bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manifestation of Majorana modes overlap in the Aharonov–Bohm effect
Authors: Aksenov S V
Published: March 2022

One of the key features of the Majorana bound states emerging in topological superconducting (SC) wires is increasing oscillations of their energy under the growth of magnetic field or chemical potential due to concomitant enhancement of hybridization of the Majorana mode wave functions initially localized at the opposite edges of the structure. In this study we found that the other consequence of it is a shift of Aharonov–Bohm (AB) oscillations of linear-response conductance in an interference device where two ends of the SC wire connected with a normal contact via non-SC wires (arms). In addition, it is accompanied by an oscillation period doubling. The numerical calculations for the spinful system are supported by the analytical results for different spinless models allowing to track the conductance evolution as the hybridization of the Majorana modes increases. It is shown that since the coupling between the different arms and normal contact is implemented only via the different-type Majoranas the AB oscillations acquire a fundamental π/2 shift in comparison with the effect for an analogous system of zero-energy quantum dots.
Comment on ‘Two-dimensional carbon nitride C6N nanosheet with egg-comb-like structure and electronic properties of a semimetal [2021, Nanotechnology

32, 215702]’
Authors: Mortazavi Bohayra , Neek-Amal Mehdi
Published: March 2022

Recently, Bafekry et al (2021 Nanotechnology
32 215702) predicted a novel two-dimensional carbon nitride with an egg-comb-like structure and a C6N stoichiometry. Their density functional theory results reveal the thermal stability of this structure at 300 K. They also examined the thermoelectric properties of this monolayer up to 500 K. By adopting the same methodology employed in the original work by Bafekry et al (2021 Nanotechnology
32 215702), we show that this monolayer is thermally unstable and cannot be employed for practical applications. Aforementioned theoretical work also includes inaccuracies in the evaluation of thermoelectric properties of the C6N monolayer, as they did not consider the contribution of the lattice thermal conductivity.
Unsighted ghost imaging for objects completely hidden inside turbid media
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Chen Hui
Published: March 2022

Ghost imaging (GI) is an unconventional imaging method that retrieves the image of an object by correlating a series of known illumination patterns with the total reflected (or transmitted) intensity. However, the patterns on the object are required to be known, which highly limits its application scenarios, especially in a strong scattering environment. We here propose a scheme that removes this basic requirement, and enables GI to non-invasively image objects through turbid media. As experimental proof, we project a set of patterns towards an object hidden inside turbid media that make the patterns falling on the object completely unknown. The spatial information of both the object and the illumination is lost. We prove that, when the source is within a memory-effect angular range of the turbid medium, the spatial frequency of the object is preserved in the correlation of GI, which can be used for image reconstruction. This scheme also circumvents the major challenge in non-invasive imaging through turbid media: the object must be small enough to fit in a field-of-view which is usually extremely small in realistic scenarios. Our method removes this limitation and is an important step towards realistic applications.
Transfers, Diversification and Household Risk Strategies: Can Productive Safety Nets Help Households Manage Climatic Variability?
Authors: Macours Karen , Premand Patrick , Vakis Renos
Published: March 2022

We present experimental evidence on a programme aimed at improving households' risk management through income diversification. The intervention targeted rural Nicaraguan households exposed to weather variability and combined a one-year conditional cash transfer with vocational training or a productive investment grant. Both complementary interventions provided protection against weather shocks two years after the programme ended. Households that received the productive investment grant also had higher average consumption levels. The complementary interventions facilitated income smoothing and diversification of economic activities. Relaxing capital constraints induced investments in non-agricultural businesses, while relaxing skills constraints increased wage work and migration in response to shocks.
Applied phenomics and genomics for improving barley yellow dwarf resistance in winter wheat
Authors: Silva Paula , Evers Byron , Kieffaber Alexandria , Wang Xu , Brown Richard , Gao Liangliang , Fritz Allan , Crain Jared , Poland Jesse
Published: March 2022

Barley yellow dwarf is one of the major viral diseases of cereals. Phenotyping barley yellow dwarf in wheat is extremely challenging due to similarities to other biotic and abiotic stresses. Breeding for resistance is additionally challenging as the wheat primary germplasm pool lacks genetic resistance, with most of the few resistance genes named to date originating from a wild relative species. The objectives of this study were to (1) evaluate the use of high-throughput phenotyping to improve barley yellow dwarf assessment; (2) identify genomic regions associated with barley yellow dwarf resistance; and (3) evaluate the ability of genomic selection models to predict barley yellow dwarf resistance. Up to 107 wheat lines were phenotyped during each of 5 field seasons under both insecticide treated and untreated plots. Across all seasons, barley yellow dwarf severity was lower within the insecticide treatment along with increased plant height and grain yield compared with untreated entries. Only 9.2% of the lines were positive for the presence of the translocated segment carrying the resistance gene Bdv2. Despite the low frequency, this region was identified through association mapping. Furthermore, we mapped a potentially novel genomic region for barley yellow dwarf resistance on chromosome 5AS. Given the variable heritability of the trait (0.211–0.806), we obtained a predictive ability for barley yellow dwarf severity ranging between 0.06 and 0.26. Including the presence or absence of Bdv2 as a covariate in the genomic selection models had a large effect for predicting barley yellow dwarf but almost no effect for other observed traits. This study was the first attempt to characterize barley yellow dwarf using field-high-throughput phenotyping and apply genomic selection to predict disease severity. These methods have the potential to improve barley yellow dwarf characterization, additionally identifying new sources of resistance will be crucial for delivering barley yellow dwarf resistant germplasm.
A note on functional relations in a certain class of implicative expansions of FDE related to Brady’s 4-valued logic BN4
Authors: Robles Gemma , Méndez José M
Published: March 2022

