bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conventional imaging is useful for assessment of equine pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma but underestimates bone involvement
Authors: Vandersmissen Maxime , Etienne Anne‐Laure , Dancot Michaël , Evrard Laurence , Beccati Francesca , Grulke Sigrid , Busoni Valeria
Published: August 2022

Background

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common pharyngeal neoplasm but is poorly documented with diagnostic imaging in veterinary literature.

Objectives

To describe the diagnostic imaging findings in horses with confirmed pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Horses with a definitive diagnosis of pharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma based on in situ biopsy and/or cytology were identified in 2 different centres. Multi‐modality imaging findings are reported.

Results

Six equids were included. On radiographic examination, increased pharyngeal opacity and reduction of pharyngeal lumen were observed in all horses, centred on the oropharynx (three cases), the laryngopharynx (two cases) or the nasopharynx (one case). A clearly delineated mass was visualised in four cases. Additional radiographic findings were border effacement of the epiglottis (5/6) or soft palate (3/6), thickening of the pharyngeal walls (4/6) or soft palate (3/6) and suspected retropharyngeal lymphadenomegaly (3/6). Ultrasonography was useful to highlight retropharyngeal (4/6) and mandibular (4/6) lymphadenopathy suggestive of metastatic dissemination. Computed tomographic images were available for two horses and detected bone lysis not visible on radiographs.

Main limitations

The number of cases was low, and computed tomography was not realised in all cases.

Conclusions

Findings support the usefulness of radiography and ultrasonography in horses with suspected pharyngeal neoplasia for a first‐line imaging diagnosis, in particular when endoscopy is impaired by a mass effect or dyspnoea. Computed tomography gives a more accurate assessment of bone involvement.
Online clinical supervision in couple and family therapy: A scoping review
Authors: Aviram Alon , Nadan Yochay
Published: August 2022

Online clinical supervision, or telesupervision, is a growing practice in couple and family therapy. This scoping review aims to identify and synthesize the existing body of knowledge regarding the utilization, experiences, and perceptions of telesupervision among the couple and family therapists and to highlight gaps in the literature. The review followed the five‐step approach proposed by Arksey et al. (2005). Fifteen articles were included and their analysis yielded four themes: 1. telesupervision competence; 2. setting and boundary management; 3. advantages of telesupervision; and 4. challenges of telesupervision. Our review clearly demonstrates the dearth of available conceptual and empirical work. The rapidly growing use of online therapy and telesupervision in couple and family therapy has created a critical need to expand this body of knowledge by collecting evidence that can later be translated into practice. Moreover, we identified several gaps in the existing body of knowledge, including a lack of reports on the efficacy of telesupervision and on the experiences, processes, and ascribed meanings of the supervisors and supervisees. We also noted a lack of practice and ethical guidelines for telesupervision. We conclude our analysis by suggesting areas and directions for further investigation.
Source–sink recruitment of red snapper: Connectivity between the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Karnauskas Mandy , Shertzer Kyle W. , Paris Claire B. , Farmer Nicholas A. , Switzer Theodore S. , Lowerre‐Barbieri Susan K. , Kellison G. Todd , He Ruoying , Vaz Ana C.
Published: August 2022

Geopolitical fishery management boundaries are often misaligned with the ecological population structure of marine species, which presents challenges for assessment and management of these species. Red snapper, Lutjanus campechanus, is an iconic and heavily exploited species in both the US Gulf of Mexico and off the southeastern US Atlantic coast and is managed separately in the two jurisdictions. It is hypothesized that the Atlantic red snapper stock is sustained partially by larval subsidies from the Gulf of Mexico. Here we use a biophysical modeling approach to simulate recruitment of red snapper across the entire Southeastern US region, and quantify rates of larval exchange across management jurisdictions. The biophysical framework simulates realistic red snapper behaviors and traits with respect to spatial distribution and timing of spawning, larval vertical migration and pelagic larval duration, and settlement habitat. Our results suggest that areas of the West Florida Shelf south of Tampa Bay are important sources of larvae for the Atlantic population, supplying as much as one third of the recruitment during some years. Yet, contributions of Gulf‐spawned red snapper to the Atlantic stock are highly dynamic given large variability in spatial and temporal patterns of red snapper recovery in each region. As such, effective management of the Gulf of Mexico red snapper stock, particularly the spawning population in southwest Florida, may have important consequences for the sustainable harvest of red snapper off the Atlantic coast.
Embedding lived experience into mental health academic research organizations: Critical reflections
Authors: Hawke Lisa D. , Sheikhan Natasha Y. , Jones Nev , Slade Mike , Soklaridis Sophie , Wells Samantha , Castle David
Published: August 2022

Background

As part of a growing emphasis on engaging people with lived experience of mental health conditions in mental health research, there are increasing calls to consider and embed lived experience throughout academic research institutes. This extends beyond the engagement of lay patients and also considers the potential roles of academic researchers with lived experience. When the lived experience of academic researchers is applied to academic work, there is the potential to improve the relevance of the research, while destigmatizing mental illness within academia. However, there are different and often contrasting perspectives on the way a lived experience academic researcher initiative should be implemented.

