bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Der Schutz der mitgliedstaatlichen Verfassungsidentität im Unionsrecht anhand der „Taricco Saga“: C-105/14 (Taricco u.a.) und C-42/17 (M.A.S. u.a. – „Taricco II“)
Authors: Gappa Marius
Published: January 2021

In Zeiten, in denen das BVerfG mit seinem PSPP-Urteil für Aufsehen und Kritik sorgt, werden die Rechtssachen Taricco I und Tarrico II teilweise als erstrebenswertes Beispiel für einen Dialog zwischen dem italienischen Verfassungsgerichtshof und dem EuGH herangezogen. Ein Blick auf den italienischen Vorlagebeschluss zeigt indessen, dass hinter der diplomatischen Sprache ein aus der Perspektive des EuGH nicht minder problematisches Argumentationsmuster existiert. Die fragwürdig begründete Antwort, die der EuGH in Taricco II findet, wirft letztlich die Frage auf, ob die Struktur des Vorlageverfahrens nach Art. 267 AEUV nicht eine Auseinandersetzung mit Fragen nationaler Verfassungsidentität beschränkt.
Standardized Method for Defining a 1-mm2 Region of Interest for Calculation of Mitotic Rate on Melanoma Whole Slide Images
Authors: Wang Minhua , Aung Phyu P. , Prieto Victor G.
Published: January 2021

Context.—

Mitotic rate counting is essential in pathologic evaluations in melanoma. The American Joint Committee on Cancer recommends reporting the number of mitotic figures (MFs) in a 1-mm2 area encompassing the “hot spot.” There is currently no standard procedure for delineating a 1-mm2 region of interest for MF counting on a digital whole slide image (WSI) of melanoma.

Objective.—

To establish a standardized method to enclose a 1-mm2 region of interest for MF counting in melanoma based on WSIs and assess the method's effectiveness.

Design.—

Whole slide images were visualized using the ImageScope viewer (Aperio). Different monitors and viewing magnifications were explored and the annotation tools provided by ImageScope were evaluated. For validation, we compared mitotic rates obtained from WSIs with our method and those from glass slides with traditional microscopy with 30 melanoma cases.

Results.—

Of the monitors we examined, a 32-inch monitor with 3840 × 2160 resolution was optimal for counting MFs within a 1-mm2 region of interest in melanoma. When WSIs were viewed in the ImageScope viewer, ×10 to ×20 magnification during screening could efficiently locate a hot spot and ×20 to ×40 magnification during counting could accurately identify MFs. Fixed-shape annotations with 500 × 500-μm squares or circles can precisely and efficiently enclose a 1-mm2 region of interest. Our method on WSIs was able to produce a higher mitotic rate than with glass slides.

Conclusions.—

Whole slide images may be used to efficiently count MFs. We recommend fixed-shape annotation with 500 × 500-μm squares or circles for routine practice in counting MFs for melanoma.
Estado nutricional do pessegueiro na principal região produtora de pêssego para indústria no Brasil
Authors: Navroski Renan , Benati Jorge Atílio , Barreto Caroline Farias , Fischer Lucas De Oliveira , Pereira José Francisco Martins , Nava Gilberto , Malgarim Marcelo Barbosa
Published: January 2021

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar nutricionalmente plantas de pessegueiro na região produtora de Pelotas, RS. Foram amostrados 65 pomares de pessegueiros das cultivares Maciel, Granada, Esmeralda e Sensação nos municípios de Pelotas, Canguçu e Morro Redondo no ciclo produtivo de 2018. As amostras foliares, após secas e moídas, foram analisadas quanto aos seus teores de nitrogênio (N), fósforo (P), potássio (K), cálcio (Ca), magnésio (Mg), boro (B), cobre (Cu), ferro (Fe), manganês (Mn) e zinco (Zn) e os resultados foram apresentados em distribuições de frequência nas classes de suficiência indicadas para a cultura na região além da correlação entre os nutrientes. Observou-se maiores deficiências nos teores de nitrogênio, cobre, ferro e zinco. Entretanto, para a maioria das amostras, os teores de potássio encontraram-se na classe “acima do normal”, encontrou-se correlações entre P/Ca, P/Cu, Ca/P, Ca/Mg e Ca/B. É possível constatar a carência do uso de ferramentas para avaliar o estado nutricional dos pomares, principalmente a diagnose foliar, o que levou ao uso inadequado de fertilizantes e consequentemente um desbalanço nutricional das plantas.
Evaluating the influence of noise emitted by environmental enrichment equipment in routine farrowing management practices
Authors: Ricci Gisele Dela , Sousa Rafael Teixeira de , Miranda Késia Oliveira da Silva , Tonon Elder , Passere Ana Laura Alves de Matos , Titto Cristiane Gonçalves
Published: January 2021

