bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the impact of COVID-19 on housing construction activity inside and outside a large city evident? The example of Łódź (Poland)
Authors: Załęczna Magdalena , Antczak-Stępniak Agata
Published: March 2022

The coronavirus pandemic has influenced cities’ shape and future. Telecommuting, teleconferencing, telelearning and e-commerce are creating a new environment of human life. These new factors should be added to the existing problems of urbanisation that are urban sprawl and depopulation. The authors of the paper decided to examine the intensity and spatial distribution of residential construction activity and residential real-estate trade in one of the biggest Polish cities – Łódź – and neighbouring municipalities to answer the question of whether the pandemic has affected housing decisions taken by developers and buyers. Based on statistical data, attempts were made to observe new signs confirming the intensification or weakening of past trends. The research was based on desk research and comparative analysis.
Geographical Educational Path: A new geospatial approach
Authors: Jażdżewska Iwona , Babuca Dominika
Published: March 2022

The mobility of young people during their education has a spatial pattern. This paper presents a new proposal to study the geographical educational path of people. Its elements are points (addresses of schools) and lines connecting successive schools of each of the researched persons. The results can be useful for detecting patterns of educational pathways in different countries, social groups, and comparing them. Indirectly, they can be used to study mobility, gentrification processes in academic cities, and to indicate the range of schools studied. The study was carried out among a group of students at the University of Lodz. Visualisation and analysis of their geographical educational path showed that most of them attended schools near their place of residence, which indicates their low mobility during their studies. Surprisingly, there was a lack of mobility when entering a master’s degree program. The results showed low mobility of students and indirectly of their families during the education period. The all research process would be carried out using Geographical Information System (GIS) tools.
Polsko-rosyjskie spotkania w przestrzeni kultury muzycznej: XIX wiek i początek XX stulecia
Authors: Suchowiejko Renata
Published: March 2022

POLISH-RUSSIAN ENCOUNTERS IN THE SPACE OF MUSICAL CULTURE: THE 19TH AND EARLY 20TH CENTURIES Musicians travel: in their youth, to learn and perfect their métier; later, to gain fame and recognition, secure artistic and financial satisfaction. Circulating music prints reach various recipients at home and abroad, while the production and distribution of such publications depend mainly on the needs and tastes of consumers. Musical instruments provided by the music industry also find their way to many customers. This industry is an integral part of culture as it provides the material basis for creating and performing music. Musical culture emerges ‘in movement’: through encounters and the exchange of people, compositions, ideas, and physical goods. It has its own dynamics and channels of expansion; it relies on extensive and ever changing networks on personal, professional, institutional, and commercial levels. This musical exchange happens across state borders; it is not blocked by geography or politics, although both may affect it to an extent. The present collective work Polsko-rosyjskie spotkania w przestrzeni kultury muzycznej (XIX wiek i początek XX stulecia) [Polish-Russian Encounters in the Space of Musical Culture: The 19th and Early 20th Centuries] attempts to show this exchange through the testimony of historical sources: autographs, music prints, records of social life (concert programmes), and press materials. The main focus of the articles is on the presence of Polish music and Polish musicians in Russian culture; however, there is also a discussion of the opposite perspective, of Russian music and musicians in Polish culture.
Hybrid Intelligence: to automate or not to automate, that is the question
Authors: Van der Aalst Wil M.P.
Published: March 2022

There used to be a clear separation between tasks done by machines and tasks done by people. Applications of machine learning in speech recognition (e.g., Alexa and Siri), image recognition, automated translation, autonomous driving, and medical diagnosis, have blurred the classical divide between human tasks and machine tasks. Although current Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies outperform humans in many areas, tasks requiring common sense, contextual knowledge, creativity, adaptivity, and empathy are still best performed by humans. Hybrid Intelligence (HI) blends human intelligence and machine intelligence to combine the best of both worlds. Hence, current and future Business Process Management (BPM) initiatives need to consider HI and the changing boundaries between work done by people and work done by software robots. Consider, for example, the success of Robotic Process Automation (RPA), which demonstrates that gradually taking away repetitive tasks from workers is possible. In this viewpoint paper, we argue that process mining is a key technology to decide what to automate and what not. Moreover, using process mining, it is possible to systematically monitor and manage processes where work is distributed over human workers and software robots.
The Effects of COVID-19 on U.S. Small Businesses: Evidence from Owners, Managers, and Employees
Authors: Alekseev Georgij , Amer Safaa , Gopal Manasa , Kuchler Theresa , Schneider J. W. , Stroebel Johannes , Wernerfelt Nils
Published: March 2022