Objectives

This article describes some of the key issues to be considered when planning an initiative that leverages and values the lived experience of academic researchers, including the advantages and disadvantages of each potential approach.

Discussion & Recommendations

Institutions are encouraged to reflect on the ways that they might support and value lived experience among academic researchers. In developing any such initiative, institutions are encouraged to be transparent about their objectives and values, undertake a careful planning process, involve researchers with lived experience from the outset and consistently challenge the stigma experienced by academic researchers with lived experience.

Patient or Public Contribution

Multiple authors are academic researchers with lived experience of mental health conditions.
Using the pet health information behaviour intervention model should make information prescriptions for pet guardians more effective
Authors: Solhjoo Niloofar
Published: August 2022

Background

Studies on information behaviour related to companion animal's (pet) health have been carried out in different contexts and there have been attempts to modify and idealize these information behaviours.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to apply the Pet Health Information Behaviour Intervention model in an empirical context and elaborate the theoretical contribution of the model to information behaviour research in the context of pet care and management.

Methods

All the variables of the proposed model were quantified and tested through case study research involving 20 participants. Each case consisted of a guardian who participated in the information intervention program with their cat(s) and/or dog(s) in a small animal hospital, with a follow‐up interview after 2 weeks.

Results

The information prescription helped both the experienced Internet searchers and the less health literate guardians. The pet guardians were particularly appreciative of the advice on evaluating and using online health information. The higher guardian‐pet bond, the more the participant used the tips to search online information. The information prescription helped the relationship with the veterinary professional through improved data gathering and perception of the professional‐guardian partnership.

Conclusion

The model will assist both information professionals and animal health providers to better design and evaluate information interventions that support pet welfare.
Colorimetric hydrogel indicators based on polyvinyl alcohol/sodium alginate for visual food spoilage monitoring
Authors: Tang Qiushi , Hu Jiwen , Li Shi , Lin Shudong , Tu Yuanyuan , Gui Xuefeng
Published: August 2022

A colorimetric pH‐sensitive hydrogel indicator integrated with the smartphone for real‐time and visual food spoilage monitoring was developed. Herein, the poly(vinyl alcohol)/sodium alginate (PVA/SA) hydrogel was used as the carriers for the pH‐sensitive mixed‐dye methyl red/bromothymol blue (MR/BB), which can be employed as an amine indicator. The functional hydrogel was prepared by a simple freezing/thawing process that mainly performed in PVA and calcium cross‐linking in SA. The optimal condition for the sensitivity of hydrogel towards ammonia and the structure of the hydrogel were investigated. The potential applications of the hydrogels in beef, fish, chicken and pork were evaluated under different storage conditions. Sigmoidal fitting results indicated that the RGB model with a smartphone can form a strong correlation with the total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N) values in common meat products. The hydrogel indicators with sensitive and stable properties have proven to be promising materials for use in food spoilage monitoring.
Effect of ultrasound on cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside and β‐lactoglobulin binding interaction and functional properties
Authors: Wang Lijie , Wang Xiaohan , Luo Feng , Li Yuefei
Published: August 2022

Ultrasound provides an approach for improving the conjugation efficiency of cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (C3G) and β‐lactoglobulin (βLG), thereby increasing cyanidin stability and imparting some characteristics to proteins. In the present study, the effects of ultrasound on C3G conjugation efficiency was investigated by exploring the binding mechanism and shifts in functional properties. Ultrasound enhanced conjugation efficiency by increasing binding affinity from 5.7 × 105 to 10.6 × 105 m−1, and binding number of C3G from two to three, as well as the maximum peak temperature of C3G from 84.7 to 88.4 °C in βLG–C3G complexes, implying improved C3G thermostability. Furthermore, C3G conjugation imparted antioxidant properties to the complexes, and altered the conformation of βLG, which enhances emulsifying ability and emulsification stability. Such changes further improved conjugation efficiency. The results of this study could facilitate the application of C3G as a natural additive in food products.
Chemical compositions, antioxidant activities and techno‐functionality of spent grain treated by autoclave treatment: evaluation of water and temperature levels
Authors: Naibaho Joncer , Bobak Łukasz , Pudło Anna , Wojdyło Aneta , Andayani Safira Noor , Pangestika Leonie Margaretha Widya , Korzeniowska Małgorzata , Yang Baoru
Published: August 2022

Autoclave heating (AH) has been applied to modify the dietary fibre composition of dried brewers' spent grain (BSG) flour, which required multiple drying processes. The current study aimed to investigate the influence of the thermal levels and water ratio on AH, as an alternative, in altering the chemical compositions, antioxidant properties, and functionality of undried fresh BSG. The results showed that AH converted the saturated fatty acids into polyunsaturated fatty acids. AH reduced ketones and furans regardless of the water ratio while the amounts of aldehydes, alcohols, alkenes, and fatty acids depended on the water ratio. The elimination and formation of several volatile compounds were identified due to the AH depending on the water ratio. The total flavan‐3‐ols, antioxidant activities, and water‐holding capacity of BSG were improved as an impact of thermal elevation and regardless of the water ratio. In conclusion, AH treatment on fresh, undried BSG showed a beneficial performance in improving the quality of BSG for further valorisation as a value‐added by‐product.
Effect of drying techniques on quality and sensory properties of tropical fruits
Authors: Petikirige Jasmine , Karim Azharul , Millar Graeme
Published: August 2022

