bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of arogenate dehydratase reveals an upstream point of metabolic control in phenylalanine biosynthesis
Authors: Yoo Heejin , Shrivastava Stuti , Lynch Joseph H. , Huang Xing‐Qi , Widhalm Joshua R. , Guo Longyun , Carter Benjamin C. , Qian Yichun , Maeda Hiroshi A. , Ogas Joseph P. , Morgan John A. , Marshall‐Colón Amy , Dudareva Natalia
Published: August 2021

Out of the three aromatic amino acids, the highest flux in plants is directed towards phenylalanine, which is utilized to synthesize proteins and thousands of phenolic metabolites contributing to plant fitness. Phenylalanine is produced predominantly in plastids via the shikimate pathway and subsequent arogenate pathway, both of which are subject to complex transcriptional and post‐transcriptional regulation. Previously, it was shown that allosteric feedback inhibition of arogenate dehydratase (ADT), which catalyzes the final step of the arogenate pathway, restricts flux through phenylalanine biosynthesis. Here, we show that in petunia (Petunia hybrida) flowers, which typically produce high phenylalanine levels, ADT regulation is relaxed, but not eliminated. Moderate expression of a feedback‐insensitive ADT increased flux towards phenylalanine, while high overexpression paradoxically reduced phenylalanine formation. This reduction could be partially, but not fully, recovered by bypassing other known metabolic flux control points in the aromatic amino acid network. Using comparative transcriptomics, reverse genetics, and metabolic flux analysis, we discovered that transcriptional regulation of the d‐ribulose‐5‐phosphate 3‐epimerase gene in the pentose phosphate pathway controls flux into the shikimate pathway. Taken together, our findings reveal that regulation within and upstream of the shikimate pathway shares control over phenylalanine biosynthesis in the plant cell.
Quantitative risk assessment of human Taenia solium exposure from consuming pork produced in Punjab, India
Authors: G K Megha , Singh Balbir Bagicha , Sharma Rajnish , Aulakh RS , Brookes Victoria J.
Published: August 2021

Taenia solium cysticercosis is a neglected zoonosis that affects people throughout much of the developing world. The disease is endemic in Punjab state of India and controlling it is a public health challenge. No studies have been conducted to quantify the risk of T. solium exposure from consuming pork produced in the state. A stochastic quantitative risk assessment (QRA) model was constructed to understand the risk of human T. solium infection from consuming pork produced in Punjab. Input data were collected from official records, published literature, active surveillance and specifically for this study. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the influence of the input parameters on the main output probability that any one pork meal is infective (contains at least one viable cyst) at consumption. The probability of any pork meal in Punjab containing at least one viable T. solium cyst post‐storage and post‐cooking was median 5.57 × 10‐4 (95% PI 1.06 × 10‐4—1.95 × 10‐3). Sobol’ sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the most influential input parameters on consumption of a pork meal with at least one viable T. solium were the probability that a meal is insufficiently cooked to render cysts unviable, and the proportion of infected carcasses following informal slaughter. Whilst improved sanitation and hygiene can prevent cysticercosis in people, efforts to reduce the prevalence of T. solium cysts in pig carcases by preventing pigs’ access to human waste, increasing meat inspection and promoting effective cooking practices are also important to reduce this source of taeniasis.
Local Judicial Practices in a Quilombola Territory in Marajó, Pará, Brazil
Authors: E Cardoso Luis Fernando Cardoso , Neto Joaquim Shiraishi
Published: August 2021

This article analyzes the socio-judicial organization of a Quilombola community in the state of Pará, Brazil. Using a pluralistic judicial systems approach, we seek to understand how Quilombolas define who has local land rights and to what capacity they can use the territory. The analysis was based on ethnographic field research in the community of Bairro Alto, on Marajó island, in Pará state, Brazil. Methods included: participant observation, interviews and questionnaires. The results showed that order in the territory is maintained through local judicial practices constructed during land occupation processes, and later reorganized on the basis of social relationships involving large-scale farmers, ranchers, neighboring Quilombola communities, and the State. Judicial tenets, intrinsic to the community, guide residents’ current land struggles where they are fighting to restore lands expropriated by ranchers that pertain to their original territory. Local legal practices converge with principles of article 68 of the Federal Constitution, making possible the correction of historical injustices related to land struggles in Quilombola communities.
Sagging Prevention for Hematite-Based Invert Emulsion Mud
Authors: Ahmed Ashraf , Basfar Salem , Elkatatny Salaheldin
Published: August 2021