We analyze a large-scale survey of small business owners, managers, and employees in the United States to understand the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on those businesses. We explore two waves of the survey that were fielded on Facebook in April 2020 and December 2020. We document five facts about the impact of the pandemic on small businesses. (1) Larger firms, older firms, and male-owned firms were more likely to remain open during the early stages of the pandemic with many of these heterogeneities persisting through the end of 2020. (2) At businesses that remained open, concerns about demand shocks outweighed concerns about supply shocks though the relative importance of supply shocks grew over time. (3) In response to the pandemic, almost a quarter of the firms reduced their prices with price reductions concentrated among businesses facing financial constraints and demand shocks; almost no firms raised prices. (4) Only a quarter of small businesses had access to formal sources of financing at the start of the pandemic, and access to formal financing affected how firms responded to the pandemic. (5) Increased household responsibilities affected the ability of managers and employees to focus on their work, whereas increased business responsibilities impacted their ability to take care of their household members. This effect persisted through December 2020 and was particularly strong for women and parents of school-aged children. We discuss how these facts inform our understanding of the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and how they can help design policy responses to similar shocks.

This paper was accepted by Tomasz Piskorski, finance.

Funding: The authors thank the Norges Bank Investment Management for funding through a grant to the Volatility and Risk Institute atNew York University, Stern School of Business.

Supplemental Material: The data files and online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.4327 .
Synchronous Neoplasms of the Small Bowel: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Miranda Inês , Ávila Leonor , Castro Luís , Rocha Sara , Monteiro Marta , Domingos Raquel
Published: March 2022

Small bowel tumours are rare, representing about 0.5% of all tumours and about 3% of gastrointestinal tract tumours . The low prevalence contrasts with the vast surface area of the small intestine, which accounts for over 90% of the surface area of the digestive tract. The frequency of small tumours decreases from proximal to distal, and therefore from the duodenum to the ileum. The histological types differ in terms of prevalence according to the affected segment, with adenocarcinoma being the most frequent in the duodenum and jejunum and carcinoid tumour in the ileum. Diagnosis is challenging due to clinical non-specificity, low prevalence and a low level of suspicion. Schwannomas are typically benign tumours that arise from Schwann’s cells and are rarely found in the small intestine. It is even more rare to find them together with another histological type, namely adenocarcinoma. No cases have been reported in the literature of these lesions occurring in the small intestine simultaneously. Further studies are needed to clarify the underlying pathophysiology of these synchronous tumours. The authors present the case of an 86-year-old female patient admitted for high intestinal subocclusion, with refractory vomiting and involuntary weight loss. Two synchronous lesions in the digestive tract were identified: an adenocarcinoma in the duodenum and a schwannoma in the ileum. The patient underwent surgical resection of both lesions. A high level of suspicion combined with a multidisciplinary approach is necessary for timely diagnosis and surgical resolution.
Latest thinking on self-regulation
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: March 2022

The positive impact of self-regulation on children's long-term outcomes is one of the strongest and most consistent findings in educational research. With the impact of pandemic restrictions now becoming more apparent in children's behaviour, emotions and approaches to learning, early years educators are thinking about how best to help children develop self-regulation skills.
What's in a word?
Authors: Freeman Helen
Published: March 2022

In this special issue on communication, language and literacy, Helen Freeman talks about the 2021 Oxford Children's Word of the Year and shares some insight on Oxford's latest Children's Language Report, highlighting the role that early years practitioners can play to help children develop the vocabulary they need to thrive.
REVIEWS
Authors: Celinska Angelica , Rawstrone Annette
Published: March 2022

The professional book reviews include a text on breaking down everything that comes before phonics, in order to really support children's holistic learning. We also have a review of ‘Are you ready for your inspection?’. You will find a selection of picture books on the topic of separation and divorce; supporting children through a change in family circumstances. And an additional picture book with the timely theme of the season of spring; with a deeper focus on friendships and supporting others through anxieties.
Why we need to put the ‘children’ back into ‘children's books’
Authors: Strick Alexandra
Published: March 2022

I have always felt incredibly lucky to work in children's books. It's unarguably a colourful world, jam-packed with creativity, imagination and some highly talented people. However I have also always harboured two bugbears, both of which probably arise from me having also worked a lot with children.
Easter egg patterns
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: March 2022

Easter eggs are ideal for inspiring exploration, discussion, understanding, and the creation of a variety of repeating patterns.
Separation and divorce
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: March 2022

The decision to separate or divorce is not an easy one for two adults, especially when there are children involved. It's often a relief when you have finally come to that agreement, and it is the end of lots of uncertainty and heartache but remember that for any children involved it can often be the start of an upsetting period of confusion and disruption.
Hatching chicks
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: March 2022

Watching chicks hatch and being part of their care not only allows children to experience a real wonder of nature, it opens up numerous possibilities for conversations, including: how life begins, how babies grow across the animal kingdom, and caring for those we love around us, and in the wider world.
Factors affecting the pregnancy rate of Bangladeshi ewes following Laparoscopic Artificial Insemination (LAP-AI)
Authors:   Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Akter Suravi , Asaduzzaman Mohammad ,   Department of Livestock Services, Farmgate, Dhaka-1215, Bangladesh, Saha Amit ,   Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Shahi Alam Md. Golam ,   Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Yeasmin Bari Farida ,   Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh
Published: March 2022

