bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical convolutional neural network with atomic nonlinearity
Authors: Yang Mingwei , Robertson Elizabeth , Esguerra Luisa , Busch Kurt , Wolters Janik
Published: April 2023

Due to their high degree of parallelism, fast processing speeds and low power consumption, analog optical functional elements offer interesting routes for realizing neuromorphic computer hardware. For instance, convolutional neural networks lend themselves to analog optical implementations by exploiting the Fourier-transform characteristics of suitable designed optical setups. However, the efficient implementation of optical nonlinearities for such neural networks still represents challenges. In this work, we report on the realization and characterization of a three-layer optical convolutional neural network where the linear part is based on a 4f-imaging system and the optical nonlinearity is realized via the absorption profile of a cesium atomic vapor cell. This system classifies the handwritten digital dataset MNIST with 83.96% accuracy, which agrees well with corresponding simulations. Our results thus demonstrate the viability of utilizing atomic nonlinearities in neural network architectures with low power consumption.
Universal visualization of crystalline orientation for black phosphorus by angle-resolved polarized photoacoustic microscopy
Authors: Mu Gen , Zhang Zhenhui , Cui Dandan , Chen Wei , Shi Yujiao
Published: April 2023

Anisotropic two-dimensional (2D) materials, such as black phosphorus (BP), normally possess unique directional in-plane electrical, optical, and thermal properties that are highly correlated with their crystalline orientations. Nondestructive visualization of their crystalline orientation is an indispensable premise for the 2D materials to harness their distinctive strengths in optoelectronic and thermoelectric applications. Here, by photoacoustically recording the anisotropic optical absorption variation under linearly polarized laser beams, an angle-resolved polarized photoacoustic microscopy (AnR-PPAM) is developed, capable of non-invasively determining and visualizing BP’s crystalline orientation. We theoretically deduced the physical relationship between the crystalline orientation and polarized photoacoustic (PA) signals, and experimentally proved the ability of AnR-PPAM to universally visualize BP’s crystalline orientation regardless of its thickness, substrate, and encapsulation layer. This method provides a new, to the best of our knowledge, strategy for crystalline orientation recognition of 2D materials with flexible measurement conditions, prefiguring important potential for the applications of anisotropic 2D materials.
Quantum-noise-limited distance of coherent transmission using fiber Raman amplifiers
Authors: Inoue Kyo
Published: April 2023

Quantum noise intrinsically restricts the ultimate transmission distance in fiber communication systems that use optical repeating amplifiers. This study theoretically investigates the quantum-noise-limited distance of optical coherent transmission using fiber Raman amplifiers. An analytical formula for the upper bound of the transmission distance is derived based on full quantum mechanics, considering the amplification noise and intrinsic fluctuation of a coherent state (or vacuum noise), and calculations are performed using the derived formula. The results quantitatively indicate that the Raman amplified systems potentially achieve considerably longer transmission distances, more than ten times, than a system with erbium-doped fiber amplifiers under ideal conditions.
Innovationstreiber oder strukturpolitischer Irrglaube?
Authors: Hähnlein Johannes , Küster Anna
Published: April 2023

Unternehmerisches Handeln in Form von Unternehmensgründungen, v. a. Start-ups, treiben Fortschritt und Innovation auf vielen Ebenen an. Sie sind einer der aktuell meist umworbenen Motoren für den wirtschaftlichen Wohlstand unserer Gesellschaft. Immer mehr wirtschaftspolitische Maßnahmen sind darauf ausgerichtet, ebendies zu fördern. Jedoch werden regional starke Unterschiede hinsichtlich des Gründungsgeschehens beobachtet. So spielt die Förderung von Gründungen und der Aufbau sogenannter Gründungsökosysteme (Entrepreneurial Ecosystems) auch in der Regionalpolitik eine zunehmend größere Rolle. Es gilt, jeden Wirtschaftsstandort singulär zu betrachten, Besonderheiten zu identifizieren und die Bedürfnisse der regionalen Akteure zu ermitteln, um passende Maßnahmen zur Etablierung eines solchen Ökosystems abzuleiten. Im vorliegenden Artikel wird ein exemplarischer Standort durch die Anwendung eines Gründungsökosystemmodells auf spezifische Determinanten hin untersucht. Stärken, Schwächen und Potenziale des Wirtschaftsstandortes in Bezug auf seine Rahmenbedingungen für Gründungen werden in zwei Gruppeninterviews (Gründer:innen und unterstützende Institutionen) ermittelt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die zahlreichen Wechselwirkungen eines Gründungsökosystems in den aktuellen Strukturen nicht ausreichend und effizient gesteuert werden und relevante Beteiligte die Effektivität von Ökosystem-Elementen und Fördermaßnahmen differenziert wahrnehmen. Die Untersuchung liefert Erkenntnisse für zukünftige gründungs- und innovationspolitische Maßnahmen und Interventionen in der untersuchten Region und dient damit methodisch als Vorbild zur Untersuchung weiterer regionaler Gründungsökosysteme.
Breaking spore dormancy in budding yeast transforms the cytoplasm and the solubility of the proteome
Authors: Plante Samuel , Moon Kyung-Mee , Lemieux Pascale , Foster Leonard J. , Landry Christian R.
Published: April 2023

