bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Students' transition into higher education: The role of self‐efficacy, regulation strategies, and academic achievements
Authors: Lin Shanyan , Mastrokoukou Sofia , Longobardi Claudio , Bozzato Paolo , Gastaldi Francesca Giovanna Maria , Berchiatti Martina
Published: April 2022

Transition into higher education (HE) has received increased interest in recent years, since it represents a challenging period for students. The aim of this study was to further understand the associations between self‐efficacy, academic achievements, and regulation in first‐year university students during their transition into HE. The convenience sample consisted of 374 first‐year university students (230 females, 61.5%), aged from 18 to 33 (M = 19.86, SD = 1.51) and recruited from an Italian university. Self‐efficacy was assessed using the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire; regulation strategies were assessed with the Inventory of Learning Patterns of Students; and a self‐reported grade point average was taken as an indicator of each student's academic performance. Result shows that students' self‐efficacy was positively associated with self‐regulation and negatively associated with a lack of regulation. Students with higher self‐efficacy and self‐regulation strategies had better academic performance. Female students performed better in academic activities and adopted more external regulation strategies. The findings represent an opportunity for university institutions to consider the interventions they provide to first‐year students in order to facilitate the successful transition from secondary school; they also provide researchers with further knowledge about the effect of self‐efficacy, and regulation strategies on students' adjustment to HE.
Molecular dynamics simulation of α‐gliadin in ethanol/aqueous organic solvents
Authors: Yu Jie‐Ting , Li Xin‐Yao , Huang Jia‐Hui , Yu Ming‐Yi , Wu Zi‐Yi , Cao Shi‐Lin
Published: April 2022

Gliadin is an important protein present in cereals. Owing to its solubility in alcohol, gliadin contributes significantly to the field of food industry. However, at present, it is challenging to study the structural characteristics of gliadin at the molecular level because the exact 3‐D structure cannot be obtained using experimental methods. In this study, an α‐gliadin model was constructed by combining homology modelling, ab initio modelling, and threading methods to study the structural properties of gliadin in ethanol aqueous solution. Our results indicated that glutamine is a key element of α‐gliadin. Also, α‐gliadin exhibited relatively low hydrophilicity and high lipid solubility. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested that there are hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces existed between α‐gliadin and ethanol molecules. This study has explored the structure of wheat gliadin and its conformation in different ethanol solutions and provides a deeper understanding towards the deacetylation mechanism and potential applications of α‐gliadin in the food industry.
Non‐conventional fermentation at laboratory scale of cocoa beans: Using probiotic microorganisms and substitution of mucilage by fruit pulps
Authors: Vizcaino‐Almeida Camila R. , Guajardo‐Flores Daniel , Caroca‐Cáceres Rodrigo , Serna‐Saldívar Sergio O. , Briones‐García Miriam , Lazo‐Vélez Marco A.
Published: April 2022

In a non‐conventional lab‐scale fermentation of cocoa beans using probiotic microorganisms and substituting the cocoa pulp for fruit pulp, physicochemical, microbiological and quality parameters were investigated. Two hundred grams of beans were fermented in a controlled environmental chamber (temperature ramp rate of 25°C for 48 h; 35°C for 48 h and 45°C for 48 h; and 65% HR). pH, titratable acid, citric, lactic and acetic acids, as well as sugars and ethanol were measured. A cut test was also performed on the cocoa beans fermented 5 and 6 days. As the fermentation time progressed, citric acid concentration decreased until 0.53 g kg−1, whereas both lactic and acetic acids increased until 0.44 and 16.58 g kg−1, respectively. Sucrose content decreased from 12.26 g kg−1 (in fresh) to 6.54 g kg−1 on the 6th day. Fructose and glucose contents increased in the cotyledons from day five, reaching a maximum concentration of 1.14 and 1.01 g kg−1, respectively, on day six. Yeasts were the main microorganisms during the first 24–48 h (8.4 log CFU g−1), while bacterial counts reached its highest number (7.8 log CFU g−1) on day four. Beans fermented 5 and 6 days resulted in more fermented beans (>81%) and less violet ones (<18.4%) than the control.
Free versus regulated migration: Comparing the wages of the New Zealand‐born, other migrants and the Australia‐born workers in Australia
Authors: Doan Tinh , Nghiem Nhung , Doan Nhan
Published: April 2022

New Zealanders can cross borders freely, work and live in Australia indefinitely thanks to the Trans‐Tasman Travel Agreement. This paper uses a recently developed decomposition method to decompose the weekly wage gap at various quantiles on the wage distribution between New Zealand‐born (NZ‐born) and Australian‐born workers, and between NZ‐born workers, migrants from other English speaking countries (OESC), and from non‐English speaking countries (NESC) to determine how free and regulated migration influences migrants’ performance in the Australian labour market. We found that NZ‐born workers earned higher weekly wages than both Australian‐born and NESC workers but earned lower wages than OESC migrants. Differences in endowment were primarily responsible for the wage gaps between NZ‐born and Australian‐born workers and between NZ‐born and OESC migrants. However, differences in returns to worker and job characteristics are mainly responsible for the wage gap between NZ‐born and NESC migrants.
Fabrication of textured cerium‐doped lutetium oxyorthosilicate ceramics by slip casting in a strong magnetic field
Authors: Wang Mingda , Fan Lingcong , Wang Shun , Wang Tun , Shi Ying
Published: April 2022

