bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ancestry dynamics and trait selection in a designer cat breed
Authors: Kaelin Christopher B. , McGowan Kelly A. , Hutcherson Anthony D. , Delay John M. , Barsh Gregory S.
Published: December 2022

The Bengal cat breed was developed from intercrosses between the Asian leopard cat,Prionailurus bengalensis, and the domestic cat,Felis silvestris catus, with a last common ancestor 6 million years ago. Predicted to contain ~95% of their genome from domestic cats, regions of the leopard cat genome are thought to account for unique pelage traits and ornate color patterns of the Bengal breed, which are similar to those of ocelots and jaguars. We explore ancestry distribution and selection signatures in the Bengal breed using reduced representation and whole genome sequencing from 905 cats. Overall, leopard cat introgressions are reduced twofold from expectation and include examples of genetic incompatibility—reduced expression of a leopard cat gene in a domestic cat background—underlying the color traitsCharcoaland contributing to coat color variation. Leopard cat introgressions do not show strong signatures of selection; instead, selective sweeps in Bengal cats are associated with domestic, rather than leopard cat haplotypes, and harbor candidate genes for pelage and color pattern. We identify the molecular and phenotypic basis of one selective sweep as reduced expression of theFgfr2gene, which underliesGlitter, a desirable trait that affects hair texture and light reflectivity.
Surfactant Proteins SP-B and SP-C in Pulmonary Surfactant Monolayers: Physical Properties Controlled by Specific Protein–Lipid Interactions
Authors: Liekkinen Juho , Olżyńska Agnieszka , Cwiklik Lukasz , de la Serna Jorge Bernardino , Vattulainen Ilpo , Javanainen Matti
Published: December 2022

The lining of the alveoli is covered by pulmonary surfactant, a complex mixture of surface-active lipids and proteins that enables efficient gas exchange between inhaled air and the circulation. Despite decades of advancements in the study of the pulmonary surfactant, the molecular scale behavior of the surfactant and the inherent role of the number of different lipids and proteins in surfactant behavior are not fully understood. The most important proteins in this complex system are the surfactant proteins SP-B and SP-C. Given this, in this work we performed non-equilibrium all-atom molecular dynamics simulations to study the interplay of SP-B and SP-C with multi-component lipid monolayers mimicking the pulmonary surfactant in composition. The simulations were complemented byz-scan fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy measurements. Our state-of-the-art simulation model reproduces experimental pressure–area isotherms and lateral diffusion coefficients. In agreement with previous research, the inclusion of either SP-B and SP-C increases surface pressure, and our simulations provide a molecular scale explanation for this effect: The proteins display preferential lipid interactions with phosphatidylglycerol, they reside predominantly in the lipid acyl chain region, and they partition into the liquid expanded phase or even induce it in an otherwise packed monolayer. The latter effect is also visible in our atomic force microscopy images. The research done contributes to a better understanding of the roles of specific lipids and proteins in surfactant function, thus helping to develop better synthetic products for surfactant replacement therapy used in the treatment of many fatal lung-related injuries and diseases.
Phase 1 of the National Institutes of Health Preprint Pilot: Testing the viability of making preprints discoverable in PubMed Central and PubMed
Authors: Funk Kathryn , Zayas-Cabán Teresa , Beck Jeffrey
Published: December 2022

Introduction

The National Library of Medicine (NLM) launched a Pilot in June 2020 to: 1) explore the feasibility and utility of adding preprints to PubMed Central (PMC) and making them discoverable in PubMed, and 2) to support accelerated discoverability of National Institutes of Health (NIH)-supported research without compromising user trust in NLM’s widely used literature services.

Methods

The first phase of the Pilot focused on archiving preprints reporting NIH-supported SARS-CoV-2 virus and COVID-19 research. To launch Phase 1, NLM identified eligible preprint servers and developed processes for identifying NIH-supported preprints within scope in these servers. Processes were also developed for the ingest and conversion of preprints in PMC and to send corresponding records to PubMed. User interfaces were modified for display of preprint records. NLM collected data on the preprints ingested and discovery of preprint records in PMC and PubMed and engaged users through focus groups and a survey to obtain direct feedback on the Pilot and perceptions of preprints.

Results

Between June 2020 and June 2022, NLM added more than 3,300 preprint records to PMC (viewed 4 million times) and PubMed (viewed 3 million times) Nearly one-quarter of preprints in the Pilot were not associated with a peer-reviewed published journal article. User feedback revealed that the inclusion of preprints did not have a notable impact on trust in PMC or PubMed.

Discussion

NIH-supported preprints can be identified and added to PMC and PubMed without disrupting existing operations processes. Additionally, inclusion of preprints in PMC and PubMed accelerates discovery of NIH research without reducing trust in NLM literature services. Phase 1 of the Pilot provided a useful testbed for studying NIH investigator preprint posting practices, as well as knowledge gaps among user groups, during the COVID-19 public health emergency, an unusual time with heightened interest in immediate access to research results.
Wedgewood Nougat: Challenges in a niche premium brand expansion
Authors: Dutton Kyle , Reyneke Mignon
Published: December 2022

Subject area of the teaching case:

This teaching case is well suited for short courses focussed on brand equity or marketing. It explores the following themes:

Premium brand equity: managing the brand in different markets, and the process involved in finding the right partners who care about the brand.

