, the current antibiotics exposure would theoretically be reduced from 33.6% to 24.1%.

Conclusion

The promising interest of this clinical decision rule, using simple and accessible biological and clinical tools, needs to be confirm with an external validation study, which will allow its use in clinical practice.
Diversity of mitochondrial D‐loop haplotypes from ancient Thracian horses in Bulgaria
Authors: Nishita Yoshinori , Amaike Yosuke , Spassov Nikolai , Hristova Latinka , Kostov Dimitar , Vladova Diyana , Peeva Stanislava , Raichev Evgeniy , Vlaeva Radka , Masuda Ryuichi
Published: January 2023

The domestication of the horse began possibly more than 5000 years ago in the western part of the Eurasian steppe, and according to the leading hypothesis, horses first spread from the Steppe toward the region of the Thracian culture, starting in the second half of the 2nd millennium BCE and flourished from the fifth to first centuries BCE, mainly located in present‐day Bulgaria. We analyzed 17 horse bone remains excavated from Thracian archaeological sites (fourth to first centuries BCE) in Bulgaria and successfully identified 17 sequences representing 14 different haplotypes of the mitochondrial D‐loop. Compared with the mtDNA haplotypes of modern horses around the world, ancient Thracian horses in Bulgaria are thought to be more closely related to modern horses of Southern Europe and less related to those of Central Asia. In addition, the haplotypes we obtained represented 11 previously reported modern horse mtDNA haplogroups: A, B, D, E, G, H, I, L, N, P, and Q. All the haplogroups contain modern and regionally predominant haplotypes occurring in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Our results indicate that Thracian horses in Bulgaria have had relatively high genetic diversity and are closely related to modern horse breeds.
Theoretical approaches for understanding the self‐organized formation of the Golgi apparatus
Authors: Tachikawa Masashi
Published: January 2023

Eukaryotic cells fold their membranes into highly organized structures called membrane‐bound organelles. Organelles display characteristic structures and perform specialized functions related to their structures. Focusing on the Golgi apparatus, we provide an overview of recent theoretical studies to explain the mechanism of the architecture of the Golgi apparatus. These studies are classified into two categories: those that use equilibrium models to describe the robust Golgi morphology and those that use non‐equilibrium models to explain the stationarity of the Golgi structures and the constant streaming of membrane traffic. A combinational model of both categories was used for computational reconstruction of the de novo Golgi formation process, which might provide an insight into the integrated understanding of the Golgi structure.
Retinal layer thickness predicts disability accumulation in early relapsing multiple sclerosis
Authors: Bsteh Gabriel , Hegen Harald , Altmann Patrick , Auer Michael , Berek Klaus , Di Pauli Franziska , Haider Lukas , Kornek Barbara , Krajnc Nik , Leutmezer Fritz , Macher Stefan , Rommer Paulus , Walchhofer Lisa‐Maria , Zebenholzer Karin , Zulehner Gudrun , Deisenhammer Florian , Pemp Berthold , Berger Thomas
Published: January 2023

Background and purpose

This study was undertaken to investigate baseline peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) and macular ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness for prediction of disability accumulation in early relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS).

Methods

From a prospective observational study, we included patients with newly diagnosed RMS and obtained spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography scan within 90 days after RMS diagnosis. Impact of pRNFL and GCIPL thickness for prediction of disability accumulation (confirmed Expanded Disability Status Scale [EDSS] score ≥ 3.0) was tested by multivariate (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] with 95% confidence interval [CI]) Cox regression models.

Results

We analyzed 231 MS patients (mean age = 30.3 years, SD = 8.1, 74% female) during a median observation period of 61 months (range = 12–93). Mean pRNFL thickness was 92.6 μm (SD = 12.1), and mean GCIPL thickness was 81.4 μm (SD = 11.8). EDSS ≥ 3 was reached by 28 patients (12.1%) after a median 49 months (range = 9–92). EDSS ≥ 3 was predicted with GCIPL < 77 μm (HR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.6–4.2, p < 0.001) and pRNFL thickness ≤ 88 μm (HR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.4–3.3, p < 0.001). Higher age (HR = 1.4 per 10 years, p < 0.001), incomplete remission of first clinical attack (HR = 2.2, p < 0.001), ≥10 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) lesions (HR = 2.0, p < 0.001), and infratentorial MRI lesions (HR = 1.9, p < 0.001) were associated with increased risk of disability accumulation, whereas highly effective disease‐modifying treatment was protective (HR = 0.6, p < 0.001). Type of first clinical attack and presence of oligoclonal bands were not significantly associated.