Cerium‐doped lutetium oxyorthosilicate (Lu2SiO5:Ce, LSO:Ce) slurry with 35 vol.% solid content and viscosity of 70 mPa
s (at a shear rate of 4 s–1) was prepared via a 24‐h ball milling for the powder calcined at 1200°C and adding ammonium polyacrylate of 0.2 wt.%. Textured LSO:Ce ceramics were fabricated via slip casting in a vertical magnetic field and subsequently pressureless sintering of 1650°C and hot isostatic pressing. The maximum Lotgering factor f and relative density of the textured ceramics were 0.48% and 98.8%, respectively. Effects of grain size, dispersant, viscosity of slurry, and magnetic flux density on the grain orientation of LSO:Ce ceramics were systematically investigated. Based on the spatial state of grains, we proposed the rotation rule that LSO:Ce grains with or without space constraints in the slurry align along a and c‐axis under the induction of a strong magnetic field.
ASIC1a stimulates the resistance of human hepatocellular carcinoma by promoting EMT via the AKT/GSK3β/Snail pathway driven by TGFβ/Smad signals
Authors: Zhang Yinci , Cao Niandie , Gao Jiafeng , Liang Jiaojiao , Liang Yong , Xie Yinghai , Zhou Shuping , Tang Xiaolong
Published: April 2022

Multidrug resistance is the main obstacle to curing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Acid‐sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) has critical roles in all stages of cancer progression, especially invasion and metastasis, and in resistance to therapy. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) transforms epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells after being stimulated by extracellular factors and is closely related to tumour infiltration and resistance. We used Western blotting, immunofluorescence, qRT‐PCR, immunohistochemical staining, MTT, colony formation and scratch healing assay to determine ASIC1a levels and its relationship to cell proliferation, migration and invasion. ASIC1a is overexpressed in HCC tissues, and the amount increased in resistant HCC cells. EMT occurred more frequently in drug‐resistant cells than in parental cells. Inactivation of ASIC1a inhibited cell migration and invasion and increased the chemosensitivity of cells through EMT. Overexpression of ASIC1a upregulated EMT and increased the cells’ proliferation, migration and invasion and induced drug resistance; knocking down ASIC1a with shRNA had the opposite effects. ASIC1a increased cell migration and invasion through EMT by regulating α and β‐catenin, vimentin and fibronectin expression via the AKT/GSK‐3β/Snail pathway driven by TGFβ/Smad signals. ASIC1a mediates drug resistance of HCC through EMT via the AKT/GSK‐3β/Snail pathway.
Heart failure and cognitive impairment: Complexity that requires a new approach
Authors: Gilstrap Lauren G. , Gorodeski Eiran Z. , Goyal Parag
Published: April 2022

This Editorial comments on the article by Manemann et al. in this issue.
The use of radio‐wave surgery: An underestimated method for small hyperpigmented flat or macular lesions on face
Authors: Pekmezci Erkin
Published: April 2022

Background

Although choosing the appropriate treatment method is relatively easy for papular or protuberant lesions, for small macular lesions it may not be so, because they are generally percepted as mild lesions by the patient and she/he usually has the anxiety of final disfigurement which may result esthetically worse than the original one. It is reasonable to choose the method which will reveal the least scar formation and lowest recurrence rate with cost‐effectiveness, in removal of superficial small macular lesions for cosmetic purposes.

Methods

Fifty‐six male and female patients with small hyperpigmented flat or macular lesions, less than or equal to 5 mm diameter on their face, who referred to hospital dermatology clinic for removal and received an interventional therapy with a radio‐wave surgery unit in the years 2018–2019 were retrospectively recruited. Besides the observation of scar formation and residual erythema, 3‐month recurrence rates were also analyzed.

Results

At the end of 3 months, there was no scar on any lesion site. Mild erythema was detected on 15 lesion sites out of a total of 218 (6.9%).The total recurrence rate was 7.7%. The mean age of the patients with at least one recurrence was significantly greater than the patients with no recurrence, and the lesions greater than 3 mm were more prone to recur than the lesions less than or equal to 3 mm.

Conclusion

Although no method of lesion removal can warrant a scarless result without recurrence, for benign macular hyperpigmented lesions of the face up to 5 mm in diameter, radio‐wave surgery may be preferred due to both its minimal scar formation and recurrence rate, in addition to its cost‐effectiveness.
Trends in deprivation in hospitalisations of Indigenous children and young people in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Oben Glenda , Crengle Sue , Kokaua Jesse , Duncanson Mavis
Published: April 2022

Aim

To examine the 20‐year trends in socio‐economic inequities in hospitalisations of Māori and non‐Māori non‐Pacific (NMNP) under‐25‐year olds in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Methods

Hospital discharge data for Māori and NMNP taitamariki aged under‐25 years were extracted from the National Minimum Dataset for the period 2000–2019. Acute or arranged admissions to hospital were included where the primary diagnosis was for a medical condition. Age‐ and gender‐standardised rates (per 1000, 0–24‐year old) were calculated for both ethnic groups by area deprivation using the 2013 NZ census estimated resident population. For each ethnic group, inequity indices of socio‐economic deprivation (Slope Index of Inequality and Relative Index of Inequality) were computed, using regression modelling, to quantify inequity of medical condition‐related hospitalisations and its changes over time.

