bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Care horizons and career choices for women managers
Authors: McKie Linda , Jyrkinen Marjut
Published: January 2021

In this article, we present an analysis of data from four focus groups conducted in Finland and Scotland with women in managerial roles from a range of employment sectors. Increasing longevity has led to burgeoning care needs while necessitating more years in the workplace given financial challenges and career aspirations. We conclude that gendered presumptions about caring, and flexible working, remain prevalent and impact on the life and career courses of women managers. The article contributes to the literature and debates on the ebbs and flows of caring and working across women’s lives.
Inter-sibling violence as a mechanism of hegemony: retrospective accounts from a non-binary and LGBTQ+ sample in the United States
Authors: Martinez Katherine , McDonald Courtney
Published: January 2021

Gender-based violence refers to the violence that gendered individuals, typically women and girls, experience due to patriarchal systems of inequality which position woman and girls as objects of discipline and control. One patriarchal system, the nuclear family, is particularly prone to gender inequality and thus violence. This article engages in a theory-building exercise to explain the gendering of violence as it occurs within inter-sibling relationships. More specifically, it posits that inter-sibling violence serves as a mechanism of heteromasculine hegemony. The authors analysed the retrospective accounts of 31 non-binary and LGBTQ+ individuals’ experiences with inter-sibling violence, focusing on gender within the family in the United States. Data suggest that women and non-binary assigned female at birth (AFAB) individuals are at greater risk for inter-sibling violence than men, although those assigned male at birth (AMAB) may also be at risk if they exhibit subordinate masculinities in childhood. The study highlights how gender-based violence permeates throughout family relationships, including those between siblings.
Experimental investigation of femtosecond laser through-hole drilling of stainless steel with and without transverse magnetic assistance
Authors: Xia Kaibo , Ren Naifei , Lin Qing , Li Tao , Gao Fuqiang , Yang Huayu , Song Shiwen
Published: January 2021

An experimental investigation of femtosecond laser through-hole drilling of stainless-steel 304 with and without transverse magnetic assistance was conducted. The characteristics of the through-hole geometry and sidewall as well as the chemical composition of the through-hole sidewall surface were analyzed. In addition, a theoretical analysis of magnetic-field-assisted femtosecond laser through-hole drilling is proposed. The results showed that transverse magnetic assistance could improve both the femtosecond laser through-hole drilling quality (through-hole geometry and sidewall characteristics) and efficiency. The primary reason is that transverse magnetic assistance changes the distribution of plasma and reduces the plasma density, which weakens the shielding effect of the plasma. However, compared with nanosecond laser drilling, the effect of the magnetic field on the femtosecond laser through-hole drilling was not obvious. A noticeable thermal effect appeared near the through-hole entrance at a pulse repetition rate of 500 kHz, and a heat affected zone and oxidation zone were produced, which is disadvantageous to laser drilling. This research has good prospects for industrial applications.
Sensors based on evanescent field perturbation of microresonators
Authors: da Silva Jaime , Salameh Elie , Ötügen M. Volkan , Fourguette Dominique
Published: January 2021

We consider a whispering gallery mode (WGM) sensor where a dielectric perturber extends into the evanescent tail of the microresonator. The position of the perturber rather than the morphology of the resonator is modified by a change in the measured property, inducing a shift in the WGM. This approach can be used for both three-dimensional (spheres, toroids) and planar (disks, rings) resonator geometries. We demonstrate, through analysis and experiments, the feasibility of this sensor approach for both geometries by using a sphere resonator and an on-chip ring resonator. Experiments show that the motion of the perturber across the evanescent tail on the resonator’s outer surface leads to a measurable shift in the resonator WGM. In the latter experiment, a ferromagnetic structure is attached to the perturber stem so that the system acts as a magnetic field detector. The results show a consistent relationship between the mode shift and the magnetic field strength.
In vivo test-driven upgrade of a time domain multi-wavelength optical mammograph
Authors: Maffeis Giulia , Ferocino Edoardo , Mora Alberto Dalla , Pifferi Antonio , Cubeddu Rinaldo , Taroni Paola
Published: January 2021

A recent upgrade of the time domain multi-wavelength optical mammograph developed by Politecnico di Milano achieved good performance in laboratory tests [Biomed. Opt. Express 9, 755 (2018).10.1364/BOE.9.000755]. However, it proved unsatisfactory when in vivo measurements were finally performed. That led to a further upgrade, including the replacement of the time-to-digital converter with a new model, and the related set-up changes. The new instrument version offers improved laboratory performance (as assessed through established protocols: BIP and MEDPHOT) and good in vivo performance (extension of the scanned breast area, repeatability, consistency of estimated tissue composition with physiology). Besides introducing the new set-up and detailing its laboratory and in vivo performance, we highlight the importance of systematic in vivo testing before entering clinical trials.
Study of fundamental wave depletion in intracavity second harmonic generation
Authors: Flannigan Liam , Kashak Tyler , Xu Chang-Qing
Published: January 2021