The biophysical properties of the cytoplasm are major determinants of key cellular processes and adaptation. Many yeasts produce dormant spores that can withstand extreme conditions. We show that spores ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeexhibit extraordinary biophysical properties, including a highly viscous and acidic cytosol. These conditions alter the solubility of more than 100 proteins such as metabolic enzymes that become more soluble as spores transit to active cell proliferation upon nutrient repletion. A key regulator of this transition is the heat shock protein, Hsp42, which shows transient solubilization and phosphorylation, and is essential for the transformation of the cytoplasm during germination. Germinating spores therefore return to growth through the dissolution of protein assemblies, orchestrated in part by Hsp42 activity. The modulation of spores’ molecular properties are likely key adaptive features of their exceptional survival capacities.
Exo1 protects DNA nicks from ligation to promote crossover formation during meiosis
Authors: Gioia Michael , Payero Lisette , Salim Sagar , Fajish V. Ghanim , Farnaz Amamah F. , Pannafino Gianno , Chen Jun Jie , Ajith V. P. , Momoh Sherikat , Scotland Michelle , Raghavan Vandana , Manhart Carol M. , Shinohara Akira , Nishant K. T. , Alani Eric
Published: April 2023

In most sexually reproducing organisms crossing over between chromosome homologs during meiosis is essential to produce haploid gametes. Most crossovers that form in meiosis in budding yeast result from the biased resolution of double Holliday junction (dHJ) intermediates. This dHJ resolution step involves the actions of Rad2/XPG family nuclease Exo1 and the Mlh1-Mlh3 mismatch repair endonuclease. Here, we provide genetic evidence in baker’s yeast that Exo1 promotes meiotic crossing over by protecting DNA nicks from ligation. We found that structural elements in Exo1 that interact with DNA, such as those required for the bending of DNA during nick/flap recognition, are critical for its role in crossing over. Consistent with these observations, meiotic expression of the Rad2/XPG family member Rad27 partially rescued the crossover defect inexo1null mutants, and meiotic overexpression of Cdc9 ligase reduced the crossover levels ofexo1DNA-binding mutants to levels that approached theexo1null. In addition, our work identified a role for Exo1 in crossover interference. Together, these studies provide experimental evidence for Exo1-protected nicks being critical for the formation of meiotic crossovers and their distribution.
Uptake of reproductive, maternal and child health services during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda: A mixed methods study
Authors: Kibira Simon P. S. , Evens Emily , Giibwa Lilian , Tuhebwe Doreen , Martinez Andres , Kagimu Rogers , Olaro Charles , Mubiru Frederick , Archie Samantha , Ndejjo Rawlance , Namuhani Noel , Akulume Martha , Nabukeera Sarah , Wanyenze Rhoda K. , Makumbi Fredrick E.
Published: April 2023

Use of reproductive health (RH), maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) services in Uganda is suboptimal. Reasons for this are complex; however, service-delivery factors such as availability, quality, staffing, and supplies, contribute substantially to low uptake. The COVID-19 pandemic threatened to exacerbate existing challenges to delivery and use of high-quality RH and MNCH services. We conducted a mixed methods study, combining secondary analysis of routine electronic health management information system (eHMIS) data with exploratory key informant interviews (KII) to examine changes in health service uptake over the course of the pandemic and to understand service delivery adaptations implemented in response. We analyzed eHMIS data for four services (family planning, facility-based deliveries, antenatal visits, and immunization for children by one year), comparing them across four time periods: pre-COVID-19, partial lockdown, total lockdown and post lockdown. Additionally, KIIs were used to document adaptations made for continuity of health services. Use of services declined substantially during total lockdown; however, rebounded quickly to earlier observed levels, during the post lockdown for all four services, especially for immunization for children by one year. KIIs identified several health services delivery adaptations. At the community level, these included: community outreaches, training some mothers as community liaisons to encourage others to seek health services, and support from local leaders to create call centers to facilitate clients transport during travel restrictions. Health facilities creatively used space to accommodate social distancing and shifted providers’ roles. District leadership reassigned health workers to facilities closest to their homes, provided vehicle passes to staff, and ambulances to transport pregnant women in critical need. WhatsApp groups facilitated communication at district level and enabled redistribution of supplies. Ministry of Health produced critical guidelines for continuity of health services. Implementing partners provided and redistributed commodities and personal protective equipment, and provided technical support, training and transport.
Quantifying the interconnectedness between poverty, health access, and rabies mortality
Authors: Taylor Emma , George Katy , Johnson Emily , Whitelegg Hannah , Prada Joaquin M. , Horton Daniel L.
Published: April 2023

