bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐chemical analysis combined with chemometrics to characterize PDO and PGI Italian apples
Authors: Aguzzoni Agnese , Bassi Michele , Pignotti Emanuela , Robatscher Peter , Scandellari Francesca , Tirler Werner , Tagliavini Massimo
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

The use of PDO (protected designation of origin) and PGI (protected geographical indication) labels allows to protect and promote agricultural products characterized by unique features related to the place of origin and traditional know‐how. However, the presence of non‐authentic products in the market represents a fraud that can be tackled applying analytical techniques combined with chemometric analysis. In this study, we applied multi‐element and multi‐isotope analysis to characterize PDO and PGI apples cultivated in northern Italy, comparing them with Italian apples without labels of geographical indications.

RESULTS

The multi‐element and multi‐isotope approach allowed to characterize the apples cultivated in northern Italy. Despite a significant effect of the sampling sites on the apple composition, the comparison of the multi‐chemical fingerprint of the apples significantly varied among cultivation areas. Results of this characterization were used to classify samples according to their cultivation area applying a linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Outputs of the LDA showed that correct sample classification can be successfully achieved (balanced accuracy > 96%). Moreover, using a selection of variables, it was possible to correctly classify samples also at regional level.

CONCLUSION

The presented evidences indicate that the multi‐element and multi‐isotope fingerprint can be successfully applied to traceability studies. The combination of this characterization with chemometric tools allows the classification of Italian apples based on their origin both on a national and regional scale. This approach represents an interesting tool to enhance and protect PDO and PGI Italian products.

© 2021 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography as a boosting technology in food‐omic investigations
Authors: Stilo Federico , Bicchi Carlo , Reichenbach Stephen E. , Cordero Chiara
Published: February 2021

This review focuses on the role that comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography can play within the investigation workflows of food‐omics and related disciplines and subdisciplines, including food metabolomics, nutrimetabolomics, sensomics, and food safety. After a short introductory survey, discussing the intriguing context of system biology and integrationist approaches of investigation, the concepts of analytical dimensions and the key characteristics of comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography are introduced. Through a selection of relevant examples, the boosting role of comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography within food‐omics is described, providing to the reader evidence of how comprehensive multidimensional separations based platforms have introduced new concepts and tools in the analytical measurement of complex biological samples.
A strategy to prevent a temperature‐induced MRI artifact in warm liquid phantoms due to convection currents
Authors: Oglesby Ryan T. , Lam Wilfred W. , Stanisz Greg J.
Published: February 2021

MRI phantom studies often fail to mimic the temperature of the human body, which can negatively impact accuracy. An artifact induced by increasing temperature in liquid phantoms was observed, presenting a significant challenge to temperature‐controlled experiments. In this study we characterize and provide a solution to eliminate this temperature‐induced MRI artifact. Low concentration (0.5–2.5 mM) agar phantoms were prepared. Utilizing a temperature‐controlled phantom holder, T1‐ and T2‐weighted structural images were acquired at 7 T along with quantitative B0, B1, T1, T2 and ADC maps at both 25 and 37°C. Additionally, computer simulations were conducted to demonstrate the fluid flow and thermal flux patterns in water to provide an insight into the origins of the artifact. Evidence from computer simulation and quantitative MRI strongly suggest the artifact was caused by heat transfer in the form of natural convection leading to structured patterns of signal loss in MR images. The artifact was present up to agar concentrations of 1.5 mM (T1 = 3068 ± 16 ms, T2 = 1052 ± 20 ms, ADC = 2.29 ± 0.36 × 10−3 mm2/s at 25°C; T1 = 3928 ± 44 ms, T2 = 1122 ± 24 ms, ADC = 2.64 ± 0.49 × 10−3 mm2/s at 37°C), above which point increased sample viscosity no longer allows for convection currents, thereby eliminating the artifact. The methodology described in this work simplifies quantitative MR acquisition of liquid phantoms at physiological temperature by suppressing convection currents with relatively small changes to intrinsic MR parameters (T1 increased by 1.4% and T2 decreased by 17% for 1.5 mM agar at 25°C).
PolyBoost: An enhanced genomic variant classifier using extreme gradient boosting
Authors: Parente Daniel J.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Human exome sequences contain 15,000–20,000 variants but many variants have unknown clinical impact. In silico predictive classifiers are recognized by the American College of Medical Genetics as a resource for interpreting these “variants of uncertain significance.” Many in silico classifiers have been developed, of which PolyPhen‐2 is highly successful and widely used. PolyPhen‐2 uses a naïve Bayes model to synthesize sequence, structural and genomic information. I investigated whether predictive performance could be improved by replacing PolyPhen‐2′s naïve Bayes model with alternative machine learning methods.

Experimental design

Classifiers using the PolyPhen‐2 feature set were retrained using extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), random forests, artificial neural networks, and support vector machines. Classifiers were externally validated on “pathogenic” and “benign” ClinVar variants absent from the training datasets. Software is implemented in Python and is freely available athttps://github.com/djparente/polyboostand the Python Package Index (PyPI) under the BSD license.