In this paper, a novel approach to modelling intracavity second harmonic generation (SHG) in periodically poled MgO-doped lithium niobate (PPLN) is presented and verified against experimental results. This approach involves combining the coupled nonlinear wave equations with a rate equation model for a diode-pumped solid-state Nd:YVO4 laser, taking into account both the depletion of the fundamental wave due to the energy conversion from the fundamental wave to the SHG wave and the reduction of the fundamental wave within a laser cavity due to the loss as a result of the SHG nonlinear process. It was shown that the theoretical simulation matched the experimental results well, while also providing physical insight into the importance of the fundamental wave depletion in the intracavity SHG nonlinear processes. The resulting model is computationally simple and has the potential to generalize to the other nonlinear processes such as three-wave mixing and optical parametric oscillation.
Wavelength-scale optical parametric oscillators
Authors: Jahani Saman , Roy Arkadev , Marandi Alireza
Published: January 2021

Despite recent progress in nonlinear optics in wavelength-scale resonators, there are still open questions on the possibility of parametric oscillation in such resonators. We present a general approach to predict the behavior and estimate the oscillation threshold of multi-mode subwavelength and wavelength-scale optical parametric oscillators (OPOs). As an example, we propose an OPO based on Mie-type multipolar resonances, and we demonstrate that due to the low-

Q

nature of multipolar modes in wavelength-scale resonators, there is a nonlinear interaction between these modes. As a result, the OPO threshold, compared to the single-mode case, can be reduced by a factor that is significantly larger than the number of interacting modes. The multi-mode interaction can also lead to a phase transition manifested through a sudden change in the parametric gain as well as the oscillation threshold, which can be utilized for enhanced sensing. We establish an explicit connection between the second-harmonic generation efficiency and the OPO threshold. This allows us to estimate the OPO threshold based on measured or simulated second-harmonic generation in different classes of resonators, such as bound states in the continuum and inversely designed resonators. Our approach for analyzing and modeling miniaturized OPOs can open unprecedented opportunities for classical and quantum nonlinear photonics.
Observation of second-order meron polarization textures in optical microcavities
Authors: Król Mateusz , Sigurdsson Helgi , Rechcińska Katarzyna , Oliwa Przemysław , Tyszka Krzystof , Bardyszewski Witold , Opala Andrzej , Matuszewski Michał , Morawiak Przemysław , Mazur Rafał , Piecek Wiktor , Kula Przemysław , Lagoudakis Pavlos G. , Piętka Barbara , Szczytko Jacek
Published: January 2021

Multicomponent Bose–Einstein condensates, quantum Hall systems, and
chiral magnetic materials display twists and knots in the continuous
symmetries of their order parameters known as skyrmions. Originally
discovered as solutions to the nonlinear sigma model in quantum field
theory, these vectorial excitations are quantified by a topological
winding number dictating their interactions and global properties of
the host system. Here, we report the experimental observation of a
stable individual second-order meron and antimeron appearing in an
electromagnetic field. We realize these complex textures by confining
light into a liquid-crystal-filled cavity that, through its
anisotropic refractive index, provides an adjustable artificial
photonic gauge field that couples the cavity photon motion to its
polarization, resulting in the formation of these fundamental
vectorial vortex states of light. Our observations could help bring
topologically robust room-temperature optical vector textures into the
field of photonic information processing and storage.
Saturation efficiency for detecting 1550  nm photons with a 2 × 2 array of Mo0.8Si0.2 nanowires at 2.2  K
Authors: Li Feiyan , Han Hang , Chen Qi , Zhang Biao , Bao Han , Dai Yue , Ge Rui , Guo Shuya , He Guanglong , Fei Yue , Yang Shuchao , Wang Xiaohan , Wang Hao , Jia Xiaoqing , Zhao Qingyuan , Zhang Labao , Kang Lin , Wu Peiheng
Published: January 2021

Amorphous materials are attractive candidates for fabricating the superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) due to their superior tolerance and scalability over crystalline niobium nitride. However, the reduced superconducting transition temperature degenerates both operating temperature and saturation efficiency. Herein, the SNSPD (6.5 nm thickness and 50 nm width) based on the amorphous

Mo

0.8

Si

0.2

film with a high optical absorption coefficient demonstrates close-to-unity intrinsic detection efficiency for 1550 nm photons from 75 mK to 2.2 K. Further, a high-performance array SNSPD with optimized 90 nm-width wires is also demonstrated. As-fabricated uniform 4-pixel SNSPD exhibits a saturation plateau for the photon counts at 2.2 K, which overcomes the limitation of operation at low temperature (

<
1
  
K

) for traditional amorphous SNSPDs. Coupled with superior intrinsic quantum efficiency, highly efficient photon counts, and low dark count ratio, this detector paves a way for achieving high efficiency and superior yield for large array systems.
Effects of background spectral noise in the phase-modulated single-frequency seed laser on high-power narrow-linewidth fiber amplifiers
Authors: Liu Wei , Song Jiaxin , Ma Pengfei , Xiao Hu , Zhou Pu
Published: January 2021

