bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of ultrasonic and ozone pretreatment on the structural and functional properties of soluble dietary fiber from lemon peel
Authors: Zhang Dali , Jiang Bing , Luo Yaohua , Fu Xincheng , Kong Hui , Shan Yang , Ding Shenghua
Published: October 2021

In this study, the effects of ultrasonic (US), ozone (O3), or ozone‐ultrasonic (O3‐US) pretreatments on the structural and functional properties of soluble dietary fibers (SDFs) obtained from lemon peel were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy observation showed that, US‐SDF, O3‐SDF, and O3‐US‐SDF showed more looser surface and porous characterization, compared to the lemon peel SDF without treatment (untreated‐SDF). Pretreatment led to a significant increases of SDFs yield, which increased by 16.70%, 85.44%, and 92.36% for US‐SDF, O3‐SDF, and O3‐US‐SDF, compared to untreated group, respectively. X‐ray diffraction results showed that the crystal structure of the pretreated‐SDFs was disrupted and possessed lower crystallinity. TGA analysis showed that pretreated‐SDFs exhibited lower thermal stability. All three pretreatments led to a redistribution of monosaccharides in SDFs. In addition, functional properties, including water swelling capacity (WSC), water‐holding capacity (WHC), oil holding capacity (OHC), and binding capacity of SDF for heavy metals ions (Pb, Cd, and Cu), were enhanced by the three different pretreatment methods. Especially, O3‐SDF showed the highest hydration ability. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that untreated‐SDF and pretreated‐SDFs were effectively distinguished. In summary, our study suggested that the O3 pretreatment could be used as the ideal pretreatment method for lemon peel SDF, and O3‐SDF has the greatest potential to be applied as functional ingredients in food products.

Practical Applications

Ultrasonic (US) treatment is one of the green nonthermal technologies, it has been widely used to assist in the extraction of dietary fiber. Ozone (O3) is commonly used in agricultural waste disposal, while O3 treatment is still in the blank stage in the field of assisting the extraction of dietary fiber, and has great potential for development. In this experiment, the effects of US and O3 pretreatment on the structural and functional properties of SDFs from lemon peel were studied. The results showed that pretreated‐SDFs existed different structural and functional properties compare with the untreated‐SDF. And O3 pretreatment could be used as the ideal pretreatment method for lemon peel SDF.
Effect of age on treatment outcomes in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: A systematic review
Authors: Laurent Gwen , Vereeck Luc , Verbecque Evi , Herssens Nolan , Casters Laura , Spildooren Joke
Published: October 2021

Background

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) can lead to an increased fall risk in older adults. Therefore, we examined the influence of age on the effectiveness of canalith‐repositioning procedures (CRPs) for the treatment of BPPV.

Methods

Pubmed, Web of Science, and the bibliographies of selected articles were searched for studies conducted before September 2020 that examined the effectiveness of treatments for BPPV in various age groups. Meta‐analyses were performed to compare treatment effectiveness and recurrence rates for younger and older adults. Odds ratios were calculated in a random‐effects model. Mean differences were calculated using a fixed‐effects model. A significance level of p < 0.05 (95% confidence interval) was set. The risk of bias and the methodological quality of all included articles were examined.

Results

Forty‐five studies were retrieved after full‐text screening, of which 29 studies were included for a qualitative review. The remaining 16 studies were eligible for inclusion in the meta‐analysis (3267 participants with BPPV). The success rate of a single CRP was higher in the younger group (72.5% vs. 67%, p < 0.001). An average of 1.4 and 1.5 CRPs was needed for complete recovery in the younger and older groups, respectively (p = 0.02). However, global treatment success did not differ between these groups (97.5% vs. 94.6%, p = 0.41). The recurrence rate was higher in the older population (23.2% vs. 18.6%, p = 0.007).

Conclusions

Although more CRPs are needed, the rate of complete recovery in older adults is similar to that observed in younger adults.
Using systemic interventions to reduce intimate partner violence or child maltreatment: A systematic review of publications between 2010 and 2019
Authors: Stith Sandra M. , Topham Glade L. , Spencer Chelsea , Jones Benjamin , Coburn Katelyn , Kelly Lorin , Langston Zachary
Published: October 2021

This systematic review seeks to understand the effectiveness of systemic interventions to reduce Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) or child maltreatment published between January 2010 and December 2019. We found nine studies reviewing systemic interventions for IPV and 12 studies reviewing systemic interventions for child maltreatment. In our discussion, we added relevant articles published before 2010 to determine the overall state of the evidence for these interventions. We determined that parent training programs with in vivo coaching components for child maltreatment meet the criteria for well‐established interventions. Relationship education approaches are probably efficacious. Parent education and family therapy programs to reduce child maltreatment, and cognitive behavioral couples treatment to reduce IPV are possibly efficacious interventions. Programs based on “naturalistic” couples therapy for IPV are experimental interventions. This review also highlights limitations in this research in addressing the needs of marginalized couples and families.
The anatomy and variation of the coracoid attachment of the subclavius muscle in humans
Authors: Crepaz‐Eger Ulrich , Lambert Simon , Hörmann Romed , Knierzinger Dominik , Brenner Erich , Hengg Clemens
Published: October 2021