The study was conducted to determine the effects of different factors on increased pregnancy rate of Bangladeshi ewes through LAP-AI. A total of 24 indigenous ewes and 4 rams were selected. Frozen semen with a concentration of 100×106 spermatozoa/ 0.25 ml straws were produced. The selected ewes were synchronized using two doses of PGF2α @ 175µg per ewe at 9 days intervals intramuscularly. Estrus was confirmed by the vasectomized ram. The LAP-AI was performed at two different times from the onset of estrus, two angles of placement on the laparoscopic cradle, and two different puncture sites. Pregnancy was confirmed by ultrasonography on days 45-50 following insemination. The pregnancy rate of ewes 2.5-4 years of age and 16-20 kg bodyweight was higher (75% vs. 41.67%) than ewes 1-2 years and 9-13 kg. However, this was not significant (p>0.05). The pregnancy rate of ewes having BCS >3 was significantly higher (p<0.05) (78.57% vs. 30%) than BCS 2-2.5. The 20-24 hours insemination time from the onset of estrus yielded a significantly higher (p<0.05) (75% vs. 25%) pregnancy rate than 12-16 hours. The pregnancy rate was higher (66.67% vs. 50%) at 45° than 30°angle of placement of ewes on the laparoscopic cradle. However, there was no significant difference (p>0.05). The puncture point, 4-5 cm away from the udder resulted from a significantly higher pregnancy rate (p<0.05) (83.33% vs. 33.33%) than 7-10 cm. The present study indicates that the pregnancy rates following LAP-AI using frozen semen could be increased if the significant factors are considered.
Organização da atenção ao câncer de boca nas unidades de saúde do estado da Bahia
Authors: Amorim Marília de Matos , Vinhas Brenda Queiroz , Pimenta Rodolfo Macedo Cruz , Santos Lília Paula de Souza
Published: March 2022

Introdução: No Brasil, o câncer de boca é a quinta neoplasia mais frequente no sexo masculino e décima terceira, no sexo feminino, possuindo elevadas taxas de mortalidade. Assim, a Política Nacional de Saúde Bucal preconiza a sua prevenção e controle na atenção básica. Objetivo: Descrever a organização da atenção ao câncer de boca nas unidades de saúde do estado da Bahia. Método: Estudo descritivo com análise de dados secundários provenientes do terceiro ciclo de avaliação externa do PMAQ-AB 2017. Os dados foram processados e analisados com o auxílio do programa Microsoft Excel 2010 e do Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), versão 22.0. Resultados: Foram analisadas 2.338 Equipes de Saúde Bucal, em 403 municípios da Bahia. A maior parte das equipes realiza ações voltadas para a prevenção e diagnóstico (94,4%), não realiza biópsias (87,4%), mas possui referência para solicitação (79,0%), realiza o registro dos pacientes com suspeita e diagnóstico de câncer de boca e possui uma rede de referência para o tratamento (63,3%). Conclusão: As Equipes de Saúde Bucal da Bahia desenvolvem um trabalho pautado na Política Nacional de Saúde Bucal, no entanto, o estado apresenta alta incidência e mortalidade por câncer de boca.
Óbitos e casos confirmados de COVID-19 na Bahia: descrição do perfil clínico e epidemiológico
Authors: Da Rocha Bruna Vanti , De Macêdo Juliberta Alves , Dias Letícia Rios , De Moraes Marielly
Published: March 2022

Objetivo: Descrever o perfil de casos confirmados e óbitos por COVID-19 notificados no estado da Bahia, no intervalo de um ano. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo observacional descritivo, desenvolvido a partir de dados sobre COVID-19 disponíveis no site da Secretaria Estadual de Saúde da Bahia, do período de março de 2020 a março de 2021. Resultados: Foram confirmados 735.611 casos de COVID-19. O valor acumulado até a data do estudo foi de 13.062 óbitos. Os coeficientes de incidência e mortalidade foram de 4.926 casos para cada 100.000 habitantes e de 87 óbitos para cada 100.000 habitantes. A média de idade dos casos confirmados foi de 40 anos, e, para óbitos, 69 anos. Conclusão: O perfil de casos confirmados é de mulheres adultas, sem comorbidades e que não são profissionais da saúde. O perfil dos óbitos foi de homens, idosos, com comorbidades e com registro do óbito em instituições públicas. O estudo pode oferecer subsídios para o planejamento e execução de políticas públicas de saúde nas diferentes esferas, a fim de contribuir na qualificação dos atores para o enfrentamento da pandemia no Sistema Único de Saúde.
Experience of specialist DVA provision under COVID-19: listening to service user voices to shape future practice
Authors: Richardson Foster Helen , Bracewell Kelly , Farrelly Nicola , Barter Christine , Chantler Khatidja , Howarth Emma , Stanley Nicky
Published: March 2022

