bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-energy multidimensional solitary states in hollow-core fibers
Authors: Safaei Reza , Fan Guangyu , Kwon Ojoon , Légaré Katherine , Lassonde Philippe , Ibrahim Heide , Légaré François
Published: February 2021

Here, we report the first time observation of the formation of highly-stable multidimensional solitary states (MDSS) in gas-filled Hollow-core fibers. The MDSS have broadband red-shifted spectra with an uncommon negative quadratic spectral phase at output, originating from Raman enhancement due to the strong intermodal nonlinear interactions.
Pointing Characteristics of X-rays Generated by Relativistic Electron Acceleration via 45 TW fs Laser-He Plasma1
Authors: Andrianaki Georgia , Grigoriadis Anastasios , Benis Emmanouil P. , Papadogiannis Nektarios A.
Published: February 2021

We present measurements on the pointing characteristics of the x-ray sources driven by 45 TW, 25 fs laser pulses interacting with variable pressure He-jet. Betatron-type radiation along with 100 MeV directional quasi-monoenergetic electrons are observed.
Femtosecond soft–X–Ray absorption spectroscopy of liquids with a water-window high-harmonic source
Authors: Balčiūnas Tadas , Smith Adam D. , Chang Yi–Ping , Schmidt Cédric , Zinchenko Kristina , Nunes Fernanda B. , Svoboda Vít , Rossi Emanuele , Yin Zhong , Wolf Jean-Pierre , Wörner Hans Jakob
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate femtosecond time–resolved soft–X–ray absorption spectroscopy of liquid samples by combining a sub–micrometer–thin flat liquid jet with a high–harmonic table–top source covering the entire water-window range (284 - 538 eV). Our work represents the first extension of table-top XAS to the oxygen edge of a chemical sample in the liquid phase. In the time domain, our measurements resolve the gradual appearance of absorption features below the carbon K-edge of ethanol and methanol during strong–field ionization, which trace the valence-shell ionization dynamics of the liquid alcohols with a temporal resolution of ~30 fs.
Towards Real-Time Monitoring of Interfacial Chemical Dynamics with Time-Resolved X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Fraund Matthew , Borgwardt Mario , Mahl Johannes , Brausse Felix , Roth Friedrich , Blum Monika , Gessner Oliver
Published: February 2021

Picosecond time-resolved ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy of gold nanoparticle-sensitized titanium dioxide indicates similar charge injection yields but significantly different recombination dynamics after photoexcitation in dry and water-coated conditions.
Rescattering of low energy photoelectrons by extremely long wavelengths
Authors: Ranke Martin , Walther Sophie , Dimitriou Anastasios , Pfau Markus , Sumfleth Malte , Prandolini Mark J. , Gebert Thomas , Kazansky Andrey , Kabachnik Nikolay , Frühling Ulrike
Published: February 2021

Angle resolved spectra of photoelectrons generated by multiphoton ionization in the presence of THz-light fields were measured. We observed a strong electron modulation for different THz phases, which we attribute to momentum transfers caused by rescattering at the ionic core.
Raman effect in the spectral broadening of ultrashort laser pulses in hydrocarbon molecules
Authors: Safaei Reza , Kwon Ojoon , Fan Guangyu , Lassonde Philippe , Baltuška Andrius , Schmidt Bruno E. , Ibrahim Heide , Légaré François
Published: February 2021

A conventional hollow-core fiber (HCF) scheme is implemented to investigate the effect of group velocity dispersion (GVD) and Raman scattering in spectral broadening in molecular gases for low energy pulse compression application.
Ultrafast Dynamics of Photosensitizers based on Fe(II)
Authors: Päpcke Ayla , Steube Jakob , Vukadinovic Yannik , Bauer Matthias , Lochbrunner Stefan
Published: February 2021

The increase in lifetime of the potentially photocatalytic active 3MLCT state of Fe(II) complexes upon ligand design is characterized by ultrafast absorption spectroscopy to guide the development of Fe based photosensitizers.
Time delay in the coherent vibrational motion of H 2 + created by ionization of H2
Authors: Nishi Takanori , Lötstedt Erik , Yamanouchi Kaoru
Published: February 2021

We show using reduced density matrices that a phase of the photoelectron created in the photoionization of H2 induced by an attosecond pulse train introduces time delay in the coherent vibrational motion of

H
2
+

.
The Loss of Coherence Between Rotational States of N 2 +
Authors: Zhang Yuxuan , Wu Yulan , Chen Rao , Sun Shaohua , Liu Zuoye
Published: February 2021

The

N
2
+

lasing spectra with varying time delays are measured with two different polarizations of pump pulse. The inhibited time-dependent oscillation indicates that the polarization-modulated pump pulse can reduce the coherence between different rotational states.
NBOHCs’ photocycle revealed in synthetic silica by transient absorption measurements
Authors: De Michele V. , Sciortino A. , Messina F. , Cannas M. , Boukenter A. , Marin E. , Girard S. , Ouerdane Y.
Published: February 2021

We report a set of femtosecond transient absorption experiments with variable UV excitations, which allow clarifying the photocycle of the non-bridging-oxygen-hole-center, one of the key point defects controlling the optical response of amorphous silica.
Attosecond spectroscopy of size-resolved water clusters
Authors: Gong Xiaochun , Heck Saijoscha , Jelivona Denis , Wörner Hans Jakob
Published: February 2021

