bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manganese toxicity disrupts indole acetic acid homeostasis and suppresses CO2assimilation reaction in rice plants
Authors: Takagi Daisuke , Ishiyama Keiki , Suganami Mao , Ushijima Tomokazu , Fujii Takeshi , Tazoe Youshi , Kawasaki Michio , Noguchi Ko , Makino Amane
Published: March 2021

Despite the essentiality of Mn in terrestrial plants, its excessive accumulation in plant tissues causes growth defects, known as Mn toxicity. Mn toxicity can be divided into apoplastic and symplastic types depending on its onset. For growth defects, symplastic rather than apoplastic Mn toxicity is hypothesised to be more critical. However, details of the relationship between growth defects and symplastic Mn toxicity remains elusive. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of symplastic Mn toxicity in rice plants. We found that under excess Mn conditions, CO2assimilation was inhibited by stomatal closure, and both carbon anabolic and catabolic activities were decreased. In addition to stomatal dysfunction, stomatal and leaf anatomical development were also altered by excess Mn accumulation. Furthermore, the indole acetic acid (IAA) concentration was decreased, and auxin-responsive gene expression analyses showed IAA-deficient symptoms in leaves due to excess Mn accumulation. These results suggest that excessive Mn accumulation causes IAA deficiency, and low IAA concentrations suppress plant growth by suppressing stomatal opening and leaf anatomical development for efficient CO2assimilation in leaves.

HIGHLIGHT

Increased Mn concentration lowers auxin concentrations in rice leaves, which suppresses photosynthesis by changing stomatal function and development.
Phylotranscriptomics points to multiple independent origins of multicellularity and cellular differentiation in the volvocine algae
Authors: Lindsey Charles Ross , Rosenzweig Frank , Herron Matthew D
Published: March 2021

The volvocine algae, which include the single-celled speciesChlamydomonas reinhardtiiand the colonial speciesVolvox carteri, serve as a model in which to study the evolution of multicellularity and cellular differentiation. Studies reconstructing the evolutionary history of this group have often relied on datasets of one to a few genes for phylogenetic inference and ancestral character state reconstruction. These studies suggest that multicellularity evolved only once in the volvocine algae, that each of its three colonial families is monophyletic, and that there have been at least three independent origins of cellular differentiation in the group. We performed RNA-Seq on 55 strains representing 47 volvocine algal species and obtained similar data from curated databases on 13 additional strains. We compiled a dataset consisting of transcripts for 40 single-copy, protein-coding, nuclear genes, then subjected the predicted amino acid sequences of these genes to maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and coalescent-based analyses. These analyses show that multicellularity independently evolved at least twice in the volvocine algae and that the colonial family Goniaceae is not monophyletic. Our data further indicate that cellular differentiation independently arose at least four and possibly as many as six times within the group. Altogether, these results show how multicellularity and cellular differentiation are evolutionarily labile in the volvocine algae, affirming their importance for the study of major transitions in the history of life.
GABAergic neuronal IL-4R mediates T cell effect on memory
Authors: Fu Zhongxiao , Dykstra Taitea , Wall Morgan , Li Huiping , Salvador Andrea Francesca , Zou Bende , Yan Ni , Andrews Patrick H. , Goldman Dylan H. , Papadopoulos Zachary , Smirnov Igor , Xie Xinmin S. , Herz Jasmin , Kipnis Jonathan
Published: March 2021

Mechanisms governing how immune cells and their derived molecules impact homeostatic brain function are still poorly understood. Here, we elucidate neuronal mechanisms underlying effects of T cells on synaptic function and episodic memory. Depletion of CD4 T cells led to memory deficits and impaired long term potentiation. Severe combined immune-deficient (SCID) mice exhibited amnesia, which was reversible by repopulation with T cells from wild-type but not from IL-4-knockout mice. This rescue was mediated via IL-4 receptors (IL-4R) expressed on neurons. Exploration of snRNAseq of neurons participating in memory processing provided insights into synaptic organization and plasticity-associated pathways and genes regulated by immune cells and molecules. IL-4Rα knockout in inhibitory neurons impaired contextual fear memory, suggesting participation of an IL-4-associated switch in regulating synaptic function and promoting contextual fear memory. These findings provide insights into neuroimmune interactions at the transcriptional and functional levels in neurons.
What’s under the Christmas tree? Soil acidification alters fir tree rhizosphere bacterial and eukaryotic communities, their interactions, and functional traits
Authors: Steven Blaire , La Reau Jacquelyn C. , Taerum Stephen J. , Zuverza-Mena Nubia , Cowles Richard S.
Published: March 2021

