Direct Inclusion Research Articles

Exploring the characteristics, methods and reporting of systematic reviews with meta-analyses of time-to-event outcomes: a meta-epidemiological study

BackgroundTime-to-event analysis is associated with methodological complexities. Previous research identified flaws in the reporting of time-to-event analyses in randomized trial publications. These hardships impose challenges for meta-analyses of time-to-event outcomes based on aggregate data. We examined the characteristics, reporting and methods of systematic reviews including such analyses.MethodsThrough a systematic search (02/2017-08/2020), we identified 50 Cochrane Reviews with ≥ 1 meta-analysis based on the hazard ratio (HR) and a corresponding random sample (n = 50) from core clinical journals (Medline; 08/02/2021). Data was extracted in duplicate and included outcome definitions, general and time-to-event specific methods and handling of time-to-event relevant trial characteristics.ResultsThe included reviews analyzed 217 time-to-event outcomes (Median: 2; IQR 1–2), most frequently overall survival (41%). Outcome definitions were provided for less than half of time-to-event outcomes (48%). Few reviews specified general methods, e.g., included analysis types (intention-to-treat, per protocol) (35%) and adjustment of effect estimates (12%). Sources that review authors used for retrieval of time-to-event summary data from publications varied substantially. Most frequently reported were direct inclusion of HRs (64%) and reference to established guidance without further specification (46%). Study characteristics important to time-to-event analysis, such as variable follow-up, informative censoring or proportional hazards, were rarely reported. If presented, complementary absolute effect estimates calculated based on the pooled HR were incorrectly calculated (14%) or correct but falsely labeled (11%) in several reviews.ConclusionsOur findings indicate that limitations in reporting of trial time-to-event analyses translate to the review level as well. Inconsistent reporting of meta-analyses of time-to-event outcomes necessitates additional reporting standards.

Deformation ability of modular gymnasium steel inner sleeve all-bolt cross connection joint based on 3D-DIC method

Immense roof loads present a significant hurdle for the functionality of continuously supported modular connection joints in movable modular gymnasium structures. Consequently, we introduced leveraging inner sleeves and bolts to interconnect the modular units of the upper and lower columns, aiming to bolster the strength of inter-unit connections. Despite its noteworthy benefits, the deformation behavior and force distribution characteristics of this novel design remain underexplored. Hence, our study employs three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) measurement to precisely capture the full-field displacement and strain distributions within the core area of this joint. Four distinct joint specimens were designed, and conducted comprehensive static tests, encompassing variables such as the inclusion or exclusion of inner sleeves, reinforcing ribs, and diverse loading directions. 3D-DIC detected subtle deformations and local buckling phenomena, undetectable by the naked eye, and revealed their occurrence patterns. Furthermore, the detections underscore the critical role of weld quality between beams and columns in ensuring the overall safety of the joints. The joint exhibited earlier yielding in beam bending compared to column bending. To delve deeper into this joint, we generated moment-rotation curves leveraging DIC results, deducing that this joint exhibits rigid-joint characteristics. The specimens primarily showed damage modes such as beam-root fractures or member buckling, while the core area remained intact. This observation reinforces the classification of the joint as a full-strength entity. These insights enrich our comprehension of this novel joint and serve as invaluable references and aids for designers.

Prevention of osteoradionecrosis in patients with head and neck cancer treated with radiation therapy.

Osteoradionecrosis is a long-term, serious side effect of head and neck radiation therapy and is associated with significant morbidity and quality of life issues. This paper sought to determine consensus on the prevention and management of osteoradionecrosis by an international panel of multidisciplinary professionals expert in the management of patients with head and neck cancer using a Delphi methodology. Unique to this work is our direct inclusion of the views of patients and carers in our findings. This study reached consensus on the importance of pre and post oral health assessment and education for patients with head and neck cancer. This was also noted by the patients and carers who took part in the study. This work highlights the need for a standardized oral health assessment tool and multidisciplinary care of patients to prevent and manage osteoradionecrosis.

Financial globalization, digital financial system and economic wealth in Africa

The study examines the joint effect of foreign direct investment (FDI) and financial inclusion on economic wealth in a digital system. By employing the dynamic system GMM for a dataset of 54 African economies over the period, 2004–2022, both the FDI and the dimensions of financial inclusion have a positive effect on economic wealth. We also find that FDI and financial inclusion are complements in determining economic wealth. We provide evidence that a digital system induces a relatively greater effect of FDI and financial inclusion on economic wealth compared to its direct effect. The study found that financial inclusion relatively enhances the effect of FDI on economic wealth in countries that operate in a highly industrialized sector of the economy compared to those in a low industrialized economy. In addition, the complementarity effects are more profound in a digitalized technological environment compared to those with less focus on digitalization.

