bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Para além da assessoria executiva: um estudo sobre a atuação do secretário executivo
Authors: Dos Santos Chayane Fátima , Maceno Ellen Thais , Rocha Carla Marlana , Bilert Vania Silva de Souza , Crotti Katiane
Published: June 2023

O saber/fazer trouxe à atuação dos graduados em secretariado executivo novas oportunidades a área secretarial, aprimoramento de suas competências e da cientificidade, esta última tornou- se cada vez mais presente a partir da exploração destes profissionais da assessoria inseridos na conjuntura contemporânea. Este estudo buscou analisar quais as novas demandas de assessorias presentes nas práticas dos profissionais de secretariado executivo. A análise foi realizada por meio da pesquisa exploratória e bibliográfica, entrevistas semiestruturadas com graduados em secretariado executivo e o mapeamento de produções científicas da área de assessoria nos últimos quatro anos. Os dados foram sistematizados e analisados através da análise de conteúdo qualitativa, as produções científicas e partindo sequencialmente para identificação do perfil dos profissionais de assessoria, identificando a área de atuação e as competências presentes na sua rotina. Os principais resultados apontam para o aprimoramento das competências e áreas da assessoria já existentes, bem como o surgimento sucinto de outras áreas de atuação, como as assessorias em marketing digital, remota, comunicação, entre outras que a pesquisa evidenciou, onde pontua-se os rumos no qual os profissionais de secretariado caminham em busca de diferencial no mercado de trabalho. O estudo permitiu ampliar a compreensão acerca das mudanças que ocorreram referente aos eixos da assessoria abordados por Nonato Júnior (2009) e como foram o aprimoramento dos conhecimentos já disseminados na área secretarial.
Ecoaquisições no âmbito de licitações públicas em Macapá, estado do Amapá, Brasil
Authors: Brito Albino Lutiani da Costa , Gianezini Miguelangelo , Camilo Silvio Parodi Oliveira , Yamaguchi Cristina Keiko
Published: June 2023

As Ecoaquisições surgiram nas discussões referentes a preocupação com o clima, meio ambiente e questões sociais, e em primeira medida a intenção da ideia é a de utilizar os valores despendidos pelos governos para privilegiar, ou ainda, fomentar um mercado ecofriendly. O presente estudo visa avaliar, por meio dos documentos oficiais do município de Macapá, informações dos critérios e práticas de sustentabilidade adotadas pelo governo local. Os dados obtidos demonstram que houve aumento no incremento de exigências de cunho ambiental aos editais de licitação, seja de forma quantitativa ou qualitativa para a utilização de critérios no sentido de atender a promoção da sustentabilidade ambiental por intermédio das compras efetuadas pela administração municipal. No entanto, este dado está aquém do que necessariamente deveria sinalizar a administração pública, uma vez que, tal medida deixou de ser excepcional e passou a ser a regra geral.
Mercury concentrations in domestic and imported canned bivalves and cephalopods sold in northwestern Mexico
Authors: Ruelas-Inzunza Jorge , Delgado-Alvarez Carolina , Escobar-Sánchez Ofelia , Frías-Espericueta Martín
Published: June 2023

Mercury (Hg) is mainly incorporated into humans through the consumption of contaminated foods. Mercury was measured and the methyl-Hg (MeHg) concentration was estimated in canned mollusks sold in northwestern Mexico to assess the health risk to consumers. Five mollusk types were considered: oysters, clams, octopuses, mussels, and squids. The Hg concentration of mussels was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than those of the other bivalves (oysters and clams) and cephalopods (squids and octopuses). The average Hg concentration in bivalves (0.013 mg·kg–1) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that of cephalopods (0.018 mg·kg–1). The estimated MeHg concentrations were also lower in bivalves than in cephalopods. Based on our results, no health risk is associated with the consumption of canned mollusks that are sold in northwestern Mexico. The Hg and MeHg concentrations followed the order of octopuses > squids = clams > oysters > mussels. The Hg and MeHg concentrations in the mollusks evaluated in this study were below the maximum permissible limits for human consumption in Mexico.
Anaesthetic Management of Pyelolithotomy Patient with Restricted Mouth Opening due to Previous Mandibular Surgery- A Case Report
Authors: Balasubramanian Kala , Botta Bhagya Vardhan
Published: June 2023

Anaesthetic management of a patient with compromised kidney function, who had restricted mouth opening due to previous surgery for mandibular fracture requiring general anaesthesia, is a challenge for anaesthesiologists. This is a case report of a 45- year-old male patient with renal calculus who underwent left pyelolithotomy surgery under general anaesthesia at our institution. He was admitted with left loin pain of two weeks' duration. Airway control was difficult due to limited mouth opening resulting from mandibular fracture four months prior, for which he underwent open reduction and internal fixation at a different hospital. We anticipated difficulty in securing the airway due to mandibular plate fixation. The airway was secured with orotracheal intubation using a levitan optical stylet under airway block. This case report highlights the importance of optical stylet in the plan B of managing a difficult airway, when a fiberoptic bronchoscope is not available in a critical situation.
Granulomatous AppendicitisA Rare Case Report
Authors: Rastogi Suyash , Muniyappa Usha
Published: June 2023