The installation of fans and rooftop sprinklers in swine housing and management facilities can increase noise intensity and may impair workers' hearing health over longs periods of time; therefore, an assessment of the piglets’ stress during invasive practices was made. This study set out to evaluate the noise intensity emitted by environmental enrichment devices (fans and rooftop sprinklers) and by piglets restrained for body temperature assessments and its effect on animal welfare and on the hearing health of workers exposed to it for long periods. Twenty piglets ranging in age from five to twenty days were observed. The sow gestation area was divided into a cooled (fans and rooftop sprinklers) and uncooled area. Two decibel meters were used to measure noise intensity, one for the general noise in the facilities and the other for the piglets, with five-minute intervals between assessments. Digital thermometers were used to take the rectal temperature, and infrared thermometers were used to take the body surface temperature. Fixed-effects ANOVA for the housing environment and periods and multiple comparisons at a significance level of 5% were applied. The average dorsal temperature of the piglets was 36 °C ± 1.2 in the cooled area and 38.4 °C ± 0.5 in the uncooled area. In both periods, the average maximum noise intensity was over 100 decibels. In the afternoon, the maximum intensity was higher for the uncooled environment. The results indicate that neither the fans nor the rooftop sprinklers installed in the facilities nor the squealing piglets during restraint affect the noise intensity of the environment. However, the noise intensity demonstrates the piglets’ stress and the need for protective equipment to preserve the workers’ hearing health.
Influência do método de coleta e da pluviometria na produtividade de pólen apícola na Caatinga
Authors: Xavier Marcela Sheila Araújo , Nascimento José Elton de Melo , Felix Jânio Angelo , Muniz Vitória Inna Mary de Sousa , Pereira Júlio Otávio Portela , Alves José Everton
Published: January 2021

O manejo aplicado em colônias de abelhas africanizadas (Apis mellifera L.) para maximizar a coleta de pólen apícola nas colmeias, deve prezar pela intensidade da colheita, respeitar os aspectos biológicos da espécie e implantar inovações que otimizem esta produção. Para otimizar a colheita deste produto apícola, objetivou-se com este trabalho comparar a produtividade de pólen apícola obtida por dois modelos de coletores, bem como a produtividade utilizando-se quantidades diferentes (um ou dois) de coletores na colmeia. Os tratamentos aplicados foram os seguintes: um coletor frontal localizado no alvado da colmeia; um coletor tipo melgueira localizada acima do ninho; dois coletores concomitantemente, sendo um coletor frontal e um coletor tipo melgueira. Todas as colônias passaram por todos os tratamentos para evitar o efeito da colônia sobre os resultados de produtividade. O coletor de pólen tipo frontal foi o mais indicado para a maior produtividade de pólen apícola e as colônias necessitaram somente de um coletor de pólen para expressarem o potencial de produção na Caatinga.
Hindlimb lateral and medial acropodial series of cattle are uneven in form
Authors: Parés-Casanova Pere M. , Jones Capdevila Kirian Narcís , Castel Mas Laura
Published: January 2021

In bovines, fore and hind lateral claws are larger than the medial claws and the heel are deeper and the sole thicker. On this anatomical basis, we hypothesized that it must imply a form (size+shape) asymmetry of the digits. To test this hypothesis, we studied the acropodiums (digital series) of 15 young bovines belonging to Brown Pyrenean breed, irrespective of the gender. Dorso-plantar radiographies were obtained for each hindlimb and the form was studied in a sample of 30 hindlimbs (15 right and 15 left). Images were studied by geometric morphometric methods. A set of 7 paired landmarks on medial and lateral digital series and one axial landmark was used for the study. Lateral and medial digits were uneven both in size and shape, expressing both fluctuating and directional asymmetries. Directional asymmetries would suggest a different function in weight bearing. We hypothesize lateral digits serve to stabilize the centre of gravity to a greater extent than medial digits. These findings prompt careful reassessment of the function of each of the digital series during standing and during locomotion in future researches.
Identification of a novel association for the WWOX/HIF1A axis with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)
Authors: Baryla Izabela , Pluciennik Elzbieta , Kośla Katarzyna , Wojcik Marzena , Zieleniak Andrzej , Zurawska-Klis Monika , Cypryk Katarzyna , Wozniak Lucyna Alicja , Bednarek Andrzej K
Published: January 2021

Background

Although the WW-domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX)/Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) pathway is a well-known regulator of cellular glucose and energy metabolism in pathophysiological processes, its role in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), remains elusive. We undertook this study to determine the effect of WWOX/HIF1A signaling on the expression of glucose metabolism genes in GDM patients.

Methods

Leukocytes were obtained from 135 pregnant women with (n = 98) or without (n = 37) GDM and, in turn, 3 months (n = 8) and 1 year (n = 12) postpartum. Quantitative RT-PCR was performed to determine gene expression profiles of the WWOX/HIF1A-related genes, including those involved in glucose transport (SLC2A1, SLC2A4), glycolytic pathway (HK2, PKM2, PFK, LDHA), Wnt pathway (DVL2, CTNNB1), and inflammatory response (NFKB1).

Results

GDM patients displayed a significant downregulation of WWOX with simultaneous upregulation of HIF1A which resulted in approximately six times reduction in WWOX/HIF1A ratio. As a consequence, HIF1A induced genes (SLC2A1, HK2, PFK, PKM) were found to be overexpressed in GDM compared to normal pregnancy and negative correlate with WWOX/HIF1A ratio. The postpartum WWOX expression was higher than during GDM, but its level was comparable to that observed in normal pregnancy.