The global 2030 goal set by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies deaths, has undeniably been a catalyst for many countries to re-assess existing dog rabies control programmes. Additionally, the 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development includes a blueprint for global targets which will benefit both people and secure the health of the planet. Rabies is acknowledged as a disease of poverty, but the connections between economic development and rabies control and elimination are poorly quantified yet, critical evidence for planning and prioritisation. We have developed multiple generalised linear models, to model the relationship between health care access, poverty, and death rate as a result of rabies, with separate indicators that can be used at country-level; total Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and current health expenditure as a percentage of the total gross domestic product (% GDP) as an indicator of economic growth; and a metric of poverty assessing the extent and intensity of deprivation experienced at the individual level (Multidimensional Poverty Index, MPI). Notably there was no detectable relationship between GDP or current health expenditure (% GDP) and death rate from rabies. However, MPI showed statistically significant relationships with per capita rabies deaths and the probability of receiving lifesaving post exposure prophylaxis. We highlight that those most at risk of not being treated, and dying due to rabies, live in communities experiencing health care inequalities, readily measured through poverty indicators. These data demonstrate that economic growth alone, may not be enough to meet the 2030 goal. Indeed, other strategies such as targeting vulnerable populations and responsible pet ownership are also needed in addition to economic investment.
Genome-wide analyses of LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES in cassava reveal the role of LBD47 in defence against bacterial blight
Authors: Mao Yiming , Abdoulaye Assane Hamidou , Song Jiming , Yao Xiaowen , Zhang Yijie , Gao Yu , Ye Yiwei , Luo Kai , Xia Wei , Chen Yinhua
Published: April 2023

The Arabidopsis thaliana ASYMMETRIC LEAVES2 (AS2) gene is responsible for the development of flat, symmetric, and extended leaf laminae and their veins. The AS2 gene belongs to the plant-specific AS2-LIKE/LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES (LOB)-domain (ASL/LBD), which consists of 42 proteins in Arabidopsis with a conserved amino-terminal domain known as the AS2/LOB domain, and a variable carboxyl-terminal region. AS2/LOB domain consists of an amino-terminal (N-terminal) that contains a cysteine repeat (the C-motif), a conserved glycine residue, and a leucine-zipper-like. AS2/LOB domain has been characterised in plants such as A. thaliana, Zea mays, and Oryza sativum. Nevertheless, it remains uncharacterised in cassava (Manihot esculenta). Characterisation and identification of cassava ASL/LBD genes using the computational algorithms, hidden Markov model profiles (PF03195), determined 55 ASL/LBD genes (MeASLBD1 to MeASLBD55). The gene structure and motif composition were conserved in MeASLBDs, while the expression profiles of these genes were highly diverse, implying that they are associated with diverse functions. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) of target genes and promoter analysis suggest that these MeASLBDs may be involved in hormone and stress responses. Furthermore, the analysis of cis-regulatory elements in promoter regions suggested that MeASLBDs may be involved in the plant phytohormone signal response. The transcriptome data of cassava under biotic and abiotic stresses revealed that MeASLBD46 and MeASLBD47 greatly respond to disease and drought. The MeASLBD47 gene was selected for functional analysis. The result indicated that MeASLBD47 significantly mitigated the virulence of cassava bacterial blight (XamCHN11) through Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS). These findings provided a comprehensive analysis of ASL/LBD genes and laid the groundwork for future research to understand ASL/LBD genes.
Experimental study on the properties of ultra-high-strength geopolymer concrete with polypropylene fibers and nano-silica
Authors: Althoey Fadi , Zaid Osama , Alsulamy Saleh , Martínez-García Rebeca , de Prado-Gil Jesús , Arbili Mohamed M.
Published: April 2023

Because of the recent progress in materials properties, specifically high-strength concrete, further research is needed to evaluate its suitability, understanding, and performance in the modern-day world. This research aims to enhance the performance of ultra-high-strength geopolymer concrete (UHS-GPC) by adding nano-silica (NS) and polypropylene fibers (PPFs). Three 1%, 2%, and 3% different amounts of PPFs and three NS 5%, 10%, and 15% were utilized in the samples. Various performance parameters of UHS-GPC were evaluated, such as fresh property, compressive strength, modulus of elasticity split tensile, flexural and bonding strength, drying shrinkage, load-displacement test, fracture performance, and elevated temperature. The test outcomes showed that by raising the percentage of PPFs and NS to the allowable limit, the performance of UHS-GPC can be improved significantly. The most improved performance of UHS-GPC was obtained at 2% polypropylene fibers and 10% nano-silica, as the compressive, splitting tensile, flexural. Bond strength was improved by 17.07%, 47.1%, 36.52, and 37.58%, and the modulus of elasticity increased by 31.4% at 56 days. The study showed that the sample with 2% PPFs and 10% NS had excellent performance in the load-displacement test, drying shrinkage, fracture behavior, and elevated temperature. At 750°C elevated temperature, the samples’ strength was reduced drastically, but at 250°C, the modified samples showed good resistance to heat by retaining their compressive strength to some degree. The present work showed the suitability of PPFs and NS to develop ultra-high-strength geopolymer concrete, which can be used as a possible alternate material for Portland cement-based concrete.
The Biological and Anthropogenic Soundscape of an Urbanized Port – the Charleston Harbor Estuary, South Carolina, USA
Authors: Transue Lindsey , Monczak Agnieszka , Tribble Caroline , Marian Alyssa , Fair Patricia , Ballenger Joseph , Balmer Brian , Montie Eric W.
Published: April 2023

