bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the uncertainty of video‐based flow velocity and discharge measurements due to the conversion of field to image coordinates
Authors: Le Coz Jérôme , Renard Benjamin , Vansuyt Vincent , Jodeau Magali , Hauet Alexandre
Published: April 2021

Video‐based hydrometry continues to develop for contactless discharge measurements, automated flood gauging stations and the use of crowd‐sourced flood videos for discharge reconstruction. Irrespective of the velocimetry algorithm used (LSPIV, STIV, PTV…), orthorectification of the images is necessary beforehand, so that each pixel has the same known physical size. Most times, the orthorectification transformation is a plane‐to‐plane projection from the water surface to the camera sensor. Two approaches are typically used to compute the coefficients of this transformation: their calibration from ground reference points (GRPs) with known image and real‐world coordinates (“implicit calibration”) or their calculation from the values of the intrinsic (focal length, sensor size) and extrinsic (position, angles) parameters of the camera (“explicit calibration”). In this paper, we develop a Bayesian method which makes it possible to combine the implicit and explicit approaches in a probabilistic framework. The Bayesian approach can be used from situations suitable for the implicit approach (plenty of GRPs) to situations propitious to the explicit approach (well‐known camera parameters). The method is illustrated using synthetic views of a typical streamgauging scene with known true values of the parameters and GRP coordinates. We show that combining observational and prior information is generally beneficial to get precise estimates. Further tests carried out with a real scene of the Arc River at Randens, France, in flood conditions illustrate the impact of the number, uncertainty and spatial distribution of GRPs on the final uncertainty of flow velocity and discharge.
Effects of PMS50 supplementation on psychological symptoms of students with premenstrual syndrome
Authors: Sadeghi Fatemeh , Javid Ahmad Zare , Nazarinasab Masoumeh , Haghighi‐Zadeh Mohammad Hosein
Published: April 2021

Objective

To evaluate the effects of PMS50 supplementation on psychological symptoms in university students in Iran.

Methods

This double‐blind clinical trial was conducted at Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, between December 2018 and March 2019. Fifty female students with moderate to severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) randomly received either 550 mg/day of PMS50 (n = 25) or placebo (n = 25), starting from 1 week before till the end of menstruation for three consecutive menstrual cycles. Anthropometric indices, dietary intake, physical activity level, and severity of PMS were assessed at baseline and post‐intervention. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 22). Independent t test was used to compare the results between groups. Paired t test was used to compare the results within groups before and after study.

Results

There was a significant improvement in psychological symptoms including depression, anger, feeling of hopelessness, desire to be alone, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and poor concentration observed in the intervention group compared with the control group post‐intervention. Restlessness was significantly reduced in both groups post‐intervention. The mean scores of low self‐esteem, change in appetite, and food cravings were decreased in both groups, but not significant between groups.

Conclusion

PMS50 supplementation may be effective in improvement of psychological symptoms in PMS.

Clinical Trial Registration No.: IRCT20181218042038 N1.
Potential roles of Kruppel‐like factors in mediating adverse vascular effects of nanomaterials: A review
Authors: Cao Yi
Published: April 2021

The development of nanotechnology leads to the exposure of human beings to nanomaterials (NMs), and there is a health concern about the adverse vascular effects of NMs. Current data from epidemiology, controlled human exposure, and animal studies suggested that exposure to NMs could induce cardiopulmonary effects. In support of in vivo findings, in vitro studies showed that direct contact of vascular cells with NMs could induce endothelial cell (EC) activation and promote macrophage foam cell formation, although only limited studies showed that NMs could damage vascular smooth muscle cells and promote their phenotypic switch. It has been proposed that NMs induced adverse vascular effects via different mechanisms, but it is still necessary to understand the upstream events. Kruppel‐like factors (KLFs) are a set of C2H2 zinc finger transcription factors (TFs) that can regulate various aspects of vascular biology, but currently, the roles of KLF2 in mediating the adverse vascular effects of NMs have gained little attention by toxicologists. This review summarized current knowledge about the adverse vascular effects of NMs and proposed the potential roles of KLFs in mediating these effects based on available data from toxicological studies as well as the current understanding about KLFs in vascular biology. Finally, the challenges in investigating the role of KLFs in vascular toxicology were also summarized. Considering the important roles of KLFs in vascular biology, further studies are needed to understand the influence of NMs on KLFs and the downstream events.
Childhood emotional abuse and problematic social networking sites use in a sample of Italian adolescents: The mediating role of deficiencies in self‐other differentiation and uncertain reflective functioning
Authors: Musetti Alessandro , Starcevic Vladan , Boursier Valentina , Corsano Paola , Billieux Joël , Schimmenti Adriano
Published: April 2021

Objective

Childhood emotional abuse (CEA) is associated with various negative mental health outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the association between CEA and problematic social networking site (SNS) use in a sample of Italian adolescents.

Design

Using structural equation modeling, the study examined whether the relationship between CEA and problematic SNS use was sequentially mediated by self‐other differentiation and uncertain reflective functioning in 1308 Italian adolescents (628 males, age range 13–19 years).

Results

A history of CEA was positively associated with problematic SNS use. Furthermore, deficiencies in self‐other differentiation and uncertain reflective functioning partially mediated the relationship between CEA and problematic SNS use.