Results

Hospitalisation rates for medical conditions were consistently higher for Māori than for NMNP under‐25‐year olds from 2000 to 2019. Māori taitamariki residing in the most deprived (quintile 5) areas were more likely than NMNP to be hospitalised for a medical condition at each time point. Deprivation inequities existed for both ethnic groups and were greater for Māori. Despite reducing deprivation inequities over time, ethnic differences persist on both absolute and relative scales.

Conclusion

Deprivation inequities in hospitalisation for medical conditions persist for Māori taitamariki compared with NMNP and highlights society's tolerance of enduring inequity in health outcomes.
Mechanical properties of gellan gum beads prepared with potassium or calcium ions
Authors: Vilela Joice Aline Pires , Bonsanto Fabiana Perrechil , Cunha Rosiane Lopes
Published: April 2022

Biopolymer beads can be used as carrier and encapsulation system for a wide variety of materials in food, medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, agricultural, and environmental applications. Beads of low acyl gellan gum (0.4–1.2% w/w) were produced using extrusion technique (dripping) followed by an ionotropic gelation step with calcium or potassium chloride. In this methodology, gel formation is accomplished by cations diffusion at room temperature and, as a consequence, different structure and gel properties could be obtained. Gellan beads were subjected to uniaxial compression measurements. The force‐displacement curves showed that the occurrence of structural failure under tested conditions depended on beads formulation and was only observed at polysaccharide concentration above 0.8% (w/w). Maximum force or force at failure was mainly dependent on the type (monovalent or divalent cation) and salt concentration. Moreover, at fixed salt amounts, higher values of maximum force were reached using a concentration of 1% (w/w) gellan. Young modulus, determined using Hertz approach, showed values between 445 and 840 kPa depending on polysaccharide concentration and salt type added. Mechanical properties are critical features of gel beads and can define their suitability for a specific application. Therefore, the results obtained, mainly intrinsic properties such as Young modulus, could be a tool for comparing and choosing polysaccharides for specific uses.
A multicenter retrospective study assessing progression of biliary sludge in dogs using ultrasonography
Authors: Butler Thomas , Bexfield Nick , Dor Cecile , Fantaconi Nicoletta , Heinsoo Iris , Kelly Darren , Kent Andrew , Pack Matthew , Spence Susanna J. , Ward Patricia M. , Watson Penny , McCallum Katie E.
Published: April 2022

Background

Biliary sludge (BS) frequently is identified on ultrasonographic examination and is described as incidental. It is hypothesized that biliary stasis and hypersecretion play a role in both BS and gallbladder mucocele (GBM) formation. Recent studies have documented similarities in composition of BS and GBM, and there are several examples of progression from BS to GBM in the veterinary literature.

Objectives

To assess the relationship between the presence of BS and later development of GBM in dogs, over time periods >12 months.

Animals

A total of 154 dogs with BS and ultrasonographic follow‐up >12 months.

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively collected from 9 UK‐based referral centers for all available time points. A semiobjective scoring system was used to track volume of BS within the gall bladder (GB) over time.

Results

Twenty dogs developed GBM during the study period. Shetland Sheepdogs (odds ratio [OR], 40.99; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.61‐465.95; P = .003) and Border Terriers (OR, 11.66; 95% CI, 3.28‐46.63; P < .001) were independent risk factors for the development of GBM. Non–gravity‐dependent BS (NDBS) was noted to form before GBM development in 9/20 dogs, and breeds at‐risk for GBM were more likely to have NDBS. Odds for the development of GBM increased with BS score.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs with NDBS may be at risk for the development of GBM and a stratified BS scoring system could allow for semiobjective monitoring over time, particularly in at‐risk breeds.
Wind impairs pit trap construction and hunting success in a pit‐building predator
Authors: Miler K. , Scharf I.
Published: April 2022

Animals require a set of abiotic conditions to survive and reproduce. When one of these requirements is not met, the animal's performance is impaired. The most often studied abiotic factor is temperature but less is known on other such factors. We examined, here, the effect of wind on the hunting performance of pit‐building predators, insect larvae that dig pit traps in loose soil to hunt arthropod prey. We used wormlions (Diptera: Vermileonidae) as a case study. Pit‐building predators depend on their immediate environment for efficient pit construction and maintenance. For example, they require dry suitable substrate (loose soil) comprised of particles of a specific size range. Because wind blows loose soil and impairs pit construction and maintenance, we expected strong negative effects of wind on pit design and hunting success. Wind destroyed both artificial pit traps and wormlion‐dug pits by moving sand into the pits and reducing their slopes—an important parameter of pits in terms of prey capture. Wormlions also attempted less frequently to attack the prey when the wind was blowing compared to the control and, among the wormlions responding, such response took place later, allowing the prey to escape. We expected wormlions to relocate away when exposed to the wind, but this did not hold true. This result is in line with the generally low relocation rate in wormlions. We suggest that wind has strong negative effects on the performance of pit builders in nature. Sites that provide at least partial protection from wind should be preferred for pit establishment.
Microbial diversity and composition in acidic sediments of freshwater finfish culture ponds fed with two types of feed: a metagenomic approach
Authors: Kusunur A.B. , Velayudhan L.K. , Vaiyapuri M. , Gaurav R. , Tripathi G. , Kurcheti P.P. , Badireddy M.R. , Joseph T.C.
Published: April 2022