In the context of high rates of domestic violence and abuse (DVA) during the pandemic, specialist DVA services have been required to adapt rapidly to continue to deliver essential support to women and children in both refuges and the community. This study examines service users’ experiences and views of DVA service provision under COVID-19 and discusses implications for future practice. Data are drawn from a wider evaluation of DVA services in five sites in England. Fifty-seven semi-structured interviews and five focus groups were conducted with 70 female survivors and seven children accessing DVA services during the pandemic. Analysis identified key themes in respect of the influence of COVID-19 on the experience of service delivery. COVID-19 restrictions had both positive and negative implications for service users. Remote support reduced face-to-face contact with services, but consistent communication counteracted isolation. Digital practices offered effective means of providing individual and group support, but there were concerns that not all children were able to access online support. Digital support offered convenience and control for survivors but could lack privacy and opportunities for relationship-building. The pivot to remote delivery suggests directions where DVA services can expand the range and nature of future service provision.
Looking the other way: how ideology influences perceptions of sexual harassment
Authors: Gothreau Claire M. , Warren Clarisse , Schneider Stephen
Published: March 2022

Little research has systematically examined the relationship between ideology and perceptions of sexual harassment. Recognising differences in the way in which sexual harassment and assault were discussed on political programming and social media by partisans, we posed the following questions: (1) ‘Is there an ideological difference in perceptions of observed sexual harassment?’; and (2) ‘Is there also an ideological difference in perceptions of personally experienced sexual harassment?’ Using data from two studies, we find that conservatives are less likely than liberals to perceive and label both ambiguous and unambiguous situations as sexual harassment. Our third study – a survey of adult women – demonstrates that compared to liberal women, conservative women report significantly fewer instances of personally experienced gender discrimination and sexual harassment than liberal women. These results indicate that both observed and lived experiences of sexual harassment are linked to one’s ideological belief structures.
Photosoliton modes induced by cross–phase modulation in optical media conveying bright-dark vector solitons
Authors: Chenui E. Aban , Dikandé Alain M.
Published: March 2022

It is well known that high–intensity optical fields with soliton features, both bright and dark solitons, can trap and reshape photon fields of lower intensities into optical solitons by means of cross–phase modulation in optical materials with Kerr nonlinearity. In general the induced photon fields are not arbitrarily given, they are well-defined quantum states |ℓ, m〉 of a discrete spectrum which we refer to as quantum photosoliton modes. In this study we propose a scheme for the generation of quantum photosoliton states, by considering linear photon field propagating coupled to a vector high–intensity optical field with coexisting mutually transparent bright and dark solitons. It is found that features of the probe spectrum, specifically the nature, number and degeneracy of the associate quantum modes, depend on the strengths of couplings of the linear photon field to the bright and dark soliton components of the vector–soliton pump. The competition created by these simultaneous couplings leads to a rich variety of photosoliton modes, including modes that are replica of the soliton pump or translation modes of the two components of the vector–soliton pump. For the context where the optical pump consists of a single bright and a single dark soliton structures, it is found that photosoliton modes are all multiple degenerate in addition to being replica of some other modes. However, when the optical pump is a periodic multiplex of bright–dark solitons, photosoliton quantum states retain their identities (i.e. become non degenerate) but some of them are still either replica or translation modes of components of the optical pump.
Entangled photons from composite cascade emitters
Authors: Wang Derek S. , Anali İnci , Yelin Susanne F.
Published: March 2022

One of the most versatile sources for entangled photons are emitters that interact via more than one tunable mechanism. Here, we demonstrate how hybridization and dipole-dipole interactions—potentially simultaneously available in colloidal quantum dots and molecular aggregates—leveraged in conjunction can couple simple, well understood emitters into composite emitters with flexible control over the level structure. We show that cascade decay through carefully designed level structures can result in emission of frequency-entangled photons with Bell states and three-photon GHZ states as example cases. These results pave the way toward rational design of quantum optical emitters of entangled photons.
Resonant and phonon-assisted ultrafast coherent control of a single hBN color center
Authors: Preuss Johann A. , Groll Daniel , Schmidt Robert , Hahn Thilo , Machnikowski Paweł , Bratschitsch Rudolf , Kuhn Tilmann , Michaelis de Vasconcellos Steffen , Wigger Daniel
Published: March 2022

