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This is the introduction to TRANSIT 14.1's special section on the representation of borders and borderlands in the literary and cultural landscapes of Germany and Poland. We have brought together scholarship, excerpts from an essayistic historical study, a creative essay, a poem, and two translated chapters from a Polish novel that explore past and present German and Polish borderlands through the lensof their entangled history. Focusing on works from different time periods, ranging from the end of the Second World War until today, the contributions examine past and present German-Polish borderlands from diverse angles, situating them historically while also underlining their significance within a global future.

Translator's Introduction to Inga Iwasiów's Bambino

Invasive earthworms create widespread ecological changes after they are introduced. Non-native earthworms are transported mainly through anthropogenically-mediated activities, including fishing, agriculture, horticulture, and development. Here, we review the ways in which non-native earthworms are transported to new environments. Our conceptual framework involves invasion filters (human activities filter and climate & edaphic filter) that constrain which non-native earthworm species are transported within specific contexts. Differences in earthworms' ecological behaviors, life cycle, and physiological tolerance of environmental conditions influence which species are transported and which regions can successfully be invaded. Within the human activities filter, we utilize the six invasion pathways that follow a continuum of human intention as laid out by Hulme et al. (J Appl Ecol 45(2):403–414, 2008). Five of these pathways are associated with human activity. Of these, the release, escape, and contaminant pathways are associated with commodities, and the stowaway plus corridor pathways with transportation infrastructure. Major human activities that transport invasive earthworms include the discarding of fishing bait, agriculture, composting and horticulture, and development (e.g., the construction of roads, trails, houses, or campgrounds), but the magnitudes that specific activities transport earthworms are vastly understudied. We conclude that more research needs to be conducted to understand the methods that transport non-native earthworms in order to slow their spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Human Nature, Hobbes argues for what I call the ‘Great Deception Thesis': “whatsoever accidents or qualities our senses make us think there be in the world, they are not there, but are seemings and apparitions only”. I argue that both the thesis and Hobbes’ arguments for it have been misunderstood. Rather than arguing for indirect realism or a primary/secondary quality distinction, Hobbes claims that no sensory experience resembles its object. I conclude by showing how Hobbes can account for the usefulness of images even in the absence of any resemblance between those images and the objects that cause them. If I am right, Hobbes presents a distinctive and intriguing theory of perception, one that emphasizes the dynamic nature of experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This chapter (Quadrupole Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry) is a contribution to the Geostandards and Geoanalytical Research Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis – an online textbook that is a fully revised and updated edition of Handbook of the Silicate Rock Analysis (P. J. Potts, 1987, Blackie, Glasgow). Chapter 7 (from Section 2 of the handbook dealing with techniques for the determination of major and trace elements) describes both the history of ICP‐MS, including development of the plasma sampling interface and the operation of modern ICP‐MS instrumentation. Given their central importance to ICP‐MS operation, ion extraction through the sampling interface, ion transmission, ion separation (with a particular focus on the quadrupole mass filter) and counting are given particular attention. Discussion of the analytical characteristics of ICP‐MS particularly focusses on spectroscopic interferences (and their mitigation). Finally, an overview of geochemical analysis by ICP‐MS considers drift correction, calibration strategies, and laser ablation microsampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piscine orthoreovirus‐1 (PRV‐1) is a prevalent agent in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and the causative agent of heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI), an important disease in farmed Atlantic salmon. Investigations into the introduction and dissemination routes of PRV‐1 in a field setting have been limited. This study aimed to better understand PRV‐1 infections and HSMI‐associated mortality under field conditions. We tracked introduction and spread of PRV‐1 over one production cycle in a geographically isolated region in Norwegian aquaculture. From five sites, a total of 32 virus isolates were sequenced and genogrouped. The results indicated multiple introductions of PRV‐1 to the area, but also revealed a high level of genetic homogeneity among the virus variants. The variants differed from that of the previous production cycle at two out of three sites investigated, suggesting that synchronized fallowing can be a useful tool for preventing dissemination of PRV‐1 between generations of fish. Exposure to PRV‐1 at the freshwater stage was identified as a potential source of introduction. A low level of HSMI‐associated mortality was observed at all sites, with the onset of mortality showing some variation across PRV‐1 genogroups. However, the study highlighted the complexity of associating viral genogroups with mortality in a field setting. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights into PRV‐1 dynamics in a real‐world aquaculture setting, offering potential strategies for disease management and prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report first records of the cambarid crayfish Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852) in Nova Scotia, Canada. This species is native to northern Mexico and the southern United States and has been introduced to all continents except Australia and Antarctica. An established population of P. clarkii was found concentrated in one area of Three Mile Lake, a small freshwater lake in Halifax County, which builds upon existing evidence that this "warm-water" species can establish in cold temperate regions. We discuss possible introduction mechanisms and impacts, as well as potential measures to better prevent and detect future invasions of freshwater species in Nova Scotia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-indigenous mysid Neomysis americana (S.I. Smith, 1873) is reported here, for the first time, along the Bay of Biscay in the Loire estuary, France in 2021. This species, originating from North-American estuaries, was initially discovered in Europe in 2010 (Wadden Sea) and first reported in France in 2017 (Seine estuary). The absence of long-term monitoring makes it impossible to know precisely the arrival of this non-indigenous species in the Loire estuary. However, this species is present in high abundance, suggesting an arrival prior to 2021. Its introduction might even be prior to or concomitant to the Seine estuary discovery, suggesting an introduction via the ballast water of the commercial vessels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Currently, the use of an interdisciplinary approach based on a combination of traditional introduction methods and clonal micropropagation techniques makes it possible to solve one of the key problems of introduction – the establishment of bioresource collections consisting of selected plant accessions with valuable agronomic traits and resistance to unfavorable urban environments. Materials and methods. A plant introduction study resulted in identifying seven specimens of Malus niedzwetzkyana Dieck with resilience to urban environments, high rate of crown development, and longevity. They served as source material for the development of a clonal propagation protocol and in vitro preservation of selected genotypes of this species. Results. It was shown for M. niedzwetzkyana that the most favorable time for taking its plant material for introduction into in vitro culture is the beginning of the active growth of vegetative shoots after flowering. The most optimal sterilization technique for such plant material was a stepwise regime using alcohol, sodium hypochlorite, and silver nitrate: it provided from 50 to 70% of sterile explants and the maximum percentage of meristem proliferation. Combining 0.8 mg/L of benzylaminopurine (BAP) with 0.14 mg/L of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) at the stage of microclonal propagation ensured a significant increase of the reproduction coefficient (on average up to 5.3 ± 0.7) and an improvement in morphometric parameters of microshoots; the maximum frequency of shoot proliferation was 100%. The yield of shoots adapted to ex vitro conditions was 90%. Conclusion. The developed clonal micropropagation protocol made it possible to introduce selected M. niedzwetzkyana forms into in vitro culture and reproduce them in order to set up a resource base for further fundamental and applied research into the system of the genus Malus Mill.

