bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis desde de la Perspectiva de Familia de la Ley 30364 para prevenir la violencia
Authors: Torres Flor Analucía , Garcia-Zavala Gabriela , Arela-Bobadilla Ronal Wilfredo , Castro Rodolfo J. , Cerellino Cernades Lila
Published: August 2023

La violencia intrafamiliar es reconocida como un importante problema de salud pública, cuya complejidad puede ser abordada desde diferentes perspectivas. La perspectiva de familia es un enfoque que en lugar de considerar al individuo de manera aislada; reconoce la importancia de sus relaciones y responsabilidades familiares. Por ello, la finalidad de este estudio es identificar si la perspectiva en base a la cual se ha promulgado la ley 30364, incorpora la perspectiva de familia. La presente investigación sigue un diseño mixto de tipo explicativo secuencial. Para la parte cuantitativa, se utilizó como instrumento la Guía para el Análisis de la Perspectiva de Familia en las Políticas Públicas versión 1.1 y la muestra estuvo conformada por 9 expertos. Para la parte cualitativa, se utilizó como instrumento una entrevista semiestructurada y se tuvo la participación de 3 expertos. Los principales resultados cuantitativos arrojan que ningún criterio considerado en la guía obtiene un puntaje mayor a la mitad, 50 puntos del máximo posible. Siendo el mayor puntaje de calificación de una media de 44.4 y el menor de 11.1; estos resultados, fueron en su mayoría corroborados a través del análisis cualitativo de categorías, cuyos principales hallazgos se desarrollan en el apartado correspondiente. Los resultados señalan, que la ley evaluada no considera los pilares conceptuales de la perspectiva de familia.
Experiencia de fusión gastronómica entre Chile y Haití; una forma de integración cultural con la comunidad haitiana residente en Chile
Authors: Iglesias-Véjar Lorena , Cáceres Paola , Llanos Rivera Nathalie , Basfi-Fer Obregón Karen
Published: August 2023

El fenómeno migratorio ha impactado fuertemente a Chile en los últimos años, siendo la comunidad haitiana una de las poblaciones inmigrantes de mayor crecimiento. Las familias haitianas que llegan al país no sólo deben enfrentarse a nuevas costumbres y estilos de vida, sino también deben franquear la barrera idiomática. Su situación laboral y de vida es precaria, lo que podría explicar una mayor prevalencia de malnutrición en niños y niñas. Como una forma de contribuir a mejorar la calidad de su alimentación, y enel marco de la adjudicación de fondos de extensión de la Facultad, se llevó a cabo un programa de integración culinaria entre preparaciones habituales de Chile y Haití. Este programa se desarrolló en conjunto con mujeres haitianas residentes en la comuna Pedro Aguirre Cerda de Santiago, iniciando con un diagnóstico participativo que permitió adecuar la planificación del proyecto. Luego se llevaron a cabo los talleres de cocina propiamente tal, donde se elaboraron en conjunto preparaciones típicas y/o habituales de Haití y de Chile, aprovechando dicha instancia para resaltar los beneficios nutricionales de los alimentos, además de promover técnicas culinarias saludables, medidas de prevención de riesgos y de higiene en la manipulación de alimentos. Finalmente, un subgrupo de mujeres haitianas participó en la creación de platos “fusión”, mezcla de un plato haitiano y otro chileno, manteniendo lo mejor de cada uno de acuerdo con aspectos nutricionales, organolépticos y culturales. Las recetas resultantes fueron plasmadas en un recetario, escrito en español y creole y en videos con el paso a paso para su preparación. Se espera que estos nuevos platos sean adoptados por las familias haitianas al coexistir elementos de su propia cultura gastronómica, matizados con alimentos, técnicas y formas de preparación chilenas, siendo atractivos, nutritivos y con pertinencia cultural.
Tres años de producción de hojarasca del manglar y su relación con las condiciones ambientales en la Laguna Mecoacán, Golfo de México
Authors: Torres V. Jony R. , Barba-Macías Everardo , Sánchez Alberto J.
Published: August 2023