Conclusions

The obtained results suggest a significant contribution of the WWOX gene to glucose metabolism in patients with gestational diabetes. Decreased WWOX expression in GDM compared to normal pregnancy, and in particular reduction of WWOX/HIF1A ratio, indicate that WWOX modulates HIF1α activity in normal tissues as described in the tumor. The effect of HIF1α excessive activation is to increase the expression of genes encoding proteins directly involved in the glycolysis which may lead to pathological changes in glucose metabolism observed in gestational diabetes.
Comparative analysis and implications of the chloroplast genomes of three thistles (Carduus L., Asteraceae)
Authors: Jung Joonhyung , Do Hoang Dang Khoa , Hyun JongYoung , Kim Changkyun , Kim Joo-Hwan
Published: January 2021

Background

Carduus, commonly known as plumeless thistles, is a genus in the Asteraceae family that exhibits both medicinal value and invasive tendencies. However, the genomic data of Carduus (i.e., complete chloroplast genomes) have not been sequenced.

Methods

We sequenced and assembled the chloroplast genome (cpDNA) sequences of three Carduus species using the Illumina Miseq sequencing system and Geneious Prime. Phylogenetic relationships between Carduus and related taxa were reconstructed using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses. In addition, we used a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the protein coding region of the matK gene to develop molecular markers to distinguish C. crispus from C. acanthoides and C. tenuiflorus.

Results

The cpDNA sequences of C. crispus, C. acanthoides, and C. tenuiflorus ranged from 152,342 bp to 152,617 bp in length. Comparative genomic analysis revealed high conservation in terms of gene content (including 80 protein-coding, 30 tRNA, and four rRNA genes) and gene order within the three focal species and members of subfamily Carduoideae. Despite their high similarity, the three species differed with respect to the number and content of repeats in the chloroplast genome. Additionally, eight hotspot regions, including psbI-trnS_GCU, trnE_UUC-rpoB, trnR_UCU-trnG_UCC, psbC-trnS_UGA, trnT_UGU-trnL_UAA, psbT-psbN, petD-rpoA, and rpl16-rps3, were identified in the study species. Phylogenetic analyses inferred from 78 protein-coding and non-coding regions indicated that Carduus is polyphyletic, suggesting the need for additional studies to reconstruct relationships between thistles and related taxa. Based on a SNP in matK, we successfully developed a molecular marker and protocol for distinguishing C. crispus from the other two focal species. Our study provides preliminary chloroplast genome data for further studies on plastid genome evolution, phylogeny, and development of species-level markers in Carduus.
Impact of Covid-19 on Tourism Sector in Nepal.
Authors: Panthhe Kamal Prasad , Kokate C N
Published: January 2021

Tourism is an important source of foreign exchange earnings for the government and contributes to the livelihood of millions in developing countries. The purpose of this paper is to explore and illuminate the preliminary impacts of COVID-19 in tourism sector in Nepal and further the paper puts forward policy recommendations for government to avert the worst effects and facilitate recovery. In Nepal, the travel and tourism sector contributes to 8 percent of GDP, 6.7 percent of total employment, and it generates 6 percent of the total foreign exchange earnings. Nepal Tourism Board estimates that loss of 85.2 billion USD monthly from tourism sector only and three in five employees lost their jobs due to COVID-19 in Nepal. The “Visit Nepal 2020” campaign had cancelled which aimed to attract 2 million tourists in the country this year. Tourism sector has already suffered a huge loss, and it is going to take quite to restore. The government should form special task force to create economic response package that will support Nepalese, their job, their businesses from the global impact of COVID-19, and to ready the economy to recover.Keywords: Covid-19, Tourism, Economy, Nepal.
A Threshold-based Tournament Resource Allocation in Cloud Computing Environment
Authors: Oladoja I. P. , Adewale O. S. , Oluwadare S. A. , Oyekanmi E. O.
Published: January 2021

Cloud computing environments provide an apparition of infinite computing resources to cloud users so that they can increase or decrease resource consumption rate according to their demands. In the Cloud, computing resources need to be allocated and scheduled in a way that providers can achieve high resource utilization and users can meet their applications’ performance requirements with minimum expenditure. Due to these different intentions, there is the need to develop a scheduling algorithm to outperform appropriate allocation of tasks on resources. The paper focuses on the resource optimization using a threshold-based tournament selection probability for virtual machines used in the execution of tasks. The proposed approach was designed to create metatask and the proposed algorithm used was Median-Based improved Max-Min algorithm. The experimental results showed that the algorithm had better performance in terms of makespan, utilization of resources and throughput. The load balance of tasks was also fairly distributed on the two datacenters.
Yield and Economics of Brinjal (Solanum melongena) as Affected by Different Mulching Types and Its Effect on Soil Moisture Content and Weed Dynamics in Post Flood Situation of Coastal Odisha, India
Authors: Mishra P. , Sahoo T. R. , Rahman F. H. , Garnayak L. M. , Phonglosa A. , Mohapatra N. , Bhattacharya R. , Mishra S. N.
Published: January 2021