Conclusions

Retinal layer thickness (GCIPL more than pRNFL) is a useful predictor of future disability accumulation in RMS, independently adding to established markers.
Temporal non‐independence of foraging dive and surface duration sequences in the European shag Gulosus aristotelis
Authors: Carlsen A. A. , Lorentsen S. H. , Mattisson J. , Wright J.
Published: January 2023

Studies of foraging behaviour and respiratory physiology in breath‐holding divers often assume that each dive cycle (dive plus surface duration) is physiologically and ecologically independent within a series (or “bout”) of sequential dives. We tested this assumption using time depth recorders and GPS data for more than 42,000 dives in 1289 bouts by 39 pairs of male and female European shags (Gulosus aristotelis) provisioning nestlings. We found distinct patterns of temporal autocorrelation over several dives within bouts, but this was driven mainly by consecutive dives of the same type, that is, runs of V‐shaped (presumably prey searching) versus U‐shaped (presumably active hunting) dives. We found no evidence of cumulative physiological effects (i.e. fatigue and/or lowered body temperature) across dives within a bout. However, within‐individual variation in dive behaviour revealed complex interactions. Longer bouts were associated with more V‐shaped dives, including more and longer runs of V‐shaped dives. Meanwhile, more U‐shaped dives and longer runs of U‐shaped dives acted as limiting factors to bout lengths, with longer bouts being associated with more U‐shaped dives only later in the bout. Interactions between bout length and body mass, and between dive order within the bout and body mass, also suggested various size‐specific patterns in the temporal distribution of U‐shaped dives. Long bouts and bouts ending in longer runs of V‐shaped dives were more likely to indicate the termination of foraging activity. However, neither dive type nor bout length predicted whether individuals subsequently (i) stayed to forage in the same location or (ii) moved to a new location to continue foraging within the same trip from the nest. European shags therefore showed temporal non‐independence across successive dive cycles and successive bouts of dives, likely as a result of temporal and spatial variation in prey availabilities rather than cumulative physiological effects that might contravene the assumptions in models of optimal dive behaviour.
Method evaluation and risk assessment: A framework for evaluating management strategies for data‐limited fisheries
Authors: Carruthers Thomas R. , Huynh Quang C. , Hordyk Adrian R. , Newman David , Smith Anthony D. M. , Sainsbury Keith J. , Stokes Kevin , Morison Alexander , Agnew David , Parma Ana , Sobrino Ignacio , Longo Catherine
Published: January 2023

Fisheries managers are in need of quantitative tools to inform decisions regarding selection of robust management practices, prioritising research gaps and stocks to focus on, particularly where there are limited resources or data. To support these decisions, the use of Management Strategy Evaluation (MSE), that is, closed loop simulation‐testing of management procedures, is widely regarded as best practice. However, applying MSE is time‐ and computationally intensive, and requires highly skilled expertise and processes for stakeholder input and peer review. For data‐ and capacity‐limited fisheries, MSE may be particularly challenging to implement. Yet, these are the contexts where it is most critical to test assumptions, evaluate the implications of all sources of uncertainty and identify the most informative data sources. To facilitate wider use of MSE, the Method Evaluation and Risk Assessment (MERA) framework was developed as an accessible online interface, with quick processing time, focused on generic data‐limited management procedures, but allowing progression to tailored and more data‐rich methods. The framework links a quantitative questionnaire and data input standard to a flexible operating model with optional customisation via command line access to the back‐end open‐source R libraries. Here, we illustrate a case study application of MERA for the bocinegro (Pagrus pagrus, Sparidae) fishery in the Gulf of Cadiz, where in conjunction with fishery stakeholders, a custom management procedure was developed and tested and key research gaps and data collection priorities were identified. We discuss implications for wider use of MSE in various contexts, including eco‐certification and fishery improvement projects.
“I've grown”: Parent's reflections and familial support
Authors: Coleman Heather , Kozachuk Lindsay , McDermid Campbell , Duyile Bisola , Mason Hollie , Alberque Kari , Ozdemir Merve
Published: January 2023

Objective

We examined the perceived familial support of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to better understand the assistance and gaps they experienced.