Market entry and penetration: strategies for growing in a market, testing a new market, and identifying the right products for a specific market.

Product expansion: the considerations that need to be made when a company is expanding its brand into new markets.

Student level:

This teaching case is specifically aimed at postgraduate students completing a management diploma or a professional development course.

Brief overview of the teaching case:

This case is about a premium confectionery brand Wedgewood. The company started in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa in 1999, with founder Gilly Walters’ handcrafted nougat aimed at a high-income target market. The retail product went on to be sold in stores nationwide. The company has since diversified its product range and tested markets both locally and abroad, with varying levels of success. In early 2020, Paul Walters, CEO, is considering options for the company. While his brother, Jon Walters, head of production and product development, is keen to increase global exports, Paul is less sure. The brand has been developed over the years and the product line expanded to consist of nougat, energy bars, and biscuits. While considering international markets, Paul must keep tabs on how to align the various brands in the process, and limit any potential damage to the brand equity to a minimum. With the company poised for exponential growth entering new international markets, Paul must consider the best expansion strategy. With business growth will they be able to maintain the core values of the business and the brand? Wedgewood will also need to think about staffing resources that would be required should they take on a massive international expansion.

Expected learning outcomes:

To analyse how a small family-owned business is able to achieve sustainable growth and expand its footprint

To evaluate which business model creates the best platform for the expansion of a premium niche brand

To create a branding strategy for international brand expansion
Eden All Natural peanut butter: A small enterprise competing in a saturated South African market
Authors: Jere Mlenga
Published: December 2022

Subject area of the teaching case:

The case is particularly well suited to courses in marketing, promotion, integrated marketing communication, or marketing for small and medium enterprises.

Student level:

This teaching case is aimed at postgraduate students in management or business programmes.

Brief overview of the teaching case:

This case focusses on the growth direction and product promotion decisions of Debbie Ncube, cofounder and managing director of Eden All Natural (Eden) - an award-winning small enterprise that competes in the peanut butter category - in 2021. Conservative with the use of the company’s financial resources, Ncube has to reconsider Eden’s reliance on word-of-mouth, social media, and network marketing for promoting her range of natural peanut and other nut-based products. The case requires students to identify and evaluate the growth options available to Eden, to consider the strategy decisions around product line management and brand development, and to explore the role of packaging in effective product promotion.

Expected learning outcomes:

To develop strategic product-market growth options (using the market diversification matrix) for a growing enterprise

To recommend what product line management and brand development strategies can be employed as the product mix gets bigger

To explore how packaging could continue to be leveraged to grow sales
Inverroche: Maintaining brand equity in craft gin through brand acquisition
Authors: Peer Tal , Reyneke Mignon
Published: December 2022

Subject area of the teaching case:

It is well suited for short courses focussed on brand equity or marketing.

Student level:

This teaching case is specifically aimed at postgraduate students completing a management diploma or a professional development course.

Brief overview of the teaching case:

Inverroche, one of South Africa’s first artisianl gins, faces an interesting brand dilemma. By the end of 2016 through a distribution agreement with a large wholesaler, it secures a national footprint and becomes available at all leading retailers, resturants, and bars. The product’s immense growth trajectory attracts the attention of the global drinks conglomerates who see an opportunity to secure market share in the lucrative craft gin segment of the market. Founder Lorna Scott grapples with whether she has made the right choice to sell a majority share of her beloved brand to the global house of brands, Pernod Ricard. In this case, she meets with her sales team to debrief the situation as well as have a heart-to-heart with Alex Farnell, general manager of sales and marketing. The case looks at the Inverroche brand in detail, what it represents, and why it resonates so intrinsically with consumers. However, Scott and Farnell differ in opinion on the strategic objectives of the brand. Farnell seems to think that the sale to Pernod will not harm the brand, but Scott is torn. How does a niche artisinal brand scale? Can a brand remain authentic when it does scale? Is there any commercial sense in remaining artisinal? Is an artisinal brand’s brand equity compromised when it is sold to a corporate house of brands? All of these questions relate to whether a brand can remain authenthically artisinal amidst a corporate acquisition.

Expected learning outcomes:

To identify the challenges of growing an artisinal brand

To identify the challenges of achieving scale as well as the marketing and commercial costs and profits scale represents

To identify how to build a brand that resonates with consumers

To critically assess the link between brand building, distribution, and availability

To analyse the impact of brand architecture on brand equity
Employer collaboration in developing graduate employability: a pilot study in Ireland
Authors: O'Regan Miriam , Carthy Aiden , McGuinness Colm , Owende Philip
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the impact on student work readiness outcomes of collaboration with employers in developing and delivering tailored graduate employability workshops in socio-emotional skills for work (SES4Work).

