bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Membrane Vesicles Can Contribute to Cellulose Degradation by Teredinibacter turnerae, a Cultivable Intracellular Endosymbiont of Shipworms
Authors: Gasser Mark T. , Liu Annie , Altamia Marvin A. , Brensinger Bryan R. , Brewer Sarah L. , Flatau Ron , Hancock Eric R. , Preheim Sarah P. , Filone Claire Marie , Distel Daniel L. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTTeredinibacter turnerae is a cultivable cellulolytic Gammaproteobacterium (Cellvibrionaceae) that commonly occurs as an intracellular endosymbiont in the gills of wood‐eating bivalves of the family Teredinidae (shipworms). The genome of T. turnerae encodes a broad range of enzymes that deconstruct cellulose, hemicellulose and pectin and contribute to wood (lignocellulose) digestion in the shipworm gut. However, the mechanisms by which T. turnerae secretes lignocellulolytic enzymes are incompletely understood. Here, we show that T. turnerae cultures grown on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) produce membrane vesicles (MVs) that include a variety of proteins identified by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) as carbohydrate‐active enzymes (CAZymes) with predicted activities against cellulose, hemicellulose and pectin. Reducing sugar assays and zymography confirm that these MVs exhibit cellulolytic activity, as evidenced by the hydrolysis of CMC. Additionally, these MVs were enriched with TonB‐dependent receptors, which are essential to carbohydrate and iron acquisition by free‐living bacteria. These observations indicate a potential role for MVs in lignocellulose utilisation by T. turnerae in the free‐living state, suggest possible mechanisms for host–symbiont interaction and may be informative for commercial applications such as enzyme production and lignocellulosic biomass conversion.
Implementing sustainable practices to reduce wastage and costs in adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Gunda Deepika , Bernard Maria‐Pia , Borschmann Michael 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundSurgical waste presents significant environmental and economic challenges in healthcare. Adenotonsillectomy, a common otolaryngological procedure, contributes to this issue. There is limited research on sustainability measures in adenotonsillectomy, and no studies have specifically identified waste reduction strategies for this operation in a general ENT unit. This study aimed to identify sustainable practices for waste reduction in adenotonsillectomy surgeries and quantify the extent of waste reduction in terms of weight and cost.MethodsThe items opened and waste produced during adenotonsillectomies in a single institution were documented, including weights and costs. After reviewing the actual materials used by otolaryngologists and identifying potentially avoidable waste, a low‐waste setup was designed. Waste weight and costs were evaluated post‐implementation and compared with baseline values.ResultsSeveral steps to reduce wastage in adenotonsillectomy surgeries were identified, including the elimination of surgical drapes and gowns. This resulted in a waste reduction of over 60%, with an average reduction in weight per case of 1.114 kg. The estimated reduction over 1 year for 294 cases was 327.52 kg. The mean reduction in material costs per case was $41.67, with an extrapolated annual savings of $12 250.98 for 294 cases.ConclusionImplementing sustainable practices in adenotonsillectomy surgeries can significantly reduce waste and healthcare facility cost, providing both environmental and economic benefits.
Between applause and arm crossing: Public reception of within‐group apologies and the role of system justification
Authors: Yu Yeongjin , Jung Taeyun 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWithin‐group apologies restore important values and afford victims their dignity; however, the system justification motive may cause group authorities to hesitate in apologizing or to include system‐justifying expressions to soothe the general public. Two studies were conducted, both on‐campus (Study 1) and off‐campus (Study 2), to empirically illustrate the public reception of within‐group apologies (victim‐focused and system‐challenging) and silence. The results indicate that higher levels of system justification are associated with more favorable attitudes toward responses from authority. For the general public (Study 2), high‐level justifiers supported the government's silence as much as the victim‐focused apology, maintaining trust despite perceiving unfairness. Conversely, low‐level justifiers, though negative overall, supported victim‐focused apology more than system‐challenging apology or silence. Additionally, the general public in Study 2 favored the victim‐focused apology over the system‐challenging one, rendering system‐justifying expressions unnecessary. We propose that authorities prioritize apologies emphasizing dignity and respect for victims, instead of fearing potential negative reception influenced by the system justification motive.