We analysed the records of Helix lutescens in Ukraine from the 19th century to the present. We found that the range of this species has expanded significantly. At the beginning of the 21st century, H. lutescens was discovered for the first time in six administrative regions of Western (Transcarpathian), Central (Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Kirovohrad) and Eastern (Donetsk) Ukraine. The expansion of the range of H. lutescens due to anthropochory is also the case in other European countries, as evidenced by literature data and some observations in the iNaturalist citizen science database.

Relevance. This article presents the results of breeding work and the introduction of the Mesoamerican culture Spanish sage or chia (Salvia hispanica L.), which is currently one of the most popular pseudo-grain crops from the family of Lamiaceae in Western countries due to its unique seeds rich in nutrients, PUFA, dietary fiber and antioxidants. In 2009, the European Union considered the seeds of the plant to be a promising type of food. There are only 17 registered genotypes of culture in the world, in the collection of GRR VIR there are two forms obtained from European countries. There are no registered varieties of Spanish sage in the state register of breeding achievements approved for use in the territory of the Russian Federation. The research of this culture is limited only by the biological side: the study of morphobiological features, its use for decorative purposes.Material and methodology. The research was conducted in the educational and experimental farm of the Omsk State Agrarian University in 2019-2023. The objects of research were several samples of various ecological and geographical origin and 2 new forms of Spanish sage obtained during local selection. All records and observations were carried out according to the following methods: field experience in vegetable growing (S.S. Litvinov, 2011), State variety testing of agricultural crops (1989), assessment of primary introduction by G.P. Semenova (2001) and variety assessment of floral ornamental plants by V.N. Bylov (1971).Results. As a result of continuous year-round introduction work, the breeders of the Omsk State Agricultural University managed to overcome the photoperiodic sensitivity of the plant and obtain adaptive forms 0/18 and 3/18. An assessment of the decorative value, the success of the introduction and the possibility of introducing new samples into production in the conditions of the southern forest-steppe of Western Siberia is given. The first of the locally obtained forms, as more productive, was transferred to the state variety testing in 2023 under the assumed name of the variety "Siberian Emerald". Breeding work in this direction continues.