Design/methodology/approach

Framed by the CareerEDGE model of graduate employability, the authors piloted a five-session module for near graduates in five disciplines. The research included an online employer survey (n = 128), employer interviews (n = 21) and tailored workshops for near graduates, culminating in a mock competency-based interview. Using a pre/post-test design, participants (n = 24) also completed the CareerEDGE Employability Development Profile (EDP) and the Trait Emotional Intelligence questionnaire (TEIque).

Findings

After completing the module, there was a statistically significant improvement in participant scores on the CareerEDGE EDP +12.3%, p < 0.001, effect size (Cohen's d) 0.89, large, and the TEIque +6.4%, p = 0.009, effect size (Cohen's d) 0.61, moderate. Furthermore, 70% (n = 17) of participants were “hired” based on their mock interviews, with 12% (n = 4) offered employer connections after graduation.

Originality/value

This is the first academic research in Ireland to develop and evaluate an enterprise-collaborative, discipline-specific module for enhancing graduate employability. Findings suggest that employer collaboration can enhance the efficacy of employability interventions and therefore merits further research.
Bottom-up approach: the participation of Fridays For Future in the climate emergency declaration in the University of Salamanca
Authors: Reyes-Carrasco Paula Mariel , Ferrari Enzo , Ruíz Méndez Camilo , Barrón Ruíz Angela
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to describe the process leading the climate emergency declaration (CED) at the University of Salamanca. In contrast to similar initiatives, this was achieved with the participation of students on the social movement Fridays For Future Salamanca.

Design/methodology/approach

The context of the CED is described. Statements in Spanish universities are used for comparison and internal reports and evaluations were analyzed to measure the progress. Testimonies from the proponents of the declaration and from the agents implementing actions were classified to describe the roles and dynamics involved in the participatory process. Twitter and newspapers are also used to complete the data triangulation.

Findings

The results show that Climate Emergency has been enriched by a bottom-up approach, generating challenges and opportunities to take into account when considering community participation. A university that aspires to be a role model for a low-carbon future needs to address how to construct efficient participatory mechanisms. In that matter, the authors propose their experience that might be useful for other institutions.

Originality/value

The CED is a common practice in universities but it is not always associated with specific actions and policies. In this case, the main feature is the students participation, in particular the social movement Fridays For Future.
Risk assessment supporting the establishment of a maximum residue limit for ractopamine in beef liver, applicable in the Arab Republic of Egypt
Authors: Godefroy Samuel Benrejeb , Dominguez Silvia , Feeley Mark , Théolier Jérémie , Alla Sohair A. Gad , Samel Alex , Shedeed Khaled , Helmy Eman , Mansour Hussein
Published: December 2022

In 2012, the Codex Alimentarius Commission adopted maximum residue limits (MRLs) for ractopamine in pig and cattle tissues. Egypt, a country that records a high consumption of beef liver, conducted a health risk assessment to estimate the risks associated with the adoption of Codex MRLs and the possible adoption of alternative values that may offer higher protection. Ractopamine was characterized based on previous assessments performed by international regulatory agencies, and an acceptable daily intake was set at 1 µg/kg bw for both chronic and acute ractopamine exposure. Beef liver consumption data for the Egyptian population were collected through a field survey (529 households, 1929 individuals). The standard body weight of 60 kg was used, as well as 70 kg, as a potentially more representative weight for the Egyptian population. Simulations showed that when the MRL for ractopamine in beef liver is set to 40 µg/kg (Codex MRL) or 20 µg/kg, the health‐based guidance value of 1 µg/kg bw was not exceeded, as a result of chronic or acute exposure. An MRL of 20 µg/kg of ractopamine in beef liver was shown to provide optimum protection of Egyptian consumers, considering other potential sources of ractopamine intake and abnormally high consumption patterns, and was therefore recommended for adoption in Egypt. This study presents the inputs, model, and results of the probabilistic risk assessment that supported such recommendation.

Practical Application

Residues of veterinary drugs, such as ractopamine, accumulate in animal tissues and may pose a risk to consumers. Establishing maximum residue limits (MRLs) will help importers by giving them the necessary visibility for commercial trade. It will also benefit Egyptian consumers, large consumers of beef liver, who will be better protected with a lower MRL than the internationally recommended one.
Healing process of myocardial edema in acute perimyocarditis: Observation by speckle‐tracking echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance parametric mapping
Authors: Adachi Hidenori , Ihara Madoka , Nojima Yuhei , Nanto Shinsuke
Published: December 2022

This report describes the case of a 42‐year‐old male patient with acute viral perimyocarditis. The case study serves as a demonstration of the use of speckle‐tracking echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in monitoring myocardial changes associated with perimyocarditis. It explores the possibility that regional longitudinal strain (LS) may predict prognosis in the affected areas of the myocardium, and could reflect more advanced areas of myocyte damage within myocardial edema.
Long‐term low‐dose cabergoline usage: Another association with cardiac valvulopathy
Authors: Tessier Steven , Lipton Brooke A. , Arastu Mohammad I. , Curiale Andrew M. , Longo Santo , Nanda Sudip
Published: December 2022