Efficacy of anal duct ligation and muscle closure: A novel sphincter‐preserving surgical technique for fistula‐in‐ano
Authors: Kang Yoon Hyung , Hyun Keehoon , Cho Dong Ho , Lee Jong‐Kyun , Hwang Do‐Yeon 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAimAlthough various sphincter‐preserving techniques exist for treating anal fistulas, none have demonstrated clear superiority. Therefore, the aim of this study was to introduce a novel sphincter‐preserving technique for anal duct ligation and muscle closure (ALMC) and analyse its perioperative outcomes.MethodThe data for patients who underwent ALMC for fistula‐in‐ano at Seoul Song Do Hospital between 2009 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics, intraoperative information and postoperative outcomes were assessed. The main outcomes were recurrence and wound healing. Recurrence was defined as the presence of a fistula tract or discharge more than 12 weeks after the primary surgery after achieving complete healing. Faecal incontinence was also investigated clinically.ResultsOverall, 556 patients (84.0% male; mean age 41.7 ± 12.3 years) underwent ALMC. Among these, 152 (27.3%) had a history of fistula surgery and 261 (46.9%) had suprasphincteric fistulas. Fistula‐in‐ano recurred in 33 patients (5.9%), wound healing was delayed in 97 (17.4%) and faecal incontinence was observed in 12 (2.2%). The mean follow‐up duration was 10.0 ± 16.0 months, and the average duration until recurrence was 13.8 ± 10.7 months. The proportion of suprasphincteric fistulas was similar in those who experienced recurrence and those who did not (57.6% vs. 46.3%, respectively; p = 0.239). The proportion of suprasphincteric fistulas in the delayed wound healing group was slightly higher, although the differences were not statistically significant (56.7% vs. 44.9%, respectively; p = 0.054).ConclusionALMC appeared to be a safe and feasible option for treating anal fistulas, providing good perioperative outcomes, particularly when sphincter preservation was crucial.
Transnational cultural identity through everyday practices of foraging and consuming local wild plants among Vietnamese migrants in Japan and Germany
Authors: Dinh Vien T.T. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWild plant consumption confronts a decline in terms of natural resources, traditional knowledge and mainstream engagement, despite efforts to integrate it into global diets. However, migrants, whose culinary traditions and lifestyle are often grounded in foraging practices, represent an underexplored resource in this regard. Therefore, the study aims to explore the dynamics behind migrants gathering and consuming wild edible plants in their host environments and how their related food knowledge is transferred and reproduced in this new milieu. Based on 36 semi‐structured interviews and ethnobotanical participant observation conducted during 2021–2023, the paper focuses on everyday foraging practices among Vietnamese migrants in Japan and Germany. The results reveal that foraging practices are driven by migrants' aspirations to create a sense of place through daily interaction with local, seasonal, and wild plants that often substitute for culturally significant ingredients in their home cuisine. As settlement progresses, migrant's foraging valuation gradually shifts toward intrinsic meanings, including cultural continuity, welfare maintenance, and social connections, rather than culinary imperatives. This integration of migrant traditions and utilization of oft‐neglected plant species also contributes to biocultural diversity, facilitating migrant community building and the resurgence of wild cuisine.
A sociocultural perspective on AI assistive technology for older adults' social connectedness: A scoping review
Authors: You Soobin , Choi Heejeong 
Published: December 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis scoping review systematically analyzes empirical research evidence on the acceptance and effectiveness of AI technology for older adults' social connectedness with a focus on sociocultural factors from an ecological perspective.BackgroundThe global aging population faces significant challenges, including physical decline and social isolation. AI assistive technologies may offer promising solutions to support independent daily activities and improve social connectedness with family and community. Various facilitators and barriers were known to influence the acceptance and effectiveness of these technologies in promoting the well‐being of older adults.MethodUsing Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) framework, we examined 30 peer‐reviewed articles identified from three major databases (Web of Science, Embase, and IEEE Xplore).ResultsThe review revealed a range of research characteristics and technologies involved. AI technologies such as social robots and telepresence systems were effective in reducing loneliness and enhancing social connectedness. Key factors affecting the technology acceptance and effectiveness included technological features, sociodemographic characteristics of individual users (e.g., age, health status, gender, educational background and prior experience with technology, marital status, and living arrangements), and cultural relevance.ConclusionA sociocultural perspective is crucial to understand heterogeneity in technology use and its effectiveness among older adults.ImplicationsFuture research should focus on customization based on cultural relevance, sustainable effects, and robust research methodologies to develop effective and inclusive AI technologies for older adults and their families.