The solids sagging in high-pressure high-temperature (HP/HT) reservoirs is a common challenge associated with hematite drilling fluids. This study provides a solution to hematite sagging in invert emulsion mud for HP/HT wells, which involves the combination of Micromax (Mn3O4) with hematite. The particles of both weighting agents were characterized to address their mineralogical features. A field formulation of the mud was used over a range of Micromax/hematite ratios (0/100, 20/80, and 30/70%) in laboratory experiments to address the sag performance and determine the optimal combination ratio. Then, density, emulsion stability, rheology, viscoelasticity, and filtration performance for the formulated mud were addressed. The tests were conditioned to 500 psi and 350 °F. The acquired results of sag tests indicated that incorporation of 30% Micromax solved the hematite sagging issue and brought the sag tendency within the recommended safe range. An insignificant reduction in mud density was observed upon the inclusion of Micromax, while the emulsion stability was obviously improved from 551 to 614 volts with the 30% Micromax mixture. The recommended 30/70% combination had almost no effect on plastic viscosity and yield point since they were increased by one unit, but the gel strength was improved resulting in flat rheology and better solids suspension capacity. The filtration behavior of the formulation with 30% Micromax was enhanced compared to pure hematite as it resulted in 10% and 14% reduction of the filtrate volume and filter-cake thickness, respectively. This study contributes to improve and economize the drilling cost and time by formulating a stabilized and distinguished-performance drilling mud using combined weighting agents at HP/HT.
Summon the American Television Heroes: Nationalism in NBC’s Primetime Television Broadcast of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games
Authors: MacArthur Paul J. , Smith Lauren Reichart
Published: August 2021

The National Broadcasting Company’s (NBC) primetime broadcast of the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics over 18 nights was analyzed to determine differences between the network’s treatment of U.S. and non-U.S. Olympians. Consistent with previous findings, an American athlete was the most mentioned athlete, and Americans composed the majority of the Top 20 most mentioned athletes. In contrast to previous findings, American athletes accounted for only 38.68% of the mentions, the lowest amount recorded since studies began with the 1996 Games. In addition, a sport-by-sport analysis revealed that an American was the most mentioned athlete in 8 of the 15 winter sports, and Americans received more mentions in 4 winter sports. Regarding descriptions ascribed to the Olympians, American athletes were more likely to be portrayed as succeeding due to superior concentration, composure, and commitment, while non-Americans were more likely to be portrayed as failing due to a lack of concentration, strength, and ability. Non-Americans were also more likely to be described as modest/introverted. Contextualization of these findings is provided.
Building the Transnational “Body Beautiful”—K.V. Iyer and the Circulation of Bodybuilding Practices between India and the United States
Authors: Ramachandran Aishwarya , Heffernan Conor
Published: August 2021

This article examines the career of the Indian physical culturist, K.V. Iyer, and situates his writings from the 1920s and 1930s within a transnational community between India and the United States. Iyer ran several gymnasiums, offered health advice, and sold books and mail-order courses across India and internationally. Previous studies have focused on his yogic practices and anti-colonial thinking, with less attention given to his place in the global bodybuilding community. While his writings were sometimes suffused with political rhetoric, his vision of the ideal citizen was derived from his immersion in Western scientific ideas around physiology and anatomy and his ongoing communication with American physical culturists. Studying a global health community between India and the United States, which first found expression through yoga and the Young Men Christian Association, this article positions Iyer as a leading figure in a global exchange of Indian and American ideas concerning the muscular body.
Peroxiredoxin Asp f3 Is Essential for Aspergillus fumigatus To Overcome Iron Limitation during Infection
Authors: Brantl Victor , Boysen Jana M. , Yap Annie , Golubtsov Evgeny , Ruf Dominik , Heinekamp Thorsten , Straßburger Maria , Dichtl Karl , Haas Hubertus , Hillmann Falk , Wagener Johannes
Published: August 2021

Asp f3 is one of the most abundant proteins in the pathogenic mold
Aspergillus fumigatus
. It has an enigmatic multifaceted role as a fungal allergen, virulence factor, reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger, and vaccine candidate.
Single-Cell Measurements of Fixation and Intercellular Exchange of C and N in the Filaments of the Heterocyst-Forming Cyanobacterium
Anabaena
sp. Strain PCC 7120
Authors: Nieves-Morión Mercedes , Flores Enrique , Whitehouse Martin J. , Thomen Aurélien , Foster Rachel A.
Published: August 2021

Filamentous, heterocyst-forming cyanobacteria represent a paradigm of multicellularity in the prokaryotic world. Physiological studies at the cellular level in model organisms are crucial to understand metabolic activities and qualify specific aspects related to multicellularity.
Comprehensive Analysis of Human Cytomegalovirus- and HIV-Mediated Plasma Membrane Remodeling in Macrophages
Authors: Businger Ramona , Kivimäki Saima , Simeonov Stefan , Vavouras Syrigos Georgios , Pohlmann Justus , Bolz Michael , Müller Patrick , Codrea Marius C. , Templin Corinna , Messerle Martin , Hamprecht Klaus , Schäffer Tilman E. , Nahnsen Sven , Schindler Michael
Published: August 2021