We report the realization of attosecond timing of local electron emission in water clusters. Ultrafast delocalized hole electron dynamics on attosecond temporal scale, which correlates to different cluster size, is observed in water clusters by a new developed attosecond coincidence metrology.
Coherent Control of a Single-Molecule Switch with Sub-Cycle Atomic Forces
Authors: Kastner Lukas Z. , Peller Dominik , Buchner Thomas , Roelcke Carmen , Albrecht Florian , Moll Nikolaj , Repp Jascha , Huber Rupert
Published: February 2021

We introduce sub-cycle atomic-scale forces provided by near fields of a lightwave-driven scanning probe tip. Exerting these ultrafast forces to key atoms of a single-molecule switch allows us to coherently steer a select structural rotation that modulates the switching statistics by up to 39%.
Controlling Free Electrons with Optical Whispering-Gallery Modes
Authors: Kfir Ofer , Lourenço-Martins Hugo , Storeck Gero , Sivis Murat , Harvey Tyler R. , Kippenberg Tobias J. , Feist Armin , Ropers Claus
Published: February 2021

We show that whispering-galley modes can drive strong coherent modulations in co-propagating free-electron beams, sufficient for generating 17-attosecond-long electron pulses. We use electron spectroscopy to resolve cavity modes and trace the cavity ringdown.
Controlled Attosecond Pulse Generation with Tailored Optical Waveforms
Authors: Yang Yudong , Rossi Giulio Maria , Mainz Roland E. , Scheiba Fabian , Silva-Toledo Miguel A. , Cirmi Giovanni , Kärtner Franz X.
Published: February 2021

We control the spectral and temporal characteristics of attosecond pulses by tailoring the HHG-driving optical waveform via parametric waveform synthesis. Attosecond streaking measurements are performed for full characterization of the XUV pulses and synthesized fields.
High-Harmonic Dipole Response Characterized by Ellipsometry
Authors: Chang Kuang-Yu , Huang Long-Cheng , Asaga Koji , Huang Pei-Chi , Tsai Ming-Shian , Rego Laura , Plaja Luis , Mashiko Hiroki , Oguri Katsuya , Hernandez-Garcia Carlos , Chen Ming-Chang
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate that polarization control and characterization of high-harmonic generation in non-collinear geometry performs as an excellent ellipsometry that can fully retrieve the amplitude and phase of ultrafast dipole response, advancing attosecond metrology.
Structuring Light’s Chirality: LR 6= RL
Authors: Ordonez Andres , Ayuso David , Decleva Piero , Ivanov Misha , Smirnova Olga
Published: February 2021

We introduce structured light with zero net chirality displaying a charge-polarized-like pattern of chirality. It allows perfect enantiomeric discrimination within the dipole approximation on ultrafast time scales, with opposite enantiomers emitting harmonics in opposite directions [arXiv:2004.05191].
Ultrafast Broadband Dichroism by Transient Optical Symmetry Breaking in Plasmonic Metasurfaces
Authors: Maiuri Margherita , Schirato Andrea , Toma Andrea , Zaccaria Remo Proietti , Laporta Paolo , Nordlander Peter , Cerullo Giulio , Alabastri Alessandro , Valle Giuseppe Della
Published: February 2021

We theoretically predict and experimentally demonstrate by polarization-resolved ultrafast transient absorption that the inhomogeneous space-time distribution of photogenerated hot carriers induces a sub-picosecond symmetry breaking in a plasmonic metasurface made of highly symmetric metaatoms.
Time perspective influence on management leadership styles and the mediating role of self-efficacy
Authors: Gassemi Karim , Papastamatelou Julie , Unger Alexander
Published: February 2021

We examined if time perspectives (TP) and the Deviation from a Balanced Time Perspective (DBTP—cf. Stolarski et al. Time Soc 20(3):346–363, 2011) have an effect on four types of Leadership Styles. Based on previous studies it was observed, that Self-Efficacy (SE) is determined by time perspectives (Epel et al. J Appl Soc Psychol 29(3):575–596, 1999). In particular, the transformational and transactional leadership styles could depend on higher self-efficacy of managers. We additionally tested if general self-efficacy (GSE) mediates the influence of time perspectives and the Deviation from a Balanced Time Perspective on Leadership Styles. We recruited a sample of former MBA-students, who now work in the middle management of German companies. We used the zimbardo time perspective inventory (ZTPI; Zimbardo and Boyd J Pers Soc Psychol 77(6):1271–1288, 1999), the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) by Felfe and Goihl (Deutsche überarbeitete und ergänzte Version des Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) [German revised and extended version of the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ)], Zentrum für Umfragen Methoden und Analysen, Mannheim, 2002) and the general self-efficacy-scale by Schwarzer and Jerusalem (Generalized Self-Efficacy scale, Nfer-Nelson, Windsor, 1995). Past Positive orientation has no significant effect on any of the four leadership styles. The present hedonistic dimension enhances and the past negative orientation reduces the transformational leadership style. The present fatalistic orientation reduces the Transformational and transactional leadership styles, but enhances the laissez-faire leadership style. Moreover, future enhances the transformational and transactional leadership styles. DBTP reduces the transformational and transactional leadership styles. The mediator role of GSE was confirmed for the transformational and transactional leadership style. Managers’ time perspectives are important for implementing an efficient leadership style.
Metagenomics workflow for hybrid assembly, differential coverage binning, metatranscriptomics and pathway analysis (MUFFIN)
Authors: Van Damme Renaud , Hölzer Martin , Viehweger Adrian , Müller Bettina , Bongcam-Rudloff Erik , Brandt Christian
Published: February 2021