In this work, we analyze the effects of the background spectral noise in phase-modulated single-frequency seed lasers on the spectral purity of high-power narrow-linewidth fiber amplifiers. Through demonstrating the spectral evolution of the phase-modulated single-frequency part and the background spectral noise in a narrow-linewidth fiber amplifier, the mechanism for the spectral wing broadening effect is clarified and design strategies to maintain high spectral purity are given. Specifically, the background spectral noise in phase-modulated single-frequency seed lasers could lead to obvious spectral wing broadening and degeneration of spectral purity in narrow-linewidth fiber amplifiers through the four-wave-mixing effect. Notably, the spectral wing broadening effect could be suppressed by filtering out the background spectral noise in the seed laser or applying a counter-pumped configuration in the fiber amplifier. We have also conducted contrast experiments, which have verified the validity of the theoretical model and the design strategies for high-spectral-purity operation.
Ocean acidification boosts reproduction in fish via indirect effects
Authors: Nagelkerken Ivan , Alemany Tiphaine , Anquetin Julie M. , Ferreira Camilo M. , Ludwig Kim E. , Sasaki Minami , Connell Sean D.
Published: January 2021

Ocean acidification affects species populations and biodiversity through direct negative effects on physiology and behaviour. The indirect effects of elevated CO2 are less well known and can sometimes be counterintuitive. Reproduction lies at the crux of species population replenishment, but we do not know how ocean acidification affects reproduction in the wild. Here, we use natural CO2 vents at a temperate rocky reef and show that even though ocean acidification acts as a direct stressor, it can indirectly increase energy budgets of fish to stimulate reproduction at no cost to physiological homeostasis. Female fish maintained energy levels by compensation: They reduced activity (foraging and aggression) to increase reproduction. In male fish, increased reproductive investment was linked to increased energy intake as mediated by intensified foraging on more abundant prey. Greater biomass of prey at the vents was linked to greater biomass of algae, as mediated by a fertilisation effect of elevated CO2 on primary production. Additionally, the abundance and aggression of paternal carers were elevated at the CO2 vents, which may further boost reproductive success. These positive indirect effects of elevated CO2 were only observed for the species of fish that was generalistic and competitively dominant, but not for 3 species of subordinate and more specialised fishes. Hence, species that capitalise on future resource enrichment can accelerate their reproduction and increase their populations, thereby altering species communities in a future ocean.
Consequences of adaptation of TAL effectors on host susceptibility to Xanthomonas
Authors: Teper Doron , Wang Nian
Published: January 2021

Transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) are virulence factors ofXanthomonasthat induce the expression of host susceptibility (S) genes by specifically binding to effector binding elements (EBEs) in their promoter regions. The DNA binding specificity of TALEs is dictated by their tandem repeat regions, which are highly variable between different TALEs. Mutation of the EBEs of S genes is being utilized as a key strategy to generate resistant crops against TALE-dependent pathogens. However, TALE adaptations through rearrangement of their repeat regions is a potential obstacle for successful implementation of this strategy. We investigated the consequences of TALE adaptations in the citrus pathogenXanthomonas citrisubsp.citri(Xcc), in which PthA4 is the TALE required for pathogenicity, whereasCsLOB1is the corresponding susceptibility gene, on host resistance. Seven TALEs, containing two-to-nine mismatching-repeats to the EBEPthA4that were unable to induceCsLOB1expression, were introduced intoXcc pthA4:Tn5 and adaptation was simulated by repeated inoculations into and isolations from sweet orange for a duration of 30 cycles. While initially all strains failed to promote disease, symptoms started to appear between 9–28 passages in four TALEs, which originally harbored two-to-five mismatches. Sequence analysis of adapted TALEs identified deletions and mutations within the TALE repeat regions which enhanced putative affinity to theCsLOB1promoter. Sequence analyses suggest that TALEs adaptations result from recombinations between repeats of the TALEs. Reintroduction of these adapted TALEs intoXcc pthA4:Tn5 restored the ability to induce the expression ofCsLOB1, promote disease symptoms and colonize host plants. TALEs harboring seven-to-nine mismatches were unable to adapt to overcome the incompatible interaction. Our study experimentally documented TALE adaptations to incompatible EBE and provided strategic guidance for generation of disease resistant crops against TALE-dependent pathogens.
Tumor Necrosis Factor and Schistosoma mansoni egg antigen omega-1 shape distinct aspects of the early egg-induced granulomatous response
Authors: Takaki Kevin K. , Roca Francisco J. , Schramm Gabriele , Wilbers Ruud H. P. , Ittiprasert Wannaporn , Brindley Paul J. , Rinaldi Gabriel , Berriman Matthew , Ramakrishnan Lalita , Pagán Antonio J.
Published: January 2021