A field experiment was conducted at the farmer’s field at Ratanpur village of Marshaghai block of Kendrapara, Odisha, India to evaluate effect of different mulching practices on weed population, moisture content in soil and yield of brinjal. The village is an adopted village by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kendrapara, in which various activities in agriculture are going on under National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) programme to combat the flood-affected area of the locality. The experiment consists of five mulching treatments like Black polythene mulch, Black and silver polythene mulch, Transparent mulch, Organic mulch (rice straw) and No mulch. Results revealed that black with silver colour polythene mulch was recorded with significantly higher yield per plant (2.59 kg) and yield per ha (62.1 t/ha) which was at par with black colour polythene mulch. Organic mulch was found to be next best treatment with respect to yield per plant (2.40 kg) and yield per ha (53.5 t/ha). The same treatment also resulted in the higher gross return (Rs. 434700/ha), net return (Rs. 274150/ha) and B:C ratio (2.71) which was followed by black polythene mulching and organic mulching practices. Weed suppression and moisture retention was higher with black polythene mulch.
Response of Mulching with Supplementary Irrigation on Physiochemical Properties of Bael (Aegle marmelos Correa.)
Authors: Ghosh Subham , Halder Shuvadeep , Mahato Subrata
Published: January 2021

The experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Mondouri, BCKV during 2015-2017 to find out the effect of mulching and supplementary irrigation on physical and chemical properties i.e fruit weight, length, diameter, pulp percentage, TSS, acidity, vitamin-C, anthocyanin etc. of Bael (Aegle marmelos Correa.) The experiment was put on factorial RBD consist of nine treatments viz.  M0I0 -  No mulch + no irrigation (Control). M0I1 - No mulch + basin irrigation with 15 litres/plant at 10 days interval, M0I2 - No mulch + basin irrigation with 15 litres/plant at 20 days interval, M1I0 - Black polythene mulching + no irrigation M1I1 - Black polythene mulching + basin irrigation with 15 litres/plant at 10 days interval, M1I2 - Black polythene mulching + basin irrigation with 15 litres/plant at 20 days interval. M2I0 - Dry leaves mulching + no irrigation, M2I1 - Dry leaves mulching + basin irrigation with 15 litres/plant at 10 days interval, M2I2 - Dry leaves mulching + basin irrigation with 15 litres/plant at 20 days interval. Which are interaction of two factor i.e. mulching and irrigation and each treatment has three replications. Mulching with black polythene followed by basin irrigation with 15 litres/plant at 10 days interval was most effective in improving fruit weight (1089.17g), size (length 12.89cm and diameter 39.18cm) and pulp content (56.16%) followed by dry leaves mulching + basin irrigation 15 litres/plant at 10 days interval. The fruit quality like vitamin C and anthocyanin content were also improved by mulching with black polythene followed by basin irrigation 15 litres/plant at 10 days interval but TSS, acidity whereas total sugar content in the fruits were not affected due to mulching and supplementary irrigation
Evaluation of intramuscular olanzapine and ziprasidone in the medically ill
Authors: Patel Seema M. , Crouse Ericka L. , Levenson James L.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Despite the paucity of studies evaluating short-acting parenteral second-generation antipsychotics in the medically ill, their use in this population has increased. The purpose of this study was to characterize the use of IM olanzapine and ziprasidone in the medically ill at an academic medical center.

Methods

This is a retrospective medical record review of all patients who received IM olanzapine or ziprasidone on nonpsychiatric inpatient units at a large academic medical center from August 1, 2015 to July 31, 2017. The primary endpoint characterized the indication for use. Secondary endpoints included safety, effectiveness, and prescribing patterns.

Results

After exclusion criteria, a total of 100 patients were included in this study, predominantly white males with a mean age of 56 years. Seventy-four percent of patients received IM ziprasidone and 26% received IM olanzapine. The most common indications for use were agitation of nonpsychotic origin (40%) and delirium (33%). Patients received IM olanzapine and ziprasidone when their use was contraindicated (26.9% vs 9.5%, respectively).

Discussion

Intramuscular second-generation antipsychotics are increasingly being used in the medically ill for delirium and agitation. Our study confirms these were the most common indications for IM second-generation antipsychotic use in this population. Additionally, their use appeared to be well-tolerated, and no patient developed Torsades de Pointes even when combined with other agents that putatively increase QTc. Given the retrospective, single-center, nonrandomized design of this study, the safety and effectiveness of these parenteral second-generation antipsychotics in common causes of acute agitation should continue to be further evaluated.
Heterojunction of Pores in Granola‐Type Crystals of Two Different Metal–Organic Frameworks for Enhanced Formaldehyde Removal
Authors: Jang Suin , Jee Seohyeon , Kim Raekyung , Lee Ju Ho , Yoo Ho Yeon , Park Woosung , Shin Jeeyoung , Choi Kyung Min
Published: January 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have introduced heterogeneity in their homogeneous matrix to create new functions that cannot be realized by each MOF individually. In this study, we chemically combined two different MOFs (UiO‐66 and HKUST‐1) in granola‐type granules (termed as HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66) to create a heterojunction of pores in nanocrystalline particles. The structure, morphology, elemental composition, and pore environment were characterized to confirm that two types of pores are in conjunction all over the HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66 granules. We found that the HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66 granules showed an enhanced CO2 sorption capacity than its constituents due to the complexity and the heterojunction of pores inside. Moreover, the HKUST‐1∧UiO‐66 granules present four and two times higher formaldehyde removal capacity than those of the HKUST‐1 and UiO‐66 samples, respectively.
“A metamorphosis of the educator”: A hermeneutic phenomenology study of the perceptions and lived experiences of the 6–12 educator in transitioning from teacher‐centered to student‐centered learning
Authors: McPherson Peter J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Despite large amounts of research documenting, the transition to student‐centered learning from the perspective of the student, minimal literature exists describing the lived experience, and perceptions of Idaho teachers and principals when transitioning from teacher‐centered to student‐centered learning.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to explore in specific detail the perceptions and lived experiences of Idaho teachers and building principals in transitioning to student‐centered learning, and thereby assists in filling in the literature gaps surrounding this topic. Six middle and high school teachers and four building principals were asked to describe and reflect on their perceptions and lived experiences in transitioning from teacher‐centered to student‐centered learning.