Metagenomics has redefined many areas of microbiology. However, metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) are often fragmented, primarily when sequencing was performed with short reads. Recent long-read sequencing technologies promise to improve genome reconstruction. However, the integration of two different sequencing modalities makes downstream analyses complex. We, therefore, developed MUFFIN, a complete metagenomic workflow that uses short and long reads to produce high-quality bins and their annotations. The workflow is written by using Nextflow, a workflow orchestration software, to achieve high reproducibility and fast and straightforward use. This workflow also produces the taxonomic classification and KEGG pathways of the bins and can be further used for quantification and annotation by providing RNA-Seq data (optionally). We tested the workflow using twenty biogas reactor samples and assessed the capacity of MUFFIN to process and output relevant files needed to analyze the microbial community and their function. MUFFIN produces functional pathway predictions and, if provided de novo metatranscript annotations across the metagenomic sample and for each bin. MUFFIN is available on github under GNUv3 licence: https://github.com/RVanDamme/MUFFIN.
Revisiting the importance of model fitting for model-based fMRI: It does matter in computational psychiatry
Authors: Katahira Kentaro , Toyama Asako
Published: February 2021

Computational modeling has been applied for data analysis in psychology, neuroscience, and psychiatry. One of its important uses is to infer the latent variables underlying behavior by which researchers can evaluate corresponding neural, physiological, or behavioral measures. This feature is especially crucial for computational psychiatry, in which altered computational processes underlying mental disorders are of interest. For instance, several studies employing model-based fMRI—a method for identifying brain regions correlated with latent variables—have shown that patients with mental disorders (e.g., depression) exhibit diminished neural responses to reward prediction errors (RPEs), which are the differences between experienced and predicted rewards. Such model-based analysis has the drawback that the parameter estimates and inference of latent variables are not necessarily correct—rather, they usually contain some errors. A previous study theoretically and empirically showed that the error in model-fitting does not necessarily cause a serious error in model-based fMRI. However, the study did not deal with certain situations relevant to psychiatry, such as group comparisons between patients and healthy controls. We developed a theoretical framework to explore such situations. We demonstrate that the parameter-misspecification can critically affect the results of group comparison. We demonstrate that even if the RPE response in patients is completely intact, a spurious difference to healthy controls is observable. Such a situation occurs when the ground-truth learning rate differs between groups but a common learning rate is used, as per previous studies. Furthermore, even if the parameters are appropriately fitted to individual participants, spurious group differences in RPE responses are observable when the model lacks a component that differs between groups. These results highlight the importance of appropriate model-fitting and the need for caution when interpreting the results of model-based fMRI.
Epidemiology of dengue fever in Gabon: Results from a health facility-based fever surveillance in Lambaréné and its surroundings
Authors: Lim Jacqueline Kyungah , Fernandes José Francisco , Yoon In-Kyu , Lee Jung-Seok , Mba Regis Obiang , Lee Kang Sung , Namkung Suk , Yang Jae Seung , Bae So Hee , Lim Sl-Ki , Lell Bertrand , Esen Meral , Loembe Marguerite Massinga , Kremsner Peter G. , Alexander Neal , Agnandji Selidji Todagbe
Published: February 2021

Background

In Africa, information on dengue is limited to outbreak reports and focused on some countries with continuing transmission in West and East Africa. To estimate the proportion of dengue-positive cases among febrile patients and identify clinical indicators of dengue cases, we conducted passive facility-based fever surveillance in a catchment area population of 70,000 residents of Lambaréné and its surroundings in Gabon.

Methods

Non-malarial febrile patients with current fever or history of fever (≤7 days) between 1 and 55 years of age, were enrolled at Albert Schweitzer Hospital (ASH). Acute (visit 1, day of enrollment) and convalescent blood samples were collected between 10 and 21 days after enrollment. Acute/convalescent samples were tested with IgM/IgG ELISA, and a selected subset of acute samples with RT-PCR.

Results

Among 682 non-malarial febrile patients enrolled, 119 (17.4%) were identified as dengue-positive (94 dengue-confirmed and 25 dengue-probable cases). Of these dengue-positive cases, 14 were confirmed with PCR, and based on serotyping, two infections were identified to be DENV-2 and two were DENV-3. The majority of our enrolled patients were <25 years of age and close to 80% of our dengue-positive cases were <15 years of age. In adjusted analyses, retro-orbital pain and abdominal pain were 2.7 and 1.6 times more frequently found among dengue-positive cases, compared to non-dengue cases.

Conclusion

Lambaréné is not considered dengue-endemic. However, one in six non-malarial febrile episodes was found to be dengue-positive in the study period. Dengue should be considered more frequently in clinicians’ diagnosis among non-malarial febrile patients in Lambaréné. Given the lack of data on dengue in Gabon, additional prospective and longitudinal studies would help to further define the burden and patterns of dengue for improved case detection.
Dengue risk assessment using multicriteria decision analysis: A case study of Bhutan
Authors: Tsheten Tsheten , Clements Archie C. A. , Gray Darren J. , Wangdi Kinley
Published: February 2021

Background

Dengue is the most rapidly spreading vector-borne disease globally, with a 30-fold increase in global incidence over the last 50 years. In Bhutan, dengue incidence has been on the rise since 2004, with numerous outbreaks reported across the country. The aim of this study was to identify and map areas that are vulnerable to dengue in Bhutan.

