bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct measurement system of water-leaving albedo in the field by the skylight-blocked approach: Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Shang Zhehai , Yu Xiaolong , Lee Zhongping
Published: June 2022

Water-leaving albedo (αw(λ)) is an important component of the ocean surface albedo. Direct measurement of αw(λ) in the field is not yet available due to difficulties in removing the contribution of surface-reflected solar radiation. Following the concept of the skylight-blocked approach (SBA), a novel system, termed αwSBA, is proposed in this study to directly measure Ew(λ), where a wide-angle black cone is used to block the surface-reflected radiance. The shading errors associated with the cone and the measuring system are examined via Monte-Carlo (MC) simulations for a wide range of water inherent optical properties (IOPs), solar zenith angle, and different configurations of the αwSBA system (i.e., half cone angle, and the length of supporting arm). Based on sensitive analysis using MC simulations, an optimal configuration of αwSBA is recommended. We further propose a mathematical expression to parameterize the shading error (ɛ), along with an error correction scheme (αwOPT). It is found that, with the optimal configuration and αwOPT, the uncertainties of obtained αw(λ) by αwSBA are generally less than 7% for a wide range of waters with different IOPs and particulate scattering phase functions.
All-carbon stretchable and cavity-free white lasers: publisher’s note
Authors: Lu Guan-Zhang , Li Ya-Jhu , Hou Chen-Fu , Ghosh Rapti , Shen Ji-Lin , Wu Meng-Jer , Lin Tai-Yuan , Chen Yang-Fang
Published: June 2022

This publisher’s note contains corrections to [Opt. Express 30, 20213 (2022)10.1364/OE.457921].
Reconfigurable all-optical signal processing node architecture with data-symbol and encryption-key superposition function
Authors: Kodama Takahiro
Published: June 2022

This paper proposes a reconfigurable all-optical signal processing node architecture with selective all-optical signal processing in one simple configuration without optical-electrical-optical (O/E/O) conversion at the heterogeneous network connection node or repeater node. Proof-of concept experiments of encryption-key data superposition for binary phase shift keying and quadrature phase shift keying show the nonlinear optical effect generation within 1.5-dB and 3.5-dB characteristic degradation. Self-phase modulation and stimulated Brillouin scattering caused by increasing the highly nonlinear fiber input of pump light is the primary cause of signal degradation in the experiment.
Total transmittance measurement using an integrating sphere calibrated by a screen image synthesis system
Authors: Yu Yeh-Wei , Huang Pin-Duan , Chen Cheng-Hsien , Kuo Che-Heng , Wu Wen-Hsuan , Huang Yu-Hong , Wu Chi-Shou , Yang Tsung-Hsun , Sun Ching-Cherng
Published: June 2022

The measurement of bidirectional scattering distribution function (BSDF) and total transmittance (TT) is a complicated issue. We have proposed a screen image synthesis (SIS) BSDF meter that provides high-speed and precise measurement. However, the measurement of TT using integrating sphere cannot offer a precise measurement. Therefore, we propose a calibration method that uses SIS BSDF meter and responsivity of the integrating sphere. It brings us not only precise BSDF function but precise TT measurement.
Ten simple rules for succeeding as an underrepresented STEM undergraduate
Authors: Massey Melanie Duc Bo , Arif Suchinta , Embuldeniya Shanukie , Nanglu Karma , Bielawski Joseph
Published: June 2022

Undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds (e.g., Black, Indigenous, and people of color [BIPOC], members of the Deaf community, people with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, from low-income backgrounds, or underrepresented genders) continue to face exclusion and marginalization in higher education. In this piece, authored and edited by a diverse group of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) scholars, we present 10 simple rules for succeeding as an underrepresented STEM undergraduate student, illuminating the “hidden curriculum” of STEM specifically as it relates to the underrepresented undergraduate experience. Our rules begin by encouraging students to embrace their own distinct identities and scientific voices and explain how students can overcome challenges unique to underrepresented students throughout their undergraduate degrees. These rules are derived from a combination of our own experiences navigating our undergraduate STEM degrees and the growing body of literature on improving success for underrepresented students.
Analysis of emergent patterns in crossing flows of pedestrians reveals an invariant of ‘stripe’ formation in human data
Authors: Mullick Pratik , Fontaine Sylvain , Appert-Rolland Cécile , Olivier Anne-Hélène , Warren William H. , Pettré Julien
Published: June 2022