A 60‐year‐old patient, professor of physics, presented in 1999 with sudden‐onset vitiligo associated with hyperprolactinemia and a prolactinoma. Fearful of potential surgical complications at the peak of his career, the patient declined surgery and opted for medical management with bromocriptine. The decreasing effectiveness of bromocriptine after 5 years required a switch to cabergoline. After a 15‐year‐course of cabergoline therapy with a cumulative dose of 572 mg, echocardiographic monitoring demonstrated aortic and mitral valve thickening and regurgitation. An additional 3 years of cabergoline treatment (cumulative dose: 649 mg) resulted in worsening valve thickening and regurgitation. It is well‐recognized that such valvular changes may occur with high‐dose cabergoline treatment. We report a case of mitral and aortic vavulopathy in a patient who was treated with long‐term (18 years) low‐dosage (.5–1 mg weekly) cabergoline.

cabergoline, echocardiography, valvulopathy
Cor triatriatum sinister diagnosed in a patient with postoperative cerebral infarction after beach chair position: A case report
Authors: Cho Sung‐Ae , Huh Inho , Hwang Wan Jin , Cho Choon‐Kyu , Sung Tae‐Yun
Published: December 2022

Cor triatriatum sinister is a rare congenital heart disease in which the left atrium is divided into two compartments by a fibromuscular membrane. In most cases, its symptoms appear in childhood, and it is rarely diagnosed in adulthood. Patients with cor triatriatum sinister are more prone to neurological diseases, such as cerebral infarction. Herein, we report the case of a patient whose cor triatriatum sinister went undiagnosed in the preoperative evaluation, but was diagnosed whilst investigating a cerebral infarction that occurred following a surgery in the beach chair position. It highlights the potential complications in otherwise healthy asymptomatic patients undergoing surgery in the beach chair position. Additionally, in high‐risk patients, the provision of clear communication, in advance, regarding potential complications and their management, may reduce the patient's morbidity.
‘I don't know what to do or where to go’. Experiences of accessing healthcare support from the perspectives of people living with Long Covid and healthcare professionals: A qualitative study in Bradford, UK
Authors: Baz Sarah A. , Fang Chao , Carpentieri J. D. , Sheard Laura
Published: December 2022

Background

In October 2022, it was estimated 2.3 million people in the United Kingdom have self‐reported Long Covid (LC). Many people have reported not receiving adequate healthcare support. There is a lack of research which provides an in‐depth exploration of the barriers faced by people with LC in accessing healthcare support. It is important to understand these barriers to provide better support, care and advice for those experiencing LC.

Objective

To understand the barriers faced in accessing primary, secondary and specialist healthcare support for people with LC.

Design and Participation

40 interviews were conducted with people living with LC in Bradford alongside 12 interviews with healthcare professionals (HCPs) providing LC support in Bradford healthcare settings. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

People living with LC had a large degree of difficulty in accessing healthcare services for LC support. We categorized the healthcare access experiences of participants into five main types: (1) being unable to access primary care, (2) accessing primary care but receiving (perceived) inadequate support, (3) extreme persistence, (4) alternatives to mainstream health care and (5) positive experiences. There was a severe lack of access to specialist LC services. Ethnic minority participants faced a further barrier of mistrust and fear of services deterring them from accessing support. HCPs discussed systemic barriers to delivering services. Experiences were embedded in macrostructural issues further exacerbated by the pandemic.

Conclusion

To better support people with LC, the barriers faced in accessing healthcare support must be addressed. Of significance, improvements to general practitioner access are required; especially as GPs are the first line of support for people living with LC.

Patient and Public Involvement

A patient and public involvement group is engaged at regular intervals in the project.
APPROXIMATING ALGORITHMS: FROM DISCRIMINATING DATA TO TALKING WITH AN AI
Authors: Hayles N. Katherine
Published: December 2022

Wendy Hui Kyong Chun's Discriminating Data: Correlation, Neighborhoods, and the New Politics of Recognition offers important tools to understand and, more importantly, transform the algorithms perpetuating and intensifying discrimination in North American societies. Unpacking her work's implications, this essay offers seven approximations—ranging from eliminating bias to rethinking the symbiotic relations between humans and computational media—as solutions to the problems she identifies. While some approximations reveal limitations in others, the clashes between them are due to the scope of the frameworks they employ. All are useful in the struggle to comprehend, in both small and large terms, the nature of the profound changes in the contemporary condition as computational media penetrate ever more deeply into the fabrics of our lives.
Consistent seasonal foraging niche segregation between critically endangered Whenua Hou Diving Petrels and abundant Common Diving Petrels
Authors: Tocker Grace E. , Fischer Johannes H. , Bustamante Paco , Guillou Gaël , Debski Igor , Taylor Graeme A. , Ritchie Peter A. , Wittmer Heiko U.
Published: December 2022