The article presents the results of a comprehensive craniological analysis of samples of skulls of the American mink (Neogale vison Schreber 1777) in three samples from different river basins: Upper Dnipro (Kyiv and Chernihiv oblasts), Middle Dnipro (Sumy Oblast), and Siversky Donets (Luhansk and Donetsk oblasts). The research included standard analysis based on craniometric measurements of 19 parameters, analysis of the composition and shape of the dentition, analysis of the shape of skulls by geometric morphometrics separately for the dorsal and ventral sides of the skull and buccal surface of the left mandible. The total sample comprised 29 specimens. The study showed that, according to the average values, skulls from the east of Ukraine are the smallest in size, while the skulls of the American mink from Sumy Oblast are the largest among the studied samples. The analysis by geometric morphometrics showed the presence of inter-population differences, which is expressed between geographically distant samples. The most important features that distinguish the studied samples include the shape of the nasal and frontal bones, the braincase region on the dorsal side of the skull, as well as the shape of structures associated with the diastema and the proximal part of the hard palate, and the shape of the occipital bones of the skull. The differences in the shape of the mandible are related to the position of the coronal process in relation to the jaw base and articular process. In the majority of specimens from the Siversky Donets and Upper Dnipro basins, the coronal and articular processes are closer to each other than in specimens from Sumy Oblast. The identified features and the results of the comparison of samples from Ukraine and other territories suggest that in the case of natural populations of Neogale vison, the leading role in the variability of geographically separated populations is played by such factors as origin (founder effect), trophic adaptations, and population status. Comparison of the results of our study with studies from other countries indicates that skull dimensions are larger in those regions where stable and powerful populations have formed as a result of the introduction, but in regions where the species is still spreading or forming populations, skull sizes were smaller.

Two lime tree species: European – small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata Mill.) and Far Eastern – amur lime (Tilia amurensis Rupr.) grow in the arboretum of V. N. Sukachev Institute of Forest, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences experimental station «Pogorelskiy Bor». Small-leaved lime tree has 9–16 m in height and 10–36.5 cm in diameter, amur lime tree has 11.5–14.5 m and 7.5–21.5 cm, accordingly. Plants of both species are characterized by high winter hardiness, they are not damaged with spring frosts and rarely attacked by pests. The lime trees begin blooming in the middle of July when the sum of effective temperatures reaches about 800 degrees/day (42.2–43.0 % of the total tef > 5 for the year). They continue blooming during 10–17 days. A fruits – lime-capsules ripen in September. The small-leaved lime tree capsules were 5.7 mm in length, 4.4 mm in width and 23.6 g in weight per 1000 pieces, its seeds were 4.0 mm, 3.0 mm and 14.5 g, accordingly. Sizes of amur lime tree capsules and seeds were similar – 5.3 mm, 3.9 mm and 23.8 g for the first ones and 3.9 mm 2.6 mm and 16.1 for the second ones. The part of empty seeds in small-leaved lime tree was 70 % but the part of such seeds in amur lime tree was 30 %. At the same time, the good quality of seed samples of both species did not exceed 30 %. On the territory of the arboretum there is natural regeneration of lime tree, including self-seeding. It is the most abundant at a distance of 50–100 m from the mother plants, where its density is 25–41 pieces per square meter.

The article provides a review of data on the Altai endemic Sibiraea altaiensis (Laxm.) Schneid., one of the archaic species of the genus Sibiraea Maxim. The species is included in the Red Books of the Altai Republic, the Altai Territory, and of Kazakhstan as a rare species, whose numbers are decreasing, mostly due to the influence of anthropogenic factors in its habitats. At the same time, S. altaiensis belongs to agriculturally important species, which is valued for its decorative, medicinal and other useful properties. The species is reproduced by seed, layering shoots, root and summer stem cuttings; however, these methods do not always give good results, and also require large areas for growing plants and are confined to a certain season of the year.Microclonal propagation of plants can become a promising method for the propagation and conservation of S. altaiensis. It consists in the use of in vitro techniques of rapid asexual production of plants that are genetically identical to the original specimen, with a significant saving of time and space required for growing planting material. The use of microcloning for the conservation and reproduction of rare and endangered species is highly justified, since it allows a significant increase in the reproduction rate of plant species, which are difficult or impossible to reproduce vegetatively, or those with low viability or seed productivity.Using in vitro protocols for the propagation of S. altaiensis, 10-28 microshoots were obtained from one lateral bud, which was used as an explant, when cultivated on a modified and a classic Murashige and Skoog (MS) nutrient media supplemented with 1.0 mgL-1 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BAP). These works confirm that in vitro cloning ensures a high reproduction rate of S. altaiensis and, thus, makes it possible to preserve the gene pool of the species and obtain planting material on a commercial scale without causing damage to natural populations.