Including Civil Society in Peace Negotiations: The War in the Ukraine Donbas Region (2014–21)

ABSTRACT This article demonstrates how the logics of ‘civil' and ‘interstate' war were applied differently by mediators and the conflict parties to the issue of civil society inclusion during the Minsk negotiations. The resulting direct and indirect inclusion modalities did not succeed in ‘giving people a voice', but ultimately contributed to the failure of negotiations. The article argues that in an interstate war of aggression, direct civil society inclusion ‘at the table’ is likely to be one-sided and counter-productive and therefore should be substituted by creative informal modalities equally applicable to both parties.

Spatial calibration of high-density absorption imaging

The accurate determination of atom numbers is an ubiquitous problem in the field of ultracold atoms. For modest atom numbers, absolute calibration techniques are available, however, for large numbers and high densities, the available techniques neglect many-body scattering processes. Here, a spatial calibration technique for time-of-flight absorption images of ultracold atomic clouds is presented. The calibration is obtained from radially averaged absorption images and we provide a practical guide to the calibration process. It is shown that the calibration coefficient scales linearly with optical density and depends on the absorbed photon number for the experimental conditions explored here. This allows for the direct inclusion of a spatially dependent calibration in the image analysis. For typical ultracold atom clouds the spatial calibration technique leads to corrections in the detected atom number up to ≈12% and temperature up to ≈14% in comparison to previous calibration techniques. The technique presented here addresses a major difficulty in absorption imaging of ultracold atomic clouds and prompts further theoretical work to understand the scattering processes in ultracold dense clouds of atoms for accurate atom number calibration.

Does transition theory matter? A descriptive study of a transition program in Australia based on Duchscher’s Stages of Transition Theory and Transition Shock Model.

Objective: Explore the impact of transition program policy directives grounded in foundational elements of transition theory. Background: Within fast-track health service environments nurse leaders remain committed to improving transition programs that support wellbeing and retain new graduate nurses. Duchscher’s Stages of Transition Theory and Transition Shock model was the framework chosen by the health service nurse leaders to implement in the clinical environment, however, implementing elements can be problematic without sufficient support and clear policy directives. Study Design and methods: Descriptive study using multiple methods in one major national health service that incorporates a number of private (eight) and public (four) hospitals across Australia. Online surveys were distributed to new graduate nurses at one, five and eleven months into the initial transition year. The survey tool was a synthesised adaptation of the Professional Role Transition Risk Assessment Instrument and Professional and Graduate Capability Framework. At the end of the transition year telephone interviews were conducted with the Nurse Managers who were responsible for implementing transition programs policies and processes. Resulting data were summarised using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and a thematic analysis for qualitative data. Results: 158 new graduate nurses returned the online survey and eight Nurse Managers participated in the telephone interviews. As a whole the new graduate registered nurses described feeling accepted during their transition and expressed feeling comfortable when approaching senior staff. They managed challenges of shift work and took time for self-care. The clear majority (88%) of participants reported no plans to leave the profession. Nurse Managers were able, in most clinical areas, to apply transition program policy and directives and enable the implementation of Duchscher’s Stages of Transition as the framework for the transition support initiatives. Retention of new graduates on their wards at the end of the program was determined to be a positive outcome for Nurse Managers. Discussion: A carefully structured Graduate Nurse Transition Program founded on sound theoretically grounded ideology alongside integrated policy directives guided the Nurse Managers implementation of Duchscher’s Stages of Transition Theory and Transition Shock model into practice. Additionally, a dedicated Graduate Nurse Coordinator role with a manageable ratio of graduate nurses was an important component included in the transition program at each participating hospital as it facilitated support of both graduates and Nurse Managers. These positions should be costed into any Graduate Nurse Transition Program. An interesting finding was the consistency in smaller units that were unable to provide or mobilise preceptors for the required allocated mirrored shifts and it was felt this workload management issue impacted the success of graduate transition nurse programs on those units. Conclusions: Implementing policy directives grounded in foundational elements of Duchscher’s Stages of Transition theory and Transition Shock model delivered consistent experiences for new graduate nurses across one major health service that incorporates a number of hospitals across Australia. Data suggested some practical challenges to program implementation for Nurse Managers, including unit/ward size, staffing, and varying levels of understanding of preceptor roles. Implications for research, policy, practice: Introducing formal policy directives that are grounded in strong theoretical frameworks of professional role transition, agreed to and funded by health service nurse leaders are important in guiding a consistent approach across health services in the implementation of evidence-based Graduate Nurse Transition Programs. What is already known about the topic? Duchscher’s foundational research on the Stages of Transition theory and Transition Shock model is applied to inform Graduate Nurse Transition Programs on an international level. There is a current workforce shortage within Australia and internationally. The importance of retention of newly graduated nurses has become a focus for health care services implementing supportive transition programs to prevent new graduates from leaving the profession in the first year. What this paper adds The inclusion of specific policy directives based on Duchscher’s Stages of Transition theory and Transition Shock model provides clear direction to Nurse Managers related to the required implementation steps and time frames to be met during the transition year. Additional Graduate Nurse Coordinator positions, with a manageable ratio of New Graduate Registered Nurses (NGRNs), are important supports for both graduates and Nursing Managers to meet policy directives. Additional positions should be costed within transition programs. Provides additional evidence that well supported newly graduated nurses are likely to remain within the health service.