Single-photon emitters in solid-state systems are important building blocks for scalable quantum technologies. Recently, quantum light emitters have been discovered in the wide-gap van der Waals insulator hexagonal boron nitride (hBN). These color centers have attracted considerable attention due to their quantum performance at elevated temperatures and wide range of transition energies. Here, we demonstrate coherent state manipulation of a single hBN color center with ultrafast laser pulses and investigate in our joint experiment–theory study the coupling between the electronic system and phonons. We demonstrate that coherent control can be performed not only resonantly on the optical transition giving access to the decoherence but also phonon-assisted, which reveals the internal phonon quantum dynamics. In the case of optical phonons, we measure their decoherence, stemming in part from their anharmonic decay. Dephasing induced by the creation of acoustic phonons manifests as a rapid decrease in the coherent control signal when traveling phonon wave packets are emitted. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the quantum superposition between a phonon-assisted process and resonant excitation causes ultrafast oscillations of the coherent control signal. Our results pave the way for ultrafast phonon quantum state control on the nanoscale and open up a new promising perspective for hybrid quantum technologies.
Biopsychosocial approach to understanding determinants of depression among men who have sex with men living with HIV: A systematic review
Authors: Mohamad Fisal Zul Aizat , Minhat Halimatus Sakdiah , Mohd Zulkefli Nor Afiah , Ahmad Norliza
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV are more likely to be depressed than MSM without HIV. The AIDS epidemic will not end if the needs of people living with HIV and the determinants of health are not being addressed. Compared to HIV individuals without depression, depressed HIV individuals have worse clinical outcomes and higher mortality risk. Depression is caused by a complex combination of social, psychological, and biological variables. This systematic review, thereby motivated by the need to address this gap in the literature, aims to articulate determinants of depression among MSM living with HIV according to the biopsychosocial approach.

Methodology

We systematically searched four databases from 2011 to 2021. We searched for observational studies on determinants of depression among MSM living with HIV. The outcome is depression based on the categorical or numerical outcome. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed study risks of bias. Any disagreements are consulted with the third reviewer.

Results

We identified 533 articles, of which only eight studies are included. A total of 3,172 MSMs are included in the studies. We found the determinants of depression and categorized them according to biological, psychological, and social approaches.

Conclusion

The determinants of depression with the strongest evidence across studies were enacted HIV-related stigma, unemployment, sleep disturbance, current smoker, black ethnicity, born overseas, ART initiation, and access to mental health care. Despite weaker evidence, the other relevant determinants to be included were older age, internalized stigma, self-efficacy, and social support. Efforts to improve or prevent depression among MSM living with HIV could benefit from addressing the determinants of depression based on the biopsychosocial approach immediately after HIV diagnosis. Integrating mental health screening and care into HIV treatment settings would strengthen HIV prevention and care outcomes and improve access to mental healthcare.
Assassin snails (Anentome helena) as a biological model for exploring the effects of individual specialisation within generalist predators
Authors: Berkhout Boris W. , Morozov Andrew
Published: March 2022

Quantifying feeding behaviour of generalist predators at the population and individual levels is crucial for understanding the structure and functioning of food webs. Individual predator/consumer feeding niches can be significantly narrower than that of the population across animal taxa. In such species, the population of a generalist predator becomes essentially an ensemble of specialist individuals and this often highly affects the dynamics of the prey-predator interactions. Currently, few experimental systems exist that are both easily technically manipulated in a lab and are reliable to accurately assess effects of individual specialisation within generalist predators. Here we argue that a freshwater predaceous snail,Anentome helena(also known as an ‘assassin snail’), is a convenient and reliable experimental system to study feeding of a generalist predator on multiple food types which exhibits well-pronounced specialisation of foraging individuals. UsingA. helenawe experimentally test: (i) how relative prey abundances in the environment affect the feeding patterns, (ii) whether the feeding patterns are consistent over the duration of the experimental period, and (iii) compare the feeding niche breadth of individuals to that of the laboratory population. By offering four different prey snail species, at a range of relative abundances, we show that there are consistent patterns in feeding. Importantly, the consumption of each prey was independent of the relative abundance at which they were present. Individual predators showed selectivity to a particular prey, i.e. the population of assassin snails seems to be formed of individuals that specialise on different prey. Our findings would contribute to the recent revision and the ongoing debate on the classification of predator species into generalists and specialists.
Health inequalities in post-conflict settings: A systematic review
Authors: Bwirire Dieudonne , Crutzen Rik , Ntabe Namegabe Edmond , Letschert Rianne , de Vries Nanne
Published: March 2022