Using 7 introduced peach varieties and 2 local blood peach varieties as test materials, a comprehensive evaluation was conducted on the phenology, growth vigor, and fruit quality of 9 varieties. The results showed that the early maturing variety‘Tezaohongburan’,the mid maturing varieties‘Cuibao’ ‘Bairuyu’ ‘Wuhan blood peach’ and ‘Local blood peach’ performed well and were suitable for promotion and planting in the Shiyan area of Hubei. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study aimed to determine the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on exercise capacity, respiratory muscle strength, length of hospital stay (LOS), and quality of life (QOL) following coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Methods The search was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and the Cochrane Handbook and included the databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and CENTRAL. The review included randomized controlled trials utilizing IMT during phase 1 or 2 postoperative cardiac rehabilitation (PoCR) versus alternative treatment (active or passive control) in patients following coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Results Fifteen studies were included (11 phase 1 studies, 4 phase 2 studies) with no reported adverse events. In phase 1 PoCR, IMT reduced the LOS (−1.02 days; 95% CI = −2.00 to −0.03) and increased exercise capacity (6-minute walk distance) (+75.46 m; 95% CI = 52.34 to 98.57), and maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (10.46 cm H2O; 95% CI = 2.83 to 18.10), but had no effect on maximal expiratory pressure. In phase 2 PoCR, IMT increased 6-minute walk distance (45.84 m; 95% CI = 10.89 to 80.80), MIP (−23.19 cm H2O; 95% CI = −31.31 to −15), maximal expiratory pressure (20.18 cm H2O; 95% CI = 9.60 to 30.76), and QOL (−11.17; 95% CI = −17.98 to −4.36), with no effect on peak oxygen uptake. There was a high risk of bias for MIP (75% of the phase 1 studies) and 6MWT (1 of 4 phase 2 studies). The quality of the evidence ranged from very low to moderate. Conclusion IMT significantly improves exercise capacity, respiratory muscle strength, LOS, and QOL in phase 1 and 2 PoCR. Impact IMT may benefit patients during phase 1 and 2 of PoCR, considering the safety, low cost, and potential benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Middle East Journal for Humanities & Cultural Studies is the property of Manar Elsharq for Studies & Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A brief ampelographic characteristic of the introduced table grapevine cultivars from P. R. China - Kyoho, Shennong Jinhuanghou, Bixiang Wuhe, and Hanxiangmi was done. According to the period of onset of consumptive ripeness of the grapes, under the specific soil-climatic conditions, the Hanxiangmi cultivar belongs to the group of „very early ripening“ cultivars (beginning of August), and the rest to the group of „early ripening“ (the second half of August). The studied cultivars are distinguished by good adaptive potential and manage to fully develop their qualities in the study area. They are characterized by high fertility and yield, large and attractive clusters, very large berries, and high quality and high transportability of the grapes. They have increased resistance to downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola) and low winter temperatures. The seedless cultivar Hanxiangmi has a very high and relatively constant fertility over the years, with a high proportion of fruit shoots developed from additional and dormant buds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introductory discourse is the one that introduces the text from the point of view of another writer, which is different from that of a genuine or actual writer. It is just a prefacing discourse which inaugurates the text. The introductory discourse appeared in modern literature with the appearance of Gerard Genet's book " Attabat" " The Thresholds ", especially after it shed light on the outer text which includes the titles, preface, dictation, introduction and cover .etc. Instead of the importance of the book " Thresholds" (Attabat) in explaining the texts and discovering its gentrification, the received feedback exaggerated its applied practicing; therefore it deviated from the genuine text. What should be mentioned here is that the presence of the introductory discourse in the chronicle of Western criticism, it does not mean that it is not found in the Arabic chronicle. The heritage or tradition books assured that the old historians and the writers of biographies were interested in such discourses whether that which were written by them or by others. This study deals with the introductory discourse of Taha Hussein. He also adopted the new generations and their important writings; he was very keen to enlighten their writings with his great style. His writings to theses introduction were not in a hurry or impressional. They depended on an accurate and strict scientific. Hence, it seeks to identify the introductory discourse of Taha Hussein. It tries to pinpoint the types, objectives and forms of the introductory discourse of Taha Hussein. It approaches the aspects of the curriculum which he used in his writings and to discover whether there is a difference between this genre of writing and his intellectual and critical writing. This study is divided into two parts; the first part is a theoretical one, identifying the introductory discourse, its objectives and types in the Arabic tradition. The second part deals with the forms of the introductory discourse and its sorts of taha Hussein. His writings of the introductory course were various including the introductions of the literary, intellectual and biographical translations of? books. The study concluded that the introductory discourse was prominent in the Arabic and Islamic culture, and Taha Hussein played an effective part in the culture; presenting integrated vision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to screen out the high-quality new peanut varieties (lines) suitable for being planted in the peanut area of Fujian, the yield, characteristics, disease (stress) resistance and quality of 8 introduced new peanut varieties (lines) were compared. The results showed that the dry pod yield and kernel yield of Guihua 376 were both the highest, which were 3 805.05 kg·hm−2 and 2 430.00 kg·hm−2, respectively, which were 20.60% and 21.96% higher than those of Zhanyou 75 (CK). All the varieties (lines) showed strong waterlogging tolerance and moderate rust resistance. Puhua 66 had the highest protein content of 29.24%, which could be used as a parent material with high protein. The oleic acid content of Guihua 376 was 78.96%, which could be used as a parent material with high oleic acid. The comprehensive analysis showed that Guihua 376 had the best comprehensive performance and could be further promoted and planted in Fujian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The nurse practitioner role has become important globally in handling the growing healthcare needs of older adults with chronic diseases. Nevertheless, research shows that introducing the role is a complex process, and more studies are needed to prepare for its introduction into different healthcare contexts, such as municipal healthcare. Aim: The aim is to investigate what Swedish stakeholders identify as the preparatory work needed before introducing the nurse practitioner role into municipal healthcare. Methods: Data were collected through four focus group interviews conducted virtually on the TEAMS digital platform, with three to six participants in each group and 18 participants total. The transcribed interviews were analysed using a six‐step thematic approach: familiarisation with the data, coding the data, generating initial themes, reviewing themes, defining and naming the themes and producing the report. Findings: The findings are divided into two main themes, each with two sub‐themes. In the first, clarifying why the nurse practitioner role is needed, participants stressed the importance of having a clear intention for introducing the role. The second, ensure a national framework to bolster the introduction at the local level, demonstrates the need for collaboration among national actors to clarify the role's mandate and authority before its introduction. Conclusions: Adding the nurse practitioner role to municipal healthcare can help increase the supply of nursing competence and the quality of patient care, but preparation for introducing the role requires extensive work. The development of the nurse practitioner role requires decision‐makers and leaders to take primary responsibility for its introduction. This study can support countries in the early phase of developing the nurse practitioner role by identifying both best practices and pitfalls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report three recent observations of striped individuals of the grass snake (Natrix natrix) from Berlin, Germany. Such animals have been described from the region earlier, although this color morph is typical for south-eastern European populations. All three observations were made in anthropogenic habitats, which have been highly frequented by visitors for decades. Based on our anecdotal findings and recent publications on the morpho-geography of the species, we hypothesize that introduced individuals might play a more significant role in the polymorphism of grass snakes than previously thought. Finally, we overview all published observations of striped grass snakes in Central Europe and discuss the implications of potentially introduced non-native genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An introduction is presented in which the author discusses articles within the issue on topics including assessment center's measurement of competencies, usage of assessment centers in the selection and development of inclusive leaders in organizations, and assessor training for assessment centers.