Infections by schistosomes result in granulomatous lesions around parasite eggs entrapped within the host tissues. The host and parasite determinants of theSchistosoma mansoniegg-induced granulomatous response are areas of active investigation. Some studies in mice implicate Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) produced in response to the infection whereas others fail to find a role for it. In addition, in the mouse model, theS.mansonisecreted egg antigen omega-1 is found to induce granulomas but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. We have recently developed the zebrafish larva as a model to study macrophage recruitment and granuloma formation in response toSchistosoma mansonieggs. Here we use this model to investigate the mechanisms by which TNF and omega-1 shape the early granulomatous response. We find that TNF, specifically signaling through TNF receptor 1, is not required for macrophage recruitment to the egg and granuloma initiation but does mediate granuloma enlargement. In contrast, omega-1 mediates initial macrophage recruitment, with this chemotactic activity being dependent on its RNase activity. Our findings further the understanding of the role of these host- and parasite-derived factors and show that they impact distinct facets of the granulomatous response to the schistosome egg.
The Mbam drainage system and onchocerciasis transmission post ivermectin mass drug administration (MDA) campaign, Cameroon
Authors: Abong Raphael Awah , Amambo Glory Ngongeh , Hamid Ali Ahamat , Enow Belinda Agbor , Beng Amuam Andrew , Nietcho Franck Noel , Nji Theobald Mue , Njouendou Abdel Jelil , Ritter Manuel , Esum Mathias Eyong , Deribe Kebede , Cho Jerome Fru , Fombad Fanny Fri , Enyong Peter Ivo , Poole Catherine , Pfarr Kenneth , Hoerauf Achim , Carlow Clotilde , Wanji Samuel
Published: January 2021

Background

The impact of large scale Mass Drug Adminstration (MDA) of ivermectin on active onchocerciasis transmission by Simulium damnosum, which transmits the parasite O. volvulus is of great importance for onchocerciasis control programmes. We investigated in the Mbam river system area, the impact of MDA of ivermectin on entomological indices and also verify if there are river system factors that could have favoured the transmission of onchocerciasis in this area and contribute to the persistence of disease. We compared three independent techniques to detect Onchocerca larvae in blackflies and also analyzed the river system within 9 months post-MDA of ivermectin.

Method

Simulium flies were captured before and after 1, 3, 6 and 9months of ivermectin-MDA. The biting rate was determined and 41% of the flies dissected while the rest were grouped into pools of 100 flies for DNA extraction. The extracted DNA was then subjected to O-150 LAMP and real-time PCR for the detection of infection by Onchocerca species using pool screening. The river system was analysed and the water discharge compared between rainy and dry seasons.

Principal findings

We used human landing collection method (previously called human bait) to collect 22,274 adult female Simulium flies from Mbam River System. Of this number, 9,134 were dissected while 129 pools constituted for molecular screening. Overall biting and parous rates of 1113 flies/man/day and 24.7%, respectively, were observed. All diagnostic techniques detected similar rates of O. volvulus infection (P = 0.9252) and infectivity (P = 0.4825) at all monitoring time points. Onchocerca ochengi larvae were only detected in 2 of the 129 pools. Analysis of the river drainage revealed two hydroelectric dams constructed on the tributaries of the Mbam river were the key contributing factor to the high-water discharge during both rainy and dry seasons.

Conclusion

Results from fly dissection (Microscopy), real-time PCR and LAMP revealed the same trends pre- and post-MDA. The infection rate with animal Onchocerca sp was exceptionally low. The dense river system generate important breeding sites that govern the abundance of Simulium during both dry and rainy seasons.
Sociodemographic predictors of knowledge, mosquito bite patterns and protective behaviors concerning vector borne disease: The case of dengue fever in Chinese subtropical city, Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Emily Ying Yang , Lo Eugene Siu Kai , Huang Zhe , Lam Holly Ching Yu , Yeung May Pui-shan , Kwok Kin-on , Hung Kevin Kei Ching , Tse Shelly Lap-ah
Published: January 2021

Geographic pattern of dengue fever is changing due to the global environmental and climate changes in the 21stcentury. Evidence of community’s knowledge, mosquito bite patterns and protective behavior practices in non-endemic regions is limited. This study examined the knowledge of dengue, mosquito bite patterns, protective behavior practices and their associated factors in Hong Kong, a non-endemic subtropical city. A population-based random telephone survey (n = 590) was conducted three weeks after the government announcement of a local dengue outbreak in August 2018. Sociodemographic status, awareness, knowledge, protective measures, bite patterns of mosquito were collected. Results indicated high level of community awareness of the local outbreak (95.2%), symptom identification (84.0%) and adoption of at least one mosquito protective measures (nearly 80%). About 40% of respondents reported that they were bitten by mosquitoes during the study period, a high mosquito season in Hong Kong. Mosquito bites were prevalent near grassy area (63.4%), at home (42.6%) and at public transportation waiting spots (39.6%). Younger people (< 25 years old), female, those who lived on lower floors (≤the 6th) and near grassy area were at higher risk of mosquito bites at home. Respondents perceived higher threat of dengue to society were more likely to practice mosquito prevention. While residential factors affected their indoor prevention, other socio-demographic factors affected the outdoor prevention. Practicing prevention behaviors were associated with self-reported mosquito bite at home. Furthermore, the general prevention uptake rate unchanged after the announcement of local dengue outbreak. Although the uptake rate of protective measures during August was high, 40% participants reported they were bitten. Also public locations are more common area for bites, which suggested stronger mosquito prevention and control on public environments and more personal protective behaviors should be advocated.
Factors affecting the uptake of preventive chemotherapy treatment for schistosomiasis in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review
Authors: Torres-Vitolas Carlos A. , Dhanani Neerav , Fleming Fiona M.
Published: January 2021

Background

Schistosomiasis affects nearly 220 million people worldwide, mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Preventive chemotherapy (PC) treatment, through regular mass-drug administration (MDA) of Praziquantel tablets remains the control measure of choice by Ministries of Health. Current guidelines recommend that 75% of school-aged children receive treatment. Many programmes, however, struggle to achieve this target. Given the risk of high reinfection rates, attaining sustained high levels of treatment coverage is essential. This study provides a comprehensive review of the barriers and facilitators operating at different levels of analysis, from the individual to the policy level, conditioning the uptake of PC for schistosomiasis in SSA.