Results

An XGBoost‐based classifier—designated PolyBoost (PolyPhen‐2 Booster)—improves discriminative performance and calibration relative to PolyPhen‐2 in external validation on ClinVar.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

PolyBoost analyzes PolyPhen‐2 output and can be incorporated into existing bioinformatics workflows as a post‐analysis method to improve interpretation of clinical exome sequences obtained to identify monogenic disease.
Neutralizing antibodies targeting the SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor binding domain isolated from a naïve human antibody library
Authors: Bell Benjamin N. , Powell Abigail E. , Rodriguez Carlos , Cochran Jennifer R. , Kim Peter S.
Published: February 2021

Infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 elicits robust antibody responses in some patients, with a majority of the response directed at the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike surface glycoprotein. Remarkably, many patient‐derived antibodies that potently inhibit viral infection harbor few to no mutations from the germline, suggesting that naïve antibody libraries are a viable means for discovery of novel SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralizing antibodies. Here, we used a yeast surface‐display library of human naïve antibodies to isolate and characterize three novel neutralizing antibodies that target the RBD: one that blocks interaction with angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the human receptor for SARS‐CoV‐2, and two that target other epitopes on the RBD. These three antibodies neutralized SARS‐CoV‐2 spike‐pseudotyped lentivirus with IC50 values as low as 60 ng/ml in vitro. Using a biolayer interferometry‐based binding competition assay, we determined that these antibodies have distinct but overlapping epitopes with antibodies elicited during natural COVID‐19 infection. Taken together, these analyses highlight how in vitro selection of naïve antibodies can mimic the humoral response in vivo, yielding neutralizing antibodies and various epitopes that can be effectively targeted on the SARS‐CoV‐2 RBD.
Estimating specific surface area: Incorporating the effect of surface roughness and probing molecule size
Authors: Ghanbarian Behzad , Hunt Allen G. , Bittelli Marco , Tuller Markus , Arthur Emmanuel
Published: February 2021

The pore–solid interface and its characteristics play a key role in chemical interactions between minerals in the solid soil matrix and the liquid in pore space and, consequently, solute transport in soils. Specific surface area (SSA), typically measured to characterize the pore–solid interface, depends not only on the particle size distribution (PSD) but also on particle shapes and surface roughness. In this note, we investigate the effects of surface roughness and probing molecule size on SSA estimation, use concepts from fractals, and theoretically estimate SSA from PSD and the water retention curve (WRC). The former is used to characterize the particle sizes and the latter to approximately quantify the pore–solid interface roughness by determining the surface fractal dimension. To evaluate our approach, we use five Washington and 21 Arizona soils for which both PSDs and WRCs were accurately measured over a wide range of particle sizes and matric potentials. Comparison with the experiments show that the proposed method estimates the SSA reasonably well, with RMSE = 16.8 and 30.1 m2 g–1 and average relative error = –56 and –35% for the Washington and Arizona datasets, respectively.
Do soil health tests match farmer experience? Assessing biological, physical, and chemical indicators in the Upper Midwest United States
Authors: O'Neill Brendan , Sprunger Christine D. , Robertson G. Philip
Published: February 2021

Soil health testing provides an integrated assessment of biological, physical, and chemical attributes to inform the sustainable management of farm fields. However, it is unclear how tests reflect farmers’ own assessments of soil quality and agronomic performance, which may disproportionately influence farm management practices. We asked farmers in three regions of Michigan to identify three fields to compare their own assessments against soil health tests: a “best,” a “worst,” and a “non‐row crop” reference field. Each field was tested for soil aggregate stability, available water capacity, soil organic matter (SOM), mineralizable carbon (MinC), permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC), pH, P, and K. We evaluated soil health scores using paired t tests to compare results from contrasting fields with farmers’ assessments of each field. Across all farms, the overall soil health test score for cropped fields was significantly higher on fields farmers rated as “Best.” This result was driven solely by physical and biological (including C) parameters; inorganic chemical tests did not distinguish among field types. On reference fields in all regions, biological parameters were consistently higher, but inorganic chemical and physical measures were not. The performance of soil C measures was inconsistent: SOM and MinC consistently detected significant differences between “Best” and “Worst” cropped fields, but POXC did not. Our results suggest that common soil health assays for physical and biological attributes generally align well with farmers’ assessments of their fields. That soil health tests match farmer experience reinforces the value of these tests as a meaningful guide for soil management decisions.
Synthesis, Crystal Structures and Properties of Polymorphic and Isomeric Nickel(II)thiocyanate Coordination Compounds with 3‐Bromopyridine as Coligand
Authors: Krebs Christoph , Ceglarska Magdalena , Näther Christian
Published: February 2021