Copyright of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences is the property of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background.The study presents the original results of studying the ecological and biological features of the seed-bearing seradella (Ornithopus sativus Brot.) during introduction in the conditions of the middle taiga of Western Siberia and gives a primary assessment of the prospects for its introduction into the culture of the region (using the example of the Surgut district). For the first time, the potential alum resistance of the crop was determined, the features of ontogenesis and biomorphological signs were revealed, the results of feed assessment and productivity were presented, the possibility of cultivating seradella for fodder in extreme soil and climatic conditions of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Area was established. Materials and methods. The research on the study of the ecological and biological features of the seradella sowing and the prospects of introduction in the conditions of the middle taiga of the Western Siberia was conducted on the basis of Botanical Garden of the Surgut State University of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Area-Yugra. The object of the study is the annual legume seradella seed (Ornithopus sativus Brot.). Results. As a result of the research, it was found that seradella sowing belongs to the 1st group of plant species resistant to aluminum ions, since the studied concentrations did not have a significant effect on the vegetative organs of the plant. And in the conditions of the cold northern climate of the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Area, seradella sowing has a shortening of the duration of interphase periods in the virginal period of development and an elongation of the onset of the main phenological phases in the generative period. The feed obtained from the herbage of the crop has a high biological value. Conclusions. Based on the data obtained, it can be said that the seed seradella (Ornithopus sativus Brot.) has a high adaptive potential to the limiting soil and climatic factors of the middle taiga of the Western Siberia.