Investigations into niche dynamics and interspecific interactions are crucial to assess the vulnerability of threatened species to competition and environmental change. The Whenua Hou Diving Petrel Pelecanoides whenuahouensis is a critically endangered seabird, specializing in breeding in sand dunes in Aotearoa (New Zealand). The species is at risk from competition for burrow sites with the abundant, habitat‐generalist Common Diving Petrel Pelecanoides urinatrix chathamensis, among other terrestrial and near‐shore threats (storm‐induced erosion and vessel‐based light pollution). However, Whenua Hou Diving Petrel foraging niches at sea and associated threats are poorly understood. We sampled blood and feathers from both species on Whenua Hou (Codfish Island) during 2017–19 and used stable isotope (δ15N and δ13C) analyses to quantify foraging niche dynamics and interspecific interactions. During incubation periods, when birds are restricted by central place foraging, diving petrels exhibited clear niche segregation. Whenua Hou Diving Petrels were more generalist feeders with wider isotopic niches than Common Diving Petrels, which exhibited restricted isotopic niches and fed in neritic waters. During non‐breeding periods, foraging niches expanded, and segregation was reduced, as both species dispersed into the Southern Ocean. These patterns were largely consistent among years, despite varying climatic conditions. However, Common Diving Petrel foraging niches appeared to shrink during El Niño conditions, suggesting environmental sensitivity. In contrast, the consistently stable, generalist foraging niches of Whenua Hou Diving Petrels suggested potential limited sensitivity to competition and impacts of environmental change at sea. Recovery efforts should, therefore, focus on addressing the previously identified terrestrial and near‐shore threats.
Malnutrition and clinical outcomes post alloSCT
Authors: Jefferis Madison , Andersen Sarah , Brown Teresa , Curley Cameron , Bauer Judy
Published: December 2022

Background

Malnutrition has been linked with higher risk of poor outcomes post‐allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT); however, few studies have used a validated nutrition assessment tool such as the Patient Generated Subjective Global Assessment (i.e., PG‐SGA) to measure nutritional status and investigate associations with long‐term clinical outcomes. The present study aimed to assess the incidence of malnutrition prior to alloSCT and determine whether there was an association between nutritional status pre‐transplant and post‐transplant clinical outcomes including acute kidney injury, graft‐versus‐host disease, intensive care admission, need for haemodialysis and survival.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 362 patients (213 males:149 females, mean ± SD age = 47.8 ± 14.1 years) who underwent alloSCT from 2008 to 2013 was conducted. Data on clinical outcomes were obtained for 5 years post‐transplant.

Results

Fifteen percent (n = 56) of patients were identified as malnourished pre‐admission. Malnutrition was associated with longer hospital stay (p = 0.007), increased requirement for haemodialysis (p = 0.016) and increased admissions to the intensive care unit (p = 0.003). There was no association between malnutrition and acute kidney injury, graft‐versus‐host disease or survival. Following multivariate analyses, malnutrition remained significantly associated with increased admission rates to the intensive care unit (odds ratio = 3.8, 95% confidence interval = 1.3–10.5, p = 0.011) and increased length of hospital stay > 30 days (odds ratio = 3.6. 95% confidence interval = 1.8–7.4, p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

These findings add importance to the need for nutrition screening and assessment to be routinely undertaken for patients prior to alloSCT and throughout hospitalisation to provide early nutrition intervention for the prevention of malnutrition, poor clinical outcomes and increased healthcare costs.
Dialogic landscapes: Toward a nuanced understanding of globalization in urban Indonesian signage
Authors: Tamtomo Kristian , Goebel Zane
Published: December 2022

This article shows that a perspective rooted in Bakhtin's dialogism between the fixed centripetal and fluid centrifugal forces of language and culture is useful in achieving a nuanced understanding of globalization in general and semiotic landscapes in Indonesia in particular. Drawing on data from Indonesia, this article shows dialogic interconnections between fixed and fluid notions of languages and cultures through a multimodal and indexical analysis of governmental and commercial signage in the urban center of Semarang, the provincial capital of Central Java. The analysis highlights the nuanced localizing and globalizing strategies in signage and how dialogicity helps shape the semiotic landscape.
Activist purpose orientation: Definition and predictors
Authors: Wilson Megan E. , Hill Patrick L.
Published: December 2022

Activism is responsible for many of the positive social changes we have seen across time, and is central to pushing for continued social change. However, these positive outcomes do not come without a cost, as activism can also be draining and can lead to physical and emotional harm for those involved. Social policies and intervention programs have addressed how to help people maintain their engagement with activism aims, though few have considered the motivational role of purpose in life. As purpose in life involves a sustained commitment to one's goals, having a purpose in life centered around activism may help an individual remain committed to activism and to the creation of change in the face of these obstacles. If activist purpose can help us understand and predict who is likely to remain engaged in activism, then it is valuable to consider what factors influence the development of activist purpose, in order to continue necessary social change. Thus, in this work we define activist purpose, and theorize as to what factors may be relevant to the development of an activist purpose by situating predictors of activism and collective action within the literature on pathways to purpose in life. This work may thus provide a greater understanding of how to encourage activism or reduce the harmful effects associated with activism.
The effect of plant mycotrophy and soil disturbance on soil microbial activity
Authors: Conceição Taiana A. , Goss Michael , Andrade Galdino , Brito Isabel
Published: December 2022