The logic E4 is related to Brady’s BN4 in a similar way to which Anderson and Belnap’s logic of entailment E is related to their logic of the relevant implication R. In ‘A companion to Brady’s 4-valued relevant logic: the 4-valued logic of entailment E4’, quoted in this paper, three alternatives to BN4 and another three to E4 are summarily introduced in a couple of pages as the only alternatives containing Routley and Meyer’s basic logic B, provided some conditions are fulfilled. The aim of this note is to prove (i) BN4 and its three alternatives are the same logic up to some point, since they are functionally equivalent to each other, as it is the case with E4 and its three alternatives, which are also functionally equivalent to each other; (ii) to some extent, E4 is superior to BN4, since the latter is functionally included in the former, but not conversely.
Better Understanding the Timing Of Androgen Deprivation Trial Outcomes: Impacts of Prior Androgen Deprivation Therapy
Authors: Stensland Kristian D , Devasia Theresa , Caram Megan E V , Chapman Christina , Zaslavsky Alexander , Morgan Todd M , Hollenbeck Brent K , Sparks Jordan B , Burns Jennifer , Vedapudi Varsha , Duchesne Gillian M , Tsodikov Alexander , Skolarus Ted A
Published: March 2022

Background

The Timing Of Androgen Deprivation (TOAD) trial found an overall survival benefit for immediate vs delayed androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate-specific antigen (PSA)–relapsed or noncurable prostate cancer. However, broad eligibility criteria allowed entry of a heterogeneous participant group, including those with prior ADT exposure, raising concerns about subsequent androgen sensitivity. For these reasons, we completed previously specified subgroup analyses to assess if prior ADT was associated with ADT timing efficacy after PSA relapse.

Methods

We examined TOAD trial patient-level data for participants with PSA relapse after local therapy. We performed Kaplan-Meier analyses for overall survival stratified by prior ADT and randomized treatment arm (immediate or delayed ADT). We compared group characteristics using Mann-Whitney U and Fisher exact tests. All hypothesis tests were 2-sided.

Results

We identified 261 patients with PSA relapse, 125 of whom received prior ADT. Patients with prior ADT had higher PSA at presentation (12.1 vs 9.0 ng/mL; P < .001), more cT3 disease (38.4% vs 25.0%; P = .007), and more likely received radiotherapy as local treatment (80.0% vs 47.8%; P < .001) but were otherwise similar to patients without prior ADT exposure. Within this prior ADT group, those who received immediate ADT (n = 56) had improved overall survival compared with those who received delayed ADT (n = 69; P = .02). This benefit was not observed in the group with no prior ADT (P = .98).

Conclusions

The survival benefit demonstrated in the TOAD trial may be driven by patients who received ADT prior to trial entry. We provide possible explanations for this finding with implications for treatment of PSA-relapsed prostate cancer and future study planning.
Beyond the binary debates in migration: Experiences of Fulani nomads, sedentary Fulani, and autochthone farmers in Agogo, Ghana
Authors: Setrana Mary Boatemaa , Kyei Justice Richard Kwabena Owusu , Nyarko Daniel
Published: March 2022

The contestations over land and pasture redefine broad complex boundaries between three groups: autochthone farmers of Agogo, Fulani sedentary herders, and Fulani nomads. The broad boundaries have emerged into sub-categories between the sedentary Fulani and Fulani nomads who belong to the same ethnic group of Fulbe in West Africa. With growing population pressures and shrinking resources, the competition for land and livelihoods has fuelled tensions among these groups, feeding a cycle of recurring violence. Extended qualitative fieldwork conducted in six communities in the forest transitional zone of Ghana reveals how these tensions are connected to emerging forms of self-categorisation and othering: developing positive attitudes of in-groups, while viewing others less favourably. This has produced a triadic relationship with varied claims to authority, space, and residential superiority. The indigenous farmers claim ownership of the land and demand the evacuation of both sedentary Fulani and Fulani nomads from the area. The sedentary Fulani claim they are not the troublemakers but that they are blamed for the encroachment and destruction of farms. The Fulani nomads resist assertions that they are dangerous and unapproachable, but intentionally remain aloof and outside, at the margins of Ghana’s legal authority.
An investigation of the kinetics and thermodynamics of NaCl nucleation through composite clusters
Authors: Bulutoglu Pelin S , Wang Shiyan , Boukerche Moussa , Nere Nandkishor K , Corti David S , Ramkrishna Doraiswami
Published: March 2022