Microbial community profile associated with acidic pond sediments (APS) (pH = 3·0–4·5) of freshwater finfish aquaculture ponds (n = 8) was investigated. Sediment DNA extracted from the eight APS were subjected to high-throughput sequencing of V3 and V4 regions which yielded 7236 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) at a similarity of 97%. Overall results showed higher proportion of bacterial OTUs than archaeal OTUs in all the APS. Euryarchaeota (23%), Proteobacteria (19%), Chloroflexi (17%), Crenarchaeota (5·3%), Bacteroidetes (4·8%), Nitrospirae (3·2%), Nanoarchaeaeota (3%) which together constituted 75% of the microbial diversity. At the genus level, there was high preponderance of methanogens namely Methanolinea (5·4%), Methanosaeta (4·5%) and methanotrops, Bathyarchaeota (5%) in APS. Moreover, the abundant phyla in the APS were not drastically affected by the administration of chicken slaughter waste (R-group ponds) and commercial fish feed (C-group ponds), since 67% of the OTUs generated remained common in the APS of both the groups of ponds. There was a minimal difference of 24–26% of OTUs between C-group and R-group ponds, suggesting the existence of a core microbial community in these ponds driven by acidic pH over the years. This study concludes that microbial diversity in pond sediment was influenced to a lesser extent by the addition of chicken slaughter waste but was majorly driven by acidic nature of the pond.
Correlation between the salivary microbiology and H2S concentration of the oral cavity
Authors: Jiang Jiarui , Huang Yufen , Luo Na , Mi Qili , Li Xuemei , Zhang Wei , Sun Silong , Zhu Baokun , Gao Qian
Published: April 2022

Background

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the most important compound causing oral malodor, and its concentration is thought to be closely correlated with oral microorganism activity. Therefore, clarifying the correlation between oral microbes and metabolites is important.

Methods

This study tested with 16S rRNA gene amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing of oral microorganisms and oral malodor tests.

Results

There were different of the microbial taxa between the low and high H2S groups. And in the high H2S group, most of the enriched taxa were genera which abundance was correlated with H2S concentration. Fusobacterium periodonticum and Prevotella nanceiensis were significantly different in coverage breadth and depth and in LPS biosynthesis contributions between the two groups. The contribution of F. periodonticum to sulfur metabolism was significantly different between the two groups, and the relative F. periodonticum abundance was higher in the high H2S group.

Conclusions

The H2S content is significantly associated with the oral cavity microorganism composition and abundance. Most microorganisms enriched in people with high H2S levels are associated with oral diseases such as caries and periodontal diseases.
Assessment of the left ventricular volume of tetralogy of Fallot by electrocardiogram
Authors: Kawai Shun , Wakamiya Takuya , Ichikawa Yasuhiro , Ono Shin , Kim Ki‐Song , Yanagi Sadamitsu , Ueda Hideaki
Published: April 2022

Background

Sufficient left ventricular volume is required for patients with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) who are going to have biventricular repair. In this study, we investigated the utility of the electrocardiogram to evaluate left ventricular volume in patients with TOF.

Method

Patients whose left ventricular (LV) end‐diastolic volume was lower than 80% of normal were defined as having a small LV. Seven patients with TOF who had to undergo Blalock–Taussig shunt surgery because of a small LV were assigned to group S. Twenty patients with TOF who had sufficient LV volume were assigned to group G. The amplitudes of the Q wave of V5–7 leads (QV5–QV7), the S wave of V1 lead, and the R wave of the II, III, aVf, and V5–7 leads of the electrocardiogram were evaluated.

Results

The amplitude of QV5 was 0 mV in all cases in group S, which was significantly smaller than that in group G (0 vs 0.01 mV, P = 0.028). The frequency of absent QV5 was significantly higher in group S than in group G (100% vs 50%, P = 0.026). Absent QV5 showed 100% sensitivity, 50% specificity, and a negative predictive value of 100% for a small LV.

Conclusions

In TOF, the amplitude of the septal Q wave reflects LV volume. In particular, the absence of QV5 suggests a small LV end‐diastolic volume, which is lower than 80% of normal.
When immunosuppression and COVID‐19 intersect: An exploratory qualitative study of young lung transplant recipient perceptions of daily life during a pandemic
Authors: Hatzikiriakidis Kostas , West Simone , Ayton Darshini , Morris Heather , Martin Rani S. , Paraskeva Miranda
Published: April 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic poses an increased risk of infection, severe illness, hospitalization and mortality for young people who are immunosuppressed, including lung transplant (LTx) recipients. The aim of this study was to explore the intersection between immunosuppression and COVID‐19, through the impacts of the pandemic upon the daily lives of young LTx recipients residing in the Australian state of Victoria.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative research study was undertaken via consumer engagement. A purposive sample of 11 LTx recipients, residing in Victoria, was recruited during the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted to gain insights into their daily life and healthcare experiences, including the impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Data were interpreted using thematic analysis.

