bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Konjac Gum on Physicochemical, Rheological, Textural Properties, and In Vitro Digestibility of Purple Potato Starch
Authors: He Dan , Li Yue , Wu Yinglong
Published: April 2024

Adding hydrocolloids into native starch is a secure and valid method of physical modification. However, few research focuses on the interactions between konjac gum (KGM) and purple potato starch (PPS). In this study, the effects of KGM on the physicochemical, rheological, textural properties, and in vitro digestibility of PPS are evaluated. The swelling power, solubility, transparency, zeta potential value, particle size, gel adhesiveness, and cohesiveness of PPS are enhanced with increasing KGM content. The results show the combination of PPS and KGM exhibits a higher adhesiveness and a denser structure than that of PPS alone. Static rheological analysis shows PPS/KGM composites exhibit pseudoplastic and shear thinning enhancement behaviors with the rise of the KGM content from 0% to 2.5%. Dynamic rheological analysis reveals that storage modulus (G') > loss modulus (G″), mainly showing elastic behavior, and G′, G″, and the loss tangent (tan δ) increase with the rise of the KGM content from 0% to 2.5%. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis shows stronger hydrogen bonding of PPS/KGM complexes compared to PPS only. Moreover, KGM increases the contents of resistant starch. All these findings indicate that KGM can improve the functional properties of PPS.
UK dog fighting ring had cross‐Channel reach
Authors: Loeb Josh
Published: April 2024

Josh Loeb reports on the conviction of a criminal gang involved in dog fighting in the UK and Europe.
James Anthony Giles Gilling
Authors: Weeks-Gibbard Sandie
Published: April 2024

Well‐known for his quirky sense of humour, Giles helped many people and animals during his 38 years as a vet. He will be remembered for his love of animals and enjoyment of endurance riding.
The use of thiazole derivative molecules as sensor materials: Potentiometric determination of Cu(II) ions
Authors: Ören Serkan , Özbek Oguz , Isildak Ömer
Published: April 2024

In this study, poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)–membrane potentiometric sensors for the determination of copper(II) ions were prepared using 2‐acetamido‐4‐(2‐hydroxyphenyl)thiazole (L1), 2‐amino‐4‐(trifluoromethyl)thiazole‐5‐carboxylic acid (L2) and ethyl 2‐amino‐4,5,6,7‐tetrahydrobenzo[d]thiazole‐6‐carboxylate (L3) ionophores. It was determined that the potentiometric performance characteristics of the sensors prepared with L1 were superior to the others. Based on these properties, the optimum membrane composition was determined as 3.0% ionophore (L1), 64.0% bis(2–ethylhexyl)adipate (DEHA), 32.0% PVC and 1.0% potassium tetrakis (p–chlorophenyl) borate (KTpClPB). The newly developed sensor had a low detection limit of 6.74 × 10−7 mol L−1 over a wide concentration range of 1.0 × 10−1–1.0 × 10−6 mol L−1. Compared with different metal ions, the sensor showed good selectivity to copper(II) ions, had a repeatable, stable and fast response time. The copper(II)–selective sensor could work in a wide range without being affected by pH changes (5.0–9.0). It was used as indicator electrode for the potentiometric titration of copper(II) ions with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and successfully applied for the determination of copper(II) ions content in different water samples.
Pharmacokinetics and tissue residues of albendazole sulphoxide and its metabolites in donkey after intramuscular injection
Authors: Li Zaijian , Qin Xuling , Wang Changfa , Liu Wenqiang
Published: April 2024

Background

Various anti‐parasitic drugs are used to control donkey parasitic diseases. The abuse of donkey drugs leads to the disposition of residues in the edible parts of treated donkeys.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to (1) analyse the pharmacokinetics of ABZSO to serve as reference for the dosage regimen in donkey; and (2) calculate the withdrawal times of the ABZSO in the tissue of the donkey.

Methods

The concentrations of ABZSO and its metabolites in plasma and tissues were determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography with an ultraviolet detector. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed by the programme 3p97.

Results

The plasma concentrations of ABZSO and ABZSO2 concentration–time data in donkey conformed to the absorption one‐compartment open model. The of ABZSO was 0.67 h, whereas the t1/2ke was 12.93 h; the Cmax and the Tp were calculated as 0.58 μg mL−1 and 3.01 h. The Vd/F of ABZSO was estimated to be 10.92 L kg−1; the area under the curve (AUC) was 12.81 μg mL−1 h. The Cmax and AUC values of ABZSO were higher than those of ABZSO2; however, t1/2Ke and Vd/F were lower. Other pharmacokinetics parameters were similar between the two metabolites.