When two streams of pedestrians cross at an angle, striped patterns spontaneously emerge as a result of local pedestrian interactions. This clear case of self-organized pattern formation remains to be elucidated. In counterflows, with a crossing angle of 180°, alternating lanes of traffic are commonly observed moving in opposite directions, whereas in crossing flows at an angle of 90°, diagonal stripes have been reported. Naka (1977) hypothesized that stripe orientation is perpendicular to the bisector of the crossing angle. However, studies of crossing flows at acute and obtuse angles remain underdeveloped. We tested the bisector hypothesis in experiments on small groups (18-19 participants each) crossing at seven angles (30° intervals), and analyzed the geometric properties of stripes. We present two novel computational methods for analyzing striped patterns in pedestrian data: (i) an edge-cutting algorithm, which detects the dynamic formation of stripes and allows us to measure local properties of individual stripes; and (ii) a pattern-matching technique, based on the Gabor function, which allows us to estimate global properties (orientation and wavelength) of the striped pattern at a time T. We find an invariant property: stripes in the two groups are parallel and perpendicular to the bisector at all crossing angles. In contrast, other properties depend on the crossing angle: stripe spacing (wavelength), stripe size (number of pedestrians per stripe), and crossing time all decrease as the crossing angle increases from 30° to 180°, whereas the number of stripes increases with crossing angle. We also observe that the width of individual stripes is dynamically squeezed as the two groups cross each other. The findings thus support the bisector hypothesis at a wide range of crossing angles, although the theoretical reasons for this invariant remain unclear. The present results provide empirical constraints on theoretical studies and computational models of crossing flows.
Older persons experiences of healthcare in rural Burkina Faso: Results of a cross sectional household survey
Authors: Goldberg Ellen M. , Bountogo Mamadou , Harling Guy , Baernighausen Till , Davies Justine I. , Hirschhorn Lisa R.
Published: June 2022

Ensuring responsive healthcare which meets patient expectations and generates trust is important to increase rates of access and retention. This need is important for aging populations where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a growing cause of morbidity and mortality. We performed a cross-sectional household survey including socio-demographic; morbidities; and patient-reported health system utilization, responsiveness, and quality outcomes in individuals 40 and older in northwestern Burkina Faso. We describe results and use exploratory factor analysis to derive a contextually appropriate grouping of health system responsiveness (HSR) variables. We used linear or logistic regression to explore associations between socio-demographics, morbidities, and the grouped-variable, then between these variables and health system quality outcomes. Of 2,639 eligible respondents, 26.8% had least one NCD, 56.3% were frail or pre-frail and 23.9% had a recent healthcare visit, including only 1/3 of those with an NCD. Highest ratings of care experience (excellent/very good) included ease of following instructions (86.1%) and trust in provider skills (81.1%). The HSR grouping with the greatest factor loading included involvement in decision-making, clarity in communication, trust in the provider, and confidence in providers’ skills, labelled Shared Understanding and Decision Making (SUDM). In multivariable analysis, higher quality of life (OR 1.02,95%CI 1.01–1.04), frailty (OR 1.47,95%CI 1.00–2.16), and SUDM (OR 1.06,95%CI 1.05–1.09) were associated with greater health system trust and confidence. SUDM was associated with overall positive assessment of the healthcare system (OR 1.02,95%CI 1.01–1.03) and met healthcare needs (OR 1.09,95%CI 1.08–1.11). Younger age and highest wealth quintile were also associated with higher met needs. Recent healthcare access was low for people with existing NCDs, and SUDM was the most consistent factor associated with higher health system quality outcomes. Results highlight the need to increase continuity of care for aging populations with NCDs and explore strengthening SUDM to achieve this goal.
Navigating fear, shyness, and discomfort during menstruation in Cambodia
Authors: Daniels Gabrielle , MacLeod Marin , Cantwell Raymond E. , Keene Danya , Humprhies Debbie
Published: June 2022

While increased attention has been given to girls’ menstrual hygiene management (MHM) experiences in schools as they relate to managerial challenges, research exploring girls’ psychosocial experiences during menstruation and their needs in non-school environments remains limited. This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding menstruation and MHM (M&MHM) among rural Cambodian girls (at least 14 years old, post-menarche; n = 130), mothers (n = 93), fathers (n = 15), teachers (n = 37; 54.1% female), and boys (at least 14 years old; n = 59) in both the home and school environments. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through structured interviews, focus groups, and latrine surveys in eight secondary schools and villages from two rural provinces, Banteay Meanchey and Kratie. Findings indicated that although 95% of girls felt capable of managing their menses each month, many girls experienced fear, shyness, and discomfort (FSD) during menstruation. Identified M&MHM challenges and FSD in both the home and school environments influenced all participant groups’ decision-making, social interactions, and varied based on their knowledge of M&MHM and emphasized the need for comprehensive interventions that reduce the impact of MHM challenges on psychosocial experiences and FSD to promote girls’ well-being during menstruation, particularly in income limited settings.
Faster indicators of chikungunya incidence using Google searches
Authors: Miller Sam , Preis Tobias , Mizzi Giovanni , Bastos Leonardo Soares , Gomes Marcelo Ferreira da Costa , Coelho Flávio Codeço , Codeço Claudia Torres , Moat Helen Susannah
Published: June 2022

Chikungunya, a mosquito-borne disease, is a growing threat in Brazil, where over 640,000 cases have been reported since 2017. However, there are often long delays between diagnoses of chikungunya cases and their entry in the national monitoring system, leaving policymakers without the up-to-date case count statistics they need. In contrast, weekly data on Google searches for chikungunya is available with no delay. Here, we analyse whether Google search data can help improve rapid estimates of chikungunya case counts in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. We build on a Bayesian approach suitable for data that is subject to long and varied delays, and find that including Google search data reduces both model error and uncertainty. These improvements are largest during epidemics, which are particularly important periods for policymakers. Including Google search data in chikungunya surveillance systems may therefore help policymakers respond to future epidemics more quickly.
Systematic literature review and meta-analysis on use of Thrombopoietic agents for chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Soff Gerald A. , Ray-Coquard Isabelle , Rivera Luis J. Marfil , Fryzek Jon , Mullins Megan , Bylsma Lauren C. , Park Joseph K.
Published: June 2022

Background

Currently, there are no approved options to prevent or treat chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia (CIT). We performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis on use of thrombopoietic agents for CIT.