The PM is a key component that viruses have to cope with. It is a barrier for infection and egress and is critically involved in antiviral immune signaling.
Ecology and Function of the Transmissible Locus of Stress Tolerance in Escherichia coli and Plant-Associated
Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Wang Zhiying , Hu Huifeng , Zhu Tongbo , Zheng Jinshui , Gänzle Michael G. , Simpson David J.
Published: August 2021

The transmissible locus of stress tolerance (tLST) is a genomic island comprising 10 core genes that occurs in diverse
Enterobacteriaceae
and confers resistance to heat and chlorine. Experimentation described in the manuscript describes the physiological function of the core genes by characterization of the resistance of 13 single-knockout (KO) mutants and by characterization of protein and membrane oxidation in these strains after chlorine challenge.
Exercise and the Microbiome: Mechanistic Perspectives of the Impact of Exercise on the Gut-Vascular Axis
Authors: Cook Marc D. , Hogue Taylor
Published: August 2021

Given the participation of the microbiome in human health and disease, understanding the context of host-microbe interactions involved in vascular pathophysiology is now evolving through identifying microbial communities, specific taxa, and metabolic profiling which can be coupled to human health outcomes. Exercise has been used to define mechanisms related to improved vascular health, which may involve the microbiome.
Refined Quantification of Infection Bottlenecks and Pathogen Dissemination with STAMPR
Authors: Hullahalli Karthik , Pritchard Justin R. , Waldor Matthew K.
Published: August 2021

Barcoded bacteria are often employed to monitor pathogen population dynamics during infection. The accuracy of these measurements is diminished by unequal bacterial expansion rates.
Emotional distress and well-being among people with motor neurone disease (MND) and their family caregivers: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Pinto Cathryn , Geraghty Adam W A , Yardley Lucy , Dennison Laura
Published: August 2021

Objective

We aimed to get an in-depth understanding of the emotions experienced by people with motor neurone disease (MND) and their caregivers, and to explore what impacts emotional distress and well-being.

Design

Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with people with MND and caregivers.

Setting

Participants were recruited from across the UK and took part in interviews conducted either face to face, by telephone or email to accommodate for varying levels of disability.

Participants

25 people with MND and 10 caregivers took part. Participants were purposively sampled based on their MND diagnosis, symptoms and time since diagnosis.

Data analysis

Data were analysed using inductive reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Eight broad themes were generated (20 subthemes). Participants described the emotional distress of losing physical function and having a threatened future because of poor prognosis. Keeping up with constant changes in symptoms and feeling unsupported by the healthcare system added to emotional distress. Finding hope and positivity, exerting some control, being kinder to oneself and experiencing support from others were helpful strategies for emotional well-being.

Conclusion

The study provides a broad understanding of what impacts emotional distress and well-being and discusses implications for psychological interventions for people with MND and caregivers. Any communication and support provided for people with MND and their caregivers, needs to pay attention to concepts of hope, control and compassion.
Adult food choices in association with the local retail food environment and food access in resource-poor communities: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Madlala Samukelisiwe Sthokozisiwe , Hill Jillian , Kunneke Ernesta , Faber Mieke
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The local retail food environment influences dietary patterns and food choices, as suggested in the literature. The lack of access to healthy food within this environment may result in unhealthy food choices which may lead to obesity and the development of non-communicable diseases. Evidence suggests that resource-poor communities may have unhealthy food environments, therefore, preventing residents from making healthy food choices. A systematic scoping review will be conducted to provide an overview of the evidence on adult food choices in association with the local retail food environment and food access in resource-poor communities.

Methods and analysis

This protocol for the scoping review was developed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines and the framework process by Arksey and O’Malley. Observational studies, published from July 2005 to January 2021, will be searched and screened. Keywords and medical subject headings (MeSH) terms will be used to search several multidisciplinary databases. Two independent reviewers will screen identified articles using the selection criteria and extract data using the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Descriptive numerical and thematic analysis will be performed to evaluate and categorise quantitative and qualitative data.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval will not be required for the review, as data from published studies will be used. The results of this scoping review will form part of a PhD thesis that will be submitted to the University of the Western Cape, South Africa. The review findings will also be presented at conferences and published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Open science framework registration number

https://osf.io/shf93.
Effect of a common exercise programme with an individualised progression criterion based on the measurement of neuromuscular capacity versus current best practice for lower limb tendinopathies (MaLaGa trial): a protocol for a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Escriche-Escuder Adrian , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio I , Casaña Jose
Published: August 2021

Introduction

High-load resistance training has shown positive effects in pain and function in lower limb tendinopathies. However, some authors suggest that current exercise programmes produce an increase in tolerance to load and exercise in general but without fixing some existing issues in tendinopathy. This may indicate the need to include training aspects not currently taken into account in the current programmes. The main objective of this study will be to compare the effect of a common exercise protocol for the three predominant lower limb tendinopathies (Achilles, patellar and gluteal), based on an individualised control of the dose and training of specific aspects of the neuromuscular system versus the current best practice for each location.