The pathogenic role of calcitonin gene‐related peptide and predictors of new‐onset migraine and long‐term outcomes after transcatheter atrial septal defect closure
Authors: Su Tzu‐Hsuan , Wang Jou‐Kou , Kuo Ping‐Hung , Chang Shu‐Hui , Chiou Lih‐Chu , Lee Wang‐Tso , Fan Pi‐Chuan 
Published: December 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate factors associated with new‐onset migraine (NOM) after transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) closure and predictors of unremitting NOM. The pathogenic role of migraine biomarkers such as calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) were also assessed.BackgroundNew‐onset migraine has been observed after transcatheter ASD closure. Neuropeptides like CGRP and NPY stored both in the brain and heart are implicated in migraine pathophysiology. The potential role of those migraine biomarkers in NOM, as well as the risk factors and long‐term outcomes of NOM, remain largely unknown.MethodsWe enrolled patients without previous migraine who underwent successful transcatheter ASD closure between 2001 and 2013. The parameters of transthoracic echocardiography, and plasma CGRP and NPY levels measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, were collected prospectively before and after ASD closure, and compared between patients with NOM and those without. Predictors of NOM were assessed. Telephone interviews were performed in 2022 to assess migraine status. Clinical and procedural characteristics were compared between patients with unremitting migraine and those with transient migraine that remitted within 1 year.ResultsOf the 212 patients (median age, 21 years; 75.9% female), 43 (20.3%) had NOM. Potential predictors of NOM included a young age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.98, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.96–0.99; p = 0.040), large ASD size (aOR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01–1.14; p = 0.022), and transient residual shunting after closure (aOR 2.78, 95% CI 1.05–7.36; p = 0.039). Post‐closure plasma CGRP levels, but not NPY levels, were significantly higher than pre‐closure levels (47.9 vs. 38.0 pg/mL, p = 0.023) among patients with NOM. Of the 27 patients with migraine who reported their migraine status at a median 14‐year follow‐up, 13 (48.1%) had unremitting migraine. Patients with unremitting migraine were more likely to have a smaller device‐to‐ASD size ratio (1.21 vs. 1.33, p = 0.039) and a larger pulmonary flow‐to‐systemic flow ratio (2.9 vs. 2.3, p = 0.012) than those with transient migraine.ConclusionsCalcitonin gene‐related peptide may play a pathogenic role in NOM after transcatheter ASD closure. A young age, large ASD size, and transient residual shunting potentially predict migraine occurrence after ASD closure. NOM not reaching remission for years may result from a significant shunt before closure.
Impact of the 2023 ACR/EULAR Classification Criteria on START2 Antiphospholipid Registry
Authors: Aiello Anna , Sarti Luca , Sandri Gilda , Poli Daniela , Sivera Piera , Barcellona Doris , Prisco Domenico , Pizzini Attilia Maria , Vercillo Giuseppe , Antonucci Emilia , Palareti Gualtiero , Pengo Vittorio ,   the Start2 Antiphospholipid Registry collaborators
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe recently published ACR/EULAR classification criteria score (3 points or more) both clinical and laboratory criteria to define the presence of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). The clinical criteria have been better defined while laboratory criteria remain the same [lupus anticoagulant (LA), anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti ß2‐Glycoprotein I (aß2GPI) antibodies] but with different impact (points) on the classification of patients. APS is excluded if more than 3 years separate positive test for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) and clinical manifestation.MethodsThe present study evaluates how many patients would be excluded by the new criteria among those enrolled as APS in the START 2 antiphospholipid registry. The analysis includes 380 patients (274 APS and 106 carriers).ResultsOf 274 patients classified as APS, 118 (43%) did not match the new ACR/EULAR criteria for various reasons. First, the determination of aCL and aß2GPI antibodies was performed by automated instrumentations not allowed in the new criteria. Second, laboratory test score was less than 3 and this was due to an isolated IgM aCL or IgM aß2GPI in most cases and to isolated LA unconfirmed after 12 weeks in few cases. Third, 2 patients had a positive laboratory tests more than 3 years after the clinical event.Of the 106 carriers, 62% had aCL and aß2GPI determined by ELISA thus meeting the ACL/EULAR laboratory criteria but were negative for clinical criteria.DiscussionThis study shows that many patients classified as APS in the START 2 registry do not match the classification using the new ACR/EULAR criteria.
How European integration rationales shape reintegration assistance in Guinea and Senegal
Authors: Jurt Luzia , Odermatt Eveline 
Published: December 2024

AbstractTo date, discussions on migrants' integration and returnees' reintegration have been kept apart. With the increased salience of return migration, reintegration schemes have gained importance, not only for European countries aiming at preventing further migration after return but also for migrants' countries of origin. However, research on reintegration from the perspective of transnational migration governance is still scarce. This article thus contributes to the advancement of theoretical approaches to return and reintegration policies by showing how core rationales of migrant integration in Europe spill over to the context of reintegration beyond the continent. Drawing from an ethnographic research project on gender, return migration and reintegration in West Africa, we compare the European key actors' perceptions of (re)integration, in the cases of Germany and Switzerland, with those of their counterparts in Guinea and Senegal. Moreover, we touch on how the returnees and their families and communities perceive the key actors' definitions of reintegration. Our results show the different ways in which Eurocentric expectations and rationales of migrant integration come to shape their reintegration support schemes in the countries of return. These include the narrowly defined target groups, the paradigm of ‘promoting and demanding’, which currently gravitates towards the principle of ‘demanding and controlling’, a high priority on economic (re)integration, and accountability.