Patients and methods

We searched Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PubMed, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and health technology assessments from January 1995 to March 2021 for studies evaluating thrombopoietic agents for CIT, including recombinant human thrombopoietin (rhTPO), megakaryocyte growth and development factor (MGDF), romiplostim, and eltrombopag. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted for efficacy and safety endpoints.

Results

We screened 1503 titles/abstracts, assessed 138 articles, and abstracted data from 39 publications (14 recombinant human thrombopoietin, 7 megakaryocyte growth and development factor, 9 romiplostim, 8 eltrombopag, and 1 romiplostim/eltrombopag). Random effects meta-analyses of data from multiple studies comparing thrombopoietic agents versus control (comparator, placebo, or no treatment) showed that thrombopoietic agents did not significantly improve chemotherapy dose delays and/or reductions (21.1% vs 40.4%,P= 0.364), grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia (39.3% vs 34.8%;P= 0.789), platelet transfusions (16.7% vs 31.7%,P= 0.111), grade ≥ 2 bleeding (6.7% vs 16.5%;P= 0.250), or thrombosis (7.6% vs 12.5%;P= 0.131). However, among individual studies comparing thrombopoietic agents with placebo or no treatment, thrombopoietic agents positively improved outcomes in some studies, including significantly increasing mean peak platelet counts (186 x 109/L with rhTPO vs 122 x 109/L with no treatment;P< 0.05) in one study and significantly increasing platelet count at nadir (56 x 109/L with rhTPO vs 28 x 109/L with not treatment;P< 0.05) in another study. Safety findings included thrombosis (n= 23 studies) and bleeding (n= 11), with no evidence of increased thrombosis risk with thrombopoietic agents.

Conclusion

Our analyses generate the hypothesis that thrombopoietic agents may benefit patients with CIT. Further studies with well-characterized bleeding and platelet thresholds are warranted to explore the possible benefits of thrombopoietic agents for CIT.
Differential antibody production by symptomatology in SARS-CoV-2 convalescent individuals
Authors: Saraf Sharada , Zhu Xianming , Shrestha Ruchee , Bonny Tania S. , Baker Owen R. , Beck Evan J. , Fernandez Reinaldo E. , Eby Yolanda , Akinde Olivia , Ruff Jessica E. , Caturegli Patrizio , Redd Andrew D. , Bloch Evan M. , Quinn Thomas C. , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Laeyendecker Oliver
Published: June 2022

The association between COVID-19 symptoms and antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 is poorly characterized. We analyzed antibody levels in individuals with known SARS-CoV-2 infection to identify potential antibody-symptom associations. Convalescent plasma from 216 SARS-CoV-2 RNA+ individuals with symptomatology information were tested for the presence of IgG to the spike S1 subunit (Euroimmun ELISA), IgG to receptor binding domain (RBD, CoronaCHEK rapid test), and for IgG, IgA, and IgM to nucleocapsid (N, Bio-Rad ELISA). Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of having a COVID-19 symptom from the antibody response, adjusting for sex and age. Cough strongly associated with antibodies against S1 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 5.33; 95% CI from 1.51 to 18.86) and RBD (aOR = 4.36; CI 1.49, 12.78). In contrast, sore throat significantly associated with the absence of antibodies to S1 and N (aOR = 0.25; CI 0.08, 0.80 and aOR = 0.31; 0.11, 0.91). Similarly, lack of symptoms associated with the absence of antibodies to N and RBD (aOR = 0.16; CI 0.03, 0.97 and aOR = 0.16; CI 0.03, 1.01). Cough appeared to be correlated with a seropositive result, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals exhibiting lower respiratory symptoms generate a robust antibody response. Conversely, those without symptoms or limited to a sore throat while infected with SARS-CoV-2 were likely to lack a detectable antibody response. These findings strongly support the notion that severity of infection correlates with robust antibody response.
Toxoplasma gondii infection and insomnia: A case control seroprevalence study
Authors: Alvarado-Esquivel Cosme , Estrada-Martínez Sergio , Pérez-Álamos Alma Rosa , Ramos-Nevárez Agar , Botello-Calderón Karina , Alvarado-Félix Ángel Osvaldo , Vaquera-Enríquez Raquel , Alvarado-Félix Gustavo Alexis , Sifuentes-Álvarez Antonio , Guido-Arreola Carlos Alberto , Rábago-Sánchez Elizabeth , Saenz-Soto Leandro
Published: June 2022