IntroductionThis article presents a thematic historical study on the introduction of “anxiety” to modern China. Based on seminal research conducted previously by European scholars on histories of psychological and psychiatric concepts, this article reviews the itinerary of “anxiety” to China by using multiple types of textual evidence. Alongside a detailed description of how “anxiety” was translated and introduced, a comparison between the notions of “anxiety” in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western psychoanalytic approaches was made. The processes of how “depression” and “anxiety” were introduced to China were also compared.Materials and methodsThree types of textual evidence were meticulously analyzed. First, lexicographical works published since the 19th century were examined to trace the initial introduction and observe the standardized translation of “anxiety” in Chinese. Second, newspaper and periodical articles were analyzed to understand how knowledge of “anxiety” was communicated to the general public. Third, the evolution of psychological and psychiatric terminologies was observed through medical books.ResultsIt was found that “anxiety” was initially translated into various Chinese terms, with “jiaolyu” eventually emerging as the standardized term after 1949. The textual evidence showed that “anxiety” began to be acknowledged as a disease concept in the early 20th century, though it was not formally recognized as a diagnostic category until the late 20th century. This article also highlights the differences between the Western psychoanalytic view on anxiety and the Chinese folk conception of it.Discussion and conclusionsIt was observed that the introduction processes of depression and anxiety to China were similar, though their conceptual histories in the West showed much difference. The fading of neurasthenia marked a new era of psychiatric development in China, characterized by an enhanced specificity in the classification of mental disorders, which was never observed in the discourse about “xin feng,” a corresponding TCM notion of “anxiety.” The article also underscores the need for further exploration of corresponding TCM concepts of “anxiety” and the assimilation of Western psychiatric concepts in China.

Co-creation is a participatory design approach that leverages the experiential knowledge of non-academic actors. It is increasingly adopted in public health research to enhance the relevance, acceptability, and impact of interventions. This perspective article provides a practical introduction to co-creation, its application, and benefits and considerations for public health researchers. Based on the authors’ experiences with co-creation in public health, four key considerations for co-creation are outlined: 1) the selection of collaborators (those participating in the co-creation process) and their power dynamics and interests; 2) frameworks and guidelines for the co-creation process; 3) capacities needed to successfully apply a co-creation approach, such as emotional intelligence and adaptability; and 4) practical matters, such as resources and ethics approval. These insights serve as a practical introduction for public health researchers considering the application of co-creation in their projects to facilitate more effective and impactful, user-centered research designs and interventions.

BACKGROUND: The first epidemic wave of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in Scotland resulted in high case numbers and mortality in care homes. In Lothian, over one-third of care homes reported an outbreak, while there was limited testing of hospital patients discharged to care homes. AIM: To investigate patients discharged from hospitals as a source of SARS-CoV-2 introduction into care homes during the first epidemic wave. METHODS: A clinical review was performed for all patients discharges from hospitals to care homes from 1st March 2020 to 31st May 2020. Episodes were ruled out based on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) test history, clinical assessment at discharge, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data and an infectious period of 14 days. Clinical samples were processed for WGS, and consensus genomes generated were used for analysis using Cluster Investigation and Virus Epidemiological Tool software. Patient timelines were obtained using electronic hospital records. FINDINGS: In total, 787 patients discharged from hospitals to care homes were identified. Of these, 776 (99%) were ruled out for subsequent introduction of SARS-CoV-2 into care homes. However, for 10 episodes, the results were inconclusive as there was low genomic diversity in consensus genomes or no sequencing data were available. Only one discharge episode had a genomic, time and location link to positive cases during hospital admission, leading to 10 positive cases in their care home. CONCLUSION: The majority of patients discharged from hospitals were ruled out for introduction of SARS-CoV-2 into care homes, highlighting the importance of screening all new admissions when faced with a novel emerging virus and no available vaccine.