Drying is a popular food preservation technology that reduces food waste and promotes food preservation and food security. Though drying reduces microbial growth and increases shelf life of fruits, it alters sensory properties both favourably and unfavourably depending on the nature of the drying process applied and significantly influences the final product quality. However, there is currently no review article on the impact of the drying process on the sensorial quality attributes of tropical fruits. This review attempts to describe the relative merits and challenges of some widely used advanced drying techniques with a particular focus on intermittent microwave convective drying (IMCD) techniques which offer high sensory properties with excellent drying efficiency. The paper aims to provide an insight into the effect of these drying techniques on the sensory qualities of tropical fruits to identify the best drying method for future food applications.
Changes in lipid compositions of krill oil emulsions during storage, a role of ultrasound treatment and the possible process of lipid migration
Authors: Wang Zhangtie , Zhao Jinjin , Liu Ruijie , Chang Ming , Wang Xingguo
Published: August 2022

The changes in lipid compositions of krill oil emulsions during storage were investigated, as well as the role of ultrasound treatment. Whey protein isolate (WPI) was used as wall materials to krill oil, which was treated with ultrasound. The effects of WPI concentration (from 0.2% to 10%), ultrasound power (from 10% to 80%) and treatment (at the same energy density with different power) were evaluated. Storage stability of different emulsions was characterised appearance, particle sizes, zeta potential, polydispersity index and microstructures. The lipid compositions and interactions were analysed to debate the changes of emulsions. The results indicated that ultrasound increased the stability of emulsions, enhanced the hydrophobic interactions between WPI and lipids and kept lipid composition distributions in each layer of emulsions. Furthermore, a possible mechanism of lipid migration in krill oil emulsions was put forward. The study will assist in the application and mechanism of krill oil emulsions treated with ultrasound.
Implications of diversity cues in recruitment and assessment materials: Reactions and performance
Authors: Golubovich Juliya , Ryan Ann Marie
Published: August 2022

Cues regarding organizational diversity in recruitment and assessment materials can serve as signals to infer how members of a social group are treated. However, theory on identity–contingency (diversity) cues provides little guidance as to how the interaction of multiple cues impacts performance on selection tools. In an experiment, racial diversity cues in employee testimonials and situational judgment test (SJT) items were manipulated in a simulated selection process to examine implications for individuals' performance and reactions. SJT diversity cues indirectly reduced SJT performance via lower attentiveness. Individuals also evaluated an SJT with diversity cues to be less related to the job than a similar, nondiverse version, whereas perceptions of the assessment's predictive validity and opportunity to perform on it were unaffected. Effects on assessment reactions did not vary as a function of participant race or the presence of diversity cues in employee testimonials. Individuals who watched testimonials with more diverse speakers were subsequently more attracted to the organization if the testimonials were followed by the SJT with more diverse representation in items. Implications for assessment design and recruitment are discussed.
Enhanced visualization of female squirting
Authors: Inoue Miyabi , Sekiguchi Yuki , Ninomiya Noriko , Kobayashi Tomoko , Araki Motoo
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Squirting is the involuntary expulsion of fluid from the female urethra following stimulation of the anterior vaginal wall before or during orgasm. The mechanism underlying squirting has not been established.

Purpose

To elucidate the mechanism of squirting.

Methods

The subjects in the current study were women who were able to squirt. They were not sex workers. A urethral catheter was inserted before sexual stimulation and the bladder was emptied. Then, a mixture of indigo carmine (10 ml) and saline (40 ml) was injected into the bladder. Sexual stimulation was provided to facilitate squirting, which was videotaped and verified. The secretions were collected in sterile cups, and prostate specific antigen (PSA) and glucose levels were measured.

Results

Five women (2 in the 30s, 2 in the 40s, and 1 in the 50s) participated in this study. All women were able to squirt; three squirted only with manual sexual stimulation and two with penetrative sexual stimulation. The discharged fluid was blue in all cases, confirming the bladder as the source. The fluid was PSA‐positive in four patients.

Conclusions

The main component of squirt fluid is urine, but may also contain fluid from Skene's glands (female prostate). This is the first report in which visualization of squirting was enhanced.
Prostate‐specific antigen level, biopsy grade group, and tumor‐capsular contact length on magnetic resonance imaging are independently associated with an extraprostatic extension
Authors: Washino Satoshi , Ito Koichi , Miyagawa Tomoaki
Published: August 2022

Objective

To define the clinicopathological and radiological factors independently associated with the existence of an extraprostatic extension in radical prostatectomy specimens.

Methods

A total of 202 patients who underwent robotic prostatectomy following biparametric magnetic resonance imaging were assessed. We evaluated the clinicopathological and magnetic resonance imaging variables. We performed receiver‐operating characteristic curve analyses to identify factors associated with extraprostatic extension. We engaged in multivariate analysis to identify factors independently associated with such extension.