Soundscape ecology provides a long-term, noninvasive approach to track animal behavior, habitat quality, and community structure over temporal and spatial scales. Using soniferous species as an indicator, biological soundscapes provide information about species and ecosystem health as well as their response and resiliency to potential stressors such as noise pollution. Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, USA provides important estuarine habitat for an abundance of marine life and is one of the busiest and fastest growing container ports in the southeast USA. Six passive acoustic recorders were deployed in the Charleston Harbor from December 2017 to June 2019 to determine biological patterns and human-associated influences on the soundscape. Anthropogenic noise was detected frequently across the estuary, especially along the shipping channel. Despite this anthropogenic noise, biological sound patterns were identified including snapping shrimp snaps (Alpheus spp. and Synalpheus spp.), fish calling and chorusing (Sciaenidae and Batrachoididae families), and bottlenose dolphin vocalizations. Biological response to anthropogenic activity varied among trophic levels, with decreased detection of fish calling when anthropogenic noise occurred and increased dolphin vocalizations in the presence of anthropogenic noise. Statistically, fine-scale, temporal patterns in biological sound were not clearly identified by sound pressure levels (SPLs), until files with anthropogenic noise presence were removed. These findings indicate that SPL patterns may be limited in their interpretation of biological activity for noisy regions and that the overall acoustic signature that we find in more pristine estuaries is lost in Charleston Harbor.
Perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of asthma patients towards the use of short-acting β2-agonists: A systematic review
Authors: Loh Zhe Chi , Hussain Rabia , Balan Shamala , Saini Bandana , Muneswarao Jaya , Ong Siew Chin , Babar Zaheer-Ud-Din
Published: April 2023

Background

Short-acting β2-agonists (SABA), the most potent and rapid-acting relievers are commonly used to provide quick relief of asthma symptoms. However, there is an increasing concern regarding the misuse of SABA medicines.

Objective

This qualitative systematic review aims to determine, evaluate, and summarize the perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors towards the use of SABA from the patients’ perspectives.

Methods

The databases searched included PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Cochrane database. Original research articles reporting the perceptions, attitudes, or behaviors of asthma patients towards the use of SABA, which was available as full text, published in the English language between the year 2000 and February 2023 were included in the review. Commentaries, letters to editor, review articles, and conference proceedings were excluded.

Results

A total of five articles were included. Six overarching themes were obtained: (1) perceptions on health status; (2) perceptions and attitudes towards the impact of asthma; (3) perceptions towards asthma control; (4) perceptions towards asthma knowledge; (5) risk perceptions; (6) perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors towards the use of SABA.

Conclusion

Despite the fact that SABA could rapidly alleviate asthma symptoms, SABA over-users were less likely to describe their health status and asthma control as ‘excellent’. Most SABA over-users did not know that frequent SABA usage would worsen their asthma control, and they exhibited psychological linkage towards the use of SABA. Collaborative efforts between policymakers, healthcare professionals and patients are warranted to reconstruct SABA prescribing practice and usage.
Transaction decision optimization of new electricity market based on virtual power plant participation and Stackelberg game
Authors: Yang Jinpeng
Published: April 2023

This study intends to optimize the trading decision-making strategy of the new electricity market with virtual power plants and improve the transmission efficiency of electricity resources. The current problems in China’s power market are analyzed from the perspective of virtual power plants, highlighting the necessity of reforming the power industry. The generation scheduling strategy is optimized in light of the market transaction decision based on the elemental power contract to enhance the effective transfer of power resources in virtual power plants. Ultimately, value distribution is balanced through virtual power plants to maximize the economic benefits. After 4 hours of simulation, the experimental data shows that 75 MWh of electricity is generated by the thermal power system, 100 MWh by the wind power system, and 200 MWh by the dispatchable load system. Comparatively, the new electricity market transaction model based on the virtual power plant has an actual generation capacity of 250MWh. In addition, the daily load power of the models of thermal power generation, wind power generation, and virtual power plant reported here are compared and analyzed. For a 4-hour simulation run, the thermal power generation system can provide 600 MW of load power, the wind power generation system can provide 730 MW of load power, and the virtual power plant-based power generation system can provide up to 1200 MW of load power. Therefore, the power generation performance of the model reported here is better than other power models. This study can potentially encourage a revised transaction model for the power industry market.
Explaining refugee flows. Understanding the 2015 European refugee crisis through a real options lens
Authors: Peters Linda , Engelen Peter-Jan , Cassimon Danny
Published: April 2023

In 2015 the unprecedented arrival of refugees in Europe posed serious challenges for the EU and its member countries on how to deal with such an influx. A key element in better managing refugee flows is to understand what drives these flows in a certain direction. A refugee who comes to Europe has to make trade-offs in terms of cost and benefits, duration, uncertainty and the multi-staged character of the journey. Real options models are a suitable tool for modelling these kind of decision dynamics. On the basis of a case-study, that compares three routes from Syria to Europe, we demonstrate how well the real options analysis is in line with the development of the refugee flows.
Stable reference gene selection for Ophiocordyceps sinensis gene expression studies under different developmental stages and light-induced conditions
Authors: Tong Chaoqun , Wei Junhong , Mao Xianbing , Pan Guoqing , Li Chunfeng , Zhou Zeyang
Published: April 2023