In 1953, Meyerding and Bertram were the first person to report non specific granulomatous inflammation in appendix. Granulomatous appendicitis is a rare condition which usually account to less than 2% of the cases, however idiopathic granulomatous appendicitis is very rare, and diagnosis is usually made by excluding all other conditions. It is challenging to diagnose tuberculous appendicitis based on clinical findings, hence histopathological examination is required. Hereby, authors report a case of 26-year-old male who presented with pain abdomen in the Department of Surgery. On imaging, appendix was thickened, and acute appendicitis was considered as a probable diagnosis. On histopathological examination, it was diagnosed as granulomatous inflammation suggestive of tuberculosis. The present case is presented for its rarity as appendicitis is considered as an abdominal emergency, so prompt management and diagnosis is required by excluding all other causes of granulomatous inflammation in appendix.
A Study on Consumers’ Behavior and Factors Influencing the Consumption of Fish in Selected Districts of North Karnataka, India
Authors: Kumar H. R. Harish , Bindu H. A. , Pavan V.
Published: June 2023

Fish and fishery products are one of the most significant sources to meet sufficient animal-based protein. Knowledge of preference for fish is important for producers, consumers, and traders at the microeconomic level and also for policymakers and planners at the macroeconomic level. The present study has made an attempt to analyze the consumers’ preference towards fish consumption in Dharwad and Belgaum districts of North Karnataka, India. Sixty fish consumers were selected randomly from wholesale-cum retail fish markets. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis were employed to analyze socio-economic characteristics, consumers’ preferences, and factors influencing consumer behavior. The majority (65%) of the respondents belonged to the age group of 20 to 40 years. Most of the consumers (30%) visited the fish market occasionally and one-third (33%) of them purchased 0.5-1.0 kg/visit from the market. Two third (66%) of them preferred to buy fish in cut pieces and 68 per cent have emphasized freshness. It was observed that around 63 per cent of consumers were comfortable paying Rs. 100 to 200 per kg. Regression results revealed that age (0.168), family income (0.598), and family size (0.131) are positive and significantly influences which implies that a unit increase in age, family income, and family size will increase fish consumption by 0.16, 0.59 and 0.13 kgs, respectively. While price of fish is negative and significant impact on consumption behavior.
An Investigation on the Distribution Channels and Demand Analysis for National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) Products in Sri Ganganagar District of Rajasthan, India
Authors: Bishnoi Sarika , Barker Nitin , Sunil Kale Pranil , Sharma Priya
Published: June 2023

Fertilizer is one of the strategic inputs for enhancing productivity which enables the farmers to meet the growing demand for food in the country. Distribution of various fertilizers is very active and dense, chiefly done by cooperative societies, some public and private sectors. The study analyzed the distribution system of fertilizers in the Sri Ganganagar district of Rajasthan. Total number of respondents were 95 in which 75 farmers, 15 dealers and 5 wholesalers participated in the study. Farmers sought information about various fertilizers from dealers, peer experiences, company officers, demonstrations, and pamphlets. Farmers predominantly purchased fertilizers from dealers, retailers, wholesalers and though some also obtained them from other sources such as government agencies.
Issues, Problems and Challenges of Enhancing Social Functioning among Children with Cognitive Disabilities in Tanzania: A Theoretical Review
Authors: Rwegoshora Harold , Mnyanyi Cosmas , Mohamed Fauzia
Published: June 2023

The paper attempts to provide a theoretical and empirical perspective related to the issues, problems and challenges of enhancing social functioning among children with cognitive disability in Tanzania. Specifically, the study reviews three theories, namely empowerment, inclusive and ecological with a view of finding the challenges associated with the enhancement of children with cognitive disability. The study is a literature review based on survey from books, scholarly articles and other relevant sources seeking explanations on the enhancement of social functioning among children with cognitive disability. The reviewed literature were summarized, analysed, and synthesized. The findings reveal that, the theories used in social work practice have diverse and different foci of analysis and intervention. This is largely because addressing a social problem there are many variables and uncertainties in social work practice. Because of that, there is no one single objective “reality” in social theory and practice. Secondly, whereas theories such as the ecological describes the influence of different subsystems in the changing individual  behaviour,  other  behaviours  such  as  discrimination  and  social  exclusion among people with disabilities do not seem to change. The study further reveals that the assumptions of the inclusive theory of developing positive social relationships (e.g. friendships and acquisition  of social skills)  have  not been  successful because of existence negative attitudes among  societal members  which  are influenced  by  false beliefs  about  people with  cognitive disability. The study concludes that, whereas the theories help social workers to understand complex human behaviour and social environment which influence their clients’ lives and the nature of social problems, there are no theories which help in understanding African realities. The study observes that, negative social environment and attitudinal change have a negative impact   in facilitating positive behavioural change in as far as enhancing social functioning among children with cognitive disability. The study recommends that more research be conducted to address the existing prohibiting factors. It is further recommended that concerted be made among different actors including policy interventions to raise awareness of local communities.
Rice Straw Degradation with Mixed Cultures of Microfungi and Their Enzymes
Authors: Sahrawat Rinni , Garg Amar P.
Published: June 2023