Conclusions

The results revealed that ABZSO2 was the main metabolite of ABZSO in donkey plasma. The concentrations of ABZSO and its chief metabolite (ABZSO2) were detected in liver, kidney, skin and muscle; however, ABZ‐SO2NH2 was only detected in liver and kidney. The results also revealed that the depletion of ABZSO and its metabolite in donkey was longer, especially in skin.
The Sinhala‐Buddhicization of the state and the rise of authoritarianism in Sri Lanka
Authors: Imtiyaz A. R. M.
Published: April 2024

Sri Lanka's postindependence history suggests that continuous efforts by the Sinhala‐Buddhist politicians to reject decentralization created anxiety and distrust among minorities. The state used both Sinhala language and Buddhism to accommodate Sinhala‐Buddhist interests and provide cultural security to Sinhala‐Buddhists who feared that the Sinhala race, Buddhism, and heritage would be threatened with destruction by the Tamil and Muslim separatists and extremists. The state forced the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), which demanded a separate state for North and Eastern Tamils, to silence its guns in May 2009. The military defeat of the LTTE did not produce any democratization of the island. Sinhala‐Buddhist extremist forces turned their eyes on Sri Lankan Muslims, whose elites attached to major political parties supported the war against the LTTE. This study examines the politicization of the Sinhala language and Buddhism in Sri Lanka before and after the civil war between the LTTE and the state dominated by the Sinhala‐Buddhists. It argues that Sinhala political elites willingly took measures to centralize power. The major result of centralization is the birth of the state‐seeking, but authoritarian LTTE. It will also provide some useful analysis to examine post‐war tensions between the Muslims and the Sinhala‐Buddhist extremists. Finally, I discuss some solutions to fight the rising authoritarianism to help Sri Lanka enjoy the fruits of modernization and democracy.
Characterization and evaluation of the anaerobic treatability of a dairy wastewater
Authors: Namal Osman Onder , Altaş Levent
Published: April 2024

In this study, the characteristics, anaerobic treatability, and energy potential of wastewater samples taken from a dairy products industry were investigated. It was determined that the wastewater has a high organic load (COD = 2800 mg O2/L) and a large proportion of this load is biodegradable. The biochemical methane potential (BMP) value of wastewater was measured as 1118.71 ± 122 ml CH4/L. Volatile solids (VS) removal of 67.25 ± 4.98% was achieved during batch tests and the obtained methane yield was calculated as 411.59 ± 22.8 ml CH4/g VS. Peak methane formation rate and lag time of microorganisms were determined as 163.42 ± 3.83 ml CH4/g VS d and 0.584 ± 0.023 d, respectively. Rate constant for the first‐order kinetic model was 0.384 ± 0.072 d−1. The volatile fatty acid (VFA) yield was measured as 155.19 mg COD/g VSS. It was concluded that the wastewater can be treated anaerobically without any inhibition and it has great energy potential.

Practitioner Points

Dairy wastewater has a large organic load and that most of the organics can be easily biodegradable.

Although there are many components considered to be toxic for anaerobic treatment in wastewater, they were found to be very under the inhibition thresholds and did not pose any risk of toxicity.

At a satisfactory level, organic matter removal and methane formation were observed in batch anaerobic tests.

A rapid microbial adaptation was achieved and the system reached equilibrium in a short time without any acid accumulation.

The electrical and caloric energy potentials of the obtained methane gas were calculated as 2.12 and 4.25 kWh/m3, respectively.
Clinical studies in COVID‐related olfactory disorders: Review of an institutional experience
Authors: Tharakan Theresa , Kallogjeri Dorina , Piccirillo Jay F.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To share a single institutional experience with clinical research on COVID‐related olfactory dysfunction (OD).

Data Source/Method

Narrative review of published original data and ongoing clinical trials on COVID‐related OD at Washington University from 2020 to 2023.

Results

There were three new diagnostic‐/patient‐reported outcome measures developed and tested. We report five clinical trials of interventions for COVID‐related olfactory disorders: combined Visual‐Olfactory Training (VOLT) with patient‐preferred scents versus standard olfactory training (VOLT trial), oral gabapentin versus placebo (Gabapentin for the Relief of Acquired Chemosensory Experience trial), nasal theophylline irrigations versus placebo (Smell Changes and Efficacy of Nasal Theophylline trial), stellate ganglion block (single‐arm), and mindfulness‐based stress reduction (MBSR) versus lifestyle intervention (MBSR trial).

Conclusions

Initial intervention trials for COVID‐related OD have shown potential for improving subjective and objective olfactory outcomes. However, there remains no gold standard treatment that definitively outperforms placebo in controlled trials. Therefore, continued investigation of novel therapeutic strategies for COVID‐related OD is necessary to maximize olfactory outcomes for affected patients.
Towards a More Harmonised Asian Approach to Corruption and Illegality in Investment Arbitration
Authors: Teramura Nobumichi , Nottage Luke , Jetin Bruno
Published: April 2024

In parallel with their strong economic growth, Asian jurisdictions have scaled up campaigns against bribery and other illegal misconduct by foreign investors by adopting international anti-corruption frameworks. Nonetheless, corruption remains common in many places and there is also still a lack of consensus on the influence of corruption and illegality over foreign direct investment (FDI), as well as in investor–state arbitration cases. There is also a paucity of literature considering how Asian countries have dealt with such serious misconduct by foreign investors. The foregoing chapters have started to fill the gaps, finding that there are some ‘Asian approaches’ to corruption and bribery in investment arbitrations: some individual jurisdictions have started to address the issues of corruption and illegality through treaty (re)drafting and/or investment disputes. However, a uniform Asian approach towards corruption and illegality in investment arbitration has not yet been established. Thus, this chapter proposes a roadmap for a more harmonised regional approach to corruption and illegality in Asian investment arbitration. It recommends that Asia should (1) establish a forum for all jurisdictions to discuss corruption and other serious misconduct involved in FDI, (2) develop more unified rules on corruption and illegality specifically in Asian investment arbitration and (3) consider creating an independent institution or permanent court to better handle Asian investment disputes—not necessarily limited to allegations of corruption and illegality.
Rigid vacua with Brane Supersymmetry Breaking
Authors: Angelantonj Carlo , Condeescu Cezar , Dudas Emilian , Leone Giorgio
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We construct new string vacua featuring Brane Supersymmetry Breaking, based on T4/ℤN orientifolds with O5+ planes and $$ \overline{\textrm{D}5} $$

D
5

¯

branes. Differently from the original construction, in these vacua the cancellation of twisted R-R charges of D-branes and orientifold planes is achieved in a non-trivial way, and results in rigid configurations with few open-string moduli, which highly restrict the possible deformations of the model. The breaking of supersymmetry and, consequently, the non-vanishing untwisted and twisted NS-NS tadpoles, generates a rich potential both for the dilaton and the blown-up moduli.