The molecular mechanism of Chinese cordyceps formation has received a substantial amount of attention because of its usage as traditional Chinese medicine. The formation process of Chinese cordyceps includes two parts: asexual proliferation (Ophiocordyceps sinensisproliferates in the hemolymph ofThitarodes armoricanuslarvae) and sexual development (formation and development of fruiting bodies). Therefore, validation of reference genes under different development stages and experimental conditions is crucial for RT-qPCR analysis. However, there is no report on stable reference genes at the development stage ofO.sinensisfruiting body. In this study, 10 candidate reference genes,Actin,Cox5,Tef1,Ubi,18s,Gpd,Rpb1,Try,Tub1andTub2, were selected and calculated their expression stability using four methods: geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and Comparative △Ct. After comprehensive analysis of the results of these four methods with RefFinder, we determined that the most stable reference genes during asexual reproduction ofO.sinensiswereTef1andTub1, while the most stable reference genes during fruiting body development wereTyrandCox5, and the most stable reference genes under light-induced conditions wereTyrandTef1. Our study provides a guidance for reference genes selections at different proliferation processes with light stress ofO.sinensis, and represents a foundation for studying the molecular mechanism of Chinese cordyceps formation.
Social and self-stigma during COVID-19 pandemic: Egyptians’ perspectives
Authors: Tawfik Ayat Mahmoud , Hayek Noha , Mahdy Sarah Salah Eldien , Elsherbiny Noura Mahmoud , Salem Marwa Rashad , Taie Almass Fathi Hassan
Published: April 2023

Background

Social stigma associated with infectious diseases existed throughout the history of pandemics due to fears of contagion and death. This study aims to assess social and self-stigma resulting from COVID-19 infection and other associated factors in Egypt during the pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 533 adult Egyptians via an online questionnaire. The questionnaire included social stigma toward current and recovered COVID-19 patients and the negative self-image of being a COVID-19 patient.

Results

The mean calculated overall COVID-19-related stigma score for the studied sample was 4.7±3.1. The highest reported stigma category was mild stigma: Social stigma towards current COVID-19 patients (88.2%), Social stigma toward recovered COVID-19 patients (64.2%), Negative self-image for being a COVID-19 patient; perceived self-stigma (71.6%) and total stigma score (88.2%) respectively. The overall stigma score was negatively associated with a higher level of education and getting information from healthcare workers and positively associated with getting information from social networks.

Conclusion

Social and self-stigma related to COVID-19 infection was mild from the Egyptian perspective but found in a large proportion of the population and mainly affected by getting information from healthcare workers or through social media and being more among those with lower education levels. The study recommends more legislative control on social media for disseminating health-related information and conducting awareness campaigns to counteract these adverse effects.
Animal behavior informed by history: Was the Asiatic cheetah an obligate gazelle hunter?
Authors: Farhadinia Mohammad S. , Nezami Bagher , Ranjbaran Ali , Valdez Raul
Published: April 2023

Understanding key ecological adaptations, such as foraging, when a predator is almost extinct is complex. Nonetheless, that information is vital for the recovery of the persisting individuals. Therefore, reviewing historical, ethnobiological and recent records can assist in exploring the species behavioral ecology. We applied this approach to Asiatic cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus venaticus), which once roamed most west and central Asian countries but now is confined to a few dozens in Iran, at historical (pre-1970) and recent (post-1970) scales. We addressed a widely popular perception that Asiatic cheetahs were subjected to prey shifts from gazelles (Gazellaspp.) in open plains areas to urial (Ovis vignei) in mountains because of gazelle populations declines due to anthropogenic influences. We also quantified recent prey choice of Asiatic cheetahs and their behavioral plasticity in foraging different prey species types. Although ethnobiological and historical records suggested that gazelle species were the main prey for cheetahs across their Asian range. However, urial were also commonly reported to be hunted by cheetahs across their historical Asian range, showing that the predation on mountain ungulates is not an emerging hunting behavior in Asiatic cheetahs. We found spatiotemporal plasticity in recent hunting behavior of cheetahs with selective predation on adult urial males. There was temporal overlap in hunting times for plains dwelling versus mountain ungulates, albeit with some minor differences with morning mostly for gazelles while the predation on mountain ungulates was predominantly post-midday. We provided three management implications for the recovery and restoration of cheetahs in Asia. Our work highlighted the importance of historical studies in informing the behavioral ecology of rare species.
Identification of sunflower, rapeseed, flaxseed and sesame seed oil metabolomic markers as a potential tool for oil authentication and detecting adulterations
Authors: Sumara Agata , Stachniuk Anna , Olech Marta , Nowak Renata , Montowska Magdalena , Fornal Emilia
Published: April 2023