The relationship between foreign direct investment and financial inclusion in MENA countries: Evidence from the General Method of Moments

The study delves into the nuanced interaction between foreign direct investment (FDI) and financial inclusion in the MENA region, spanning the years 2003 to 2022 and employing the General Method of Moments for rigorous analysis. Its primary objectives are to elucidate how financial inclusion influences FDI and to examine the mediating role of economic growth and inflation as key factors. Key findings reveal a robust positive correlation between financial inclusion and FDI inflows within MENA countries. Specifically, the study uncovers significant relationships between FDI and the various dimensions of financial inclusion, including access, availability, and usage. This underscores the pivotal role of inclusive financial systems in attracting foreign investment. Moreover, the study highlights the symbiotic relationship between economic growth and FDI, indicating that heightened levels of economic prosperity attract greater investment. This underscores the importance of fostering conducive economic conditions to attract foreign capital. Furthermore, the study underscores the critical role of financial inclusion in shaping monetary policy and mitigating investment risks. By facilitating access to capital and reducing uncertainty, financial inclusion promotes transparency and stability, thereby enhancing the attractiveness of foreign markets for investment.

Which Error Components in TRMM-Based Multisatellite Precipitation Estimates Reduce over Chinese Mainland after Official Bias Adjustments: Systematic or Random?

Abstract Climatological calibration algorithm (CCA) and satellite–gauge combination (SG) are two official bias adjustments for satellite precipitation estimates (SPE) in the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA). The CCA is designed for the near-real-time SPEs, while the SG procedure is a final step to merge pure SPEs with gauge observations. This study explored the impacts of CCA and SG on the systematic and random errors of TMPA SPEs. The errors of TMPA version-7 near-real-time products before and after CCA (RT_UC, RT_C), and the research product TMPA 3B42 (V7), were decomposed into systematic and random components, benchmarked by the China Gauge-based Daily Precipitation Analysis (CGDPA). After being calibrated by CCA, RT_C reduced the systematic errors relative to RT_UC over the Chinese mainland, except in the Tibetan Plateau and Tianshan Mountains. However, CCA did not aid in reducing random errors; instead, it even exacerbated the random errors. On the other hand, the SG merging is more effective in reducing systematic errors of SPEs than CCA calibration because of the direct inclusion of simultaneous gauge data from the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC). We also found that SG merging reduced the random errors of pure SPEs over regions with relatively higher elevations. Despite lower random errors in V7 over the complex terrain region, the SG unfavorably increased the random errors over southeastern China. The results reported here may offer valuable insights into the effects of CCA and SG techniques drawn from TMPA, with the potential to advance the development of bias-adjusting algorithms for SPEs in the future.

A Descriptive Assessment of Social Validity Source, Timing, and Direct Consumer Inclusion in Behavior Analytic Research.

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the application of behavioral principles to affect socially important behavior change with social importance, or social validity, being defined by the consumers of the intervention. (Schwartz & Baer, Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis 24, 189-204, 1991) provided several suggestions to improve the implementation of the social validity assessment including engaging in ongoing assessment, increasing the type and psychometric rigor of social validity measures, and extending participation in the social validity assessment to include direct and indirect consumers. The purpose of this article is to explore the current implementation of social validity assessments used in behavioral research. This article also explores key demographics among consumers with disabilities and/or mental health disorders who are included and excluded from social validity assessments. The most common social validity assessment source was author-created and implemented at a single time point. In addition, consumers with disabilities were often excluded from the social validity assessments. The implications of the social validity assessment implementation and consumer exclusion are discussed.