Background

Previous literature indicated various forms of support, including spousal, extended family members, and siblings. However, limited research considered the support parents experienced from their child with ASD.

Method

Using a qualitative methodology involving semistructured interviews, the team interviewed nine parents who had children with ASD.

Results

Although most extended family members were seen as supportive, some held a lack of understanding of ASD, posed questions, or made comments that the children were “spoiled.” Mothers often took on the role of “educator.” The sibling(s) helped with caregiving, but also had their own life experiences to deal with. Regarding the support that the child with ASD provided, parents explained that they had grown into a better person. They were more aware of the challenges other parents faced and held less judgements of others.

Conclusion

Overall, parents noted differing familial support needs based on their families' understanding of ASD. They valued the support the child with ASD provided and recognized how they had grown as a person.

Implications

Practitioners must continue to learn how to better understand families' experiences and recognize that each family member has differing support roles.
Curriculum, instruction, and assessment: A snapshot of world language education in Massachusetts
Authors: Ritz Catherine , Sherf Nicole
Published: January 2023

This large‐scale study used a survey to collect data on K‐12 world language classrooms in Massachusetts public schools, focusing on core instructional practices, curriculum, and assessment. The study resulted in 383 individual teacher completed responses, representing 188 districts, which was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results indicate encouraging signs in the adoption of core proficiency‐based instructional practices, thematic curriculum design, and the use of performance‐based assessments. Further support for teachers in how to implement these practices is needed, along with attention to school leaders who may have no background in world language education but are tasked with supporting and evaluating world language teachers. Survey data were collected at the beginning of school closures due to COVID‐19, capturing a picture of K‐12 world language education and a point of comparison for future research.
Spatial genetic differentiation correlates with species assemblage turnover across tropical reef fish lineages
Authors: Vilcot Maurine , Albouy Camille , Donati Giulia Francesca Azzurra , Claverie Thomas , Julius Pagu , Manel Stéphanie , Pellissier Loïc , Leprieur Fabien
Published: January 2023

Aim

Evaluating the similarity of diversity patterns across micro‐ to macroevolutionary scales in natural communities, such as species–genetic diversity correlations (SGDCs), may inform on processes shaping community assembly. However, whether SGDCs not only hold across communities but also across lineages has never been explored so far. Here we investigated SGDCs across co‐distributed taxa for different spatial components (α, β, γ), and formally tested the influence of dispersal traits on β‐SGDCs.

Location

Western Indian Ocean.

Time period

2016–2017.

Major taxa studied

Tropical reef fish species with contrasting dispersal traits.

Methods

Using double‐digest restriction‐site associated DNA sequencing (ddRADseq) Single Nucleotide Polymorphism data for 20 tropical reef fishes and distribution data of 2,446 species belonging to 12 families, we analysed the correlations between within‐species genetic diversity and within‐family species diversity (i.e., lineage diversity) for the three spatial components (α, β, γ‐SGDCs). We then related the strength of β‐SGDCs per species to proxies of larval dispersal abilities.

Results

We detected positive and significant lineage‐based SGDC only for the β component, that is, the families showing the greatest level of species turnover among sites contain the species with the greatest levels of genetic differentiation. We showed that the Monsoon Drift mainly explained the β‐diversity patterns at both intraspecific and interspecific levels. Higher β‐SGDCs were found for species with short pelagic larval duration and weak larval swimming capacity.

Main conclusions

Our study reveals a strong correlation between genetic and species β‐diversity, a result explained by the presence of a ‘soft’ barrier and mediated by larval dispersal processes. This suggests that vicariance and dispersal limitation are major processes shaping β‐diversity patterns from microevolutionary to macroevolutionary scales in tropical reef fishes.
Does speaking or writing Italian make differences?
Authors: Ghio Daniela , Bratti Massimiliano , Bignami Simona
Published: January 2023