Reaction of different molar ratios of Ni(NCS)2 and 3‐bromopyridine in water, methanol or acetonitrile leads to the formation of two polymorphs of composition Ni(NCS)2(3‐bromopyridine)4 (1‐I and 1‐II), as well as Ni(NCS)2(3‐bromopyridine)2(H2O)2 (2), Ni(NCS)2(3‐Bromopyridine)2(CH3OH)2 (3), Ni(NCS)2(3‐bromopyridine)2 ⋅ CH3CN (4) and Ni(NCS)2(3‐bromopyridine)2 (5). Compounds 1‐I, 1‐II, 2 and 3 consist of discrete octahedral complexes with terminal N‐bonded anionic ligands. In compound 4 the Ni cations are cis‐cis‐trans coordinated and linked into corrugated chains by pairs of μ‐1,3‐bridging thiocyanate anions. Solvent mediated conversion experiments prove that form 1‐I represents the thermodynamically stable polymorph at room temperature. TG‐DTA measurements reveal that upon heating compounds 1‐I, 1‐II, 2 and 3 lose their coligands stepwise and transform into the new crystalline phase 5 that can also be obtained from solution if the reaction is performed in n‐butanol. If the acetonitrile solvate molecules are removed from compound 4, it also transforms into 5. DC magnetic measurements for compound 4 show a maximum, which is indicative for antiferromagnetic ordering, whereas for compound 5 no magnetic ordering is observed. For both compounds, the ferromagnetic exchange constants were determined.
Mechanismen und Funktionen von bakteriellen AAA+­Entfaltungsmaschinen
Authors: Mogk Axel
Published: February 2021

Bacterial AAA+ proteins play crucial roles in proteostasis networks and ensure protein homeostasis during stress conditions. They function as ATP-dependent components of proteolytic complexes degrading misfolded proteins or as disaggregases reactivating aggregated proteins. AAA+ proteins generate an ATP-fueled threading force driving substrate unfolding and translocation. Their central functions in protein quality control qualify them as antibacterial drug target.
3D-Printed Flexible Penile Model Simulator for Plaque Incision and Graft for Peyronie's Disease
Authors: Miranda Alexandre
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Plaque incision and graft (PIG) is suggested for the treatment of significant Peyronie's disease (PD), but most surgeons perform very few PIG surgeries annually, and the number of PD cases requiring PIG is inadequate to maintain the necessary skills and completely master the procedure.

Aim

To develop and validate a new 3D-printed model of a curved penis and graft to simulate PIG surgery. This is the first PIG surgical training simulator described in the medical literature.

Methods

A 3D-printed model of the corpora cavernosa with a 60-degree curvature and an associated urethra was created using a flexible filament of thermoplastic polyurethane. Twenty-two urologists from Brazil were recruited to perform simulated surgery on the 3D model. The participants included 12 senior-level and 10 trainee-level urologists.

Main outcome measures

Evaluation of the device was based on a 15-item questionnaire using a 5-point Likert-type scale for each item.

Results

Each participant performed one simulated surgery with the 3D-printed model. All participants agreed that the simulation should be implemented into training programs. Participants ranked all content validity components ≥4.41 and all face validity components ≥3.83. The mean usability score was 4.25, and the overall experience scores were 4.75 (senior) and 5.0 (trainee).

Conclusion

Senior and trainee urologists evaluated this first reported simulated PIG training model for penile curvature correction as an acceptable tool for training and maintaining necessary PIG skills. This model may improve PIG training and surgeon skill, thereby improving patient safety and outcomes.
Female Sexual Dysfunction After Pelvic Fracture: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Walton Alice B. , Leinwand Gabriel Z. , Raheem Omer , Hellstrom Wayne J.G. , Brandes Steven B. , Benson Cooper R.
Published: February 2021

Background

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) after pelvic fracture (PFx) has garnered little attention in the urology literature.

Aim

To review and summarize the current evidence regarding female PFx-related sexual function.

Methods

We performed a systematic review in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, including PubMed, EMBASE, and MEDLINE. We included only English-language manuscripts and abstracts with sufficient data for inclusion. We used the search terms “female sexual dysfunction AND pelvic fracture,” “sexual dysfunction AND pelvic fracture,” and “female pelvic fracture AND sexual dysfunction.” A total of 177 articles were identified; 41 abstracts were reviewed; of which, 19 manuscripts were reviewed. Fifteen met inclusion criteria for analysis.

Outcomes

The main outcome measures of this study are rates and types of female sexual dysfunction after pelvic fracture.

RESULTS

FSD is prevalent after PFx, with reported rates between 25% and 62%. Three studies used the validated Female Sexual Function Index. The other 12 used non-validated questionnaires or adapted quality-of-life questionnaires with specific questions regarding FSD. The most common complaints include difficulty with intercourse, dyspareunia, orgasmic dysfunction, genitourinary pain, decreased interest in intercourse, decreased satisfaction with intercourse, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Only 1 study addressed resolution of dysfunction (30 of 98 patients [30.4%]).

Clinical Implications

FSD is prevalent and an under-recognized sequela of pelvic fracture. This requires future prospective study to better characterize sexual dysfunction and identify effective treatments in trauma survivors.

Strength and Limitations

To Increase awareness of FSD after pelvic trauma and the impact on the quality of life in trauma survivors. The current literature is limited by a lack of standardized assessment of FSD, limited follow-up, and minimal discussion of treatment options, in addition to the inherent bias of retrospective studies.