Methods

This hermeneutical, qualitative phenomenological study used a constructivist theoretical framework to assist the researcher in identifying and conveying each participant's deep, rich experience. In‐depth interviews were used to gather responses, and the data were transcribed and coded into three major themes, with keywords and terms from the participants supporting each theme.

Results and Discussion

The three themes that emerged when identifying and describing the perceptions and lived experiences of the participants in transitioning to student‐centered learning were a shift in philosophy of education, changes in methods and pedagogy, and the importance of relationships between teachers, principals, and students.

Conclusion

Key findings from the study suggest that in order to effectively transition from teacher‐centered to student‐centered education, cognitive changes in an educator's philosophy and mindset, along with social adjustments addressing relationships, connections, and experiences must be recognized and even embraced.
Risky emotional family environment in childhood and depression‐related cytokines in adulthood: The protective role of compassion
Authors: Saarinen Aino , Keltikangas‐Järvinen Liisa , Dobewall Henrik , Ahola‐Olli Ari , Salmi Marko , Lehtimäki Terho , Raitakari Olli , Jalkanen Sirpa , Hintsanen Mirka
Published: January 2021

Background

Previously, compassion has been found to protect against depressive symptoms, while emotional adversities in childhood are suggested to increase inflammatory responses. The current study investigated (a) whether emotional family environment in childhood predicts levels of such cytokines in adulthood that are previously found to be elevated in depression (interleukin [IL]‐2, IL‐6, IL‐1b, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, interferon‐gamma [IFN‐γ], and tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF‐α]) and (b) whether these associations are modified by compassion in adulthood.

Methods

The participants (N = 1,198–1,523) came from the prospective population‐based Young Finns data. Emotional family environment and parental socioeconomic factors were evaluated in 1980; participants’ compassion in 2001; and participants’ cytokine levels and adulthood covariates in 2007.

Results

Risky emotional family environment in childhood predicted higher levels of IL‐2, IL‐6, IFN‐γ, and TNF‐α in adulthood. Additionally, there were significant interaction effects between compassion and emotional risk in childhood, when predicting IL‐2, IL‐6, and TNF‐α. Specifically, individuals who grew up in a risky emotional family environment had on average higher levels of IL‐2, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in adulthood when combined with low compassion.

Conclusions

In individuals coming from risky emotional family environments, high compassion for others may protect against elevated levels of cytokines previously linked with depression.
Draft genome sequence of plastic degrading Bacillus sp. AIIW2 isolated from the Arabian ocean
Authors: Kumari Alka , Bano Nasreen , Chaudhary Doongar R. , Jha Bhavanath
Published: January 2021

The endemic spread of plastic in the environment requires urgent need of a sustainable approach. Marine microbes found to have vast bioactivity and play a central role in biogeochemical cycling in the ocean; however, very few of them had been explored for biochemical cycling or plastic degradation. In the present study, we report the draft genome sequence of marine Bacillus sp. AIIW2 which was found to utilize plastic as a carbon source. The Bacillus sonorensis SRCM101395 was used as a reference genome for mapping the reads. The genome size of strain AIIW2 was approximately 4.4 Mb and composed of 4737 coding sequences with 45.7% G + C contents. The whole genome comparison of strain AIIW2 with three closest Bacillus strains showed strain specificity, the 16S ribosomal RNA sequence shows 99.93% similarity with Bacillus paralicheniformis KJ‐16T (KY694465). This genome data would provide the genetic basis in developing plastic bioremediation approaches and discover the enzymes pertinent in the biodegradation processes.
Influence of S. cerevisiae and P. kluyveri as starters on chocolate flavour
Authors: Moreira Igor , Costa Jéssica , Vilela Leonardo , Lima Nelson , Santos Cledir , Schwan Rosane
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Fermented cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao L.) are a pivotal raw material for chocolate production. A cocktail yeast applied in the cocoa fermentation process can promote the formation of pleasant metabolites. Saccharomyces, Pichia and Hanseniaspora have been widely used in fermentation to improve the final product organoleptic profile, highlighting that fermentation is a critical point for chocolate flavour precursor production. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Pichia kluyveri and Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains as starter cultures on the fermentation for two cocoa hybrids, FA13 and CEPEC2002.

RESULTS

During fermentation processes, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and protein profiles were assessed. Chocolates produced were also assessed regarding the presence of VOCs. Eighty VOCs were identified using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry analysis. Mass spectrometry provided the protein profile evolution during fermentation and showed that the profiles changed with inoculation type (spontaneous versus inoculated fermentation). Chocolate obtained from FA13 inoculated with S. cerevisiae strain contained a greater amount of organics acids, being categorised as sourer than chocolate produced by spontaneous fermentation of FA13. CEPEC2002 inoculated with S. cerevisiae strain in co‐culture with P. kluyveri strain generated less sour and sweeter chocolate than spontaneous fermentation only.