In the ontogenesis of woody plants in general, and magnolia species in particular, the virginal age is quite long, and therefore is critically important from the point of view of selecting optimal conditions for growing plants. The study was conducted on biennial plants of deciduous magnolias: Magnolia kobus Sarg., M. obovata Thunb., M. denudata Desr. The studied plants were at the beginning of the virginile stage of development. The material for the investigation is selected from plants, which were planted by us in the research area of A. V. Fomin Botanical Garden of the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. In this study, we used scanning electron and light microscopes to examine the ultrastructure of the surface of leaves of the studied species. The histological characteristics of the leaves of the studied species are similar. They are hypostomatic. Their stomata are of the paracytic type, they are evenly distributed on the abaxial surface of the leaves. The epidermal cells of the studied species of the genus Magnolia have tortuous (cells located on the periphery of the leaf) or straight (cells located on the veins) outlines and rectangular (cells located on the veins) or flattened (cells placed on the periphery of the leaf) projection. The cuticle is relatively thin, located on both the abaxial and adaxial surfaces of the leaves. Epicuticular wax is observed of three types in the studied species: films (M. denudata), crust (M. kobus, M. obovata) and wax granules (M. denudata, M. obovata). The amount of wax and pubescence is greater on the abaxial surface in M. obovata; very weak pubescence and waxy layer is observed only on the abaxial surface of the leaf in M. kobus, weak pubescence is present on both sides in M. denudata. In all species of the genus Magnolia pubescence is simple, formed by hairs that "accompany" the veins. There are two main types of lamina relief in the studied species: reticular (M. obovata, M. denudata (subtype reticular-collicular)) and pitted (M. kobus). The species clearly differ in this feature, so we believe that the type of relief of the lamina can be used as an additional diagnostic feature to distinguish species of the genus Magnolia. Magnolia denudata is characterized by a small number of stomata, while M. obovata and M. kobus are characterized by their average number. The Stomata Index varies from 2.8 in M. denudata to 1.02 in M. kobus. The lamina is the thickest in M. obovata, the thinnest is in M. kobus, but the total thickness of the epidermal tissue as a percentage of the thickness of the leaf is, in descending order: M. denudata (29%), M. kobus (24%), M. obovata (18%). The mesophyll varies from homogeneous-spongy (in M. kobus) to layered (in M. obovata, M. denudata) type. The number of layers of cells that form the mesophyll in all studied species is from 4 to 6. Thus, M. kobus is characterized by the least specialized type of mesophyll. The vascular system in the studied plants is represented by small central and lateral vascular bundles. The ground tissue is present only in the central and large side bundles. In the early stages of ontogenesis the studied plants are typical mesophytes with hypostomatic leaves adapted to exist in sufficiently moist conditions in soil and air. In practical terms, the results of investigation can be used to select optimal conditions for growing plants at the initial stages of ontogenesis.

The study has been conducted at the Polar-Alpine Botanical Garden-Institute, the northernmost botanical garden in Russia (67°38′ N). The aim of this work has been a comprehensive analysis of the condition of Siberian stone pine trees (Pinus sibirica Du Tour) during their introduction in the Arctic. The condition of 8 specimens of the species cultivated at the experimental plot in the town of Apatity has been examined. Their phenological development has been analyzed: the swelling and breaking of the vegetative buds, the end of the elongation and maturation of the needles, the beginning and end of growth of the annual shoots, the lignification of the shoots, the beginning and end of pollen dispersion. The degree of lignification of the annual shoot, the winter hardiness, the habit, the shootforming capacity, the height increment, the generative development and the reproduction in the plantation have also been assessed. The risk of a tree falling has been determined by considering its surroundings and exposure to wind. The root zones, the butts, the trunks, the crown bases, the boughs and the crowns have been examined for the presence of hollows, cracks, decomposition, fungal fruit bodies, damage, weak forks, dead branches, etc. The application of an approach combining the analysis of seasonal development, viability and risk of tree fall is promising for a comprehensive and objective assessment of the condition of Siberian stone pine trees by morphological and phenological characteristics during the introduction to the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation. The phenological rhythm of the studied trees corresponds to the environmental conditions during the introduction to the Polar-Alpine Botanical Garden-Institute named after N.A. Avrorin. Vegetation begins in late May. By the end of August the annual shoots lignify, which indicates the readiness of the plants for the winter period. The close timing of the onset of phenophases and their low variation may indicate a low dependence of the seasonal development of Siberian stone pine on weather conditions during the introduction to the central part of the Kola Peninsula. The trees are winter-hardy, retain the life form inherent to the species, have a high shoot-forming capacity and annual height increment. They reach the generative stage of development. For their propagation in the plantation, it is necessary to attract seed material from other regions. The trees are monocormic, unimucronate and bimucronate. They are characterized by dense crowns. Their apical and lateral shoots are developed. In rare cases, the increment of lateral shoots is reduced. The V-shaped forks have been noted on the stems and a hollow in the butt area has been found on one of the trees. An additional instrumental examination is needed to determine the effect of diseases or pathogens on the stability of the trees.