Methods and analysis

This study will be conducted among people with mid-portion Achilles, patellar or gluteal tendinopathy. The participants allocated to the experimental group will perform a 14-week innovative common therapeutic exercise programme. Participants allocated to the control group will carry out a 14-week exercise programme based on the best current practice for each of the studied locations. The Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment questionnaire will be considered the primary outcome. Pain, central sensitisation, fear avoidance behaviour, quality of life, treatment satisfaction, lower-limb strength and function, and high-density electromyography profile will be evaluated as secondary outcomes. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, 7 weeks, after the intervention (week 14), 26 weeks and 52 weeks.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Portal de Ética de la Investigación Biomédica de Andalucía Ethics Committee (1221-N-19). All participants will be informed about the purpose and content of the study and written informed consent will be completed. The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and will be disseminated electronically and in print.

Trial registration number

NCT03853122; Pre-results.
Epidemiological factors associated with the absence of previous HIV testing among HIV-positive persons in Singapore, 2012–2017
Authors: Ang Li Wei , Toh Matthias Paul Han Sim , Boudville Irving Charles , Wong Chen Seong , Archuleta Sophia , Lee Vernon , Chow Angela , Leo Yee Sin
Published: August 2021

Objective

To assess the temporal trend and identify risk factors associated with the absence of previous HIV testing prior to their diagnosis among HIV-positive persons in Singapore.

Study design

Cross-sectional.

Setting and participants

We analysed data of HIV-positive persons infected via sexual transmission, who were notified to the National HIV Registry in 2012–2017.

Outcomes

Epidemiological factors associated with the absence of HIV testing prior to diagnosis were determined separately for two groups of HIV-positive persons: early and late stages of HIV infection at diagnosis.

Results

2188 HIV-positive persons with information on HIV testing history and CD4 cell count were included in the study. The median age at HIV diagnosis was 40 years (IQR 30–51). Nearly half (45.1%) had never been tested for HIV prior to their diagnosis. The most common reason cited for no previous HIV testing was ‘not necessary to test’ (73.7%). The proportion diagnosed at late-stage HIV infection was significantly higher among HIV-positive persons who had never been tested for HIV (63.9%) compared with those who had undergone previous HIV tests (29.0%). Common risk factors associated with no previous HIV testing in multivariable logistic regression analysis stratified by stage of HIV infection were: older age at HIV diagnosis, lower educational level, detection via medical care and HIV infection via heterosexual transmission. In the stratified analysis for persons diagnosed at early-stage of HIV infection, in addition to the four risk factors, women and those of Malay ethnicity were also less likely to have previous HIV testing prior to their diagnosis.

Conclusion

Targeted prevention efforts and strategies are needed to raise the level of awareness of HIV/AIDS and to encourage early and regular screening among the at-risk groups by making HIV testing more accessible.
Early screening for post-stroke depression, and the effect on functional outcomes, quality of life and mortality: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Selvaraj Sudhakar , Arora Teresa , Casameni Montiel Tahani , Grey Ian , Alfraih Hind , Fadipe Melissa , Suchting Robert , Savitz Sean , Sanner Beauchamp Jennifer E , Östlundh Linda
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Post-stroke depression (PSD) is a severe complication of cerebrovascular stroke affecting about one-third of stroke survivors. Moreover, PSD is associated with functional recovery and quality of life (QOL) in stroke survivors. Screening for PSD is recommended. There are, however, differences in the literature on the impact of early screening on functional outcomes. In this systematic review, we synthesise the currently available literature regarding the associations between timing and setting of PSD screening and mortality, QOL and functional outcomes in stroke survivors.

Methods and analysis

We will systematically search electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, APA PsycINFO, Web of Science, Scopus and CINAHL from inception to August 2021. Four reviewers will screen the title and abstract and full-text level records identified in the search in a blinded fashion to determine the study eligibility. Any selection disagreements between the reviewers will be resolved by the study investigator. Data extraction of eligible studies will be conducted by two reviewers using a predefined template. We will complete the quality assessment of included articles independently by two reviewers using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Eventual discrepancies will be resolved by the principal investigator.

Ethics and dissemination

Due to the nature of the study design, ethical approval is not required. The systematic review and meta-analysis findings will be published and disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal. Our results will also be disseminated through posters and presentations at appropriate scientific conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021235993.
Adverse events associated with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Forbes Nauzer , Leontiadis Grigorios I. , Vaska Marcus , Elmunzer B. Joseph , Yuan Yuhong , Bishay Kirles , Meng Zhao Wu , Iannuzzi Jordan , O"Sullivan Dylan E , Mah Brittany , Partridge Arun C R , Henderson Amanda M , Qureshi Aatif , Keswani Rajesh N , Wani Sachin , Bridges Ronald J , Heitman Steven J , Hilsden Robert J , Ruan Yibing , Brenner Darren R
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is performed to diagnose and manage conditions of the biliary and pancreatic ducts. Though effective, it is associated with common adverse events (AEs). The purpose of this study is to systematically review ERCP AE rates and report up-to-date pooled estimates.