Results

Four major themes were identified: (1) occupational deprivation due to the intersection of COVID‐19 and lung transplant; (2) resilience and acceptance of restrictions; (3) infection control and vigilance about risk; and (4) care experiences of telehealth.

Conclusions

Occupational deprivation emerged as a common theme, specifically in the context of loss of access to meaningful everyday activities of developmental significance. However, participants also commonly reflected upon their ability to flexibly adjust to changing socially regulated community and healthcare environments. A high degree of acceptance and compliance with public health orders was self‐reported, may be indicative of this cohort's long‐term experience of chronic illness and their understanding of the importance of minimizing infection risks. Youth‐informed healthcare strategies were identified as keystone to engaging them in institutional change and program adaptation during a pandemic.
Comparison of the efficiency and precision of Base editor and CRISPR/Cas9 for inducing defined point mutation (S395F) in ovine embryos
Authors: Xu Xin , Zhang Xuemei , Peng Xinrong , Liu Chunjie , Li Wenrong , Liu Mingjun
Published: April 2022

Cytosine base editors (CBEs) and CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated HDR method both have the ability to introduce nucleotide substitution into genomes, which exhibit great potential for improving economically important traits in livestock species. The FecGH mutation (g. C1184T, p. S395F) of growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) gene increases prolificacy in Cambridge sheep and Belclare sheep. In the present study, we aimed to compare the efficiency and precision of BE4‐Gam and CRISPR/Cas9 systems on generating FecGH mutation in ovine genome. First, the microinjection of BE4‐Gam mRNA had no adverse effects on development rate after cleavage, and the efficiencies of total mutants and targeted mutants were 8.9% and 7.1%, respectively. Then, the total mutation and targeted mutation rates were improved from 8.5% to 22.5% (p < .01), and 6.4% to 16.3%, respectively, by adjusting the injection time of BE4‐Gam mRNA from 14 to 12 hr post‐insemination (hpi). Furthermore, CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated HDR method introduced the FecGH mutation at the efficiency of 16.1%, which was comparable to BE4‐Gam system (16.3%). There was no bystander editing event happened in edited embryos caused by CRISPR/Cas9, but the bystander editing efficiency was as high as 15.0% in BE4‐Gam‐edited embryos. In summary, our findings demonstrated that CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated HDR method was more accurate than BE4‐Gam system in introducing FecGH into ovine genome, and highlight the potential of the former strategy to modify economically important trait‐associated SNPs.
Can vegetation clearing operations and reprofiling of bars be considered as an ecological restoration measure? Lessons from a 10‐year vegetation monitoring program (Loire River, France)
Authors: Janssen Philippe , Chevalier Richard , Chantereau Michel , Dupré Rémi , Evette André , Hémeray Damien , Mårell Anders , Martin Hilaire , Rodrigues Stéphane , Villar Marc , Greulich Sabine
Published: April 2022

Maintenance operations in regulated rivers are often implemented as preventive measure to maintain wide, smooth channels and to limit the risk of flooding. By clearing vegetation, removing roots and lowering sediment bar elevation, these works can recreate pioneer habitats and related plant communities. Using a before‐after‐control‐impact design with monitoring of riparian vegetation over 10 years, we evaluated the effects of fluvial maintenance works on plant richness and composition in an island complex located in a Nature Reserve along the Middle Loire River. Our results showed that artificial rejuvenation operations had a significant short‐term negative effect on richness. However, in the few years following the work, the riparian communities established on the rejuvenated island became more diverse, with a large proportion of annual plants, contributing to the increased species pool of the Nature Reserve. In addition, we found that temporal changes in species richness were strongly influenced by hydrological conditions, with a peak in biodiversity observed during prolonged summer low water. This highlights the importance of considering flow variations to more accurately assess the ecological benefit of restoration operations on riparian vegetation. Overall, as successional stages were more advanced at the island complex scale, fluvial maintenance works have allowed the recreation of sandy pioneer habitats exposed to flooding. These habitats have promoted the establishment of species‐rich communities without favoring the installation of invasive alien species. From this view, the maintenance works have increased the mosaic of habitats within the Nature Reserve and have restored environmental conditions favorable to early‐successional species.
Climate Change, Agrarian Distress, and the Feminization of Agriculture in South Asia*
Authors: Southard Emily M. L. , Randell Heather
Published: April 2022

Agrarian distress—the experience wherein sustaining an agricultural livelihood becomes increasingly challenging—is well documented in South Asia. Another regional trend is the feminization of agriculture or an increase in women's work and decision‐making in agriculture. Scholars have recently linked these two phenomena, demonstrating that agrarian distress results in the movement of men out of agriculture, driving women into the sector. Yet what remains underexplored is the relationship between climate change, a contributor to agrarian distress, and the feminization of agriculture. To examine this, we link socioeconomic and demographic data from India, Bangladesh, and Nepal to high‐resolution gridded climate data. We then estimate a set of multivariate regression models to explore linkages between recent temperature and precipitation variability from historical norms and the likelihood that a woman works in agriculture. Results suggest that hotter‐than‐normal conditions in the year prior to the survey are associated with an increased likelihood of working in agriculture among women. This relationship is particularly strong among married women and women with less than primary education. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms between climate change and the feminization of agriculture, our findings suggest a need for gender‐sensitive climate change adaptation strategies.
Association of domain‐specific physical activity and sedentary behavior with cardiometabolic health among office workers
Authors: Kitano Naruki , Kai Yuko , Jindo Takashi , Fujii Yuya , Tsunoda Kenji , Arao Takashi
Published: April 2022