CONCLUSIONS

FSD after traumatic PFx is not uncommon, occurs mostly in young women, and can be morbid. FSD after PFx is underreported in the urology literature. Thus, all female PFx patients should be screened for FSD by validated questionnaires. The published literature offers little knowledge as to the epidemiology, evaluation, definition, and potential treatments of FSD after PFx. Prospective studies are needed to better understand female sexual function in trauma survivors and the potential methods for prevention and rehabilitation, all within the context of a multidisciplinary approach.
Objective screening for olfactory and gustatory dysfunction during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A prospective study in healthcare workers using self‐administered testing
Authors: Cao Austin C. , Nimmo Zachary M. , Mirza Natasha , Cohen Noam A. , Brody Robert M. , Doty Richard L.
Published: February 2021

Background

Smell and taste loss are highly prevalent symptoms in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), although few studies have employed objective measures to quantify these symptoms, especially dysgeusia. Reports of unrecognized anosmia in COVID‐19 patients suggests that self‐reported measures are insufficient for capturing patients with chemosensory dysfunction.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to quantify the impact of recent COVID‐19 infection on chemosensory function and demonstrate the use of at‐home objective smell and taste testing in an at‐risk population of healthcare workers.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty healthcare workers were screened for possible loss of smell and taste using online surveys. Self‐administered smell and taste tests were mailed to respondents meeting criteria for elevated risk of infection, and one‐month follow‐up surveys were completed.

Results

Among subjects with prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, 73% reported symptoms of olfactory and/or gustatory dysfunction. Self‐reported smell and taste loss were both strong predictors of COVID‐19 positivity. Subjects with evidence of recent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (<45 days) had significantly lower olfactory scores but equivalent gustatory scores compared to other subjects. There was a time‐dependent increase in smell scores but not in taste scores among subjects with prior infection and chemosensory symptoms. The overall infection rate was 4.4%, with 2.5% reported by PCR swab.

Conclusion

Healthcare workers with recent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection had reduced olfaction and normal gustation on self‐administered objective testing compared to those without infection. Rates of infection and chemosensory symptoms in our cohort of healthcare workers reflect those of the general public.
Evaluation of Interaction Between Emergency Medical System and Hospital Network During a Train Derailment in Milano
Authors: Faccincani Roberto , Stucchi Riccardo , Carlucci Michele , Sannicandro Riccardo , Formenti-Ujlaki George , Pascucci Federico , Montan Carl , Zoli Alberto , Picco Carlo , Fumagalli Roberto
Published: February 2021

On January 25, 2018 a 5-car train derailed in Pioltello, 10 kilometers North-East of Milano City. A standardized post-hoc form was distributed to the hospitals involved in the management of the victims and allowed for an evaluation of the response to the incident.

The management of the incident by EMS (Emergency Medical System) was effective in terms of organization of the scene and distribution of the patients, although the time for the first severe patient to reach the closest appropriate hospital was very long (2 hours). This can be partially explained by the extrication time.

None of the alerted hospitals exceeded their capacity, as patients were distributed carefully among the hospitals. The overall outcome was quite satisfactory; no deaths were reported except for those on scene. Some responding hospitals reported that there was an over-activation based on the services ultimately needed. However this is common in MCIs, as an over-activation is preferable to an under-estimation. To address this concern, as more data are available, activation should be scaled down based on a plan established prior to it; this mechanism of scaling down seems to have failed in this event.

It is of note that the highest performing hospitals underwent recently to an educational program on MCI management.
RAMSEY’S COHEIRS
Authors: COLLA EUGENIO , ZAMBELLA DOMENICO
Published: February 2021

We use the model theoretic notion of coheir to give short proofs of old and new theorems in Ramsey Theory. As an illustration we start from Ramsey’s theorem itself. Then we prove Hindman’s theorem and the Hales–Jewett theorem. Finally, we prove two Ramsey theoretic principles that have among their consequences partition theorems due to Carlson and to Gowers.
Los rituales de entronización de los príncipes “Turbante de Serpiente” de Chichén Itzá y Hunac Ceel de Mayapán
Authors: Bíró Péter , Pérez de Heredia Eduardo
Published: February 2021

Las escenas de los bajorrelieves del Templo Norte de Chichén Itzá han sido investigadas durante muchas décadas, y los estudiosos han coincidido en que ilustran el ritual de inauguración del nuevo rey o gobernante, quien atraviesa diversos desafíos y ordalías y quien se distingue por portar un turbante de serpiente. En este artículo ampliamos esta idea y argumentamos que la iconografía del Templo Norte muestra rituales particulares que también son descritos en una de las historias del Chilam Balam de Chumayel, que refiere a la entronización del famoso príncipe Hunac Ceel de Mayapán. Además, presentamos datos y consideraciones adicionales que nos llevan a proponer que Chichén Itzá, durante el período Postclásico temprano, tuvo un sistema de gobernanza dual jerarquizado, que más tarde continuó en Mayapán, sobreviviendo a la conquista española en el reino de Petén Itzá.
Institutional Voids and Business Model Innovation: How Grassroots Social Businesses Advance Deprived Communities in Emerging Economies
Authors: Colovic Ana , Schruoffeneger Marion
Published: February 2021