In cropping systems, the choices adopted for the tillage system used and plants cultivated can strongly influence the soil microbial population and its functional profile. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are an important component of soil microbiome and their mutualistic symbiosis with the majority of higher plants grant the latter a wide range of benefits. The extraradical mycelium developed by these fungi expands the volume of soil influenced and harbours a diversity of microbes establishing a distinct environment of complementary interactions. We assessed how growing plants with different levels of mycotrophy modifies the biological activity profile in the soil under Mn toxicity and whether this is modified by soil disturbance. Following mycotrophic plants, soil contained a more active microbiome than after the non‐mycotrophic plants, as expressed by higher values of soil basal respiration or dehydrogenase activity. Additionally, the count of phosphorus solubilizes and activity of phosphatase were greater after mycotrophic plants. Even among mycotrophic plants, different profiles of biological activity can be distinguished after growing a legume or grass. ERM disruption by soil disturbance decreased most of the parameters studied and for phosphatase activity and P solubilizers in a more significant way. These results indicate that even under Mn toxicity, the microbiome associated with AMF symbiosis following mycotrophic plants growth presented a higher biological activity and had a differential biological response towards the stress imposed by soil disturbance, when compared with the microbiome associated with non‐mycotrophic roots.
The Americanization of Barbadian English
Authors: Stuka Christine
Published: December 2022

This paper investigates attitudes and perceptions of Barbadians toward British and American English on the one hand, and the degree of structural Americanization of contemporary Barbadian English as documented in a corpus of Facebook comments on the other hand. The results indicate a discrepancy between explicitly formulated preferences and actual production patterns; while American English is devalued by most respondents, the advancement of cross‐linguistic influence of American English on the levels of orthography and lexicon of Barbadian English is undeniable. The findings further suggest a continued linguistic identification with British norms in the perception of many Barbadians, while the awareness of an emerging local standard variety is only slowly gaining ground.
Introduction: Englishes of the Caribbean
Authors: Meer Philipp , Schmalz Mirjam
Published: December 2022

The English‐official Caribbean provides an insightful context for investigations of norm developmental processes, world Englishes theorizing, and mapping Englishes in multivarietal communities. While there has been an upsurge of linguistic research on the region, especially on emerging standardized varieties, little systematic empirical research exists on smaller Caribbean islands, select domain‐specific patterns of production and perception in larger territories, and regional issues of standardization. This special issue addresses current research gaps and provides a well‐rounded picture of language production and perception research in the anglophone Caribbean. The issue consists of articles with a variety of different methodological approaches, including corpus‐linguistic, sociolinguistic, acoustic phonetic, ethnographic, and language attitudinal investigations. It covers a wide range of smaller (Bequia, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Kitts) and larger territories (the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, and Trinidad). While the articles scrutinize the anglophone Caribbean, several of the issues raised have relevance for world Englishes research more generally.
La digitalización en el mercado de seguros
Authors: Benito Osma Félix
Published: December 2022

El citado artículo trata de responder a los riesgos que van a ser transferidos al mercado de seguros en un nuevo contexto de transformación digital desde el principio de prudencia, transparencia, sostenibilidad y gobernanza.
El impacto de la pandemia ocasionada por el virus covid-19 en los seguros
Authors: Herrera Díaz Rebeca
Published: December 2022

La pandemia ocasionada por le virus del Covid-19 tuvo impacto en el derecho seguros, pues al materializarse un nuevo riesgo catastrófico fue necesario ajustar los clausulados y la decisiones administrativas y judiciales en materia de siniestros, pero también demostró la resiliencia de la industria aseguradora en el ámbito global. En este artículo buscamos ilustrar los principales ajustes que se dieron en los clausulados de los seguros de vida, la gestión de las reclamaciones en los seguros de interrupción de negocio con ocasión de las pérdidas ocasionadas por las medidas de aislamiento y la gestión de las reclamaciones en los seguros de fianza, caución o de cumplimiento.
La pandemia de Covid-19 y los nuevos riesgos
Authors: Behr Palacios Carlos
Published: December 2022

Se trata de una Nota del Ponente en el marco del CILA COSTA RICA 2022, con reflexiones sobre la realidad que vivió el Perú y el mundo de los Seguros, durante la Pandemia COVID-19.

Se hace un breve análisis de la realidad que vivieron los Asegurados y las Aseguradoras durante la crisis sanitaria mundial y como impactó ello en los Seguros.
Los seguros cibernéticos: Alcance frente a los Ciber Riesgos
Authors: Signorino Barbat Andrea
Published: December 2022

Hoy en día, lo cibernético se caracteriza por ser todo lo relacionado con la tecnología informática, especialmente, pero no sólo, con Internet. En estos momentos se habla mundialmente de los Cyber Risks o Ciber Riesgos, refiriéndose a los riesgos que acechan en el ciberespacio.

En este artículo se brinda una aproximación no tradicional a lo que puede considerarse un riesgo del Ciber entorno, que tiene que ver con los riesgos que acechan al consumidor-asegurado, a las empresas de seguros y en general, y la posible discriminación y afectación moral que las tecnologías basadas en la inteligencia artificial pueden generar a los seres humanos.