Conclusions

The present study provides additional insight into the psychological dynamics underpinning problematic SNS use among adolescents. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Economic evaluation of differentiated service delivery models for HIV treatment in Lesotho: costs to providers and patients
Authors: Nichols Brooke E , Cele Refiloe , Lekodeba Nkgomeleng , Tukei Betty , Ngorima‐Mabhena Nicoletta , Tiam Appolinaire , Maotoe Thapelo , Sejana Makatleho Veronica , Faturiyele Iyiola O , Chasela Charles , Rosen Sydney , Fatti Geoffrey
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Lesotho, the country with the second‐highest HIV/AIDS prevalence (23.6%) in the world, has made considerable progress towards achieving the “95‐95‐95” UNAIDS targets, but recent success in improving treatment access to all known HIV positive individuals has severely strained existing healthcare infrastructure, financial and human resources. Lesotho also faces the challenge of a largely rural population who incur a significant time and financial burden to visit healthcare facilities. Using data from a cluster‐randomized non‐inferiority trial conducted between August 2017 and July 2019, we evaluated costs to providers and costs to patients of community‐based differentiated models of multi‐month delivery of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Lesotho.

Methods

The trial of multi‐month dispensing compared 12‐month retention in care among three arms: conventional care, which required quarterly facility visits and ART dispensation (3MF); three‐month community adherence groups (CAGs) (3MC) and six‐month community ART distribution (6MCD). We first estimated the average total annual cost of providing HIV care and treatment followed by the total cost per patient retained 12 months after entry for each arm, using resource utilization data from the trial and local unit costs. We then estimated the average annual cost to patients in each arm with self‐reported questionnaire data.

Results

The average total annual cost of providing HIV care and treatment per patient was the highest in the 3MF arm ($122.28, standard deviation [SD] $23.91), followed by 3MC ($114.20, SD $23.03) and the 6MCD arm ($112.58, SD $21.44). Per patient retained in care, the average provider cost was $125.99 (SD $24.64) in the 3MF arm and 6% to 8% less for the other two arms ($118.38, SD $23.87 and $118.83, SD $22.63 for the 3MC and 6MCD respectively). There was a large reduction in patient costs for both differentiated service delivery arms: from $44.42 (SD $12.06) annually in the 3MF arm to $16.34 (SD $5.11) annually in the 3MC (63% reduction) and $18.77 (SD $8.31) annually in 6MCD arm (58% reduction).

Conclusions

Community‐based, multi‐month models of ART in Lesotho are likely to produce small cost savings to treatment providers and large savings to patients in Lesotho. Patient cost savings may support long‐term adherence and retention in care.
Approximate back‐projection method for improving lateral resolution in circular‐scanning‐based photoacoustic tomography
Authors: Wang Bo , Ye Tong , Wang Guan , Guo Lili , Xiao Jiaying
Published: April 2021

Purpose

In circular‐scanning‐based photoacoustic tomography (PAT), the effect of finite transducer aperture has not been effectively resolved. The goal of this paper is to propose a practical reconstruction method that accounts for the finite transducer aperture to improve the lateral resolution.

Methods

We for the first time propose to calculate the spatial‐temporal response (STR) of the employed finite‐sized transducer in a forward model, and then compensate the time delay and the directional sensitivity of the transducer in the framework of the back‐projection method. Both simulation and phantom experiments were carried out to evaluate the lateral resolution improvement with the proposed method. The performance of this new method for imaging complicated targets was also assessed by calculating the mean image gradient.

Results

Simulation results showed that with this new method the lateral resolution for off‐center targets can be as good as that for the center targets. Phantom experimental results showed that this new method can improve the lateral resolution more than two times for a point target about 5 mm far from the rotation center. Phantom experimental results also showed that many blurred fine structures of a piece of leaf veins at the off‐center regions were well restored with the new method, and the mean image gradient improved about 1.3 times.

Conclusion

The proposed new method can effectively account for the effect of finite transducer aperture for circular‐scanning‐based PAT in homogenous acoustic media. This new method also features its robustness and computational efficiency, so that it is a worthy replacement to the conventional back‐projection algorithm in circular‐scanning‐based PAT. This new method can be of great importance to the design of circular‐scanning or spherical‐scanning‐based PAT systems.
Toxicity and repellent activity of monoterpene enantiomers to rice weevils (Sitophilus oryzae)
Authors: A Fouad Hany , de Souza Tavares Wagner , C Zanuncio José
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

The rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (L., 1763) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is a stored grain/seed pest of several crops. Botanicals represent an option to manage this pest, especially those with high toxicity determined by its structure and physicochemical properties and low residue left behind on treated grains/seeds. Enantiomers are bioactive molecules in organic processes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the insecticidal activity of two enantiomeric forms of the monoterpenes citronellal, limonene, linalool, menthone and α‐pinene against S. oryzae adults through contact, fumigant and repellent assays.

RESULTS

All results were compared with absolute acetone as the negative control and those from contact assays also with malathion as the positive control. (S)‐(−)‐linalool was the most toxic by contact to S. oryzae and (S)‐(−)‐menthone through fumigation, while the two enantiomeric forms of menthone and α‐pinene were the best repellents.