Having a good understanding of nucleation is critical for the control of many important processes, such as polymorph selection during crystallization. However, a complete picture of the molecular-level mechanisms of nucleation remains elusive. In this work, we take an in-depth look at the NaCl homogeneous nucleation mechanism through thermodynamics. Distinguished from the classical nucleation theory, we calculate the free energy of nucleation as a function of two nucleus size coordinates: crystalline and amorphous cluster sizes. The free energy surface reveals a thermodynamic preference for a nonclassical mechanism of nucleation through a composite cluster, where the crystalline nucleus is surrounded by an amorphous layer. The thickness of the amorphous layer increases with an increase in supersaturation. The computed free energy landscape agrees well with the composite cluster-free energy model, through which phase specific thermodynamic properties are evaluated. As the supersaturation increases, there is a change in stability of the amorphous phase relative to the solution phase, resulting in a change from one-step to two-step mechanism, seen clearly from the free energy profile along the minimum free energy path crossing the transition curve. By obtaining phase-specific diffusion coefficients, we construct the full mesoscopic model and present a clear roadmap for NaCl nucleation.
Proterozoic supercontinent break-up as a driver for oxygenation events and subsequent carbon isotope excursions
Authors: Eguchi James , Diamond Charles W , Lyons Timothy W
Published: March 2022

Oxygen and carbon are 2 elements critical for life on Earth. Earth's most dramatic oxygenation events and carbon isotope excursions (CIE) occurred during the Proterozoic, including the Paleoproterozoic Great Oxidation Event and the associated Lomagundi CIE, the Neoproterozoic Oxygenation event, and the Shuram negative CIE during the late Neoproterozoic. A specific pattern of a long-lived positive CIE followed by a negative CIE is observed in association with oxygenation events during the Paleo- and Neo-proterozoic. We present results from a carbon cycle model designed to couple the surface and interior cycling of carbon that reproduce this pattern. The model assumes organic carbon resides in the mantle longer than carbonate, leading to systematic temporal variations in the δ13C of volcanic CO2 emissions. When the model is perturbed by periods of enhanced continental weathering, increased amounts of carbonate and organic carbon are buried. Increased deposition of organic carbon allows O2 accumulation, while positive CIEs are driven by rapid release of subducted carbonate-derived CO2 at arcs. The subsequent negative CIEs are driven by the delayed release of organic C-derived CO2 at ocean islands. Our model reproduces the sequences observed in the Paleo- and Neo-proterozoic, that is oxygenation accompanied by a positive CIE followed by a negative CIE. Periods of enhanced weathering correspond temporally to supercontinent break-up, suggesting an important connection between global tectonics and the evolution of oxygen and carbon on Earth.
Color confinement and restoration of residual local gauge symmetries
Authors: Kondo Kei-Ichi , Fukushima Naoki
Published: March 2022

All colored particles including dynamical quarks and gluons are confined if the color confinement criterion proposed by Kugo and Ojima is satisfied. The criterion was obtained under a gauge fixing of the Lorenz type. However, it was pointed out that the Kugo–Ojima criterion breaks down for the maximal Abelian gauge, which is quite strange in view of the fact that quark confinement has been verified according to the dual superconductivity caused by magnetic monopole condensations. In order to make a bridge between Kugo–Ojima color confinement and the dual superconductor picture for quark confinement, we investigate a generalization of the color confinement criterion to obtain a unified picture for confinement. We show that the restoration of the residual local gauge symmetry which was shown in the Lorenz gauge by Hata to be equivalent to the Kugo–Ojima criterion indeed occurs in the maximal Abelian gauge for the SU(N) Yang–Mills theory in two-, three-, and four-dimensional Euclidean spacetime once the singular topological configurations of gauge fields are taken into account. This result indicates that the color confinement phase is a disordered phase caused by non-trivial topological configurations irrespective of the gauge choice. As a by-product, we show that the compact U(1) gauge theory can have a disordered confinement phase, while the non-compact U(1) gauge theory has a deconfined Coulomb phase.
Effects of select copper sources at minimum supplementation levels on nutrient content, off-colors, and blemishes in canned pet food
Authors: Dainton Amanda N , Tomlinson Dana J , Aldrich Charles Gregory
Published: March 2022