Sin embargo, no todos los ciber riesgos pueden ser asegurados y, en este sentido, concluiremos qué riesgos pueden ser cubiertos o gestionados por el seguro y cuáles no.
La Sentencia de la Corte Interamericana sobre el Derecho a la Salud y sus Efectos en la Legislación y en la Administración de Justicia de la República del Perú
Authors: Nuñez del Prado Simons Alonso
Published: December 2022

El autor analiza la sentencia de la Corte Interamericana y sus efectos en la legislación y administración de justicia en el Perú.
Robust Static Output Feedback with Dynamic Disturbance Feed-forward for Lateral Control of Long-combination Vehicles At High Speeds
Authors: Sadeghi Kati Maliheh , Kӧroğlu Hakan , Fredriksson Jonas , Islam Mohammad Manjurul
Published: December 2022

A control strategy is proposed to improve the high-speed lateral performance of an A-double (tractor-semitrailer-dolly-semitrailer) combination vehicle using active steering of the front axle of the dolly. The strategy is realized as a H∞-type static output feedback combined with dynamic feed-forward. The static output feedback synthesis is based on a previous work from the literature, while novel linear matrix inequality (LMI) conditions have been derived for dynamic feed-forward synthesis that can also be used for uncertain systems. The proposed controller has a simple structure and is easy to implement from a practical point of view since it requires only the driver steering angle (for feed-forward) and just one articulation angle measurement (for feedback). Obtained using a high-fidelity vehicle model, the synthesis results confirm a significant reduction in the rearward amplifications of the yaw rate and the lateral acceleration as well as the high-speed transient off-tracking during sudden lane change maneuvers.
Investigation on Applicability of Subchannel Analysis Code ASFRE to Thermal Hydraulics Analysis in Fuel Assembly With Inner Duct Structure of Sodium Cooled Fast Reactor
Authors: Kikuchi Norihiro , Imai Yasutomo , Yoshikawa Ryuji , Doda Norihiro , Tanaka Masaaki
Published: December 2022

In the design study of an advanced sodium-cooled fast reactor (advanced-SFR) in Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA), the use of a specific fuel assembly (FA) with an inner duct structure called fuel assembly with an inner duct structure (FAIDUS) has been investigated to enhance safety of Advanced-SFR. Due to the asymmetric layout of fuel rods by the inner duct, it is necessary to estimate the coolant temperature distribution to confirm feasibility of FAIDUS. In JAEA, an in-house subchannel analysis code named thermal-hydraulic analysis of asymmetrical flow in reactor elements (ASFRE) has been developed as a FA design tool. For the typical FAs, the numerical results of ASFRE had been validated by comparisons with experimental data, in the previous study. As for the FAIDUS, confirmation of validity of the numerical results by ASFRE was not enough because the reference data on the thermal hydraulics in FAIDUS have not been obtained by the mockup experiment, yet. In this paper, therefore, the code-to-code comparisons with numerical results of ASFRE and those of an in-house computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code named single-phase thermal-hydraulic analysis in an irregular rod array layout (SPIRAL) were applied to make further discussion on applicability of ASFRE to the thermal hydraulics analysis in FAIDUS. Thermal hydraulic analyses of a typical FA and FAIDUS at high and low flowrate conditions were conducted. The applicability of ASFRE was indicated through the confirmation of the consistency of mechanism on appearance of the specific temperature distributions between the numerical results by ASFRE and those by SPIRAL. In addition, the necessity of modification on the empirical constants in numerical model of ASFRE to improve the predictive accuracy was indicated.
Complete Genome Sequences of Eight
Faecalibacterium
sp. Strains Isolated from Healthy Human Stool
Authors: Fraccascia Davide , Chanyi Ryan M. , Altermann Eric , Roy Nicole C. , Flint Steve H. , McNabb Warren C.
Published: December 2022

Eight
Faecalibacterium
sp. strains were isolated from feces of healthy human volunteers. Here, we describe their genome sequences. The genome sizes ranged from 2.78 Mbp to 3.23 Mbp, with an average GC content of 56.6% and encoding 2,795 protein-coding genes on average.
Intracellular Transposition of Mobile Genetic Elements Associated with the Colistin Resistance Gene
mcr-1
Authors: Goodman Richard N. , Tansirichaiya Supathep , Brouwer Michael S. M. , Roberts Adam P.
Published: December 2022

By analyzing the intracellular transfer of clinically relevant transposons, we can understand the dissemination and evolution of drug resistance conferring mobile genetic elements (MGEs) once a plasmid enters a cell following conjugation. This knowledge will help further our understanding of how these important genes move through bacterial populations. Utilizing the pBACpAK entrapment vector has allowed us to determine the mobility of the novel
mcr-1
-containing transposon Tn
7511
.
Supplemental Material: Tectonomagmatic evolution of southwestern Laurentia: Insights from zircon U-Pb geochronology and hafnium isotopic composition of the Red Bluff Granite Suite, west Texas, USA
Authors: Mahar M.A. , al. et
Published: December 2022