The dynamic nexus between agricultural productivity and renewable energy consumption in BRICS: the role of financial inclusion and foreign direct investment

PurposeThis study aims to examine the impact of renewable energy consumption on agricultural productivity while accounting for the effect of financial inclusion and foreign direct investment in Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) countries during 2000–2020.Design/methodology/approachThe study has used the latest data from World Bank and International Monetary Fund databases. The dependent variable in the study is agricultural productivity. Renewable energy consumption, carbon emissions, financial inclusion and foreign direct investment are independent variables. Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach was used to examine the short-run and long-run impact of renewable energy consumption, carbon emissions, foreign direct investment and financial inclusion on agricultural productivity.FindingsThe findings imply that consumption of renewable energy, carbon emissions and foreign direct investment have a positive impact on agricultural productivity while financial inclusion in terms of access does not seem to have any significant impact on agricultural productivity. Providing farmers, access to financial services can be beneficial, but its usage holds more importance in impacting rural outcomes. The problem lies in the fact that there is still a gap between access and usage of financial services.Research limitations/implicationsPolicymakers should encourage the increase in the usage of renewable energy and become less reliant on non-renewable energy sources which will eventually help in tackling the problems associated with climate change as well as enhance agricultural productivity.Originality/valueMost of the earlier studies were based on tabular analysis without any empirical base to establish the causal relationship between determinants of agricultural productivity and renewable energy consumption. These studies were also limited to a few regions. The study is one of its kind in exploring the severity of various factors that determine agricultural productivity in the context of emerging economies like BRICS while accounting for the effect of financial inclusion and foreign direct investment.

Stakeholders analysis of tourism governance in Dalegan beach ecotourism, East Java, Indonesia

This study was conducted to examine the roles of interconnected stakeholders based on power and interests in Ecotourism Management Policy for Dalegan Beach, Gresik Regency, Indonesia using a qualitative method. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with stakeholders. Furthermore, the identification of stakeholders interest in ecotourism development was based on the strengths, important positions, and influence of stakeholders categorized into several groups. The results showed that there were three categories of stakeholders, namely Main, Supporting, and Key. In the Village Government, Dalegan Beach Tourism Manager acted as a key player and the local community had the main role. Additionally, East Java Province Maritime and Fisheries Service, Gresik Regency Tourism and Creative Economy Office, Culture, Youth and Sports Office, Gresik Regency Public Works and Spatial Planning Service, and Commanditaire Vennotschaap Mahera (CV Mahera), the landowner, were recognized for lacking direct inclusion in policy matters. Different influences were reported on the legal decisions of the government to offer insights to policymakers in tourism governance. Subsequent study could examine the conflicts of interest among stakeholders.

The fractured lens: a controversial revision of the International Classification of Primary Care.

The International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC) has represented the international standard reduction for measuring the content of primary care for over 30 years. In the process of its third revision, its authors, the Wonca International Classification Committee (WICC), delegated a major part of the technical work to a purposely formed Consortium. However, in the process of such revision, standard classification principles and rules have been inconsistently applied with the result that ICPC-3 has been published with major errors and an inconsistent structure. To formally describe and critically appraise the revision process of ICPC-3. The formal review of ICPC-3 performed by an expert group within WICC and commissioned by the Executive Council of Wonca Europe is presented in abridged form. ICPC-3 as currently presented introduces major departures from formal classification principles and rules, besides other major errors and inconsistencies, all of which are listed and described. Major changes in ICPC-3 defy categorisation and conceptualisation standards. ICPC-3 now represents an untested departure from international standard presentations, without a formal academic base. The direct inclusion of measures of functioning in a classification of reasons for encounter and health problems fails to address the dichotomy of these domains, the boundaries of and relationships between which are not satisfactorily resolved by the system. Analysis of ICPC-3 data will require the development and implementation of alternative, as yet undefined, models of the relationships between disease and health. By including different domains without resolving ambiguity, and by splitting function from other body systems, ICPC-3 becomes an internally fractured instrument.