Objective

Previous studies have reported opposite effects of occupational or non‐occupational physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) on health outcomes. However, no study has investigated the relationship between domain‐specific movement behaviors and cardiometabolic health (CMH) among office workers, considering the compositional nature of time‐use data. We investigated the associations of accelerometer‐measured PA and SB for each domain (working time, non‐working time on workday, and non‐workday) with CMH indicators among office workers, using compositional data analysis.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 1258 Japanese office workers. The time spent on SB, light‐intensity PA (LPA), and moderate‐ to vigorous‐intensity PA (MVPA) were assessed using an accelerometer. CMH indicators were retrieved from the annual health check‐up data.

Results

Compositional multiple linear regression indicated that PA and SB during non‐working time on workdays, but not working time or non‐workdays, were significantly associated with CMH. In particular, during non‐working time, time reallocations from SB to LPA and from SB to MVPA were associated with favorable changes in cardiometabolic risk score and lipid metabolism, respectively. Paradoxically, a greater proportion of LPA during non‐working time was associated with favorable diastolic blood pressure (β = 1.61; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.02, 3.19), whereas occupational LPA was detrimental (β = −2.48; 95% CI = −4.87, −0.09).

Conclusion

Our results suggested that reducing SB and increasing PA during non‐working time on workdays may be effective for managing CMH among office workers. Future longitudinal studies using compositional data analysis are required to confirm our results.
Mason Marshall Reading Plato’s Dialogues to Enhance Learning and Inquiry: Exploring Socrates’ Use of Protreptic for Student Engagement
Authors: Lichański Jakub Z.
Published: April 2022

This article is based on a study by Mason Marshall Reading Plato’s Dialogues to Enhance Learning and Inquiry. Exploring Socrates’ Use of Protreptic for Student Engagement .  The author makes, inter alia, analyzes of the Plato’s dialogue Euthyphro and emphasizes the ways of promoting and encouraging Socrates used for self-evaluation and conscious reflection in the interlocutor. By focusing his work on Socrates’ use of protreptic, Marshall proposes a practical approach to reading Plato, illustrating how his writings can be used to enhance intrinsic motivation amongst students, and help them develop the thinking skills required for democratic and civic engagement.The article shows how to practically apply a protreptic in didactics; it also points to the work of Ole Fogh Kirkeby, who writes about similar matters and justifies the use of traditional teaching methods in a modern school.
Extracellular vesicles and their microRNA cargo in ischaemic stroke
Authors: Fullerton Josie L. , Cosgrove Caitlin C. , Rooney Rebecca A. , Work Lorraine M.
Published: April 2022

Acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) is a leading cause of death and disability. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non‐coding RNAs which hold the potential to act as a novel biomarker in AIS. The majority of circulating miRNAs are actively encapsulated by extracellular vesicles (EVs) produced by many cells and organs endogenously. EVs released by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been extensively studied for their therapeutic potential. In health and disease, EVs are vital for intercellular communication, as the cargo within EVs can be exchanged between neighbouring cells or transported to distant sites. It is clear here from both current preclinical and clinical studies that AIS is associated with specific EV‐derived miRNAs, including those transported via MSC‐derived EVs. In addition, current studies provide evidence to show that modulating levels of specific EV‐derived miRNAs in AIS provides a novel therapeutic potential of miRNAs in the treatment of stroke. Commonalities exist in altered miRNAs across preclinical and clinical studies. Of those EV‐packaged miRNAs, miRNA‐124 was described both as an EV‐packaged biomarker and as a potential EV‐loaded therapeutic in experimental models. Alterations of miRNA‐17 family and miRNA‐17‐92 cluster were identified in preclinical, clinical and MSC‐EV‐mediated neuroprotection in experimental stroke. Finally, miRNA‐30d and ‐30a were found to mediate therapeutic effect when overexpressed from MSC and implicated as a biomarker clinically. Combined, EV‐derived miRNAs will further our understanding of the neuropathological processes triggered by AIS. In addition, this work will help determine the true clinical value of circulating EV‐packaged miRNAs as biomarkers of AIS or as novel therapeutics in this setting.

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The Irradiance-Based Growth of Surface Structures Induced by Nanosecond Laser Pulses on Si and Ge and Their Correlation With Plasma Ion Kinetic Energies and Densities
Authors: Ahmad Haroon , Bashir Shazia , Hayat Asma , Mahmood Khaliq , Ghous Ghulam
Published: April 2022