pH has been identified as a master regulator of the soil environment, controlling the solubility and availability of nutrients. As such, soil pH exerts a strong influence on indigenous microbial communities. In this study we describe a soil acidification experiment and the resulting effects on the rhizosphere communities of fir trees on a Christmas tree plantation. The acidification treatment reduced the pH of bulk soil by ∼1.4 pH units and was associated with reduced Ca, Mg, and organic matter content. Similarly, root chemistry differed due to soil acidification with roots in acidified soils showing significantly higher Al, Mn, and Zn content and reduced levels of B and Ca. 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA gene sequencing was pursued to characterize the bacterial/archaeal and eukaryotic communities in the rhizosphere soils. The acidification treatment induced dramatic and significant changes in the microbial populations, with thousands of 16S RNA gene sequence variants and hundreds of 18S rRNA gene variants being significantly different in relative abundance between the treatments. Additionally, co-occurrence networks showed that bacterial and eukaryotic interactions, network topology, and hub taxa were significantly different when constructed from the control and acidified soil rRNA gene amplicon libraries. Finally, metagenome sequencing showed that the taxonomic shifts in the community resulted in alterations to the functional traits of the dominant community members. Several biochemical pathways related to sulfur and nitrogen cycling distinguished the metagenomes generated from the control and acidified soils, demonstrating the myriad of effects soils acidification induces to rhizosphere microbes.

IMPORTANCE

Soil pH has been identified as the property that exerts the largest influence on soil microbial populations. We employed a soil acidification experiment to investigate the effect of lowering soil pH on the bacterial and eukaryotic populations in the rhizosphere of Christmas trees. Acidification of the soils drove alterations of fir tree root chemistry and large shifts in the taxonomic and functional composition of the communities, involving pathways in sulfur and nitrogen cycling. These data demonstrate that soil pH influences are manifest across all organisms inhabiting the soil, from the host plant to the microorganisms inhabiting the rhizosphere soils. Thus, pH is an important factor that needs to be considered when investigating soil and plant health, the status of the soil microbiome, and terrestrial nutrient cycling.
The Burden Borne by Protein Methyltransferases: Rates and Equilibria of Nonenzymatic Methylation of Amino Acid Side-Chains by SAM in Water
Authors: Lewis Charles A. , Wolfenden Richard
Published: March 2021

SAM is a powerful methylating agent, with a methyl group transfer potential matching the phosphoryl group transfer potential of ATP. SAM-dependent N-methyltransferases have evolved to catalyze the modification of specific lysine residues in histones and transcription factors, in addition to generating epinephrine, N-methylnicotinamide, and a quaternary amine (betaine) that is used to maintain osmotic pressure in plants and halophilic bacteria. To assess the catalytic power of these enzymes and their potential susceptibility to transition state and multisubstrate analogue inhibitors, we determined the rates and positions of equilibrium of methyl transfer from the trimethylsulfonium ion to model amines in the absence of a catalyst. Unlike the methyl group transfer potential of SAM, which becomes more negative with increasing pH throughout the normal pH range, equilibrium constants for the hydrolytic demethylation of secondary, tertiary and quaternary amines are found to be insensitive to changing pH and resemble to each other in magnitude, with an average ΔG value of ∼ -0.7 kcal/mol at pH 7. Thus, each of the three steps in the mono- di- and trimethylation of lysine by SAM is accompanied by a free energy change of -7.5 kcal/mol in neutral solution. Arrhenius analysis of the uncatalyzed reactions shows that the unprotonated form of glycine attacks the trimethylsulfonium ion (TMS++) with a second order rates constant of 1.8 × 10−7M-1s-1at 25 °C (ΔH‡= 22 kcal/mol and TΔS‡= -6 kcal/mol). Comparable values are observed for the methylation of secondary and tertiary amines, with k25= 1.1 × 10−7M-1s-1for sarcosine and 4.3 × 10−8M-1s-1for dimethylglycine. The nonenzymatic methylation of imidazole and methionine by TMS++, benchmarks for the methylation of histidine and methionine residues by SETD3, exhibit k25values of 3.3 × 10−9and 1.2 × 10−9M-1s-1respectively. Lysine methylation by SAM, although slow under physiological conditions (t1/27 weeks at 25 °C), is accelerated 1.1 × 1012-fold at the active site of a SET domain methyltransferase.
Diffraction line profiles from polydisperse crystalline systems. Corrigenda
Authors: Scardi Paolo
Published: March 2021

Equation (16) and some entries in Table 1 in the article by Scardi & Leoni [(2001), Acta Cryst. A57, 604–613] are corrected.
Geopolitical risk, economic policy uncertainty and asset returns in Chinese financial markets
Authors: Chiang Thomas C.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper investigates the impact of a change in economic policy uncertainty (ΔEPUt) and the absolute value of a change in geopolitical risk (|ΔGPRt|) on the returns of stocks, bonds and gold in the Chinese market.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses Engle's (2009) dynamic conditional correlation (DCC) model and Chiang's (1988) rolling correlation model to generate correlations of asset returns over time and analyzes their responses to (ΔEPUt) and  |ΔGPRt|.

Findings

Evidence shows that stock-bond return correlations are negatively correlated to ΔEPUt, whereas stock-gold return correlations are positively related to the |ΔGPRt|, but negatively correlated with ΔEPUt. This study finds evidence that stock returns are adversely related to the risk/uncertainty measured by downside risk,  ΔEPUt and  |ΔGPRt|, whereas the bond return is positively related to a rise in ΔEPUt; the gold return is positively correlated with a heightened |ΔGPRt|.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are based entirely on the data for China's asset markets; further research may expand this analysis to other emerging markets, depending on the availability of GPR indices.