Despite the growing interest in social businesses, knowledge about and theorization of how these businesses change social and institutional conditions in emerging economies is scarce. This research investigates how an innovative social business model acts on institutional voids and creates social value for deprived communities. Building on insights from the literature and a longitudinal case study of a local, grassroots social business venture operating in Brazilian slums and shantytowns (favelas), we uncover and theorize eight mechanisms by which an innovative social business model brings about institutional change and creates social value. These mechanisms are: orchestrating local business networks, developing local business networks, upgrading and building cognitive capacity, legitimizing, assigning multiple roles, empowering, building a positive territorial identity (territorial de-stigmatization), and boundary spanning. Our findings have important implications for social entrepreneurs and organizations supporting social business ventures in transforming economies.
Secondary Business Model Innovation in Emerging Economies
Authors: Mehrotra Sonia , Velamuri S. Ramakrishna
Published: February 2021

We study two quick-service restaurant (QSR) chains based on regional ethnic foods that were launched in China and India. The products that these QSR ventures offered had hitherto been sold by fragmented street vendors who typically operated single outlets. Inspired by the successful business models of international QSR brands, these entrepreneurs developed business models to popularize their chosen regional ethnic foods in multiple new regions and grew their organizations to 1,400 and 300 outlets in China and India, respectively. We build on the recently coined concept of ‘secondary’ business model innovation (SBMI), which is based on inter-organizational learning, break down its constituents into creative and imitative, specify the mechanisms through which it is achieved, and propose that it is a specific case of the more general construct of creative imitation.
The Causal Effect of Polls on Turnout Intention: A Local Randomization Regression Discontinuity Approach
Authors: Brugarolas Pablo , Miller Luis
Published: February 2021

This letter reports the results of a study that combined a unique natural experiment and a local randomization regression discontinuity approach to estimate the effect of polls on turnout intention. We found that the release of a poll increases turnout intention by 5%. This effect is robust to a number of falsification tests of predetermined covariates, placebo outcomes, and changes in the time window selected to estimate the effect. The letter discusses the advantages of the local randomization approach over the standard continuity-based design to study important cases in political science where the running variable is discrete; a method that may expand the range of empirical topics that can be analyzed using regression discontinuity methods.
Economic distress and voting: evidence from the subprime mortgage crisis
Authors: Hall Andrew B. , Yoder Jesse , Karandikar Nishant
Published: February 2021

We use nationwide deed-level records on home foreclosures to examine the effects of economic distress on electoral outcomes and individual voter turnout. County-level difference-in-differences estimates show that counties that suffered larger increases in foreclosures did not punish or reward members of the incumbent president's party more than less affected counties. Linking the Ohio voter file to individual foreclosures, difference-in-differences estimates show that individuals whose homes were foreclosed on were less likely to turn out, rather than being mobilized. However, in 2016 counties more exposed to foreclosures supported Trump at substantially higher rates. Taken together, the evidence suggests that the effect of local economic distress on incumbent performance is generally close to zero and only becomes substantial in unusual circumstances.
Control without Confirmation: The Politics of Vacancies in Presidential Appointments
Authors: KINANE CHRISTINA M.
Published: February 2021

Scholarship on separation of powers assumes executives are constrained by legislative approval when placing agents in top policy-making positions. But presidents frequently fill vacancies in agency leadership with unconfirmed, temporary officials or leave them empty entirely. I develop a novel dataset of vacancies across 15 executive departments from 1977 to 2016 and reevaluate the conventional perspective that appointment power operates only through formal channels. I argue that presidents’ nomination strategies include leaving positions empty and making interim appointments, and this choice reflects presidents’ priorities and the character of vacant positions. The evidence indicates that interim appointees are more likely when positions have a substantial capacity to act on presidential expansion priorities and suggest that presidents can capitalize on their first-mover advantage to evade Senate confirmation. The results further suggest that separation of powers models may need to consider how deliberate inaction and sidestepping of formal powers influence political control and policy-making strategies.
Reproducibility and validity of the Mediterranean Diet Quality Index (KIDMED Index) in a sample of Portuguese adolescents
Authors: Rei Mariana , Severo Milton , Rodrigues Sara
Published: February 2021