Methods and analysis

A comprehensive electronic search will be conducted of relevant medical databases through 10 November 2020. A study team of eight data abstracters will independently determine study eligibility, assess quality and abstract data in parallel, with any two concordant entries constituting agreement and with discrepancies resolved by consensus. The primary outcome will be the pooled incidence of post-ERCP pancreatitis, with secondary outcomes including post-ERCP bleeding, cholangitis, perforation, cholecystitis, death and unplanned healthcare encounters. Secondary outcomes will also include rates of specific and overall AEs within clinically relevant subgroups determined a priori. DerSimonian and Laird random effects models will be used to perform meta-analyses of these outcomes. Sources of heterogeneity will be explored via meta-regression. Subgroup analyses based on median dates of data collection across studies will be performed to determine whether AE rates have changed over time.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required for this study as it is a planned meta-analysis of previously published data. Participant consent is similarly not required. Dissemination is planned via presentation at relevant conferences in addition to publication in peer-reviewed journals.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020220221.
Do school closures and school reopenings affect community transmission of COVID-19? A systematic review of observational studies
Authors: Walsh Sebastian , Chowdhury Avirup , Braithwaite Vickie , Russell Simon , Birch Jack Michael , Ward Joseph L , Waddington Claire , Brayne Carol , Bonell Chris , Viner Russell M , Mytton Oliver T
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To systematically reivew the observational evidence of the effect of school closures and school reopenings on SARS-CoV-2 community transmission.

Setting

Schools (including early years settings, primary schools and secondary schools).

Intervention

School closures and reopenings.

Outcome measure

Community transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (including any measure of community infections rate, hospital admissions or mortality attributed to COVID-19).

Methods

On 7 January 2021, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, the WHO Global COVID-19 Research Database, ERIC, the British Education Index, the Australian Education Index and Google, searching title and abstracts for terms related to SARS-CoV-2 AND terms related to schools or non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). We used the Cochrane Risk of Bias In Non-randomised Studies of Interventions tool to evaluate bias.

Results

We identified 7474 articles, of which 40 were included, with data from 150 countries. Of these, 32 studies assessed school closures and 11 examined reopenings. There was substantial heterogeneity between school closure studies, with half of the studies at lower risk of bias reporting reduced community transmission by up to 60% and half reporting null findings. The majority (n=3 out of 4) of school reopening studies at lower risk of bias reported no associated increases in transmission.

Conclusions

School closure studies were at risk of confounding and collinearity from other non-pharmacological interventions implemented around the same time as school closures, and the effectiveness of closures remains uncertain. School reopenings, in areas of low transmission and with appropriate mitigation measures, were generally not accompanied by increasing community transmission. With such varied evidence on effectiveness, and the harmful effects, policymakers should take a measured approach before implementing school closures; and should look to reopen schools in times of low transmission, with appropriate mitigation measures.
A Survey of implementation status of child nutrition surveillance systems, registry systems and information systems: a scoping literature review protocol
Authors: Sadeghi Malihe , Langarizadeh Mostafa , Olang Beheshteh , Seddighi Hamed , Sheikhtaheri Abbas
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Child malnutrition in all forms is known globally as the leading cause of poor health. Planning and solving this challenge require sources that collect data accurately. Nutrition surveillance systems (NSS), nutrition registry systems (NRS) and nutrition information systems (NIS) collect and analyse data on nutrition status. Unfortunately, these systems only exist in a few countries. The methods that these systems use significantly differ and their effectiveness is also scarcely researched. This scoping literature review aimed to conduct a survey on NSS, NRS and NIS that collect data on children’s nutrition at national and international levels, along with their attributes.

Methods and analysis

The methods and analyses of this scoping review follow the Arksey and O’Malley’s methodology. This scoping literature review will be conducted in five stages based on this method. (1) The main research question and subquestions are identified. (2) Relevant studies are extracted. In this step, we will search electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus and ISI Web of Science. A manual search will also be performed in Google Scholar, grey literature, and the websites of organisations such as WHO, UNICEF, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Health Service, International Food Policy Research Institute, Food and Agriculture Organization, Food and Nutrition Technical Assistance, United Nations World Food Programme, and United Nations System Standing Committee on Nutrition. (3) Extracted studies are separately reviewed by two reviewers based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and eligible studies are then selected. A third reviewer resolves disagreements. (4) A checklist is developed to extract the features. Data of included systems are separately extracted and entered into a checklist by two reviewers. A third reviewer then resolves any disagreement. (5) Data are summarised and analysed and are presented in tables and figures.