El ecosistema de manglar es diverso y la composición de sus especies varía longitudinalmente en todo el mundo, por ello, la productividad primaria en base a la caída de hojarasca ha sido estudiada ampliamente. En el presente estudio se evaluó la producción de hojarasca durante tres años para identificar patrones en relación a físico químicos del agua y sedimento. La caída de hojarasca se midió por medio de trampas, además, se midieron los físicos químicos (salinidad, potencial redox, conductividad, temperatura y pH) de agua superficial, intersticial y subterránea, y de sedimentos del manglar (Textura, pH, materia orgánica, densidad aparente y contenido de humedad). Los principales resultados mostraron que la producción de hojarasca registró baja variación interanual, con 5.15 ton•ha-1•año-1 el primer año (2014-2015), el segundo año (2015-2016) fue de 5.1 ton•ha-1•año-1 y el tercer año (2016-2017) registró una producción menor con 4.93 ton•ha-1•año-1, con alta influencia de los niveles de salinidad, patrón de inundación y las precipitaciones, además el tipo de sustratos finos (arcillas) mantienen las condiciones de retención de humedad y materia orgánica, que permiten al manglar un mayor reciclamiento de nutrientes in situ que se refleja en mayor productividad primaria. Así mismo, la respuesta negativa en la producción de hojarasca del manglar al aumento de la salinidad, enfatiza la necesidad de documentar dichos procesos ante escenarios de cambio climático global.
Association between Admission Blood Glucose Levels and Clinical Outcomes among Diabetic Adults Admitted to a Tertiary Care Hospital in Chennai, India: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Saravanan Dineshkumar , Avudaiappan Seethalakshmi
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Admission blood glucose levels have an impact on hospitalisation and Length Of Stay (LOS). Uncontrolled blood glucose levels have been found to affect patients’ outcomes. Elevation of the initial blood glucose level during critical diagnosis was identified as an independent risk factor for in-hospital mortality in critical cases. Aim: To examine the association between admission blood glucose levels and clinical outcomes in adult diabetic patients. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Data were collected between July 1, 2021, and August 31, 2021, using non-probability convenience sampling from 522 records of adult diabetic patients admitted between January 2019 and March 2020. Capillary random blood glucose levels at the time of admission and their effects on LOS, both in the hospital and Intensive Care Unit (ICU), readmission, and mortality data were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test. Results: Analysis of the records of 522 adult diabetic patients revealed that the mean and standard deviation (SD) of admission Capillary Blood Glucose (CBG) level were 177.46±49.42 mg/ dL, and the mean LOS in the hospital was 4.54±3.89 days. It was found that 340 (65.1%) patients had an admission duration of ≤4 days. There was a statistically significant association between admission blood glucose levels and LOS in the hospital (p-value=0.01), LOS in the ICU (p-value=0.008), readmission to the hospital (p-value=0.001), and mortality rate (p-value=0.0001). Conclusion: The study demonstrates that admission blood glucose levels are associated with the clinical outcomes of patients. These findings substantiate the need for maintaining normal glycemic levels through patient education and a proactive team approach to improve patient outcomes.
Anti-hyperglycemic Effect of the Aqueous Extract of Carapa procera on Rats Submitted to a High-calorie Diet
Authors: Raoul Brahima kouame Koffi , Delor Kamenan Koua Christ , Bognan Ackah Jacques Auguste Alfred
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Remains today a metabolic disease that is gaining ground. It is linked to some health complications that lead to disastrous consequences in terms of loss of human life. It is necessary to take measures to stem this pathology. So, a plant species has been tested for its effect on hyperglycemia indicator of diabetes.

Aim: Evaluate the anthyperglycemia effect of the aqueous extract of carapa procera bark.

Methodology: The aqueous extract of the bark of Carapa procera was tested on rats subjected to a high-calorie diet and the biochemical parameters were evaluated. In addition, a phytochemical characterization was carried out.

Results: The high-calorie diet caused an increase in weight as well as an increase of glycemia. The aqueous extract of Carapa procera stabilized the glycemia.

Conclusion: Aqueous extract of Carapa procera has an antihyperglycemic activity.
Comparative Study of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Cultivation Through Organic and Conventional Farming
Authors: Lanki A. D. , Onwu A. C. , Mbashak R. , Irande D.
Published: August 2023

As organic farming gains popularity worldwide, it is crucial to investigate the potential benefits of using poultry manure as an organic fertilizer source. This study aimed to assess the comparative performance of tomato cultivation under organic and conventional farming practices, with a specific focus on the effects of varying rates of poultry manure applications. The research was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of College of Agriculture Science and Technology Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. This was conducted during the 2021 cropping season (April - June) with four levels of poultry manure. Three (3) application rate of poultry manure (5.0 tha-1, 8.0 tha-1, and 11 tha-1) was used to compare with the control/check with no application of poultry manure, all replicated four times in a randomized complete block design. The objective of this research was to determine the impact of different rates of poultry manure application on tomato growth and yield potentials. After a thorough evaluation of the experimental plots, it was found that the treatment with 11tha-1 of poultry manure demonstrated superior performance compared to the other treatment levels. The tomatoes grown with this application rate exhibited significantly higher yields and improved plant vigor, as confirmed by the recorded data. The study's findings provide valuable insights for local farmers, as this research supports the use of 11 tha-1 poultry manure application as an effective strategy to enhance tomato cultivation and maximize yield potential. The necessity of conducting this research arises from the need to optimize tomato cultivation practices and address the growing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly farming methods. The study also provides evidence that the application of 11 tha-1 poultry manure significantly improves tomato cultivation outcomes. The results obtained underline the relevance of optimizing nutrient management practices in organic and conventional farming systems, fostering enhanced yield potential, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices for future food security.
Rainfall and Temperature Trend Analysis Using Mann-Kendall and Sen’s Slope Estimator Test in Kharun Watershed, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Gupta Lov Kumar , Verma Shruti
Published: August 2023