Conflict‐free tow train routing in just‐in‐time assembly lines
Authors: Gündüz Mengübaş Gül , Sörensen Kenneth , Kotan Muhammed 
Published: December 2024

AbstractConflicts among tow trains pose a significant challenge in just‐in‐time manufacturing systems, impacting both safety and efficiency. This paper proposes an innovative solution to achieve conflict‐free tow train routing. In our approach, the production layout is partitioned into “pixels.” The A‐star (A*) algorithm is then employed on this pixel‐based layout to create a distance matrix between workstations. Subsequently, a simulated annealing heuristic optimizes tow train routes to deliver parts demanded at the workstations. Additionally, a conflict detection algorithm identifies collisions among tow trains on the pixel layout, which are then resolved through two distinct conflict avoidance strategies. The algorithms are implemented and tested on a set of benchmark instances, demonstrating their effectiveness.
Adapting a Self‐Concept Questionnaire for Students With Intellectual Disabilities: An Inclusive Research Approach
Authors: Yepes‐Baldó Montserrat , Romeo Marina , Codina Núria , Pallarés Gemma 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundGiven the significant gap in tailored assessment tools, this research seeks to adapt the Self‐concept (Form 5‐AF5) questionnaire for young students with intellectual disabilities, employing an inclusive approach.MethodTwenty‐three disability experts initially assessed questionnaire suitability, leading to revisions for clarity. Cognitive interviews with eight students with intellectual disabilities clarified questions, and both original and adapted questionnaires were administered to students with and without intellectual disabilities for equivalence verification.ResultsThe adapted scale showed good internal consistency. The correlation between scores of students without intellectual disabilities on original and adapted questionnaires exceeded 0.70. Students with intellectual disabilities reported higher levels of academic self‐concept than their peers without intellectual disabilities.ConclusionsThe adaptation of the Self‐concept (Form 5‐AF5) questionnaire in this research facilitates the comparison of diverse student populations, as demonstrated by the alignment of results between the original and adapted questionnaires in the general student population.
The Proof is in the Pudding: Workers Care About Evidence‐Based Diversity Cues
Authors: De Cock Valerie , Celik Pinar , Toma Claudia 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTOrganizations promote their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) while facing increasing public scrutiny concerning their progress in the domain. This research examined how value‐based (i.e., DEI statements) and evidence‐based (i.e., progress in minority representation) diversity cues, together or separately, influence workers' company perceptions (perceived corporate hypocrisy) and individual outcomes (inclusion, organizational commitment, person‐organization fit, negative affect, and turnover intentions). The goal was to assess the relative importance of these cues. Two studies were conducted. In Study 1 (N = 440), participants reacted to a hypothetical situation in a 2 (value‐based cue: diversity talk present vs. absent) × 2 (evidence‐based cue: diversity progress present vs. absent) experimental design. In Study 2 (N = 242), value‐based and evidence‐based cues were measured, and participants were reporting about their organization. Our results show that evidence‐based diversity cues systematically influenced workers' perceptions of the organization and their work‐related experiences, while the role of the value‐based diversity cues remained ambiguous. Moreover, perceived corporate hypocrisy mediated the effect of evidence‐based diversity cues on workers' experiences. Our research highlights the key, but often underestimated, role of evidence‐based diversity cues for workers and raises questions about the conditions under which value‐based diversity cues might be effective.
A Mixture Transition Distribution Modeling for Higher‐Order Circular Markov Processes
Authors: Ogata Hiroaki , Shiohama Takayuki 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis study considers the stationary higher‐order Markov process for circular data by employing the mixture transition distribution modeling. The underlying circular transition distribution is based on Wehrly and Johnson's bivariate joint circular models. The structures of the circular autocorrelation function, together with the circular partial autocorrelation function, are investigated. They are found to be similar to those of the autocorrelation and partial autocorrelation functions of the real‐valued autoregressive process when the underlying binding density has zero sine moments. The validity of the model is assessed by applying it to some Monte Carlo simulations and real directional data.
CAViaR Model Selection via Adaptive Lasso
Authors: Cai Zongwu , Fang Ying , Tian Dingshi 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThe estimation and model selection of the conditional autoregressive value at risk (CAViaR) model may be computationally intensive and even impractical when the true order of the quantile autoregressive components or the dimension of the other regressors are high. On the other hand, conventional automatic variable selection methods cannot be directly applied to this problem because the quantile lag components are latent. In this paper, we propose a two‐step approach to select the optimal CAViaR model. The estimation procedure consists of an approximation of the conditional quantile in the first step, followed by an adaptive Lasso penalized quantile regression of the regressors as well as the estimated quantile lag components in the second step. We show that under some regularity conditions, the proposed adaptive Lasso penalized quantile estimators enjoy the oracle properties. Finally, the proposed method is illustrated by a Monte Carlo simulation study and applied to analyzing the daily data of the S& P 500 return series.