Discussion

This scoping literature review provides strong evidence of the status of systems that collect data on the status of child nutrition. This evidence can help select best practices which can be applied to develop future systems. It can also be a positive step towards achieving an integrated system.
Respiratory epithelial cell responses to SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19
Authors: Bridges James P , Vladar Eszter K , Huang Hua , Mason Robert J
Published: August 2021

COVID-19 has different clinical stages, and effective therapy depends on the location and extent of the infection. The purpose of this review is to provide a background for understanding the progression of the disease throughout the pulmonary epithelium and discuss therapeutic options. The prime sites for infection that will be contrasted in this review are the conducting airways and the gas exchange portions of the lung. These two sites are characterised by distinct cellular composition and innate immune responses, which suggests the use of distinct therapeutic agents. In the nose, ciliated cells are the primary target cells for SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, replication and release. Infected cells shed their cilia, which disables mucociliary clearance. Evidence further points to a suppressed or incompletely activated innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection in the upper airways. Asymptomatic individuals can still have a productive viral infection and infect others. In the gas exchange portion of the lung, the alveolar type II epithelial cell is the main target cell type. Cell death and marked innate immune response during infection likely contribute to alveolar damage and resultant acute respiratory distress syndrome. Alveolar infection can precipitate a hyperinflammatory state, which is the target of many therapies in severe COVID-19. Disease resolution in the lung is variable and may include scaring and long-term sequalae because the alveolar type II cells are also progenitor cells for the alveolar epithelium.
Effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on energy expenditure and postprandial metabolism in healthy men
Authors: Chen Yung-Chih , Davies Russell G. , Hengist Aaron , Carroll Harriet A. , Perkin Oliver J. , Betts James A. , Thompson Dylan
Published: August 2021

It is unclear whether neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) has meaningful metabolic effects when users have the opportunity to self-select the intensity to one that can be comfortably tolerated. Nine healthy men aged 28 ± 9 y (mean ± SD) with a body mass index 22.3 ± 2.3 kg/m2 completed 3 trials involving a 2-h oral glucose tolerance test whilst, in a randomised counterbalanced order, (1) sitting motionless (SIT), (2) standing motionless (STAND); and (3) sitting motionless with NMES of quadriceps and calves at a self-selected tolerable intensity. The mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) total energy expenditure was greater in the NMES trial (221 [180–262] kcal/2 h) and STAND trial (178 [164–191] kcal/2 h) than during SIT (159 [150–167] kcal/2 h) (both, p < 0.05). This was primarily driven by an increase in carbohydrate oxidation in the NMES and STAND trials compared with the SIT trial (p < 0.05). Postprandial insulin iAUC was lower in both NMES and STAND compared with SIT (16.4 [7.7–25.1], 17 [7–27] and 22.6 [10.8–34.4] nmol·120 min/L, respectively; both, p < 0.05). Compared with sitting, both NMES and STAND increased energy expenditure and whole-body carbohydrate oxidation and reduced postprandial insulin concentrations in healthy men, with more pronounced effects seen with NMES. Self-selected NMES is a potential strategy for improving metabolic health. This trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04389736).

Novelty: NMES at a comfortable intensity enhances energy expenditure and carbohydrate oxidation, and reduces postprandial insulinemia. Thus, self-selected NMES represents a potential strategy to improve metabolic health.
Phase sensitivity of an $\operatorname{SU}(1,1)$ interferometer via product detection
Authors: Wang Qingle , Fang Yami , Ma Xiaoping , Li Dong
Published: August 2021

We theoretically analyze the phase sensitivity of an $\operatorname{SU}(1,1)$
SU
(
1
,
1
)
interferometer with various input states by product detection in this paper. This interferometer consists of two parametric amplifiers that play the role of beam splitters in a traditional Mach–Zehnder interferometer. The product of the amplitude quadrature of one output mode and the momentum quadrature of the other output mode is measured via balanced homodyne detection. We show that product detection has the same phase sensitivity as parity detection for most cases, and it is even better in the case with two coherent states at the input ports. The phase sensitivity is also compared with the Heisenberg limit and the quantum Cramér–Rao bound of the $\operatorname{SU}(1,1)$
SU
(
1
,
1
)
interferometer. This detection scheme can be easily implemented with current homodyne technology, which makes it highly feasible. It can be widely applied in the field of quantum metrology.
Air quality analysis of Sichuan province based on complex network and CSP algorithm
Authors: Huang Xiao Li , Hu Si Yu , Chen Jing Xian , Feng Wan Qi
Published: August 2021