Results

Extraprostatic extensions were apparent in the final prostatectomy specimens of 62 patients (31%). The areas under the curves of the prostate‐specific antigen level, the biopsy grade group, and the tumor‐capsular contact length on magnetic resonance imaging were 0.76, 0.71, and 0.70, respectively, in receiver‐operating characteristic analysis when used to predict extraprostatic extension; thus, higher than the areas under the curves of the other variables (0.61–0.68). The prostate‐specific antigen level (odds ratio 1.090, p = 0.004), the biopsy grade group (odds ratios 2.678 and 6.358, p = 0.017 and p < 0.001 for grade group 3–4 and 5), and the tumor‐capsular contact length (odds ratio 1.079, p = 0.001) were independently associated with extraprostatic extension. When the three factors were combined, the area under the receiver‐operator characteristic curve increased to 0.79.

Conclusions

The prostate‐specific antigen level, the biopsy grade group, and the tumor‐capsular contact length on magnetic resonance imaging were independently associated with extracapsular extension.
Efficacy of urethral reconstruction for urethral stricture associated with hypospadias surgery in adults
Authors: Horiguchi Akio , Asanuma Hiroshi , Shinchi Masayuki , Tabei Tadashi , Ojima Kenichiro , Hirano Yusuke , Takahashi Eiji , Asakuma Junichi , Kimura Fumihiro , Ito Keiichi , Azuma Ryuichi
Published: August 2022

Objectives

We report our experience with urethral reconstruction for hypospadias surgery‐related urethral stricture in terms of surgical and patient‐reported outcomes.

Methods

Twenty‐nine adult males who underwent urethral reconstruction for hypospadias surgery‐related urethral stricture between August 2008 and January 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Uroflowmetry and patient‐reported outcomes were evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months, and annually thereafter. Surgical success was defined as the absence of additional procedures. Patients were asked to rate their satisfaction with urethral reconstruction as “very satisfied”, “satisfied”, “unsatisfied”, or “very unsatisfied”.

Results

The median patient age at referral was 43 years. The median number of previously performed hypospadias surgeries was three, and 18 patients (62.8%) had been treated with repeated transurethral procedures. The median stricture length was 54 mm (interquartile range 36–81). Performed urethral reconstruction included staged urethroplasty in 22 (75.9%), one‐stage onlay augmentation in 3 (10.2%), and perineal urethrostomy in 4 (13.8%) cases. Urethral reconstruction was successful in 26 patients (89.7%) over a median postoperative period of 31 months. Patient‐reported outcomes were assessed in 25 (86.2%) patients. The mean maximum flow rate, international prostate symptom score total score, international prostate symptom score quality of life score, and EuroQol‐5 dimensions index significantly improved postoperatively. Twenty‐three patients (92%) were “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with the outcome of their urethral reconstruction.

Conclusions

Urethral reconstruction is a highly successful and patient‐satisfying treatment for hypospadias surgery‐related urethral stricture in adult patients. Perineal urethrostomy is a reasonable alternative for elderly patients and for patients with complicated hypospadias surgery‐related urethral strictures.
Extraction and characterization of cyclic lipopeptides with antifungal and antioxidant activities from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens
Authors: Ren Li , Yuan Ziqiang , Xie Tingyu , Wu Daren , Kang Qianjin , Li Jieming , Li Jian
Published: August 2022

Aims

This study aimed to isolate active substances from metabolites of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SJ100001 and examine their antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum (F. oxysporum) SJ300024 screened from the root–soil of cucumber wilt.

Methods and Results

An active substance, anti-SJ300024, was obtained from the fermentation broth of strain SJ100001 by reversed-phase silica gel and gel chromatography, and further got its chemical structure as cyclic lipopeptide Epichlicin through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry (MS). In vitro experiments showed that Epichlicin had a better inhibitory rate (67.46%) against the strain SJ300024 than the commercially available fungicide hymexazol (45.10%) at the same concentration. The MTT assays proved that Epichlicin was non-cytotoxic, besides it also had good free radical scavenging ability and total reducing ability.

Conclusions

Epichlicin isolated from strain SJ100001 can effectively control F. oxysporum SJ300024 screened from the root–soil of cucumber wilt.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Epichlicin may be used as an environmentally friendly and efficient biocontrol agent for controlling Fusarium wilt of cucumber and reducing crop losses. More importantly, the non-cytotoxicity of Epichlicin can avoid harm to consumers. Additionally, Epichlicin has broad application prospects in medicine due to its antioxidant properties.
Transcriptome reveals BCAAs biosynthesis pathway is influenced by lovastatin and can act as a potential control target in Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Yang Xinyu , Huang Qifeng , Xu Jitao , Gao Zhen , Jiang Xue , Wu Yuanhua , Ye Wenwu , Liang Yue
Published: August 2022

Aims

Lovastatin has been indicated to impair growth and development of Phytophthora sojae. Therefore, this study was performed to understand the inhibitory mechanism of lovastatin and investigate the metabolic pathway potentially served as a new control target for this plant pathogen.