Temperature and rainfall are important meteorological variables in connection with changes in the climate. Analyzing rainfall temperature changes is a necessary first step in determining how climate change will affect us. Evaluating how climate change would affect the accessibility of water and the environment. The main focus of the current study is on the shifting patterns of rainfall and temperature in the Kharun Watershed, Chhattisgarh. The Mann-Kendall (MK) test and Sen's slope (SS) method are used in this study to examine trends in seasonal and yearly rainfall, and minimum and maximum temperatures (Tmin and Tmax). The research area contained five stations measuring temperature and rainfall. Three seasons—kharif, rabi, and zaid were taken into consideration for the seasonal and yearly trend study. The results of the trend test for precipitation showed an overall upward trend for all five stations (Pindrawan, Raipur, Patan, Dhamtari, and Gurur) and every season. The yearly trend of precipitation likewise exhibits an upward trend throughout the year. Except the Kharif season at Pindrawan, Raipur, and Patan stations, the minimum temperature for all five stations indicates declining trends for all seasons. In all five stations, the annual trend of the minimum temperature over the 35 years had exhibited a downward trend. All five stations' maximum temperatures exhibit rising patterns throughout the year. In all five stations, the annual trend of maximum temperature over the 35 years showed an upward trend.
Cardiovascular Effect of the Fermented Seeds of Parkia biglobosa on Rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus
Authors: Apedjinou Komlavi Mawuto Benjamin , Sanvee Sabrina Chris Janiba , Dossou-Yovo Komla Mawubédjro , Assih Mindede , Badjabaissi Essotolom , Diallo Aboudoulatif , Bakoma Batomayena
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: Fermented seeds of Parkia biglobosa or “African mustard” are widely consumed in Togo. These fermented seeds are known to have a protective effect against the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the effect of the decoction of fermented seeds on cardiovascular system.

Methods: The fermented seeds have been subjected to physicochemical tests. A decoction was prepared and underwent qualitative and quantitative phytochemical tests. The decoction was also administered intravenously to rabbits at cumulative doses (17.5 mg / kg; 35 mg / kg; 70 mg / kg and 140 mg / kg) to assess the effect of Parkia biglobosa fermented seeds on the cardiovascular system. Parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, and electrocardiogram (ECG) were then recorded.

Results: The fermented seeds had a water content of 8.1 ± 0.2%, the total ash content was 21 ± 0.4% and the content of ash insoluble in hydrochloric acid of 2.3 ± 0.1%. The extract contained alkaloids, cardiac glycosides (with a content of 13.9 ± 0.2 µg equivalent of Digoxin / mg of extract) and saponins. The decoction causes a dose-dependent hypotension and bradycardia at 140mg / kg. The ECG shows a decrease of the amplitude of QRS complex at doses of 70 mg / kg and 140 mg / kg.

Conclusion: The decoction has a dose-dependent hypotensive effect probably linked to its cardiotonic glycosides.
Characterization and Evaluation of Some Genotypes of Soybean [(Glycine max (L.) Merrill] under Acidic Soil Condition in Meghalaya, India
Authors: Devi Yengkhom Linthoingambi , Singh K. Noren , Samuthirapandi S.
Published: August 2023

In the world scenario, although soybean is considered an important oilseed crop with India holding 5th position by contributing about 3.95% share in it’s total production, its production in north-eastern region of India especially in Meghalaya is quite less due to its acidic soil condition. With the highlight of the above fact, the present research was conducted using 40 different soybean genotypes from different regions in the country. At different growth stages of the plant, 22 DUS characters and 12 quantitative characters were recorded. Analysis of variance gave highest significant value for number of seeds per plant succeeded by number of pods per plant and the lowest was found for number of seeds per pod and primary branch per plant. Studying the correlation analysis of the agronomic traits, seed yield per plant was showing positively correlation with characters number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant, 50% flowering, plant height, days to maturity, primary branch per plant and protein content while characters like number of seeds per pods, number of pods per cluster and100 seed weight was found non-significant. The highest yield was found in the genotype TS-53 followed by SKF-SPS-11 and MACS-1493. Lowest yielder genotypes are MACS-1575 followed by NRC-130. Genotype CSB-10112 had the highest protein content(45.1%)  and genotype NRC-131 was found to have highest oil content(20.1%). Clustering of genotypes for studying genetic diversity was performed by Tocher’s method of D2 analysis. A total of 9 clusters was formed with cluster I having 23 genotypes, cluster II with 4 genotypes, cluster III with 3 genotypes, cluster IV with 5 genotypes while cluster V, VI, VII, VIII and IX did not fall in any cluster. With these findings, it will be useful for breeders to further undergo molecular level studies to find out the gene responsible for tolerance. Thus, breeders can use the characters which were more positively correlated with yield for crop improvement work and the diverse parents could be used for hybridization program.
Growth and Yield of Urdbean Influenced by Vermicompost and Vermiwash
Authors: Joshi Disha , Yadav L. R. , Ratore Bhavna Singh , Srivastava Hritik , Verma Ram Singh , Gurjar Biram Singh , Yadav Mamta , Sharma Chetana , Karol Anchal
Published: August 2023