Practical implications

Evidence suggests that the performance of the Chinese market differs from advanced markets. This study shows that gold is a safe haven and can be viewed as an asset to hedge against policy uncertainty and geopolitical risk in Chinese financial markets.

Social implications

This study identify the special role for the gold prices in response to the economic policy uncertainty and the geopolitical risk. Evidence shows that stock and bond return correlation is negatively related to the ΔEPU and support the flight-to-quality hypothesis. However, the stock-gold return correlation is positively related to |ΔGPR|, resulting from the income or wealth effect.

Originality/value

The presence of a dynamic correlations between stock-bond and stock-gold relations in response to  ΔEPUt and  |ΔGPRt| has not previously been tested in the literature. Moreover, this study finds evidence that bond-gold correlations are negatively correlated to both ΔEPUt and  |ΔGPRt|.
Time-cost optimization in repetitive project scheduling with limited resources
Authors: Zou Xin , Zhang Lihui , Zhang Qian
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop a time-cost optimization model to schedule repetitive projects while considering limited resource availability.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is based on the constraint programming (CP) framework; it integrates multiple scheduling characteristics of repetitive activities such as continuous or fragmented execution, atypical activities and coexistence of different modes in an activity. To improve project performance while avoiding inefficient hiring and firing conditions, the strategy of bidirectional acceleration is presented and implemented, which requires keeping regular changes in the execution modes between successive subactivities in the same activity.

Findings

Two case studies involving a real residential building construction project and a hotel refurbishing project are used to demonstrate the application of the proposed model based on four different scenarios. The results show that (1) the CP model has great advantages in terms of solving speed and solution quality than its equivalent mathematical model, (2) higher project performance can be obtained compared to using previously developed models and (3) the model can be easily replicated or even modified to enable multicrew implementation.

Originality/value

The original contribution of this research is presenting a novel CP-based repetitive scheduling optimization model to solve the multimode resource-constrained time-cost tradeoff problem of repetitive projects. The model has the capability of minimizing the project total cost that is composed of direct costs, indirect costs, early completion incentives and late completion penalties.
Sustainable strategy to create multisector or unisector smart economic hubs
Authors: Rasmy Mohammed Osama , Abu Atta Tarek Abdel Latif , Mohamed Ibrahim Asmaa Abdelaty
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study explores the best strategies for regional economic development to attract highly skilled populations, regardless of whether the region is a multisector or unisector economic hub. It also determines the development variables affecting the success of integrated regional economic hubs to achieve spatial equality, enhance economic productivity and attain environmental sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

In addition to a qualitative analysis, this study employed quantitative techniques using SPSS software. This allowed amplification of the most significant explanatory variables affecting the weaknesses and strengths of economic hubs.

Findings

The results highlight approaches that can be used to achieve socio-economic sustainability in regional hubs. These include multisectors or main centralised hubs (smart economic regional capital), which provide new services to regions and act as a unidevelopment sector or as a regional, economic capital.

Research limitations/implications

The study analyses the effect of economic strategies and integration of natural resources and the required core services in regional economic development.

Practical implications

Case studies of successful economic hubs are discussed. The most important services proposed in such hubs promote human development and increase the standard of living.

Social implications

Integration between the hubs in a region is fundamental to attracting direct investments that can benefit the local population.

Originality/value

The results could help governments, economists and planners implement multisector developmental hubs to achieve sustainable development.
Application of centrifugation technology for production of chhana – An Indian soft cheese
Authors: V K Ammu , Minz Prashant Saurabh , Vairat Amita D , Singh Ashish Kumar , Sinha Chitranayak
Published: March 2021

The present study was aimed at applying centrifugation for the rapid removal of whey from chhana and investigating the effect of processing parameters on various attributes of chhana. A prototype model based on centrifugation was developed for rapid whey removal from chhana. The optimised spin speed and centrifugation time for manufacturing chhana using the developed system were 80 rpm and 7 min, respectively. Whey removal at centrifugation speed of 39.09 rpm for 2.57 min resulted in production of soft chhana with minimum hardness value (2.054 N).
Root dentine thickness in C‐shaped lower second molars after instrumentation: A CBCT and micro‐CT study
Authors: Martin Gabriela , Arce Brissón Georgette , Chen Binwen , Noemí de Caso Cecilia , Boetto Ana Cecilia , Jacobo María Inés , Higa Romina , Braschi Silvia Marta , Marchegiani Silvio , Monsalvo Andrés , Shen Ya , Haapasalo Markus
Published: March 2021

Stripping perforation is a possible complication in instrumentation of C‐shaped canals. This study evaluated the minimum thickness of the root canal wall in C‐shaped teeth after instrumentation. Twelve extracted C‐shaped mandibular second molars (four teeth of type I, II and III each) were examined by CBCT (voxel size 90 μm) before and after instrumentation with WOG primary file. Micro‐CT scans (voxel size 30 μm) were obtained after instrumentation. Percentage of canal wall area touched by the file and minimum thickness of dentine were measured and compared between CBCT and micro‐CT. In type I C‐shape canals, less than 10% of the canal wall area was touched by the instrument. In ten teeth, the shortest distance to root surface was from the instrumented area; no perforations occurred. CBCT and micro‐CT measurements were in good agreement in ten cases; in two teeth, micro‐CT revealed considerably shorter distance to root surface. The two shortest distances were 0.27 and 0.41 mm.
Investigating the population structure and genetic diversity of Arabian horses in Oman using SNP markers
Authors: Al Abri M. A. , Brooks S. A. , Al‐Saqri N. , Alkharousi K. , Johnson E. H. , Alqaisi O. , Al‐Rawahi A. , Al Marzooqi W.
Published: March 2021