Conflict can be a primary driver of health inequalities, but its impact on the distribution of social determinants of health is not very well documented. Also, there is limited evidence on the most suitable approaches aiming at addressing health inequalities in post-conflict settings. Thus, we undertook a systematic review of the literature concerning the current knowledge and knowledge gaps about structural determinants of health inequalities and assessed the effects of approaches aimed at addressing health inequalities in post-conflict settings. We performed a systematic search in bibliographic databases such as Web of Science, PubMed, and PsycINFO for relevant publications, as well as institutional websites that are relevant to this topic. The search was initiated in March 2018 and ultimately updated in December 2020. No time or geographical restrictions were applied. The quality of each study included in this review was independently assessed using criteria developed by CASP to assess all study types.Sixty-two articleswere deemed eligible for analysis. The key findings were captured by the most vulnerable population groups, including the civilian population, women, children, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and people with symptoms of mental illness. A considerable range of approaches has been used to address health inequalities in post-conflict settings. These approaches include those used to address structural determinants of health inequalities which are accountable for the association between poverty, education, and health inequalities, the association between human rights and health inequalities, and the association between health inequalities and healthcare utilization patterns. However, these approaches may not be the most applicable in this environment. Given the multifactorial characteristics of health inequalities, it is important to work with the beneficiaries in developing a multi-sector approach and a strategy targeting long-term impacts by decision-makers at various levels. When addressing health inequalities in post-conflict settings, it may be best to combine approaches at different stages of the recovery process.
The relationship between income and assets in farms and context of sustainable development
Authors: Grzelak Aleksander
Published: March 2022

The objective of this paper is to identify the relationship between farm income and assets within the European Union (EU) in the context of economic and environmental sustainable development. The scientific context is connected to economic theory (the recognition of the nature of such a relationship, as well as the determination of whether sustainable development acts as a stimulant or destimulant under these conditions). The Farm Accounting Data Network system was employed in the article. The econometric models were estimated by panel data based on the reported results of the farms operations in EU member states for the period of 2004–2018. Accordingly, the relationship between income and assets is positive and statistically significant, but not very clear in the group of surveyed farms. Moreover, economic sustainability was found to positively influences the relationship between income and assets. In contrast, the relationship between incomes and assets was weakened. The situation is brought about by the intrinsic growth in the value of the land, as well as by the growing importance of non-productive assets. Thus, farmers in EU countries are becoming wealthier in terms of the value of their assets but, this is not reflected directly in their income. The reason is the growing importance of environmental and social functions in the agriculture the European Union. Greater skills in asset management at farm level are, therefore, required to mitigate the situation.
Vulnerability assessment of freeway network considering the probabilities and consequences from a perspective based on network cascade failure
Authors: Xu Jinqiang , Huang Hainan , Cheng Yanqiu , Chen Kuanmin
Published: March 2022

Freeway networks are vulnerable to natural disasters and man-made disruptions. The closure of one or more toll stations of the network often causes a sharp decrease in freeway performance. Therefore, measuring the probability and consequences of vulnerability to identify critical parts in the network is crucial for road emergency management. Most existing techniques only measure the consequences of node closure and rarely consider the probability of node closure owing to the lack of an extensive historical database; moreover, they ignore highways outside the study area, which can lead to errors in topological analysis and traffic distribution. Furthermore, the negative effects produced by the operation of freeway tunnels in vulnerability assessment have been neglected. In this study, a framework for freeway vulnerability assessment that considers both the probability and consequences of vulnerability is proposed, based on the perspective of network cascade failure analysis. The cascade failure analysis is conducted using an improved coupled map lattice model, developed by considering the negative effects of tunnels and optimizing the rules of local traffic redistribution. The perturbation threshold and propagation time step of network cascade failure are captured to reflect the probabilities and consequences of vulnerability. A nodal vulnerability index is established based on risk assessment, and a hierarchical clustering method is used to identify the vulnerability classification of critical nodes. The freeway network of Fuzhou in China is utilized to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Specifically, the toll stations in the study area are classified into five clusters of vulnerability: extremely high, high, medium, low, and extremely low. Approximately 31% of the toll stations were classified as the high or extremely high cluster, and three extremely vulnerable freeway sections requiring different precautions were identified. The proposed network vulnerability analysis method provides a new perspective to examine the vulnerability of freeway networks.
Effects of COVID-19 on Japanese medical students’ knowledge and attitudes toward e-learning in relation to performance on achievement tests
Authors: Sekine Miwa , Watanabe Makino , Nojiri Shuko , Suzuki Tsutomu , Nishizaki Yuji , Tomiki Yuichi , Okada Takao
Published: March 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many educational institutions to turn to electronic learning to allow education to continue under the stay-at-home orders/requests that were commonly instituted in early 2020. In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical education in terms of students’ attitudes toward online classes and their online accessibility; additionally, we examined the impacts of any disruption caused by the pandemic on achievement test performance based on the test results. The participants were 674 students (412 in pre-clinical, 262 in clinical) at Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine; descriptive analysis was used to examine the respondents’ characteristics and responses. The majority of respondents (54.2%) preferred asynchronous classes. Mann–Whitney U tests revealed that while pre-clinical students preferred asynchronous classes significantly more than clinical students (39.6%, p < .001), students who preferred face-to-face classes had significantly higher total achievement test scores (U = 1082, p = .021, r = .22). To examine the impacts of pandemic-induced changes in learning, we conducted Kruskal–Wallis tests and found that the 2020 and 2021 scores were significantly higher than those over the last three years. These results suggest that while medical students may have experienced challenges adapting to electronic learning, the impact of this means of study on their performance on achievement tests was relatively low. Our study found that if possible, face-to-face classes are preferable in an electronic learning environment. However, the benefit of asynchronous classes, such as those that allow multiple viewings, should continue to be recognized even after the pandemic.
Removal of fluoride ions from aqueous solution by metaettringite
Authors: Iizuka Atsushi , Ho Hsing-Jung , Yamasaki Akihiro
Published: March 2022