Huge quantities of agricultural residues are generated every year but it is neither converted into energy nor allowed to go back to the soil and sometimes burnt that leads to air pollution and loss of soil biology and fertility. Cellulolytic microfungi secrete extracellular enzymes that degrade lignocellulosic biomass in nature and this ability of microbes may be exploited to enhance the rates of degradation of agriculture residues to recycle carbon, nitrogen and minerals in the soil. This study aimed to find out the effect(s) of co-cultivation of high cellulolytic microfungi in various combinations on rice straw under field conditions to enhance its microbial decomposition to discourage the farmers from burning it in the fields. The effectiveness of five fungal cultures in different combinations was tested for efficient degradation of rice straw. Five dominant species of fungi that have been earlier shown to secrete high amounts of cellulases in our own laboratories, were cultured on medium containing yeast powder (2g/L), jaggery (5g/L) and urea (1g/L) at room temperature. Release of reducing sugars from 1 g of rice straw treated with 10IU/mL of fungal extracellular enzymes showed that Penicillium chrysogenum released highest amount of mono and oligomers (96 mg/g) followed by Aspergillus flavus (80 mg/g) and A. oryzae (78 mg/g), A. fumigatus (72 mg/g) and Trichoderma viride (70 mg/g) within 24 h that increased with increasing temperature and increasing period of incubation. Treatment of rice straw with fungal cultures of Penicillium chrysogenum, Aspergillus flavus and A. oryzae revealed that the co-inoculation of all these species decomposed approximately 75% of the total rice straw as assessed by weight loss method. The application extracellular secretory enzymes on rice straw, though, revealed to release of reducing sugars, but the rate of reducing sugars was not sufficient enough to be used for degradation of rice straw under field conditions, hence, the used of mixed cultures of microfungi was planned and tested experimentally, which allowed the decomposition of rice straw much faster than control which were treated with heat-killed dead cultures of test microfungi. Hence, it is recommended that additional spray of mixed cultures of microfungi on rice straw may facilitate its degradation under field conditions.
Recent Developments in Damage Detection of CFRP Composites Using Non-Destructive Techniques – A Review
Authors: Sharma Ramesh S. , Vijayakumar M. N.
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of state-of the art nondestructive testing (NDT) methods specifically applied to carbon fiber reinformed polymer (CFRP) composites. The intent of this survey is to provide valuable guidance and insights to researchers and practitioners encompass in the arena of NDT for CFRP composites. Each NDT method is carefully examined, highlighting its principles, advantages, limitations, and potential applications in the evaluation of CFRP composite structures. The methods discussed in this paper include, but are not limited to, ultrasonic testing, eddy current testing, thermography, radiography, and acoustic emission. Furthermore, the information presented here aims to facilitate the selection and utilization of appropriate NDT methods for effective evaluation and quality assurance of CFRP composite structures along with challenges that researcher may encounter in the practical implementation of this techniques. Finally, an attempt is made to present alphabetically the review of literature on earliest to modern NDT methods published by various authors and how it continues to expand and become a viable technique for damage estimation.
Effect of Silica Flour and Potasium Chloride as Additives in the Rhelogical Properties of High Temperature High Pressure Gas Well Cement Slurry
Authors: Roli Amuah Freda , Joel Ogbonna , John Anthony
Published: June 2023

This study explores the effects of silica flour and potassium chloride on the rheological properties of high temperature and pressure gas wells. Seven different materials were used as additives which includes: fresh water, dyckerhoff, silica flour, antifoam, extender, fluid loss, dispersant, retarder, anti-settling agent, gas control agent, dry viscosifier, potassium chloride and accelerator. Four recipes were prepared using these additives in different mixtures. Recipe four has all the additives including silica flour and potassium chloride. A series of flow tests was performed using an advanced shear-stress/shear strain controlled rheometer. Rheological properties of cement slurries were calculated from the resulting flow curves using the Bingham plastic model and the Herschel–Bulkley’s model. Changes in shear stress–shear rate relationships, yield stress, plastic viscosity, and shear thinning/thickening behavior were found to be related to temperature and the type and dosage of supplementary cementitious material. The four recipes were applied in 10 cases.Among the four different recipes tested for all the 10 cases, Recipe 4 has the best regression values for both temperature vs transit time and pressure vs transit time this can be attributed to the presence of silica flour and potassium chloride.
Relevance of DNA methylation at enhancers for the acquisition of cell identities
Authors: Kreibich Elisa , Krebs Arnaud R.
Published: June 2023

DNA methylation (5mC) is an essential epigenetic mark associated with transcriptional silencing. The role of 5mC in transcriptional repression is well established for a few hundred genes through methylation of their promoters. Yet, whether 5mC contributes more broadly to gene expression is an important open question. 5mC removal has recently been associated with the activation of enhancers, opening the possibility that 5mC may globally contribute to the expression of genes defining cell identities. Here, we will review the evidence and molecular mechanisms that link 5mC with the activity of enhancers. We will discuss the spread and amplitude of the potential gene expression changes controlled by 5mC at enhancers, and how these may contribute to the determination of cell identities during development.
Automated microarray platform for single‐cell sorting and collection of lymphocytes following HIV reactivation
Authors: Cortés‐Llanos Belén , Jain Vaibhav , Cooper‐Volkheimer Alicia , Browne Edward P. , Murdoch David M. , Allbritton Nancy L.
Published: June 2023