The field experiment was conducted at Agronomy farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner (Rajasthan) to evaluate the Growth and yield of urdbean [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] influenced by vermicompost and vermiwash. The field experiment was carried out during the Kharif season, 2020 on loamy sand soil. The experiment comprising 20 treatment combinations with different doses of vermicompost (control, vermicompost 1.5 t/ha, vermicompost 3.0 t/ha, vermicompost 4.5 t/ha and vermicompost 6.0 t/ha,) and foliar spray of vermiwash (control, vermiwash 5%, vermiwash 10% and vermiwash 15%) was carried out in a 3 times replicated factorial randomised block design. The research explored the effect of various doses of vermicompost and vermiwash on different growth parameters and yield of urdbean on various stages. Results revealed that application of vermicompost 4.5 t/ha significantly enhanced the growth attributes of urdbean viz., plant height, number of branches/plant, dry matter accumulation at 50 DAS and at harvest, CGR (Crop Growth Rate), LAI (Leaf Area Index), chlorophyll content, number of total and effective root nodules, fresh and dry weight of nodules. It also recorded significantly higher seed, stover and biological yields (940, 1920 and 2860 kg/ha) over lower levels. However, it was seen to be at par with vermicompost 6.0 t/ha. Results further showed that application of vermiwash 15% foliar spray at the time of flower initiation stage also resulted in significant increase in the above all mentioned growth parameters as well as recorded highest yield.
Students’ Perception of Online Learning Quality and Preference for the Online Learning Model
Authors: Keelson Solomon Abekah , Twenefour Frank B. K. , Quaicoe Michael Techie
Published: August 2023

Aims: As a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the traditional face-to-face learning approach at tertiary institutions was replaced by an online learning model. This has a significant impact on tertiary students, teachers, and administrators, particularly in Ghana, where online learning has not been widely used in the past. The current study looked at how students' perceptions of the quality of their online learning experiences affected their acceptance of the paradigm before and after the COVID-19 prevalence.

Study Design: The study adds to the body of knowledge by assessing how well the modified DeLone and McLean information systems success model applies to online learning.

Place and Duration of Study: Technical Universities in Ghana between September 2021 and May 2022.

Methodology: Structured questionnaires were used to obtain primary data from 1386 students at Ghana's technical universities. The study employed the multiple linear regression model to examine the effects of class and gender on students' opinions of the quality and preferences for the online learning model.

Results: The study's findings revealed that the online learning system provided quality service to students, with a mean response value (MRV) ranging from 3.74 to 4.52.

It was also discovered that 72% of students preferred online learning because of the system quality, information quality, and service quality provided.

Conclusion: Students must be encouraged to pursue online education that is appropriate, cutting-edge, and useful if they are to succeed and remain relevant in the digital age. Tertiary institution administrators are being encouraged to improve the quality of the online learning environment for both students and teachers.
Transformational Leadership Behaviors of School Principals: A Quantitative Research Based on Teachers’ Perceptions, under Phuentsholing Municipal, Chukha District, Bhutan
Authors: Tshewang Tshewang , Yanki Dem
Published: August 2023

It is commonly believed that the academic performance of students, the stability of administration, and the standard of education as a whole would all suffer if an educational institution lacked effective administrators and committed academic personnel. In order to determine the frequency of transformative leadership as experienced by educators in four government schools servicing the Phuenthsoling Municipality of Chukha, Bhutan, this research will look at the prevalence of such leadership. There were a total of 138 participants in this quantitative study, 134 of them were faculty members from four Government-funded institutions. Principals may better shape their mindsets and guide their schools to success with the guidance of transformational leadership. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to learn how often principals exhibit transformational leadership behaviours in the course of their regular administrative duties.

The findings showed that school administrators demonstrated high levels of idealised influence, motivating inspiration, personalised concern, and intellectual stimulation.

The results revealed that the principals of the four schools studied used transformational leadership strategies to a significant degree.

This study will help further the growth of an institution by persuading current principals to adopt a transformational leadership style that will increase academic staff commitment and ultimately the institution's efficiency and longevity.
Frequency and Angle Multiplexed Metadevices with Multifunctional Polarization Modulation
Authors: Song Kun , Cao Yunshan , Chen Qiang , Gong Xuejian , Ji Ruonan , Liu Yahong , Zhao Xiaopeng , Wang Min , Navarro‐Cía Miguel , Zhao Qian
Published: August 2023

Multifunctional polarization controllers are highly desirable in numerous fields due to their potential applications. Although the emergence of metasurfaces provides a powerful platform for manipulating the polarization of electromagnetic waves, metasurfaces have not yet enabled multifunctional controllers. Here, this work demonstrates an effective strategy to design a multifunctional polarization controller through the integration of frequency and angular multiplexing. As an experimental proof, a non‐planar dual‐multiplexed metadevice composed of a chiral metagrating array and an anisotropic metasurface is fabricated by printed circuit board technology. The experiments show that at least five distinct functions, including ultra‐broadband linear‐to‐circular polarization conversion in 2.5–6.3 GHz, ultra‐broadband linear‐to‐linear polarization conversion in 6.6–11.0 GHz, strong optical activity between 11.4 and 12.2 GHz, giant linear and circular dichroism ≈5.96 and 12.97 GHz, respectively, can be accomplished by the proposed meta‐multiplexer. Hence, the proposed metadevice can act as high‐efficiency bifunctional waveplate, polarization rotator, linear polarizer, chiral metamirror, and so on, enabling more application flexibility. The concept of integrating multidimensional multiplexing proposed here will be of great benefit to the design of novel multifunctional polarization controllers.
Highly Efficient Hybrid Perovskite/Organic Tandem White Light Emitting‐Diodes with External Quantum Efficiency Exceeding 20%
Authors: Sun Shuang‐Qiao , Cai Yating , Zhu Min , He Wei , Liu Bo‐Chen , Xu Yan‐Lin , Lv Xuan , Sun Qi , Liu Pengyi , Shi Tingting , Xie Yue‐Min , Fung Man‐Keung
Published: August 2023