Methodology/Principal findings

We conducted a multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) using a weighted linear combination (WLC) to obtain a vulnerability map of dengue. Risk factors (criteria) were identified and assigned with membership values for vulnerability according to the available literature. Sensitivity analysis and validation of the model was conducted to improve the robustness and predictive ability of the map. Our study revealed marked differences in geographical vulnerability to dengue by location and season. Low-lying areas and those located along the southern border were consistently found to be at higher risk of dengue. The vulnerability extended to higher elevation areas including some areas in the Capital city Thimphu during the summer season. The higher risk was mostly associated with relatively high population density, agricultural and built-up landscapes and relatively good road connectivity.

Conclusions

Using MCDA, our study identified vulnerable areas in Bhutan during specific seasons when and where the transmission of dengue is most likely to occur. This study provides evidence for the National Vector-borne Disease Control programme to optimize the use of limited public health resources for surveillance and vector control, to mitigate the public health threat of dengue.
Limited evidence of C4 plant consumption in mound building Macrotermes termites from savanna woodland chimpanzee sites
Authors: Phillips Seth , Scheffrahn Rudolf H. , Piel Alex , Stewart Fiona , Agbor Anthony , Brazzola Gregory , Tickle Alexander , Sommer Volker , Dieguez Paula , Wessling Erin G. , Arandjelovic Mimi , Kühl Hjalmar , Boesch Christophe , Oelze Vicky M.
Published: February 2021

Stable isotope analysis is an increasingly used molecular tool to reconstruct the diet and ecology of elusive primates such as unhabituated chimpanzees. The consumption of C4plant feeding termites by chimpanzees may partly explain the relatively high carbon isotope values reported for some chimpanzee communities. However, the modest availability of termite isotope data as well as the diversity and cryptic ecology of termites potentially consumed by chimpanzees obscures our ability to assess the plausibility of these termites as a C4resource. Here we report the carbon and nitrogen isotope values from 79Macrotermestermite samples from six savanna woodland chimpanzee research sites across equatorial Africa. Using mixing models, we estimated the proportion ofMacrotermesC4plant consumption across savanna woodland sites. Additionally, we tested for isotopic differences between termite colonies in different vegetation types and between the social castes within the same colony in a subset of 47 samples from 12 mounds. We found thatMacrotermescarbon isotope values were indistinguishable from those of C3plants. Only 5 to 15% ofMacrotermesdiets were comprised of C4plants across sites, suggesting that they cannot be considered a C4food resource substantially influencing the isotope signatures of consumers. In theMacrotermessubsample, vegetation type and caste were significantly correlated with termite carbon values, but not with nitrogen isotope values. LargeMacrotermessoldiers, preferentially consumed by chimpanzees, had comparably low carbon isotope values relative to other termite castes. We conclude thatMacrotermesconsumption is unlikely to result in high carbon isotope values in either extant chimpanzees or fossil hominins.
MG53 is not a critical regulator of insulin signaling pathway in skeletal muscle
Authors: Philouze Clothilde , Turban Sophie , Cremers Beatrice , Caliez Audrey , Lamarche Gwladys , Bernard Catherine , Provost Nicolas , Delerive Philippe
Published: February 2021

In type 2 diabetes (T2D), both muscle and liver are severely resistant to insulin action. Muscle insulin resistance accounts for more than 80% of the impairment in total body glucose disposal in T2D patients and is often characterized by an impaired insulin signaling. Mitsugumin 53 (MG53), a muscle-specific TRIM family protein initially identified as a key regulator of cell membrane repair machinery has been suggested to be a critical regulator of muscle insulin signaling pathway by acting as ubiquitin E3 ligase targeting both the insulin receptor and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1). Here, we show using in vitro and in vivo approaches that MG53 is not a critical regulator of insulin signaling and glucose homeostasis. First, MG53 expression is not consistently regulated in skeletal muscle from various preclinical models of insulin resistance. Second, MG53 gene knock-down in muscle cells does not lead to impaired insulin response as measured by Akt phosphorylation on Serine 473 and glucose uptake. Third, recombinant human MG53 does not alter insulin response in both differentiated C2C12 and human skeletal muscle cells. Fourth, ectopic expression of MG53 in HEK293 cells lacking endogenous MG53 expression fails to alter insulin response as measured by Akt phosphorylation. Finally, both male and female mg53 -/- mice were not resistant to high fat induced obesity and glucose intolerance compared to wild-type mice. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that MG53 is not a critical regulator of insulin signaling pathway in skeletal muscle.
Infants' representation of social hierarchies in absence of physical dominance
Authors: Bas Jesus , Sebastian-Galles Nuria
Published: February 2021

Social hierarchies are ubiquitous in all human relations since birth, but little is known about how they emerge during infancy. Previous studies have shown that infants can represent hierarchical relationships when they arise from the physical superiority of one agent over the other, but humans have the capacity to allocate social status in others through cues that not necessary entail agents’ physical formidability. Here we investigate infants’ capacity to recognize the social status of different agents when there are no observable cues of physical dominance. Our results evidence that a first presentation of the agents' social power when obtaining resources is enough to allow infants predict the outputs of their future. Nevertheless, this capacity arises later (at 18 month-olds but not at 15 month-olds) than showed in previous studies, probably due the increased complexity of the inferences needed to make the predictions.
Inclusion of soybean and linseed oils in the diet of lactating dairy cows makes the milk fatty acid profile nutritionally healthier for the human diet
Authors: X. S. Oliveira Mauricio , Palma Andre S. V. , Reis Barbara R. , Franco Camila S. R. , Marconi Alessandra P. S. , Shiozaki Fabiana A. , G. Reis Leriana , Salles Marcia S. V. , Netto Arlindo S.
Published: February 2021