CONCLUSIONS

Chocolates from inoculated assays with starter cultures were more accepted by evaluators, highlighting that P. kluyveri and S. cerevisiae influence the composition of VOCs. Besides, protein profiles also changed throughout fermentation. Further investigation should be conducted to clarify protein degradation dynamics during inoculated fermentations to define which of the microbial cultures positively affect the chocolate sensory characteristics. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Operation of button feedback design within TV remote control applications for middle‐aged and older adult
Authors: Yeh PoChan , Hsu YuChen
Published: January 2021

TV remote control interfaces have gradually changed from traditional physical buttons to touch screens. However, vision, touch, and even learning abilities can become impacted with increasing age, resulting in an impaired ability to operate these interfaces and issues such as an increase in mistouches on the device and an increase in searching time. Fifty middle‐aged and older adult between the ages of 45 and 64 were recruited to investigate whether changes to the design of buttons and sound effects influence the time and error rates in interface task operations. The results showed that buttons whose background colors changed when pressed reduced task completion time, whereas buttons whose outlines thickened did not. In addition, on/off keys should be designed with reference to current remote control buttons and styled in a similar manner. Finally, sound feedback design may be added in the channel selection function to reduce operation time and error rates.
Centene acquisition of Magellan establishes country's largest BH platform
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2021

Observing that the market for mental health and support services for complex populations is limited and highly fragmented and resulting in suboptimal outcomes for individuals and significant costs to the health care system overall, Centene and Magellan Health Inc. announced Jan. 4 that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Centene will acquire Magellan Health for $2.2 billion.
Vier Jahre IDOMENEO: Was hat Mozarts Oper der interdisziplinären Behandlung der peripheren arteriellen Verschlusskrankheit gebracht?
Authors:   die IDOMENEO-Collaborators, Behrendt C.-A. , Debus E. S.
Published: January 2021

Die IDOMENEO-Studie wurde für vier Jahre durch den Gemeinsamen Bundesausschuss gefördert und hat sich intensiv mit der validen Nutzung von Routinedaten und Registerdaten zur Behandlung der peripheren arteriellen Verschlusserkrankung beschäftigt. Neben der Identifikation von geeigneten Qualitätsindikatoren war auch die Entwicklung und Einführung der datenschutzkonformen und datensicheren GermanVasc-Registerplattform zentraler Projektbestandteil (clinicaltrials.gov NCT03098290). Dieser Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die erreichten Projektziele und insgesamt 37 wissenschaftlichen Veröffentlichungen zwischen 2017 und 2021.
Factors influencing general practitioners’ perception of and attitude towards dementia diagnostics and care—results of a survey among primary care physicians in Germany
Authors: Wangler Julian , Jansky Michael
Published: January 2021

Studies have shown that primary care is not always effective when it comes to caring for people with dementia. In addition, general practitioners do not always use diagnostic instruments consistently. The aim of the study was to identify relevant factors that influence general practitioners’ attitudes and willingness with respect to consistent diagnosis and care. For this purpose, resources, viewpoints, and behavioral patterns of general practitioners with regard to dementia diagnostics as well as common challenges in everyday practice were recorded. In the course of a survey, a total of 2266 general practitioners in Hesse and Baden-Württemberg were interviewed between January and March 2020. In addition to the descriptive analysis, a t-test was used to determine significant differences between two groups. A univariate linear regression analysis was carried out to identify possible influencing factors. 81% of the respondents do provide dementia diagnostics; 51% are involved in the treatment. Most of them see the diagnostic work-up (77%), communication and compliance problems (73%), as well as the therapeutic support (71%) as common challenges. In addition, there are interface problems regarding the interdisciplinary cooperation. Some of the respondents express doubts about the value of early detection (41%). The general practitioners’ attitude with respect to dementia diagnostics and care is determined by influencing factors that relate to geriatric competencies, expectations of self-efficacy, the integration of practice staff, as well as the knowledge of and cooperation with counseling and care services. It seems advisable to strengthen the geriatric competence of general practitioners. Moreover, it appears essential to educate general practitioners more about support structures in the field of dementia care and to integrate them accordingly. In addition, practice staff should be more systematically involved in the identification and care of dementia patients.
Monitoring wetland water quality related to livestock grazing in amphibian habitats
Authors: Smalling Kelly L. , Rowe Jennifer C. , Pearl Christopher A. , Iwanowicz Luke R. , Givens Carrie E. , Anderson Chauncey W. , McCreary Brome , Adams Michael J.
Published: January 2021