We also uncover the stringy origin of the J form entering the gauge kinetic functions in the low-energy effective action, and display its relation to the NS-NS tadpoles for the scalars in the tensor multiplets. As a result, the J form can be consistently identified also when supersymmetry is broken, thus solving an embarrassing puzzle related to its very existence. We also discuss the unitarity constraints for one-dimensional defects in these vacua, where the Kač-Moody algebra for D9 and $$ \overline{\textrm{D}5} $$

D
5

¯

can be realised both in the left-moving and right-moving sectors.
ALP-assisted strong first-order electroweak phase transition and baryogenesis
Authors: Harigaya Keisuke , Wang Isaac R.
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Axion-like particles (ALPs) can be naturally lighter than the electroweak scale. We consider an ALP that couples to the Standard Model Higgs to achieve the strong first-order electroweak phase transition. We discuss the two-field dynamics of the phase transition and the associated computation in detail and identify the viable parameter space. The ALP mass can be from the MeV to GeV scale. Baryon asymmetry can be explained by local baryogenesis without violating the current electron and atom electric dipole moment bound in most of the viable parameter space. The viable parameter space can be probed through Higgs exotic decay, rare kaon decay, the electron and atomic electric dipole moment, and the effective number of neutrinos in the cosmic microwave background in the future. The gravitational-wave signal is too weak to be detected.
Codazzi Tensor Fields in Reductive Homogeneous Spaces
Authors: Marshall Reber James , Terek Ivo
Published: April 2024

We extend the results about left-invariant Codazzi tensor fields on Lie groups equipped with left-invariant Riemannian metrics obtained by d’Atri in 1985 to the setting of reductive homogeneous spaces G/H, where the curvature of the canonical connection of second kind associated with the fixed reductive decomposition $$\mathfrak {g} = \mathfrak {h}\oplus \mathfrak {m}$$

g
=
h
⊕
m

enters the picture. In particular, we show that invariant Codazzi tensor fields on a naturally reductive homogeneous space are parallel.
Hitzeschutz im Fokus der hessischen Betreuungs- und Pflegeaufsicht
Authors: Janson Debora , Grewe Henny Annette , Nickl Johanna , Hannemann Laura
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund und Fragestellung

Hitzeextreme sind mit erheblichen gesundheitlichen Risiken verbunden, insbesondere für vulnerable Gruppen. Um diesen entgegenzuwirken, zielen gesundheitspolitische Forderungen darauf ab, Schutzmaßnahmen verpflichtend an Hitzewarnungen zu koppeln. Derartige Kopplungen existieren in Deutschland in der Regel nicht, eine Ausnahme stellen die seit 2004 umgesetzten Hitzeprüfungen und Hitzeberatungen der hessischen Betreuungs- und Pflegeaufsicht dar.

Ziele dieser Arbeit waren, die Strukturen und Abläufe der hessischen Hitzeprüfungen und Hitzeberatungen zu erfassen und Erkenntnisse für den akuten Hitzeschutz in stationären Gesundheitseinrichtungen abzuleiten.

Methoden

Durchgeführt wurden 14 qualitative, leitfadengestützte Interviews mit Expert*innen der hessischen Betreuungs- und Pflegeaufsicht und mit Leitungen stationärer Einrichtungen der Altenpflege und -betreuung. Die Analyse der Interviewprotokolle erfolgte mit der inhaltlich strukturierenden qualitativen Inhaltsanalyse. Ergänzend wurden Dokumente der Aufsichtsbehörde analysiert.

Ergebnisse

In den ca. 2500 stationären Einrichtungen in Hessen werden jährlich bis zu 370 Prüfungen zum Hitzeschutz durchgeführt. Diese werden entweder in bereits geplante Prüfungen integriert oder gesondert abgenommen, sie fokussieren sich auf präventive und akute Maßnahmen. Hitzeschutz lässt sich prinzipiell gut im Alltag stationärer Einrichtungen einbinden. Hohe Personalfluktuation und Ressourcenmangel stellen Herausforderungen dar.