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have shown great potential for low‐cost display and lighting technologies, and all‐inorganic blue PeLEDs are recognized as a promising substitute for blue fluorescent/phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) owing to their superior color purity and great stability potential. However, confined by the solution fabrication process, depositing multi‐layered white PeLEDs remains a challenge. Here, a newly designed hybrid perovskite/organic tandem white LED (POTWLED), integrated with a bottom blue PeLED unit and a top orange/(orange + red) OLED unit, to prevent damage to the underlying perovskite layer caused by the deposition of the top emitting layers, is reported. To optimize the performance of POTWLEDs, a conductive passivator of 2,8‐bis(diphenylphosphoryl)dibenzo[b,d] thiophene, with a strong surface binding group of P═O, is introduced to passivate perovskite defects, which promotes a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 17.3% for blue PeLEDs with an emission peak at 488 nm. As a result, based on the optimized blue PeLED units, a maximum EQE of 23.9% with a low color temperature of 2522 K is obtained for POTWLEDs, which is the highest efficiency for perovskite‐based WLEDs, illustrating the great potential of the hybrid tandem device in fabricating high‐performance perovskite‐based WLEDs.
Loss of ZBED6 Protects Against Sepsis‐Induced Muscle Atrophy by Upregulating DOCK3‐Mediated RAC1/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway in Pigs
Authors: Liu Huan , Pan Dengke , Li Pu , Wang Dandan , Xia Bo , Zhang Ruixin , Lu Junfeng , Xing Xiangyang , Du Jiaxiang , Zhang Xiao , Jin Long , Jiang Lin , Yao Linong , Li Mingzhou , Wu Jiangwei
Published: August 2023

Sepsis‐induced muscle atrophy often increases morbidity and mortality in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, yet neither therapeutic target nor optimal animal model is available for this disease. Here, by modifying the surgical strategy of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), a novel sepsis pig model is created that for the first time recapitulates the whole course of sepsis in humans. With this model and sepsis patients, increased levels of the transcription factor zinc finger BED‐type containing 6 (ZBED6) in skeletal muscle are shown. Protection against sepsis‐induced muscle wasting in ZBED6‐deficient pigs is further demonstrated. Mechanistically, integrated analysis of RNA‐seq and ChIP‐seq reveals dedicator of cytokinesis 3 (DOCK3) as the direct target of ZBED6. In septic ZBED6‐deficient pigs, DOCK3 expression is increased in skeletal muscle and myocytes, activating the RAC1/PI3K/AKT pathway and protecting against sepsis‐induced muscle wasting. Conversely, opposite gene expression patterns and exacerbated muscle wasting are observed in septic ZBED6‐overexpressing myotubes. Notably, sepsis patients show increased ZBED6 expression along with reduced DOCK3 and downregulated RAC1/PI3K/AKT pathway. These findings suggest that ZBED6 is a potential therapeutic target for sepsis‐induced muscle atrophy, and the established sepsis pig model is a valuable tool for understanding sepsis pathogenesis and developing its therapeutics.
The evolution of Ericaceae flowers and their pollination syndromes at a global scale
Authors: Kriebel Ricardo , Rose Jeffrey P. , Bastide Paul , Jolles Diana , Reginato Marcelo , Sytsma Kenneth J.
Published: August 2023

Premise

Floral evolution in large clades is difficult to study not only because of the number of species involved, but also because they often are geographically widespread and include a diversity of outcrossing pollination systems. The cosmopolitan blueberry family (Ericaceae) is one such example, most notably pollinated by bees and multiple clades of nectarivorous birds.

Methods

We combined data on floral traits, pollination ecology, and geography with a comprehensive phylogeny to examine the structuring of floral diversity across pollination systems and continents. We focused on ornithophilous systems to test the hypothesis that some Old World Ericaceae were pollinated by now‐extinct hummingbirds.

Results

Despite some support for floral differentiation at a continental scale, we found a large amount of variability within and among landmasses, due to both phylogenetic conservatism and parallel evolution. We found support for floral differentiation in anther and corolla traits across pollination systems, including among different ornithophilous systems. Corolla traits show inconclusive evidence that some Old World Ericaceae were pollinated by hummingbirds, while anther traits show stronger evidence. Some major shifts in floral traits are associated with changes in pollination system, but shifts within bee systems are likely also important.