The functions of the subclavius muscle (SM) are described as stabilization of the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) and resisting elevation of the lateral end of the clavicle. During systematic cadaveric dissections, we observed additional fibrous structures, previously described as variants of the anatomy, extending from the SM and inserting into the coracoid process (CP). Due to the high incidence of these structures in our dissections, we hypothesized that the attachment at the CP is more common than appreciated and that, as a corollary, the function of the SM was (or has been) more complex than simply depressing the clavicle and generating stability at the SCJ. For our investigation, fifty‐two upper extremities of 26 human cadavers were dissected. The SM was demonstrated from costal to clavicular attachment. We documented additional fibrous structures apparently derived from the SM inserting into the CP. Measurements of the length of the SM, the length of its attachment, and the length of the clavicle were taken in situ, with the specimens supine and the upper extremity in the anatomical position. Variations in the anatomy of the SM and its coracoidal attachment were recorded, and potential correlations were investigated. For documentation purposes photographs and video sequences of passive motion of the shoulder girdle of the specimens were taken. In 49 of the 52 specimens we found additional fibrous structures passing from the SM to the CP. We differentiated three types: (1) a strong cord‐like structure; (2) a small or thin cord‐like structure or structures; and (3) a planar twisted sheet‐like structure. The SM and its extension to the CP appears to contribute to a ‘functional scapular suspension system’ together with the other muscles enveloped by the clavipectoral fascia (pectoralis minor, coracobrachialis and the short head of the biceps brachii). This system assists in the control of the position of the scapula in relation to the thorax, particularly in elevated positions of the upper extremity. We speculate that the differentiation of the fibrous structure depends on the functional demands of the individual.

Level of Evidence: Basic science study.
The coronavirus pandemic: A window of opportunity for sustainable consumption or a time of turning away?
Authors: Hüttel Alexandra , Balderjahn Ingo
Published: October 2021

Abstract

As a means to preserve present and future generations' living conditions, sustainable consumption presents a route to the enhanced well‐being of individuals. However, the occurrence of the COVID‐19 pandemic raises the question of whether society is going to continue down a path of increased awareness of sustainable consumption or whether the pandemic will move people to focus more on themselves. Based on data gathered before and near the end of the first pandemic lockdown in Germany in spring 2020, this research demonstrates that ecological, social, and voluntary simplicity consciousness deteriorated in the minds of sustainability‐conscious consumers, with notable impacts on their willingness to spend sustainably and their shopping affinity. Furthermore, we identify segments that show particular vulnerability to the lockdown by reacting with a decrease in their ecological consumption consciousness. This study concludes with a discussion of the pandemic's implications for the spread of sustainable consumption styles and human well‐being.
Efficacy and Safety of tranexamic acid versus vitamin c after microneedling in treatment of melasma: Clinical and Dermoscopic study
Authors: El Attar Yasmina , Doghaim Noha , El Far Nashwa , El hedody Samar , Hawwam Soha Abdalla
Published: October 2021

Background

Melasma is a common acquired symmetrically distributed hyperpigmented macules of sun‐exposed skin. Skin microneedling acts as a transdermal delivery system that facilitates the penetration of lightening agents to deeper layers of skin.

Objective

Clinical and dermoscopic evaluation of the efficacy and safety of topical tranexamic acid versus topical vitamin C after microneedling for melasma treatment.

Patients and Methods

Twenty patients with facial melasma were enrolled in a split‐face prospective, randomized uncontrolled study. The right side of the face was treated with topical tranexamic acid after dermapen microneedling, while the left side of the face was treated with topical vitamin C after dermapen microneedling. Sessions were done every 2 weeks for 6 sessions. The Hemi‐MASI score and dermoscopic examination before and after treatment were done.

Results

Hemi‐MASI score was reduced after treatment on both sides of the face, besides improvement of the pigmented lesions showed by dermoscopy on both sides and improvement of the vascular component on the tranexamic acid treated side.

Conclusion

Topical tranexamic acid or vitamin C application after dermapen microneedling was an effective and safe technique in melasma treatment with minimal side effects, and vascular component improvement by tranexamic acid.
Utility of indocyanine green as a single tracer for sentinel node biopsy in endometrial cancer
Authors: Cabezas Palacios María Nieves , García Pineda Virginia , Gracia Segovia Myriam , Diestro Tejeda María Dolores , Hernández Gutiérrez Alicia , Zapardiel Gutiérrez Ignacio
Published: October 2021

Aim

Our study aims to investigate the safety and effectiveness of sentinel lymph node biopsy using indocyanine green (ICG) for the surgical staging of early‐stage endometrial cancer in comparison to technetium‐99 m use.

Methods

We conducted an observational retrospective study with patients diagnosed of endometrial cancer and FIGO stages I‐II. All participants were injected technetium‐99m the day prior to the surgery and underwent lymphoscintigraphy along with single‐photon emission computed tomography. In addition, all patients were administered intraoperatively ICG injection to detect sentinel lymph node biopsy. The surgical staging was then completed according to the European Society for Medical Oncology preoperative risk category. Data obtained from the analysis of technetium‐99m detection was compared to ICG detection.