A promising strategy to cure HIV‐infected individuals is to use latency reversing agents (LRAs) to reactivate latent viruses, followed by host clearance of infected reservoir cells. However, reactivation of latent proviruses within infected cells is heterogeneous and often incomplete. This fact limits strategies to cure HIV which may require complete elimination of viable virus from all cellular reservoirs. For this reason, understanding the mechanism(s) of reactivation of HIV within cellular reservoirs is critical to achieve therapeutic success. Methodologies enabling temporal tracking of single cells as they reactivate followed by sorting and molecular analysis of those cells are urgently needed. To this end, microraft arrays were adapted to image T‐lymphocytes expressing mCherry under the control of the HIV long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter, in response to the application of LRAs (prostratin, iBET151, and SAHA). In response to prostratin, iBET151, and SAHA, 30.5%, 11.2%, and 12.1% percentage of cells, respectively. The arrays enabled large numbers of single cells (>25,000) to be imaged over time. mCherry fluorescence quantification identified cell subpopulations with differing reactivation kinetics. Significant heterogeneity was observed at the single‐cell level between different LRAs in terms of time to reactivation, rate of mCherry fluorescence increase upon reactivation, and peak fluorescence attained. In response to prostratin, subpopulations of T lymphocytes with slow and fast reactivation kinetics were identified. Single T‐lymphocytes that were either fast or slow reactivators were sorted, and single‐cell RNA‐sequencing was performed. Different genes associated with inflammation, immune activation, and cellular and viral transcription factors were found.
Glue-on AdS holography for $$ T\overline{T} $$-deformed CFTs
Authors: Apolo Luis , Hao Peng-Xiang , Lai Wen-Xin , Song Wei
Published: June 2023

Abstract

The $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

deformation is a solvable irrelevant deformation whose properties depend on the sign of the deformation parameter μ. In particular, $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

-deformed CFTs with μ < 0 have been proposed to be holographically dual to Einstein gravity where the metric satisfies Dirichlet boundary conditions at a finite cutoff surface. In this paper, we put forward a holographic proposal for $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

-deformed CFTs with μ > 0, in which case the bulk geometry is constructed by gluing a patch of AdS3 to the original spacetime. As evidence, we show that the $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

trace flow equation, the spectrum on the cylinder, and the partition function on the torus and the sphere, among other results, can all be reproduced from bulk calculations in glue-on AdS3.
Effective actions in supersymmetric gauge theories: heat kernels for non-minimal operators
Authors: Grasso Darren T. , Kuzenko Sergei M.
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We study the quantum dynamics of a system ofnAbelian$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 1 vector multiplets coupled to$$ \frac{1}{2}n\left(n+1\right) $$12nn+1chiral multiplets which parametrise the Hermitian symmetric space Sp(2n, ℝ)/U(n). In the presence of supergravity, this model is super-Weyl invariant and possesses the maximal non-compact duality group Sp(2n, ℝ) at the classical level. These symmetries should be respected by the logarithmically divergent term (the “induced action”) of the effective action obtained by integrating out the vector multiplets. In computing the effective action, one has to deal with non-minimal operators for which the known heat kernel techniques are not directly applicable, even in flat (super)space. In this paper we develop a method to compute the induced action in Minkowski superspace. The induced action is derived in closed form and has a simple structure. It is a higher-derivative superconformal sigma model on Sp(2n, ℝ)/U(n). The obtained$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 1 results are generalised to the case of$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 local supersymmetry: a system ofnAbelian$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 vector multiplets coupled to$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2 chiral multipletsXIparametrising Sp(2n, ℝ)/U(n). The induced action is shown to be proportional to$$ \int {\textrm{d}}^4x{\textrm{d}}^4\theta {\textrm{d}}^4\overline{\theta}E\mathfrak{K}\left(X,\overline{X}\right) $$∫d4xd4θd4θ¯EKXX¯, where$$ \mathfrak{K}\left(X,\overline{X}\right) $$KXX¯is the Kähler potential for Sp(2n, ℝ)/U(n). We also apply our method to compute DeWitt’sa2coefficients in some non-supersymmetric theories with non-minimal operators.
Renormalisation of SMEFT bosonic interactions up to dimension eight by LNV operators
Authors: Bakshi Supratim Das , Díaz-Carmona Álvaro
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We present the renormalisation group running of the bosonic operators of the Standard Model effective field theory (SMEFT) by the Lepton Number Violating operators (LNVs) at 1-loop order up to $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(v4/Λ4), with v ∼ 246 GeV as the electroweak scale and Λ as the SMEFT cut-off. Using these relations with the positivity bounds on Wilson coefficients of ϕ4D4 class, we derive sign constraints on the Wilson coefficients of LNV operators, for models where ϕ4D4 operators do not appear at tree-level. We inspect these constraints for the LNV Wilson coefficients generated from matching the Type-I and III seesaw models to SMEFT up to dimension seven at tree-level. We also exhibit the unique bounds induced by the T-parameter on LNVs.
Time-dependent recruitment of GAF, ISGF3 and IRF1 complexes shapes IFNα and IFNγ-activated transcriptional responses and explains mechanistic and functional overlap
Authors: Sekrecka Agata , Kluzek Katarzyna , Sekrecki Michal , Boroujeni Mahdi Eskandarian , Hassani Sanaz , Yamauchi Shota , Sada Kiyonao , Wesoly Joanna , Bluyssen Hans A. R.
Published: June 2023