Testing the composition, quality and authenticity of edible oils is crucial to safeguard the consumers’ rights and health. The aim of our study was to identify oil-specific markers to enable the differentiation and authentication of sunflower, sesame, flaxseed and rapeseed oils, and to evaluate their antioxidant activity, total phenolic and carotenoid content. A metabolomic approach based on liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry was employed for marker discovery. Spectrophotometric method was used for determination of antioxidant activity, total phenolic and carotenoid content. 76 oil samples from the four different manufacturers were examined. We identified 13 oil-specific markers for sunflower seed oil, 8 for rapeseed oil, 5 for sesame seed oil and 3 for flaxseed oil, their retention times, accurate masses, and characteristic fragment ions are reported. The abundances of the markers for each plant species were found to vary depending on the oil producer and the product batch. Significant differences in antioxidant activity, total phenolic and carotenoid content were also observed both between oils and within oil type. The highest total phenolic content (84.03 ± 4.19 to 103.79 ± 3.67 mg of gallic acid/kg) and antioxidant activity (245.67 ± 7.59 to 297.22 ± 2.32 mg Trolox/kg) were found in sesame seed and flaxseed oils, respectively. Identified metabolic markers can be used as qualitative markers to confirm the authenticity or to detect adulterations of oils. Composition, properties and authenticity testing should be more rigorous for food products marketed as health-promoting.
Merits and limitations of latent profile approaches to teachers’ achievement goals: A multi-study analysis
Authors: Daumiller Martin , Janke Stefan , Butler Ruth , Dickhäuser Oliver , Dresel Markus
Published: April 2023

Research on teacher goals has primarily followed a variable-centered approach, although person-centered approaches have inspired achievement goal research in other domains. The multiple goal perspective posits that individuals pursue different combinations of goals—goal profiles—that might be differentially adaptive or maladaptive. We investigate how beneficial goal profiles may be for research on teacher motivation, using data from three study sets (total N = 3,681) from different countries (Israel, Germany) and institution types (schools, universities). We analyzed whether psychologically meaningful, coherent, and generalizable goal profiles could be identified and compared the explanatory power of profiles and individual goals as predictors of teachers’ self-efficacy and work-related distress. Results showed six psychologically meaningful and largely generalizable goal profiles. Compared to individual goals, profiles only explained little differences in self-efficacy and work-related distress. Given these findings, we critically evaluate achievement goal profiles as a means to study effects of teacher goals.
Understanding asymmetric synergistic effect between movie actors
Authors: Ko JeongRyun , Jung Jason J.
Published: April 2023

Synergistic effects between movie actors have been regarded as an important indicator when they are casted in a new movie. People simply assume that synergistic effect is symmetric. The aim of this study is to understand the asymmetric synergy between actors. We propose an asymmetric synergy measurement method for actor’s star-power-based costarring movies to understand the synergistic effect. When measuring the synergy, we designed it so that it would be possible to measure the synergy that varies with the time of the costarring movie’s release and the synergy of new actors. Measured synergies were analyzed on an actor’s synergy and asymmetric synergy between actors to examine the characteristics of highly synergistic actors and the asymmetric synergy between actors. Moreover, we confirmed that measuring synergies asymmetrically demonstrated better prediction performance in various evaluation metrics (accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score) than measuring synergies symmetrically through the synergy prediction experiment using synergy and asymmetric synergy.
Acute effects of the FIFA11+ and Football+ warm-ups on motor performance. A crossover randomized controlled trial
Authors: Asgari Mojtaba , Schmidt Marcus , Terschluse Benedikt , Sueck Maximilian , Jaitner Thomas
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Few studies including contradictory results have addressed the acute effects of the 11+ on motor performance, indicating a potentially reduced applicability of the program for warming up before competitions. This study aims to compare the acute effects of a soccer-specific warm-up (Football+) and the 11+ on motor performance.

Materials and methods

Thirty-eight volunteer collegiate players (22 males; age = 21.1±1.9 years, height = 1.81± 0.06 m, weight = 73.4± 9.5 kg; 16 females; age = 21.3±1.5 years; height = 1.71± 0.07 m, weight = 67.8± 8.5 kg) underwent the 11+ and the Football+ in a randomized crossover design with a one-week washout. The Football+ starts with a self-estimated 40–50 percent running, followed by dynamic stretching of the hip muscles, shoulder contact, controlled lunge, Copenhagen exercise, and modified Nordic hamstring exercise. The second part involves roughly intensive small-sided games, followed by plyometric and anaerobic exercises in the third part. The warm ups’ effects on performance were determined by a linear sprinting test (20 m), countermovement jump performance (CMJ), Illinois agility (IA), and dribbling speed (DS) tests. Within-subject differences were reported as the means and SD. Pairwise t tests at the significance level of p<0.05 were used to calculate the significant differences.

Results

Overall, except for the CMJ (mean = -0.43±3.20 cm, p = 0.21, d = -0.13), significant differences for the 20 m sprint (mean = 0.04±0.10 s, p = 0.005, d = 0.42), IA (mean = 0.65±0.45 s, p = 0.01, d = 1.43), and DS (mean = 0.60±1.58 s, p = 0.012, d = 0.38) were observed. In females, significant differences observed only for IA (mean difference = 0.52±0.42 s, p<0.001, d = 1.24) and DS (mean difference = 1.29±1,77 s, p = 0.005, d = 0.73), with the Football+ showing superiority. In males, significant differences were found only for 20 m sprinting (mean difference = 0.06±0.09, p = 0.005, d = 0.60) and IA (mean difference = 0.74±0.46, p<0.001, d = 1.62), with the Football+ having superiority.