Diskussion

Prüfungen und Beratungen zum Hitzeschutz sensibilisieren für Hitzerisiken und unterstützen die Etablierung präventiver Maßnahmen. Das hessische System eignet sich zur Orientierung für andere Bundesländer.
Machine condition monitoring for defect detection in fused deposition modelling process: a review
Authors: He Hao , Zhu Zhi , Zhang Yixia , Zhang Zhongpu , Famakinwa Tosin , Yang Richard
Published: April 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing (3DP), refers to manufacturing technologies that build up the desired geometries by adding materials layer by layer. Common meltable and fusible materials such as polymers, metals, and ceramics could be used in 3DP processes. During decades of development, products made by 3DP can now achieve stringent industrial standards at comparable costs compared to those traditionally manufactured. Improving 3DP technologies is required to make them more competitive and acceptable than their counterparts. However, achieving this is challenging since the quality of printing products is still heavily dependent on many cost-driven factors. Inadequate quality, impaired functionality, and reduced service life are three main consequences of 3DP’s failures. To effectively detect and mitigate defects and failures of 3DP products, machine condition monitoring (MCM) technologies have been used to monitor 3D printing processes. With the help of those dedicated algorithms, it could also prevent failures from occurrence by alerting operators to take appropriate actions accordingly. This study systematically reviews the MCM technologies used in a typical 3DP process—the fused deposition modelling (FDM), identifying their advantages and disadvantages. The mentioned MCM technologies include but are not limited to traditional MCM (sensors only), aided with analytical and artificial intelligence (AI) tools. The MCM techniques focus on the defects of the 3DP process. The detection and identification of those defects are investigated. Furthermore, research trends on developing MCM technologies, including challenges and opportunities, are identified for improving the FDM process. This review highlights the developed methodologies of MCM that are applied to FDM processes to detect and identify abnormalities such as defects and failures. The evaluations of defects are elaborated to deepen the comprehension of the essence of the defects, including their cause, severity, and effect. A detailed deliberation about identifying the critical components for the successful application of 3DP MCM systems was done. Finally, this review indicates the technical barriers that need to be overcome to enhance the performance of monitoring, detection, and prediction by MCM and associated technologies.
Risiko- und Komplikationsprofil orthogeriatrischer Patienten bei elektivem Hüft- und Kniegelenkersatz
Authors: Kappenschneider Tobias , Maderbacher Günther , Meyer Matthias , Pagano Stefano , Reinhard Jan , Michalk Katrin , Grifka Joachim , Holzapfel Dominik Emanuel
Published: April 2024

Hintergrund

Die Versorgung geriatrischer Patienten bei elektiven orthopädischen Eingriffen gewinnt aufgrund der demografischen Entwicklung zunehmend an Bedeutung. Im Vergleich zur Alterstraumatologie existieren hierbei in Deutschland jedoch noch keine etablierten orthogeriatrischen Versorgungsmodelle und daher kaum wissenschaftliche Daten. Ziel dieser Studie war die Darstellung des Risiko- und Komplikationsprofils bei älteren Patienten mit elektivem Hüft- und Kniegelenkersatz.

Methodik

Im Rahmen einer prospektiven Studie wurden Daten orthogeriatrischer Patienten mit Indikation zur elektiven Hüft- und Knietotalendoprothese nach Erfüllung definierter Ein- und Ausschlusskriterien im Zeitraum zwischen Januar 2021 und August 2023 in der Orthopädie eines deutschen Universitätsklinikums zur deskriptiven Analyse eines Risiko- und Komplikationsprofils erhoben. Neben einer prä- und perioperativen Datenanalyse erfolgten Nachbeobachtungen 4 bis 6 Wochen und 3 Monate postoperativ.

Ergebnisse

Das operative Risikoprofil des untersuchten Patientenguts zeichnete sich durch hohes Alter (78,4 ± 4,8 Jahre), Prä‑/Adipositas (76 %), Multimorbidität (7,4 ± 3,1 Komorbiditäten), Polypharmazie (7,5 ± 3,8 Präparate), Immobilität (Short Physical Performance Battery 7,1 ± 2,6), Pre‑/Frailty (87 %), häufige Antikoagulation (22 %) und hohe Anzahl an potenziell inadäquater Medikation (64 %) aus. Komplikationsereignisse traten v. a. innerhalb der ersten 7 Tage postoperativ auf. Etwa 90 % der Ereignisse innerhalb dieses Erfassungszeitraumes beliefen sich auf „Minor“-Komplikationen. Im weiteren Verlauf sank die Gesamtkomplikationsrate deutlich.

Schlussfolgerung

Aufgrund des hohen Risiko- und Komplikationsprofils sollte zukünftig der routinemäßige Einsatz orthogeriatrischer Co-Management-Modelle bei elektiven orthopädischen Eingriffen geprüft werden.

Graphic abstract
Atrophic changes in thyroid tumors are strong indicators of underlying DICER1 mutations: a bi-institutional genotype–phenotype correlation study
Authors: Condello Vincenzo , Roberts James W. , Stenman Adam , Larsson Catharina , Viswanathan Kartik , Juhlin C. Christofer
Published: April 2024