Effects of pyrolysis bio-oil derived from palm kernel shell on modified bitumen properties

Economical and environmental friendly materials that able to replace petroleum based binder has become an urgent demand in road industry. Bio oil from palm oil waste is relatively more economical and has the potential to used as bitumen replacement as bio asphalt. The performance of bio asphalt derived from different source and process to produce bio oils are varies. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of palm kernel shell bio-oil in terms of physical properties, the chemical functional group, and the morphology. The bitumen properties were evaluated by the conventional physical tests, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. The palm kernel shell bio-oil was added into the bitumen by weight of bitumen at 0%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% and blended using mechanical stirrer. From the conventional physical test, it was found that bio-oil modified bitumen increased in penetration and ductility with decreased softening point. This indicate that direct addition of bio oil soften the modified bitumen. The change of the functional group in FTIR is significantly influenced by the increasing content of bio-oil. The morphology of the modified bitumen showed inhomogenous surface with noticeable wrinkles as the bio oil content increase. Based on the physicochemical evaluation, 3% bio oil replacement passed all the physical tests requirement with less changes in FTIR result. Therefore, 3% bio oil content is proposed for further tests for direct inclusion of bio oil into bitumen for local road construction utilization.

A research map analysis of methods to improve the happiness of Japanese older adults based on the context of big data

All articles must contain an abstract. The abstract text should be formatted using 10 point Times or Times New Roman and indented 25 mm from the left margin. Leave 10 mm space after the abstract before you begin the main text of your article, starting on the same page as the abstract. The abstract should give readers concise information about the content of the article and indicate the main results obtained and conclusions drawn. The abstract is not part of the text and should be complete in itself; no table numbers, figure numbers, references or displayed mathematical expressions should be included. It should be suitable for direct inclusion in abstracting services and should not normally exceed 200 words in a single paragraph. Since contemporary information-retrieval systems rely heavily on the content of titles and abstracts to identify relevant articles in literature searches, great care should be taken in constructing both.

Prediction of tumor growth at the microscopic level through mathematical modeling

All articles must contain an abstract. The abstract text should be formatted using 10 point Times or Times New Roman and indented 25 mm from the left margin. Set the pre-paragraph to 0 pounds and the post-break to 22.7 pounds. Starting on the same page as the abstract. The abstract should give readers concise information about the content of the article and indicate the main results obtained and conclusions drawn. The abstract is not part of the text and should be complete in itself; no table numbers, figure numbers, references or displayed mathematical expressions should be included. It should be suitable for direct inclusion in abstracting services and should not normally exceed 200 words in a single paragraph. Since contemporary information-retrieval systems rely heavily on the content of titles and abstracts to identify relevant articles in literature searches, great care should be taken in constructing both. To gain valuable insights into the growth of microscopic tumors, which is crucial for advancing cancer research, scientists employ mathematical modeling techniques. These models help researchers to comprehend how cells interact, proliferate, and organize spatially within tumors, ultimately aiding in developing better treatment strategies, including personalized medicine. A recent study introduced a novel approach using the Occam Plausibility Algorithm (OPAL) for modeling tumor growth. OPAL is a probabilistic framework adept at generating and refining hypotheses based on complex datasets. In this study, researchers integrated two existing models, the Proliferation Invasion Model (PIM) and the Mathematical Phase Field Model (MPFM), to create a comprehensive understanding of microscopic tumor growth dynamics. In this research, we have employed a literature review methodology to explore how researchers utilize three various mathematical modeling techniques, including the Occam Plausibility Algorithm (OPAL), to delve deeply into the growth dynamics of microscopic tumors. The conclusions drawn emphasize the significant potential of mathematical modeling in advancing scientists understanding of microscopic tumor growth.

The interplay between Sleep, neuroplasticity, and health: Insights from a multi-level analysis

All articles must contain an abstract. The abstract text should be formatted using 10 point Times or Times New Roman and indented 25 mm from the left margin. Set the pre-paragraph to 0 pounds and the post-break to 22.7 pounds. Starting on the same page as the abstract. The abstract should give readers concise information about the content of the article and indicate the main results obtained and conclusions drawn. The abstract is not part of the text and should be complete in itself; no table numbers, figure numbers, references or displayed mathematical expressions should be included. It should be suitable for direct inclusion in abstracting services and should not normally exceed 200 words in a single paragraph. Since contemporary information-retrieval systems rely heavily on the content of titles and abstracts to identify relevant articles in literature searches, great care should be taken in constructing both. As the issue of sleep deprivation worsens, worries regarding its wider effects on societys health are raised. The detrimental effects of sleep deprivation and lack of sleep on attention, memory, and neuroplasticity have been the subject of several research. The complicated interplay between sleep and neuroplasticity is examined in this research from both a macro and micro level, with a focus on attention and memory. The study also emphasizes how important environmental factors like exercise and food are in affecting sleep patterns and neuroplasticity. These discoveries not only give sleep and neurological research a fresh angle and biological foundation, but they also offer up new options for therapeutic care. Additionally, they offer a theoretical framework based on neurobiology as well as helpful advice for creating public policy.