Methods and Results

Whole transcriptome analysis of lovastatin-treated P. sojae was performed by RNA-sequencing. The results revealed that 84 genes were upregulated and 58 were downregulated with more than fourfold changes under treatment. Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes analysis indicated that the branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) biosynthesis pathway was abundantly enriched. All enzymes in the BCAAs biosynthesis pathway were identified in the P. sojae genome. Moreover, the study found that the herbicide flumetsulam targeting acetohydroxyacid synthase (AHAS) of the BCAAs biosynthesis pathway could effectively inhibit mycelial growth of P. sojae.

Conclusions

Lovastatin treatment significantly influences the BCAAs biosynthesis pathway in P. sojae. Moreover, the herbicide flumetsulam targets AHAS and inhibits growth of P. sojae.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The present study revealed that BCAAs biosynthesis pathway was influenced by lovastatin treatment and its key enzyme AHAS was identified as a potential new control target, which provides clues for exploring more oomycetes to control plant diseases caused by P. sojae.
Multivariate associations between behavioural dimensions and white matter across children and adolescents with and without attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Bu Xuan , Gao Yingxue , Liang Kaili , Bao Weijie , Chen Ying , Guo Lanting , Gong Qiyong , Lu Hanzhang , Caffo Brian , Mori Susumu , Huang Xiaoqi
Published: August 2022

Background

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder. Integrity of white matter microstructure plays a key role in the neural mechanism of ADHD presentations. However, the relationships between specific behavioural dimensions and white matter microstructure are less well known. This study aimed to identify associations between white matter and a broad set of clinical features across children and adolescent with and without ADHD using a data‐driven multivariate approach.

Method

We recruited a total of 130 children (62 controls and 68 ADHD) and employed regularized generalized canonical correlation analysis to characterize the associations between white matter and a comprehensive set of clinical measures covering three domains, including symptom, cognition and behaviour. We further applied linear discriminant analysis to integrate these associations to explore potential developmental effects.

Results

We delineated two brain–behaviour dimensional associations in each domain resulting a total of six multivariate patterns of white matter microstructural alterations linked to hyperactivity–impulsivity and mild affected; executive functions and working memory; externalizing behaviour and social withdrawal, respectively. Apart from executive function and externalizing behaviour sharing similar white matter patterns, all other dimensions linked to a specific pattern of white matter microstructural alterations. The multivariate dimensional association scores showed an overall increase and normalization with age in ADHD group while remained stable in controls.

Conclusions

We found multivariate neurobehavioral associations exist across ADHD and controls, which suggested that multiple white matter patterns underlie ADHD heterogeneity and provided neural bases for more precise diagnosis and individualized treatment.
Impaired pancreatic beta‐cell function after a single dose of oral iron: A before‐and‐after (pre–post) study
Authors: Venkatesan Padmanaban , Ramasamy Jagadish , Vanitha S. , Jacob Molly , Varghese Joe
Published: August 2022

Background

Although in vitro and animal studies have shown that iron loading in pancreatic beta cells impairs insulin secretion, no human studies have documented the acute effects of oral iron on beta‐cell insulin secretory capacity. In the present study, we determined beta‐cell insulin secretory capacity at baseline and after a single oral dose of iron (ferrous sulphate, 120 mg elemental iron) in healthy male individuals.

Methods

Fifteen healthy male volunteers underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to document baseline glucose tolerance and insulin secretion kinetics (baseline OGTT). One week later, the same subjects underwent a second OGTT, 2 h after an oral dose of ferrous sulphate (120 mg of elemental iron) (post‐iron OGTT). Changes in disposition index, insulin secretion kinetics, glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, insulin clearance and iron‐related parameters in serum were determined.

Results

Compared to baseline OGTT, the areas under the curve (AUC) for serum iron and transferrin saturation increased by 125% and 118%, respectively, in the post‐iron OGTT. The disposition index decreased by 20% (p = 0.009) and the AUC for glucose concentrations increased by 5.7% (p < 0.001) during the post‐iron OGTT. The insulin secretion rate was marginally lower during the first hour (−3.5%, p = 0.63), but became significantly higher during the second hour (22%, p = 0.005) of the post‐iron OGTT. Insulin resistance and insulin clearance rate were not affected by iron intake.

Conclusions

The decrease in disposition index and glucose tolerance observed after the oral dose of iron points to an acute iron‐induced impairment in pancreatic beta‐cell insulin secretory capacity.
Associations of muscle volume of individual human plantar intrinsic foot muscles with morphological profiles of the foot
Authors: Kusagawa Yuki , Kurihara Toshiyuki , Maeo Sumiaki , Sugiyama Takashi , Kanehisa Hiroaki , Isaka Tadao
Published: August 2022