Land use alteration such as livestock grazing can affect water quality in habitats of at-risk wildlife species. Data from managed wetlands are needed to understand levels of exposure for aquatic life stages and monitor grazing-related changes afield. We quantified spatial and temporal variation in water quality in wetlands occupied by threatened Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa) at Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon, United States (US). We used analyses for censored data to evaluate the importance of habitat type and grazing history in predicting concentrations of nutrients, turbidity, fecal indicator bacteria (FIB; total coliforms, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and enterococci), and estrogenicity, an indicator of estrogenic activity. Nutrients (orthophosphate and ammonia) and enterococci varied over time and space, while E. coli, total coliforms, turbidity, and estrogenicity were more strongly associated with local livestock grazing metrics. Turbidity was correlated with several grazing-related constituents and may be particularly useful for monitoring water quality in landscapes with livestock use. Concentrations of orthophosphate and estrogenicity were elevated at several sites relative to published health benchmarks, and their potential effects on Rana pretiosa warrant further investigation. Our data provided an initial assessment of potential exposure of amphibians to grazing-related constituents in western US wetlands. Increased monitoring of surface water quality and amphibian population status in combination with controlled laboratory toxicity studies could help inform future research and targeted management strategies for wetlands with both grazing and amphibians of conservation concern.
A model for spectroscopic food sample analysis using data sonification
Authors: Kew Hsein
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we propose a method to generate an audio output based on spectroscopy data in order to discriminate two classes of data, based on the features of our spectral dataset. To do this, we first perform spectral pre-processing, and then extract features, followed by machine learning, for dimensionality reduction. The features are then mapped to the parameters of a sound synthesiser, as part of the audio processing, so as to generate audio samples in order to compute statistical results and identify important descriptors for the classification of the dataset. To optimise the process, we compare Amplitude Modulation (AM) and Frequency Modulation (FM) synthesis, as applied to two real-life datasets to evaluate the performance of sonification as a method for discriminating data. FM synthesis provides a higher subjective classification accuracy as compared with to AM synthesis. We then further compare the dimensionality reduction method of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis in order to optimise our sonification algorithm. The results of classification accuracy using FM synthesis as the sound synthesiser and PCA as the dimensionality reduction method yields a mean classification accuracies of 93.81% and 88.57% for the coffee dataset and the fruit puree dataset respectively, and indicate that this spectroscopic analysis model is able to provide relevant information on the spectral data, and most importantly, is able to discriminate accurately between the two spectra and thus provides a complementary tool to supplement current methods.
Sibling Adjustment and Sibling Relationships Associated with Clusters of Needs in Children with Autism: A Novel Methodological Approach
Authors: Rixon Louise , Hastings Richard P. , Kovshoff Hanna , Bailey Tom
Published: January 2021

We tested a novel methodological approach to examine associations between characteristics of autistic children and outcomes for siblings. Cluster analysis was used to define five groups of children with autism (n = 168) based on autism symptoms, adaptive behavior, pro-social behavior, and behavior problems. Primary and secondary parent carers, and siblings themselves, reported on sibling relationship quality and psychological adjustment. Siblings of autistic children with a mild symptom profile, high levels of adaptive skills, but high internalizing and externalizing problems had the highest level of these problems themselves and more conflict in their relationship. Siblings of autistic children with the most complex support needs (adaptive skills deficits, severe autism symptoms) reported lower warmth relationships but not elevated internalizing and externalizing problems.
The Urbanization of Northern Italy: Contextualizing Early Settlement Nucleation in the Po Valley
Authors: Zamboni Lorenzo
Published: January 2021

Recent excavations and theoretical advances have revealed evidence of an early and perhaps independent nucleation and centralization process in the region south of the Alps, a phenomenon that has been undervalued in previous studies. In this paper I present a broad overview and attempt to reassess the role of the Cisalpine regions as crossroads of trade and cultural transfer between the Mediterranean and central Europe through a critical evaluation of key archaeological evidence. I adopt alternative and up-to-date perspectives on the urbanization phenomenon, disentangling commonsensical and text-driven definitions of urbanism and social formation, while challenging the outdated “check-list” approach. This theoretical framework should promote a paradigm shift that leads to a substantial backdating and broadening of the appearance of complex site agglomerations in northern Italy, avoiding unidirectional development patterns and instead looking at possible cases of instability, ephemerality, and seasonality. The adoption of a comparative perspective triggers a timely disentanglement of the simplistic equation between urbanism and social hierarchy. Beyond a narrow and selective emphasis on elites, this paper considers alternative social entities and actions, including commoners, subaltern groups, and cooperation.
Interfacial phenomena between molten iron and molten slag–Effect of nitrogen on the Marangoni convection
Authors: Matsushita Taishi , Belov Ilja , Siafakas Dimitrios , Jarfors Anders E. W. , Watanabe Masahito
Published: January 2021

In order to investigate the influence of the surface-active element on the interfacial phenomena between molten iron and molten Al2O3-CaO-SiO2 slag, a mildly surface-active element, nitrogen, was introduced, and the interfacial phenomena were directly observed using an X-ray sessile drop method. The multiphysics model was employed to calculate the velocity of the Marangoni convection caused by the surface/interfacial tension gradient along with the contour of the sessile drop. Movement of the sessile drop was observed in the experiment, and the driving force of the movement was discussed from the distribution of surface tension active element viewpoint. The calculated velocity of the Marangoni convection in the droplet was reasonably agreed with the literature data for the metal-gas system, and thus, the same model was applied for the metal-slag system. The velocity of the Marangoni convection for the metal-slag system becomes ten times lower compared to that of metal-gas system.