Estimating post‐Depositional Detrital Remanent Magnetization (pDRM) Effects: A Flexible Lock‐In Function Approach

AbstractThe primary data sources for reconstructing the geomagnetic field of the past millennia are archeomagnetic and sedimentary paleomagnetic data. Sediment records, in particular, are crucial in extending the temporal and spatial coverage of global geomagnetic field models, especially when archeomagnetic data are sparse. The exact process on how sediment data acquire magnetization including post‐depositional detrital remanent magnetization is still poorly understood. However, it is widely accepted that these effects lead to a smoothing of the magnetic signal and offsets with respect to the sediment age. They impede the direct inclusion of sediment records in global geomagnetic field modeling. As a first step, we model these effects for a single sediment core using a new class of flexible parameterized lock‐in functions. The parameters of the lock‐in function are estimated by the maximum likelihood method using archeomagnetic data as a reference. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated through synthetic tests. Our results demonstrate that the proposed method is capable of estimating the parameters associated with the distortion caused by the lock‐in process.

Functional Effects of Hydrolyzable Tannins on the Growth, Health Status, and Hepatopancreas Histology of Pacific White Shrimp Penaeus vannamei Reared under Commercial Pond Conditions

In the present study, the functional effects of hydrolyzable tannins (HT) extracted from the sweet chestnut tree Castanea sativa were evaluated either by directly incorporating them into the diet or by using a top-dressing application on the growth, body composition, total hemocyte counts, lysozyme activity, and histomorphological condition of the hepatopancreas of Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei. Shrimp was confined in hapa nets installed within commercial outdoor ponds for 90 days. Eight experimental diets included a basal formulated diet (BD) with varying inclusion levels of HT (BD-0%, BD-0.1%, BD-0.2%, and BD-0.3%), a low fish meal (FM) diet with reduction on the inclusion level of FM from 10% to 7.5% and labeled as LFM 0.3% HT, a top-dressing HT application (TC) on basal diet (BDTD-0.4% HT), and a commercial diet (CDTD-0% HT and CDTD-0.4% HT). The final body weight (FBW), percentage weight gain (PWG), thermal growth coefficient (TGC), average daily growth (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were significantly better in the group of shrimp fed with BD-0.3% HT compared to BD-0% HT. The administration of CD-0.4% HT was able to enhance the growth performance of shrimp compared to BD-0% HT and CD without HT. Higher protein and fat contents were found in the body of shrimp fed with graded levels of HT compared to shrimp fed with BD or CD without HT. Numerically, the direct inclusion and top-dressing process of HT increased the total hemocyte count and lysozyme activity in shrimp. Both BDTD-0.4% HT and CDTD-0.4% HT were also able to support a better hepatopancreatic condition with reference to histomorphology and integrity. These results indicated that BD-0.3% HT inclusion could significantly improve the growth performance and prevent the alteration in health and histomorphological condition of the hepatopancreas of shrimp P. vannamei cultured in hapa nets under commercial farm conditions, but also 0.4% HT could be used as a supplementation dosage for the top-dressing process in diets.

Dispersive transverse waves for a strain-limiting continuum model

It is well known that propagation of waves in homogeneous linearized elastic materials of infinite extent is not dispersive. Motivated by the work of Rubin, Rosenau, and Gottlieb, we develop a generalized continuum model for the response of strain-limiting materials that are dispersive. Our approach is based on both a direct inclusion of Rivlin–Ericksen tensors in the constitutive relations and writing the linearized strain in terms of the stress. As a result, we derive two coupled generalized improved Boussinesq-type equations in the stress components for the propagation of pure transverse waves. We investigate the traveling wave solutions of the generalized Boussinesq-type equations and show that the resulting ordinary differential equations form a Hamiltonian system. Linearly and circularly polarized cases are also investigated. In the case of unidirectional propagation, we show that the propagation of small-but-finite amplitude long waves is governed by the complex Korteweg–de Vries (KdV) equation.