CONCLUSIONS

The high toxicity of only one of the two monoterpene enantiomers showed the importance of form and percentage of enantiomer in the commercial product, which affect the success of the product to controlling S. oryzae. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Curcumin and cancer biology: Focusing regulatory effects in different signalling pathways
Authors: Bhatia Muskan , Bhalerao Mihir , Cruz‐Martins Natália , Kumar Dileep
Published: April 2021

Cancer is the second‐leading cause of death worldwide. Till date, many such effective treatments are available, for example chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy, but there are severe associated side effects, such as increased infection risk, constipation, hair loss, anaemia, among others. Thus, the need for effective therapeutic strategies and screening methodology arises. Researchers around the world are increasingly trying to discover anticancer therapies with as few side effects as possible and many are now focusing on phytochemicals, like curcumin. Curcumin is a bright yellow substance isolated from the plant rhizomes of Curcuma longa L. To this molecule a high therapeutic benefit has been underlined, being able to alter the development of cancer by different mechanisms, such as regulating multiple microRNA expression, modifying a series of signalling pathways, that is, Akt, Bcl‐2, PTEN, p53, Notch, and Erbb. Another major pathway that curcumin targets is the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) gene expression. In fact, MMPs are responsible for the degradation of the cell‐extracellular matrix, which can lead to the diseased condition and many different pathways contribute to its activity, such as JAK/STAT, NF‐κB, MAPK/ERK, COX‐2, ROS, TGF‐β, among others. In this review, we have attempted to describe the curcumin regulatory effect on different cell signalling pathways involved in the progression of different types of cancers.
Study on enhanced mechanical, barrier and optical properties of chemically modified mango kernel starch films
Authors: Vellaisamy Singaram Anantha Janani , Guruchandran Srisowmeya , Bakshi Argho , Muninathan Chakravarthy , Ganesan Nandhini Devi
Published: April 2021

The main aim of this study was to chemically modify mango kernel starch (MKS) and assess its impact on packaging film properties. MKS exhibited limited application due to low solubility, retrogradation, higher gelatinization temperature and hydrophilicity. These limitations could be effectually overcome by integrating modifications to native starch. Chemical modifications of MKS were performed by oxidation and benzylation with a low degree of substitution. X‐ray diffractogram presented A‐type pattern of crystal structure which was in accordance to endosperm starch. Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of the native and modified starch samples exhibited strong bands in the regions corresponding to OH and CH stretching. Additionally, absorption bands were found in the regions for carbonyl and aromatic phenyl vibrations signifying the substitution of functional groups within native starch. Modified starch films presented increased lightness L* representing that the films were lighter in colour than native film. Tensile strength (TS) of modified films was found to increase more than twice that of native starch film. Starch recrystallization was interrupted by oxidation thereby preventing retrogradation. Benzylation lowered the water vapour permeability by 58% and improved UV absorption by 80% when compared with native film.
An ultrafast and flexible liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry system paves the way for machine learning driven in vivo sample processing in early drug discovery
Authors: Häbe Tim T. , Späth Christian , Schrade Steffen , Jörg Wolfgang , Süssmuth Roderich D. , Bischoff Daniel , Luippold Andreas H.
Published: April 2021

Rationale

The low speed and low flexibility of most liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) approaches in early drug discovery delay sample analysis from routine in vivo studies within the same day. A high‐throughput platform for the rapid quantification of drug compounds in various in vivo assays was developed and established in routine bioanalysis.

Methods

Automated selection of an efficient and adequate LC method was realized by autonomous sample qualification for ultrafast batch gradients (9 s/sample) or for fast linear gradients (45 s/sample) if samples required chromatography. The hardware and software components of our Rapid and Integrated Analysis System (RIAS) were streamlined for increased analytical throughput via state‐of‐the‐art automation while maintaining high analytical quality.

Results

Online decision‐making was based on a quick assay suitability test (AST), based on a small and dedicated sample set evaluated by two different strategies. 84% of the acquired data points were within ±30% accuracy and 93% of the deviations between the lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) values were ≤2‐fold compared with standard LC/MS/MS systems. Speed, flexibility and overall automation significantly improved.

Conclusions

The developed platform provided an analysis time of only 10 min (batch‐mode) and 47 min (gradient‐mode) per standard pharmacokinetic (PK) study (62 injections). Automation, data evaluation and results handling were optimized to pave the way for machine learning based on decision‐making regarding the evaluation strategy of the AST.
PASCAL mitral valve repair system versus MitraClip: comparison of transcatheter edge-to-edge strategies in complex primary mitral regurgitation
Authors: Gerçek Muhammed , Roder Fabian , Rudolph Tanja K. , Fortmeier Vera , Zittermann Armin , Rudolph Volker , Friedrichs Kai P.
Published: April 2021

Background

The PASCAL system is a novel device for edge-to-edge treatment of mitral regurgitation (MR). The aim of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of the PASCAL to the MitraClip system in a highly selected group of patients with complex primary mitral regurgitation (PMR) defined as effective regurgitant orifice area (MR-EROA) ≥ 0.40 cm2, large flail gap (≥ 5 mm) or width (≥ 7 mm) or Barlow’s disease.