Fluid milk and its derivatives are important dietary ingredients that contribute to daily nutrient intake of the modern Homo sapiens. To produce milk that is healthier for human consumption, the present study evaluated the effect of adding soybean oil and linseed oil in the diet of lactating cows. The fatty acid profile of milk, milk composition, and the blood parameters of cows were evaluated. Eighteen Holstein cows were distributed in a replicated Latin square design and distributed according to the following treatments: 1) Control (CC): traditional dairy cow diet, without addition of oil; 2) Soybean oil (SO): 2.5% addition of soybean oil to the traditional diet, as a source of omega-6; 3) Linseed oil (LO): 2.5% addition of linseed oil in the diet as a source of omega-3. Milk production was not affected, but oil supplementation decreased feed intake by 1.93 kg/cow/day. The milk fat percentage was significantly lower when cows were supplemented with vegetable oil (3.37, 2.75 and 2.89% for CC, SO and LO, respectively). However, both soybean and linseed oils decreased the concentration of saturated fatty acids (66.89, 56.52 and 56.60 g/100g for CC, SO and LO respectively), increased the amount of unsaturated fatty acids in milk (33.05, 43.39, and 43.35 g/100g for CC, SO and LO respectively) and decreased the ratio between saturated/unsaturated fatty acids (2.12, 1.34, and 1.36 for CC, SO and LO respectively). Furthermore, SO and LO increased significantly the concentration of monounsaturated fatty acids (29.58, 39.55 and 39.47 g/100g for CC, SO and LO respectively), though it did not significantly alter the level of polyunsaturated fatty acids in milk fat (3.57, 3.93 and 3.98 g/100g for CC, SO and LO respectively). Supplementation with LO enhanced the concentration of omega-3 fatty acids on milk (0.32, 0.36, and 1.02 for CC, SO and LO respectively). Blood variables aspartate aminotransferase, gamma glutamyl transferase, urea, albumin, creatinine and total proteins were not altered. On the other hand, total cholesterol, HDL and LDL were greater in the group supplemented with vegetable oils. Supplementation with vegetable oils reduced the dry matter intake of cows, the fat content of milk, and improved saturated/unsaturated fatty acid ratio of milk fat. Compared to the SO treatment, animals fed LO produced milk with greater content of omega-3, and a more desirable omega-6/omega-3 ratio on a human nutrition perspective. Thus, the inclusion of SO and LO in the diet of lactating dairy cows makes the milk fatty acid profile nutritionally healthier for the human consumption.
The effect of changing foot progression angle using real-time visual feedback on rearfoot eversion during running
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Hamed , van Kouwenhove Laurens , Rajabi Reza , Zwerver Johannes , Hijmans Juha M.
Published: February 2021

Atypical rearfoot in/eversion may be an important risk factor for running-related injuries. Prominent interventions for atypical rearfoot eversion include foot orthoses, footwear, and taping but a modification derived from gait retraining to correct atypical rearfoot in/eversion is lacking. We aimed to investigate changes in rearfoot in/eversion, subtalar pronation, medial longitudinal arch angle, and selected lower limb joint biomechanics while performing toe-in/toe-out running using real-time visual feedback. Fifteen female runners participated in this study. Subjects performed toe-in/toe-out running using real-time visual feedback on foot progression angle, which was set ±5° from habitual foot progression angle. 3D kinematics of rearfoot in/eversion, subtalar supination/pronation, medial longitudinal arch angle, foot progression angle, hip flexion, ab/adduction and internal/external rotation, knee flexion, ankle dorsiflexion, and ankle power were analyzed. A repeated-measures ANOVA followed by pairwise comparisons was used to analyze changes between three conditions. Toe-in running compared to normal and toe-out running reduced peak rearfoot eversion (mean difference (MD) with normal = 2.1°; p<0.001, MD with toe-out = 3.5°; p<0.001), peak pronation (MD with normal = -2.0°; p<0.001, MD with toe-out = -3.4; p = <0.001), and peak medial longitudinal arch angle (MD with normal = -0.7°; p = 0.022, MD with toe-out = -0.9; p = 0.005). Toe-out running significantly increased these kinematic factors compared to normal and toe-in running. Toe-in running compared to normal running increased peak hip internal rotation (MD = 2.3; p<0.001), and reduced peak knee flexion (MD = 1.3; p = 0.014). Toe-out running compared to normal running reduced peak hip internal rotation (MD = 2.5; p<0.001), peak hip ab/adduction (MD = 2.5; p<0.001), peak knee flexion (MD = 1.5; p = 0.003), peak ankle dorsiflexion (MD = 1.6; p<0.001), and peak ankle power (MD = 1.3; p = 0.001). Runners were able to change their foot progression angle when receiving real-time visual feedback for foot progression angle. Toe-in/toe-out running altered rearfoot kinematics and medial longitudinal arch angle, therefore supporting the potential value of gait retraining focused on foot progression angle using real-time visual feedback when atypical rearfoot in/eversion needs to be modified. It should be considered that changes in foot progression angle when running is accompanied by changes in lower limb joint biomechanics.
Health-related quality of life after pediatric traumatic brain injury: A qualitative comparison between children’s and parents’ perspectives
Authors: Krenz Ugne , Timmermann Dagmar , Gorbunova Anastasia , Lendt Michael , Schmidt Silke , von Steinbuechel Nicole
Published: February 2021

Background

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) may cause a wide range of symptoms, which can negatively affect the quality of life of patients and their entire families. No internationally and simultaneously developed disease-specific instrument exists for assessing pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after TBI. The aim of the current project is to provide original material from small group interviews with individuals after TBI concerning what they state is relevant for their HRQoL. This material is required for a further study to generate items for age-adapted questionnaires assessing the TBI-specific HRQoL of children and adolescents (C&A): the QOLIBRI-Kiddy/Kid/Ado and proxy versions (Quality of Life after Brain Injury–Kiddy/Kids/Adolescents/Proxy) for individuals aged 6–17 and their parents.