Human plantar intrinsic foot muscles consist of 10 muscles that originate and insert within the sole of the foot. It is known that the anatomical cross‐sectional area (ACSA) and muscle thickness of two plantar intrinsic foot muscles, the flexor hallucis brevis (FHB) and abductor hallucis (ABH), associate with morphological parameters of the foot, such as total and truncated foot length and navicular height. However, it is unclear how the size for each of the plantar intrinsic foot muscles associates with various morphological profiles of the foot. This study aimed to elucidate this subject. By using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), serial images of the right foot were obtained in 13 young adult men without foot deformities. From the obtained MR images, ACSA for each of the individual plantar intrinsic foot muscles was analyzed along the foot length, and then its muscle volume (MV) was calculated. The analyzed muscles were the abductor digiti minimi (ABDM), ABH, adductor hallucis oblique head (ADDH‐OH), adductor hallucis transverse head (ADDH‐TH), flexor digitorum brevis (FDB), FHB, and quadratus plantae (QP). Furthermore, MV of the whole plantar intrinsic foot muscle (WHOLE) was defined as the total MVs of all the analyzed muscles. As morphological parameters, total foot length, truncated foot length, forefoot width, ball circumference, instep circumference, navicular height, great toe eversion angle, and little toe inversion angle were measured using a laser three‐dimensional foot scanner in standing and sitting conditions. In addition, navicular drop (ND) and normalized truncated navicular height (NTNH) were also calculated as medial longitudinal arch (MLA) height indices. The MV of WHOLE was significantly associated with the forefoot width, ball circumference, and instep circumference (r = 0.647–0.711, p = 0.006–0.013). Positive correlations were found between the forefoot width and MV of FHB, FDB, and QP (r = 0.564–0.653, p = 0.015–0.045), between the ball circumference and MV of QP (r = 0.559, p = 0.047), between the instep circumference and MV of FHB (r = 0.609, p = 0.027), and between the little toe inversion angle and MV of QP (r = 0.570, p = 0.042). The MVs of ABH, ABDM, and ADDH‐OH were not significantly correlated with any morphological parameters of the foot. Similarly, no significant correlations were found between MV of each muscle and either of the MLA height indices (ND and NTNH). Thus, the current results indicate that forefoot width and circumferential parameters (instep and ball circumference), not MLA height, associate with the size of the whole plantar intrinsic foot muscles, especially those specialized in toe flexion (FHB, FDB, and QP).
Cultivating Compassion for Self and Others: A School‐Based Pilot Study for Peer‐Nominated Caring Adolescents
Authors: Colaianne Blake A. , Lavelle Brooke D. , Small Meg L. , Roeser Robert W.
Published: August 2022

Many have called for school‐based student programs that teach skills related to self‐care and caring for others. Here, such a program for peer‐nominated adolescents was developed and piloted virtually at one high school during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Results of a longitudinal, quasi‐experimental evaluation of the program showed high‐quality program implementation and promising program impacts. Effect sizes indicated moderate to large program impacts on improvements in adolescents' self‐compassion, sense of interdependence, and perspective‐taking, and female adolescents' interoceptive awareness, compared to controls. No group differences in compassion for others were found. The need for more research on programs that help adolescents balance compassion for the self and for others is discussed.
Risk pooling and solvency regulation: A policyholder's perspective
Authors: Huggenberger Markus , Albrecht Peter
Published: August 2022

We investigate the benefits of risk pooling for the policyholders of stock insurance companies under different solvency standards. Using second‐degree stochastic dominance, we document that the utility of risk‐averse policyholders is increasing in the pool size if the equity capital is proportional to the premiums written. To the contrary, an increase in the pool size can reduce the policyholders' utility if the equity capital is determined using the Value‐at‐Risk (VaR). We show that pooling with a larger number of risks is also beneficial for all risk‐averse policyholders under a VaR‐based regulation if the pool satisfies an excess tail risk restriction. Our analysis provides new insights for the design of solvency standards and reveals a potential disadvantage of risk‐based capital requirements for policyholders.
Assessment of neurological sequelae and new‐onset symptoms in the long‐term follow‐up of paediatric Guillain–Barre syndrome: A longitudinal study from India
Authors: Sugumar Kiruthiga , Chidambaram Aakash C , Gunasekaran Dhandapany
Published: August 2022

Background

Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS) is the commonest cause of acute flaccid paralysis in children. There is a paucity of studies that assess the long‐term outcome of paediatric GBS.

Aim

To assess the frequency of neurological sequelae and the new‐onset symptoms in the long‐term follow‐up of paediatric GBS and to identify the risk factors associated with them.

Methods

This longitudinal study involved 78 children with GBS treated between January 2015 and 2021. The parents of those children were contacted to visit the hospital for a detailed neurological examination and to look for new‐onset symptoms after the initial treatment for GBS.

Results

Of the 78 children, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy, acute motor axonal neuropathy, and acute motor‐sensory axonal neuropathy variants were observed in 30 (38.5%), 27 (34.6%) and 11 (14.1%) children, respectively. The median (interquartile range (IQR)) duration of follow‐up was 3 (2, 4.5) years. The median (IQR) time to independent ambulation was 30 (13.5, 105) days. The neurological sequelae were found in 22 (28.2%) children. GBS disability score at admission (odds ratio (OR) = 4.6; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1–19.8;P = 0.04) and axonal variant of GBS (OR = 4.1; 95% CI: 1.5–20.8;P = 0.04) were found to be independent predictors of neurologic sequelae. A total of 28 children experienced new‐onset symptoms after GBS, with frequent falls while running and fatigue being the predominant symptoms. Those children with demyelinating variant achieved independent ambulation earlier than the axonal group on survival analysis (log‐rankPvalue = 0.04).