The Mediterranean Diet Quality Index (KIDMED Index) is frequently used to evaluate adherence to the Mediterranean Dietary Pattern among children and adolescents, through sixteen questions with the associated total score ranging from −4 to 12. However, in the authors’ best knowledge, the psychometric properties of this index had not yet been investigated in Portugal. Thus, the main purpose of the present study was to investigate the reproducibility and the validity of the KIDMED Index in a sample of 185 Portuguese adolescents. The reproducibility was tested by comparing the application of the KIDMED Index at two different times (2-week interval), using McNemar test and Kappa statistics. There was moderate agreement (κw= 0·591; 95 % CI 0·485, 0·696) and no significant change (P-value = 0·201) in the KIDMED Index classification, between the two applications. The validity was explored by comparing the results obtained by the KIDMED Index and by the average of 3-d Dietary-Record (DR), using Spearman’s correlation coefficient and Kappa statistics. There was weak correlation (ρ= 0·317;P-value < 0·001) and slight agreement (κw= 0·167; 95 % CI 0·071, 0·262) between the KIDMED Index classification and the 3-d DR-derived KIDMED score, and moderate correlation (ρ= 0·423;P-value < 0·001) and fair agreement (κw= 0·344; 95 % CI 0·202, 0·486) between the terciles of the KIDMED Index and the Mediterranean Adequacy Index scores. The results suggested an acceptable reproducibility and validity of the Portuguese version of the KIDMED Index, in alignment with the few studies investigating psychometric properties of this index in other countries.
The Origins of Colonial Investments in Former British and French Africa
Authors: Ricart-Huguet Joan
Published: February 2021

Colonial investments impacted long-run political and economic development, but there is little systematic evidence of their origins and spatial distribution. Combining novel data sources, this article shows that colonial investments were very unequally distributed within sixteen British and French African colonies. What led colonial states to invest much more in some districts than others? The author argues that natural harbors and capes led some places to become centers of pre-colonial coastal trade, which in turn increased later colonial investments not only in infrastructure but also in health and education. Furthermore, distance from pre-colonial trading posts helps explain the diffusion of investments within each colony. The author finds limited support for alternative explanations such as natural resources and pre-colonial ethnic characteristics, including pre-colonial political centralization. These two findings suggest an economic origin for the regional and ethnic disparities observed in the colonial and contemporary periods.
Inheritance of key life-history traits in crosses between northern and southern populations of the cabbage beetle Colaphellus bowringi (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: He Hai-Min , Tang Jian-Jun , Huang Li-Li , Wu Shao-Hui , Peng Yuan , Xue Fang-Sen
Published: February 2021

A southern population (S) from Xiushui County (29°1′N, 114°4′E) and a northern population (N) from Shenyang city (41°48′N, 123°23′E) of the cabbage beetle, Colaphellus bowringi vary greatly in their life-history traits, and may serve as an excellent model with which to study the inheritance of life-history traits. In the present study, we performed intraspecific hybridization using the two populations, comparing the key life-history traits (fecundity, development time, body weight, growth rate, and sexual size dimorphism (SDD)) between the two populations (S♀ × S♂ and N♀ × N♂) and their two hybrid populations (S♀ × N♂ and N♀ × S♂ populations) at 19, 22, 25, and 28°C. Our results showed that there were significant differences in life-history traits between the two parental populations, with the S population having a significantly higher fecundity, shorter larval development time, larger body weight, higher growth rate, and greater weight loss during metamorphosis than the N population at almost all temperatures. However, these life-history traits in the two hybrid populations were intermediate between those of their parents. The life-history traits in the S × N and N × S populations more closely resembled those of the maternal S population and N population, respectively, showing maternal effects. Weight loss for both sexes was highest in the S population, followed by the S × N, N × S, and N populations at all temperatures, suggesting that larger pupae lost more weight during metamorphosis. The changes in SSD with temperature were similar between the S and the S × N populations and between the N and the N × S populations, also suggesting a maternal effect. Overall, our results showed no drastic effect of hybridization on C. bowringi, being neither negative (hybrid inferiority) nor positive (heterosis). Rather, the phenotypes of hybrids were intermediate between the phenotypes of their parents.
Biological traits of the predatory mirid Macrolophus praeclarus, a candidate biocontrol agent for the Neotropical region
Authors: Pérez-Hedo Meritxell , Gallego Carolina , Roda Amy , Kostyk Barry , Triana Mónica , Alférez Fernando , Stansly Philip A. , Qureshi Jawwad , Urbaneja Alberto
Published: February 2021

The predatory mirid Macrolophus praeclarus is widely distributed throughout the Americas, and is reported to prey upon several horticultural pest species. However, little is known about its biology, thermal requirements, crop odour preferences, phytophagy, and capability to induce defensive responses in plants. When five temperatures studied (20, 25, 30, 33 and 35°C) were tested and Ephestia kuehniella was used as prey, the developmental time from egg to adult on tomato, was longest at 20°C (56.3 d) and shortest at 33°C (22.7 d). The ability of nymphs to develop to adults decreased as the temperature increased, with the highest number of nymphs reaching the adult stage at 20°C (78.0%) and lowest at 35°C (0%). The lower and upper developmental thresholds were estimated at 11.2° and 35.3°C, respectively. The maximum developmental rate occurred at 31.7°C and the thermal constant was 454.0 ± 8.1 degree days. The highest predation rate of E. kuehniella eggs was obtained at 30°C. In Y-tube olfactory choice tests, M. praeclarus selected tomato, sweet pepper and eggplant odours more frequently than no plant control treatment. Macrolophus praeclarus feeding did not damage tomato plants compared to another zoophytophagous mirid, Nesidiocoris tenuis, which caused necrotic rings. The phytophagy of M. praeclarus induced defensive responses in tomato plants through the upregulation of the jasmonic acid metabolic pathway. The implications of the findings for using M. praeclarus in tomato biological control programmes in the Americas are discussed.
Estimation of direct damage to maize seedlings by the corn leafhopper,Dalbulus maidis(Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), under different watering regimes
Authors: Virla E. G. , Coll Araoz M. V. , Luft Albarracin E.
Published: February 2021