In the previous research, super-fortification with copper decreased vitamin E content and darkened canned pet food, which prevented the analysis of black blemishes reported in commercial products. The pet food industry has linked these blemishes, which may be concerning to pet owners, to copper supplementation. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of different copper sources included at minimum recommended levels on nutrient content, color, and blemishes in canned pet food. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 + 1 factorial, with 2 levels of copper supplementation [6 and 12 mg/kg dry matter (DM)], 3 copper sources (CG = copper glutamate, CA = copper amino acid complex, and CS = copper sulfate), and a control with no added copper (NC). Diets were analyzed for macronutrients (moisture, crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and ash) and micronutrients (calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, copper, manganese, zinc, and vitamin E). Color was quantified with a CIELAB color space colorimeter wherein L* values closer to 100 represented lighter products and more positive a* and b* values indicated redder and yellower products, respectively. Blemishes were enumerated and their surface area quantified with ImageJ software. Data were analyzed as a general linear mixed model with the fixed effect of treatment and the random effect of production day. P-values less than 0.05 were considered significant. The 12 mg/kg DM treatments (average 14.19 mg/kg DM) contained the highest (P < 0.05) level of copper, followed by 6 mg/kg DM treatments (average 7.59 mg/kg DM) and then NC (0.00 mg/kg DM). Addition of copper decreased (P < 0.05) vitamin E content, except for NC and CS12 which were similar (P > 0.05; average 111.89 mg/kg DM). Lightness (average L* 63.66) was not affected (P > 0.05) by the treatments. Adding copper decreased (P < 0.05) redness, with higher (P < 0.05) a* values for CG6 (9.55) vs. CA6 and CS6 (average 8.50). Yellowness also decreased with the addition of copper, except for CG6 which was similar (P > 0.05) to NC (average 18.70). However, CG6 and CG12 (average 4.05 blemishes/slice of food) contained more (P < 0.05) blemishes than CA6, CS6, and CS12 (average 0.97 blemishes/slice of food). Minimal levels of supplemental copper from CG may enhance overall color preservation but could increase blemish occurrence. No disadvantage was observed for CA vs. CS, indicating that CA could be exchanged for CS in formulations.
Farmers' Knowledge and Farm-Level Management Practices of Coconut Pests in Ghana: Assessment Based on Gender Differences
Authors: Tettey Elizabeth , Aidoo Owusu Fordjour , Arhin Linda , Guimapi Ritter A. , Ablormeti Fred Kormla , Dampare Frank , Ampadu-Ameyaw Richard , Cobbah Jeffet Ekow , Afram Yayra , Kwarteng Frank , Yankey Ndede
Published: March 2022

Coconut production is significantly constrained by a wide variety of pests. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that management of these pests is influenced by gender differences. Therefore, there was a need to assess farmers' knowledge about coconut pests, farm-level pest management strategies, and institutions offering training to farmers to develop an ecologically sound management strategy. To achieve this research need, we surveyed six coconut-growing districts, three each from the Western and Central Regions of Ghana, using face-to-face interviews, discussions, and direct observations. In addition, a multistage sampling technique was used to sample the coconut farmers. The sample population for each town was determined using a proportional to population size approach. The sample population was randomly drawn from each town/village using a sampling frame based on the agricultural sector records. The results showed that a majority of the farmers mentioned Oryctes monoceros as the most important coconut pest. Significantly more females than males mentioned weaver birds in their plantations ( P = 0.035). The number of women who did not mention any of the pests was significantly higher than that of men ( P = 0.007). There was a significant difference between male and female farmers who used indigenous knowledge (i.e., knowledge accumulated by an indigenous [local] population over generations of living in a certain area) ( P = 0.018) for pest management. However, pest management strategies did not vary in the Central Region. Our results showed a significant difference between male and female farmers who did not use any of the management strategies, suggesting that future studies and training should consider gender in developing sustainable pest management strategies for the pests.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Micropolar mechanics of product fractal media
Authors: Li Jun , Ostoja-Starzewski Martin
Published: March 2022

Motivated by the abundance of fractals in the natural world, this paper further develops continuum-type models for product-like fractals. The theory is based on a version of the non-integer dimensional space approach, in which global balance laws written for fractal media are expressed in terms of conventional (integer-order) integrals. Key relations of calculus for finite strain kinematics of fractal media are obtained, especially clarifying the fractal Jacobian and the fractal Reynolds transport theorem. The local forms are then written in terms of partial differential equations with derivatives of integer order. Hence, fractal versions of local continuity, linear and angular momenta and energy balance are derived. The angular momentum balance implies that the approximating continuum is micropolar rather than classical. Accordingly, the Cauchy postulate, lemma and theorem for Cauchy force-stress and couple-stress are re-formulated. The corresponding partial differential equations for finite as well as infinitesimal elasticity are given explicitly in both the displacement and stress formulations. The invariance of the stress field in planar fractal elastic media is shown to hold just like the one in planar micropolar elasticity.
Climate warming changes synchrony of plants and pollinators
Authors: Freimuth Jonas , Bossdorf Oliver , Scheepens J. F. , Willems Franziska M.
Published: March 2022

Climate warming changes the phenology of many species. When interacting organisms respond differently, climate change may disrupt their interactions and affect the stability of ecosystems. Here, we used global biodiversity facility occurrence records to examine phenology trends in plants and their associated insect pollinators in Germany since the 1980s. We found strong phenological advances in plants but differences in the extent of shifts among pollinator groups. The temporal trends in plant and insect phenologies were generally associated with interannual temperature variation and thus probably driven by climate change. When examining the synchrony of species-level plant–pollinator interactions, their temporal trends differed among pollinator groups. Overall, plant–pollinator interactions become more synchronized, mainly because the phenology of plants, which historically lagged behind that of the pollinators, responded more strongly to climate change. However, if the observed trends continue, many interactions may become more asynchronous again in the future. Our study suggests that climate change affects the phenologies of both plants and insects and that it also influences the synchrony of plant–pollinator interactions.
Common endosymbionts affect host fitness and sex allocation via egg size provisioning
Authors: Katlav Alihan , Cook James M. , Riegler Markus
Published: March 2022