Methods

38 patients with complex PMR undergoing mitral intervention using PASCAL (n = 22) or MitraClip (n = 16) were enrolled. Primary efficacy endpoints were procedural success and degree of residual MR at discharge. The rate of major adverse events (MAE) according to the Mitral Valve Academic Consortium (MVARC) criteria was chosen as the primary safety endpoint.

Results

Patient collectives did not differ relevantly regarding pertinent baseline parameters. Patients` median age was 83.0 [77.5–85.3] years (PASCAL) and 82.5 [76.5–86.5] years (MitraClip). MR-EROA at baseline was 0.70 [0.68–0.83] cm2 (PASCAL) and 0.70 [0.50–0.90] cm2 (MitraClip), respectively. 3D-echocardiographic morphometry of the mitral valve apparatus revealed no relevant differences between groups. Procedural success was achieved in 95.5% (PASCAL) and 87.5% (MitraClip), respectively. In 86.4% of the patients a residual MR grade ≤ 1 + was achieved with PASCAL whereas reduction to MR grade ≤ 1 + with MitraClip was achieved in 62.5%. Neither procedure time number of implanted devices, nor transmitral gradient differed significantly. No periprocedural MAE according to MVARC occured.

Conclusion

In this highly selected patient group with complex PMR both systems exhibited equal procedural safety. MitraClip and PASCAL reduced qualitative and semi-quantitative parameters of MR to an at least comparable extent.

Graphic abstract
Recent progress understanding pathophysiology and genesis of brain AVM—a narrative review
Authors: Steiger Hans-Jakob
Published: April 2021

Considerable progress has been made over the past years to better understand the genetic nature and pathophysiology of brain AVM. For the actual review, a PubMed search was carried out regarding the embryology, inflammation, advanced imaging, and fluid dynamical modeling of brain AVM. Whole-genome sequencing clarified the genetic origin of sporadic and familial AVM to a large degree, although some open questions remain. Advanced MRI and DSA techniques allow for better segmentation of feeding arteries, nidus, and draining veins, as well as the deduction of hemodynamic parameters such as flow and pressure in the individual AVM compartments. Nonetheless, complete modeling of the intranidal flow structure by computed fluid dynamics (CFD) is not possible so far. Substantial progress has been made towards understanding the embryology of brain AVM. In contrast to arterial aneurysms, complete modeling of the intranidal flow and a thorough understanding of the mechanical properties of the AVM nidus are still lacking at the present time.
Machine translation systems and quality assessment: a systematic review
Authors: Rivera-Trigueros Irene
Published: April 2021

Nowadays, in the globalised context in which we find ourselves, language barriers can still be an obstacle to accessing information. On occasions, it is impossible to satisfy the demand for translation by relying only in human translators, therefore, tools such as Machine Translation (MT) are gaining popularity due to their potential to overcome this problem. Consequently, research in this field is constantly growing and new MT paradigms are emerging. In this paper, a systematic literature review has been carried out in order to identify what MT systems are currently most employed, their architecture, the quality assessment procedures applied to determine how they work, and which of these systems offer the best results. The study is focused on the specialised literature produced by translation experts, linguists, and specialists in related fields that include the English–Spanish language combination. Research findings show that neural MT is the predominant paradigm in the current MT scenario, being Google Translator the most used system. Moreover, most of the analysed works used one type of evaluation—either automatic or human—to assess machine translation and only 22% of the works combined these two types of evaluation. However, more than a half of the works included error classification and analysis, an essential aspect for identifying flaws and improving the performance of MT systems.
Geometric analysis of a two-body problem with quick loss of mass
Authors: Miao Zhouqian , Popović Nikola , Zacharis Thomas
Published: April 2021

We consider a two-body problem with quick loss of mass which was formulated by Verhulst (Verhulst in J Inst Math Appl 18: 87–98, 1976). The corresponding dynamical system is singularly perturbed due to the presence of a small parameter in the governing equations which corresponds to the reciprocal of the initial rate of loss of mass, resulting in a boundary layer in the asymptotics. Here, we showcase a geometric approach which allows us to derive asymptotic expansions for the solutions of that problem via a combination of geometric singular perturbation theory (Fenichel in J Differ Equ 31: 53–98, 1979) and the desingularization technique known as “blow-up” (Dumortier, in: Bifurcations and Periodic Orbits of Vector Fields, Springer, Dordrecht, 1993). In particular, we justify the unexpected dependence of those expansions on fractional powers of the singular perturbation parameter; moreover, we show that the occurrence of logarithmic (“switchback”) terms therein is due to a resonance phenomenon that arises in one of the coordinate charts after blow-up.
Durability of Cardiometabolic Outcomes Among Adolescents After Sleeve Gastrectomy: First Study with 9-Year Follow-up
Authors: Elhag Wahiba , El Ansari Walid
Published: April 2021

Background

Long-term durability of weight loss and comorbidity resolution beyond 7 years after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) among adolescents is completely lacking.

Methods

Retrospective review of adolescents aged ≤ 18 years who underwent primary LSG at our institution between 2011 and 2015 (N = 146). We assessed anthropometric and cardiometabolic outcomes at 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 years.