Somatic and biallelic DICER1 mutations are reported in subsets of thyroid tumors, supporting the role of this gene in thyroid tumor development. As recent studies have brought attention to macrofollicular patterns, atrophic changes, and papillary structures as being associated with DICER1 mutations, we sought to explore these observations in a bi-institutional cohort. A total of 61 thyroid lesions (54 tumors and 7 cases of thyroid follicular nodular disease; TFND), including 26 DICER1 mutated and 35 DICER1 wildtype controls were subjected to histological re-investigation and clinical follow-up. DICER1-mutated lesions showed a statistically significant association with younger age at surgery (29.2 ± 12.5 versus 51.3 ± 18.8, p = 0.0001), a predominant macrofollicular growth pattern (20/26 mutated cases versus 18/35 wildtype; p = 0.01) and atrophic changes (20/26 mutated cases versus 2/35 wildtype; p = 0.0001). Similar results were obtained when excluding TFND cases. We also present clinical and histological triaging criteria for DICER1 sequencing of thyroid lesions, which led to the identification of DICER1 variants in 16 out of 26 cases (62%) when followed. Among these, 3 out of 12 cases with available data were found to carry a constitutional DICER1 mutation. This observation suggests that the majority of DICER1 mutations are somatic—however implies that sequencing of constitutional tissues could be clinically motivated. We conclude that DICER1 mutations are amassed in younger patients with macrofollicular-patterned tumors and, most strikingly, atrophic changes. Given the rate of constitutional involvement, our findings could be of clinical value, allowing the pathologist to triage cases for genetic testing based on histological findings.
Taxonomic implications of normal and abnormal stomatal complexes in Indigofera L. (Indigofereae, Faboideae, Fabaceae)
Authors: Badry Mohamed O. , Osman Ahmed K. , Aboulela Mostafa , Gafar Shereen , Nour Iman H.
Published: April 2024

This study is the first to report the foliar and stem epidermal micro-morphology of 13 taxa ofIndigoferaL. (Fabaceae) using light (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The micro-morphological characteristics studied here are related to the epidermal cell shape, size, frequency, anticlinal wall pattern, and stomatal complex types, size, position, frequency, and index. The study revealed 19 major normal stomatal types with eight subtypes and seven major abnormal stomatal types with 13 subtypes. The stomatal index was lower on the abaxial leaf surface than on the adaxial surface. Notably, the adaxial surface ofI. hochstetterihad the highest stomatal index (27.46%), while the abaxial surface ofI. oblongifoliahad the lowest (9.95%). The adaxial surface ofI. hochstetterialso displayed the highest average stomatal frequency (38.67), while the adaxial surface ofI. spinosahad the lowest average frequency (9.37). SEM analysis revealed that most leaves had slightly sunken to sunken stomata, while stem stomata were positioned at the same level as epidermal cells in most taxa. Indigofera's foliar and stem epidermal anatomy recommends their application as baseline data coupled with other taxonomic data for the delimitation and differentiation of closely related taxa in the genus. The study provides a comprehensive description, illustrations, images, and micrographs of the stomatal types, as well as a taxonomic key for distinguishing the studied taxa ofIndigofera.
Left Ventricular Segmentation, Warping, and Myocardial Registration for Automated Strain Measurement
Authors: Huang Kuan-Chih , Lin Donna Shu-Han , Jeng Geng-Shi , Lin Ting-Tse , Lin Lian-Yu , Lee Chih-Kuo , Lin Lung-Chun
Published: April 2024

The left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) is a crucial prognostic indicator. However, inconsistencies in measurements due to the speckle tracking algorithm and manual adjustments have hindered its standardization and democratization. To solve this issue, we proposed a fully automated strain measurement by artificial intelligence-assisted LV segmentation contours. The LV segmentation model was trained from echocardiograms of 368 adults (11,125 frames). We compared the registration-like effects of dynamic time warping (DTW) with speckle tracking on a synthetic echocardiographic dataset in experiment-1. In experiment-2, we enrolled 80 patients to compare the DTW method with commercially available software. In experiment-3, we combined the segmentation model and DTW method to create the artificial intelligence (AI)-DTW method, which was then tested on 40 patients with general LV morphology, 20 with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCMP), and 20 with transthyretin-associated cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA), 20 with severe aortic stenosis (AS), and 20 with severe mitral regurgitation (MR). Experiments-1 and -2 revealed that the DTW method is consistent with dedicated software. In experiment-3, the AI-DTW strain method showed comparable results for general LV morphology (bias − 0.137 ± 0.398%), DCMP (− 0.397 ± 0.607%), ATTR-CA (0.095 ± 0.581%), AS (0.334 ± 0.358%), and MR (0.237 ± 0.490%). Moreover, the strain curves showed a high correlation in their characteristics, with R-squared values of 0.8879–0.9452 for those LV morphology in experiment-3. Measuring LVGLS through dynamic warping of segmentation contour is a feasible method compared to traditional tracking techniques. This approach has the potential to decrease the need for manual demarcation and make LVGLS measurements more efficient and user-friendly for daily practice.
Do astigmatid teeth matter: a tribological review of cheliceral chelae in co-occuring mites from UK beehives
Authors: Bowman Clive E.
Published: April 2024