The air quality is directly related to people’s lives. This paper selects air quality data of Sichuan Province as the research object, and explores the inherent characteristics of air quality from the perspective of complex network theory. First, based on the complexity of network topology and nodes, a community detection algorithm which combines the clustering idea with principal component analysis (PCA) algorithm and self-organization competitive neural network (SOM) is designed (CSP). Compared with the classic community detection algorithm, the result proves that the CSP algorithm can accurately dig out a better community structure. Second, based on the strong correlation distance and strong correlation coefficient of the air quality network, the Sichuan Air Quality Complex Network (SCCN) was constructed. The SCCN is divided into five communities using the CSP algorithm. Combining the characteristics of each community and the Hurst coefficient, it is found that the air quality inside the community has long-term memory. Finally, based on the idea of time-dependent cross-correlation, this paper analyzes the cross-correlation of AQI time series of different stations in each community, constructs a directed air quality cross-correlation network combined with complex network theory, and locates the important pollution sources in each region of Sichuan Province according to the topological structure of the network. The work of this paper can provide the corresponding theoretical support and guidance for the current environmental pollution control.
QCD beyond diagrams
Authors: Creutz Michael
Published: August 2021

Quantum chromodynamics (QCD), the theory of the strong interactions, involves quarks interacting with non-Abelian gluon fields. This theory has many features that are difficult to impossible to see in conventional diagrammatic perturbation theory. This includes quark confinement, mass generation and chiral symmetry breaking. This paper is a colloquium level overview of the framework for understanding how these effects come about.
Gauge-field-induced torsion and cosmic inflation
Authors: Kasem Ammar , Khalil Shaaban
Published: August 2021

In this paper, inflation in the framework of Einstein–Cartan theory is revisited. Einstein–Cartan theory is a natural extension of the General Relativity with nonvanishing torsion. The connection on Riemann–Cartan space–time is only compatible with the cosmological principal for a particular form of torsion. We also show this form to be compatible with gauge invariance principle for non-Abelian and Abelian gauge fields under a certain deviced coupling procedure. We adopt an Abelian gauge field in the form of “cosmic triad”. The dynamical field equations are obtained and shown to sustain cosmic inflation with a large number of e-folds. We emphasize that at the end of inflation, torsion vanishes and the theory of Einstein–Cartan reduces to the General Relativity with the usual FRW geometry.
Modeling the Factors that Influence Ghanaian Entrepreneurs to Adopt e-Commerce
Authors: Pobee Frederick
Published: August 2021

This study investigated the factors that influence Ghanaian entrepreneurs to adopt e-commerce. Cross-sectional data was gathered from 520 entrepreneurs in the most populous and industrious regions in Ghana. The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) was employed to effectively understand the unexplored phenomenon of e-commerce adoption among Ghanaian entrepreneurs. Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the hypothesized relationships. The findings indicate that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence (SI) positively and significantly influenced the behavioral intention (BI) to adopt e-commerce. Facilitating conditions (FC) and BI had a significant positive relationship with the adoption of e-commerce.
Study on the Seepage Force-Induced Stress and Poroelastic Stress by Flow Through Porous Media Around a Vertical Wellbore
Authors: Wang Haiyang , Zhou Desheng , Gao Qian , Fan Xin , Xu Jinze , Liu Shun
Published: August 2021

Fluid flowing through reservoir pores not only generates poroelastic stress but also exerts seepage force on rock skeleton. However, the mechanism of seepage force is not clear. Traditional methods of analyzing wellbore stability and hydraulic fracture initiation are mainly focused on the poroelastic stress without the effects of seepage force. Based on the linear elasticity and consolidation theory, this paper analyzed the mechanism of seepage force and poroelastic stress, and presented an analytical solution for seepage force-induced stress around a vertical wellbore. It also introduced how to calculate poroelastic stress by exerting hypothetical body force and surface force. Through comparison and superposition of stress fields, this paper studied the change characteristics of the poroelastic and seepage force-induced stress under different borehole pressures and the effects of seepage force on the wellbore tensile failure. Numerical simulation results show that when fluid flows through the rock, using traditional models without considering, the effect of seepage force to calculate the borehole pressure-induced stress will result in lower calculation results. Compared with the traditional model, seepage force-induced circumferential tensile stress is larger, and the seepage force significantly reduces the formation breakdown pressure. Rocks near the borehole wall with lower permeability and larger Poisson’s ratio have a greater action of seepage force. When fluid flows through the reservoir, the effects of seepage forces cannot be ignored in the analysis of hydraulic fracturing and wellbore stability.
Nonlinear Static and Dynamic Buckling Analysis of Imperfect Stiffened Double-Layer FGP Shallow Spherical Shells Embedded Within Elastic Foundations
Authors: Foroutan Kamran , Ahmadi Habib
Published: August 2021