Contains description of analytical methods, plotweighted mean εHf(t) of studied samples, cathodoluminescence (CL) images and backscattered electron (BSE) images of 18 selected zircons. Excel files contain geochronology and Hf isotopic data tables.
Supplemental Material: Using discordant U-Pb zircon data to re-evaluate the El Paso terrane: Late Paleozoic tectonomagmatic evolution of east-central California (USA) and intense hydrothermal activity in the Jurassic Sierra Nevada arc
Authors: Clemens-Knott D. , Gevedon M.
Published: December 2022

New U-Pb isotopic data for four plutonic and four metasedimentary samples from the Kern Plateau, along with sample descriptions, locations, and LA-ICPMS analytical conditions. New Hf isotopic data and published U-Pb multigrain TIMS ages for plutonic samples. Discordance modeling output for detrital samples, including select published detrital zircon samples from the Saddlebag Lake pendant.
Classical Density Functional Theory Approach to the Vibrational Properties and Lattice Specific Heat of a Quasi-One-Dimensional Antiferromagnet KFeSe2
Authors: Kuznetsov M. D. , Kiiamov A. G. , Tayurskii D. A.
Published: December 2022

We have performed ab initio calculations of vibrational properties of KFeSe2 compound utilizing density functional theory. Total and element specific phonon densities of states have been calculated within a direct approach of harmonic approximation. We have used phonon density of states to calculate lattice contribution to the specific heat. The calculated phonon density of states shows numerous of high-frequency vibrational modes of Fe and Se atoms, which strongly restricts application of the Debye model for analysis of the thermodynamic properties of KFeSe2. The results of this work can be used in a further estimation of the magnetic specific heat of KFeSe2.
Persistent renal replacement requirement following fulminant psittacosis infection in pregnancy
Authors: Guscoth Layla B , Taylor Dominic M , Coad Felicity
Published: December 2022

Chlamydia psittaciis a zoonotic bacterial infection that most commonly causes mild flu-like symptoms in humans. However, in pregnancy, it can present as fulminant psittacosis associated with systemic illness, disseminated intravascular coagulation, renal and hepatic failure. We describe a case of a veterinary nurse in her 30s who presented at 32 weeks’ gestation with rapidly progressive multiorgan failure, with positive,C. psittaciserology. Further history revealed that she had delivered a number of dead lambs in the preceding weeks to her illness, highlighting the importance of a thorough social history.C. psittacishould be suspected in the differential as a causative organism for severe pneumonia with multiorgan failure particularly in pregnant women with animal or bird contacts.
Gastric emphysema after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement
Authors: Mabuchi Sayaka , Mabuchi Hiroya , Watari Takashi
Published: December 2022

Emphysematous gastritis and gastric emphysema are different diseases. Sometimes, we treat the diseases without distinguishing them clearly because both are rare, and the mortality rate of emphysematous gastritis cases is high (55%). Gastric emphysema is more well known than is emphysematous gastritis after percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) placement (80%). Particularly, it is a self-healing disease, and treatment with antibiotics is not required. CT is commonly used to diagnose emphysematous gastritis and gastric emphysema. The amount of radiation exposure is a concern for performing multiple CTs following air disappearance in the gastric wall. Here, we report the case of a 92-year-old man with gastric emphysema after PEG. It was useful to follow-up the patient by performing radiographic examination, and the disease was managed conservatively without antibiotic administration. We report that distinguishing gastric emphysema from emphysematous gastritis was necessary. Moreover, performance excessive tests and treatments should be avoided.
The Thores Lake proglacial system: remnant stability in the rapidly changing Canadian High Arctic
Authors: Culley Alexander I. , Thaler Mary , Kochtitzky William , Iqaluk Pilipoosie , Rapp Josephine Z. , Rautio Milla , Kumagai Michio , Copland Luke , Vincent Warwick F. , Girard Catherine
Published: December 2022

We describe limnological data sets from Thores Lake, a large ice-contact proglacial lake in northern Ellesmere Island, Nunavut (82.65°N), including longitudinal and cross transects (vertical resolution 0.03 m, horizontal resolution 100–200 m). The lake is formed due to damming by Thores Glacier at its northwest margin, has multi-year ice cover and a cold (<1.54 °C) fresh water column with a bottom layer of <0 °C, high-conductivity water in the deepest basin. Thores Lake is ultraoligotrophic, with low nutrient and phytoplankton stocks. Accessory pigment data and metagenomics were used to describe the eukaryotic microbial community. Diversity and taxonomic composition in the water column were homogeneous down to a depth of 40 m, consistent with density profiles. Surface water at the glacier interface was characterized by high turbidity and total phosphorus concentrations, and a distinct phytoplankton community dominated by chlorophytes, whereas the lake water column had higher relative abundances of chrysophytes and photosynthetic dinoflagellates. Thores Lake has a contracted pelagic food web, with the highest trophic level occupied by phytoplankton-feeding rotifers, and no crustacean zooplankton; profiles showed that omega-3 fatty acids (FAs) ranged from <1% (glacier interface) to 3.6% (central lake) of total seston FAs. Given the stability of the Thores Glacier ice dam and the persistence of cold water capped by perennial ice, Thores Lake provides a baseline to assess the impact of climate change on far northern lakes.