The dentition of the chelal moveable digit in cohabiting astigmatids from UK beehives (i.e., Carpoglyphus lactis (Linnaeus), Glycyphagus domesticus (DeGeer), and Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank)) is characterised for the first time using quantitative tribological measures within a 2D mechanical model. The trophic function of astigmatid chelae are reviewed in terms of macroscopic tools used by humans including hooking devices, pliers, shears, rasps and saws. Comparisons to oribatid claws and isopod dactyli are made. The overall pattern of the moveable digit form of T. putrescentiae is not just a uniformly shrunken/swollen version between the other two taxa at either the macro- or micro-scale. Mastication surface macro-roughness values are in the range of international Roughness Grade Numbers N5–N6. The moveable digit of C. lactis has low rugosity values compared to the glycyphagid and acarid (which are topographically more similar and match that roughness typical of some coral reef surfaces). C. lactis has the most plesiomorphic moveable digit form. The mastication surface of all three species as a chewing tool is distinctly ornamented despite the moveable digit of C. lactis looking like a bar-like beam. The latter has more opportunities to be a multifunctional tool behaviourally than the other two species. Little evidence of any differences in the ‘spikiness’ of any ‘toothiness’ is found. Some differences with laboratory cultured specimens are found in C. lactis and possibly T. putrescentiae suggesting where selection on the digit may be able to occur. The chelal surface of T. putrescentiae has been deformed morphologically during evolution the most, that of C. lactis the least. Repeated localised surface differentiation is a feature of the moveable digit in G. domesticus compared to the likely more concerted changes over certain nearby locations in T. putrescentiae. An impactful chelal teeth design is present in G. domesticus but this is more equivocal in T. putrescentiae. Pockets within the mastication surface of the glycyphagid (and to some extent for the acarid) may produce foodstuff crunch forces of the scale of the chelal tips of oribatids. The moveable digit dentition of G. domesticus is adapted to shred foodstuff (like a ripsaw) more than that of the grazing/shearing dentition of T. putrescentiae. The collecting ‘picker‘ design of C. lactis posterior teeth matches the size of Bettsia alvei hyphae which attacks hive-stored pollen. Detritus accumulated in chelal digit gullets through a sawing action matches the smallest observed ingested material. The dentition of C. lactis should produce less friction when moving through food material than G. domesticus. C. lactis is the most hypocarnivorous and may ‘skim’ through fluids when feeding. Astigmatid teeth do matter. The three commensal species can avoid direct competition. Future work is proposed in detail.
Genomic patterns of native palms from the Leeward Antilles confirm single-island endemism and guide conservation priorities
Authors: Clugston James A. R. , Coolen Quirijn , Houtepen Erik , Proosdij André S. J. van , Grinage Ayress D. , Griffith M. Patrick
Published: April 2024

Systematic study of the palm (Arecaceae) flora from the Leeward Antilles marked both Sabal antillensis and Sabal lougheediana as endemic to Curaçao and Bonaire respectively. Although both species are emergent, obvious and charismatic elements of the Antillean flora, they were only described within the last decade. Sabal lougheediana is in demographic crisis as a result of constant ungulate pressure prohibiting seedling establishment, while S. antillensis is thriving as a result of careful management. Given the surprisingly recent discovery of these two species, and the severity of the conservation concern, genomic data can help inform whether these taxa are in fact well-circumscribed species, and help to guide further conservation actions. To investigate genomic diversity, we employed RADSeq data from samples throughout the range of both species. Results show significant genetic distance and fixation between the two taxa as currently circumscribed, as well as reduced genetic diversity and increased inbreeding in both species. Multivariate analysis of genetic distance and Bayesian clustering analysis both show clear and significant separation of the two taxa. Parallel assay of ex situ collections informs how future development of germplasm reserves can help support conservation of both species. We provide recommendations to help conserve these two unique and distinct species.
Imperialism and social movement unionism in South African responses to the Just Transition
Authors: McNamara Thomas
Published: April 2024

In November 2021, South Africa signed the first international Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). This unlocked 8.5 billion USD in donor funding (primarily loans) to decarbonise its economy. The processes and substance of this decarbonisation have been criticised by unions and by civil society. This article traces the stakeholder consultation process through which civil society encouraged marginal improvements while broadly legitimising the JETP, and it details the causes and implications of South African unions’ decreased engagement with the Just Transition. The article argues that the specifics of civil society’s engagement with multistakeholder consultations, and organised labour’s disengagement, work towards legitimising a donor- and market-led transition. In partially explaining why a powerful civil society and the labour movement have not demanded more radical change, the article highlights tensions between the ‘professional class’ that dominates responses to climate change and a workers’ movement where political power is deeply tied to identarian mobilisation.
Design of a web based career counselling information system: Türkiye case
Authors: Atay Salim , Müftüoğlu Cennet Terzi , Şahin Muhittin , Ceylan Savaş
Published: April 2024

This research presents the design of Career Counselling Information System (CCIS), a web-based career counselling information system. The research aims to reveal a design framework for a web-based career information system integrated with universities' labour market performance to support career guidance processes. This research is structured as a design-based research approach. This research presents the results of the first cycle of design-based research. The research follows a five-step process: (1) analysis, (2) design, (3) development, (4) implementation, and (5) evaluation. The analysis phase identifies indicators, universities/departments, and labour market profiles. The design phase configures the system architecture. The development phase creates the platform. A pilot study involved 30 career counsellors after CCIS development. The system was examined with 14884 career counsellors during implementation. Feedback from 40 career counsellors guided improvements. CCIS digitally transforms Türkiye's universities and departments labour market performance profiles. Career counsellors highlight CCIS indicators as essential for career decisions. The research's performance indicators and systems are expected to enrich career guidance, labour market information, and career information system literature.
Characterization of potential spermatogonia biomarker genes in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla)
Authors: Blanes-García Marta , Marinović Zoran , Herranz-Jusdado Juan Germán , Xie Xuan , Ferrão Leonor , Gallego Victor , Pérez Luz , Baloch Abdul Rasheed , Horváth Ákos , Pšenička Martin , Asturiano Juan F. , Morini Marina
Published: April 2024