In the west of Ukraine, the Turkish snail Helix lucorum was first discovered in 2020 at one of the household plots in Chortkiv, Ternopil region. It was found that the owner of the house specially brought snails from France for his children. Until the beginning of the 21st century, H. lucorum was known in Ukraine only from the mountainous Crimea, where it was presumably brought by Greek colonists. The distribution area of this species in Crimea gradually expanded, in particular, due to targeted introductions. Since 2010, single population of H. lucorum have been recorded in Ukraine outside of Crimea. Judging by the shell colouration, only some of them could have been founded by individuals from the Crimea, with almost unnoticeable spiral banding and distinct radial streaks. Other populations are of unclear origin, and their founders may have been brought from different parts of the present range of H. lucorum. In particular, shells with wide dark, often fused bands and a distinct light gap between them on the shell periphery are characteristic of most known introduced European populations of H. lucorum, and are also common in the Krasnodar region of Russia, from where they could have been introduced to the east of Crimea (Kerch Peninsula).

Artificial intelligence (AI) has significant potential to transform healthcare and improve patient care. However, successful development and integration of AI models requires careful consideration of study designs and sample size calculations for development and validation of models, publishing standards, prototype development for translation and collaboration with stakeholders. As the field is relatively new and rapidly evolving there is a lack of guidance and agreement on best practices for most of these steps. We engaged stakeholders in the form of clinicians, researchers from academia and industry, and data scientists to discuss various aspects of the translational pipeline and identified the challenges researchers in the field face and potential solutions to them. In this viewpoint, we present the summary of our discussions as a brief guide on the process of developing AI-based applications for healthcare using medical images. We organized the entire process into six major themes (i.e., The gaps AI can fill in healthcare, Development of AI models for healthcare: practical and important things to consider, Good practices for validation of AI models for healthcare: study designs and sample size calculation, Points to consider when publishing AI models, Translation towards products, Challenges and potential solutions from a technical perspective) and presented important points as a rule of thumb. We conclude that successful integration of AI in healthcare requires a collaborative approach, rigorous validation, adherence to best practices as described and cited, and consideration of technical aspects.

In order to promote the breeding of new varieties of Syringa spp. and their promotion and application in the Hangzhou area, the ecological adaptability of eight Syringa spp., namely Zhuoyue, Boka, Jimu, Aisaisi, Palibin, Suogena, Syringa pinnatifolia Hemsl and Xiaobuwuqu, in the Hangzhou area was studied. And its phenology, growth characteristics, ornamental value, heat resistance, and resistance to diseases and pests were observed and analyzed. The results showed that the ecological adaptability of the eight Syringa spp.was different. Early spring can grow well, with bright and fragrant flowers, and a longer viewing period. Among them, Zhuoyue and Sogner varieties have the strongest heat resistance, with a heat resistance level of Grade I, which can smoothly weather the summer and has good promotion value, suitable for promotion and application in the Hangzhou area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] In order to further promote the development of Myrciaria cauliflora Berg industry in the mountainous areas of northeastern Guangdong and revitalize the rural economy. Saba, Aurora macula Saba, Fukuoka, Sijihongfei, Ginkgo seed, Argentina, Aiska and Kenbuka eight varieties of Myrciaria cauliflora Berg were introduced to Meizhou, Guangdong, and their growth was observed. [Method] Randomized block design, eight Myrciaria cauliflora Berg varieties were observed and compared in Meizhou planting base of Guangdong Province since April 2020. [Result] During a whole growth cycle, the results showed that Kenbuka failed to overwinter safely, and the survival rate of introduction was 0; the introduction survival rate of Sijihongfei was 60%; the survival rate of the three varieties of Aurora macula Saba, Ginkgo seed and Aiska was 100%, but the growth was poor and the freezing injury was serious; the survival rate of Saba, Fukuoka and Argentina was 100%, and the traits were excellent and the growth potential was good. And the growth of the eight Myrciaria cauliflora Berg varieties showed an obviously positive correlation with temperature and precipitation. The growth of eight varieties of Myrciaria cauliflora Berg was slowly from October to February every year. Varieties with poor low temperature resistance would suffer from different degrees of freezing injury. [Conclusion] Saba, Fukuoka and Argentina are suitable for planting in the mountainous areas of northeastern Guangdong. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article introduces a special issue of the journal Adult Learning that focuses on CONFINTEA VII, a global conference on adult education organized by UNESCO. The conference, held in Marrakech, Morocco in June 2022, sets global goals for adult education and brings together educators from different countries. The United States, although previously withdrawn from UNESCO, participated as a nonmember observer state and has since become a full member again. The article provides a historical overview of UNESCO's involvement in adult education and highlights the launch of the GRALE V report during the conference. It also mentions other UNESCO initiatives, such as the Transformative Education Summit and the World Higher Education UNESCO Conference. The special issue includes articles on various themes discussed at the conference, offering perspectives, insights, and resources for further exploration. [Extracted from the article]