Methods

The semi-structured interviews were conducted with separate small groups of C&A (n = 19), divided into three age groups (5-7y, 8-12y, 13-17y), after mild, moderate, and severe TBI, and with groups of the corresponding parents (n = 26). All interviews lasted for about 60 minutes, were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The statements were investigated by qualitative analyses and sorted into categories relevant to the HRQoL of C&A after TBI. Only descriptive group comparisons but no pairwise comparisons between children and corresponding parents were performed.

Results

The analyses led to 32 subcategories, which were assigned to six main theoretically based HRQoL categories. Many agreements exist between the C&A’s and parents’ perspectives within the main categories, however their focus on HRQoL differs, especially concerning age-related contents. Parents of the youngest participant group already focus on topics such as autonomy, whereas this only becomes relevant for C&A from the age of eight years on. Interestingly, even 5-year-old children were able to discuss their HRQoL, which indicates the importance of a self-report instrument.

Conclusions

Results obtained from this qualitative study identify the content of the HRQoL dimensions important for C&A after TBI and their parents. Both, differences and similarities in the children’s and the parents’ views were investigated, to get a first insight in valid dimensions for the prospective questionnaires to be developed. In a future study, items for the questionnaires will be deducted from the small group interview material and psychometrically tested in C&A after TBI from Germany. This study will address whether all statements were assigned to the suitable dimensions and whether differences between C&A and parents persist.
Trends of proximate low birth weight and associations among children under-five years of age: Evidence from the 2016 Ethiopian demographic and health survey data
Authors: Kassaw Mesfin Wudu , Abebe Ayele Mamo , Kassie Ayelign Mengesha , Abate Biruk Beletew , Masresha Seteamlak Adane
Published: February 2021

Background

Low birth weight puts a newborn at increased risk of death and illness, and limits their productivity in the adulthood period later. The incidence of low birth weight has been selected as an important indicator for monitoring major health goals by the World Summit for Children. The 2014 World Health Organization estimation of child death indicated that 4.53% of total deaths in Ethiopia were due to low birth weight. The aim of this study was to assess trends of proximate low birth weight and associations of low birth weight with potential determinants from 2011 to 2016.

Methods

This study used the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey data (EDHS) as data sources. According to the 2016 EDHS data, all the regions were stratified into urban and rural areas. The variable “size of child” measured according to the report of mothers before two weeks of the EDHS takes placed. The study sample refined from EDHS data and used for this further analysis were 7919 children. A logistic regression model was used to assess the association of proximate low birth weight and potential determinates of proximate low birth weight. But, the data were tested to model fitness and were fitted to Hosmer-Lemeshow-goodness of fit.

Results

The prevalence of proximate low birth weight in Ethiopia was 26.9% (2132), (95%CI = 25.4, 27.9). Of the prevalence of child size in year from 2011 to 2016, 17.1% was very small, and 9.8% was small. In the final multivariate logistic regression model, region (AOR = xx), (955%CI = xx), Afar (AOR = 2.44), (95%CI = 1.82, 3.27), Somalia (AOR = 0.73), (95%CI = 0.55, 0.97), Benishangul-Gumz (AOR = 0.48), (95%CI = 0.35, 0.67), SNNPR (AOR = 0.67), (95%CI = 0.48, 0.93), religion, Protestant (AOR = 0.76), (95%CI = 0.60, 0.95), residence, rural (AOR = 1.39), (95%CI = 1.07, 1.81), child sex, female (AOR = 1.43), (95%CI = 1.29, 1.59), birth type, multiple birth during first parity (AOR = 2.18), (95%CI = 1.41, 3.37), multiple birth during second parity (AOR = 2.92), (95%CI = 1.86, 4.58), preparedness for birth, wanted latter child (AOR = 1.26), (95%CI = 1.09, 1.47), fast and rapid breathing (AOR = 1.22), (95%CI = 1.02, 1.45), maternal education, unable to read and write (AOR = 1.46), (95%CI = 1.56, 2.17), and maternal age, 15–19 years old (AOR = 1.86), (95%CI = 1.19, 2.92) associated with proximate low birth weight.