We determined the association between Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection and insomnia. Through an age-and gender-matched case-control study, 577 people with insomnia (cases) and 577 people without insomnia (controls) were tested for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies using commercially available enzyme-immunoassays. Anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies were found in 71 (12.3%) of 577 individuals with insomnia and in 46 (8.0%) of 577 controls (OR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.09–2.39; P = 0.01). Men with insomnia had a higher (16/73: 21.9%) seroprevalence of T. gondii infection than men without insomnia (5/73: 6.8%) (OR: 3.81; 95% CI: 1.31–11.06; P = 0.009). The rate of high (>150 IU/ml) anti-T. gondii IgG antibody levels in cases was higher than the one in controls (OR = 2.21; 95% CI: 1.13–4.31; P = 0.01). Men with insomnia had a higher (8/73: 11.0%) rate of high anti-T. gondii IgG antibody levels than men without insomnia (0/73: 0.0%) (P = 0.006). The rate of high anti-T. gondii IgG antibody levels in cases >50 years old (11/180: 6.1%) was higher than that (3/180: 1.7%) in controls of the same age group (OR: 3.84; 95% CI: 1.05–14.00; P = 0.05). No difference in the rate of IgM seropositivity between cases and controls was found (OR = 1.33; 95% CI: 0.57–3.11; P = 0.50). Results of this seroepidemiology study suggest that infection with T. gondii is associated with insomnia. Men older than 50 years with T. gondii exposure might be prone to insomnia. Further research to confirm the association between seropositivity and serointensity to T. gondii and insomnia is needed.
Spatiotemporal analysis of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Palestine and foresight study by projections modelling until 2060 based on climate change prediction
Authors: Amro Ahmad , Moskalenko Olga , Hamarsheh Omar , Frohme Marcus
Published: June 2022

Background

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a vector-borne parasitic diseases of public health importance that is prevalent in the West Bank but not in the Gaza Strip. The disease caused by parasitic protozoans from the genus Leishmania and it is transmitted by infected phlebotomine sand flies. The aim of our study is to investigate the eco-epidemiological parameters and spatiotemporal projections of CL in Palestine over a 30-years period from 1990 through 2020 and to explore future projections until 2060.

Methodology/Principal findings

This long-term descriptive epidemiological study includes investigation of demographic characteristics of reported patients by the Palestinian Ministry of Health (PMoH). Moreover, we explored spatiotemporal distribution of CL including future projection based on climate change scenarios. The number of CL patients reported during this period was 5855 cases, and the average annual incidence rate (AAIR) was 18.5 cases/105 population. The male to female ratio was 1.25:1. Patients-age ranged from 2 months to 89 years (mean = 22.5, std 18.67, and the median was 18 years). More than 65% of the cases came from three governates in the West Bank; Jenin 29% (1617 cases), Jericho 25% (1403), and Tubas 12% (658) with no cases reported in the Gaza Strip. Seasonal occurrence of CL starts to increase in December and peaked during March and April of the following year. Current distribution of CL indicate that Jericho, Tubas, Jenin and Nablus have the most suitable climatic settings for the sandfly vectors. Future projections until 2060 suggest an increasing incidence from northwest of Jenin down to the southwest of Ramallah, disappearance of the foci in Jericho and Tubas throughout the Jordan Vally, and possible emergence of new foci in Gaza Strip.

Conclusions/Significance

The future projection of CL in Palestine until 2060 show a tendency of increasing incidence in the north western parts of the West Bank, disappearance from Jericho and Tubas throughout the Jordan Vally, and emergence of new CL endemic foci in the Gaza Strip. These results should be considered to implement effective control and surveillance systems to counteract spatial expansion of CL vectors.
Empathy and teachers’ fairness behavior: The mediating role of moral obligation and moderating role of social value orientation
Authors: Hong Youjuan , Cai Jingxue , Lan Ruiming , Wang Kaixuan , Lian Rong , Chen Lijun
Published: June 2022

This study examined the mediating effect of moral obligation and moderating effect of social value orientation on the relationship between empathy and fairness behavior in Chinese teachers. Seven hundred and twenty-six Chinese teachers completed self-reported questionnaires regarding empathy, moral obligation, social value orientation, and fairness behavior. The results revealed that moral obligation mediated the link between empathy and teachers’ fairness behavior. Teachers’ social value orientation moderated the associations between empathy and moral obligation and moral obligation and fairness behavior. The associations between empathy and moral obligation and moral obligation and fairness behavior were more robust for those with high SVO scores (i.e., prosocial). This study identified the critical factors associated with teachers’ fairness behavior, supplying empirical support for existing theories and providing practical implications for interventions designed to improve Chinese teachers’ classroom environment.
The spatial and temporal differentiation characteristics of cultural heritage in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Li Wei , Jiao Jianping , Qi Jianwu , Ma Yujia
Published: June 2022

Understanding the temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of the cultural heritage of the Yellow River Basin can effectively improve the scientific understanding of the historical changes, environmental evolution, and cultural and economic development of the Yellow River Basin and thus provide a scientific and reasonable decision-making basis for the protection and development of its cultural heritage. The research object of this paper are the national cultural relic protection units. These are examined using the GIS spatial analysis method to explore the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics and spatial structure of 2,102 national material cultural heritage sites in the Yellow River basin. The results show that the spatial distribution of cultural heritage has a significant spatial agglomeration effect. The whole basin is concentrated in stable high- and low-value areas, and the difference between the high- and low-value areas is clear. Some aspects of the spatial structure heterogeneity are strong, showing a low value dispersion distribution trend. In different periods, the distribution direction and scope of cultural heritage have low ranges of rotation, a clear direction, and a high degree of centripetal distribution. The spatial and temporal distribution of cultural heritage is the result of the combined action of natural geographical environment such as climate change, topography, river hydrology, and human environment such as administrative institutional changes, ideological evolution, and social and economic development.
A systematic review of substance use and substance use disorder research in Kenya
Authors: Jaguga Florence , Kiburi Sarah Kanana , Temet Eunice , Barasa Julius , Karanja Serah , Kinyua Lizz , Kwobah Edith Kamaru
Published: June 2022