Although researchers acknowledge the key role of language in immigrant integration, empirical analyses on how proficiency in Italian differently shape the social outcomes of immigrants living in Italy are limited. Using the Italian Survey on Social Condition and Integration of Foreign Citizens, we model individual demographic and linguistic patterns, setting apart communication ability from other linguistic skills. Clustering immigrants by mother tongue linguistic group, we leverage the age at arrival and knowledge of Italian during childhood to address endogeneity. Findings reveal how deficiencies in Italian affect integration outcomes of immigrants: the magnitude of effects due to poor proficiency in communication (understanding and speaking) is larger when compared to more formal linguistic skills (reading and writing). Women suffer from higher linguistic barriers in the employment outcomes than men do. Results give empirical argumentations to support immigrant integration through the development of language‐training programmes in destination languages tailored on immigrants' demographic and linguistic profiles.
Construction and validation of the perioral moisture‐related skin damage (PMASD) risk prediction model in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Hui , Jiang Guichun , Wang Yihan , Jia Hongyu , Qu Huan , Yong Xiuwei , Ma Lina
Published: January 2023

This study aims to analyse the risk factors of Peristomal Moisture‐Associated Skin Damage (PMASD) in colorectal cancer patients, construct a prediction model, and verify its effect. A total of 375 patients who underwent rectal cancer stoma surgery at the Liaoning Cancer Hospital between January and December 2020 were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The clinical data were retrospectively analysed for modelling and internal validation (modelling group). According to the same criteria, the clinical data of 242 patients from January and June 2021 were retrospectively analysed for external validation (validation group). Baseline patient data were recorded. Patients in the modelling group were divided into those with and without PMASD based on the occurrence of PMASD during hospitalisation. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the factors of PMASD and the PMASD nomogram model of colorectal cancer. Internal model validation was performed with the Bootstrap method, using the ROC and H‐L goodness of fit test to evaluate the differentiation and calibration of the model. Last, external validation of the model was performed. In the modelling group, 212 patients with colorectal cancer developed PMASD. According to the results of the logistic regression analysis, high fasting plasma glucose and fasting blood glucose (FPG), a history of radiotherapy, the height of the stoma opening (i.e., flat or lower than the skin surface), and skin folds around the stoma are risk factors for PMASD (OR > 1, P < 0.05). The stool shaping and colostomy are protective factors for PMASD in patients with colorectal cancer (OR < 1, P < 0.05). To establish the prediction of colorectal cancer, patient development of PMASD line, graph model, and internal verification was carried out using the Bootstrap method: H‐L test P = 0.846, area under curve, area under the ROC curve (0 > 0.75, 95% CI: 0.778–0, AUC = 0.820). The external validation included the H‐L test (P = 0.137, AUC [0.862] > 0.75, 95% CI: 0.815–0.909), with the maximum value of the Youden index as the best cut‐off value for the model. The ROC curve had a Youden index of 0.559, a sensitivity of 0.877, and a specificity of 0.657. The prompt model area showed good calibration and discrimination. The PMASD in patients with colorectal cancer is affected by defecation traits, the stoma opening height, stoma type, FPG, skin folds around the stoma, and previous radiotherapy history. The nomogram model can provide an effective means to reasonably predict the risk of PMASD in patients with colorectal cancer.
Design of a modified atmosphere packaging for apple using concept of mathematical modeling for phytochemicals stability and shelf‐life enhancement
Authors: Mangaraj Shukadev , Thakur Rajeev Ranjan , Nishad Praween
Published: January 2023

In the present investigation, experiments were conducted to model the rate of apple respiration at various temperatures using enzyme kinetics approach and Arrhenius equation. Thereafter, a governing mathematical model based on the mass balance concept was developed to design a modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) system for apple. The respiration rate model and developed equation employed in the MAP design process was verified and proved to be suitable, as indicated by moduli (E < 10%). Thereafter, a combination of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film having thickness of 30 and 50 μm, respectively was prepared by tailoring method to match the targeted gas permeability requirement of apple. The MAP system for apple was developed by packaging 1 kg of apple in the prepared film and the packages were stored at 2°C for further quality evaluation. The quality attributes of apple in terms of physico‐chemical properties, individual phenolic compounds, total phenolic content and total antioxidant capacity were assessed at a regular interval of time during storage. Based on physiological weight loss (<10%) and retention of other physicochemical and phytochemical quality till the end of storage period, the shelf life of apple was recorded as 180 days.