Conclusion

The presence of neurological sequelae and new‐onset symptoms were found in 28.2 and 35% of the GBS children, respectively. High GBS disability score at admission and axonal variant of GBS were independent predictors of neurological sequelae. Knowledge about these would help in devising a plan for rehabilitation.
Geographical indications in India: A case of Handicraft industry in Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Chaudhary Meghna , Agarwal Bhawna , Bhatia Meena
Published: August 2022

The Handicraft industry plays a significant and pivotal role in the country's economy. It employs a significant number of artisans in rural and semiurban areas and generates significant foreign exchange for the country, all while preserving the cultural heritage. In the Indian context, geographical indication (GI) has recently emerged as a substantial form of intellectual property rights. It is a powerful instrument for safeguarding and rewarding not only the commercial potential of exclusive products but also the traditional knowledge that accompanies them. GI has the potential to revitalize the handicraft sector, but if it is merely seen as intellectual property, the industry's interests are jeopardized. Handicraft products account for over 55% of all GI‐registered products in India, followed by agricultural products (31%). The predicament of the Artisans has deteriorated over time. One of several main reasons for the deterioration of Uttar Pradesh's handicraft industry is that artisans in the region still do not fully understand GI. The present study gives an overview of the current status of registered GIs in Uttar Pradesh. More importantly, this will also highlight the major challenges of GI implementation in the traditional handicraft sector in Uttar Pradesh.
Phenotypic matching by spot pattern potentially mediates female giraffe social associations
Authors: Morandi K. , Lindholm A. K. , Lee D. E. , Bond M. L.
Published: August 2022

Animal color pattern is a phenotypic trait that may mediate assortative mixing (also known as homophily), whereby similar looking individuals have stronger social associations. Masai giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) coat spot patterns show high variation and some spot traits appear to be heritable. Giraffes also have high visual acuity, which may facilitate intraspecific communication and recognition based on spot patterns. Giraffe groupings are dynamic, merging and splitting throughout the day, but females form long‐term associations. We predicted that adult female giraffes show stronger associations with other females that have similar spot pattern traits. We quantified the spot pattern characteristics of 399 adult female Masai giraffes and determined the pattern similarity among pairs (dyads) in their social network. We then tested for an association between coat pattern similarity (spot size, shape, and orientation) and dyadic association strength, and quantified assortative mixing. The strength of social associations was positively correlated with similarity in spot shape. Our results are compatible with assortativity by coat patterns that are similar between mother and offspring, potentially reflecting an effect of relatedness on both pattern similarity and female social associations. These results offer evidence that spot pattern could function as a visual cue for intraspecific communication and kin or individual recognition in a fission‐fusion species.
Dynamic changes of bacteria communities in Moutai-flavour Daqu during storage analysed by next generation sequencing
Authors: Xi X. , Yang F. , Chen L. , Lu J. , Wang L.
Published: August 2022

The quality of Moutai-flavour Baijiu is highly dependent on Moutai-flavour Daqu (MTDQ), which needs to be stored for 6 months before using. It brings abundant bacterium, which can metabolize various enzymes and favour compounds. But the reasonable storage time of MTDQ prepared in different seasons is still uncertain. To this end, the study revealed a detailed bacterial profile of storage MTDQ prepared in three different seasons (specifically, they were stored start from spring, summer and autumn) by using high-throughput sequencing approach (next generation sequencing). Results showed that major phyla of storage MTDQ were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria. The advantages of Firmicutes were Thermoactinomyces and Bacillaceae. Significant differences in bacterial community structures of MTDQ from different seasons and storage time were observed. Compared with summer and autumn MTDQ, the decrease of Thermoactinomyces and increase of Desmospora in spring MTDQ were the main differences and bacterial community structures of summer and autumn MTDQ were more similar. The variation trends of the bacteria community indicated that the effective time of storage period was appropriately 6 months for spring MTDQ, 2 months for summer MTDQ and more than 6 months for autumn MTDQ. These results showed that the length of storage time was associated with the season and it is reasonable to adjust the storage time of MTDQ with the season.
Biodeterioration of low-density polyethylene by mangrove-associated endolichenic fungi and their enzymatic regimes
Authors: Perera T.W.N.K. , Weerasinghe W.R.H. , Attanayake R.N. , Paranagama P.A.
Published: August 2022