Arabian horses were selected for metabolic efficiency, beauty, efficiency and endurance. Therefore, Bedouins have for centuries traced their prized horses’ ancestries. With the establishment of the World Arabian Horse Organization (WAHO), registration of Arabian horses became centralized and countries worldwide registered them in its database. Most existing Arabian horses in Oman today were imported after the 1970s and are predominantly flat‐racing Arabians. This work aimed at revealing the genetic background and diversity of Omani Arabian horses by comparing them with Arabian horses from a diverse genetic background. To that end, we genotyped 63 randomly sampled Arabian horses from Oman using the Illumina Equine SNP70. For comparison, SNP genotypes of 12 Saudi Arabian horses, 27 French, 77 Egyptian, 11 Polish and 36 US Arabians were included in the study. We additionally included 17 Thoroughbred horses and 21 horses representing large and small breeds as an outgroup. Our MDS analysis and phylogenetic analysis showed that the Arabian horses in Oman cluster primarily with French Arabian horses, with a few horses clustering within the Polish/US Arabians. The French Arabian horse cluster was the closest to the Thoroughbred horses. Amongst the Arabian horses, plink average genomic inbreeding levels were highest in the Egyptian Arabian (0.169) followed by the Saudi Arabian horses (0.137) and lowest in the Omani and French Arabian horses, −0.041 and −0.079 respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the genetic background and diversity of Arabian horses in Oman. Our results demonstrated a definite subpopulation structure among Arabian horses and this information should advise future decision‐making on Arabian horse breeding.
Differentiation of COVID‐19 signs and symptoms from allergic rhinitis and common cold: An ARIA‐EAACI‐GA2LEN consensus
Authors: Hagemann Jan , Onorato Gabrielle L. , Jutel Marek , Akdis Cezmi A. , Agache Ioana , Zuberbier Torsten , Czarlewski Wienczyslawa , Mullol Joaquim , Bedbrook Anna , Bachert Claus , Bennoor Kazi S. , Bergmann Karl‐Christian , Braido Fulvio , Camargos Paulo , Caraballo Luis , Cardona Victoria , Casale Thomas , Cecchi Lorenzo , Chivato Tomas , Chu Derek K. , Cingi Cemal , Correia‐de‐Sousa Jaime , del Giacco Stefano , Dokic Dejan , Dykewicz Mark , Ebisawa Motohiro , El‐Gamal Yehia , Emuzyte Regina , Fauquert Jean‐Luc , Fiocchi Alessandro , Fokkens Wytske J. , Fonseca Joao A. , Gemicioglu Bilun , Gomez René‐Maximiliano , Gotua Maia , Haahtela Tari , Hamelmann Eckard , Iinuma Tomohisa , Ivancevich Juan Carlos , Jassem Ewa , Kalayci Omer , Kardas Przemyslaw , Khaitov Musa , Kuna Piotr , Kvedariene Violeta , Larenas‐Linnemann Desiree E. , Lipworth Brian , Makris Michael , Maspero Jorge F. , Miculinic Neven , Mihaltan Florin , Mohammad Yousser , Montefort Stephen , Morais‐Almeida Mario , Mösges Ralph , Naclerio Robert , Neffen Hugo , Niedoszytko Marek , O’Hehir Robyn E. , Ohta Ken , Okamoto Yoshitaka , Okubo Kimi , Panzner Petr , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Passalacqua Giovanni , Patella Vincenzo , Pereira Ana , Pfaar Oliver , Plavec Davor , Popov Todor A. , Prokopakis Emmanuel P. , Puggioni Francesca , Raciborski Filip , Reijula Jere , Regateiro Frederico S. , Reitsma Sietze , Romano Antonino , Rosario Nelson , Rottem Menachem , Ryan Dermot , Samolinski Boleslaw , Sastre Joaquin , Solé Dirceu , Sova Milan , Stellato Cristiana , Suppli‐Ulrik Charlotte , Tsiligianni Ioanna , Valero Antonio , Valiulis Arunas , Valovirta Erkka , Vasankari Tuula , Ventura Maria Teresa , Wallace Dana , Wang De Yun , Williams Siân , Yorgancioglu Arzu , Yusuf Osman M. , Zernotti Mario , Bousquet Jean , Klimek Ludger
Published: March 2021

Background

Although there are many asymptomatic patients, one of the problems of COVID‐19 is early recognition of the disease. COVID‐19 symptoms are polymorphic and may include upper respiratory symptoms. However, COVID‐19 symptoms may be mistaken with the common cold or allergic rhinitis. An ARIA‐EAACI study group attempted to differentiate upper respiratory symptoms between the three diseases.