Results

A total of 53 women with endometrial cancer were included in the study, 49 (92.5%) of them showed drainage preoperatively in the single‐photon emission computed tomography and/or lymphoscintigraphy. The intraoperative bilateral detection rate for technetium‐99 m was 26 (49.1%) patients compared to 40 (75.5%) patients with ICG (p = 0.013). We observed a 42.5% increase in the mean number of lymph nodes retrieved by ICG compared to technetium‐99m (2.85 vs 2,0 nodes; p = 0.002). We intraoperatively identified 164 lymph nodes, 104 (63.4%) located in both obturator areas and external iliac vessels.

Conclusion

The use of ICG for the performance of sentinel node biopsy in patients with endometrial cancer seems safe and could be superior to technetium‐99 m, since it offers a higher bilateral detection rate and nodal retrieval, resulting in the possibility to perform safely less full staging lymphadenectomies.
Fusarium temperatum shows a hemibiotrophic infection process and differential pathogenicity over different maize breeds from Mexico
Authors: Robles‐Barrios Fabiola , Ramírez‐Granillo Adrián , Medina‐Canales María Gabriela , Gómez‐Lim Miguel , Loske Achaim M. , Rodríguez‐Tovar Aída V. , Pérez Néstor Octavio
Published: October 2021

The genus Fusarium contains several species that cause diseases, such as drowning and wilting, in cultivable plants. Fusarium temperatum has been included in the Giberella fujikuroi complex and has been reported as a devastating pathogen for maize in Asia, Europe and South America. In Mexico, maize is one of the most important crops, so we consider it of great importance to describe the infection process of F. temperatum on maize plantlets and the susceptibility of several breeds of maize. We use in vivo assays to determine the infectivity of 6 maize breeds from Mexico. The most resistant breed was Pepitilla with less than 10 percent of damage, while Harinoso de 8, Tuxpeño and Tepecintle showed moderate resistance, while Reventador and Zapata 2 showed the most extensive damage. Because of its susceptibility, Zapata 2 was used to follow the infection process of F. temperatum. To follow the fungus in the infected roots we use a transformed strain that expresses GFPs. We found that the fungus directly penetrates the root tissue without forming an appressorium. We were able to establish a hemibiotrophic infection pattern for F. temperatum (biotrophic stage: 5–10 dpi; transition stage: 15 dpi; necrotrophic stage: 20 dpi). Our results described that F. temperatum presents a hemibiotropic infection pattern and suggests the presence of maize breeds in Mexico that have natural resistance to F. temperatum.
Whole‐Class Co‐Construction in a High School Spanish Classroom: A Conversation Analytic Perspective
Authors: Wagner Santoi , Park Innhwa
Published: October 2021

This study demonstrates how conversation analysis can illuminate the interactional practices through which the Present‐Attention‐Co‐construction‐Extension (PACE) approach to grammar instruction, which involves a guided, inductive co‐construction of grammar rules with learners, is realized in the classroom. The data consist of three whole‐class Co‐construction discussions that occurred in three high school Spanish lessons on the pronoun se in non‐agentive constructions. We trace how the discussion unfolded and find that the key locus for the Co‐construction process was the work done by the teacher in the third turns of IRE sequences, and in particular, the withholding of explicit teacher assessment. We examine how the students treated and responded to such teacher third turns and how these sequences exhibited various interactional outcomes, such as a cyclical pattern of discourse, and misalignment of teacher and student focus. We consider the implications for a guided induction approach.
Whole‐genome resequencing confirms reproductive isolation between sympatric demes of brown trout (Salmo trutta) detected with allozymes
Authors: Saha Atal , Andersson Anastasia , Kurland Sara , Keehnen Naomi L. P. , Kutschera Verena E. , Hössjer Ola , Ekman Diana , Karlsson Sten , Kardos Marty , Ståhl Gunnar , Allendorf Fred W. , Ryman Nils , Laikre Linda
Published: October 2021

The sympatric existence of genetically distinguishable populations of the same species remains a puzzle in ecology. Coexisting salmonid fish populations are known from over 100 freshwater lakes. Most studies of sympatric populations have used limited numbers of genetic markers making it unclear if genetic divergence involves certain parts of the genome. We returned to the first reported case of salmonid sympatry, initially detected through contrasting homozygosity at a single allozyme locus (coding for lactate dehydrogenase A) in brown trout in the small Lakes Bunnersjöarna, Sweden. First, we verified the existence of the two coexisting demes using a 96‐SNP fluidigm array. We then applied whole‐genome resequencing of pooled DNA to explore genome‐wide diversity within and between these demes; nucleotide diversity was higher in deme I than in deme II. Strong genetic divergence is observed with genome‐wide FST ≈ 0.2. Compared with data from populations of similar small lakes, this divergence is of similar magnitude as that between reproductively isolated populations. Individual whole‐genome resequencing of two individuals per deme suggests higher inbreeding in deme II versus deme I, indicating different degree of isolation. We located two gene‐copies for LDH‐A and found divergence between demes in a regulatory section of one of these genes. However, we did not find a perfect fit between the sequence data and previous allozyme results, and this will require further research. Our data demonstrates genome‐wide divergence governed mostly by genetic drift but also by diversifying selection in coexisting populations. This type of hidden biodiversity needs consideration in conservation management.
A deterministic algorithm for nonlinear, fatigue‐based structural health monitoring
Authors: Pavlou Dimitrios
Published: October 2021