Practical application

The lack of adequate cold storage systems in the supply chain, improper handling and storage facilities for fresh fruits including apple, is the leading source of post‐harvest loss of perishable commodity. The modeling of respiration rate at transient state and design of perm selective modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) system could be an alternative technology which can facilitate the shelf life enhancement of apple during handling and distribution. The uniqueness in the study involves the effect of MAP system on phytochemical compounds of whole apple during storage which has been rarely reported so far. The retention of overall quality of stored apple has proved that MAP is a promising technique for quality retention and achieving better market value.
Decreased kynurenine in cerebrospinal fluid and potential role in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Peng Fuhua , She Hongda , Wang Yuge , Xu Li , Shan Yilong , Chang Yanyu , Zhong Xiaonan , Li Rui , Qiu Wei , Shu Yaqing , Tan Sha
Published: January 2023

Tryptophan (Trp) metabolism has been implicated in neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders, but its relationship with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is unclear. In this pilot study, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was prospectively collected from 26 NMOSD patients in relapse and 16 controls with noninflammatory diseases and 6 neurometabolites in the tryptophan metabolic pathway, including 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT), kynurenine (KYN), melatonin (MLT), 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5HIAA), 3‐hydroxy‐o‐aminobenzoic acid (3‐HAA), and kynurenic acid (KYA), were measured by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS). The association of Trp metabolites with NMOSD and its clinical parameters was evaluated. The role of KYN, which is a Trp metabolite involved in the binding of NMOSD‐IgG antibody to aquaporin 4 (AQP4), was also evaluated in vitro. CSF KYN was significantly decreased in patients with relapsing NMOSD compared to controls, and CSF KYN was associated with CSF white blood cells in NMOSD. In vitro experiments showed that NMOSD‐IgG specifically recognized KYN, which reversed the NMOSD‐IgG‐induced downregulation of AQP4 expression. Our results show that abnormal Trp metabolism occurs in NMOSD and that KYN might be a potential target for the treatment of AQP4‐IgG‐positive NMOSD patients.

image
Clinical and histological evaluation of microneedle fractional radiofrequency treatment on facial fine lines and skin laxity in Koreans
Authors: Suh Dong Hye , Cho Minah , Kim Hyeong Seob , Lee Sang Jun , Song Kye Yong , Kim Hei Sung
Published: January 2023

Background

Facial wrinkles and sagging are the most visible signs of aging and can cause profound distress. Microneedle fractional radiofrequency (MFR) is a minimally invasive procedure, which utilizes both microneedling and radiofrequency energy to rejuvenate the skin.

Objective

To describe the safety and efficacy of a temperature‐controlled MFR device on facial fine lines and laxity.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective chart & histology review was performed on individuals who received bipolar MFR for facial rejuvenation. A total of 15 Koreans with a median age of 46 years were included. All participants underwent a single treatment session. The results were assessed objectively using serial photography and subjectively based on the participants' satisfaction scores. Histologic changes before, immediately after MFR and at 4 months follow‐up was examined. Complications were also recorded.

Results

Partially denatured collagen fibers and dermal shrinkage was observed immediately after MFR whereas an increase in elastin and collagen was noted at 4 months follow‐up. 86.7% of recipients considered the results satisfactory. Consensus ratings by two independent dermatologists on the objective outcomes at 4‐month follow‐up were very much improved (53.3%), much improved (26.7%) and improved (20%). Treatment was well tolerated and did not cause any significant long‐lasting discomfort.

Conclusion

Temperature‐controlled bipolar MFR is a minimally invasive treatment option to consider for facial fine lines and laxity via neo‐collagenesis and neo‐elastogenesis. The procedure was safe and clinically effective.
Effect of finish line location and saliva contamination on the accuracy of crown finish line scanning
Authors: An Hongseok , Mickesh Grant J. , Cho David , Sorensen John A.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Intraoral scanners are used widely as an alternative to conventional impressions, but studies on the influence of finish line location and saliva contamination on scanning trueness are lacking. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate the influence of finish line location and saliva contamination on the scanning trueness of crown finish lines.