Conclusions

Studying the floral evolution of large, morphologically diverse, and widespread clades is feasible. We demonstrate that continent‐specific radiations have led to widespread parallel evolution of floral morphology. We show that traits outside of the perianth may hold important clues to the ecological history of lineages.
Hidden cargo: The impact of historical shipping trade on the recent‐past and contemporary non‐native flora of northeastern United States
Authors: Schmidt Ryan J. , King Megan R. , Aronson Myla F. J. , Struwe Lena
Published: August 2023

Premise

Understanding establishment and spread of non‐native plants is important in the face of a homogenizing global flora. While many studies focus on successful, invasive species, fewer have studied failed plant introductions. Until the early 1900s, large quantities of ship ballast, often containing foreign plant propagules, were deposited in New Jersey (USA). The resulting ballast flora is documented in extensive herbarium records, providing us a unique opportunity to analyze successes and failures of novel plant species introductions.

Methods

We used digitized specimens from 75 herbaria to study 264 non‐native species introduced into New Jersey through 19th century ballast deposition. We used spatial (density‐based clustering; HDBSCAN) and temporal analyses of species retention and geographic spread to quantify disappearance rate, survival, and dispersion through time and define trajectory groups.

Results

Four distinct trajectory groups were identified: waif (only present during import; 32% of species), short‐term (disappeared quickly; 20%), established–limited spread (survives locally, 30%), and established–widespread (widespread, 18%). Species disappearance rate was highest during ballast deposition and decreased soon after deposition stopped around 1900. Spatial patterns showed a strong association with 19th century railroads for inland dispersal from ports. The disappearance rate and spatial analyses are robust to herbarium collection bias.

Conclusions

This study using New Jersey as a model is one of the few documenting multispecies successes and failures in inadvertent plant introductions. Results reveal distinct trends in species establishment and geographic spread and highlight the utility of herbarium specimens in answering questions that span large time scales.
A polygenic resilience score moderates the genetic risk for schizophrenia: Replication in 18,090 cases and 28,114 controls from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium
Authors: Hess Jonathan L. , Mattheisen Manuel ,   the Schizophrenia Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, Greenwood Tiffany A. , Tsuang Ming T. , Edenberg Howard J. , Holmans Peter , Faraone Stephen V. , Glatt Stephen J.
Published: August 2023

Identifying heritable factors that moderate the genetic risk for schizophrenia (SCZ) could help clarify why some individuals remain unaffected despite having relatively high genetic liability. Previously, we developed a framework to mine genome‐wide association (GWAS) data for common genetic variants that protect high‐risk unaffected individuals from SCZ, leading to derivation of the first‐ever “polygenic resilience score” for SCZ (resilient controls n = 3786; polygenic risk score‐matched SCZ cases n = 18,619). Here, we performed a replication study to verify the moderating effect of our polygenic resilience score on SCZ risk (OR = 1.09, p = 4.03 × 10−5) using newly released GWAS data from 23 independent case–control studies collated by the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC) (resilient controls n = 2821; polygenic risk score‐matched SCZ cases n = 5150). Additionally, we sought to optimize our polygenic resilience‐scoring formula to improve subsequent modeling of resilience to SCZ and other complex disorders. We found significant replication of the polygenic resilience score, and found that strict pruning of SNPs based on linkage disequilibrium to known risk SNPs and their linked loci optimizes the performance of the polygenic resilience score.
A multifunctional Tb‐porphyrin aerogel for ratiometric fluorescent sensing of Cu(II) and photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B
Authors: Xu Qian , Guo Xinyuan , Hou Chuantao , Wang Zonghua
Published: August 2023

Synthesis of Ln‐porphyrin aerogels with abundant porosity and novel photophysical properties for luminescent sensing and photocatalysis should have significant importance. In this paper, a multifunctional Tb‐porphyrin aerogel was synthesized using agarose as a building block for ratiometric fluorescent Cu(II) sensing and photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B. Specially, Tb‐porphyrin particles were introduced into agarose aerogel to give the Tb‐porphyrin aerogel with porous structure. Tb‐porphyrin aerogel shows an excellent sensing performance toward Cu(II) resulting from the self‐referencing mechanism and the porous structure. The fluorescent response exhibits a linear range from 1 to 200 μM (R2 = 0.990), and the limit of detection is 50 nM (S/N = 3). Such a ratiometric fluorescent sensor shows excellent long‐term stability and selectivity. Furthermore, the Tb‐porphyrin aerogel was used for photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B, exhibiting a more efficient activity compared with the Tb‐porphyrin particle. This research should open up a new avenue to develop Ln‐porphyrin aerogel‐based material for ratiometric fluorescent sensing and photocatalysis.
Optimization of thermal degradation performance of plasticized poly(vinyl chloride)‐boron composite films using response surface methodology
Authors: Çiğdem Mustafa , Tüzüm Demir Ayşe Pınar
Published: August 2023

This work aims to statistically assess the dehydrochlorination of plasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (p‐PVC) films produced using boron waste sludge, heat stabilizer mixture (Ca‐ZnSt2), and plasticizer (dioctyl terephthalate). This study also focuses on providing information about the effect of boron waste sludge (BSW), heat stabilizer, and plasticizer amounts on the degradation of the films to enhance the thermal stability of flexible p‐PVC formulations. Experiments were designed using the Box‐Wilson method. The polyene formation and discoloration caused by the degradation were measured by UV spectroscopy and colorimetry, respectively. These parameters were optimized using the response surface methodology. An analysis of variance was performed to assess statistically significant differences between the parameters on p‐PVC degradation by using the Design Expert 13 statistical program. The yellowness index and amount of polyene formed differed among the films, and the film prepared at the midpoint of all parameters was determined to have greater stabilizing efficiency than the others. In this study, an effort has been made to shed light on the improvements in thermal stability in PVC. Results will serve to protect the environment via the data provided to the producers. The use of boron waste will contribute to the environment and the economy.
Lost in a black‐box? Interpretable machine learning for assessing Italian SMEs default
Authors: Crosato Lisa , Liberati Caterina , Repetto Marco
Published: August 2023