The laser irradiance-based surface structural growth on Si and Ge has been correlated first time with plasma parameters. The better control over plasma parameters makes manufacturing of various sized and shaped surface structures on the semiconducting materials. The effect of laser irradiances on surface morphology of Si and Ge has been explored. For this purpose, Nd: YAG laser (532 nm, 6 ns, 10 Hz) has been employed as an irradiation source at the various laser irradiances ranging from 4 to 7.1 GW/cm2 under the vacuum condition. Surface modifications of laser-ablated Si and Ge were analyzed by performing scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. It has been revealed that laser irradiance plays a significant role in the growth of the micro- and nanostructures on the laser-irradiated target surfaces. The surface morphology of laser-ablated Si and Ge exhibited the formation of various structures such as laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS), cracks, spikes, ridges, and cones. Density and size of these structures have been found to be strongly dependent upon the laser irradiances. SEM analysis exhibits the cones formation at central ablated region of both Si and Ge. These cones become more distinct and pronounced with increasing the laser irradiance due to more energy deposition with Gaussian profile distribution at the central region. Microspikes were observed at boundaries of laser-ablated Si. Whereas, in case of Ge-ablated boundaries, wave-like ridges have been observed, which are then converted into globules at higher laser irradiances up to 7 GWcm−2. LIPSSs were seen at outer boundaries of laser-ablated Ge, whose periodicity varies with the laser irradiances. Faraday cup has been employed in order to probe the kinetic energy and density of laser-induced Si and Ge plasma ions at the similar values of laser irradiances. A correlation at similar values of laser irradiances has been established between the evaluated plasma ion parameters (kinetic energy and density of plasma ions) and observed structures for both materials. This correlation reveals the dependence of kinetic energy and density of plasma ions on the corresponding surface modification of both laser-ablated Si and Ge, as well as enables us for the better understanding of the laser-induced plasma to be used as ion source in various fields ion implantation, surface structuring, and material modification. The results of ion energies are explained by the generation of ambipolar field or self-generated electric field (SGEF) in the expanding plasma due to the charge separation and double-layer structure. The values of SGEF have also been evaluated at different laser irradiances.
Thermal Aging Effects on the Yield and Tensile Strength of 9Cr-1Mo-V (Grade 91)
Authors: Foulds Jude , Ren Weiju
Published: April 2022

The long-term exposure of 9Cr-1Mo-V (Grade 91) steel to elevated temperature can have a significant effect on reducing its yield and tensile strength. The yield and tensile strength changes, in turn, have potential implications to the assurance of the integrity of components constructed with this material over their design or intended lifetime. The ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC), Section III, Division 5 (III-5, high temperature reactors) provides tabulated reduction factors for Grade 91 yield and tensile strength as a function of exposure temperature and time up to 300,000 h. ASME BPVC III-5 s intent to extend these factors to an exposure duration of 500,000 h, the lack of available historic information to support the existing factors, and the recent development of a physics-based prediction model for ASME BPVC application are prime motivation for this study. This paper describes results of the conventional time-temperature Hollomon–Jaffe parameter, strength reduction ratio prediction method using an updated, extensive Grade 91 unaged and related aged material strength database. The method, previously used by Oak Ridge National Laboratory in its evaluation of Grade 91 and likely used in development of the existing BPVC III-5 reduction factors, provides strength reduction ratio predictions useful for general component fitness-for-service assessments and for computing BPVC III-5 reduction factors as defined. Specific reduction factors to 500,000 h at 650 °C applicable to ASME BPVC III-5 are computed from the strength reduction ratios.
Closed-Form Stress Intensity Factor Solutions for Circumferential and Axial Surface Cracks With Large Aspect Ratios in Pipes
Authors: Azuma Kisaburo , Li Yinsheng
Published: April 2022

The ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section XI prescribes the stress intensity factor solutions at the surface and deepest points for a semi-elliptical crack. The ASME Code Section XI, however, provides no solutions for a crack with a large aspect ratio, that is a crack in which the crack depth a is larger than the half-length c. The difficulty in treating the crack with a large aspect ratio relates to the position of the maximum stress intensity factor, which appears at neither the surface point nor the deepest point. In this paper, we investigate the influence of the stress intensity factor at the maximum point for circumferential and axial inside surface cracks with a large aspect ratio in a cylinder. First, we obtain the influence coefficients Gi for the stress intensity factor at the surface point, the deepest point, and the maximum point by finite element analysis, and developed a series of closed-form Gi solutions. Three geometrical factors are considered as parameters affecting the influence coefficients Gi: aspect ratio (a/ℓ = 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0), crack depth ratio (a/t = 0.01, 0.1, 0.2, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8), and radius to thickness ratio (Ri/t = 2, 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80). Finally, we propose methods for evaluating the stress intensity factor for a crack with a large aspect ratio in a manner that characterizes the influence of the solutions at the maximum point.
Morphological abnormalities observed in hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) collected by tick drag in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Chong Sung-tae , Kim Heung Chul , Suh Sang Jae , Klein Terry A. , Mahabir Sanjeev , Ashby Dallin M. , Kim Myung Soon , Robbins Richard George
Published: April 2022

As part of a tick-borne disease surveillance program, ticks were collected using tick drags and by making incidental collections from humans and animals in six provinces (Gyeonggi, Gangwon, Chungnam, Gyeongbuk, Gyeongnam, and Jeonbuk) of the Republic of Korea (ROK) during 2020–2021. A total of 57,751 Haemaphysalis longicornis, 2,020 H. flava, 1,861 Ixodes nipponensis, 14 H. phasiana, 9 H. japonica, and 9 Amblyomma testudinarium were collected. Cases of ectromely were observed in two H. longicornis with six legs (one female and one nymph), and six H. longicornis (two females and four nymphs), two female Haemaphysalis flava and one male Ixodes nipponensis with seven legs. Additionally, two female H. longicornis were found with extra legs (tarsus), and two female H. longicornis and one male H. japonica were observed with atrophied legs.
Efficacy of stored indigenous predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis against Tetranychus urticae red form on eggplant under greenhouse conditions
Authors: Karut Kamil , Döker İsmail , Kazak Cengiz
Published: April 2022