The irregularity of peak and valley stress values of loading histories is the main impediment for accurate fatigue‐based structural health monitoring. Since the available fatigue material data (e.g., S‐N curves) have been derived by cyclic loading tests, and the existing damage accumulation models can be implemented on structures under cyclic loading, cycle‐counting algorithms for the transformation of a spectrum loading into an equivalent cyclic one are necessary for deterministic fatigue damage estimation and life prediction. The existing four cycle‐counting algorithms have an inherent disadvantage; the sequence of the derived cycles is unknown, and the loading sequence effect on the fatigue damage estimation and life prediction cannot be accounted for (linear damage summation). The present work proposes a new damage estimation algorithm containing two modules: a new cycle‐counting algorithm and a new damage summation algorithm. Unlike the existing methods, the proposed algorithm takes into account the loading sequence effect and has a solid physical base because it simulates the nonlinear damage accumulation with a multi‐linear damage summation procedure. With the aid of a new concept of inserting fictitious loading cycles in the irregular spectrum, the proposed cycle counting module counts loading cycles that correspond to loading loops with an algorithm that is easily applicable in engineering practice. According to the author's knowledge, nonlinear damage accumulation estimation in structures under an irregular loading spectrum is carried out for the first time. The effect of the loading sequence to high‐low two‐stage random loading, low‐high two‐stage random loading, decreasing amplitude multi‐stage random loading, increasing amplitude multi‐stage random loading, and alternating amplitude random loading is examined and discussed.
Frege's Critical Arguments for Axioms
Authors: Hutchinson Jim
Published: October 2021

Why does Frege claim that logical axioms are ‘self‐evident,’ to be recognized as true ‘independently of other truths,’ and then offer arguments for those axioms? I argue that he thinks the arguments provide us with the justification that we need for accepting the axioms and that this is compatible with his remarks about self‐evidence. This compatibility depends on philosophical considerations connected with the ‘critical method’: an interesting approach to the justification of axioms endorsed by leading philosophers at the time.
Identification of quality indicators of public health nursing practice: “modified Delphi” approach
Authors: Giltenane Martina , Sheridan Ann , Kroll Thilo , Frazer Kate
Published: October 2021

Objective

Identify process indicators to measure public health nursing practice during first postnatal visits in Ireland.

Design

Using a RAND/UCLA appropriateness‐ “modified Delphi” method, a two‐round rating and ranking process was completed in 2016. Fifty‐nine statements were reviewed for consensus and priority ranking.

Sample

The sample comprised a panel of 21 national and international experts.

Results

Fifty‐nine indicators were identified and subsequently reduced across two rounds of consensus testing. Fifty‐six indicators achieved consensus and priority ranking identified 13 indicators to measure care for mothers and 15 indicators to measure care for newborns resulting in 28 process indicators to enable Public Health Nurses (PHNs) to measure care during the first postnatal visit.

Conclusions

Measurement of care using quality indicators plays an integral role in quality improvement. Developing quality indicators is important in improving care outcomes. This two round “modified Delphi” study combined with literature and previous qualitative findings identified process indicators to measure public health nursing practice at first postnatal visits and enables benchmarking. Developing quality indicators for public health nursing practice using a “modified Delphi” technique has enabled a platform to provide consensus amongst a panel of experts and identified key processes of care by PHNs and mothers.
The impact of offshoring on technical change: Evidence from Swedish manufacturing firms
Authors: Baum Christopher F. , Lööf Hans , Stephan Andreas , Viklund‐Ros Ingrid
Published: October 2021

This paper examines the link between offshoring and technical change measured by patent and total factor productivity in order to sort out the causality. It applies instrumental variable and matching approaches on a panel of more than 7000 Swedish manufacturing firms over the period 2001–2014, and identify offshoring‐related intermediate imports by the United Nations Broad Economic Categories system. Accounting for self‐selection and reverse causality, no impact of offshoring on TFP is found and only weak effect on patenting.
Schools as racialized organizations in policy and practice
Authors: Stewart Mahala Dyer , García Ashley , Petersen Hannah
Published: October 2021

In this paper we examine schooling inequalities through drawing from the contributions of racialized organizations. We apply the components of this racial theory to offer a new framework for examining racial inequalities in US K‐12 schools. We analyze case studies to demonstrate how the four tenants of racialized organizations operate in three schools. In particular, we highlight how these tenants surface through schools' policies (school rules around discipline, language, and tracking) and practices (interactions between students, teachers and staff). We offer a framework for understanding how schools are shaped by the racial hierarchy at the organizational level. We close by considering implications and suggestions for future research.
Swiss Municipal Data Merger Tool: Open‐source Software for the Compilation of Longitudinal Municipal‐level Data
Authors: Knechtl Valentin , Stutzer Alois
Published: October 2021

The Swiss Municipal Data Merger Tool (Swiss MDMT) offers a solution to a frequent data management problem encountered when compiling longitudinal datasets involving Swiss municipalities as the observational units. Due to municipal mergers, the number of municipalities in Switzerland declined from 3,095 in 1960 to 2,202 in 2020. As a consequence, manually securing the correct spatial reference when merging historical cross‐sectional data is tedious and time‐consuming. To facilitate this operation, the Swiss MDMT considers mutations at the municipal level and maps municipalities of a first point in time to municipalities in a second point in time based on information provided by the Swiss Federal Statistical Office's municipality inventory. The tool is distributed as an open‐source R package and is freely available on CRAN.
A hybrid kinetic and constraint‐based model of leaf metabolism allows predictions of metabolic fluxes in different environments
Authors: Shameer Sanu , Wang Yu , Bota Pedro , Ratcliffe R. George , Long Stephen P. , Sweetlove Lee J.
Published: October 2021

While flux balance analysis (FBA) provides a framework for predicting steady‐state leaf metabolic network fluxes, it does not readily capture the response to environmental variables without being coupled to other modelling formulations. To address this, we coupled an FBA model of 903 reactions of soybean (Glycine max) leaf metabolism with e‐photosynthesis, a dynamic model that captures the kinetics of 126 reactions of photosynthesis and associated chloroplast carbon metabolism. Successful coupling was achieved in an iterative formulation in which fluxes from e‐photosynthesis were used to constrain the FBA model and then, in turn, fluxes computed from the FBA model used to update parameters in e‐photosynthesis. This process was repeated until common fluxes in the two models converged. Coupling did not hamper the ability of the kinetic module to accurately predict the carbon assimilation rate, photosystem II electron flux, and starch accumulation of field‐grown soybean at two CO2 concentrations. The coupled model also allowed accurate predictions of additional parameters such as nocturnal respiration, as well as analysis of the effect of light intensity and elevated CO2 on leaf metabolism. Predictions included an unexpected decrease in the rate of export of sucrose from the leaf at high light, due to altered starch–sucrose partitioning, and altered daytime flux modes in the tricarboxylic acid cycle at elevated CO2. Mitochondrial fluxes were notably different between growing and mature leaves, with greater anaplerotic, tricarboxylic acid cycle and mitochondrial ATP synthase fluxes predicted in the former, primarily to provide carbon skeletons and energy for protein synthesis.
Combining novel technologies with interdisciplinary basic research to enhance horticultural crops
Authors: Jiang Xiaohui , Zhang Weiyi , Fernie Alisdair R. , Wen Weiwei
Published: October 2021

Horticultural crops mainly include fruits, vegetables, ornamental trees and flowers, and tea trees (Melaleuca alternifolia). They produce a variety of nutrients for the daily human diet in addition to the nutrition provided by staple crops, and some of them additionally possess ornamental and medicinal features. As such, horticultural crops make unique and important contributions to both food security and a colorful lifestyle. Under the current climate change scenario, the growing population and limited arable land means that agriculture, and especially horticulture, has been facing unprecedented challenges to meet the diverse demands of human daily life. Breeding horticultural crops with high quality and adaptability and establishing an effective system that combines cultivation, post‐harvest handling, and sales becomes increasingly imperative for horticultural production. This review discusses characteristic and recent research highlights in horticultural crops, focusing on the breeding of quality traits and the mechanisms that underpin them. It additionally addresses challenges and potential solutions in horticultural production and post‐harvest practices. Finally, we provide a prospective as to how emerging technologies can be implemented alongside interdisciplinary basic research to enhance our understanding and exploitation of horticultural crops.
Cross‐border M&As and the performance of Chinese acquiring firms
Authors: Sun Wenli , Xie Dan
Published: October 2021

This paper investigates the performance of Chinese acquirers in cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&As) between 2010 and 2018. Compared to domestic acquirers, the paper finds no significant improvement in labour productivity nor total factor productivity (TFP) within two years after acquisitions. However, firms engaged in foreign acquisitions witness an increase in total sales, employ more labour and accumulate more capital up to two years after transactions. The effects are more pronounced in deals in developed destinations relative to less‐developed countries. Heterogeneous effects are explored across various industries, as well as deal structures. The results imply that outward cross‐border M&As in China are not driven by productivity improvement but rather scale effects.
Current diagnostics for chronic enteropathies in dogs
Authors: Allenspach Karin , Mochel Jonathan P.
Published: October 2021

Chronic enteropathies (CEs) in dogs describe a group of idiopathic disorders characterized by chronic persistent or recurrent gastrointestinal (GI) signs. Three major subgroups of CE can be identified by their response to treatment: Food‐responsive disease (FRD), antibiotic‐responsive disease (ARD), and steroid‐responsive disease (SRD). The clinical diagnosis of CE is made by exclusion of all other possible causes of chronic diarrhea and includes histologic assessment of intestinal biopsies. The process of diagnosing canine CE can therefore be very time‐consuming and expensive, and in most cases, does not help to identify dogs that will respond to a specific treatment. The development of novel diagnostic tests for canine CE has therefore focused on the accuracy of such tests to predict treatment responses. In this article, several novel assays that have the potential to become commercially available will be discussed, such as genetic tests, perinuclear anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (pANCA), antibodies against transglutaminase/gliadin, antibodies against E coli OmpC/flagellin, and micro RNAs.
Factors influencing lower extremity amputation outcomes in people with active foot ulceration in regional Australia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tehan Peta Ellen , Hawes Morgan Brian , Hurst Joanne , Sebastian Mathew , Peterson Benjamin John , Chuter Vivienne Helaine
Published: October 2021

Australia has the second highest rate of non‐traumatic lower extremity amputation (LEA) globally. Australia's large geographical size is one of the biggest challenges facing limb preservation services and may be contributing to LEA. The aim of this study was to determine what factors contribute to the likelihood of LEA in people with active foot ulceration in regional Australia. This retrospective cohort study audited patients with active foot ulceration in a multidisciplinary high risk foot service (HRFS) in regional Australia. Neurological, vascular and wound characteristics were systematically extracted, along with demographic information. Participants were followed for at least 12 months until healing or LEA occurred. Correlations between LEA and clinical and demographic characteristics were assessed using the Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient and chi squared test for independence. Significant variables (p < 0.05) were included in the model. Direct logistic regression assessed the independent contribution of significantly correlated variables on the likelihood of LEA. Of note, 1876 records were hand screened with 476 participants (25%) meeting the inclusion criteria. Geographical distance from the HRFS, toe systolic pressure (TSP), diabetes and infection were all significantly correlated with LEA and included in the logistic regression model. TSP decrease of 1 mmHg (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01–1.03), increased geographical distance (1 km) from HRFS (OR 1.006, 95% CI 1.001–1.01) infection (OR 2.08, 95% CI 1.06–4.07) and presence of diabetes (OR 3.77, 95% CI 1.12–12.65) were all significantly associated with increased likelihood of LEA. HRFS should account for the disparity in outcomes between patients living in close proximity to their service, compared to those in rural areas. Optimal management of diabetes, vascular perfusion and control of infection may also contribute to preventing LEA in people with active foot ulceration.
Talent Management: An Emerging Focus on the Banking Sector of South Africa
Authors: . Abhinanda , Muralidharan Sandeep
Published: October 2021

An organisation's talent management practice is a human resource strategy aimed at identifying, developing, deploying and retaining talented and high-potential staff. Talent management is primarily among the human resource practices of employee development. By identifying and enhancing the skills of employees, it not only increases their efficiency, but also results in higher job satisfaction, increased motivation, and elevated retention rates of staff.The purpose of this research was to look into the impact of talent management on South Africa's banking sector, with reference to the retention of employees. Those included in the study were randomly selected managers and staff from FNB, ABSA and Nedbank. The study's goal was to investigate if targeted talent management influences the retention of employees within the organisation.This study used a descriptive research design. To obtain quantitative data, the researcher applied a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data produced from Cronbach alpha, Z-test and Chi-square tests. The research disclosed that the primary talent methods are motivation, regular training and employee development.However, succession planning, career mentoring, recruitment, and selection - as talent management techniques have a direct relationship with employee retention. Based on the study’s findings, it is recommended that the organisation should develop effective talent management practices aimed at increasing the retention of employees.
Media Post-coloniality and the Ethereal Persian ‘Empress’: How Hollywood Weaponized the Nostalgia of Exile
Authors: Boroujerdi Sarah
Published: October 2021

The osmosis between Iranian exile, Oriental repertoires, and the commodification of nostalgia in film and contemporary1 culture alludes to the Disney reproduction of the East that is capitalized by Hollywood’s invisible hand. The commodification of Orientalist logic via nostalgia of old civilization and Achaemenid grandeur is conveyed by Hamid Naficy’s (1991) reference to Edward Said’s (1978) ‘imaginary2 geography’—the inventive tool of narration that augments tales and anecdotes of exilic narratives, while heightening essentialism of the East. The European modeling of coronation, bejeweled scepters of royalty under the Pahlavi period (1941-1979), and cinematic repertoires of Iranians in film are perpetuated for viewers via fetishization, lust, and enchantment. The televised 1967 coronation of Queen Farah (b. 1938) solidified the trope of the Persian ‘Empress’ through picturesque markers of Achaemenid rulership (550-330 BCE). Media3 propagations of nostalgia in the paradisiacal Pahlavi coronation can be paralleled to current illusions of the Orient presented in the film Paterson (Jarmusch, 2016), starring exiled Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani. I refer to the Pahlavi coronation to expand on the spectacle of ‘nostalgia’, and the desire for a distant homeland. Naficy’s (1991) interpretation of ‘nostalgia’—a factor of exile, expounds how relics and objects induce a longing for the distant and ahistorical. Objects of nostalgia are inexplicably weaponized in Hollywood inventions of Near Eastern characters and serve as palpable symbols of the East via skewed representations of women, sexuality, and the exotic4 (Ahmed, 2006). Poetry, nostalgia, and fictional tales of the Orient in Paterson (Jarmusch, 2016) allude to Said’s (1978) vision of the imperialist project in Orientalism. The inventive and imaginary power of color media in the televised Pahlavi coronation and the fashioning of a politically permanent subject of interest—Iranians and the East, augured a pertinent era of media post-coloniality5 via the preservation of orientalism, rather than the Orient.
Zooplankton distribution in Mesophotic Corals at Bajo Frijol seamount, Colombian Caribbean
Authors: Contreras Vega Laura , Henao Castr Alejandro , Navas S Gabriel R
Published: October 2021