The corn leafhopperDalbulus maidis(Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), a specialist herbivore, is the cause of serious losses in maize yield for its capacity to transmit three important plant pathogens. They are also active phloem feeders, that insert stylets into the plant as they feed. Females place their eggs endophytically, totally inserted in the central midrib or the leaf blades, leaving conspicuous openings in the place where the ovipositor was inserted. In spite of the consequences that feeding and oviposition may have on the water status of the plant and the production of biomass, direct damage caused by the leafhopper has been only scarcely studied. In the present contribution, we measured biomass loss due to direct damage in maize plants under two watering regimes, with water supplyad libitumand with a watering restricted regime, emulating the most frequent field conditions. Moreover, we analyzed the effects of increasing densities of the vector on the biomass loss and plant mortality and the effects of females vs males. We observed that a density of 10 insects is sufficient to cause damage to 10-day-old seedlings, even in anad libitumwatering regime; however, in drought conditions, damage can be significantly greater, causing plant mortality. Also, females cause more damage than males, due to their oviposition habits.
CORPSE MUTILATION IN THE ILIAD
Authors: van der Plas Maaike
Published: February 2021

The Iliad opens with the image of abandoned corpses, left as prey to the wild beasts. It closes with the hard-won and respectful funeral of Hector, during which his maimed body is finally laid to rest. In-between these passages, death and the fate of dead bodies are often part of the epic's subject matter. The audience is treated to a wide selection of images concerning the fallen and their remains, ranging from those taken gently away from the battlefield to be buried to those who are posthumously mutilated where they lie. Instances of corpse mutilation are rare elsewhere in Greek historical and literary writing, but occur in the Iliad at a regular rate. The gruesomeness of these acts makes for shocking and violent scenes, and represents a radical departure from the normal funeral ritual with lasting repercussions for the relatives of the deceased and the fate of the dead person in the afterlife.
Morphological and molecular characterization ofAporcella feminasp. n. (Dorylaimida, Aporcelaimidae) from Nigeria
Authors: Rashidifard M. , Bello T.T. , Fourie H. , Coyne D.L. , Peña-Santiago R.
Published: February 2021

A new species of the genusAporcellacollected from a watermelon field in Nigeria is described, including its morphological and molecular (small subunit (SSU) and large subunit (LSU) ribosomal DNA (rDNA)) characterization.Aporcella feminasp. n. is distinguished by its 3.21–3.64 mm-long body, inner cuticle layer with fine but distinct transverse striation, lip region offset by deep constriction, 22–25 μm broad, odontostyle 20–26 μm, neck 661–811 μm long, pharyngeal expansion occupying 52–56% of the total neck length, female genital system didelphic–amphidelphic, uterus 191–350 μm or 1.9–3.3 mid-body diameters long,V= 52–57, tail short and convex conoid (35–48 μm,c= 72–98,c′= 0.7–0.9) and males absent. Phylogenetic analyses based on the partial sequence of SSU and LSU (D2–D3) rDNA revealed a close relationship ofA.feminasp. n. with otherAporcellaspecies, confirming the monophyly of the genus as well as its association to a clade made of several taxa characterized by the absence ofpars refringens vaginae.
Magnetized current filaments as a source of circularly polarized light
Authors: Sinha U. , Schoeffler K. M. , Martins J. , Vieira J. , Fonseca R. A. , Silva L. O.
Published: February 2021

We show that the Weibel or current filamentation instability can lead to the emission of circularly polarized radiation. Using particle-in-cell simulations and a radiation post-processing numerical algorithm, we demonstrate that the level of circular polarization increases with the initial plasma magnetization, saturating at

${\sim }13\,\%$

when the magnetization, given by the ratio of magnetic energy density to the electron kinetic energy density, is larger than 0.05. Furthermore, we show that this effect requires an ion–electron mass ratio greater than unity. These findings, which could also be tested in currently available laboratory conditions, show that the recent observation of circular polarization in gamma-ray burst afterglows could be attributed to the presence of magnetized current filaments driven by the Weibel or current filamentation instability.
Cytochrome b as a more promising marker for analysing the distribution vector for Metagonimus suifunensis (Trematoda: Heterophyidae)
Authors: Tatonova Yulia V. , Shumenko Polina G.
Published: February 2021