Materials and methods

Three ivorine teeth were prepared for all‐ceramic crowns with finish lines placed equigingivally, 0.5 mm subgingivally, and 1.0 mm subgingivally. A single‐cord technique was used for gingival retraction, and a total of 180 intraoral scans were made using two intraoral scanners (Emerald; Planmeca USA Inc., Hoffman Estates, IL, USA & Trios 3; 3Shape A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark). The prepared teeth were separated from the dentoform and scanned using the same intraoral scanners to create reference scans. All scans were imported to the design software (Dental System 2019; 3Shape A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark). After marking the finish lines of prepared teeth, intraoral scans were aligned to the reference scans for comparisons. Vertical and horizontal marginal discrepancies were measured at four different measuring points (buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal) and analyzed. Two‐way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests were used for statistical analysis (α = 0.05).

Results

The average vertical and horizontal discrepancies from various groups ranged from −33 to 440 µm. For both intraoral scanners, subgingival finish line groups showed greater vertical and horizontal discrepancies compared with equigingival finish line groups. Saliva contamination significantly increased both vertical and horizontal discrepancies for all finish line locations. The discrepancy increases due to saliva contamination were greater for the subgingival groups.

Conclusions

Subgingival finish lines were not accurately captured using the intraoral scanners. The presence of saliva significantly reduced scanning trueness, and this was amplified when the finish lines were located subgingivally.
A cross‐national study on adolescent substance use: Intentions, peer substance use, and parent‐adolescent communication
Authors: Defoe Ivy N. , Dubas Judith Semon , van Aken Marcel A. G.
Published: January 2023

This longitudinal two‐wave cross‐national study investigated whether intentions, friends' substance use, and parent‐adolescent substance‐use specific communication predict adolescent alcohol and cannabis use 1 year later, while estimating reversed links. The temporal order between these two substances was also examined. We used multi‐group cross‐lagged panel modeling on data from 2 ethnically and socioeconomically diverse samples: Sint Maarten (N = 350;Mage = 14.19) and the Netherlands (N = 602;Mage = 13.50). Results showed that in the Netherlands, cannabis use predicts more subsequent problems (alcohol use, intention to use cannabis, and affiliation with cannabis‐using friends). But for Sint Maarten, alcohol use predicts more subsequent problems (cannabis use, intention to use alcohol, and affiliation with alcohol‐using friends). These opposing results demonstrate that caution is warranted when generalizing results across countries.
Universal Design for Learning within an Integrated Multitiered System of Support
Authors: Thomas Elizabeth R. , Lembke Erica S. , Gandhi Allison Gruner
Published: January 2023

Comprehensive schoolwide initiatives like integrated multitiered systems of support (I–MTSS) and universal design for learning (UDL) present opportunities for large–scale impact on improving teacher instructional practices and, therefore, student outcomes. Specifically, implementing I–MTSS and UDL concurrently presents an opportunity to enhance and improve universal instruction for all students. This mixed–methods study explored current Tier 1 practices in elementary schools across the United States. Findings revealed that I–MTSS and UDL are perceived as being implemented concurrently. In addition, school personnel identified specific barriers to implementation.
An invasive human commensal and a native marsupial maintain tick populations at the urban fringe
Authors: Taylor Casey L. , Egan Siobhon L. , Gofton Alexander W. , Irwin Peter J. , Oskam Charlotte L. , Hochuli Dieter F. , Banks Peter B.
Published: January 2023

Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) are major disease vectors globally making it increasingly important to understand how altered vertebrate communities in urban areas shape tick population dynamics. In urban landscapes of Australia, little is known about which native and introduced small mammals maintain tick populations preventing host‐targeted tick management and leading to human–wildlife conflict. Here, we determined (1) larval, nymphal, and adult tick burdens on host species and potential drivers, (2) the number of ticks supported by the different host populations, and (3) the proportion of medically significant tick species feeding on the different host species in Northern Sydney. We counted 3551 ticks on 241 mammals at 15 sites and found that long‐nosed bandicoots (Perameles nasuta) hosted more ticks of all life stages than other small mammals but introduced black rats (Rattus rattus) were more abundant at most sites (33%–100%) and therefore important in supporting larval and nymphal ticks in our study areas. Black rats and bandicoots hosted a greater proportion of medically significant tick species including Ixodes holocyclus than other hosts. Our results show that an introduced human commensal contributes to maintaining urban tick populations and suggests ticks could be managed by controlling rat populations on urban fringes.
Postgraduate perspectives on mentoring undergraduate researchers for talent development
Authors: Asif Muhammad Zaka , Edison Arthur S , Dolan Erin L
Published: January 2023