Objectives

The burden of substance use in Kenya is significant. The objective of this study was to systematically summarize existing literature on substance use in Kenya, identify research gaps, and provide directions for future research.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted in line with the PRISMA guidelines. We conducted a search of 5 bibliographic databases (PubMed, PsychINFO, Web of Science, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Professionals (CINAHL) and Cochrane Library) from inception until 20 August 2020. In addition, we searched all the volumes of the official journal of the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol & Drug Abuse (the African Journal of Alcohol and Drug Abuse). The results of eligible studies have been summarized descriptively and organized by three broad categories including: studies evaluating the epidemiology of substance use, studies evaluating interventions and programs, and qualitative studies exploring various themes on substance use other than interventions. The quality of the included studies was assessed with the Quality Assessment Tool for Studies with Diverse Designs.

Results

Of the 185 studies that were eligible for inclusion, 144 investigated the epidemiology of substance use, 23 qualitatively explored various substance use related themes, and 18 evaluated substance use interventions and programs. Key evidence gaps emerged. Few studies had explored the epidemiology of hallucinogen, prescription medication, ecstasy, injecting drug use, and emerging substance use. Vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, and persons with physical disability had been under-represented within the epidemiological and qualitative work. No intervention study had been conducted among children and adolescents. Most interventions had focused on alcohol to the exclusion of other prevalent substances such as tobacco and cannabis. Little had been done to evaluate digital and population-level interventions.

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review provide important directions for future substance use research in Kenya.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO: CRD42020203717.
Fecal microbiota in congenital chloride diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Wedenoja Satu , Saarikivi Aki , Mälkönen Jani , Leskinen Saara , Lehto Markku , Adeshara Krishna , Tuokkola Jetta , Nikkonen Anne , Merras-Salmio Laura , Höyhtyä Miikka , Hörkkö Sohvi , Haaramo Anu , Salonen Anne , de Vos Willem M. , Korpela Katri , Kolho Kaija-Leena
Published: June 2022

Background and aims

Subjects with congenital chloride diarrhea (CLD; a defect in solute carrier family 26 member 3 (SLC26A3)) are prone to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We investigated fecal microbiota in CLD and CLD-associated IBD. We also tested whether microbiota is modulated by supplementation with the short-chain fatty acid butyrate.

Subjects and methods

We recruited 30 patients with CLD for an observational 3-week follow-up study. Thereafter, 16 consented to oral butyrate substitution for a 3-week observational period. Fecal samples, collected once a week, were assayed for calprotectin and potential markers of inflammation, and studied by 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene amplicon sequencing and compared to that of 19 healthy controls and 43 controls with Crohn’s disease. Data on intestinal symptoms, diet and quality of life were collected.

Results

Patients with CLD had increased abundances of Proteobacteria, Veillonella, and Prevotella, and lower abundances of normally dominant taxa Ruminococcaceae and Lachnospiraceae when compared with healthy controls and Crohn´s disease. No major differences in fecal microbiota were found between CLD and CLD-associated IBD (including two with yet untreated IBD). Butyrate was poorly tolerated and showed no major effects on fecal microbiota or biomarkers in CLD.

Conclusions

Fecal microbiota in CLD is different from that of healthy subjects or Crohn´s disease. Unexpectedly, no changes in the microbiota or fecal markers characterized CLD-associated IBD, an entity with high frequency among patients with CLD.
Visual tracking assessment in a soccer-specific virtual environment: A web-based study
Authors: Vu Alexandre , Sorel Anthony , Faure Charles , Aurousseau Antoine , Bideau Benoit , Kulpa Richard
Published: June 2022

The ability to track teammates and opponents is an essential quality to achieve a high level of performance in soccer. The visual tracking ability is usually assessed in the laboratory with non-sport specific scenarios, leading in two major concerns. First, the methods used probably only partially reflects the actual ability to track players on the field. Second, it is unclear whether the situational features manipulated to stimulate visual tracking ability match those that make it difficult to track real players. In this study, participants had to track multiple players on a virtual soccer field. The virtual players moved according to either real or pseudo-random trajectories. The experiment was conducted online using a web application. Regarding the first concern, the visual tracking performance of players in soccer, other team sports, and non-team sports was compared to see if differences between groups varied with the use of soccer-specific or pseudo-random movements. Contrary to our assumption, the ANOVA did not reveal a greater tracking performance difference between soccer players and the two other groups when facing stimuli featuring movements from actual soccer games compared to stimuli featuring pseudo-random ones. Directing virtual players with real-world trajectories did not appear to be sufficient to allow soccer players to use soccer-specific knowledge in their visual tracking activity. Regarding the second concern, an original exploratory analysis based on Hierarchical Clustering on Principal Components was conducted to compare the situational features associated with hard-to-track virtual players in soccer-specific or pseudo-random movements. It revealed differences in the situational feature sets associated with hard-to-track players based on movement type. Essentially with soccer-specific movements, how the virtual players were distributed in space appeared to have a significant influence on visual tracking performance. These results highlight the need to consider real-world scenarios to understand what makes tracking multiple players difficult.
Detection of features predictive of microRNA targets by integration of network data
Authors: Cihan Mert , Andrade-Navarro Miguel A.
Published: June 2022