To understand in detail the transcriptional and functional overlap of IFN-I- and IFN-II-activated responses, we used an integrative RNAseq-ChIPseq approach in Huh7.5 cells and characterized the genome-wide role of pSTAT1, pSTAT2, IRF9 and IRF1 in time-dependent ISG expression. For the first time, our results provide detailed insight in the timely steps of IFNα- and IFNγ-induced transcription, in which pSTAT1- and pSTAT2-containing ISGF3 and GAF-like complexes and IRF1 are recruited to individual or combined ISRE and GAS composite sites in a phosphorylation- and time-dependent manner. Interestingly, composite genes displayed a more heterogeneous expression pattern, as compared to GAS (early) and ISRE genes (late), with the time- and phosphorylation-dependent recruitment of GAF, ISGF3 and IRF1 after IFNα stimulation and GAF and IRF1 after IFNγ. Moreover, functional composite genes shared features of GAS and ISRE genes through transcription factor co-binding to closely located sites, and were able to sustain IFN responsiveness in STAT1-, STAT2-, IRF9-, IRF1- and IRF9/IRF1-mutant Huh7.5 cells compared to Wt cells. Thus, the ISRE + GAS composite site acted as a molecular switch, depending on the timely available components and transcription factor complexes. Consequently, STAT1, STAT2 and IRF9 were identified as functional composite genes that are part of a positive feedback loop controlling long-term IFNα and IFNγ responses. More important, in the absence of any one of the components, the positive feedback regulation of the ISGF3 and GAF components appeared to be preserved. Together, these findings provide further insight in the existence of a novel ISRE + GAS composite-dependent intracellular amplifier circuit prolonging ISG expression and controlling cellular responsiveness to different types of IFNs and subsequent antiviral activity. It also offers an explanation for the existing molecular and functional overlap between IFN-I- and IFN-II-activated ISG expression.
Conditions for the Difference Set of a Central Cantor Set to be a Cantorval
Authors: Filipczak Tomasz , Nowakowski Piotr
Published: June 2023

Let $$C(\lambda )\subset [0,1]$$

C
(
λ
)
⊂
[
0
,
1
]

denote the central Cantor set generated by a sequence $$\lambda =(\lambda _{n})\in \left( 0,\frac{1}{2} \right) ^{\mathbb {N}}$$

λ
=

(

λ
n

)

∈

0
,

1
2

N

. By the known trichotomy, the difference set $$ C(\lambda )-C(\lambda )$$

C
(
λ
)
-
C
(
λ
)

of $$C(\lambda )$$

C
(
λ
)

is one of three possible sets: a finite union of closed intervals, a Cantor set, or a Cantorval. Our main result describes effective conditions for $$(\lambda _{n})$$

(

λ
n

)

which guarantee that $$C(\lambda )-C(\lambda )$$

C
(
λ
)
-
C
(
λ
)

is a Cantorval. We show that these conditions can be expressed in several equivalent forms. Under additional assumptions, the measure of the Cantorval $$C(\lambda )-C(\lambda )$$

C
(
λ
)
-
C
(
λ
)

is established. We give an application of the proved theorems for the achievement sets of some fast convergent series.
Melanin-based plumage coloration is associated with exposure in tawny owls under novel conditions
Authors: Perrault Charlotte , Morosinotto Chiara , Brommer Jon E. , Karell Patrik
Published: June 2023

Intraspecific color variation is often associated with camouflage or protection, but melanin-based color variation is also linked to behavioral and physiological aspects including boldness. In the melanin-based plumage color polymorphic tawny owl (Strix aluco), the grey morph is known to be more cryptic than the brown morph. Using 19 captive tawny owls (11 grey and 8 brown), we tested if these two color morphs that differ in camouflage tend to differently use exposed perches in a familiar environment (home aviary) and a novel environment (experimental aviary), as well as whether their response to predation risk and mobbing cues differs. The two color morphs did not differ in their exposure under known conditions (in their home aviary), but brown tawny owls were more likely to use exposed perches than grey tawny owls after release in a novel environment.

Significance statement

Melanin-based coloration can be associated with several behavioral traits. However, it is still unknown how predators with genetically-based color polymorphism vary in their efficiency of active background choice and risk-prone behavior while facing predation risk or mobbing harassment. Using captive tawny owls, we investigated predators’ behavior (attention towards the stimulus and use of space) while confronted to mobbing events and predation risk. We showed that tawny owls were using their space differently according to their color morph in a novel environment (experimental aviary) but not in a familiar environment (home aviary).
Bird traits and their nutrient impact on terrestrial invertebrate populations
Authors: van der Vegt W. , Bokhorst S.
Published: June 2023