Fluoride contamination is a major problem in wastewater treatment. Metaettringite (which has previously shown enhanced anion adsorption) was investigated as a possible adsorbent to remove fluoride from low-concentration solution (25 mg-F/L). The fluoride removal properties of ettringite and metaettringite were first compared at pH 10, and metaettringite was found to be more effective. The dominant reaction mechanism for fluoride adsorption in metaettringite was found to be recrystallization of metaettringite by rehydration; this was accompanied by precipitation of calcium fluoride. The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second order model. Metaettringite was also able to remove fluoride effectively in low pH environment (i.e., at pH 3.5). The influence of coexistence of sulfate ions in solution on the fluoride removal performance was investigated, and a small decrease in performance was noted. The residual fluoride concentrations obtained with higher doses of metaettringite were lower than those specified by the Japanese effluent standard (non-coastal areas: 8 mg-F/L; coastal areas: 15 mg-F/L). The fluoride removal capacity of metaettringite was compared with those of other solid materials. The observed maximum capacity was 174.7 mg-F/g-metaettringite. In the case of high fluoride concentration solution, the main removal mechanism will be changed to calcium fluoride precipitation. In general, metaettringite is regarded as promising material for fluoride removal in wastewater treatment.
The arginine deaminase system plays distinct roles in Borrelia burgdorferi and Borrelia hermsii
Authors: Richards Crystal L. , Raffel Sandra J. , Bontemps-Gallo Sébastien , Dulebohn Daniel P. , Herbert Tessa C. , Gherardini Frank C.
Published: March 2022

Borreliaspecies are amino acid auxotrophs that utilize di- and tri- peptides obtained through their oligopeptide transport system to supply amino acids for replicative growth during their enzootic cycles. However,Borreliaspecies from both the Lyme disease (LD) and relapsing fever (RF) groups harbor an amino acid transport and catabolism system, the Arginine Deiminase System (ADI), that could potentially augment intracellular L-arginine required for growth. RF spirochetes contain a “complete”, four gene ADI (arcA,B,D, andC) while LD spirochetes harborarcA,B, and sometimesDbut lackarcC(encoding carbamate kinase). In this study, we evaluated the role of the ADI system in bacterial survival and virulence and discovered important differences in RF and LD ADIs. Both in vitro and in a murine model of infection,B.hermsiicells significantly reduced extracellular L-arginine levels and that reduction was dependent on arginine deiminase expression. Conversely,B.burgdorferidid not reduce the concentration of L-arginine during in vitro growth experiments nor during infection of the mammalian host, suggesting a fundamental difference in the ability to directly utilize L-arginine compared toB.hermsii. Further experiments using a panel of mutants generated in bothB.burgdorferiandB.hermsii, identified important differences in growth characteristics and ADI transcription and protein expression. We also found that the ADI system plays a key role in blood and spleen colonization in RF spirochetes. In this study we have identified divergent metabolic strategies in two closely related human pathogens, that ultimately impacts the host-pathogen interface during infection.
Dietary Vitamin E Intake Is Associated With a Reduced Risk of Developing Digestive Diseases and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Scorletti Eleonora , Creasy Kate Townsend , Vujkovic Marijana , Vell Mara , Zandvakili Inuk , Rader Daniel J. , Schneider Kai Markus , Schneider Carolin V.
Published: March 2022

INTRODUCTION:

Vitamin E supplementation is recommended for the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) for nondiabetic patients, but its preventative effects are unclear.

METHODS:

We assessed dietary vitamin E intake with disease phenotypes and evaluated vitamin E levels with the development of NAFLD.

RESULTS:

Data from >210,000 participants demonstrate that increased dietary vitamin E associates with reduced rates of several gastrointestinal diseases and reduced overall mortality. Diabetic and overweight subjects with increased vitamin E intake have fewer NAFLD diagnoses.