Results

Follow-up rates were 57.53%, 82.87%, 85.24%, 83.92%, and 83.33% at the five time points. The preoperative mean body mass index (BMI) (45.60 ± 6.50 kg/m2) decreased at year 1 (30.04 ± 4.96 kg/m2, P=0.001) and was maintained up to 9 years (30.20 ± 3.92 kg/m2, P = 0.001). Remission rates were triglycerides, 100% (11/11) at 5 years, and 100% (1/1) at 9 years; high density lipoprotein, 89.4% (17/19) at 5 years, and 100% (3/3) at 7 years; low density lipoprotein, 71.4% (11/14) and 100% (3/3) at 5 and 7 years; total cholesterol, 70% (7/10) at 5 years, and 100% (2/2) at 9 years; uric acid, 100% (3/3) at 5 years. Remission of liver enzymes was 84.6–100% (22/26–2/2) at 5–9 years. Prediabetes remission was 87.5% (14/16 and 7/8) at 5 and 7 years and 100% (3/3) at year 9. Type 2 diabetes complete remission was 50% (3/6, 1/2) at years 5 and 7, with all cases resolved at 9 years. The only case of hypertension completely resolved.

Conclusions

LSG achieved substantial weight loss and remission of cardiometabolic risk factors that were sustained on the long term. This is the first study among adolescents to assess such outcomes beyond 7 years.

Graphical abstract
Directional nature of Goodman–Kruskal gamma and some consequences: identity of Goodman–Kruskal gamma and Somers delta, and their connection to Jonckheere–Terpstra test statistic
Authors: Metsämuuronen Jari
Published: April 2021

Although usually taken as a symmetric measure, G is shown to be a directional coefficient of association. The direction in G is not related to rows or columns of the cross-table nor the identity of the variables to be a predictor or a criterion variable but, instead, to the number of categories in the scales. Under the conditions where there are no tied pairs in the dataset, G equals Somers’ D so directed that the variable with a wider scale (X) explains the response pattern in the variable with a narrower scale (g), that is, D(g│X). Hence, G = G(g│X) = D(g│X) but G ≠ D(X│g) and G ≠ D(symmetric). If there are tied pairs, the estimates by G = G(g│X) are more liberal in comparison with those by D(g│X). Algebraic relation of G and D with Jonckheere–Terpstra test statistic (JT) is derived. Because of the connection to JT, G = G(g│X) and D = D(g│X) indicate the proportion of logically ordered test-takers in the item after they are ordered by the score. It is strongly recommendable that gamma should not be used as a symmetric measure, and it should be used directionally only when willing to explain the behaviour of a variable with a narrower scale by the variable with a wider scale. This fits well with the measurement modelling settings.
Chronology and Eccentricity Phasing for the Early Turonian Greenhouse (∼93–94 Ma): Constraints on Astronomical Control of the Carbon Cycle
Authors: Laurin Jiří , Uličný David , Čech Stanislav , Trubač Jakub , Zachariáš Jiří , Svobodová Andrea
Published: April 2021

The Early Turonian interval represents a unique confluence of climatic and oceanographic conditions including peak surface temperatures, high greenhouse‐gas concentrations, and maximum Phanerozoic sea level. The susceptibility of this climate mode to astronomical insolation forcing remains poorly understood partly due to a limited time control and unknown phasing of astronomical cycles in this interval. Here, we offer a refined astrochronology of the Early Turonian based on laterally consistent precession signals preserved in offshore strata of the Bohemian Cretaceous Basin (central Europe). Pristine amplitude modulation verified through interference patterns in depth‐frequency plots provides a robust indication of ∼100 and 405‐kyr eccentricity phases (maxima and minima) that are pinned to ammonite biozones and new carbon‐isotope data from two cores. The Early Turonian is estimated as 885 ± 41 (2σ) thousand years (kyr) in duration, with the Cenomanian/Turonian boundary predating the first Turonian 405‐kyr maximum (no. 232 in the Geological Time Scale 2020) by 82 ± 70 (2σ) kyr. The results support a possible link of the recovery from Oceanic Anoxic Event II to increasing magnitude of seasonal insolation extremes due to rising eccentricity on 405‐kyr and million‐year (Myr) time scales. Superimposed upon this trend are small‐scale carbon‐isotope anomalies the pacing of which passes from ∼110 kyr, resembling short eccentricity, to ∼170 kyr, possibly related to obliquity modulation. This eccentricity‐to‐obliquity transition, paralleling the rising phase of Myr‐scale eccentricity, suggests decoupling of the carbon‐cycle perturbations from low‐latitude seasonal insolation. Mid‐latitude to high‐latitude carbon reservoirs became involved toward the Middle Turonian.
Anion–π interaction at the solid/water interfaces
Authors: Akamatsu Masaaki , Kimura Ayumi , Yamanaga Koji , Sakai Kenichi , Sakai Hideki
Published: April 2021

We evaluated the anion–π interactions between a naphthalenediimide unit and a negatively charged surface at the solid/water interface.
Observation of bottom-up formation for charged grain aggregates related to pre-planetary evolution beyond the bouncing barrier
Authors: Jungmann Felix , Wurm Gerhard
Published: April 2021

Context. Particles in protoplanetary disks go through a number of phases that are dominated by collisions. In each of these events, grains exchange electrical charge via triboelectric effects. This enhances the stability of particle aggregates.