Conclusions

The proximate LBW prevalence as indicated by small child size is high. Region, religion, residence, birth type, preparedness for birth, fast and rapid breathing, maternal education, and maternal age were associated with proximate low birth weight. Health institutions should mitigating measures on low birth weight with a special emphasis on factors identified in this study.
Investigation of olfactory receptor family 51 subfamily j member 1 (OR51J1) gene susceptibility as a potential breast cancer-associated biomarker
Authors: Asadi Maryam , Ahmadi Nahid , Ahmadvand Simin , Jafari Ali Akbar , Safaei Akbar , Erfani Nasrollah , Ramezani Amin
Published: February 2021

Among cancer treatment methods, targeted therapy using cancer-associated biomarkers has minimum side effects. Recently olfactory receptor (OR) family attracts the researcher’s attention as a favorable biomarker of cancer. Here, a statistical approach using complete data from the human protein atlas database was used to evaluate the potential of OR51J1 gene as a cancer-associated biomarker. To confirm the findings of statistical analysis, the OR51J1 mRNA and protein expression levels in breast tumor and normal tissue were measured using quantitative Real Time PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) techniques. The association with clinicopathological factors was analyzed. Statistical analysis revealed that OR51J1 has a high expression level in more than 20 types of cancer tissues without any expression in 44 normal tissues. In 15 cancer types, including breast cancer, expression score was more than 90%. The qRT-PCR analysis in breast cancer showed OR51J1 have significantly higher expression level in tumors than normal tissues (2.91 fold). The IHC results showed OR51J1 expression on other cellular subtypes than tumor and normal cells, including myoepithelium, fibroblast, and lymphocytes. OR51J1 protein expression in invasive cells, as well as its overall score, showed a significant correlation with ER and PR expression and breast cancer (BC) subtypes. Results revealed the potential of OR51J1 as a cancer-associated biomarker for the diagnosis of breast cancer at the mRNA level.
Daytime admission is associated with higher 1-month survival for pediatric out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: Analysis of a nationwide multicenter observational study in Japan
Authors: Shinohara Mafumi , Muguruma Takashi , Toida Chiaki , Gakumazawa Masayasu , Abe Takeru , Takeuchi Ichiro
Published: February 2021

Objective

Hospital characteristics, such as hospital type and admission time, have been reported to be associated with survival in adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients. However, findings regarding the effects of hospital types on pediatric OHCA patients have been limited. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the hospital characteristics and the outcomes of pediatric OHCA patients.

Methods

This study was a retrospective secondary analysis of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine-out-of-hospital cardiac arrest registry. The period of this study was from 1 June 2014 to 31 December 2015. We enrolled all pediatric patients (those 0–17 years of age) experiencing OHCA in this study. We enrolled all types of OHCA. The primary outcome of this study was 1-month survival after the onset of cardiac arrest.

Results

We analyzed 310 pediatric patients (those 0–17 years of age) with OHCA. In survivors, the rate of witnessed arrest and daytime admission was significantly higher than nonsurvivors (56% vs. 28%, p < 0.001: 49% vs. 31%; p = 0.03, respectively). The multiple logistic regression model showed that daytime admission was related to 1-month survival (odds ratio, OR: 95% confidence interval, CI, 3.64: 1.23–10.80) (p = 0.02). OHCA of presumed cardiac etiology and witnessed OHCA were associated with higher 1-month survival. (OR: 95% CI, 3.92: 1.23–12.47, and 6.25: 1.98–19.74, respectively). Further analyses based on the time of admission showed that there were no significant differences in the proportions of patients with witnessed arrest and who received bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency medical service response time by admission time.

Conclusion

Pediatric OHCA patients who were admitted during the day had a higher 1-month survival rate after cardiac arrest than patients who were admitted at night.
Tree rows in temperate agroforestry croplands alter the composition of soil bacterial communities
Authors: Beule Lukas , Karlovsky Petr
Published: February 2021

Background

Tree-based intercropping (agroforestry) has been advocated to reduce adverse environmental impacts of conventional arable cropping. Modern agroforestry systems in the temperate zone are alley-cropping systems that combine rows of fast-growing trees with rows of arable crops. Soil microbial communities in these systems have been investigated intensively; however, molecular studies with high taxonomical resolution are scarce.

Methods

Here, we assessed the effect of temperate agroforestry on the abundance, diversity and composition of soil bacterial communities at three paired poplar-based alley cropping and conventional monoculture cropland systems using real-time PCR and Illumina sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA genes. Two of the three systems grew summer barley (Hordeum vulgare); one system grew maize (Zea mays) in the sampling year. To capture the spatial heterogeneity induced by the tree rows, soil samples in the agroforestry systems were collected along transects spanning from the centre of the tree rows to the centre of the agroforestry crop rows.

Results

Tree rows of temperate agroforestry systems increased the abundance of soil bacteria while their alpha diversity remained largely unaffected. The composition of the bacterial communities in tree rows differed from those in arable land (crop rows of the agroforestry systems and conventional monoculture croplands). Several bacterial groups in soil showed strong association with either tree rows or arable land, revealing that the introduction of trees into arable land through agroforestry is accompanied by the introduction of a tree row-associated microbiome.

Conclusion

The presence of tree row-associated bacteria in agroforestry increases the overall microbial diversity of the system. We speculate that the increase in biodiversity is accompanied by functional diversification. Differences in plant-derived nutrients (root exudates and tree litter) and management practices (fertilization and tillage) likely account for the differences between bacterial communities of tree rows and arable land in agroforestry systems.
Irakaslegaiak eta idazmenaren ebaluazioa: jarrerak eta jokabideak
Authors: Martínez-García Leire , Boillos Mari Mar
Published: February 2021