Discussion

Although practicable for injury prevention, the 11+ may not optimize acute performance and prepare players for high-intensity physical tasks as well as a well-structured, roughly intensive warm-up. Further gender-specific studies should evaluate the long-term effects of the Football+ on performance and injury prevention.
A cross-sectional investigation of back pain beliefs and fear in physiotherapy and sport undergraduate students
Authors: Black Cameron , Mallows Adrian , Waterworth Sally , Freeman Paul , Hope Edward , Liew Bernard X. W.
Published: April 2023

Background

Although low back pain (LBP) beliefs have been well investigated in mainstream healthcare discipline students, the beliefs within sports-related study students, such as Sport and Exercise Science (SES), Sports Therapy (ST), and Sport Performance and Coaching (SPC) programmes have yet to be explored. This study aims to understand any differences in the beliefs and fear associated with movement in students enrolled in four undergraduate study programmes–physiotherapy (PT), ST, SES, and SPC.

Method

136 undergraduate students completed an online survey. All participants completed the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK) and Back Beliefs Questionnaire (BBQ). Two sets of two-way between-subjects Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were conducted for each outcome of TSK and BBQ, with the independent variables of the study programme, study year (1st, 2nd, 3rd), and their interaction.

Results

There was a significant interaction between study programme and year for TSK (F(6, 124) = 4.90, P < 0.001) and BBQ (F(6, 124) = 8.18, P < 0.001). Post-hoc analysis revealed that both PT and ST students had lower TSK and higher BBQ scores than SES and SPC students particularly in the 3rd year.

Conclusions

The beliefs of clinicians and trainers managing LBP are known to transfer to patients, and more negative beliefs have been associated with greater disability. This is the first study to understand the beliefs about back pain in various sports study programmes, which is timely, given that the management of injured athletes typically involves a multidisciplinary team.
How children make sense of climate change: A descriptive qualitative study of eco-anxiety in parent-child dyads
Authors: Léger-Goodes Terra , Malboeuf-Hurtubise Catherine , Hurtubise Karen , Simons Kyra , Boucher Amélie , Paradis Pier-Olivier , Herba Catherine M. , Camden Chantal , Généreux Mélissa
Published: April 2023

The climate crisis not only has significant impacts on biodiversity and the physical health of humans, but its ramifications are also affecting people’s mental health. Eco-anxiety, or the emotions that emerge with the awareness of climate change and the apprehension of its detrimental effects, has been investigated in adults and adolescents, but much less attention has been given to the impacts on children’s mental health and well-being. Initial evidence confirms that youth are significantly concerned about climate change, but few studies have investigated the resulting emotional responses of children and the role of their parents in tempering these, especially using qualitative methodologies. The present study used a descriptive qualitative design with a convenience sample of parents and child dyads, assessed separately. Children’s (n = 15, ages 8–12 years) experiences were explored using semi-structured interviews and their parents’ (n = 12) perceptions were captured using a survey with closed and open-ended questions. A reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data, and content analysis was used to investigate parent-child experiences. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis: 1. children’s understanding of climate change, 2. their emotional reaction to climate change, and 3. their coping mechanisms to deal with these emotions. The comparative content analysis revealed that parents who were aware that their children had concerns about climate change, had children who used more adaptive coping mechanisms. The results of this qualitative study contribute to a better understanding of children’s emotional experience of the awareness of climate change in Canada and how they cope with these emotions. Furthermore, the results provide insight into the role parents might play in helping their children cope with their feelings.
Associations between plasma protein, IgG and IgA N-glycosylation and metabolic health markers in pregnancy and gestational diabetes
Authors: Štambuk Tamara , Kifer Domagoj , Smirčić-Duvnjak Lea , Vučić Lovrenčić Marijana , Gornik Olga
Published: April 2023

Background

Monitoring human circulating N-glycome could provide valuable insight into an individual’s metabolic status. Therefore, we examined if aberrant carbohydrate metabolism in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) associates with alterations in plasma protein, immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) N-glycosylation.

Methods

Plasma protein, IgG and IgA N-glycans were enzymatically released, purified and chromatographically profiled in 48 pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance and 41 pregnant women with GDM, all sampled at 24–28 weeks of gestation. Linear mixed models adjusting for age and multiple testing (FDR<0.05) were used to investigate the associations between glycosylation features, metabolic markers and GDM status.

Results

Fasting insulin exhibited significant associations to numerous glycan traits, including plasma protein galactosylation, sialylation, branching, core fucosylation and bisection, to IgG core fucosylated, bisected (FA2B) and afucosylated disialylated (A2G2S2) glycan and to IgA trisialylated triantennary (A3G3S3) glycan (padjrange: 4.37x10-05–4.94x10-02). Insulin resistance markers HOMA2-IR and HOMA2-%B were mostly associated to the same glycan structures as fasting insulin. Both markers showed positive association with high-branched plasma glycans (padj= 1.12x10-02and 2.03x10-03) and negative association with low-branched plasma glycans (padj= 1.21x10-02and 2.05x10-03). Additionally, HOMA2-%B index was significantly correlated with glycosylation features describing IgG sialylation. Multiple plasma protein IgG and IgA glycans showed significant associations with total cholesterol and triglyceride levels. None of the tested glycan traits showed a significant difference between GDM and normoglycemic pregnancies.