It is hard to overemphasize the importance of endosymbionts in arthropod biology, ecology and evolution. Some endosymbionts can complement host metabolic function or provide defence against pathogens; others, such as ubiquitousWolbachiaandCardinium, have evolved strategies to manipulate host reproduction. A common reproductive manipulation strategy is cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) between differently infected individuals which can result in female mortality or male development of fertilized eggs in haplodiploid hosts. Recently, an additional role of endosymbionts has been recognized in the modification of sex allocation in sexually reproducing haplodiploids. This was theoretically expected due to the maternal inheritance of endosymbionts and natural selection for them to increase infected female production, yet the underlying mechanism remained unknown. Here, we tested whether and howCardiniumandWolbachiacausing different CI types interact to increase female production in a haplodiploid thrips species where sex allocation depends on both maternal condition and egg size provisioning. We found thatCardiniumaugmented female production by increasing maternal fitness and egg size, thereby boosting fertilization rate and offspring fitness.Wolbachia, in contrast, reduced the beneficial effects ofCardinium. Our results demonstrate different invasion strategies and antagonistic effects of endosymbiotic bacteria on host fitness and evolution of sex allocation.
Molecular basis of DNA recognition by the HMG-box-C1 module of Capicua
Authors: Webb Jonathan , Liew Jeremy J.M. , Gnann Andrew D. , Patterson MacKenzie , Paul Sayantanee , Forés Marta , Jiménez Gerardo , Veraksa Alexey , Dowling Daniel P.
Published: March 2022

The HMG-box protein Capicua (CIC) is an evolutionarily conserved transcriptional repressor with key functions in development and disease-associated processes. CIC binds DNA using an exclusive mechanism that requires both its HMG-box and a separate domain called C1, but how these domains cooperate to recognize specific DNA sequences is not known. Here we report the crystal structure of the human CIC HMG-box and C1 domains in complex with an 18-base-pair DNA oligomer containing a consensus octameric CIC binding site. We find that both protein domains adopt independent tri-helical structures that pack against opposite sides of the DNA helix. The C1 domain in particular folds into a helix-turn-helix (HTH) structure that resembles the FF phosphoprotein binding domain. It inserts into the major groove of the DNA and plays a direct role in enhancing both the affinity and sequence specificity of CIC DNA binding. Our results reveal a unique bipartite protein module, ensuring highly specific DNA recognition by CIC, and show how this mechanism is disrupted by cancer mutations affecting either the HMG-box or C1 domains.
Novel assays monitoring direct glucocorticoid receptor protein activity exhibit high predictive power for ligand activity on endogenous gene targets
Authors: Van Moortel Laura , Thommis Jonathan , Maertens Brecht , Staes An , Clarisse Dorien , De Sutter Delphine , Libert Claude , Meijer Onno C. , Eyckerman Sven , Gevaert Kris , De Bosscher Karolien
Published: March 2022

Exogenous glucocorticoids are widely used in the clinic for the treatment of inflammatory disorders and auto-immune diseases. Unfortunately, their use is hampered by many side effects and therapy resistance. Efforts to find more selective glucocorticoid receptor (GR) agonists and modulators (called SEGRAMs) that are able to separate anti-inflammatory effects via gene repression from metabolic effects via gene activation, have been unsuccessful so far. In this study, we characterized a set of functionally diverse GR ligands in A549 cells, first using a panel of luciferase-based reporter gene assays evaluating GR-driven gene activation and gene repression. We expanded this minimal assay set with novel luciferase-based read-outs monitoring GR protein levels, GR dimerization and GR Serine 211 (Ser211) phosphorylation status and compared their outcomes with compound effects on the mRNA levels of known GR target genes in A549 cells and primary hepatocytes. We found that luciferase reporters evaluating GR-driven gene activation and gene repression were not always reliable predictors for effects on endogenous target genes. Remarkably, our novel assay monitoring GR Ser211 phosphorylation levels proved to be the most reliable predictor for compound effects on almost all tested endogenous GR targets, both driven by gene activation and repression. The integration of this novel assay in existing screening platforms running both in academia and industry may therefore boost chances to find novel GR ligands with an actual improved therapeutic benefit.
Single Cell Profiling of CD45+ Spinal Cord Cells Reveals Microglial and B Cell Heterogeneity and Crosstalk Following Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Fisher Elizabeth S. , Amarante Matthew , Lowry Natasha , Lotz Steven , Farjood Farhad , Temple Sally , Hill Caitlin E. , Kiehl Thomas R.
Published: March 2022