Undergraduate research experiences are critical for the talent development of the STEM research workforce, and research mentors play an influential role in this process. Given the many life science majors seeking research experiences at universities, graduate and postdoctoral researchers (i.e., postgraduates) provide much of the daily mentoring of undergraduate researchers. Yet, there remains little research on how postgraduates contribute to talent development among undergraduate researchers. To begin to address this knowledge gap, we conducted an exploratory study of the experiences of 32 postgraduates who mentored life science undergraduate researchers. We identified four factors that they perceived as enabling undergraduate researcher talent development: undergraduate researcher characteristics, research project characteristics, and mentoring implementation as well as outcomes for both the postgraduate and undergraduate. We then describe a team‐based approach to postgraduate mentoring of undergraduate researchers that attends to these factors to provide an example that practitioners can adapt or adopt for their own research groups.
Compartmentalisation: A strategy for optimising symbiosis and tradeoff management
Authors: Mohd‐Radzman Nadiatul A. , Drapek Colleen
Published: January 2023

Plant root architecture is developmentally plastic in response to fluctuating nutrient levels in the soil. Part of this developmental plasticity is the formation of dedicated root cells and organs to host mutualistic symbionts. Structures like nitrogen‐fixing nodules serve as alternative nutrient acquisition strategies during starvation conditions. Some root systems can also form myconodules—globular root structures that can host mycorrhizal fungi. The myconodule association is different from the wide‐spread arbuscular mycorrhization. This range of symbiotic associations provides different degrees of compartmentalisation, from the cellular to organ scale, which allows the plant host to regulate the entry and extent of symbiotic interactions. In this review, we discuss the degrees of symbiont compartmentalisation by the plant host as a developmental strategy and speculate how spatial confinement mitigates risks associated with root symbiosis.
Epistemic probabilities are degrees of support, not degrees of (rational) belief
Authors: Climenhaga Nevin
Published: January 2023

I argue that when we use ‘probability’ language in epistemic contexts—e.g., when we ask how probable some hypothesis is, given the evidence available to us—we are talking aboutdegrees of support, rather thandegrees of belief. The epistemic probability of A given B is the mind‐independent degree to which B supports A, not the degree to which someone with B as their evidence believes A, or the degree to which someone would or should believe A if they had B as their evidence. My central argument is that the degree‐of‐support interpretation lets us better model good reasoning in certain cases involving old evidence. Degree‐of‐belief interpretations make the wrong predictions not only about whether old evidence confirms new hypotheses, but about the values of the probabilities that enter into Bayes' Theorem when we calculate the probability of hypotheses conditional on old evidence and new background information.
The effect of inflorescence display size and flower position on pollination success in two deceptive and one rewarding orchid
Authors: Lanzino M. , Palermo A. M. , Pellegrino G.
Published: January 2023

Inflorescence display size and flower position on the inflorescence play important roles in plant reproduction, in the formation of fruits and are primarily linked to pollinator behaviour. We used three orchids to determine how visitation rates and choice of pollinator depend on number and position of the flowers along the inflorescence.

We measured reproductive success in (1) natural conditions, (2) hand‐pollination experiments and (3) an experimental design, by modifying composition of inflorescences in populations of two deceptive orchids,Orchis anthropophoraandO. italica, and one rewarding orchid,Anacamptis coriophorasubsp.fragrans.

There were no differences in natural fruit production in relation to flower position on the inflorescence (i.e.upperversuslower part), suggesting no preference of pollinators for different parts of the inflorescence. Hand‐pollination experiments highlighted low pollen limitation inA. coriophorasubsp.fragransbut high limitation inO. italicaandO. anthropophora. Reproductive success of deceptive orchids in experimental plots decreased significantly when flowers on the upper half of the inflorescence were removed leading to reduced floral display, while reproductive success of the nectariferous species did not differ significantly.

Our data highlight that in the examined orchids there is no clear relationship between fruit formation and flower position along inflorescences. Thus we can affirm that, for orchids, the entire inflorescence plays a dominant role in insect attraction but the part of the flower spike does not influence the choice of the insect. This implies that all flowers have the same possibility of receiving visits from pollinators, and therefore each flower has the same opportunity to set fruit.