Methods

A modified Delphi process was used. The ARIA members who were seeing COVID‐19 patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire on the upper airway symptoms of COVID‐19, common cold and allergic rhinitis.

Results

Among the 192 ARIA members who were invited to respond to the questionnaire, 89 responded and 87 questionnaires were analysed. The consensus was then reported. A two‐way ANOVA revealed significant differences in the symptom intensity between the three diseases (p < .001).

Conclusions

This modified Delphi approach enabled the differentiation of upper respiratory symptoms between COVID‐19, the common cold and allergic rhinitis. An electronic algorithm will be devised using the questionnaire.
Global sensitivity analysis of randomized trials with nonmonotone missing binary outcomes: Application to studies of substance use disorders
Authors: Scharfstein Daniel O. , Steingrimsson Jon , McDermott Aidan , Wang Chenguang , Ray Souvik , Campbell Aimee , Nunes Edward , Matthews Abigail
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we present a method for conducting global sensitivity analysis of randomized trials in which binary outcomes are scheduled to be collected on participants at prespecified points in time after randomization and these outcomes may be missing in a nonmonotone fashion. We introduce a class of missing data assumptions, indexed by sensitivity parameters, which are anchored around the missing not at random assumption introduced by Robins (Statistics in Medicine, 1997). For each assumption in the class, we establish that the joint distribution of the outcomes is identifiable from the distribution of the observed data. Our estimation procedure uses the plug‐in principle, where the distribution of the observed data is estimated using random forests. We establish asymptotic properties for our estimation procedure. We illustrate our methodology in the context of a randomized trial designed to evaluate a new approach to reducing substance use, assessed by testing urine samples twice weekly, among patients entering outpatient addiction treatment. We evaluate the finite sample properties of our method in a realistic simulation study. Our methods have been implemented in an R package entitled slabm.
A generalized robust allele‐based genetic association test
Authors: Zhang Lin , Sun Lei
Published: March 2021

The allele‐based association test, comparing allele frequency difference between case and control groups, is locally most powerful. However, application of the classical allelic test is limited in practice, because the method is sensitive to the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) assumption, not applicable to continuous traits, and not easy to account for covariate effect or sample correlation. To develop a generalized robust allelic test, we propose a new allele‐based regression model with individual allele as the response variable. We show that the score test statistic derived from this robust and unifying regression framework contains a correction factor that explicitly adjusts for potential departure from HWE and encompasses the classical allelic test as a special case. When the trait of interest is continuous, the corresponding allelic test evaluates a weighted difference between individual‐level allele frequency estimate and sample estimate where the weight is proportional to an individual's trait value, and the test remains valid under Y‐dependent sampling. Finally, the proposed allele‐based method can analyze multiple (continuous or binary) phenotypes simultaneously and multiallelic genetic markers, while accounting for covariate effect, sample correlation, and population heterogeneity. To support our analytical findings, we provide empirical evidence from both simulation and application studies.
Mini‐microform cleft lip with complete cleft alveolus and palate: A case report
Authors: Fujiwara Kumiko , Yoshida Mitsuna , Nakamichi Naomi , Saitoh Satoru , Takaichi Mayu , Ishizaka Risa , Tomihara Kei , Noguchi Makoto
Published: March 2021

Cleft lip and cleft alveolus are caused by incomplete fusion of the frontonasal and maxillary prominences. However, milder forms of cleft lip are rarely accompanied by cleft alveolus. Here, we report a rare case of mini‐microform cleft lip with complete cleft alveolus and cleft palate. No findings suggestive of cleft lip were evident on initial examination. However, three‐dimensional facial measurements confirmed the presence of cleft lip despite no evidence of orbicularis oris muscle (OOM) rupture on ultrasonography. Collapsed nostril, as observed in this case, is usually associated with OOM rupture. However, it can also be caused by skeletal abnormalities, such as cleft alveolus. Three‐dimensional facial measurements and ultrasonography can assist in accurate diagnosis when visual examination is ambiguous.
Action Unit Driven Facial Expression Synthesis from a Single Image with Patch Attentive GAN
Authors: Zhao Yong , Yang Le , Pei Ercheng , Oveneke Meshia Cédric , Alioscha‐Perez Mitchel , Li Longfei , Jiang Dongmei , Sahli Hichem
Published: March 2021

Recent advances in generative adversarial networks (GANs) have shown tremendous success for facial expression generation tasks. However, generating vivid and expressive facial expressions at Action Units (AUs) level is still challenging, due to the fact that automatic facial expression analysis for AU intensity itself is an unsolved difficult task. In this paper, we propose a novel synthesis‐by‐analysis approach by leveraging the power of GAN framework and state‐of‐the‐art AU detection model to achieve better results for AU‐driven facial expression generation. Specifically, we design a novel discriminator architecture by modifying the patch‐attentive AU detection network for AU intensity estimation and combine it with a global image encoder for adversarial learning to force the generator to produce more expressive and realistic facial images. We also introduce a balanced sampling approach to alleviate the imbalanced learning problem for AU synthesis. Extensive experimental results on DISFA and DISFA+ show that our approach outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art in terms of photo‐realism and expressiveness of the facial expression quantitatively and qualitatively.
Birds that are more commonly encountered in the wild attract higher public interest online
Authors: Mittermeier John C. , Roll Uri , Matthews Thomas J. , Correia Ricardo , Grenyer Rich
Published: March 2021