Methodology/Principal findings

A systematic literature search was conducted in several databases for publications released between January 2002 and 2019 that examined factors conditioning the uptake of Praziquantel in the context of MDA campaigns in SSA. A total of 2,258 unique abstracts were identified, of which 65 were selected for full text review and 30 met all eligibility criteria. Joanna Briggs Institute’s Critical Appraisal and the Mixed-Methods Assessment tools were used to assess the strength of the evidence. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42017058525).

A meta-synthesis approach was used. Results indicated publication bias, with the literature focusing on East African rural settings and evidence at the individual and programmatic levels. The main influencing factors identified included material wellbeing, drug properties, knowledge and attitudes towards schistosomiasis and MDAs, fears of side effects, gender values, community and health systems support, alongside programme design features, like training, sensitisation, and provision of incentives for drug-distributors. The effect of these factors on determining Praziquantel uptake were explored in detail.

Conclusions/Significance

Multiple determinants of treatment uptake were found in each level of analysis examined. Some of them interact with each other, thus affecting outcomes directly and indirectly. The promotion of context-based transdisciplinary research on the complex dynamics of treatment uptake is not only desirable, but essential, to design effective strategies to attain high levels of treatment coverage.
Metropolitan age-specific mortality trends at borough and neighborhood level: The case of Mexico City
Authors: Baca-López Karol , Fresno Cristóbal , Espinal-Enríquez Jesús , Flores-Merino Miriam V. , Camacho-López Miguel A. , Hernández-Lemus Enrique
Published: January 2021

Understanding the spatial and temporal patterns of mortality rates in a highly heterogeneous metropolis, is a matter of public policy interest. In this context, there is no, to the best of our knowledge, previous studies that correlate both spatio-temporal and age-specific mortality rates in Mexico City. Spatio-temporal Kriging modeling was used over five age-specific mortality rates (from the years 2000 to 2016 in Mexico City), to gain both spatial (borough and neighborhood) and temporal (year and trimester) data level description. Mortality age-specific patterns have been modeled using multilevel modeling for longitudinal data. Posterior tests were carried out to compare mortality averages between geo-spatial locations. Mortality correlation extends in all study groups for as long as 12 years and as far as 13.27 km. The highest mortality rate takes place in the Cuauhtémoc borough, the commercial, touristic and cultural core downtown of Mexico City. On the contrary, Tlalpan borough is the one with the lowest mortality rates in all the study groups. Post-productive mortality is the first age-specific cause of death, followed by infant, productive, pre-school and scholar groups. The combinations of spatio-temporal Kriging estimation and time-evolution linear mixed-effect models, allowed us to unveil relevant time and location trends that may be useful for public policy planning in Mexico City.
Automatic classification of mice vocalizations using Machine Learning techniques and Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Premoli Marika , Baggi Daniele , Bianchetti Marco , Gnutti Alessandro , Bondaschi Marco , Mastinu Andrea , Migliorati Pierangelo , Signoroni Alberto , Leonardi Riccardo , Memo Maurizio , Bonini Sara Anna
Published: January 2021

Ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) analysis is a well-recognized tool to investigate animal communication. It can be used for behavioral phenotyping of murine models of different disorders. The USVs are usually recorded with a microphone sensitive to ultrasound frequencies and they are analyzed by specific software. Different calls typologies exist, and each ultrasonic call can be manually classified, but the qualitative analysis is highly time-consuming. Considering this framework, in this work we proposed and evaluated a set of supervised learning methods for automatic USVs classification. This could represent a sustainable procedure to deeply analyze the ultrasonic communication, other than a standardized analysis. We used manually built datasets obtained by segmenting the USVs audio tracks analyzed with the Avisoft software, and then by labelling each of them into 10 representative classes. For the automatic classification task, we designed a Convolutional Neural Network that was trained receiving as input the spectrogram images associated to the segmented audio files. In addition, we also tested some other supervised learning algorithms, such as Support Vector Machine, Random Forest and Multilayer Perceptrons, exploiting informative numerical features extracted from the spectrograms. The performance showed how considering the whole time/frequency information of the spectrogram leads to significantly higher performance than considering a subset of numerical features. In the authors’ opinion, the experimental results may represent a valuable benchmark for future work in this research field.
Multi-criteria suitability analysis for neglected and underutilised crop species in South Africa
Authors: Mugiyo Hillary , Chimonyo Vimbayi G. P. , Sibanda Mbulisi , Kunz Richard , Nhamo Luxon , Masemola Cecelia R. , Dalin Caroline , Modi Albert T. , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwa
Published: January 2021