Birds are a large nutrient vector from marine to terrestrial environments where the increased nutrient input typically results in greater primary production and enhanced microbial activity. Associated invertebrate populations however, show large response variability to bird nutrient subsidies. To explain this variable invertebrate response, we performed a meta-analysis (50 articles ranging from polar to tropical regions) where we compared the effect of bird presence on invertebrate populations between: bird taxa, nesting site selection, bird diet and climate regions. In addition, we quantified how different invertebrate taxa and trophic guilds respond to the presence of birds. Invertebrate abundance was on average > 1000% higher by bird presence, but there was little evidence for any specific bird-taxa effects on invertebrate abundance responses. Birds with a mixed diet increased Coleoptera populations the most. Invertebrate responses to bird presence were largest in polar regions but variation remained high. Not all species within communities responded to bird presence, indicating that nutrient limitation is species-specific or ecosystems are affected in different ways by birds. Furthermore, sampling strategies were inconsistent and may impact effect-sizes. Despite the contrasting nature of the different studies, an overall positive invertebrate abundance response was found in the presence of birds, with larger responses observed in polar regions. Standardized sampling approaches would resolve much of the remaining variability. As natural experiments, bird nests and affected areas are a prime spot to study community assembly rules and address issues of anthropogenic disturbance and climate change.
The association between diet quality, plant-based diets, systemic inflammation, and mortality risk: findings from NHANES
Authors: Wang Yoko Brigitte , Page Amanda J. , Gill Tiffany K. , Melaku Yohannes Adama
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To our knowledge, no studies have examined the association of diet quality and plant-based diets (PBD) with inflammatory-related mortality in obesity. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the joint associations of Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015), plant-based dietary index (PDI), healthy PDI (hPDI), unhealthy PDI (uPDI), pro-vegetarian dietary index (PVD), and systemic inflammation with all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and cancer mortality risks by obesity status.

Methods

Participants from NHANES were included in cross-sectional (N = 27,915, cycle 1999–2010, 2015–2018) and longitudinal analysis (N = 11,939, cycle 1999–2008). HEI-2015, PDI, hPDI, uPDI, and PVD were constructed based on the 24-h recall dietary interview. The grade of inflammation (low, moderate, and high) was determined based on C-reactive protein (CRP) values and multivariable ordinal logistic regression was used to determine the association. Cox proportional hazard models were used to determine the joint associations of diet and inflammation with mortality.

Results

In the fully adjusted model, HEI-2015 (ORT3vsT1 = 0.76, 95% CI 0.69–0.84; p-trend =  < 0.001), PDI (ORT3vsT1 = 0.83, 95% CI 0.75–0.91; p trend =  < 0.001), hPDI (ORT3vsT1 = 0.79, 95% CI 0.71–0.88; p trend =  < 0.001), and PVD (ORT3vsT1 = 0.85, 95% CI 0.75–0.97; p trend = 0.02) were associated with lower systemic inflammation. In contrast, uPDI was associated with higher systemic inflammation (ORT3vsT1 = 1.18, 95% CI 1.06–1.31; p-trend = 0.03). Severe inflammation was associated with a 25% increase in all-cause mortality (ORT3vsT1 = 1.25, 95% CI 1.03–1.53, p trend = 0.02). No association was found between PDI, hPDI, uPDI, and PVD with mortality. The joint association, between HEI-2015, levels of systemic inflammation, and all-cause, CVD and cancer mortality, was not significant. However, a greater reduction in mortality risk with an increase in HEI-2015 scores was observed in individuals with low and moderate inflammation, especially those with obesity.

Conclusion

Higher scores of HEI-2015 and increased intake of a healthy plant-based diet were associated with lower inflammation, while an unhealthy plant-based diet was associated with higher inflammation. A greater adherence to the 2015 dietary guidelines may reduce the risk of mortality associated with inflammation and may also benefit individuals with obesity who had low and moderate inflammation.
Über die Ausbildung und Form von flüssigen Wülsten an gekrümmten Festkörperkanten
Authors: Sommer Oliver , Wozniak Günter
Published: June 2023

Wenn ein flüssiger Film ein festes Substrat in der Umgebung einer Ecke oder Kante benetzt, bildet das Fluid eine ausgeprägte Randwulst, in der Praxis auch als „Fettkante“ bezeichnet, aus, deren Form von verschiedenen Parametern abhängt. Die Ursache dieses Phänomens ist die Oberflächenspannung, welche Druckdifferenzen in der benetzenden Flüssigkeit aufgrund der Oberflächenkrümmung durch die Kantengeometrie verursacht. Der Formationsprozess dieser Wulst und ihre finale Form werden durch das Zusammenspiel von Kapillarität, Viskosität und Trägheitskräften bestimmt. In technischen Anwendungen wie etwa dem Beschichten von festen Oberflächen stellen diese Fettkanten oftmals Beschichtungsdefekte dar. In der Praxis versuchen Hersteller daher in vielen Fällen, diesen Effekt zu unterdrücken oder zumindest zu minimieren, um ein homogeneres Beschichtungsergebnis zu erhalten. Wir untersuchen daher in dieser Arbeit das Entstehen und Verhalten dieser Fettkanten numerisch und experimentell. Unsere Ergebnisse zeigen den relativen Einfluss der dominierenden Parameter auf mit dem Ziel, das Ausmaß und die Form dieser flüssigen Wülste gezielt beeinflussen oder sogar unterdrücken zu können.
Adsorption Efficiency of Bentonite Clay and Parrotia persica During Acid Mine Drainage Treatment for the Removal of Turbid Material
Authors: Ntwampe I. O.
Published: June 2023