Large body size, the defining characteristic of “charismatic megafauna,” is often viewed as the most significant correlate of higher public interest in species. However, common, local species (many of which are not large) can also generate public interest. We explored the relative importance of body size versus local occurrence in patterns of online interest in birds using a large sample of digital human‐wildlife interactions (367 million Wikipedia pageviews) that included more than 10,000 bird species and a range of cultural and geographic contexts (represented by 25 Wikipedia language editions). We compared interest in Wikipedia, as measured by pageviews, with a bird's body size and its regional observation frequency (using data from eBird.org). We found that local species (i.e., those that occur in the wild in the country responsible for the majority of a Wikipedia language edition's pageviews) attract more pageviews than global species. Both body size and observation frequency had a positive correlation with Wikipedia pageviews across languages, but eBird observation frequency explained more of the variance in pageviews on average. In a model that included both observation frequency and body size, observation frequency was a significantly better predictor of pageviews than body size in 24 of 25 languages. Our results demonstrate that the opportunity to encounter birds in the wild is a significant correlate of increased online interest in birds across multiple linguistic and geographic contexts. This relationship provides insight into why some species attract greater interest than others and emphasizes the overlooked potential of common species in conservation marketing.
Increasing diversity to save biodiversity: Rising to the challenge and supporting Indonesian women in conservation
Authors: Poor Erin E. , Imron Muhammad Ali , Novalina Rafselia , Shaffer L. Jen , Mullinax Jennifer M.
Published: March 2021

Indonesia is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world yet suffers from the highest global deforestation rate. Having more diverse voices in conservation science contributing innovative ideas and solutions could benefit the country's biodiversity. However, some aspects of conservation work in Indonesia remain male‐dominated, particularly fieldwork. Understanding motivations and challenges for women pursuing a conservation career is critical to diversifying the workforce. We present some of the motivations and challenges of women conservation scientists attending a field skills and networking workshop in Sumatra, Indonesia, in September 2019. We conducted semistructured surveys in a preliminary study with female conservation scientists at the beginning of their careers and those with established careers of at least 3 years. Early‐career women predominantly cited a love of nature as their main motivator and cultural‐based gender norms as their primary challenge. Established career women discussed slowly improving gender norms and the importance of mentors throughout their careers. Without active engagement in career training and support over the long‐term for underrepresented groups in conservation, we could lose out on novel perspectives that could help solve the world's most daunting ecological problems.
Olfactory identification impairment in early‐and late‐onset obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Li Ze‐tian , Tan Shao‐zhen , Lyu Zhi‐hong , Zou Lai‐quan
Published: March 2021

Background

Early‐onset obsessive–compulsive disorder (EOCD) is a comparatively severe subtype of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Olfactory dysfunction is a common symptom of OCD, but all previous studies have focused on late‐onset OCD (LOCD).

Methods

The current study compared olfactory identification ability in EOCD patients and age‐matched and sex‐matched LOCD patients and healthy controls. Thirty patients with EOCD, 30 patients with LOCD and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. Olfactory function was measured using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test. The Logical Memory and Visual Reproduction components of the Revised Wechsler Memory Scale were used to evaluate verbal and visual memory.

Results

There were significant differences in olfactory identification ability between the three groups. EOCD patients were comparable to LOCD patients, while both patients' group showing worse olfactory identification ability than controls. Olfactory identification ability was not significantly correlated with verbal and visual memory or clinical symptoms in the EOCD group or the LOCD group.

Conclusions

The results of the present study suggest that olfactory identification ability may be a relatively stable indicator of OCD, independent of age, duration of illness, verbal and visual memory, and severity of clinical symptoms.
The recognition of pain and learned behaviour in horses which buck
Authors: Dyson S. , Thomson K.
Published: March 2021

Bucking behaviour in horses is potentially dangerous to riders. There is limited information about how bucking behaviour should be investigated by veterinarians. The objectives of this article are to define bucking behaviour, to review the literature relating to bucking and allied behaviours in horses and describe personal observations and to describe an approach to clinical investigation and management strategies. A literature review from 2000 to 2020 was performed via search engines and additional free searches. A buck is an upward leap, usually in addition to forward propulsion, when either both hindlimbs or all four limbs are off the ground with the thoracolumbosacral region raised. Bucking often occurs as a series of such leaps and different manifestations include ‘pronking’, ‘bronking’ and ‘fly bucking’. Causes include excitement, exuberance, defensive behaviour associated with fear, learned behaviour through negative reinforcement or a reaction to musculoskeletal pain. Specific causes of pain include an ill‐fitting saddle or girth, thoracolumbar pain, girth region pain, sternal or rib injury, neuropathic pain, sacroiliac joint region pain, referred pain and primary hindlimb lameness. Any of these may be compounded by a rider who is fearful, poorly balanced or crooked. Determination of the underlying cause requires a comprehensive clinical assessment, including assessment of saddle fit for horse and rider and suitability of the horse–rider combination. In some horses, identification of a primary source of pain allows targeted treatment and resolution of pain, but careful retraining is crucial. An understanding of learning behaviour is required for successful rehabilitation. It was concluded that identification of the cause of bucking may enable treatment of primary pain which, when combined with retraining, results in management of bucking behaviour. However, in a minority of horses, dangerous bucking behaviour cannot be reliably resolved, requiring retirement or euthanasia of the horse.
Heterogeneous preferences, investment, and asset pricing
Authors: Liu Bo , Lu Lei , Mu Congming , Yang Jinqiang
Published: March 2021