Aims. Dielectric grains are easily charged by collisions. Here, we investigate whether a charge is capable of inducing an aggregation of particles and we consider how collision properties, such as sticking velocities and collisional cross-sections, are altered.

Methods. We explored aggregation in microgravity experiments based on the observation of the motion of submillimeter (submm) grains following many collisions. In the process, grains attract each other, collide, stick, and ultimately form small aggregates.

Results. We observed a bottom-up formation of irregular aggregates from submm grains. While some of the observed trajectories during the approach of grains reflect the presence of a pure Coulomb potential, the motion is not always in agreement with pure Kepler motion. Higher-order potentials of multipole charge distributions stand as a plausible explanation for this behavior. An immediate consequence of charging is that the particles continue to stick to each other at velocities of ~10 cm s−1, while surface forces of neutral grains are only expected to allow sticking below ~1 mm s−1. No bouncing collision was observed among hundreds of collisions in the given parameter range. Applied to early phases of planet formation, the forming aggregates are therefore the first steps in a new growth phase beyond the traditional bouncing barrier in planet formation.
Two-body model for the spatial distribution of dust ejected from an atmosphereless body
Authors: Ershova Anastasiia , Schmidt Jürgen
Published: April 2021

Aims. We present a model for the configuration of noninteracting material that is ejected in a continuous manner from an atmosphereless gravitating body for a given distribution of sources. The model is applicable to material on bound or unbound trajectories and to steady and nonsteady modes of ejection.

Methods. For a jet that is inclined to the surface normal, we related the distributions of ejection direction, velocity, and size to the phase-space number density at the distance from the source body. Integrating over velocity space, we obtained an expression from which we inferred the density, flux, or optical depth of the ejected material.

Results. As examples for the application of the code, we calculate profiles of the dust density in the Enceladus plume, the pattern of mass deposition rates around a plume on Europa, and images of optical depth following the nonstationary emission of material from a volcano on Io. We make the source code of a Fortran-95 implementation of the model freely available.
Castilla elastica (Mexican rubber tree).
Authors: Richard John
Published: April 2021

A datasheet on Castilla elastica covering, as an economically important tree, its taxonomy, importance, silviculture, distribution, biology and ecology, uses, products and pests.
Ficus benjamina (weeping fig).
Authors: Datiles Marianne Jennifer , Acevedo-Rodríguez Pedro
Published: April 2021

F. benjamina is a large strangling fig with an umbrella-shaped, graceful crown and few or no aerial roots. It is grown for ornamental purposes and is therefore found in many countries outside its natural range; it is often planted in villages and cemeteries. F. benjamina is an appropriate species for landscaping in urban areas and housing estates, and is planted along roadsides. In the past the bark was used to make rope. The figs are a source of food for birds and small mammals. F. benjamina is also a common pot-plant in temperate countries throughout the world and a number of cultivars have been developed.
Heliocarpus americanus (white moho).
Authors: Dixon Christopher J.
Published: April 2021

A datasheet on Heliocarpus americanus covering, as an economically important tree, its taxonomy, importance, silviculture, distribution, biology and ecology, uses, products and pests.
Phoenix canariensis (Canary Island date palm).
Authors: Pasiecznik Nick
Published: April 2021

A datasheet on Phoenix canariensis covering, as an economically important tree, its taxonomy, importance, silviculture, distribution, biology and ecology, uses, products and pests.
Psidium cattleianum (strawberry guava).
Authors: Rojas-Sandova Julissa , Pasieczni Nick
Published: April 2021

Stand establishment using: natural regeneration, planting stock. Vegetative propagation by: cuttings, grafting.
NeuroPred-FRL: an interpretable prediction model for identifying neuropeptide using feature representation learning
Authors: Hasan Md Mehedi , Alam Md Ashad , Shoombuatong Watshara , Deng Hong-Wen , Manavalan Balachandran , Kurata Hiroyuki
Published: April 2021

Neuropeptides (NPs) are the most versatile neurotransmitters in the immune systems that regulate various central anxious hormones. An efficient and effective bioinformatics tool for rapid and accurate large-scale identification of NPs is critical in immunoinformatics, which is indispensable for basic research and drug development. Although a few NP prediction tools have been developed, it is mandatory to improve their NPs’ prediction performances. In this study, we have developed a machine learning-based meta-predictor called NeuroPred-FRL by employing the feature representation learning approach. First, we generated 66 optimal baseline models by employing 11 different encodings, six different classifiers and a two-step feature selection approach. The predicted probability scores of NPs based on the 66 baseline models were combined to be deemed as the input feature vector. Second, in order to enhance the feature representation ability, we applied the two-step feature selection approach to optimize the 66-D probability feature vector and then inputted the optimal one into a random forest classifier for the final meta-model (NeuroPred-FRL) construction. Benchmarking experiments based on both cross-validation and independent tests indicate that the NeuroPred-FRL achieves a superior prediction performance of NPs compared with the other state-of-the-art predictors. We believe that the proposed NeuroPred-FRL can serve as a powerful tool for large-scale identification of NPs, facilitating the characterization of their functional mechanisms and expediting their applications in clinical therapy. Moreover, we interpreted some model mechanisms of NeuroPred-FRL by leveraging the robust SHapley Additive exPlanation algorithm.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Outbreaks at 2 Construction Sites—New York City, October–November 2020
Authors: Bushman Dena , Sekaran Jency , Jeffery Nancy , Rath Caroline , Ackelsberg Joel , Weiss Don , Wu Winfred , Van Oss Katherine , Johnston Kolthida , Huang Jamie , Khatun Umaima , Sheikh Tara , Sutcliff Jennie , Tsoi Benjamin
Published: April 2021