It is well established that immune cells play crucial roles after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, our knowledge of the contributions of various immune cells to injury progression and repair is incomplete. These gaps in understanding hamper development of SCI therapeutics. In the current study, using single-cell RNA sequencing, and transcriptomic analysis, the populations of resident and circulating CD45+ immune cells present within the uninjured and injured mouse spinal cord were identified. In the uninjured and subacutely-injured (7 day) spinal cord, most CD45+ cells were microglia while in chronic SCI (60 day) B cells predominated. Examination of microglia and B cell clusters showed subtype-specific alterations after SCI, including the presence of both immature and mature B cells chronically. Analysis of the expression of signaling partners in B cells and microglia identified injury-related microglia-B-cell interactions. This sequencing resource establishes unidentified interactions revealing new mechanisms to target inflammatory responses for SCI repair.
The role of insulators and transcription in 3D chromatin organization of flies
Authors: Chathoth Keerthi T. , Mikheeva Liudmila A. , Crevel Gilles , Wolfe Jareth C. , Hunter Ioni , Beckett-Doyle Saskia , Cotterill Sue , Dai Hongsheng , Harrison Andrew , Zabet Nicolae Radu
Published: March 2022

The DNA in many organisms, including humans, is shown to be organized in topologically associating domains (TADs). In Drosophila, several architectural proteins are enriched at TAD borders, but it is still unclear whether these proteins play a functional role in the formation and maintenance of TADs. Here, we show that depletion of BEAF-32, Cp190, Chro, and Dref leads to changes in TAD organization and chromatin loops. Their depletion predominantly affects TAD borders located in regions moderately enriched in repressive modifications and depleted in active ones, whereas TAD borders located in euchromatin are resilient to these knockdowns. Furthermore, transcriptomic data has revealed hundreds of genes displaying differential expression in these knockdowns and showed that the majority of differentially expressed genes are located within reorganized TADs. Our work identifies a novel and functional role for architectural proteins at TAD borders in Drosophila and a link between TAD reorganization and subsequent changes in gene expression.
Impact and awareness of COVID-19 on rural communities – an empirical study of India
Authors: Kanwar Varinder S. , Dutta Hitakshi , Dutt Ishwar , Kumar Ashok , Prakasam C. , Kanwar Manvi
Published: March 2022

Purpose

To study the impact, awareness and preparedness of COVID-19, a “pandemic” that has aroused the attention of the entire world because of rapid infection rates; among the targeted rural communities as basis to analyze their self-sustainability level.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methodology/approach combining critical literature review and questionnaire-based survey has been followed in two villages, covering a sample of 150 households located in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The parameters were selected to check awareness/preparedness regarding basic guidelines, immunity, requirements of essential facilities to deal with COVID-19 patients, the effect of lockdown on social and financial status, difficulties in education.

Findings

The villages have the potential to transform into Smart Villages or Smart Communities with the adaption of self-sustainable processes. The self-reliance on agriculture and traditional lifestyle in targeted rural areas make them relatively safer as compared to the urban areas. The community's overall awareness about COVID-19 and its preparedness was found satisfactory, with some variations that require more innovative strategies with academic interventions.

Research limitations/implications

Although the scope of the study was limited to two remote villages of Himachal Pradesh (India), the results could be generalized for in-depth understanding about other villages in the state to convert them into smart villages.

Originality/value

It summarizes a systemic perspective based on selected parameters on how COVID-19 lockdown has affected different aspects of life in rural communities. Further, collaborative efforts and adoption of self-sustainability model can lead to the remarkable transformation of villages into smart villages.
Heterogeneous collaborative networks and firm performance: Do the contingent effects of family management and intellectual property rights matter?
Authors: Martínez-Alonso Rubén , Martínez-Romero María J. , Rojo-Ramírez Alfonso A.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between heterogeneous collaborative networks and firm performance, using the resource-based view (RBV) and its extension through the knowledge-based view (KBV) as theoretical lens. Moreover, the authors examine family management and intellectual property rights (IPRs) as contingent factors that enhance the effectiveness of heterogeneous collaborative networks in achieving superior firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are developed and checked by using a panel data sample of 10,985 firm-year observations from 1,766 Spanish manufacturing firms over the period 2007–2016.

Findings

The results indicate that heterogeneous collaborative networks positively influence firm performance. Furthermore, the positive impact of these innovation networks on firm performance is reinforced by high levels of family management, and such effect is even stronger when there exists high levels of IPRs.

Originality/value

This research is the first, to our knowledge, to provide important new insights into the manner in which the effect of both family management and IPRs have the potential to amplify the performance gains attained from heterogenous collaborative networks.
Sharing the Benefits of Asteroid Mining
Authors: Butkevičienė Eglė , Rabitz Florian
Published: March 2022