We present a production‐based model in which agents have heterogeneous risk aversion and heterogeneous discount rate. Compared to the exchange economy, the aggregate consumption‐capital ratio and aggregate consumption volatility is reduced. The risk premium and the volatility of stock return increase when moving from the exchange economy to the production economy. We also find that the volatility of Tobin's q exhibits an inverted‐U‐shape and Tobin's q is procyclical.
Geological and climatic histories likely shaped the origins of terrestrial vertebrates endemic to the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: He Jiekun , Lin Siliang , Ding Chenchen , Yu Jiehua , Jiang Haisheng
Published: March 2021

Aim

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) hosts many endemic species, but questions regarding when and from where these species originated have not been comprehensively answered. Here, we provide a synthesis of the biogeographical history of terrestrial vertebrates endemic to the TP and investigate the potential drivers of their spatio‐temporal origins.

Location

Tibetan Plateau and its surrounding regions.

Time period

Cenozoic.

Major taxa studied

Terrestrial vertebrates.

Methods

We used dispersal–extinction–cladogenesis models based on time‐calibrated phylogenies to reconstruct the ancestral ranges of 174 endemic TP species and compiled the ancestral ranges and age estimates of their dispersal events. We generated a possibility map of source areas for endemic TP species by counting the incidence of non‐TP sister clades in 110 km × 110 km grid cells. We used generalized linear mixed models to assess the relative importance of historical processes and environmental factors in explaining the geographical variations in the source areas. We created subsets based on four vertebrate classes to test whether the dispersal events varied spatially and temporally among taxonomic groups.

Results

We found that the endemic species colonized the TP as early as 55 Ma, and that the main colonization phase started to increase around 15 Ma and peaked after 6 Ma. The major source areas of endemic TP species include the Hengduan Mountains, the Himalayas, and Central Asia. Elevation difference had the strongest effect on the source areas, followed by geographical distance. The spatio‐temporal origins of species endemic to the TP and the potential drivers showed significant differences among vertebrate classes.

Main conclusions

Our study supports the hypothesis that endemic TP species originated from various zoogeographical regions at different times and highlights the important roles of the TP uplift and past climatic changes for determining the spatio‐temporal origins of endemic TP species.
Abundance, distribution and substrate association of Hong Kong stag beetles (Coleoptera: Lucanidae) in secondary forests
Authors: Leung Tsz Kin Calvin , Bonebrake Timothy C.
Published: March 2021

Ecological studies conducted on lucanids in Asia are limited, resulting in considerable knowledge gaps in the fundamental ecology of these charismatic species (e.g. larval substrate associations), despite their potential importance in wood decomposition.

We conducted 25 transect surveys in secondary forest sites in Hong Kong and sampled wood parameters and site‐level wood availability data to test whether these habitat features significantly affected abundance or occurrence of lucanids.

Out of 412 wood fragments sampled, we found two species: Prosopocoilus oweni was broadly distributed across sites (but still uncommon at the level of wood fragments occurring in 6.07%) while Nigidius sinicus was comparatively rarer (occurring in 0.73% of examined wood fragments). The dominant species P. oweni was more likely to appear in wood fragments in later decay stages and can be classified as a secondary forest generalist with respect to wood resource utilisation. The surveys failed to detect four additional lucanid species known in Hong Kong (Neolucanus sinicus, E. gracilis, P. biplagiatus, and Aegus chelifer) potentially because of their rarity or usage of other habitats or microhabitats.

Protection of existing secondary forests in Hong Kong is recommended to secure supply of suitable habitat and resources. Results obtained by standardised surveys can furthermore serve as a baseline for future assessment of lucanid population change. This study provides ecological insights into lucanids within secondary forest ecosystems of subtropical and tropical Asia.
Two‐step ion‐exchanged soda lime silicate glass: Effect of surface compression on silver ion release
Authors: Talimian Ali , Nowicka Aleksandra , Kaňková Hana , Sani Gohar , Galusková Dagmar , Wondraczek Lothar , Galusek Dusan
Published: March 2021