We conducted jar tests on the efficacy of using various mixtures of pulverized bentonite clay and Parrotia persica plant to treat AMD from a mine in Mogale City, South Africa without adding alkalinity. Two nearly identical sets of experiments were conducted using the same materials after they were rinsed using distilled and potable waters, respectively, to remove impurities, and then dried in an oven at 60 °C for 24 h, after which they were pulverized again. The pH, electrical conductivity, oxidation reduction potential, turbidity, and metal concentrations were measured before and after the experiments. The samples were treated in a jar test using standard procedures, i.e. rapid and slow mixing and settling for 1 h. The results showed that increasing the concentration of P. persica relative to the bentonite improved treatment effectiveness and that the highest turbidity removal (> 96.8%) was produced by rinsing the mixtures with potable water, drying them, and then pulverizing them again. Potentially toxic metals were removed by more than 93.7%. The morphological structure of the SEM micrographs indicate that the removal mechanism involves both physical and chemical phenomena and that the clay and P. persica are both important, particularly to the physical aspects.
Simulating flood events at the Twin Ports of Duluth-Superior using a linked hydrologic-hydrodynamic framework
Authors: Fitzpatrick Lindsay , Titze Daniel , Anderson Eric J. , Beletsky Dmitry , Kelley John G. W.
Published: June 2023

Generally, ports in the North American Great Lakes are not supported with navigational guidance (water level, water temperature, currents, ice) by NOAA’s Great Lakes Operational Forecast System (GLOFS). To examine the benefit of extending model coverage to this critical infrastructure, a linked hydrologic-hydrodynamic framework was developed for the Twin Ports of Duluth-Superior in western Lake Superior, and tested over three case studies of flooding due to storm surge and/or river flooding. Streamflow from 22 National Water Model (NWM) simulated and 3 gauged inflows within the domain was injected into a hydrodynamic model built on the Finite Volume Community Ocean Model (FVCOM), with a wet-dry grid that covered the harbor and surrounding floodplain. Model results from flood simulations compared well against time-series of water level and streamflow at gauges within the harbor, with root mean square error (RMSE) and bias values small relative to the typical fluctuations. Inclusion of NWM-simulated tributaries improved the accuracy of modeled water levels in the harbor, and increased simulated current speeds in navigational channels by up to 0.5 ms−1. Modeled inundation extent in the floodplain closely matched flood extent surveys conducted in response to a record flood event in 2012, demonstrating the capability of the modeling framework to provide flood guidance in the complex coastal setting.
Major carbon losses from degradation of Mauritia flexuosa peat swamp forests in western Amazonia
Authors: Hergoualc’h Kristell , van Lent Jeffrey , Dezzeo Nelda , Verchot Louis V. , van Groenigen Jan Willem , López Gonzales Mariela , Grandez-Rios Julio
Published: June 2023

Tropical peat swamp forests are major global carbon (C) stores highly vulnerable to human intervention. In Peruvian Amazonia, palm swamps, the prevalent peat ecosystem, have been severely degraded through recurrent cutting of Mauritia flexuosa palms for fruit harvesting. While this can transform these C sinks into significant sources, the magnitude of C fluxes in natural and disturbed conditions remains unknown. Here, we estimated emissions from degradation along a gradient comprising undegraded (Intact), moderately degraded (mDeg) and heavily degraded (hDeg) palm swamps. C stock changes above- and below-ground were calculated from biomass inventories and peat C budgets resulting from the balance of C outputs (heterotrophic soil respiration (Rh), dissolved C exports), C inputs (litterfall, root mortality) and soil CH4 emissions. Fluxes spatiotemporal dynamics were monitored (bi)monthly over 1–3 years. The peat budgets (Mg C ha−1 year−1) revealed that medium degradation reduced by 88% the soil sink capacity (from − 1.6 ± 1.3 to − 0.2 ± 0.8 at the Intact and mDeg sites) while high degradation turned the soil into a high source (6.2 ± 0.7 at the hDeg site). Differences stemmed from degradation-induced increased Rh (5.9 ± 0.3, 6.2 ± 0.3, and 9.0 ± 0.3 Mg C ha−1 year−1 at the Intact, mDeg, and hDeg sites) and decreased C inputs (8.3 ± 1.3, 7.1 ± 0.8, and 3.6 ± 0.7 Mg C ha−1 year−1 at the same sites). The large total loss rates (6.4 ± 3.8, 15.7 ± 3.8 Mg C ha−1 year−1 under medium and high degradation), originating predominantly from biomass changes call for sustainable management of these peatlands.
Normative Beliefs and Aggression: The Mediating Roles of Empathy and Anger
Authors: Swit Cara S , Harty Seth C
Published: June 2023

This study examined a two-mediator model with both empathy and anger as mediators in the association between children’s normative beliefs about aggression and forms (relational and physical) and functions (reactive and proactive) of aggressive behavior. Ninety-eight children (54% males, M

age
=46.21months, SD = 8.84months) reported their approval of relationally and physically aggressive behaviors depicted in iconic (animation) and enactive (toy figurines) hypothetical scenarios. Children’s aggression, empathy and anger were measured using teacher reports. No main effects of normative beliefs about aggression on the corresponding aggressive behavior were found. Normative beliefs about aggression were negatively associated with empathy and empathy was significantly associated with relational aggression, suggesting that developing social emotional processes mediate the relation between social cognitions and aggression. Anger was associated with aggression, but not normative beliefs about aggression. The findings provide support for the distinction between subtypes of aggressive behavior in young children and the developing social-cognitive and affective processes that influence these behaviors.
Effect of three cycles of recurrent selection for yield in four Spanish landraces of maize
Authors: Ordás Bernardo , Malvar Rosa A. , Revilla Pedro , Ordás Amando
Published: June 2023