Azken hamarkadetan, ebaluazioak hizkuntzen irakaskuntzaren arloan estatus peda- gogikoa lortu du. Tresna didaktiko gisa duen balioaren eta eskuratze-prozesuan duen garrantziaren on- dorioz, ebaluazioa kalifikaziotik desberdindu da, are gehiago idazmena irakasteko prozesuaren kasuan. Lan honen helburua etorkizuneko irakasleek trebetasun horren ebaluazioari dagokionez dituzten ja- rrerak eta jarduteko moduak ezagutzea da. Izan ere, irakasle gisa jardun aurretik haientzat ebaluazioa zer den eta horren inguruan barneratuta dituzten ideiak analizatzean datza lan hau. Horretarako, Lehen Hezkuntzako graduko azken ikasturteko 51 ikaslek egindako galdetegiak aztertu dira. Emaitzek era- kusten dutenaren arabera, orokorrean, ebaluazioaren ikuspegi hezigarria dute eta helburu horretarako erabil ditzaketen tresnak ezagutzen dituzte. Hala ere, badakite unibertsitatean jaso duten formakuntza baino gehiago behar dutela.
A Quality Innovation Strategy for an Inter-regional Digital Innovation Hub
Authors: Queiroz Jonas , Leitão Paulo , Pontes Joseane , Chaves André , Parra Javier , Perez-Pons María Eugenia
Published: February 2021

Industry 4.0 is reshaping the way all the economic sectors are working. The complete adoption and understanding by the companies, large or small, of the digital transformation opportunities and benefits, requires the existence of effective instruments. The Digital Innovation Hubs (DIHs) are an important instrument, strongly promoted by the European Commission, to help companies to take advantage of digital opportunities. Aiming to boost and create synergies between several DIHs and research centers located in the northern region of Portugal and Spain, and considering the disruptive ICT technologies, the establishment of an inter-regional DIH that results from the cooperation between these entities assumes a crucial importance to transform this region into an innovative pole of reference. This paper aims to describe the strategy for the management and improvement of the quality of the innovation being developed by this inter-regional DIH under the scope of the DISRUPTIVE project. Besides considering the individual strategies of the associated members, it includes cooperative aspects, regarding the sharing of knowledge, technology, and skills, aiming to improve the quality of innovation, as well as the adoption of digitization by the companies in this region.
Efficiency, profitability and productivity: Technological applications in the agricultural sector
Authors: Pérez-Pons María Eugenia , Parra-Domínguez Javier , Chamoso Pablo , Plaza Marta , Alonso Ricardo
Published: February 2021

New technological advances have made it possible to improve precision and efficiency in the consumption of natural resources. This article presents a series of different use cases in which technology has benefited peripheral and cross-border areas and continues to do so. Real-scenario implementations of cutting-edge Internet of Things (IoT) technologies have been conducted in Northern Portugal and Castilla y León. The findings demonstrate the direct impact of technological applications on the regions and the production efficiency.
Blockchain: a brief review of Agri-Food Supply Chain Solutions and Opportunities
Authors: Parra Domínguez Javier , Roseiro Pedro
Published: February 2021

This article aims at presenting Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies from business perspective (although providing adequate technology context) and, especially, highlighting concrete implementations in Agri-Food Supply Chain, bringing security, transparency and robustness to solutions, and enabling the creation of added value through the provisioning of information to consumers which allow them to understand the origin, the transformation and the transportation of agri-food goods. It also brings some examples of European Programmes and Projects that are supporting innovative solutions to reach the market.
Saccharomyces Kluyveri Fungemia in a Patient with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: E. E. Elleuch , M Hammami , C Marrekchi , Fatma Cheikhrouhou Fatma Cheikhrouhou , H Trabelsi , M Maâlej , B Hammami , I Maaloul , Ayedi A. , D Lahiani , M Ben Jemaa
Published: February 2021

We report a case of a young woman with acquired immune deficiency syndrome admitted with fever and abdominal pain. Saccharomyces kluyveri was isolated in blood culture. She was successfully treated with fluconazole. This case demonstrates the pathogenicity of Saccharomyces Kluyveri in immunocompromised host.
Contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux and intrarenal reflux: a comparison of diagnostic performance with fluoroscopic voiding cystourethrography
Authors: Kim Daehee , Choi Young Hun , Choi Gayoung , Lee Seulbi , Lee Seunghyun , Cho Yeon Jin , Lim Seon Hee , Kang Hee Gyung , Cheon Jung-Eun
Published: February 2021

Purpose: This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ce-VUS) using a second-generation ultrasound contrast agent for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and intrarenal reflux (IRR), and compared it with that of standard fluoroscopic voiding cystourethrography (VCUG).Methods: Thirty-two consecutive children from April to October 2019 were included in this study. ce-VUS and VCUG were performed simultaneously by two operators with intravesical infusion of a mixture of ultrasound contrast medium, iodinated contrast medium and water. Two pediatric radiologists independently reviewed the ce-VUS and VCUG images and reported the presence and degree of VUR (grades I-V), and the presence and type of IRR.Results: Twenty-seven of 63 urinary systems showed VUR. Interobserver agreement for VUR grading was very good for both examinations (κ=0.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.82 to 0.92 for ce-VUS and κ=0.92; 95% CI, 0.87 to 0.96 for VCUG). The detection rate of VUR showed no significant difference between the two examinations (P=0.370). Four cases of VUR were missed on ce-VUS, while one case of VUR was missed on VCUG. All four false-negative cases on ce-VUS were grade 1 VUR. The two examinations showed very good agreement regarding VUR grading (κ =0.89; 95% CI, 0.81 to 0.96). IRR was more frequently detected with ce-VUS than with VCUG (10 cases with ce-VUS vs. 3 cases with VCUG, P=0.016).Conclusion: ce-VUS showed very good agreement with VCUG for detecting grade 2 VUR and above, while grade 1 VUR was sometimes missed with ce-VUS. IRR was more frequently detected with ce-VUS than with VCUG.