In this work, an analytical method is presented to analyze the nonlinear static and dynamic buckling of imperfect stiffened double-layer functionally graded porous (FGP) shallow shells subjected to external pressure. The shallow spherical shell consists of two layers, where upper layer of shell is nonporous functionally graded (FG) material and the lower layer of shell is FG porous. This spherical shell is resting on elastic foundations, which consist of two-term Winkler–Pasternak’s model. Two FG porous distributions types consisting of symmetric porosity distribution (SPD) and nonsymmetric porosity distribution (NSPD) are investigated. The porous materials are assumed to vary through the thickness direction based on the assumption of a common mechanical feature of the open-cell foam. Utilizing the classical theory of shells considering geometrical nonlinearity based on von Kármán–Donnell relations and Hooke’s law, the governing equations of stiffened double-layer FG porous spherical shells are extracted. To discretize the partial differential equation of shell and obtaining the system equations of motion, the Galerkin method is applied. Regarding the discretized equation of motion, the explicit expressions for dynamic and static critical buckling load are determined. To investigate the dynamic behavior, the equation of motion is solved via a numerical method named Runge–Kutta approach, and then a presented approach by Budiansky–Roth is employed to obtain a critical load for the nonlinear dynamic buckling. The influence of various porosity distributions and coefficients of the shallow shell, elastic foundations, and geometrical characteristics on the nonlinear static and dynamic buckling analysis of imperfect stiffened double-layer FG porous shallow shells is examined.
Conversations with Search Engines: SERP-based Conversational Response Generation
Authors: Ren Pengjie , Chen Zhumin , Ren Zhaochun , Kanoulas Evangelos , Monz Christof , De Rijke Maarten
Published: August 2021

In this article, we address the problem of answering complex information needs by conducting
conversations with search engines
, in the sense that users can express their queries in natural language and directly receive the information they need from a short system response in a conversational manner. Recently, there have been some attempts towards a similar goal, e.g., studies on
Conversational Agent
s (CAs) and
Conversational Search
(CS). However, they either do not address complex information needs in search scenarios or they are limited to the development of conceptual frameworks and/or laboratory-based user studies.

We pursue two goals in this article:

(1)

the creation of a suitable dataset, the
Search as a Conversation
(SaaC) dataset, for the development of pipelines for conversations with search engines, and

(2)

the development of a state-of-the-art pipeline for conversations with search engines,
Conversations with Search Engines
(CaSE), using this dataset.

SaaC is built based on a multi-turn conversational search dataset, where we further employ workers from a crowdsourcing platform to summarize each relevant passage into a short, conversational response. CaSE enhances the state-of-the-art by introducing a supporting token identification module and a prior-aware pointer generator, which enables us to generate more accurate responses.

We carry out experiments to show that CaSE is able to outperform strong baselines. We also conduct extensive analyses on the SaaC dataset to show where there is room for further improvement beyond CaSE. Finally, we release the SaaC dataset and the code for CaSE and all models used for comparison to facilitate future research on this topic.
Theories of Conversation for Conversational IR
Authors: Thomas Paul , Czerwinksi Mary , Mcduff Daniel , Craswell Nick
Published: August 2021

Conversational information retrieval is a relatively new and fast-developing research area, but conversation itself has been well studied for decades. Researchers have analysed linguistic phenomena such as structure and semantics but also paralinguistic features such as tone, body language, and even the physiological states of interlocutors. We tend to treat computers as social agents—especially if they have some humanlike features in their design—and so work from human-to-human conversation is highly relevant to how we think about the design of human-to-computer applications. In this article, we summarise some salient past work, focusing on social norms; structures; and affect, prosody, and style. We examine social communication theories briefly as a review to see what we have learned about how humans interact with each other and how that might pertain to agents and robots. We also discuss some implications for research and design of conversational IR systems.
MyrrorBot
: A Digital Assistant Based on Holistic User Models for Personalized Access to Online Services
Authors: Musto Cataldo , Narducci Fedelucio , Polignano Marco , De Gemmis Marco , Lops Pasquale , Semeraro Giovanni
Published: August 2021

In this article, we present
MyrrorBot
, a
personal digital assistant
implementing a natural language interface that allows the users to: (i) access online services, such as
music, video, news,
and
food recommendation
s, in a
personalized
way, by exploiting a strategy for implicit user modeling called
holistic user profiling
; (ii) query their own user models, to inspect the features encoded in their profiles and to increase their awareness of the personalization process.

Basically, the system allows the users to formulate
natural language
requests related to their information needs. Such needs are roughly classified in two groups:
quantified self-related
needs (e.g.,
Did I sleep enough? Am I extrovert?
) and
personalized access
to online services (e.g.,
Play a song I like
). The
intent recognition
strategy implemented in the platform automatically identifies the intent expressed by the user and forwards the request to specific services and modules that generate an appropriate answer that fulfills the query.

In the experimental evaluation, we evaluated both
qualitative
(users’ acceptance of the system, usability) as well as
quantitative
(time required to complete basic tasks, effectiveness of the personalization strategy) aspects of the system, and the results showed that
MyrrorBot
can improve the way people access online services and applications. This leads to a more effective interaction and paves the way for further development of our system.