Identification of specific molecular markers for spermatogonial stem cells in teleost is crucial for enhancing the efficacy of reproductive biotechnologies in aquaculture, such as transplantation and surrogate production in fishes. Since it is not yet possible to distinguish spermatogonial stem cells of European eel (Anguilla anguilla) using specific molecular markers, we isolated spermatogonial cells from immature European eels to find these potential markers. We attempted this by studying three candidate genes: vasa, nanos2, and dnd1. Two vasa (vasa1 and vasa2) genes, nanos2, and dnd1 were identified, characterized, and studied in the muscle, testis, and isolated spermatogonia. Our results showed that vasa1 and vasa2 had the highest levels of expression when measured by qPCR. In situ hybridization and immunochemistry assays showed that the four genes were localized explicitly in type A spermatogonia. However, vasa1 and vasa2 exhibited stronger signals in the immature testicular tissue than the other two potential markers. According to this, vasa1 and vasa2 were found to be the most effective markers for spermatogonial cells in the European eel.
Facing the cliff-edge: care-experienced graduates’ access to and progression through taught postgraduate study in the United Kingdom
Authors: Baker Zoe
Published: April 2024

Over the past 15 years, a growing body of research into the issues care-experienced people face when accessing higher education (HE) has led to welcome support developments to attempt to redress inequalities. However, such support ceases upon completion of undergraduate degrees. Without continued support, constraints in accessing taught postgraduate study can lead to limitations in future careers, earning potential, and future stability for care-experienced people. Until now, there have been no insights into why care-experienced people wish to study at the postgraduate level, as well as whether and how they may be constrained or enabled by their care backgrounds when doing so. Using data from a qualitative longitudinal study of care-experienced graduates’ transitions out of HE, the paper illustrates how this ‘undergraduate cliff edge’ in support constrains the feasibility of progressing into and through taught postgraduate studies. The absence of often taken-for-granted support, such as a family home, means that entering postgraduate studies and facing this cliff edge is risky and perpetuates the sense of instability felt in childhood. The paper concludes by proposing recommendations for policy and practice to enable the creation of equitable opportunities to reduce risk for this group to comfortably study at the postgraduate level.
Utilization of a High-Pressure Vibrating Tube Densimeter for Liquids at Temperatures Down to 100 K
Authors: von Preetzmann Nils , Zipplies Daniel , Span Roland , Richter Markus
Published: April 2024

A high-pressure vibrating tube densimeter, specified by the manufacturer for temperatures from (263 to 473) K at pressures up to 140 MPa, was tested at temperatures down to 100 K and from vacuum to pressures up to 10 MPa. To verify the functionality and overall performance under these conditions, the densimeter was calibrated with measurements under vacuum as well as methane and propane as reference fluids. The calibration range is T = (120 to 200) K at pressures from (2.0 to 10.0) MPa. To evaluate the recorded data, two established calibration models were used to describe the dependence of the densimeter's oscillation period on the investigated reference fluids' temperature, pressure, and density. The experiments showed that the vibrating tube densimeter is operational even at temperatures down to 100 K, but exhibits a shift of its vacuum resonance when subjected to thermal cycling at temperatures below 180 K. Accordingly, the calibration models were modified with respect to how the vacuum resonance is considered. Then, the determined calibration parameters reproduce the densities of the reference fluids within ± 0.10 kg·m−3 for the calibration model that performed better for the present study. Measurements on pure ethane and argon validate the calibration of the densimeter. Here, the densities are within (− 0.47 to 0.16) kg·m−3 of values calculated with the respective reference equation of state. The estimated combined expanded uncertainty (k = 2) in density for the validation measurements ranges from (0.52 to 1.13) kg·m−3 or is less than 0.1 % for liquid densities.
Electrical characterization of Ag/MoO3−x/p-Si Schottky diodes based on MoO3−x synthesized via sol–gel method: an investigation on frequency and voltage dependence
Authors: Mutlu Adem , Tozlu Cem
Published: April 2024

MoO3−x is a commonly used buffer layer in organic based optoelectronic devices to align energy level between active semiconductor and metal layer. The purpose of this study is to show the effects of the MoO3−x interlayer by comparing with a reference device without MoO3−x interlayer. To evaluate the effect of MoO3−x interlayer synthesized by sol–gel method, basic important parameters such as ideality factor (n), barrier height ($$\varnothing$$
∅
B), interface states (Nss) and series resistance (Rs) of Ag/MoO3−x/p-Si and Ag/p-Si Schottky diodes were calculated by electrical characterization methods. The current–voltage (I–V) measurements show that the ideality factor for the p-Si/Ag reference diode was decreased from 2.4 to 1.9 while rectification factor increasing 44.6 times using MoO3−x interlayer, and frequency–dependent measurements (C–V–f, G–V–f) were carried out to elucidate this deviation at room temperature for MoO3−x-based diode. From the XPS analysis, it was seen that Mo+6 and Mo+5 oxidation states were intense on the surface of the MoO3−x film, and the Mo+4 oxidation state increased as it went into the bulk. The changes in Rs and Nss due to the energy levels formed by the Mo+6 and Mo+5 oxidation steps at the interface are depicted. In addition, the energy density distribution profile of Nss was obtained using the I–V characteristics for various forward bias voltages range from 2.1 × 1012 to 2.5 × 1012 eV−1 cm−2. Based on the experimental results, the sol–gel synthesized MoO3−x thin film exhibits favorable rectification characteristics and holds promise for application as a Schottky diode.
Reading Difficulties in Individuals with Homonymous Visual Field Defects: A Systematic Review of Reported Interventions
Authors: Tol S. , de Haan G. A. , Postuma E. M. J. L. , Jansen J. L. , Heutink J.
Published: April 2024