During 23 October–16 November 2020, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene investigated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreaks at 2 construction sites. Challenges in adhering to the New York State Department of Health “Interim COVID-19 Guidance for Construction” were reported. To minimize outbreaks, jurisdictions should increase tailored outreach to the construction industry, emphasizing infection prevention.
Knowledge co-construction in professional reading group discussions
Authors: Lee Kent K , Abbott Marilyn L
Published: April 2021

As part of our longitudinal study of TESOL instructors’ engagement with peer-reviewed journal articles in professional reading groups, we examined the processes involved in knowledge co-construction in three group discussions. Audio-recordings of the discussions were analysed using process coding to identify the quality and quantity of the group members’ (n = 18) contributions and the processes of knowledge co-construction. Findings revealed that the group members’ contributions were characterized by 16 different language functions. The most commonly used functions, agreeing, elaborating and sharing experiences, strengthened group rapport and promoted a positive learning environment. All 16 language functions contributed to the processes of introducing, developing, crystallizing, combining, and creating knowledge that stimulated innovative evidence-informed practices. An awareness of the processes of knowledge-co-construction and their potential to address professional learning and development needs may encourage teachers to engage in autonomous reading groups and support them in the creation of innovative next practices.
Sterol uptake analysis in Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces wine yeast species
Authors: Tesnière Catherine , Pradal Martine , Legras Jean-Luc
Published: April 2021

Sterols are essential components of the yeast membrane and their synthesis requires oxygen. Yet, Saccharomyces cerevisiae has developed the ability to take up sterols from the medium under anaerobiosis. Here we investigated sterol uptake efficiency and the expression of genes related to sterol import in Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces wine yeast species fermenting under anaerobic conditions. The sterol uptake efficiency of 39 strains was evaluated by flow cytometry (with 25-NBD Cholesterol, a fluorescent cholesterol probe introduced in the medium) and we found an important discrepancy between Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces wine yeast species that we correlated to a lower final cell population and a lower fermentation rate. A high uptake of sterol was observed in the various Saccharomyces strains. Spot tests performed on 13 of these strains confirmed the differences between Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces strains, suggesting that the presence of the sterol uptake transporters AUS1 and PDR11 could cause these discrepancies. Indeed, we could not find any homologue to these genes in the genome of Hanseniaspora uvarum, H. guillermondii, Lachancea thermotolerans, Torulaspora delbreueckii, Metschnikowia pulcherrima, or Starmarella bacillaris species. The specialization of sterol import function for post genome-duplication species may have favored growth under anaerobiosis.
Active and inactive transplacement of the M26 recombination hotspot in Schizosaccharomyces pombe.
Authors: Virgin J B , Metzger J , Smith G R
Published: April 2021

The ade6-M26 mutation of the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe creates a meiotic recombination hotspot that elevates ade6 intragenic recombination approximately 10-15-fold. A heptanucleotide sequence including the M26 point mutation is required but not sufficient for hotspot activity. We studied the effects of plasmid and chromosomal context on M26 hotspot activity. The M26 hotspot was inactive on a multicopy plasmid containing M26 embedded within 3.0 or 5.9 kb of ade6 DNA. Random S. pombe genomic fragments totaling approximately 7 Mb did not activate the M26 hotspot on a plasmid. M26 hotspot activity was maintained when 3.0-, 4.4-, and 5.9-kb ade6-M26 DNA fragments, with various amounts of non-S. pombe plasmid DNA, were integrated at the ura4 chromosomal locus, but only in certain configurations relative to the ura4 gene and the cointegrated plasmid DNA. Several integrations created new M26-independent recombination hotspots. In all cases the non-ade6 DNA was located > 1 kb from the M26 site, and in some cases > 2 kb. Because the chromosomal context effect was transmitted over large distances, and did not appear to be mediated by a single discrete DNA sequence element, we infer that the local chromatin structure has a pronounced effect on M26 hotspot activity.
Genetic Analysis Demonstrates a Direct Link Between Rho Signaling and Nonmuscle Myosin Function During Drosophila Morphogenesis
Authors: Halsell Susan R , Chu Benjamin I , Kiehart Daniel P
Published: April 2021