Several neglected and underutilised species (NUS) provide solutions to climate change and creating a Zero Hunger world, the Sustainable Development Goal 2. Several NUS are drought and heat stress-tolerant, making them ideal for improving marginalised cropping systems in drought-prone areas. However, owing to their status as NUS, current crop suitability maps do not include them as part of the crop choices. This study aimed to develop land suitability maps for selected NUS [sorghum, (Sorghum bicolor), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), amaranth and taro (Colocasia esculenta)] using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in ArcGIS. Multidisciplinary factors from climatic, soil and landscape, socio-economic and technical indicators overlaid using Weighted Overlay Analysis. Validation was done through field visits, and area under the curve (AUC) was used to measure AHP model performance. The results indicated that sorghum was highly suitable (S1) = 2%, moderately suitable (S2) = 61%, marginally suitable (S3) = 33%, and unsuitable (N1) = 4%, cowpea S1 = 3%, S2 = 56%, S3 = 39%, N1 = 2%, amaranth S1 = 8%, S2 = 81%, S3 = 11%, and taro S1 = 0.4%, S2 = 28%, S3 = 64%, N1 = 7%, of calculated arable land of SA (12 655 859 ha). Overall, the validation showed that the mapping exercises exhibited a high degree of accuracies (i.e. sorghum AUC = 0.87, cowpea AUC = 0.88, amaranth AUC = 0.95 and taro AUC = 0.82). Rainfall was the most critical variable and criteria with the highest impact on land suitability of the NUS. Results of this study suggest that South Africa has a huge potential for NUS production. The maps developed can contribute to evidence-based and site-specific recommendations for NUS and their mainstreaming. Also, the maps can be used to design appropriate production guidelines and to support existing policy frameworks which advocate for sustainable intensification of marginalised cropping systems through increased crop diversity and the use of stress-tolerant food crops.
Effect of high-intensity interval training on metabolic parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Santos Isis Kelly dos , Nunes Fernando Antônio Santana de Souza , Queiros Victor Sabino , Cobucci Ricardo Ney , Dantas Pedro Bruch , Soares Gustavo Mafaldo , Cabral Breno Guilherme de Araújo Tinoco , Maranhão Tecia Maria de Oliveira , Dantas Paulo Moreira Silva
Published: January 2021

Background

Our aim was to assess the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on metabolic parameters and body composition in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Methods and analysis

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted using Embase, MEDLINE (via Ovid), PubMed, Sport Discus, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar (advanced feature) up to September 2020. Two authors independently screened citations and determined the risk of bias and quality of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Meta-analyses were conducted using random effects model.

Results

Seven trials (n = 423) were included in the systematic review. The studies included HIIT interventions vs. moderate exercise or control groups. Most studies were small (average 32, range 24–110 participants) and of relatively short duration (10–16 weeks). The training intensity was performed between 90% and 95% of the maximum heart rate, three times a week, for at least 10 weeks. Insulin resistance, measured using homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and body mass index (BMI) showed a significant decrease (MD −0.57; 95% CI, −0.98 to −0.16, p = 0.01), (MD −1.90, 95% CI −3.37, −0.42, p = 0.01) with moderate and high certainty of evidence, respectively.

Conclusion

Results support that HIIT alone is effective for reducing HOMA-IR and BMI in women with PCOS. However, evidence is limited to discern the effect of HIIT on other outcomes. Future studies with a longer duration (> 16 weeks), larger sample sizes and other outcomes are needed.
Growth, proportion, and distribution pattern of longleaf pine across southeastern forests and disturbance types: A change assessment for the period 1997-2018
Authors: Ojha Santosh K. , Dimov Luben D. , Tadesse Wubishet
Published: January 2021

The long-term decline of longleaf pine-dominated forests has received considerable attention among land managers and conservation professionals in the last few decades. The objective of this study was to investigate the change in and the variation of the proportion, density, growth, and dominance of longleaf pine across the longleaf pine ecosystems for the 1997–2018 period. We used two sets of measurements of 1,432 plots from the Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) dataset covering the entire current longleaf pine range. The relationship between disturbances and longleaf pine basal area ratio and basal area growth were analyzed using linear mixed modeling. Change detection maps were produced using the Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) interpolation method. The total basal area and aboveground biomass per hectare increased in 64% and 72%, but decreased in 30% and 28% of the study area, respectively, between the first and last inventory intervals. Species richness and diversity generally decreased across the studied plots. Longleaf pine tree density and importance value percent increased during the period. However, longleaf basal area ratio and aboveground biomass ratio in the stands decreased on average by 5% during the period, although these ratios increased in some locations in southwest Georgia and near the west coast of Florida. The longleaf pine basal area ratio and aboveground biomass ratio decreased equally in 37%, and increased in 19% and 21% of the study area, respectively. There was about 79% variation in the ratio of longleaf pine basal area among plots. When compared to the natural control of no disturbance, fire disturbance was significantly associated with greater longleaf pine basal area ratio and basal area growth. Understanding the change in growth and distribution patterns of longleaf pine across its range over time is vital to restore these critical ecosystems.
Hmx1 regulates urfh1 expression in the craniofacial region in zebrafish
Authors: El Fersioui Younes , Pinton Gaëtan , Allaman-Pillet Nathalie , Schorderet Daniel F.
Published: January 2021