Cold storage is the most prevalent method to obtain sufficient number of natural enemies after mass rearing. In this study efficacy of stored indigenous Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot against Tetrancyhus urticae red form on eggplant under greenhouse conditions were assessed after determining best storage conditions for the predatory mite stored at 5 and 10 oC with >98% RH conditions. Treatments in the greenhouse experiments consisted of T. urticae release (control), P. persimilis release stored at 5 oC for 15-day and unstored P. persimilis releases in 2014. In 2015, P. persimilis release stored at the same temperature for 30-day was made along with a control and unstored P. persimilis release. P. persimilis survival was 100% after 5.5 weeks at 5 oC, and was 75% at 10 oC for the same storage period. No significant difference was observed between the total mean numbers of T. urticae mixed stages in unstored and stored predatory mite release treatments for 15-day-stored predatory mites. On the contrary, a significant difference was detected among the T. urticae densities in all three treatments on some sampling dates at 30-day-stored predatory mite released treatments. The results showed that P. persimilis demonstrated great effectiveness on suppressing the T. urticae red form, and 15-day-stored indigenous strains of P. persimilis could be successfully used in the biological control of T. urticae in greenhouse-grown eggplant when compared to 30-day-stored P. persimilis.
Theory of defect-mediated morphogenesis
Authors: Hoffmann Ludwig A. , Carenza Livio Nicola , Eckert Julia , Giomi Luca
Published: April 2022

Growing experimental evidence indicates that topological defects could serve as organizing centers in the morphogenesis of tissues. Here, we provide a quantitative explanation for this phenomenon, rooted in the buckling theory of deformable active polar liquid crystals. Using a combination of linear stability analysis and computational fluid dynamics, we demonstrate that active layers, such as confined cell monolayers, are unstable to the formation of protrusions in the presence of disclinations. The instability originates from an interplay between the focusing of the elastic forces, mediated by defects, and the renormalization of the system’s surface tension by the active flow. The posttransitional regime is also characterized by several complex morphodynamical processes, such as oscillatory deformations, droplet nucleation, and active turbulence. Our findings offer an explanation of recent observations on tissue morphogenesis and shed light on the dynamics of active surfaces in general.
One-year surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 transmission of the ELISA cohort: A model for population-based monitoring of infection risk
Authors: Klein Christine , Borsche Max , Balck Alexander , Föh Bandik , Rahmöller Johann , Peters Elke , Knickmann Jan , Lane Miranda , Vollstedt Eva-Juliane , Elsner Susanne A. , Käding Nadja , Hauswaldt Susanne , Lange Tanja , Hundt Jennifer E. , Lehrian Selina , Giese Julia , Mischnik Alexander , Niemann Stefan , Maurer Florian , Homolka Susanne , Paulowski Laura , Kramer Jan , Twesten Christoph , Sina Christian , Gillessen-Kaesbach Gabriele , Busch Hauke , Ehlers Marc , Taube Stefan , Rupp Jan , Katalinic Alexander
Published: April 2022

With newly rising coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases, important data gaps remain on (i) long-term dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection rates in fixed cohorts (ii) identification of risk factors, and (iii) establishment of effective surveillance strategies. By polymerase chain reaction and antibody testing of 1% of the local population and >90,000 app-based datasets, the present study surveilled a catchment area of 300,000 inhabitants from March 2020 to February 2021. Cohort (56% female; mean age, 45.6 years) retention was 75 to 98%. Increased risk for seropositivity was detected in several high-exposure groups, especially nurses. Unreported infections dropped from 92 to 29% during the study. “Contact to COVID-19–affected” was the strongest risk factor, whereas public transportation, having children in school, or tourism did not affect infection rates. With the first SARS-CoV-2 cohort study, we provide a transferable model for effective surveillance, enabling monitoring of reinfection rates and increased preparedness for future pandemics.
Fast equilibration mechanisms in disordered materials mediated by slow liquid dynamics
Authors: Song Zijian , Rodríguez-Tinoco Cristian , Mathew Allen , Napolitano Simone
Published: April 2022

The rate at which a nonequilibrium system decreases its free energy is commonly ascribed to molecular relaxation processes, arising from spontaneous rearrangements at the microscopic scale. While equilibration of liquids usually requires density fluctuations at time scales quickly diverging upon cooling, growing experimental evidence indicates the presence of a different, alternative pathway of weaker temperature dependence. Such equilibration processes exhibit a temperature-invariant activation energy, on the order of 100 kJ mol
−1
. Here, we identify the underlying molecular process responsible for this class of Arrhenius equilibration mechanisms with a slow mode (SAP), universally observed in the liquid dynamics of thin films. The SAP, which we show is intimately connected to high-temperature flow, can efficiently drive melts and glasses toward more stable, less energetic states. Our results show that measurements of liquid dynamics can be used to predict the equilibration rate in the glassy state.