Gene activity is controlled by multiple molecular mechanisms, for instance through transcription factors or by microRNAs (miRNAs), among others. Established bioinformatics tools for the prediction of miRNA target genes face the challenge of ensuring accuracy, due to high false positive rates. Further, these tools present poor overlap. However, we demonstrated that it is possible to filter good predictions of miRNA targets from the bulk of all predictions by using information from the gene regulatory network. Here, we take advantage of this strategy that selects a large subset of predicted microRNA binding sites as more likely to possess less false-positives because of their over-representation in RE1 silencing transcription factor (REST)-regulated genes from the background of TargetScanHuman 7.2 predictions to identify useful features for the prediction of microRNA targets. These enriched miRNA families would have silencing activity for neural transcripts overlapping the repressive activity on neural genes of REST. We analyze properties of associated microRNA binding sites and contrast the outcome to the background. We found that the selected subset presents significant differences respect to the background: (i) lower GC-content in the vicinity of the predicted miRNA binding site, (ii) more target genes with multiple identical microRNA binding sites and (iii) a higher density of predicted microRNA binding sites close to the 3’ terminal end of the 3’-UTR. These results suggest that network selection of miRNA-mRNA pairs could provide useful features to improve microRNA target prediction.
Lipases secreted by a gut bacterium inhibit arbovirus transmission in mosquitoes
Authors: Yu Xi , Tong Liangqin , Zhang Liming , Yang Yun , Xiao Xiaoping , Zhu Yibin , Wang Penghua , Cheng Gong
Published: June 2022

Arboviruses are etiological agents of various severe human diseases that place a tremendous burden on global public health and the economy; compounding this issue is the fact that effective prophylactics and therapeutics are lacking for most arboviruses. Herein, we identified 2 bacterial lipases secreted by a Chromobacterium bacterium isolated from Aedes aegypti midgut, Chromobacterium antiviral effector-1 (CbAE-1) and CbAE-2, with broad-spectrum virucidal activity against mosquito-borne viruses, such as dengue virus (DENV), Zika virus (ZIKV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), yellow fever virus (YFV) and Sindbis virus (SINV). The CbAEs potently blocked viral infection in the extracellular milieu through their lipase activity. Mechanistic studies showed that this lipase activity directly disrupted the viral envelope structure, thus inactivating infectivity. A mutation in the lipase motif of CbAE-1 fully abrogated the virucidal ability. Furthermore, CbAEs also exert lipase-dependent entomopathogenic activity in mosquitoes. The anti-arboviral and entomopathogenic properties of CbAEs render them potential candidates for the development of novel transmission control strategies against vector-borne diseases.
A Powassan virus domain III nanoparticle immunogen elicits neutralizing and protective antibodies in mice
Authors: Malonis Ryan J. , Georgiev George I. , Haslwanter Denise , VanBlargan Laura A. , Fallon Georgia , Vergnolle Olivia , Cahill Sean M. , Harris Richard , Cowburn David , Chandran Kartik , Diamond Michael S. , Lai Jonathan R.
Published: June 2022

Powassan virus (POWV) is an emerging tick borne flavivirus (TBFV) that causes severe neuroinvasive disease. Currently, there are no approved treatments or vaccines to combat POWV infection. Here, we generated and characterized a nanoparticle immunogen displaying domain III (EDIII) of the POWV E glycoprotein. Immunization with POWV EDIII presented on nanoparticles resulted in significantly higher serum neutralizing titers against POWV than immunization with monomeric POWV EDIII. Furthermore, passive transfer of EDIII-reactive sera protected against POWV challengein vivo. We isolated and characterized a panel of EDIII-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and identified several that potently inhibit POWV infection and engage distinct epitopes within the lateral ridge and C-C′ loop of the EDIII. By creating a subunit-based nanoparticle immunogen with vaccine potential that elicits antibodies with protective activity against POWV infection, our findings enhance our understanding of the molecular determinants of antibody-mediated neutralization of TBFVs.
Diáspora y auto representación en la literatura afroespañola: Hija del camino, de Lucía Asué Mbomío
Authors: Cucarella Ramon Vicent
Published: June 2022