Landraces of maize (Zea mays L.) have a variability not found in the elite hybrids due to the bottleneck during selection. There is a renewed interest in using that variability, incorporating alleles for specific traits, or widening the general variability of elite germplasm. In Europe, there is also an interest in the direct use of local landraces by farmer’s associations seeking agriculture that preserves crop diversity. Pre-breeding programs are aimed to reduce the yield gap among landraces and improved materials. In the Misión Biológica de Galicia we have carried out three cycles of a S1 recurrent selection program for yield on four local landraces from Northwestern Spain with the objective of obtaining improved populations that might be cultivated by farmers and that could be used as sources of superior inbred lines. One hundred plants were selfed in each landrace and the S1 families were evaluated in a 10 × 10 simple lattice. The 20 S1 families with the highest grain yields were randomly intercrossed to form the selected population of each landrace. After three cycles of selection, each population and its cycles of selection were evaluated in three locations for two years. All the populations had a consistent yield gain in the first cycle of selection. However, the response in later cycles differed among the populations: one population had a continuous increase of 21% per cycle while two populations had a reduced yield in the last cycles. Our results highlight the need to include secondary traits to avoid unintentional indirect effects. We conclude that, in pre-breeding programs, it could be worthy to use large effective numbers to prevent inbreeding depression, particularly when the objective is the direct use of improved landraces. Another conclusion is that recurrent selection does not seem to be as efficient on European germplasm as it is on Corn Belt varieties. Finally, obtaining valuable new germplasm requires a sustained, long-term effort.
Perspectives on Self-Disclosure of HIV Status among HIV-Infected Adolescents in Harare, Zimbabwe: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Khan Rabia , Garman Emily C. , Sorsdahl Katherine
Published: June 2023

HIV self-disclosure is an important challenge affecting the physical and psychological health of adolescents living with HIV. The study’s aim was to explore the perspectives of HIV-infected adolescents on self-disclosure. Using purposive sampling, 20 adolescents aged 12–19 years were recruited from a HIV care clinic at a tertiary hospital in Harare, Zimbabwe. All were vertically-infected with HIV (HIV transmitted from mother). In depth interviews were conducted to determine participants’ views and experiences of self-disclosure. Interviews were analysed using the framework approach to identify main codes and themes relating to self-disclosure. Adolescents identified stigma and discrimination from peers, as well as lack of HIV knowledge as important barriers to status disclosure. They suggested that community resources such as support groups, media and religion assist them in the disclosure process. HIV status self-disclosure is a challenging task for adolescents, which is affected by individual, interpersonal and social factors. These must be borne in mind to assist with disclosure and facilitate the wellbeing of HIV-positive adolescents.
The Development and Validation of a Questionnaire to Investigate the Association Between Maternal Food Insecurity and Fetal Structural Anomalies: Delphi Procedure and Pilot Study
Authors: Zaçe Drieda , Hoxhaj Ilda , Pasciuto Tina , Diakanthos Maria , Beccia Flavia , Di Pietro Maria Luisa , De Santis Marco
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Food insecurity represents a public health issue that has been associated with poor birth outcomes. We describe the methodological steps followed to structure and validate a questionnaire, which has the potential to contribute to the planning and conduction of future studies investigating the possible association between maternal food insecurity and fetal structural anomalies.

Methods

We first conducted a literature review to structure and validate the questionnaire. Subsequently, we drafted the questionnaire based on the results of this review, further refined through two focus groups. Afterward, the questionnaire was submitted using the Delphi Method to a panel of experts for validation. We conducted a pilot study prior to recruiting the final sample.

Results

The questionnaire consisted of sections covering information about socio-demographic characteristics, women’s health and lifestyle, pregnancy, and food security status. After the first Delphi round, the Content Validity Index (CVI) for each section ranged 0.81–0.85, while after the second round all items had a CVI of 1. The final version of the questionnaire, consisting of 87 items, was pilot tested among 20 participants. Cronbach’s Alpha for each section resulted in values higher than 0.6. The response rate ranged from 78 to 100%. A situation of food security was present in 85% of the participants, while 5% were in a situation of mild food insecurity and 10% of moderate food insecurity.

Conclusion

The questionnaire has appropriate measurement properties, and is an adequate instrument to evaluate the association between maternal food insecurity and fetal structural anomalies.
Hybrid Imbalance: Collaborative Fabrication of Digital Teaching and Learning Material
Authors: Cress Torsten , Kalthoff Herbert
Published: June 2023

Digitization of schools has increased significantly in recent years and is generating a massive innovation boost in education. This development is accompanied by an increased demand for new digital educational objects for schools. The resources required for creating such objects (expert knowledge from teaching contexts versus technological knowledge and infrastructures) are distributed among different groups of actors from digital economy and educational practice. Therefore, the production of such new objects requires new forms of cooperation in the education sector. This article discusses such a hybrid collaboration between a software developer and the teachers of two pilot schools for the creation of interactive learning software. We examine this collaborative relationship in light of different bodies of knowledge that both groups of actors bring to the relationship and that need to be reconciled. We also examine the ways in which the organizational boundaries between schools and companies are temporarily blurred, and the distribution of costs and benefits between the participating groups of actors. By looking at the various dimensions of the cooperative commercial production of these digital objects as well as their (prototypical) experimental stage, the paper analyses the digital transformation of teaching as an innovative social process, structured by economic and educational rationalities.