Graphical abstract
How much carbon input is required to preserve or increase projected soil organic carbon stocks in German croplands under climate change?
Authors: Riggers Catharina , Poeplau Christopher , Don Axel , Frühauf Cathleen , Dechow René
Published: January 2021

Aims

Increasing soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks is discussed as negative emission technology with the potential to remove relevant amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. At the same time, climate change-driven losses of SOC to the atmosphere might impede such goals.

Methods

In this study, we used an ensemble of different SOC models and climate projections to project SOC stocks in German croplands up to 2099 under different climate change scenarios. We then estimated the required increase in organic carbon (OC) input to preserve or increase SOC stocks.

Results

Projected SOC stocks of German croplands are estimated to decline under current OC input levels and management, both with and without climate change. Depending on the climate scenario, we estimated that the OC input to the soil in 2099 needs to be between 51% (+ 1.3 Mg ha− 1) and 93% (+ 2.3 Mg ha− 1) higher than today to preserve current SOC stock levels. A SOC stock increase of 34.4% (4‰ a− 1) would even require an OC input increase of between 221% (+ 5.5 Mg ha− 1) and 283% (+ 7.1 Mg ha− 1).

Conclusions

Our study highlights that under climate change increasing SOC stocks is considerable challenging since projected SOC losses have to be compensated first before SOC built up is possible. This would require unrealistically high OC input increases with drastic changes in agricultural management.
Valuing health-related quality of life using a hybrid approach: Tunisian value set for the EQ-5D-3L
Authors: Chemli Jaafar , Drira Chema , Felfel Hajer , Roudijk Bram , Al Sayah Fatima , Kouki Mokhtar , Kooli Amna , Razgallah Khrouf Myriam
Published: January 2021

Objective

To develop a value set for EQ-5D-3L based on the societal preferences of the Tunisian population.

Methods

A representative sample of the Tunisian general population was obtained through multistage quota sampling involving age, gender and region. Participants (n = 327), aged above 20 years, were interviewed using the EuroQol Portable Valuation Technology in face-to-face computer-assisted interviews. Participants completed 10 composite time trade-off (cTTO) and 10 discrete choice experiments (DCE) tasks. Utility values for the EQ-5D-3L health states were estimated using regression modeling. The cTTO and DCE data were analyzed using linear and conditional logistic regression modeling, respectively. Multiple hybrid models were computed to analyze the combined data and were compared on goodness of fit measured by the Akaike information criterion (AIC).

Results

A total of 300 participants with complete data that met quality criteria were included. All regression models showed both logical consistency and significance with respect to the parameter estimates. A hybrid model accounting for heteroscedasticity presented the lowest value for the AIC among the hybrid models. Hence, it was used to construct the Tunisian EQ-5D-3L valuation set with a range of predicted values from − 0.796 to 1.0.

Conclusion

This study provides utility values for EQ-5D-3L health states for the Tunisian population. This value set will be used in economic evaluations of health technologies and for Tunisian health policy decision-making.
Patient-reported outcome measures in pediatric solid organ transplantation: Exploring stakeholder perspectives on clinical implementation through qualitative description
Authors: Anthony Samantha J. , Young Katarina , Pol Sarah J. , Selkirk Enid K. , Blydt-Hansen Tom , Boucher Suzanne , Goldberg Aviva , Hamiwka Lorraine , Haverman Lotte , Mitchell Joanna , Urschel Simon , Santana Maria , Stinson Jennifer , Sutherland Katie , West Lori J.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are standardized instruments used to collect data about the subjective assessment of medical care from the patient perspective. Implementing PROMs within pediatric clinical settings has gained increasing importance as health services prioritize patient-centred pediatric care. This study explores the perspectives of pediatric solid organ transplant patients, caregivers, and healthcare practitioners (HCPs) on implementing PROMs into clinical practice.

Methods

Qualitative description methods were used to elicit stakeholder perspectives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted across five Canadian transplant centres. Purposive sampling was used to obtain maximum variation across age, gender, and transplant program for all participants, as well as discipline for HCPs.

Results

The study included a total of 63 participants [patients (n = 20), caregivers (n = 22) and HCPs (n = 21)]. Nearly all participants endorsed the implementation of PROMs to enhance pediatric transplant clinical care. Three primary roles for PROMs emerged: (1) to bring a transplant patient’s overall well-being into the clinical care conversation; (2) to improve patient communication and engagement; and, (3) to inform the practice of clinical pediatric transplant care. Insights for effective implementation included completing electronic PROMs remotely and prior to clinical appointments by patients who are eight to 10 years of age or older.

Conclusions

This study contributes to current research that supports the use of PROMs in clinical pediatric care and guides their effective implementation into practice. Future directions include the development, usability testing, and evaluation of a proposed electronic PROM platform that will inform future research initiatives.
Correction to: Thinking embodiment with genetics: epigenetics and postgenomic biology in embodied cognition and enactivism
Authors: Meloni Maurizio , Reynolds Jack
Published: January 2021

The article Thinking embodiment with genetics: epigenetics and postgenomic biology in embodied cognition and enactivism, written by Maurizio Meloni and Jack Reynolds, was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal on 18 June 2020 without open access. With the author(s)’ decision to opt for Open Choice the copyright of the article changed on 6 November 2020 to ©The Author(s) 2020 and the article is forthwith distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution.