bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of grey component replacement processing and varnishing on the light fastness of colours on cardboard prints
Authors: Cigula Tomislav , Tomašegović Tamara , Donevski Davor , Hudika Tomislav
Published: July 2022

The visual appearance of packaging is one of its most important features. Electromagnetic irradiation causes a change in colour and often leads to colour fading (ie, to diminished visual appearance of a printed product). This research study aimed to determine the combined effect of grey component replacement image processing and varnishing on the protection of prints' appearance when exposed to accelerated ageing. For that purpose, two test charts were printed in a lithographic press and coated with water‐based and ultraviolet‐curable varnish before exposing them to xenon light. The prepared prints were evaluated by determining the tone values and colour difference, as well as the rub and abrasion resistance. In addition, Fourier Transform–infrared‐attenuated total reflectance spectra were recorded to detect possible chemical changes caused by the (AcA). The results showed that the investigated period of (AcA) caused significant differences in the tone values of yellow, while the other primary colours proved to be more resistant. The water‐based varnish provided better protection than the ultraviolet‐curable varnish. The grey component replacement image processing diminished the colour difference caused by (AcA) on all the prepared print samples, and was particularly detected in tertiary colours containing the mid‐range tone values of yellow (34%‐68%). Both varnishes improved the rub resistance of aged prints, but only ultraviolet‐curable varnish improved the abrasion resistance of both the unaged and the aged prints. In conclusion, applying varnish to prints ensured enhanced rub and abrasion resistance and diminished the colour change caused by (AcA). Finally, improved resistance to colour change was achieved by processing images with the grey component replacement method.
Disaster impacts, resilience, and sustainability opportunities for Gili Trawangan, Indonesia: transdisciplinary reflections following COVID‐19
Authors: Partelow Stefan , Fujitani Marie , Williams Sian , Robbe Delphine , Saputra Raditya Andrean
Published: July 2022

This paper contains transdisciplinary reflections from both scientists and local NGO (nongovernmental organisation) managers on the international small island tourism destination of Gili Trawangan, Indonesia. These viewpoints centre on the impacts of, as well as the short‐ and long‐term adaptation strategies and sustainability opportunities associated with, two disasters that occurred in rapid succession: the earthquakes that struck Lombok in 2018; and the COVID‐19 pandemic that began in 2020. A brief review of the governance challenges facing Gili Trawangan sets up the analysis of the findings and the presentation of new empirical insights into how the island's communities have dealt with two unique disaster scenarios over the past three years. The paper draws on a community resilience framework premised on social capital and collective action theories to position the island's ability to transition towards sustainable tourism in the wake of the COVID‐19 pandemic. It concludes by laying out sustainability opportunities going forward.
First reports of Calonectria pacifica and Ca. kyotensis in the soil from Camellia oleifera plantations in China
Authors: Pei Fan , Zhou Lifeng , Pan Weihua , Lin Haiping , Zhou Xudong
Published: July 2022

Camellia oleifera is an important economic plant widely grown in South China. The oil extracted from C. oleifera seeds is edible containing high‐quality unsaturated fatty acids. Calonectria species are well‐known fungal plant pathogens. In this study, 30 soil samples were collected from five C. oleifera plantations in Dajian Mountain, Zhejiang Province, China, and a total of 21 isolates of Calonectria species were obtained. Based on the morphological characterizations and phylogenetic analysis using combined sequence data of four genes including cmdA, his3, tef1 and tub2, these Calonectria species were identified as Calonectria pacifica and Ca. kyotensis. Pathogenicity tests using inoculation of wounded leaves proved that the two obtained Calonectria species were pathogenic to C. oleifera. To our knowledge, this represents the first report of Calonectria species from the soils in C. oleifera plantations and their potential threat as pathogens of the plant should be monitored.
Industrialisation in a small grain economy during the First Globalisation: Bulgaria c. 1870–1910
Authors: Ivanov Martin , Kopsidis Michael
Published: July 2022

In Bulgaria the share of secondary production in GDP remained constantly low between c. 1870–1910. To explain the country's exceptionally weak growth, we use endogenous and unified growth theory. Gerschenkron and Palairet blame a self‐sufficiency‐oriented peasant economy for rising labour and raw material costs in industry, which destroyed the competitiveness of Bulgarian manufacturing and prevented industrialisation. We refute the existence of any long‐lasting cost increases in industry after 1878. Quite the opposite was true: the expansion of Bulgaria's secondary sector was restricted by detrimental changes on the demand side, for which peasants were not responsible. Recent research claims that, around 1910, Bulgarian textile production was significantly lower than in 1870. Our study brings to light new data and information that clearly disproves this view. Until around 1910, a booming modern manufacturing sector more than replaced the country's proto‐industries’ textile outputs, which had plummeted dramatically during the early years of the newly founded Bulgarian state. However, as the rise of modern manufacturing in textile production coincided with the decline of the entire large sector of traditional manufacturing, secondary production as a whole stagnated.
Mitochondrial DNA variant spectrum and the association with chronic tic disorders
Authors: Jiang Peifang , Zhu Tao , Liu Jiajing , Tao Xiaohan , Xue Ziru , Tao Yiling , Chen Hongyu , Zeng Xiaojing , Zhu Weiyi , Shu Qiang , Yu Lan
Published: July 2022

Background and purpose

Tic disorders (TDs) are childhood onset neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by single or multiple sudden, rapid, recurrent, and motor tics and/or vocal tics. Several nuclear genes that are involved in mitochondrial functions suggest a potential role of mitochondria in TDs.

Methods

To evaluate the association of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants with TDs, we screened the whole mitochondrial genomes in 493 TD patients and 109 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls using next generation sequencing technology.

Results

A total of 1918 mtDNA variants including 1220 variants in patients only, 154 variants in controls only, and 544 variants shared by both cases and controls were identified. We found a higher number of overall mtDNA variants in TD patients (p = 0.00028). The variant density in MT‐ATP6/8 and MT‐CYB coding regions showed a significant difference between TD patients and controls (p = 0.0025 and p = 0.003, respectively). Furthermore, we observed a significant association of 15 common variants with TD based on an additive model, including m.14766C > T, m.14783 T > C, m.14905G > A, and m.15301G > A in MT‐CYB; m.4769A > G, m.10398A > G, m.12705C > T, and m.12850A > G in MT‐ND genes; m.7028C > T in MT‐CO1; m.8701A > G in MT‐ATP6; two variants with m.16223C > T, m.5580 T > C in noncoding regions; and three rRNA variants with m.1438A > G and m.750A > G in RNR1, and m.2352 T > C in RNR2.

Conclusions

Our data provide evidence of mtDNA variants associated with TDs. The accumulation of the heteroplasmic levels may increase the risk of TDs. Replication studies with larger samples are necessary to understand the pathogenesis of TDs.
Modified spider monkey optimization algorithm based feature selection and probabilistic neural network classifier in face recognition
Authors: Balasubramanian Kishore , Nalligoundenpalayam Periyasamy Ananthamoorthy , Kishore Ramya
Published: July 2022

This paper proposes a novel and robust predictive method using modified spider monkey optimization (MSMO) and probabilistic neural network (PNN) for face recognition. The limitation of the traditional spider monkey optimization (SMO) approach to obtaining an optimal solution for classification problems is overcome by enhancing the performance of SMO by modifying the perturbation rate with a non‐linear function, thereby improving the convergence of SMO. The framework comprises image preprocessing, feature extraction using dual tree complex wavelet transform (DT‐CWT), feature selection using the modified spider monkey optimization algorithm (MSMO), and classification using PNN. The proposed method is tested on the Yale and AR Face datasets. Experimental outcomes reveal that the proposed framework attain an accuracy of 99.4% with appreciable sensitivity, specificity, and G‐mean. To examine the efficacy of MSMO, parametric studies are conducted, which showed that MSMO converges faster with high fitness when compared to similar evolutionary algorithms like Genetic Algorithm (GA), Grey Wolf Optimization Algorithm (GWO), Particle Swarm Algorithm (PSO), and Cuckoo Search (CS) in selecting the optimal feature set. The MSMO‐PNN method outperforms similar state‐of‐the‐art methods, which reveals that the method proposed is competitive. The proposed model is robust to Gaussian and salt–pepper noise, obtaining the highest accuracy of 97.89% for varied noise density and variance.
(Dis)trust in doctors and public and private healthcare institutions in the Western Balkans
Authors: Maljichi Driton , Limani Blerim , Spier Troy E. , Angjelkoska Violeta , Stojković Zlatanović Sanja , Maljichi Drita , Alloqi Tahirbegolli Iliriana , Tahirbegolli Bernard , Kulanić Ahmed , Agolli Nasufi Irida , Kovač‐Orlandić Milica
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Considering the geopolitical changes in the six Western Balkan countries—Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia—over the last three decades, particularly as it concerns the progress and changes in the healthcare systems, we argue that there is a need for a detailed analysis of people's trust in those healthcare systems and healthcare providers.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional, intercountry study, we examine the trust trends of Western Balkans citizens in medical doctors and public and private healthcare institutions from 25 July 2021 to 30 October 2021, with 3789 participants using a self‐reported questionnaire, and Google Forms. Snowball sampling is used to collect data from six Western Balkans countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia.

Findings

The primary findings of our study show that citizens in the Western Balkans have a low level of trust in their healthcare system (X̄ = 4.3/10). Medical doctors working in private healthcare institutions, on the other hand, are afforded a higher level of trust (X̄ = 6.6/10) than those working in public healthcare institutions (X̄ = 5.7/10). In the event that they or their family members need to visit a health institution, half of the study participants would choose private healthcare institutions over public ones. We found a statistically significant difference between countries on the mean points from the questions concerning one's trust in the healthcare system, private healthcare institutions and medical doctors working in public and private sectors (p < .05).

Conclusion

Despite its limitations, this study is the first cross‐sectional research on the ‘trust interface’ among western Balkan citizens, revealing that they have low trust in their healthcare systems.

Public Contribution

The information in this manuscript was gathered on the level of 3789 citizens from six Western Balkan countries. Before we began collecting data, we conducted a piloting procedure with 40 citizens who were clients of health institutions to validate the data collection questionnaire.
The DDT‐induced decline influenced genetic diversity in naturally recovered Peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) nesting within the Alaska Arctic and eastern interior
Authors: Sonsthagen Sarah A. , Swem Ted , Ambrose Skip , Flamme Melanie J. , White Clayton M. , Sage George K. , Talbot Sandra L.
Published: July 2022

We assessed the influence of the severe mid‐20th century population decline on genetic diversity in non‐augmented Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus populations nesting within the Alaska Arctic and eastern Interior. Microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) data were analysed for Peregrine Falcons sampled from three periods: pre‐decline, decline and post‐decline. The influence of the decline on genetic diversity differed between the two locales. The Alaska Arctic was characterized by shifts in mtDNA haplotype frequencies, increased inbreeding coefficient, reduction in effective population size and increase in private haplotypes, and a signature of post‐decline population growth was detected; by contrast, the eastern Interior showed a reduction in haplotype diversity and no differences in allelic or haplotypic frequencies between pre‐ and post‐decline periods, though pre‐decline birds clustered away from the other two periods and allelic frequency differences were observed between decline and post‐decline periods. Patterns in genetic diversity suggest populations recovered through recruitment from within and immigration.
The first case of a successful brood from a double hybrid mixed pair (Dendrocopos syriacus × Dendrocopos major (Picidae))
Authors: Kajtoch Łukasz , Kusal Bartłomiej
Published: July 2022

Hybridization occurs between numerous bird species, with some of them capable of producing backcrosses. However, little information is available concerning mating between pairs of hybrids. In this case study, a mixed pairing is reported between hybrids of Syrian and Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Dendrocopos syriacus and Dendrocopos major, respectively. Mixed phenotypic and genotypic traits were found in the male, the female and their offspring. The possible consequences of hybridization and its effect on the Syrian Woodpecker, which is protected under the Bird Directive of the European Union, are discussed.
Semi‐automated detection of tagged animals from camera trap images using artificial intelligence
Authors: Santangeli Andrea , Chen Yuxuan , Boorman Mark , Sales Ligero Sofía , Albert García Guillermo
Published: July 2022

The use of technology in ecology and conservation offers unprecedented opportunities to survey and monitor wildlife remotely, for example by using camera traps. However, such solutions typically cause challenges stemming from the big datasets gathered, such as millions of camera trap images. Artificial intelligence is a proven, powerful tool to automate camera trap image analyses, but this is so far largely been restricted to species identification from images. Here, we develop and test an artificial intelligence algorithm that allows discrimination of individual animals carrying a tag (in this case a patagial yellow tag on vultures) from a large array of camera trap images. Such a tool could assist scientists and practitioners using similar patagial tags on vultures, condors and other large birds worldwide. We show that the overall performance of such an algorithm is relatively good, with 88.9% of all testing images (i.e. those not used for training or validation) correctly classified using a cut‐off discrimination of 0.4. Specifically, performance was high for correctly classifying images with a tag (95.2% of all positive images correctly classified), but less so for images without a tag (87.0% of all negative images). The correct classification of images with a tag was, however, significantly higher when the tag code was at least partly readable compared with the other cases. Overall, this study underscores the potential of artificial intelligence for assisting scientists and practitioners in analysing big datasets from camera traps.
Auditor's responses to changes in risk
Authors: Bradbury Michael E. , Scott Tom
Published: July 2022

This paper examines whether auditors plan engagements to be the same‐as‐last‐year (SALY) and if they respond to changes in risk both before and during audit engagements by varying engagements from planned. These are important questions considering audit standards require the assessment of risk and general concerns about audit quality and fee pressure. We provide new insights using a proprietary database containing both quoted and reported audit hours and fees. We find that the basis quoted audit hours and billing rates (i.e., audit plans) are prepared on is not SALY. However, as there is little difference for audit hours, we conclude that they are based‐on‐last‐year (BOLY). Changes in audit characteristics are associated with the variance between quoted and reported audit hours and billing rates. In addition, auditors with higher reputational risk quote more audit hours and have a higher quoted average billing rate and further increase them from quoted.
The influence of chatbot humour on consumer evaluations of services
Authors: Shin Hyunju , Bunosso Isabella , Levine Lindsay R.
Published: July 2022

Technological advances have enabled firms to automate customer service by employing artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. Despite their many potential benefits, interactions with chatbots may still feel machine‐like and cold. The current study proposes the use of humour by chatbots as a gateway to humanizing them and thereby enhancing the customer experience. Across three experimental studies, the results reveal that (i) the use of humour enhances service satisfaction when it is used by a chatbot but not when it is used by a human agent, (ii) this chatbot humour effect is serially mediated by enhanced perceptions of anthropomorphism and interestingness of the interactions with the chatbot, and (iii) whilst both positively and negatively valenced chatbot humour may enhance the interestingness of the interactions, socially appropriate (i.e., affiliative) humour as opposed to inappropriate (i.e., aggressive) humour leads to enhanced service satisfaction. This study extends the understanding of the humanization processes of chatbots and provides guidelines for how firms should use chatbot humour to positively influence consumers' service satisfaction.
Novel pain management therapies for patients with pemphigus
Authors: Garcia Natalie , Patel Om U. , Graham Lauren
Published: July 2022

Pemphigus is a class of rare autoimmune diseases that causes incredibly painful blistering of the skin and significantly impacts patients' day‐to‐day lives and well‐being. Many strides have been made in treating pemphigus; however, no comprehensive literature exists on how to treat the pain that accompanies the disease. It is important to remember that treating pemphigus involves a two‐fold treatment plan assessing both the underlying autoimmune disease and the pain involved with the lesions. This literature review explores novel therapies that have been shown to be effective in treating pain in pemphigus.
Job demands and well‐being in universities in the pandemic: A longitudinal study
Authors: Wood Stephen
Published: July 2022

Concerns about work intensification within universities have been an issue over the past decade and the Covid‐19 pandemic may have accelerated any trend toward excessive job demands associated with work‐related stress. This paper reports a longitudinal study conducted in two English universities based on observations at 11 time points from March 2020 to February 2021, covering academic and nonacademic workers. The results show that four measures of job demands increased during the period and that blended learning has contributed to these increases. Various measures of well‐being are negatively associated with work intensity, while work–nonwork conflict is positively related to it and mediates the demands–well‐being relationship. The study also shows that the use of a variety of methods of accommodating the increased demands—increasing total hours, working at weekends, extending the work day and forsaking breaks, normal holidays and exercise—are associated with increased work intensity. The policy implications of the study are that interventions aimed at employee well‐being should be focused on the causes of stress and, particularly, job demands, rather than coping with stress and that future decisions about homeworking should take account of these causes and not simply the satisfaction or performance levels of homeworkers.
The challenges and potential of geogenomics for biogeography and conservation in Amazonia
Authors: Ribas Camila C. , Fritz Sherilyn C. , Baker Paul A.
Published: July 2022

Amazonia has a very high, although still incompletely known, species diversity distributed over a mosaic of heterogeneous habitats that are also poorly characterized. As a result of this multi‐faceted complexity, Amazonia poses a great challenge to geogenomic approaches that strive to find causal links between Earth's geological history and biotic diversification, including the use of genomic data to solve geologic problems. This challenge is even greater because of the need for interdisciplinary approaches despite the difficulties of working across disciplines, where misinterpretations of the literature in disparate research fields can produce unrealistic scenarios of biotic‐geologic linkages. The exchange of information and the joint work of geologists and biologists are essential for building stronger and more realistic hypotheses about how past climate may have affected the distribution and connectivity among populations, how the evolution of drainage networks influenced biotic diversification, and how ecological traits and species interactions currently define the spatial organization of biodiversity, and thus how this organization has changed in the past and may change in the future. The heterogeneity of Amazonia and the different effects of historical processes over its distinct regions and ecosystems have to be more completely recognized in biogeography, conservation; and policymaking. In this perspective, we provide examples of geological, climatological; and ecological information relevant to studies of biotic diversification in Amazonia, where recent advances (and their limitations) may not be apparent to researchers in other fields. The three examples, which include the limitations of climate model outputs, the complicated evolution of river drainages; and the complex link between species and their habitats modulated by ecological specialization, are a small subsample intended to illustrate the urgency for more integrated interdisciplinary approaches.
Patterns of reading behaviour in digital hypertext environments
Authors: Hahnel Carolin , Ramalingam Dara , Kroehne Ulf , Goldhammer Frank
Published: July 2022

Background

Computer‐based assessment allows for the monitoring of reader behaviour. The identification of patterns in this behaviour can provide insights that may be useful in informing educational interventions.

Objectives

Our study aims to explore what different patterns of reading activity exist, and investigates their interpretation and consistency across different task sets (units), countries, and languages. Three patterns were expected: on‐task, exploring and disengaged.

Methods

Using log data from the PISA 2012 digital reading assessment (9226 students from seven countries), we conducted hierarchical cluster analyses with typical process indicators of digital reading assessments. We identified different patterns and explored whether they remained consistent across different units. To validate the interpretation of the identified patterns, we examined their relationship to performance and student characteristics (gender, socio‐economic status, print reading skills).

Results and Conclusions

The results indicate a small number of transnational clusters, with unit‐specific differences. Cluster interpretation is supported by associations with student characteristics—for example, students with low print reading skills were more likely to show a disengaged pattern than proficient readers. Exploring behaviour tended to be exhibited only once across the three units: It occurred in the first unit for proficient readers and in later units for less skilled readers.

Major Takeaways

Behavioural patterns can be identified in digital reading tasks that may prove useful for educational monitoring and intervention. Although task situations are designed to evoke certain behaviours, the interpretation of observed behavioural patterns requires validation based on task requirements, assessment context and relationships to other available information.
Periodontitis prevalence in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease ‐ PPCC: A case–control study
Authors: Bertl Kristina , Burisch Johan , Pandis Nikolaos , Bruckmann Corinna , Klinge Björn , Stavropoulos Andreas
Published: July 2022

Aim

The aim of this questionnaire‐based case–control study was to assess whether self‐reported oral health and periodontitis in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) differ from those in matched controls without inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Materials and Methods

A survey including questions on general anamnestic information, IBD diagnosis, and oral health was distributed online. Self‐perceived overall health of teeth and gums, severe periodontitis, and tooth loss were defined as outcome parameters.

Results

Analyses were based on answers from 1108 patients with IBD and 3429 controls. Patients with IBD reported significantly worse oral health and more periodontal problems compared to controls. Regression analyses corrected for relevant confounders showed significantly increased odds for fair or poor self‐perceived overall health of teeth and gums (odds ratio [OR] 2.147 and 2.736, respectively) and for severe periodontitis (OR 1.739 and 2.574, respectively) for patients with UC and CD compared to controls; patients with CD presented additionally 91% higher odds for having <20 remaining teeth.

Conclusion

Patients with UC and CD have significantly increased odds for worse self‐perceived oral health and severe periodontitis compared to controls, with the former being more severely affected and losing more teeth. It is strongly recommended that patients with IBD are kept under close surveillance to prevent periodontitis development and/or mitigate its progression.
Polygenic scores for schizophrenia and major depression are associated with psychosocial risk factors in children: evidence of gene–environment correlation
Authors: Machlitt‐Northen Sandra , Keers Robert , Munroe Patricia B. , Howard David M. , Trubetskoy Vassily , Pluess Michael
Published: July 2022

Background

Whilst genetic and environmental risk factors for schizophrenia (SCZ) and major depressive disorder (MDD) have been established, it is unclear whether exposure to environmental risk factors is genetically confounded by passive, evocative or active gene–environment correlation (rGE).

Study Objective

This study aims to investigate: (a) whether the genetic risk for SCZ/MDD in children is correlated with established environmental and psychosocial risk factors in two British community samples, the 1958 National Child Development Study (NCDS) and the Millennium Cohort Study (MCS), (b) whether these associations vary between both psychopathologies, and (c) whether findings differ across the two cohorts which were born 42 years apart.

Methods

Polygenic risk scores (PRS) from existing large genome‐wide associations studies (GWAS) were applied to test the correlation between the child genetic risk for SCZ/MDD and known environmental risk factors. In addition, parental and child genetic data from MCS were used to distinguish between passive and evocative rGE.

Results

The child polygenic risk for SCZ and MDD was correlated with single parenthood in MCS. Moreover, the lack of father's involvement in child care was associated with the genetic risk for SCZ in NCDS. However, we also found associations between several indicators of low socioeconomic status and heightened genetic risk for MDD in children in both cohorts. Further, the genetic risk for MDD was associated with parental lack of interest in the child's education in NCDS as well as more maternal smoking and less maternal alcohol consumption during childhood in MCS. According to sensitivity analyses in MCS (controlling for parental genotype), more than half of our significant correlations reflected passive rGE.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that several established environmental and psychosocial risk factors for SCZ and MDD are at least partially associated with children's genetic risk for these psychiatric disorders.
First record of biofluorescence in lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus), a commercially farmed cleaner fish
Authors: Juhasz‐Dora Thomas , Teague Jonathan , Doyle Thomas K. , Maguire Julie
Published: July 2022

This study is the first known observation of biofluorescence in the lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus). Individual lumpfish were illuminated with blue excitation lighting for photography with both hyperspectral and filtered multispectral cameras. All photographed juvenile lumpfish (n = 11) exhibited green biofluorescence. Light emissions were characterised with two peaks observed at 545 and 613 nm, with the greatest intensity along the tubercles of the high crest and the three longitudinal ridges. Further research on the dynamics of biofluorescence through the lifecycle of this species is required.
Organic acids as an alternative method to control Salmonella enterica serotype Choleraesuis and Listeria monocytogenes in pork jowl fat
Authors: Tomalok Carina de Castro Gabriel , Wlodarkievicz Maria Eduarda , Puton Bruna Maria Saorin , Colet Rosicler , Zeni Jamile , Steffens Clarice , Backes Geciane Toniazzo , Cansian Rogério Luis
Published: July 2022

The increasing incidence of foodborne illnesses worldwide has become an economic and public health problem. In order to reduce the risks associated with food safety, the Normative Instruction n° 79, 2018, modified the inspection of jowl in pork slaughterhouses in Brazil and requires the submission to validated treatments such as heat or other methods approved. Therefore, the present study evaluated the behavior of Salmonella enterica (S. enterica) serotype Choleraesuis and Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) inoculated in fresh pork jowl fat treated with different concentrations of organic acids (lactic, acetic, citric, ascorbic, and glycolic) during different times (1, 5, and 10 min) to meet the Normative Instruction. The lactic, acetic and glycolic acids had the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (0.08; 0.08 and 0.11; 0.09 and 0.13%, respectively) for both bacteria evaluated. The susceptibility results showed that the increasing exposure time reduced the acid concentration used to inhibit the growth of both bacteria previously inoculated. A great efficiency was observed for lactic acid, with reductions of 1.25 Log10 CFU/g using concentrations of 1.06% on S. enterica serovar Choleraesuis and reduction of 1.23 Log10 CFU/g using 0.64% on L. monocytogenes, with 10 min exposure. Acetic and glycolic acids also presented satisfactory microbial reductions with similar results (1.0 and 0.98 Log10 CFU/g for S. enterica, and 0.85 and 0.87 Log10 CFU/g for L. monocytogenes, respectively). It was concluded that the organic acids (lactic, acetic, and glycolic) have potential for industrial use in microbiological control of pork jowl fat.
Whole exome sequencing and transcript analysis discover a novel pathogenic splice site mutation in DCAF17 gene underlying Woodhouse‐Sakati syndrome.
Authors: Kumari Riyanka , Holla Vikram V. , Phulpagar Prashant , Sriram Neeharika , Hegde Aditya G. , Vengalil Seena , Kamble Nitish , Saini Jitender , Yadav Ravi , Pal Pramod Kumar , Muthusamy Babylakshmi
Published: July 2022

Woodhouse‐Sakati syndrome (WSS) is an extremely rare multisystemic disorder with neuroendocrine dysfunctions. It is characterized by hypogonadism, alopecia, diabetes mellitus, intellectual disability and progressive extrapyramidal syndrome along with radiological features of small pituitary gland, progressive frontoparietal white matter changes and abnormal accumulation of iron on globus pallidus. WSS is caused by mutations in DCAF17 gene that encodes for DDB1 and CUL4 associated factor 17. In this study, we report a 17‐year‐old boy with clinical and radiological features of WSS including mild global developmental delay, mild intellectual disability, sensorineural hearing loss, progressive extrapyramidal syndrome, alopecia, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and dysmorphic features. Whole exome sequencing analysis revealed a novel potentially pathogenic splice donor site variant (c.458+1G>T) on the intron 4 of DCAF17 gene. Transcript analysis revealed splicing ablation resulting in aberrant splicing of exons 3 and 5 and skipping of exon 4 (c.322_458del). This results in a frameshift and is predicted to cause premature termination of protein synthesis resulting in a protein product of length 120 amino acids (p.[Gly108Ilefs*14]). Our study identified a novel pathogenic variant causing WSS in a patient and expands the spectrum of clinical and genetic characteristics of patients with WSS.
Hepatic abnormalities in youth with Turner syndrome
Authors: Singh Isani , Noel Gillian , Barker Jennifer M. , Chatfield Kathryn C. , Furniss Anna , Khanna Amber D. , Nokoff Natalie J. , Patel Sonali , Pyle Laura , Nahata Leena , Cole Francis S. , Ikomi Chijioke , Bamba Vaneeta , Fechner Patricia Y. , Davis Shanlee M.
Published: July 2022

Background & Aims

Liver disease in children with Turner Syndrome (TS) is poorly understood relative to associated growth, cardiac and reproductive complications. This study sought to better characterize hepatic abnormalities in a large national cohort of youth with TS.

Methods

Using electronic health record data from PEDSnet institutions, 2145 females with TS were matched to 8580 females without TS on eight demographic variables. Outcomes included liver enzymes (AST and ALT) stratified as normal, 1–2 times above the upper limit of normal (ULN), 2–3 times ULN and >3 times ULN, as well as specific liver disease diagnoses.

Results

Fifty‐eight percent of youth with TS had elevated liver enzymes. Patients with TS had higher odds of enzymes 1–2 times ULN (OR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.4–1.9), 2–3 times ULN (OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.7–3.3) and >3 times ULN (OR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3–2.2). They also had higher odds of any liver diagnosis (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.7–3.3), fatty liver disease (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.2), hepatitis (OR: 3.7, 95% CI: 1.9–7.1), cirrhosis/fibrosis (OR: 5.8, 95% CI: 1.3–25.0) and liver tumour/malignancy (OR: 4.8, 95% CI: 1.4–17.0). In a multinomial model, age, BMI and presence of cardiovascular disease or diabetes significantly increased the odds of elevated liver enzymes in girls with TS.

Conclusions

Youth with TS have higher odds for elevated liver enzymes and clinically significant liver disease compared with matched controls. These results emphasize the need for clinical screening and additional research into the aetiology and treatment of liver disease in TS.

Lay summary

Turner Syndrome, a chromosomal condition in which females are missing the second sex chromosome, is often associated with short stature, infertility and cardiac complications. Liver abnormalities are less well described in the literature. In this study, nearly 60% of youth with TS have elevated liver enzymes. Furthermore, patients with TS had a diagnosis of liver disease more often than patients without TS. Our results support the importance of early and consistent liver function screening and of additional research to define mechanisms that disrupt liver function in paediatric TS females.
Length–weight relationships of five fish species from the Angqu River, China
Authors: Chen Sibao , Zhang Zhongwei , Cai Yupeng , Xie Hongzhong , Wang Fei , Wan Yanlei , Duan Guangfu , He Yunjiao , Gao Xiaoxiao
Published: July 2022

Length–weight relationships are presented for five fish species collected in the Angqu River, the headwater of the Lancang River in China. The following species were examined: Schizothorax lantsangensis, Ptychobarbus kaznakovi, Schizopygopsis anteroventris, Triplophysa stolickai and Triplophysa stenura. Specimens were collected at five sampling sites along the Angqu River over a two‐year period between April 2017 and December 2019, using different fishing gear. The values of parameter a varied between 0.005 and 0.011 while those of parameter b ranged from 2.847 to 3.09. The coefficients of determination (r2) were higher than .95. Based on the records in FishBase, the results of the present study represent the first report of LWRs for these five species in the Angqu River, with new total lengths also reported for two species (T. stolickai and T. stenura). Due to the unique location of the Angqu River, the data from the present study are expected to be valuable not only for monitoring these fish species, but also for developing and assessing appropriate management measures.
Awareness of body mass index and its associated factors: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Cheah Yong Kang , Lim Kuang Kuay , Ismail Hasimah , Salleh Ruhaya , Kee Chee Cheong , Lim Kuang Hock , Cheong Yoon Ling
Published: July 2022

This study explores the correlates of sociodemographic factors, smoking, and caloric knowledge to body mass index awareness with a focus on Malaysia. Logistic regressions were estimated to examine sociodemographic factors associated with body mass index awareness. More than half of respondents were unaware of their body mass index (54.8%). Age was negatively associated with body mass index awareness. Adults without formal education were less likely to know their body mass index than those with tertiary‐level education. Adults were less likely to be aware of their body mass index if they engaged in smoking. Adults with knowledge of the definition of calories were more aware of their body mass index than others. The findings emphasize the urgent need for a forthcoming sociodemographic factors‐specific policy directed toward improving body mass index awareness to lower the prevalence of obesity in Malaysia.
Disconnecting labour: The impact of intraplatform algorithmic changes on the labour process and workers' capacity to organise collectively
Authors: Mendonça Pedro , Kougiannou Nadia K.
Published: July 2022

This article examines how gig economy platform companies, via algorithmic management, shape working conditions and collective organisation of food delivery couriers. Using qualitative data from one case study operating in a city in the United Kingdom, the study captures real‐time intraplatform unilateral changes in algorithmic management to provide increased flexibility for couriers. Findings show algorithmic changes generating a reconfigured, fragmented and compliant workforce. As a result, couriers demonstrate different interests and motivations to work for the company, where disparities in the demands for improved working conditions hindered efforts for collective organising. This article argues that intraplatform algorithmic changes create affordances that companies can exploit to concentrate power over labour even when conceding some control over the labour process.
Sublinear regret for learning POMDPs
Authors: Xiong Yi , Chen Ningyuan , Gao Xuefeng , Zhou Xiang
Published: July 2022

We study the model‐based undiscounted reinforcement learning for partially observable Markov decision processes (POMDPs). The oracle we consider is the optimal policy of the POMDP with a known environment in terms of the average reward over an infinite horizon. We propose a learning algorithm for this problem, building on spectral method‐of‐moments estimations for hidden Markov models, the belief error control in POMDPs and upper confidence bound methods for online learning. We establish a regret bound of [Formula: see text] for the proposed learning algorithm where T is the learning horizon. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first algorithm achieving sublinear regret with respect to our oracle for learning general POMDPs.
Passive exercise increases cerebral blood flow velocity and supports a postexercise executive function benefit
Authors: Shirzad Mustafa , Tari Benjamin , Dalton Connor , Van Riesen James , Marsala Michael J. , Heath Matthew
Published: July 2022

Executive function entails high‐level cognitive control supporting activities of daily living. Literature has shown that a single‐bout of exercise involving volitional muscle activation (i.e., active exercise) improves executive function and that an increase in cerebral blood flow (CBF) may contribute to this benefit. It is, however, unknown whether non‐volitional exercise (i.e., passive exercise) wherein an individual's limbs are moved via an external force elicits a similar executive function benefit. This is a salient question given that proprioceptive and feedforward drive from passive exercise increases CBF independent of the metabolic demands of active exercise. Here, in a procedural validation participants (n = 2) used a cycle ergometer to complete separate 20‐min active and passive (via mechanically driven flywheel) exercise conditions and a non‐exercise control condition. Electromyography showed that passive exercise did not increase agonist muscle activation or increase ventilation or gas exchange variables (i.e., V̇O2 and V̇CO2). In a main experiment participants (n = 28) completed the same exercise and control conditions and transcranial Doppler ultrasound showed that active and passive exercise (but not the control condition) increased CBF through the middle cerebral artery (ps <.001); albeit the magnitude was less during passive exercise. Notably, antisaccade reaction times prior to and immediately after each condition showed that active (p < .001) and passive (p = .034) exercise improved an oculomotor‐based measure of executive function, whereas no benefit was observed in the control condition (p = .85). Accordingly, results evince that passive exercise ‘boosts’ an oculomotor‐based measure of executive function and supports convergent evidence that increased CBF mediates this benefit.
Prevention of droplet dispersal with ‘e‐mask’: A new daily use endoscopic mask during bronchoscopy
Authors: Ito Takayasu , Okachi Shotaro , Sato Kazuhide , Yasui Hirotoshi , Fukatsu Noriaki , Ando Masahiko , Chen‐Yoshikawa Toyofumi Fengshi , Saka Hideo
Published: July 2022

Background and objective

Bronchoscopy is an airborne particle‐generating procedure. However, few methods for safe bronchoscopy have been developed. To reduce airborne particles during bronchoscopy, we created an ‘e‐mask’, which is a simple, disposable mask for patients. Our objective was to evaluate the e‐mask's protective ability against airborne particles and to assess respiratory adverse events and complications.

Methods

Patients with stage 2–4 chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were excluded. We performed visualization and quantifying experiments on airborne particles with and without the e‐mask. We prospectively evaluated whether wearing the e‐mask during bronchoscopy was associated with the incidence of patients requiring >5 L/min oxygen to maintain >90% oxygen saturation, and patients with >45 mm Hg end‐tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) elevation, in addition to complications, compared to historical controls.

Results

In the visualization experiment, more than ten thousand times of airborne particles were generated without the e‐mask than with the e‐mask. The volume of airborne particles was significantly reduced with the e‐mask, compared to that without the e‐mask (p = 0.011). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that wearing the e‐mask had no significant effect on the incidence of patients requiring >5 L/min oxygen to maintain >90% oxygen saturation, (p = 0.959); however, wearing the e‐mask was a significant factor in >45 mm Hg EtCO2 elevation (p = 0.026). No significant differences in complications were observed between the e‐mask and control groups (5.8% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.395).

Conclusion

Wearing the e‐mask during bronchoscopy significantly reduced the generation of airborne particles during bronchoscopy without increasing complications.
Body image experience of women with breast cancer: A meta‐synthesis
Authors: Rodrigues Elaine Campos Guijarro , Neris Rhyquelle Rhibna , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira , de Oliveira‐Cardoso Érika Arantes , dos Santos Manoel Antônio
Published: July 2022

Background

Body image is a multidimensional concept that involves the mental image of the human body and the feeling of being oneself throughout existence. Treatment for breast cancer causes several bodily changes that affect women's body image.

Aims

This meta‐synthesis aims to synthesise and interpret primary qualitative studies on the experience of body image in women undergoing treatment for breast cancer.

Methods

A qualitative meta‐synthesis was conducted employing systematic searches in six databases (PubMed, CINAHL, SCOPUS, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and LILACS). Data analysis was performed according to thematic synthesis.

Results

Forty studies were included. Five descriptive themes were identified: (1) actively saying goodbye to body image; (2) the rupture of body image; (3) the sacrifice of body image in exchange for life; (4) body image as a vehicle for social expression; and (5) resignation of the alterated body image. These themes were understood through one analytical theme: Half‐woman: body image of the woman with breast cancer.

Conclusion

The experience of body image in the context of breast cancer is a dynamic phenomenon, which involves dismissal, rupture, and resignation and occurs mediated by interpersonal contact.
Support during the postnatal period: Evaluating new mothers' and midwives' experiences of a new, coordinated postnatal care model in a midwifery clinic in Sweden
Authors: Eikemo Ragnhild , Vikström Anna , Nyman Viola , Jonas Wibke , Barimani Mia
Published: July 2022

Objective

Continuity of care as provided by midwives promoting the health and well‐being of new mothers during the postnatal period is critical; thus, access to midwifery services needs to be facilitated. The aim of this study was to describe new mothers’ and midwives' experiences and perceptions of a new coordinated postnatal care intervention in a midwifery clinic.

Design

New mothers responded to open‐ended questions in a survey, and midwives were interviewed individually about the intervention. A deductive content analysis research related to continuity of care concepts was used.

Setting and participants

The study was carried out at a midwifery clinic in a larger city in Sweden, for an eight‐month period in 2019 and 2020. Two hundred and sixteen answers from new mothers and nine interviews with midwives were analysed.

Intervention

All registered pregnant women at the midwifery clinic received enhanced postnatal support based on a new coordinated postnatal care model. The focus was on continuity of care, from pregnancy to the postnatal period and included planning for the first weeks after childbirth at the end of pregnancy, early postnatal contact and several visits to the midwifery clinic.

Findings

New mothers describing the coordinated postnatal care model highlighted continuity and accessibility as empowering factors that made them feel assured and confident. Midwives emphasised the pregnancy to postnatal continuity as crucial to providing care based on individual needs.

Key conclusions/Implications for practice

Using a structured and coordinated care model as a midwife that includes planning for the postnatal period together with the pregnant woman at the end of pregnancy may be a good and relatively easy way to create continuity and thus ensure satisfaction and confidence in expectant and new mothers.