Near‐Earth asteroids (NEAs) hold metal reserves that could sustain global consumption for millennia. Unresolved questions of technological and economic feasibility notwithstanding, NEA mining could ensure the accessibility and affordability of key strategic resources, contribute to sustainability transitions and displace environmentally and socially harmful terrestrial mining. Based on implicit and explicit normative commitments towards the common heritage principle in international space law, we develop the outlines of a regime for the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits resulting from NEA mining. For doing so, we analyze the linkages between institutional design and regime effectiveness for benefit‐sharing regimes in the areas of deep‐sea mining and plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. Attempting to control for differences in problem structure, we transpose this analysis to the case of NEA mining, where an effective benefit‐sharing regime would revolve around the following elements: standardized exploration and exploitation contracts, back‐end benefit‐sharing as a percentage of commercial profits, research exemptions, compliance mechanisms for preventing and reducing space pollution, as well as a reserve banking system for mining claims. For the contemporary political debate on space resources, we thus aim to provide a feasible alternative to the exclusive appropriation of space resources through private property rights.
The effect of vasoconstriction on intestinal perfusion is determined by preload dependency: A prospective observational study
Authors: Agerskov Marianne , Sørensen Henrik , Højlund Jakob , Kjær Søren , Secher Niels H. , Foss Nicolai B.
Published: March 2022

Background

The effects of vasoconstriction on cardiac stroke volume (SV) and indices of peripheral and intestinal perfusion are insufficiently described.

Methods

In a non‐randomized clinical study, 30 patients undergoing elective rectal surgery were exposed to modulation of preload. The primary endpoint was intestinal perfusion (flux), measured by single‐point laser Doppler flowmetry. Secondary endpoints were central cardiovascular variables obtained by the LiDCO rapid monitor, the peripheral perfusion index (PPI) derived from the pulse oximetry signal and muscle (StO2) and cerebral oxygenation (ScO2) determined by near‐infrared spectroscopy.

Results

For the whole cohort (n = 30), administration of Phenylephrine during HUT induced a median [IQR] increase in SV by 22% [14–41], p = .003 and in mean arterial pressure (MAP) by 54% [31–62], p < .001, with no change in PPI, StO2 and ScO2 or flux. In patients who were preload dependent during HUT (stroke volume variation; SSV >10%; n = 23), administration of phenylephrine increased SV by 29% [12–43], p = .01 and MAP by 54% [33–63], p < .001, followed by an increase in intestinal perfusion flux by 60% [15–289], p = .05, while PPI, StO2 and ScO2 remained unchanged. For non‐preload dependent patients (SSV <10%; n = 7), no changes in hemodynamic indices were seen besides an increase in MAP by 54% [33–58], p = .002.

Conclusion

The reflection of vasoconstrictive modulation of preload in systemic cardiovascular variables and indices of perfusion was dependent on preload responsiveness. Administration of phenylephrine to increase preload did not appear to compromise organ perfusion.
Clustering High-Dimensional Data via Feature Selection
Authors: Liu Tianqi , Lu Yu , Zhu Biqing , Zhao Hongyu
Published: March 2022

High-dimensional clustering analysis is a challenging problem in statistics and machine learning, with broad applications such as the analysis of microarray data and RNA-seq data. In this paper, we propose a new clustering procedure called spectral clustering with feature selection (SC-FS), where we first obtain an initial estimate of labels via spectral clustering, then select a small fraction of features with the largest R-squared with these labels, that is, the proportion of variation explained by group labels, and conduct clustering again using selected features. Under mild conditions, we prove that the proposed method identifies all informative features with high probability and achieves the minimax optimal clustering error rate for the sparse Gaussian mixture model. Applications of SC-FS to four real-world datasets demonstrate its usefulness in clustering high-dimensional data.
Sex differences in the association of math achievement with visual‐spatial and verbal working memory: Does the type of math test matter?
Authors: van de Weijer‐Bergsma Eva , Van Luit Johannes E. H. , Moeller Korbinian
Published: March 2022

Previous research on sex differences in mathematical achievement shows mixed findings, which have been argued to depend on types of math tests used and the type of solution strategies (i.e., verbal versus visual‐spatial) these tests evoke. The current study evaluated sex differences in (a) performance (development) on two types of math tests in primary schools and (b) the predictive value of verbal and visual‐spatial working memory on math achievement. Children (N = 3175) from grades 2 through five participated. Visual‐spatial and verbal working memory were assessed using online computerized tasks. Math performance was assessed five times during two school years using a speeded arithmetic test (math fluency) and a word problem test (math problem solving). Results from Multilevel Multigroup Latent Growth Modeling, showed that sex differences in level and growth of math performance were mixed and very small. Sex differences in the predictive value of verbal and visual‐spatial working memory for math performance suggested that boys seemed to rely more on verbal strategies than girls. Explanations focus on cognitive and emotional factors and how these may interact to possibly amplify sex differences as children grow older.
How to analyze visual propaganda in the Middle East: An analysis of imagery in the “Saudi Strike Force Movie”
Authors: Walsh Tom
Published: March 2022

This paper provides an innovative approach to visual analysis in the Middle East. It addresses a fundamental problem in the fields of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and Securitization Theory (ST): they largely ignore the visual. This project develops a methodology for visual analysis. Its utility is demonstrated through an examination of a Saudi propaganda video, entitled “Saudi Strike Force Video.” When observing the Saudi‐Iranian rivalry on social media, there is a prevalence of visceral visual propaganda. Thus, the need for the construction of a systematic model for its analysis is important in addressing this conceptual gap. CDA and ST are aligned on an essential belief that discourse is a power‐laden process, and that to affect change, scholars must attempt to understand its production, articulation, and impact. Yet, both of these approaches tend to focus on the written and spoken word, negating the importance of the visual. This paper contends that the visual is equally power‐laden, having a profound effect as a tool of propaganda
Poor engagement and adherence predict neoplasia in inflammatory bowel disease: a case‐control study
Authors: Young Edward , Jones Esther , Thomas Michelle , Lawrence Matthew , Andrews Jane
Published: March 2022

Background

Colorectal adenocarcinoma is an important and preventable complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A previous case series suggested mental health issues and poor engagement in care as novel risk factors.