La novela Hija del camino de la escritora afroespañola Lucía Asué Mbomío trata la historia de Sandra Nnom y sus vicisitudes en búsqueda de la conciliación de su identidad afroespañola a través de una serie de migraciones que la impelen a un autodescubrimiento y auto representación. De este modo, el relato aboga por la migración como elemento intrínseco al establecimiento de la conciencia afrodiaspórica y constituye la auto representación del sujeto diaspórico como metáfora y ejemplo del rechazo al esencialismo identitario y como mecanismo de legitimación de una identidad afroespañola que abraza la hibridez intrínseca de la diáspora africana. Siguiendo las rutas de lo que se ha dado en llamar el Atlántico hispano, Mbomío establece una narrativa en la que Sandra Nnom (re)define su sentido híbrido de la identidad redirigiendo las rutas del Atlántico hispano para incluir a España en el legado postesclavista y colonialista al tiempo que feminiza el eje Atlántico creando una estética femenina del legado afrodiaspórico. Al final, la novela deviene en un relato curativo que aboga por reclamar una identidad afrodiaspórica que, a través del hibridismo, aporta una lectura a favor de la diferencia y la inclusión en la literatura española.
A CAPACIDADE TECNOLÓGICA E A PERCEPÇÃO DA INCERTEZA AMBIENTAL (UNI-MULTIDIMENSIONAL) DE UNIVERSITÁRIOS DA ÁREA DE GESTÃO
Authors: Silveira-Martins Elvis , Castro Junior Deosir Flavio Lobo de , Miura Márcio Nakayama , Abreu Jean Carlos de
Published: June 2022

Capacidade Tecnológica (CT) tem sido explorada por tomadores de decisões de diferentes organizações como potencializadora de estratégias, em função das Incertezas Ambientais (IA). O presente estudo objetiva correlacionar a CT com a percepção de IA, unidimensional e multidimensional, para verificar a estratégia e a sua congruência com a percepção do ambiente. Foi realizada uma pesquisa quantitativa, via survey. A amostra foi caracterizada por 123 acadêmicos dos cursos de gestão de uma universidade pública federal. A coleta dos dados foi realizada in loco, com o uso de questionário estruturado. Os dados foram analisados via teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov e correlação de Spearman’s, desenvolvidos no software PASW Statistics. Os resultados apontaram que a CT possui de maneira uni e multidimensional associação positiva e significativa com a percepção (IA), assim como demonstram harmonização com o que preconiza a teoria seminal. Neste mesmo sentido, foi possível verificar que as estratégias direcionadas ao uso de tecnologia da informação oportunizam agregar maior número de informações e, consequentemente, maior compreensão sobre fatores e eventos que podem ameaçar a organização (incertezas ambientais), geradas por cenários dinâmicos e complexos.
TECNOLOGIA DA INFORMAÇÃO COMO UM ALAVANCADOR DE DESEMPENHO EM PRESTADORES DE SERVIÇOS LOGÍSTICOS
Authors: Merlotto William Fernando , Moori Roberto Giro , Lopes Yan
Published: June 2022

A tecnologia da informação desempenha um importante papel nas atividades logísticas para obtenção de serviços de alta qualidade, baixo custo e fonte de diferenciação competitiva. Em decorrência disso, este estudo objetivou examinar o papel da tecnologia da informação aplicada à logística (TIL), em contexto de gestão estratégica da logística (GEL), como uma ferramenta facilitadora de desempenho operacional logístico (DOL). Para tanto, realizou-se uma pesquisa exploratória qualitativa junto a uma amostra de 13 de empresas prestadoras de serviços logísticos (PSL) localizadas na região de Foz do Iguaçu, PR. Foram realizadas entrevistas em profundidade junto a gestores logísticos, cujos dados coletados, as falas dos entrevistados, foram tratados pela análise de conteúdo. Os resultados revelaram que a tecnologia de informação aplicada à logística foi uma importante ferramenta tecnológica, que em interação com a gestão estratégica da logística, propulsionaram às prestadoras de serviços logísticos gerenciar o ciclo de pedido, remover atividades que não agregam valor, agilizar entregas e, por conseguinte, atender às metas de desempenhos logísticos.
OS SEIS FCS DA TERCEIRIZAÇÃO DA TECNOLOGIA DA INFORMAÇÃO EM ÓRGÃO PÚBLICO MUNICIPAL
Authors: Ayabe Fernando , Prado Edmir Parada Vasques
Published: June 2022

Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo identificar e analisar os fatores críticos de sucesso (FCS) da terceirização da tecnologia da informação (TTI) em um órgão público municipal brasileiro. Os fatores de sucesso da TTI foram identificados por meio de uma revisão sistemática da literatura, a qual extraiu 314 artigos das bases de dados ACM e IEEE, dos quais 30 artigos atenderam ao protocolo da pesquisa. Utilizou-se a técnica Delphi como método de pesquisa para determinar FCS a partir dos fatores de sucesso identificados na literatura. O painel Delphi contou com 35 especialistas, e os dados foram coletados em 2018. Os resultados apontaram a existência de seis FCS na TTI: Comunicação, Capacidade, Comprometimento, Conformidade, Contexto e Confiança. Além disso, a pesquisa identificou que os processos de implantação e o comportamento entre cliente e fornecedor desempenham um papel mais crítico para o sucesso da TTI do que os processos de contratação. A pesquisa sugere que as cláusulas contratuais não são suficientes para garantir o sucesso de iniciativas de TTI. Além disso, as teorias com perspectiva social oferecem maior contribuição do que teorias econômicas para analisar a TTI em órgãos públicos.
Film as a gateway to teaching about slavery through historical empathy: a case study using 12 Years a Slave (McQueen, 2013)
Authors: Wagner David-Alexandre , Dversnes Torjus
Published: June 2022