Although glass plays an important role in medical facilities such as countertops or interfaces of medical equipment, where chemical and mechanical durability is of great concern, less attention has been paid to developing durable anti‐microbial surfaces. In the present work, silver‐containing surfaces were produced by ion exchange in soda‐lime silicate float glass, and the effects of residual surface compression produced by ion‐exchange on the release of silver ions were investigated. Silver‐doped surfaces were prepared by a sequential two‐stage ion‐exchange process in pure potassium nitrate, at 450°C for 4‐24 hours, and subsequently in KNO3+ 1 wt% AgNO3, at 400°C for 10‐30 minutes. Silver ions were found to penetrate 3‐5 µm into the glass surface, causing only a limited decrease in surface compression induced by potassium ions. The silver‐rich layer provides the required Ag+ leaching essential for anti‐microbial applications, as confirmed by Ag+ ion leaching tests. The silver release can be altered by surface compression.
Is earlier obesity associated with poorer executive functioning later in childhood? Findings from the Millennium Cohort Study
Authors: Creese Hanna‐Marie , Hope Steven , Christie Deborah , Goddings Anne‐Lise , Viner Russell
Published: March 2021

Background

Children affected with overweight or obesity have been associated with having lower educational achievement compared to peers who are non‐overweight/obese. One of the drivers of this association could be a link between obesity and poorer executive function. Evidence is limited to small, cross‐sectional studies which lack adjustment for important common causes.

Objective

We investigate the association between weight status and executive function longitudinally in mid‐childhood, accounting for potential common causes.

Methods

Linear regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between weight status between 5 and 7 years and executive functioning at 11 years in members of the Millennium Cohort Study (n = 7739), accounting for a wide range of potential common causes. Age‐ and sex‐specific International Obesity Taskforce cut‐points for body mass index (BMI) were used. Executive function, including decision‐making, impulsivity and spatial working memory, was assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery.

Results

There were no unadjusted associations between weight status and decision‐making or impulsivity. After adjustment for all potential common causes, there was a lack of consistent evidence to support an association between persistent obesity (including overweight) between 5 and 7 years and spatial working memory task at 11 years.

Conclusions

We found little evidence that poorer spatial working memory contributes to the association of children with obesity having lower educational achievement.
Assessing health disparities in foods and beverages served in early care and education programs across Georgia
Authors: Kear Kathryn , Stotz Sarah , Love Kim , Cox Ginnefer O. , Birch Leann L. , Cotwright Caree J.
Published: March 2021

Background

Obesity disproportionately impacts children who are Black and Hispanic, those who live in rural communities and those who have low income. Predisposition to obesity early in life is profoundly impacted by feeding habits during the preschool years. The early care and education (ECE) setting impacts children's health by providing daily meals.

Objective

The goal of this study was to identify whether or not health disparities in foods and beverages served in ECE programs in Georgia exist based on socioeconomic, demographic and geographic variables.

Methods

A random sample was drawn from 3054 ECE programs across the state of Georgia. The likelihood of serving specific foods and beverages in ECE programs in the previous day was measured. Percentages and frequencies, logistic regressions, Spearman's rho and Odds ratio tests determined outcomes.

Results

A total of 974 surveys were returned. Data were stratified based on the income level of the participant families, race of enrolled children and geographic location of the ECE program. Disparities existed between programs based on race of enrolled children and geographic location. For example, although the odds of providing sweets increased by 0.6% as the percentage of Black children enrolled increased, the provision of healthier foods, such as the odds of providing fruits (P = .001), vegetables (P = .001) and protein (P = .001) also increased. However, after results were adjusted for covariates findings did not remain significant.

Conclusions

Future research focused on evaluating the foods and beverages provided in ECE programs and the relationship of how income, race and location are related may provide further understanding about the disproportionate childhood obesity rates in America.
Italian Nurses’ experiences during the COVID‐19 pandemic: a qualitative analysis of internet posts
Authors: Fontanini Roberta , Visintini Erica , Rossettini Giacomo , Caruzzo Davide , Longhini Jessica , Palese Alvisa
Published: March 2021

Aim

To investigate the experience of Italian nurses during the first wave of the COVID‐19 outbreak by analysing professional social media posts.

Background

The COVID‐19 outbreak has overwhelmed health care institutions; as a consequence, nurses’ lives and psycho‐physical health have been affected.

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic forced nurses to work in physically and psychologically stressful conditions impacting on their life.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study. All narratives (texts and videos) posted by nurses from the 23rd of February 2020 to the 3rd of May (from the start of the outbreak to the end of the first lockdown) were analysed and published on the five most popular Italian professional social media platforms. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative research guidelines were followed.

Results

Five themes emerged from the 380 narratives explored: ‘Sharing what is happening within myself’; ‘Experiencing unprecedented working conditions’; ‘Experiencing a deep change’; ‘Failing to rehabilitate the image of nurses in society’; and ‘Do not abandon us’. Even though nurses appreciated the recognition of their communities, they still felt devalued and not recognized as professionals.

Discussion

Several psychological, physical, social and professional implications emerged from nurses working during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Despite being highly praised, nurses perceived they had failed in rehabilitating the image of nurses in society.

Conclusion

The experience of working during the COVID‐19 pandemic represented a traumatic event for nurses but it offered them personal and professional growth opportunities.

Implications for nursing practice, nursing policy and health policy

Supporting nurses’ mental health is highly recommended, together with a cultural investment on nurses’ role recognition, and a zero‐tolerance policy towards violence and aggression towards nurses.