In this study of Metagonimus suifunensis (M. suifunensis) in the Russian Southern Far East, the variability of the full-length sequences of the cytochrome b (cytb) mtDNA gene was assessed for the first time. In addition, the cox1 mtDNA gene sequences were also obtained for this species from new localities. In total, 87 and 81 sequences of the cytb and cox1 genes, respectively, were used in the current study. The cytb gene proved more promising and revealed two haplogroups that are associated with the spatial distribution of the species: geographical isolation caused the fixation of differences between northern and southern populations. In addition, the results obtained for the cytb gene opened up new perspectives in the analysis of sequences of the cox1 gene, which was not sufficiently effective as a sole marker. Based on data for both mitochondrial genes, molecular processes influencing the formation of the modern population were analysed for M. suifunensis. The new data confirmed the previously expressed opinion that this species colonized the study territory from north to south and will form the basis for determining possible ways of its further expansion, which is important for predicting the emergence of new foci of metagonimosis.
Eigenfunctions of the Fourier transform with specified zeros
Authors: FEIGENBAUM AHRAM S. , GRABNER PETER J. , HARDIN DOUGLAS P.
Published: February 2021

Eigenfunctions of the Fourier transform with prescribed zeros played a major role in the proof that theE8and the Leech lattice give the best sphere packings in respective dimensions 8 and 24 by Cohn, Kumar, Miller, Radchenko and Viazovska. The functions used for a linear programming argument were constructed as Laplace transforms of certain modular and quasimodular forms. Similar constructions were used by Cohn and Gonçalves to find a function satisfying an optimal uncertainty principle in dimension 12. This paper gives a unified view on these constructions and develops the machinery to find the underlying forms in all dimensions divisible by 4. Furthermore, the positivity of the Fourier coefficients of the quasimodular forms occurring in this context is discussed.
Applying the Knowledge-to-Action Framework to Engage Stakeholders and Solve Shared Challenges with Person-Centered Advance Care Planning in Long-Term Care Homes
Authors: Heckman George A. , Boscart Veronique , Quail Patrick , Keller Heather , Ramsey Clare , Vucea Vanessa , King Seema , Bains Ikdip , Choi Nora , Garland Allan
Published: February 2021

As they near the end of life, long term care (LTC) residents often experience unmet needs and unnecessary hospital transfers, a reflection of suboptimal advance care planning (ACP). We applied the knowledge-to-action framework to identify shared barriers and solutions to ultimately improve the process of ACP and improve end-of-life care for LTC residents. We held a 1-day workshop for LTC residents, families, directors/administrators, ethicists, and clinicians from Manitoba, Alberta, and Ontario. The workshop aimed to identify: (1) shared understandings of ACP, (2) barriers to respecting resident wishes, and (3) solutions to better respect resident wishes. Plenary and group sessions were recorded and thematic analysis was performed. We identified four themes: (1) differing provincial frameworks, (2) shared challenges, (3) knowledge products, and 4) ongoing ACP. Theme 2 had four subthemes: (i) lacking clarity on substitute decision maker (SDM) identity, (ii) lacking clarity on the SDM role, (iii) failing to share sufficient information when residents formulate care wishes, and (iv) failing to communicate during a health crisis. These results have informed the development of a standardized ACP intervention currently being evaluated in a randomized trial in three Canadian provinces.
Reproductive health conversations in adolescents with CHD
Authors: Lyon Shannon M. , Katz Amy J. , Farrell Anne G. , Shew Marcia L.
Published: February 2021

Background:

Reproductive issues as related to CHD must be discussed in the clinic and at home. Providers can ensure that correct information is imparted to the adolescent and encourage mothers to provide support and guidance to the adolescent. The level to which these conversations occur is unknown.

Methods:

A survey distributed to female adolescent/mother dyads assessed self-reported conversations with the healthcare provider and between each other about reproductive health topics. A clinician survey was completed to assess CHD diagnosis, risk of hormonal contraception, and pregnancy risk.

Results:

Among 91 dyads, 33.0% of adolescents and 42.9% of mothers reported discussing recurrence risk of CHD with the provider. In regard to the cardiac lesion affecting a baby, 30.7% of adolescents and 28.7% of mothers reported discussing this with a provider. Significantly less adolescents and mothers reported discussing the risks of hormonal contraception and pregnancy with a provider. In assessing conversations between adolescents and mothers, only 44.2% of adolescents and 52.3% of mothers reported discussing with each other the safety of using birth control and 46.5% of adolescents and 64.0% of mothers reported discussing the safety of pregnancy.

Conclusions:

Adolescents with CHD and their mothers report low rates of reproductive health-related conversations with the healthcare provider, and mothers report low rates of having these conversations with their daughters. These topics should be discussed at each appointment with the cardiologist and must be encouraged to continue at home.
Religion, Gender, and Representation in American Politics
Authors: Yanus Alixandra B.
Published: February 2021

Several recent analyses have examined the effects of religious beliefs, belonging, and behaviors on the representation of women in American politics. Taken collectively, these studies present an interesting puzzle. Specifically, they demonstrate that religious adherents express attitudes that are less supportive of women in positions of political leadership and that at every stage of the process, from primary candidacy to general-election victory, women are less likely to run and win in districts with greater numbers of religious adherents. However, this does not appear to be the result of even the most devout voters’ unwillingness to support women candidates in general elections. This body of work, therefore, suggests that the effect of religion on the representation of women manifests at earlier stages of the process, including individual vote choice in primary elections, party and elite recruitment, and potential candidates’ strategic entry decisions.