Fungal involvement in the biodeterioration of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) has received great attention in recent years. Among diverse groups of fungi, endolichenic fungi (ELF) are adapted to thrive in resource-limited conditions. The present study was designed to investigate the potential of mangrove-associated ELF, in the biodeterioration of LDPE and to quantify key-depolymerizing enzymes. A total of 31 ELF species, isolated from 22 lichens of mangrove ecosystems in Negombo lagoon, Sri Lanka were identified using DNA barcoding techniques. ELF were inoculated into a mineral salt medium, containing LDPE strips and incubated at 28 ± 2°C, for 21 days, under laboratory conditions. After incubation, biodeterioration was monitored based on percent reductions in weights and tensile properties, increments in the degree of water absorption, changes in peaks of infrared spectra and surface erosions using scanning electron microscopy. Out of 31 species, Chaetomium globosum, Daldinia eschscholtzii, Neofusicoccum occulatum, Phanerochaete chrysosporium, Schizophyllum commune and Xylaria feejeensis showed significant changes. Production of depolymerizing enzymes by these species was assayed qualitatively using plate-based methods and quantitatively by mass-level enzyme production. Among them, Phanerochaete chrysosporium showed the highest enzyme activities as (9·69 ± 0·04) × 10−3, (1·96 ± 0·01) × 10−3, (5·73 ± 0·03) × 10−3, (0·88 ± 0·01), (0·64 ± 0·06), (1·43 ± 0·01) U ml−1 for laccase, lignin peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, amylase, lipase and esterase, respectively.
The associations between women's empowerment measures, child growth and dietary diversity: Findings from an analysis of demographic and health surveys of seven countries in Eastern Africa
Authors: Komakech Joel J. , Walters Christine N. , Rakotomanana Hasina , Hildebrand Deana A. , Stoecker Barbara J.
Published: August 2022

Evidence on the efficacy of women's empowerment to improve child growth and minimum dietary diversity (MDD) in the Eastern Africa (EA) region is limited. This cross‐sectional study used recent Demographic and Health Survey data of mother–child dyads from seven countries in EA to examine the associations between women's empowerment measures, child growth and MDD. Length‐for‐age z‐scores, weight‐for‐length z‐scores and weight‐for‐age z‐scores were used to categorize growth indicators of 6–23 months old children. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify significant associations. Among all countries, 32%–59% of children experienced growth failure. Children meeting MDD were 18%–45%. Women having self‐esteem were associated with lower odds of stunting (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.62 in Rwanda), wasting (AOR = 0.38 in Uganda), underweight (AORs = 0.60 and 0.57 in Tanzania and Uganda, respectively) and growth failure (AOR = 0.64 in Rwanda). Having health decision control in Burundi was associated with lower odds of stunting (AOR = 0.49) and child growth failure (AOR = 0.52) and higher odds of meeting MDD (AOR = 2.50). Having Legal empowerment among women increased the odds of stunting (AOR = 1.79 in Burundi), underweight (AOR = 1.77 in Uganda) and growth failure (AOR = 1.87 in Burundi). Economic empowerment showed mixed associations with child growth and MDD among some countries. Women's self‐esteem and health decision control were associated with better child growth and MDD for some countries in EA. Nutrition‐sensitive interventions aimed at improving child growth and MDD should consider local contexts when addressing women's empowerment.
Nitrogen fertilizer enhances vegetation establishment of a high‐altitude machine‐graded ski slope
Authors: Barberis Davide , Lombardi Giampiero , Ravetto Enri Simone , Pittarello Marco , Viglietti Davide , Freppaz Michele , Lonati Michele
Published: August 2022

Machine grading is frequently required to prepare the terrain when building high‐altitude ski slopes in the Alps. However, this kind of disturbance alters the natural environment, destroying the vegetation and hampering its reestablishment. Thus, specific restoration plans are necessary to encourage the recovery of vegetation, which is already affected by different natural constraints in this harsh environment. One of the main critical factors affecting plant growth in high‐altitude areas is the lack of available nitrogen (N) in the soil. In this context, the addition of a slow‐release N fertilizer was carried out in an experimental revegetated ski slope between 2,800 and 2,900 m above sea level in the western Italian Alps. Both vegetation and soil were monitored during a 5‐year period in order to test the effectiveness of N addition on the restoration process. Even if effects on soil carbon and N contents were negligible, vegetation was remarkably affected by the fertilization, since the total vegetation cover and the species richness significantly increased. Against the expectations, there was a remarkable increase in spontaneous forbs, rather than in most of the sown graminoids, which slightly varied during the experimental period. Actually, graminoids responded in different ways, mostly increasing (likewise forbs), but the slight decrease of the dominant Festuca nigrescens (Chewing's Fescue) masked their spread. This study confirms the noteworthy role of N in high‐altitude alpine soils and consequently its importance to improve the restoration process of degraded ecosystems.
China's corporate credit reporting system: A comparison with the United States and Germany
Authors: Krause Theresa , Chen Mo , Wassermann Lena , Fischer Doris , Grossklags Jens
Published: August 2022

Corporate credit reporting (CCR), which aims at increasing trust in corporates, constitutes an intriguing, yet understudied set of regulatory institutions as it is both a regulatory object and subject at the same time. Differences in national CCR systems pose challenges for multinational companies and have increasingly become a subject of international conflicts on regulatory standards. In this context, the case of China deserves special attention since the country pursues both institutional divergence and convergence with international examples. Hence, the characterization of China's regulatory regime remains difficult. By comparing the institutional context of CCR in China to those in the United States and Germany, this paper sheds light on a specific aspect of China's complex regulatory regime. At the same time, it provides insights into the Chinese manifestation of CCR, which are important for the international business community.