Mesophotic coral ecosystems shelter unique communities, but have not been studied enough due to the high cost for the available technologies. The zooplankton have become the primary food resource of the polyps at these environments, due to the low photosynthesis rate of its zooxanthellae, . Therefore, the purpose of this work was to study the zooplankton community associated to the MCEs in Bajo Frijol, in the Corales de Profundidad National Natural Park, and compare its composition with the zooplankton community from shallower parts of the water column. Three samples were taken, filtering 24 L of seawater (45 µm mesh size) at each station with a device designed to collect zooplankton right on top of the reef substrate. The taxonomic composition, density and relative abundance were obtained. A resemblance analysis was performed, complemented with a cluster, an MDS and a modified Kandoorp test. The analysis showed clear differences between the water column samples from those taken close to the reef. It also showed the separation of the community at the seamount into two large groups: north and center-south, both with exclusive species.
Forecasting Current Velocity and Profile in a Strait Water Using Warped Gaussian Process
Authors: Wei Kai , Liao Xiang , Qin Shunquan
Published: October 2021

Ocean current forecast is vital for developing tidal energy and construction of offshore structures in the strait waters. This paper developed a short-term ocean current forecasting approach, which consists of the measured data preprocessing, kernel function selection, and data forecasting using the warped Gaussian process (WGP). A preprocessing using the wavelet thresholding method was proposed to enhance the quality of the measured raw data. The theory of WGP and the commonly used kernel functions were briefly introduced. The sliding time window and one-step ahead strategies were employed to increase the accuracy of predictions. Observations collected during an ocean current measurement campaign executed in a strait water on the coast of the East China Sea were used as an example data set. The current velocity and profile were forecasted and validated using the example data set as an illustration of the framework of the developed approach. The effects of window length, kernel function, and time interval on the WGP forecasting efficiency and precision were investigated. The forecasting performance of the developed WGP model was discussed by comparing it with the standard Gaussian process prediction (GP) model. The current profile with a 95% confidence interval was also predicted by the developed WGP model at a certain point. The validation shows that the developed model is efficient in the short-term ocean current forecast.
General method for predicting ZnO–metal interface termination: Extension of the method for Al2O3–metal systems
Authors: Yoshitake Michiko
Published: October 2021

A method for predicting interface termination between zinc oxide and various metals, in general, is discussed by extending the method previously proposed for the prediction of Al2O3–metal interface termination, which has been implemented as a free web-based software. Experimental results and first-principles calculations in references on the interface termination are carefully examined and compared with the predicted ones. It is demonstrated that the predicted results agree well with those experimental and calculated results. The method uses only basic parameters of pure elements and the formation enthalpy of oxides. Therefore, it can be applied for most of the metals in the periodic table.
Influence of envelope fluctuation on the lateralization of interaurally delayed low-frequency stimuli
Authors: Encke Jörg , Dietz Mathias
Published: October 2021

Disregarding onset and offset effects, interaurally delaying a 500 Hz tone by 1.5 ms is identical to advancing it by 0.5 ms. When presented over headphones, humans indeed perceive such a tone lateralized toward the side of the nominal lag. Any stimulus other than a tone has more than one frequency component and is thus unambiguous. It has been shown that phase ambiguity can be resolved when increasing the stimulus bandwidth. This has mostly been attributed to the integration of information across frequencies. Additionally, interaural timing information conveyed in the stimulus envelope within a single frequency channel is a second possible cue that could help to resolve phase ambiguity. This study employs stimuli designed to differ in the amount of envelope fluctuation while retaining the same power spectral density as well as interaural differences. Any difference in lateralization must thus be a result of the difference in envelope. The results show that stimuli with strong envelope fluctuation require significantly smaller bandwidths to resolve phase ambiguity when compared to stimuli with weak envelope fluctuation. This suggests that within-channel information is an important cue used to resolve phase ambiguity.
Gridless three-dimensional compressive beamforming with the Sliding Frank-Wolfe algorithm
Authors: Chardon Gilles , Boureau Ulysse
Published: October 2021