H6 family homeobox 1 (HMX1) regulates multiple aspects of craniofacial development as it is widely expressed in the eye, peripheral ganglia and branchial arches. Mutations in HMX1 are linked to an ocular defect termed Oculo-auricular syndrome of Schorderet-Munier-Franceschetti (MIM #612109). We identified UHRF1 as a target of HMX1 during development. UHRF1 and its partner proteins actively regulate chromatin modifications and cellular proliferation. Luciferase assays and in situ hybridization analyses showed that HMX1 exerts a transcriptional inhibitory effect on UHRF1 and a modification of its expression pattern. Overexpression of hmx1 in hsp70-hmx1 zebrafish increased uhrf1 expression in the cranial region, while mutations in the hmx1 dimerization domains reduced uhrf1 expression. Moreover, the expression level of uhrf1 and its partner dnmt1 was increased in the eye field in response to hmx1 overexpression. These results indicate that hmx1 regulates uhrf1 expression and, potentially through regulating the expression of factors involved in DNA methylation, contribute to the development of the craniofacial region of zebrafish.
A behavioral economic risk aversion experiment in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kluwe-Schiavon Bruno , Viola Thiago Wendt , Bandinelli Lucas Poitevin , Castro Sayra Catalina Coral , Kristensen Christian Haag , Costa da Costa Jaderson , Grassi-Oliveira Rodrigo
Published: January 2021

We investigated what degree of risk of infection with COVID-19 is necessary so that people intend to stay home, even when doing so means losing their salary. We conducted an online survey across Brazil during the initial outbreak, in which 8,345 participants answered a questionnaire designed to identify the maximum tolerated risk (k’) necessary for them to disregard social distancing recommendations and guarantee their salaries. Generalized linear mixed models, path analysis structural equation, and conditional interference classification tree were performed to further understand how sociodemographic factors impact k’ and to establish a predictive model for the risk behavior of leaving home during the pandemic. We found that, on average, people tolerate 38% risk of infection to leave home and earn a full salary, but this number decreased to 13% when the individual risk perception of becoming ill from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 is considered. Furthermore, participants who have a medium-to-high household income and who are older than 35 years are more likely to be part of the risk-taking group who leave home regardless of the potential COVID-19 infection level; while participants over 45 years old and with good financial health are more likely to be part of the risk-averse group, who stay home at the expense of any salary offered. Our findings add to the political and public debate concerning lockdown strategies by showing that, contrary to supposition, people with low socioeconomic status are not more likely to ignore social distancing recommendations due to personal economic matters.
Risk of 28-day readmissions among stroke patients in Malaysia (2008–2015): Trends, causes and its associated factors
Authors: Ang Swee Hung , Hwong Wen Yea , Bots Michiel L. , Sivasampu Sheamini , Abdul Aziz Aznida Firzah , Hoo Fan Kee , Vaartjes Ilonca
Published: January 2021

Background and objectives

Risk of readmissions is an important quality indicator for stroke care. Such information is limited among low- and middle-income countries. We assessed the trends for 28-day readmissions after a stroke in Malaysia from 2008 to 2015 and evaluated the causes and factors associated with readmissions in 2015.

Methods

Using the national hospital admission records database, we included all stroke patients who were discharged alive between 2008 and 2015 for this secondary data analysis. The risk of readmissions was described in proportion and trends. Reasons were coded according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with readmissions.

Results

Among 151729 patients, 11 to 13% were readmitted within 28 days post-discharge from their stroke events each year. The trend was constant for ischemic stroke but decreasing for hemorrhagic stroke. The leading causes for readmissions were recurrent stroke (32.1%), pneumonia (13.0%) and sepsis (4.8%). The risk of 28-day readmission was higher among those with stroke of hemorrhagic (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.52) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (AOR: 2.56) subtypes, and length of index admission >3 days (AOR: 1.48), but lower among younger age groups of 35–64 (AORs: 0.61–0.75), p values <0.001.

Conclusion

The risk of 28-day readmission remained constant from 2008 to 2015, where one in eight stroke patients required readmission, mainly attributable to preventable causes. Age, ethnicity, stroke subtypes and duration of the index admission influenced the risk of readmission. Efforts should focus on minimizing potentially preventable admissions, especially among those at higher risk.
Who is teaching in Chinese primary schools? A profile of the primary education workforce in Chinese county areas
Authors: Huo Ming , Zhao Na , Zhao Yue , Van Den Noortgate Wim
Published: January 2021