DISCUSSION:

Our findings reveal the relevance of vitamin E consumption for several gastrointestinal diseases and warrant further mechanistic and therapeutic investigations.
The estimation of genetic variability and genetic divergence of some advance lines of sesame based on morphological traits
Authors: Roy Barnali , Pal Amit Kumar , Basu Asit Kumar
Published: March 2022

In plant breeding research, naturally existing genetic variability has been successfully utilized to some extent for sustainable production of desirable crops and the diversity in plant genetic resources is most useful part to the breeders . The present experimentwas conducted to estimate thegenetic variation as well as divergence also of 29 sesame genotypes based on morphological traits. The high genotypic co-efficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic co-efficient variation (PCV) observed for number of branches / plant and also for no. of capsules / plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was estimated against seed yield / plant, number of branches / plant and capsules/ plant and HI indicating predominant role of additive genetic components for their expression and also indicating better scope for utilization of direct selection for those traits. The genotypes are grouped into 5 clusters based on 16 morphological traits i.e. Plant height, root length, vegetative dry weight, leaf-area index, days to 50% flowering, no. of branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, capsule length, number seeds per capsule, 100 seed weight, seed yield per plant. The maximum inter-cluster distance noticed between cluster II and IV indicating their most diverse relationship. Genotypes of two clusters with wider genetic diversity and with desirable agronomic traits were selected as promising genotypes for hybridization programs. Crosses can be made between genotypes of cluster II with genotypes of cluster IV to achieve promising recombinants.
Functional conservation and divergence in plant-specific GRF gene family revealed by sequences and expression analysis
Authors: Meng Lingyan , Li Xiaomeng , Hou Yue , Li Yaxuan , Hu Yingkao
Published: March 2022

Unique to plants, growth regulatory factors (GRFs) play important roles in plant growth and reproduction. This study investigated the evolutionary and functional characteristics associated with plant growth. Using genome-wide analysis of 15 plant species, 173 members of the GRF family were identified and phylogenetically categorized into six groups. All members contained WRC and QLQ conserved domains, and the family’s expansion largely depended on segmental duplication. The promoter region of the GRF gene family mainly contained four types of cis-acting elements (light-responsive elements, development-related elements, hormone-responsive elements, and environmental stress-related elements) that are mainly related to gene expression levels. Functional divergence analysis revealed that changes in amino acid site evolution rate played a major role in the differentiation of the GRF gene family, with ten significant sites identified. Six significant sites were identified for positive selection. Moreover, the four groups of coevolutionary sites identified may play a key role in regulating the transcriptional activation of the GRF protein. Expression profiles revealed that GRF genes were generally highly expressed in young plant tissues and had tissue or organ expression specificity, demonstrating their functional conservation with distinct divergence. The results of these sequence and expression analyses are expected to provide molecular evolutionary and functional references for the plant GRF gene family.
Application of the FLP/LoxP-FRT recombination system to switch the eGFP expression in a model prokaryote
Authors: Dan Junhao , Deng Huafeng , Xia Yumei , Zhan Yijie , Tang Ning , Wang Yao , Cao Mengliang
Published: March 2022

In prokaryotes, few studies have applied the flippase (FLP)/P1-flippase recombination target (LoxP-FRT) recombination system to switch gene expression. This study developed a new method for switching gene expression by constructing an FLP/LoxP-FRT site-specific recombination system in Escherichia coli. To this end, we placed the Nos terminator flanked by a pair of LoxP-FRT in front of enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP). The Nos terminator was used to block the expression of the eGFP. When a plasmid expressing FLP was available, deletion of the Nos terminator would allow expression of eGFP. The regulatory effect was demonstrated by eGFP expression. The efficiency of the gene switch was calculated as high as 89.67%. The results showed that the FLP/LoxP-FRT recombinase system could be used as a gene switch to regulate gene expression in prokaryotes. This new method for switching gene expression could simplify the gene function analysis in E. coli and other prokaryotes, as well as eukaryotes.
The development of the encoding of deictic motion in the Bantu language Rangi: grammaticalisation and change
Authors: Gibson Hannah , Belkadi Aicha
Published: March 2022

The close cross-linguistic relation between the domains of space and time has been well described. The frequent emergence of Tense-Aspect-Mood (TAM) markers from deictic motion verbs in particular, has also been extensively detailed in the literature. This paper focusses on the less well-known link between associated motion, a category of functional morphemes expressing (deictic) motion events, and TAM, in a language contact situation. Specifically, it provides a synchronic and diachronic description of three associated motion prefixes,joo-,tóó-andkoo-, found in the Tanzanian Bantu language Rangi, spoken in an area of high linguistic diversity. It proposes that the prefixjoo-encodes movement towards a deictic centre,tóó-encodes movement towards a goal which is not the deictic centre, andkoo-encodes movement away from a deictic centre. It further contends that whiletóó-andkoo-have maintained a purely deictic function,joo-has grammaticalised to assume an additional function whereby it encodes future tense, possibly aided by the absence of a dedicated future tense marker in the language. This three-way morphological encoding of spatial relations on the verb form is not a common characteristic of East African Bantu languages. However, this paper proposes that the system in Rangi can be accounted for on the basis of cross-linguistically widely attested pathways of grammatical change.