We have studied how eliciting historical empathy in a class of 13th grade students through using the film 12 Years a Slave (McQueen, 2013) supported their in-depth understanding of slavery in nineteenth-century USA. Historical empathy is one of the core elements of the new curricular reform implemented from 2020 in Norway, and it is believed to have potential to strengthen: (1) students’ future citizenship and participation in democratic and multicultural societies; and (2) students’ in-depth understanding of history. We implemented a five-week lesson plan with different activities based around the film, and used students’ assignments to evaluate their feelings about the lessons and their historical understanding of slavery. The results confirmed the potential of film to enhance historical empathy when the screening is well prepared and combined with relevant activities. Students demonstrated a high level of engagement and managed to perform complex tasks. Both their ability to contextualise and to ‘care’ improved. Particularly, students’ historical understanding of slavery was boosted by the group conversations and the dialogic nature of the activities in the classroom. In addition, we observed a greater positive influence on boys’ achievements compared with girls’ – a finding which is interesting in a wider educational context and which needs further exploration.
A influência do fogo nas propriedades de um solo sob manejo de agricultura de corte e queima em ambiente serrano no bioma de Mata Atlântica
Authors: Bertolino Ana Valéria Freire Allemão , Mattos Bruno Souza , Bertolino Luiz Carlos
Published: June 2022

Objetiva-se, aqui, avaliar o efeito do manejo do fogo nas transformações das propriedades físicas (granulometria e porosidade), químicas (matéria orgânica e pH) e mineralógica do solo. O estudo foi desenvolvido no distrito de São Pedro da Serra – Nova Friburgo/RJ, área de predomínio da agricultura de corte e queima, com presença de relevo formado por vertentes íngremes e vales encaixados. A região apresenta um clima Tropical de Altitude, caracterizado por verões quentes e chuvosos e invernos amenos e secos. A precipitação média anual é de 1.279 mm, sendo os meses mais chuvosos de novembro a março, e os meses mais secos de maio a agosto, marcando o período sazonal de chuvas (verão) e secas (inverno). Foram coletadas amostras deformadas e indeformadas de solo nas profundidades de 0-5cm, 5-10cm e 10-15cm, em uma área de incêndio (INC – fogo de alta intensidade) e outra com a presença de uma agricultura tradicional de corte e queima (CO – fogo de baixa intensidade). Conclui-se que as propriedades físicas, químicas e mineralógicas do solo têm respostas distintas à perturbação gerada pelo fogo. Os resultados indicam que a área onde ocorreu incêndio (INC), apresenta hidrofobicidade acompanhada de maiores valores de microporosidade. Já no sistema tradicional de corte e queima (CO) há maior percentual de macroporos. Os resultados sugerem que a agricultura tradicional de corte e queima foi o sistema que menos alterou as propriedades do solo.
Responding to COVID-19: LUNEX University’s decisions and actions to continue physiotherapy education
Authors:   LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg, Buchholtz Kim , Meroni Roberto ,   LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg, Karsten Bettina ,   LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg, Carson Fraser ,   LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg
Published: June 2022

In this report we reflect on the decision-making process and actions taken by a young higher education institution to the COVID-19 pandemic to continue teaching both undergraduate and postgraduate physiotherapy degree programmes. LUNEX University is unique in that it is the only higher education institute in Luxembourg to provide education in physiotherapy. The response to the global pandemic is further complicated as the majority of students commute across international borders to attend campus. We have focused on three distinct challenges LUNEX staff faced to ensure continued and quality teaching was provided: 1) Response to the country-wide and global shutdown; 2) Return to campus; and 3) Provision of clinical placements. We describe the decisions and actions to rapidly move to a blended learning format, and the strategic approach to incorporating simulated practice after restrictions were eased and a return to campus was possible. Initial observation suggests improvement in student competency in practical skills as a result of the blended learning approach. Recommendations are provided to encourage the integration of blended learning for practical and clinical degree programmes, like physiotherapy, where an emphasis is placed on simulated practice in classroom settings, underpinned by prior theoretical knowledge delivered online.
Physiotherapy students promoting health and well-being of school-aged children and adolescents in North Karelia, Finland
Authors:   Karelia University of Applied Sciences, Joensuu, Finland, Issakainen Maiju , Mustonen Hilppa ,   Karelia University of Applied Sciences, Joensuu, Finland, Kuisma Raija ,   Karelia University of Applied Sciences, Joensuu, Finland
Published: June 2022

Background: Physical activity is important for health and well-being for all ages. The recommendation for children and adolescents is at least 60 minutes moderate- to vigorous- intensity physical activity daily and two thirds of Finnish children achieve these recommendations. Schools have an important role in children’s physical activity and physiotherapists as experts in motor development, movement and mobility could contribute largely in this respect to children's health and wellbeing in school healthcare system. This article describes, how school physiotherapy was developed and organized in North Karelia in cooperation with Karelia University of Applied Sciences (Karelia), schools in the Joensuu region and the Siun sote- Joint municipal authority for North Karelia social and health services. Aim: The aim of the pilot project was to promote the health, well-being, and functional capacity of children and adolescent. The purpose of the school physiotherapy pilot was to build a school physiotherapy model for schools in the North Karelia region. Discussion: School physiotherapy pilot was perceived necessary for improving pupils participation on health promoting physical activity. Because of the positive experiences of the pilot project, it is recommended that physiotherapy should be included in the school health services to promote the health and well-being of school aged children and adolescents.