Academic research and the financial industry have recently shown great interest in Machine Learning algorithms capable of solving complex learning tasks, although in the field of firms' default prediction the lack of interpretability has prevented an extensive adoption of the black‐box type of models. In order to overcome this drawback and maintain the high performances of black‐boxes, this paper has chosen a model‐agnostic approach. Accumulated Local Effects and Shapley values are used to shape the predictors' impact on the likelihood of default and rank them according to their contribution to the model outcome. Prediction is achieved by two Machine Learning algorithms (eXtreme Gradient Boosting and FeedForward Neural Networks) compared with three standard discriminant models. Results show that our analysis of the Italian Small and Medium Enterprises manufacturing industry benefits from the overall highest classification power by the eXtreme Gradient Boosting algorithm still maintaining a rich interpretation framework to support decisions.
Erdstatische Überlegungen zum Nachweis von Pfahlfußaufweitungen
Authors: Kindler Arne
Published: August 2023

Im Rahmen einer aktuellen Baumaßnahme wurden seit vielen Jahren in Deutschland erstmals wieder Großbohrpfähle mit Pfahlfußaufweitungen ausgeführt. In diesem Zusammenhang ergaben sich Fragen hinsichtlich der erforderlichen Nachweise zu den Aufweitungen. Die einschlägigen Nachweise zum Durchstanzen und/oder zum Konsolbruch können nach dem aktuellen Stand der Bemessungsnormen DIN EN 1992‐1 und DIN EN 1997‐1 nicht zielgerichtet geführt werden. Aufgrund dieser Feststellung wurde durch den Verfasser zu alten Literaturquellen hinsichtlich der Pfahlfußaufweitungen recherchiert. Die Recherche führte am Ende zur theoretischen Bodenmechanik als Grenzbereich der Erdstatik und damit zu den Urvätern der modernen Bodenmechanik. Diese Arbeit soll einen Beitrag zu möglichen theoretischen Lösungsansätzen für den Nachweis von Pfahlfußaufweitungen leisten. Auf der einen Seite wird gezeigt, was das vertiefte Verständnis über Erdstatik dem arbeitenden Ingenieur an die Hand geben kann, und auf der anderen Seite, dass dennoch einiges offenbleibt und die In‐situ‐Ausführung vielleicht den Lösungsansatz bringt, wenn das Problem vom Ende her begonnen wird zu denken.
The increasing use of private special schools: A policy gap for inclusive education
Authors: Thomas Gary , Dobson Graeme , Loxley Andrew
Published: August 2023

Abstract

There have been significant increases in the number of children sent to non‐maintained special schools in recent years. To assess the extent of this trend and its probable consequences, Freedom of Information requests about spending on private special schools were sent to a stratified sample of 24 local authorities in England. The responses indicated substantial rises in spending recently, with very substantial spending on certain kinds of provision in the private sector—spending of up to £0.3 million per child per annum. We argue that the increasing reliance on private special school placement carries not only potential risks for the education, care and wellbeing of the students placed in often distant schools, with recent evidence of cases of serious neglect and abuse in such schools, but also threats to the development of inclusive practice. Current policy and its associated funding mechanisms incentivise separation and are inimical to the development of inclusive solutions to children's and young people's problems at school. We argue that systems need to be developed which enable the substantial sums currently spent on private special schools to be re‐deployed to cultivate imaginative inclusive responses to the difficulties experienced by some children at school.
An exploration of a physical activity intervention in a community fitness setting for adolescents with autism
Authors: Bassette Laura , Sundberg Shawna , Magnusen Abby , Ramirez Alysan , Badger Emily
Published: August 2023

It is well established that adolescents with autism spectrum disorders often do not engage in physical activity, which may contribute to secondary health concerns (e.g., poor cardiovascular health and diabetes). The purpose of this study was to extend the research on a behavioral intervention package and address previous limitations (i.e., small number of exercises and minimal maintenance). A multiple baseline design across participants was used to determine if there was a functional relationship between the intervention and independence of physical activity, creating workouts, and navigating workouts. The results indicate that participants were able to acquire and maintain skills. When new exercises were presented in generalization, two participants demonstrated higher levels of independence in physical activity and one participant displayed a similar level to baseline. Implications and areas for future research are discussed.
Neuropsychological predictors of conversion from mild cognitive impairment to dementia at different timepoints
Authors: Quaranta Davide , Caraglia Naike , L'Abbate Federica , Giuffrè Guido Maria , Guglielmi Valeria , Iacobucci Giovanna Masone , Rossini Paolo Maria , Calabresi Paolo , Marra Camillo
Published: August 2023

Introduction

: Impairment of episodic memory is largely considered the main cognitive marker of prodromic Alzheimer's disease (AD). Nevertheless, the neuropathological process in AD starts several years before and, apart from biomarkers well defined in the Amyloid (A), Tauopathy (T), Neurodegeneration (N) framework, early clinical and neuropsychological markers able to detect mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to AD before the appearance of memory disorders are lacking in clinical practice. Investigations on semantic memory have shown promising results in providing an earlier marker of dementia in MCI patients.