Conclusion

Markers of glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism in pregnancy show extensive associations to various N-glycosylation features. However, plasma protein, IgG and IgA N-glycans were not able to differentiate pregnant women with and without GDM, possibly due to numerous physiological changes accompanying pregnancy, which confound the impact of GDM on protein glycosylation.
The effects of heat-moisture treatment on resistant starch levels in cassava and on fermentation, methanogenesis, and microbial populations in ruminants
Authors: Putra Legi Okta , Suharti Sri , Sarwono Ki Ageng , Sutikno Sutikno , Fitri Ainissya , Astuti Wulansih Dwi , Rohmatussolihat Rohmatussolihat , Widyastuti Yantyati , Ridwan Roni , Fidriyanto Rusli , Wiryawanv Komang Gede
Published: April 2023

Background and Aim: Resistant starch (RS) is difficult to digest in the digestive tract. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of heat-moisture treatment (HMT) on RS in cassava and examined its impact on rumen fermentation. Materials and Methods: Cassava flour was used as a raw material and used in a randomized block design with four different cycles of HMT as the treatments and four different rumen incubations in vitro as blocks. Treatments included: HMT0: without HMT (control), HMT1: one HMT cycle, HMT2: two HMT cycles, and HMT3: three HMT cycles. Heat-moisture treatment processes were performed at 121°C for 15 min and then freezing at -20°C for 6 h. Analyzed HMT cassava starch characteristics included components, digestibility, and physicochemical properties. In in vitro rumen fermentation studies (48 h incubation) using HMT cassava, digestibility, gas production, methane, fermentation profiles, and microbial population assessments were performed. Results: Heat-moisture treatment significantly reduced (p < 0.05) starch, amylopectin, rapidly digestible starch (RDS), and slowly digestible starch levels. In contrast, amylose, reducing sugars, very RDS, RS, and protein digestion levels were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Additionally, a reduced crystallinity index and an increased amorphous index were observed in starch using Fourier-transform infrared analyses, while a change in crystalline type from type A to type B, along with a reduction in crystallinity degree, was observed in X-ray diffraction analyses. Heat-moisture treatment significantly (p < 0.05) reduced rumen dry matter (DM) degradation, gas production, methane (CH4 for 12 h), volatile fatty acid (VFA), and propionate levels. In addition, acetate, butyrate, and acetate/propionate ratios, as well as population of Streptococcus bovis and Bacteroides were significantly increased (p < 0.05). However, pH, ammonia, and organic matter digestibility were unaffected (p < 0.05) by HMT. Conclusion: Cassava HMT altered starch characteristics, significantly increased RS, which appeared to limit rumen digestion activity, decreased rumen DM degradation, gas production, VFAs, and CH4 production for 12 h, but increased S. bovis and Bacteroides levels. Keywords: heat-moisture treatment, in vitro, rumen fermentation, starch modification.
Report on the First ISSP User Conference “Social Inequality”
Authors: Tomka Zsófia
Published: April 2023

Report on the First ISSP User Conference “Social Inequality”.
Effect of the Coronavirus Pandemic on Physical Activity in the Context of Mental Well-Being: A Multi-Country Comparison Among Higher Education Students
Authors: Lukács Andrea , Van Hal Guido
Published: April 2023

Regular physical activity (PA) plays a key role in maintaining physical and mental well-being; and even in pandemic time, it has special importance. This study investigated the changes in patterns of moderate and vigorous PA prior to and during coronavirus pandemic in a diverse sample of 125 higher education institutes from 26 countries. Association between mental well-being and changes in PA was also evaluated. Data for the present study has been used from the “COVID-19 International Student Well-being Study” (2020). 88,270 students of higher education aged 23.29 SD=5.70 years (72.8% females) completed an online questionnaire. Results indicated a global decrease both in moderate and vigorous PA, with women becoming more active than their male counterparts during pandemic time. There was a relationship between the change in physical activity pattern and the mental well-being. The most unfavourable mental well-being was observed in students who reduced or stopped PA. During pandemic, PA has been decreased globally; however, a group of students, particularly female students, took the opportunity to increase the amount of PA. The changes in PA before and prior to the pandemic relate to mental well-being. Implementation of promoting PA during pandemic time has a public health issue.
Immunoglobulin G4-Seronegative Autoimmune Cholangiopathy With Pancreatic and Hepatic Involvement Mimicking as Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Achalu Sudharshan , Berry Rani , Wei Mike T. , Banerjee Subhas , Ghanouni Pejman , Kambham Neeraja , Kwo Paul Y.
Published: April 2023

Immunoglobulin G4-seronegative autoimmune cholangiopathy is a rare cause of biliary strictures. We describe a 27-year-old man presenting with elevated liver enzymes, recurrent cholangitis/bacteremia, biliary strictures, and normal immunoglobulin G4 levels, who was initially diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis, and later listed for transplantation for recurrent bacteremia. Subsequent surveillance imaging demonstrated morphologic changes consistent with biliary strictures and autoimmune pancreatitis. Initiating corticosteroids resulted in liver enzyme normalization and stricture improvement. Diagnosing seronegative autoimmune cholangiopathy remains challenging given similar presentation to primary sclerosing cholangitis. This case highlights importance of a wide differential for biliary strictures, with increased suspicion in those developing pancreatic changes in this setting.