A dynamic actomyosin cytoskeleton drives many morphogenetic events. Conventional nonmuscle myosin-II (myosin) is a key chemomechanical motor that drives contraction of the actin cytoskeleton. We have explored the regulation of myosin activity by performing genetic screens to identify gene products that collaborate with myosin during Drosophila morphogenesis. Specifically, we screened for second-site noncomplementors of a mutation in the zipper gene that encodes the nonmuscle myosin-II heavy chain. We determined that a single missense mutation in the zipperEbr allele gives rise to its sensitivity to second-site noncomplementation. We then identify the Rho signal transduction pathway as necessary for proper myosin function. First we show that a lethal P-element insertion interacts genetically with zipper. Subsequently we show that this second-site noncomplementing mutation disrupts the RhoGEF2 locus. Next, we show that two EMS-induced mutations, previously shown to interact genetically with zipperEbr, disrupt the RhoA locus. Further, we have identified their molecular lesions and determined that disruption of the carboxyl-terminal CaaX box gives rise to their mutant phenotype. Finally, we show that RhoA mutations themselves can be utilized in genetic screens. Biochemical and cell culture analyses suggest that Rho signal transduction regulates the activity of myosin. Our studies provide direct genetic proof of the biological relevance of regulation of myosin by Rho signal transduction in an intact metazoan.
Maternal-Zygotic Gene Conflict Over Sex Determination: Effects of Inbreeding
Authors: Werren John H , Hatcher Melanie J
Published: April 2021

There is growing evidence that sex determination in a wide range of organisms is determined by interactions between maternal-effect genes and zygotically expressing genes. Maternal-effect genes typically produce products (e.g., mRNA or proteins) that are placed into the egg during oogenesis and therefore depend upon maternal genotype. Here it is shown that maternal-effect and zygotic genes are subject to conflicting selective pressures over sex determination in species with partial inbreeding or subdivided populations. The optimal sex ratios for maternal-effect genes and zygotically expressing genes are derived for two models: partial inbreeding (sibmating) and subdivided populations with local mating in temporary demes (local mate competition). In both cases, maternal-effect genes are selected to bias sex determination more toward females than are zygotically expressed genes. By investigating the invasion criteria for zygotic genes in a population producing the maternal optimum (and vice versa), it is shown that genetic conflict occurs between these genes. Even relatively low levels of inbreeding or subdivision can result in maternalzygotic gene conflict over sex determination. The generality of maternal-zygotic gene conflict to sex determination evolution is discussed; such conflict should be considered in genetic studies of sex-determining mechanisms.
The fitness costs and benefits of trisomy of each Candida albicans chromosome
Authors: Yang Feng , Todd Robert T , Selmecki Anna , Jiang Yuan-ying , Cao Yong-bing , Berman Judith
Published: April 2021

Candida albicans is a prevalent human fungal pathogen. Rapid genomic change, due to aneuploidy, is a common mechanism that facilitates survival from multiple types of stresses including the few classes of available antifungal drugs. The stress survival of aneuploids occurs despite the fitness costs attributed to most aneuploids growing under idealized lab conditions. Systematic study of the aneuploid state in C. albicans has been hindered by the lack of a comprehensive collection of aneuploid strains. Here, we describe a collection of diploid C. albicans aneuploid strains, each carrying one extra copy of each chromosome, all from the same genetic background. We tested the fitness of this collection under several physiological conditions including shifts in pH, low glucose, oxidative stress, temperature, high osmolarity, membrane stress, and cell wall stress. We found that most aneuploids, under most conditions, were less fit than their euploid parent, yet there were specific conditions under which specific aneuploid isolates provided a fitness benefit relative to the euploid parent strain. Importantly, this fitness benefit was attributable to the change in the copy number of specific chromosomes. Thus, C. albicans can tolerate aneuploidy of each chromosome and some aneuploids confer improved growth under conditions that the yeast encounters in its host niches.
Prediction of patient disposition: comparison of computer and human approaches and a proposed synthesis
Authors: Barak-Corren Yuval , Agarwal Isha , Michelson Kenneth A , Lyons Todd W , Neuman Mark I , Lipsett Susan C , Kimia Amir A , Eisenberg Matthew A , Capraro Andrew J , Levy Jason A , Hudgins Joel D , Reis Ben Y , Fine Andrew M
Published: April 2021

Objective

To compare the accuracy of computer versus physician predictions of hospitalization and to explore the potential synergies of hybrid physician–computer models.

Materials and Methods

A single-center prospective observational study in a tertiary pediatric hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, United States. Nine emergency department (ED) attending physicians participated in the study. Physicians predicted the likelihood of admission for patients in the ED whose hospitalization disposition had not yet been decided. In parallel, a random-forest computer model was developed to predict hospitalizations from the ED, based on data available within the first hour of the ED encounter. The model was tested on the same cohort of patients evaluated by the participating physicians.

Results

198 pediatric patients were considered for inclusion. Six patients were excluded due to incomplete or erroneous physician forms. Of the 192 included patients, 54 (28%) were admitted and 138 (72%) were discharged. The positive predictive value for the prediction of admission was 66% for the clinicians, 73% for the computer model, and 86% for a hybrid model combining the two. To predict admission, physicians relied more heavily on the clinical appearance of the patient, while the computer model relied more heavily on technical data-driven features, such as the rate of prior admissions or distance traveled to hospital.

Discussion

Computer-generated predictions of patient disposition were more accurate than clinician-generated predictions. A hybrid prediction model improved accuracy over both individual predictions, highlighting the complementary and synergistic effects of both approaches.

Conclusion

The integration of computer and clinician predictions can yield improved predictive performance.