Methods

: A total of 253 MCI subjects were followed up every 6 months for 6 years—186 converted to dementia and 67 remained stable at the sixth year of follow‐up. Twenty‐seven patients progressed in the first 2 years (fast converters), 107 in the third to fourth year (intermediate converters), and 51 after the fourth year of follow‐up (slow converters).

Results

: Stable MCI subjects performed better than fast decliners in Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE), several long‐term memory scores, and category verbal fluency test (CFT); stable and intermediate converters differ only in MMSE and CFT tests; and stable and slow converters differ only in MMSE and phonological/semantic discrepancy score.

Conclusion

: Early impairment of semantic memory could predict the evolution to AD before the onset of episodic memory disorders, and the discrepancy between phonological and semantic verbal fluency could be able to detect this impairment in advance in respect of simple CFT tests. The assessment of different aspects of semantic memory and its degradation could represent an early cognitive marker to intercept MCI due to AD in clinical practice.
Meeting Ugandan university students’ career needs using cognitive information processing model
Authors: Nsubuga Henry , Osborn Debra S. , Brookens Qualandria
Published: August 2023

Career practitioners in Uganda are challenged to help students achieve personal agency in designing and implementing preferred career paths when faced with the increased uncertainty. The need for services vastly exceeds the supply of practitioners. Cognitive information processing (CIP) theory describes key elements required for informed decision‐making and a decision‐making approach that considers the context of internal and external influences. CIP also offers an innovative delivery model designed to increase access while optimizing resources. In this article, we describe the applicability of CIP theory in meeting the career needs of students seeking career services at a university in Uganda. We discuss program integration challenges faced such as limited staff and resources, as well as specific student characteristics that act as barriers to seeing the value of personally engaging career problem‐solving. Results from a workshop survey and anecdotal comments about the integration of CIP into career service delivery are provided.
Parental support, perfectionism and career development: A model test for middle school students
Authors: Duru Hazel , Gültekin Filiz
Published: August 2023

Middle school years are when young people need environmental support for career development. In this context, parents play an essential role in the career development of young people. The sample of the study consisted of 368 middle school students (236 girls, 132 boys). The model of the mediating role of self‐oriented perfectionism between parental support and career development in middle school students was tested. Participants completed self‐report data collection tools to assess career development, career‐related parental support, and perfectionism. As a result of the analyses in which the structural equation model was used, it was determined that the model showed a good fit. In addition, self‐oriented perfectionism has a mediating role in the relationship between parental support and career development. These results are thought to be essential for the guidance services to be applied in career development.
Synthesis Methods of Fe3O4 Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Fatmawati Titin , Shiddiq Muhandis , Armynah Bidayatul , Tahir Dahlang
Published: August 2023

Magnetic nanoparticles made from organic and inorganic materials have gained significant technological progress and are widely applied in biomedicine, including magnetic resonance imaging, targeted drug delivery systems, biosensors, hyperthermia, and tissue engineering. The most reported synthesis methods include hydrothermal, sol‐gel, laser ablation, microemulsion, and ball‐milling methods. The synthesis parameters have a strong correlation with essential properties, such as phase, size, and surface morphology, which greatly influence the macroscopic properties and potential applications of the particles. Different preparation methods result in magnetic nanoparticles with varying characteristics, and the appropriate method can be chosen based on the requirements of the specific application. Two effective methods for synthesizing magnetic nanoparticles are coprecipitation and hydrothermal method because the preparation is relatively simple with low energy consumption, and uniform and homogeneous crystals are obtained.
Stretchable alkenamides terminated Ti3C2Tx MXenes to release strain for lattice‐stable mixed‐halide perovskite solar cells with suppressed halide segregation
Authors: Yao Xuemei , Duan Jialong , Zhao Yuanyuan , Zhang Junshuai , Guo Qiyao , Zhang Qiaoyu , Yang Xiya , Duan Yanyan , Yang Peizhi , Tang Qunwei
Published: August 2023

Bandgap‐tunable mixed‐halide perovskite materials have attracted considerable interest because of their indispensability as top counterparts in tandem solar cells. However, the soft and disordered lattice always suffers from severe phase segregation under illumination, which is particularly susceptible to residual lattice strain. Herein, we report a strain regulation strategy by using alkenamides terminated Ti3C2Tx MXenes as an additive into perovskite precursor. Apart from the role of a template for grain growth to obtain high‐quality films, the stretchable alkyl chain promotes lattice shrinkage or expansion to form an elastic grain boundary to eliminate the spatially distributed stain and shut down ion migration channels. As a result, the all‐inorganic perovskite solar cells based on CsPbIBr2 and CsPbI2Br halides achieve prolonged device stability under harsh conditions and the best power conversion efficiencies up to 11.06% and 14.30%, respectively.