Aims

To confirm the role of patient engagement in care in the development of neoplasia using a case‐control methodology.

Methods

Patients in a single referral centre from 2007 to 2017 with colorectal adenocarcinoma, high‐grade dysplasia or multifocal low‐grade dysplasia were included as neoplasia cases. Each case was assigned up to three matched controls (matched for age, gender, underlying disease, IBD type and phenotype and disease duration). Novel and known risk factors were compared between groups.

Results

Thirty‐two cases with 88 matched controls were included. Patients with neoplasia were more likely to have poor adherence to, or engagement with, care (odds ratio (OR) 4.79). They were also more likely to have chronic use of opioids (OR 3.86) and long‐term prednisolone (OR 2.97). Of note, no difference was found in measures of socioeconomic disadvantage, reflecting equitable access to healthcare in the public institution where the care was studied. As previously shown, patients with neoplasia had multiple markers of increased cumulative burden of inflammation, including more IBD‐related hospital admissions, elevated inflammatory markers and severe inflammation at colonoscopy.

Conclusions

This study confirms poor adherence or engagement with care as a new risk factor for colorectal adenocarcinoma in patients with IBD; identifying a vulnerable group whom clinicians should endeavour to engage in order to avoid this catastrophic complication.
Thermal requirements for egg development of two endemic Wiseana pest species (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae) of economic importance
Authors: Atijegbe Sylvester R. , Mansfield Sarah , Ferguson Colin M. , Rostás Michael , Worner Susan P.
Published: March 2022

Several endemic hepialid species in the genus Wiseana have become serious pests in New Zealand. Two species, in particular, reach high numbers, causing significant economic damage to pasture. Key developmental parameters for egg hatch for both species are needed along with monitoring and weather data to estimate the optimal time to apply control measures to the vulnerable early instar larvae. In this study, thermal requirements for the egg stage of Wiseana copularis and W. cervinata were determined to provide the basis of a prototype phenology model designed to improve the timing of application, therefore, the efficacy of an insect growth regulator, diflubenzuron, against early instar larvae. The standard linear regression method and the Ikemoto and Takai method of insect development were compared for the goodness of fit to the egg‐stage development of W. copularis and W. cervinata at constant temperatures to determine a developmental lower threshold (T0) and degree day (DD) requirement for the egg to the larval stage for each species. The Ikemoto and Takai method gave the highest estimate of T0 for W. copularis at 7.9°C compared with 6.4°C for the standard regression method. For W. cervinata, the estimates ranged from 6.6°C (Ikemoto and Takai method) to 4.1°C (standard regression method). Of the two methods, the Ikemoto and Takai method had the better fit and lowest standard error for the parameters of interest. Thus, the Ikemoto and Takai model was chosen to estimate the critical parameters, T0 and the requirement for egg‐larval development of W. copularis (7.9°C, 185 DD) and W. cervinata (6.6°C, 177 DD).
Effect of swallowing training combined with nutritional intervention on the nutritional status and quality of life of laryngeal cancer patients with dysphagia after operation and radiotherapy
Authors: Zhu Xuewei , Liu Dahai , Zong Minru , Wang Jianfeng
Published: March 2022

Background

Dysphagia is a common complication in patients with laryngeal cancer after surgery and radiotherapy.

Objectives

To explore the effect of swallowing training administered in combination with nutritional intervention on the nutritional status and quality of life of laryngeal cancer patients with dysphagia after surgery and radiotherapy.

Methods

Sixty‐six patients with laryngeal cancer who developed dysphagia were randomly divided into control group and intervention group (n = 33 in each group). Patients in both groups received total laryngectomy and prophylactic radiotherapy and were provided routine health counseling and swallowing training. Patients in the intervention group were additionally provided with nutritional intervention. All patients were evaluated using video fluoroscopic swallowing examination (VFSE), Patient‐Generated Subjective Global Assessment on nutritional status (PG‐SGA) score, and Quality of Life Questionnaire‐core 30 (QLQ‐c30) score immediately after radiotherapy and 3 months later.

Results

Prior to swallowing training, there was no significant between‐group difference with respect to VFSE evaluation, PG‐SGA score, or QLQ‐c30 score. Both groups showed improvement in these measures at 3 months after radiotherapy; however, the improvement in the intervention group was significantly better than that in the control group.

Conclusions

Swallowing training combined with nutritional intervention can improve swallowing function, nutritional status and the quality of life of laryngeal cancer patients with dysphagia after operation and radiotherapy.