The application of the Sliding Frank-Wolfe algorithm to gridless compressive beamforming is investigated for single and multi-snapshot measurements and the estimation of the three-dimensional (3D) position of the sources and their amplitudes. Sources are recovered by solving an infinite dimensional optimization problem, promoting sparsity of the solutions, and avoiding the basis mismatch issue. The algorithm does not impose constraints on the source model or array geometry. A variant of the algorithm is proposed for greedy identification of the sources. The experimental results and Monte Carlo simulations in 3D settings demonstrate the performances of the method and its numerical efficiency compared to the state of the art.
Impact of the First Wave of COVID-19 on Physical Activity Promotion in the European Union: Results From a Policymaker Survey
Authors: Gelius Peter , Tcymbal Antonina , Whiting Stephen , Messing Sven , Abu-Omar Karim , Geidl Wolfgang , Reimers Anne Kerstin , Pfeifer Klaus , Mendes Romeu , Berdzuli Nino , Breda Joao
Published: October 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is a major challenge for societies and governments around the world that severely affects all aspects of health promotion. This study assesses the potential influence of the first wave of the pandemic on national physical activity promotion policy in the European Union (EU). Methods: Data were collected using an online survey among members of the EU Physical Activity Focal Point Network, which consists of government officials from all EU member states. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected physical activity promotion across the EU. In particular, experts indicated that it has negatively impacted opportunities for physical activity in their countries. There have, however, been positive effects of the crisis on public awareness of physical activity. While almost all countries were able to issue physical activity recommendations during quarantine, opinions varied regarding the overall impact of the pandemic on governmental capacities for physical activity promotion and policy. Conclusions: This study shows that the COVID-19 crisis has had both negative and positive effects on physical activity promotion in the EU. The positive experiences reported by some members of the Focal Point Network may assist other countries in identifying potential policy windows and strategies for the ongoing pandemic.
Immune memory from SARS-CoV-2 infection in hamsters provides variant-independent protection but still allows virus transmission
Authors: Horiuchi Shu , Oishi Kohei , Carrau Lucia , Frere Justin , Møller Rasmus , Panis Maryline , tenOever Benjamin R.
Published: October 2021

SARS-CoV-2 infection results in cellular memory that protects against variants of concern but fails to block transmission.
Global Transcriptional Repression of Diguanylate Cyclases by MucR1 Is Essential for
Sinorhizobium
-Soybean Symbiosis
Authors: Li Meng-Lin , Jiao Jian , Zhang Biliang , Shi Wen-Tao , Yu Wen-Hao , Tian Chang-Fu
Published: October 2021

The ubiquitous second messenger c-di-GMP is well-known for its role in biofilm formation and host adaptation of pathogens, whereas it is less investigated in mutualistic symbioses. Here, we reveal a cocktail of eight functional diguanylate cyclases (DGCs) catalyzing the biosynthesis of c-di-GMP in a broad-host-range
Sinorhizobium
that can establish nitrogen-fixing nodules on soybean and many other legumes.
Influenza A Virus (H1N1) Infection Induces Microglial Activation and Temporal Dysbalance in Glutamatergic Synaptic Transmission
Authors: Düsedau Henning Peter , Steffen Johannes , Figueiredo Caio Andreeta , Boehme Julia Désirée , Schultz Kristin , Erck Christian , Korte Martin , Faber-Zuschratter Heidi , Smalla Karl-Heinz , Dieterich Daniela , Kröger Andrea , Bruder Dunja , Dunay Ildiko Rita
Published: October 2021

Influenza A virus (IAV) causes respiratory tract disease and is responsible for seasonal and reoccurring epidemics affecting all age groups. Next to typical disease symptoms, such as fever and fatigue, IAV infection has been associated with behavioral alterations presumably contributing to the development of major depression.
Modulation of the Host Cell Transcriptome and Epigenome by Fusobacterium nucleatum
Authors: Despins Cody A. , Brown Scott D. , Robinson Avery V. , Mungall Andrew J. , Allen-Vercoe Emma , Holt Robert A.
Published: October 2021

Fusobacterium nucleatum
is a bacterium normally found in the healthy oral cavity but also has an emerging role in colorectal cancer and other cancer settings. The host-microbe interactions of
F. nucleatum
and its involvement in tumor initiation, progression, and treatment resistance are not fully understood.
Plastic-Degrading Potential across the Global Microbiome Correlates with Recent Pollution Trends
Authors: Zrimec Jan , Kokina Mariia , Jonasson Sara , Zorrilla Francisco , Zelezniak Aleksej
Published: October 2021

Utilization of synthetic biology approaches to enhance current plastic degradation processes is of crucial importance, as natural plastic degradation processes are very slow. For instance, the predicted lifetime of a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle under ambient conditions ranges from 16 to 48 years.
Cryo-Electron Microscopy Structure and Interactions of the Human Cytomegalovirus gHgLgO Trimer with Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor Alpha
Authors: Liu Jing , Vanarsdall Adam , Chen Dong-Hua , Chin Andrea , Johnson David , Jardetzky Theodore S.
Published: October 2021

HCMV is a herpesvirus that infects a large percentage of the adult population and causes significant levels of disease in immunocompromised individuals and birth defects in the developing fetus. The virus encodes a complex protein machinery that coordinates infection of different cell types in the body, including a trimer formed of gH, gL, and gO subunits.
In Vitro
Efficacy of Gentamicin Alone and in Combination with Ceftriaxone, Ertapenem, and Azithromycin against Multidrug-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Li Xuechun , Le Wenjing , Lou Xiangdi , Wang Biwei , Genco Caroline A. , Rice Peter A. , Su Xiaohong
Published: October 2021

Antimicrobial-resistant
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
is a major global public health concern. New treatment options are urgently needed to successfully treat multidrug-resistant (MDR)
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
infections.