Reading difficulties are amongst the most commonly reported problems in individuals with homonymous visual field defects (HVFDs). To be able to provide guidance for healthcare professionals considering offering reading training, researchers in this field and interested individuals with HVFDs, this systematic review aims to (1) provide an overview of the contextual and intervention characteristics of all published HVFD interventions and (2) generate insights into the different reading outcome measures that these studies adopted. A search on PsycINFO, MEDLINE and Web of Science was conducted up to February 2, 2023. All intervention studies for HVFD in which reading was measured were included. Data was collected about the intervention type, session duration, number of sessions, the intensity, duration, circumstance of the interventions, country in which the intervention was studied and reading measures. Sixty records are included, describing 70 interventions in total of which 21 are specifically reading interventions. Overall, adjusted saccadic behaviour interventions occur most in the literature. A wide range within all intervention characteristics was observed. Forty-nine records reported task-performance reading measures, and 33 records reported self-reported reading measures. The majority of task-performance measures are based on self-developed paragraph reading tasks with a time-based outcome measure (e.g. words per minute). Future research could benefit from making use of validated reading tests, approaching the measurement of reading mixed-methods and providing participants the possibility to supply outcomes relevant to them.
Transparency in Cognitive Training Meta-analyses: A Meta-review
Authors: Sandoval-Lentisco Alejandro , López-Nicolás Rubén , Tortajada Miriam , López-López José Antonio , Sánchez-Meca Julio
Published: April 2024

Meta-analyses often present flexibility regarding their inclusion criteria, outcomes of interest, statistical analyses, and assessments of the primary studies. For this reason, it is necessary to transparently report all the information that could impact the results. In this meta-review, we aimed to assess the transparency of meta-analyses that examined the benefits of cognitive training, given the ongoing controversy that exists in this field. Ninety-seven meta-analytic reviews were included, which examined a wide range of populations with different clinical conditions and ages. Regarding the reporting, information about the search of the studies, screening procedure, or data collection was detailed by most reviews. However, authors usually failed to report other aspects such as the specific meta-analytic parameters, the formula used to compute the effect sizes, or the data from primary studies that were used to compute the effect sizes. Although some of these practices have improved over the years, others remained the same. Moreover, examining the eligibility criteria of the reviews revealed a great heterogeneity in aspects such as the training duration, age cut-offs, or study designs that were considered. Preregistered meta-analyses often specified poorly how they would deal with the multiplicity of data or assess publication bias in their protocols, and some contained non-disclosed deviations in their eligibility criteria or outcomes of interests. The findings shown here, although they do not question the benefits of cognitive training, illustrate important aspects that future reviews must consider.
A new experimental device for germinating seeds under controlled soil water potentials, a step beyond PEG
Authors: Moret-Fernández D. , Tormo J. , López M. V. , Cirujeda A. , Bochet E.
Published: April 2024

Background and aims

Germination as a function of soil water potential (h) is modelled using polyethylene glycol (PEG). But, PEG would not consider soil properties. Our objective is to show the limitations of PEG to model germination in real soils. Using a new device, the tension germinator (TG), we show the interaction between soil type, h and seed characteristics on seed germination.

Methods

TG (A Mariotte reservoir that supplies water at constant h to a porous substrate on which seeds are deposited). Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) and vetch (Vicia sativa L.) seeds were placed on TG with loam (TG-loam) and sand (TG-sand), and h of 0, -0.002, -0.006 MPa. Then, the imbibition curves were monitored. PEG experiments (0 to -2.5 MPa) were performed to estimate the critical h, hPEG, or h from which the imbibition curve decreases compared with that at 0 MPa. PEG curves for 0 > h > -0.01 MPa were compared with TG.

Results

PEG and TG curves were not different at 0 MPa. hPEG for barley and vetch was within [0, -0.01] MPa. While no differences were observed between PEG at [0, -0.01] MPa and TG-loam curves, TG-sand curves at -0.002 and -0.006 MPa were different to those of PEG. Conversely to PEG at -0.01 MPa, no imbibition was observed in TG-sand (-0.006 MPa). A negligible influence of h in TG-loam was observed.

Conclusions

PEG is not adequate to describe seed germination in soil. But the TG allows monitoring seed germination in real soils and controlled h.
Nowhere to Launch? County-Level Correlates of Home-Leaving and Home-Returning
Authors: Warner Cody , Sharp Gregory
Published: April 2024

Coresidence with parents is now the most common living arrangement among young adults (ages 18–29) in the United States. For many, coresidence comes after first leaving home and living in an independent household. Recent shifts in these residential transitions has spurred renewed research in this area, with a focus on contemporaneous young adult characteristics, individual well-being, and the family context. Largely overlooked in this research is a consideration of the geographic context where young adults make home-leaving and home-returning decisions. Drawing on residential mobility theory and research that emphasizes features of local housing and labor markets, the present study explores if county-level characteristics are associated with the likelihood of either leaving or returning to the parental home. Using data from the 1997 cohort of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, results indicate that youth are less likely to leave home, and more likely to return to it, if they live in areas with higher rental costs. Housing market characteristics also appear to be more important for home-leaving and home-returning for youth who stay in the same county, as opposed to launching to different counties. Findings thus demonstrate that contextual features should be emphasized alongside individual and family features as pathways to independent living.