A teaching workforce with good quality is a key factor in the process of China’s rapid development. Although 76% of Chinese pupils are studying at schools within county areas, a general portray of the corresponding teaching workforce is still not clear. This study presents data from a nationally representative survey of primary education teachers in 35 counties of 18 provinces in China. Findings presented include demographic and professional characteristics, living conditions as well as attitudes towards work. Besides, variations among school locations and geographical regions are also examined. The key findings are the followings: 1) Quality of primary school teachers in county areas has been improved regarding education background; 2) Teaching force in village primary schools has an unbalanced age and gender composition; 3) Out-of-field teaching practice is widespread, especially for minor subjects. 4) Primary school teachers perceived relative low salary and low social status.
Prognostic significance of BIRC7/Livin, Bcl-2, p53, Annexin V, PD-L1, DARC, MSH2 and PMS2 in colorectal cancer treated with FOLFOX chemotherapy with or without aspirin
Authors: Faruk Mohammed , Ibrahim Sani , Aminu Surajo Mohammed , Adamu Ahmed , Abdullahi Adamu , Suleiman Aishatu Maude , Rafindadi Abdulmumini Hassan , Mohammed Abdullahi , Iliyasu Yawale , Idoko John , Saidu Rakiya , Randawa Abdullahi Jibril , Musa Halimatu Sadiya , Ntekim Atara , Shah Khalid Zahir , Abubakar Sani , Adoke Kasimu Umar , Manko Muhammad , Awasum Cheh Agustin
Published: January 2021

Evasion of apoptosis is associated with treatment resistance and metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC). Various cellular processes are associated with evasion of apoptosis. These include overexpression of pro-apoptotic proteins (including p53 and PD-L1), anti-apoptotic proteins (BIRC7/Livin and Bcl-2), chemokine receptors (including DARC), and dysregulation of DNA mismatch repair proteins (including MSH2 and PMS2). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of folinic acid, 5-FU and oxaliplatin (FOLFOX) as a single agent and aspirin plus FOLFOX in various combinations on the aforementioned proteins in human CRC, SW480 cell line and rat models of N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea (NMU)-induced CRC. In addition, effects of the NMU-induced CRC and chemotherapeutic regimens on haematological and biochemical parameters in the rat models were studied. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and immunoblot techniques were used to study the expression pattern of the related proteins in the human CRC cells pre- and post-treatment. Double contrast barium enema, post-mortem examination and histological analyses were used to confirm tumour growth and the effect of the treatmentin vivoin rat models. Notably, we found in human mucinous CRC, a significant increase in expression of the BIRC7/Livin post-FOLFOX treatment compared with pre-treatment (p= 0.0001). This increase provides new insights into the prognostic role of BIRC7/Livin in evasion of apoptosis and facilitation of treatment resistance, local recurrence and metastasis particularly among mucinous CRCs post-FOLFOX chemotherapy. These poor prognostic features in the CRC may be further compounded by the significant suppression of DARC, PD-L1, PMS2 and overexpression of MSH2 and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and p53 proteins observed in our study (p < 0.05). Importantly, we found a significant reduction in expression of BIRC7/Livin and reactivation of DARC and PD-L1 with a surge in Annexin V expression in rat models of CRC cells post-treatment with a sequential dose of aspirin plus FOLFOX compared with other treatmentsin vivo(p<0.05). The mechanistic rational of these effects underscores the importance of expanded concept of possible aspirin combination therapy with FOLFOX sequentially in future CRC management. Validation of our findings through randomized clinical trials of aspirin plus FOLFOX sequentially in patients with CRC is therefore warranted.
Glutamine and cystine-enriched diets modulate aquaporins gene expression in the small intestine of piglets
Authors: Vieira da Silva Inês , P. Soares Bárbara , Pimpão Catarina , M. A. Pinto Rui , Costa Teresa , Freire João P. B. , Corrent Etienne , Chalvon-Demersay Tristan , Prates José A. M. , Lopes Paula A. , Soveral Graça
Published: January 2021

The regulation of glycerol permeability in the gastrointestinal tract is crucial to control fat deposition, lipolysis and gluconeogenesis. Knowing that the amino acid glutamine is a physiological regulator of gluconeogenesis, whereas cystine promotes adiposity, herein we investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with glutamine and cystine on the serum biochemical parameters of piglets fed on amino acid-enriched diets, as well as on the transcriptional profile of membrane water and glycerol channels aquaporins (AQPs) in the ileum portion of the small intestine and its impact on intestinal permeability. Twenty male piglets with an initial body weight of 8.8 ± 0.89 kg were allocated to four dietary treatments (n = 5) and received, during a four week-period, a basal diet without supplementation (control) or supplemented with 8 kg/ton of glutamine (Gln), cystine (Cys) or the combination of the two amino acids in equal proportions (Gln + Cys). Most biochemical parameters were found improved in piglets fed Gln and Cys diet. mRNA levels of AQP3 were found predominant over the others. Both amino acids, individually or combined, were responsible for a consistent downregulation of AQP1, AQP7 and AQP10, without impacting on water permeability. Conversely, Cys enriched diet upregulated AQP3 enhancing basolateral membranes glycerol permeability and downregulating glycerol kinase (GK) of intestinal cells. Altogether, our data reveal that amino acids dietary supplementation can modulate intestinal AQPs expression and unveil AQP3 as a promising target for adipogenesis regulation.