bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Forecasting potato tuber yield using a soil electromagnetic induction method
Authors: Farooque Aitazaz A. , Zare Mahnaz , Abbas Farhat , Bos Melanie , Esau Travis , Zaman Qamar 
Published: December 2019

AbstractTimely forecasting of crop yield is vital for precision agriculture management practices. This study used on‐the‐go proximal soil sensing using electromagnetic induction (EMI) readings of apparent ground electrical conductivity (ECa) to map ECa and forecast potato tuber yield in four fields across Atlantic Canada. The ECa data, measured in the horizontal co‐planar (HCP) configuration mode of the DualEM‐2 instrument, were segmented to the top 0.30‐m thickness of the soil layer using a standard method to compare mapping/prediction accuracy. Results showed that ECa correlated well (R2= 0.81–0.90) with a 1:5 soil‐to‐water ratio solution's electrical conductivity (EC1:5). The actual tuber yield, which moderately varied (CV = 18.9–27.5%) across the fields and significantly correlated with ECa, explained more than 55% of the yield variability (R2= 0.57–0.66). The forecasted tuber yield calculated from cubic regression models of the actual tuber yield versus ECa was non‐significantly different from the actual tuber yield (RMSE = 12.2–18.3%; R2= 0.57–0.66). Interpolated maps of the predicted and the actual yields, and their correlation analyses, showed similar trends of variations within the study fields (r= 0.69–0.80). The higher values of cation exchange capacity, calcium, phosphate, potash, organic matter and soil moisture content in the New Brunswick soils compared to the Prince Edward Island soils resulted in an overestimation of the predicted tuber yield than the actual yield at the lower ECa values, and an underestimation of the predicted tuber yield at higher ECa values for New Brunswick. The results revealed that the province‐based calibrations produced more accurate predictions when compared with the single calibration by combining all of the data from New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. The non‐destructive prediction of potato tuber yield can enable the development of precision agricultural techniques and management practices for yield forecasting, in addition to making informed decisions for enhanced potato productivity.HighlightsPotato cropping is highly important to the economy of Atlantic Canada.The DualEM‐2 sensor was used to forecast and map tuber yield to advance crop management.The tuber yields significantly correlated with ground conductivity that explained >55% of variability in yield.The DualEM‐2 sensor can accurately predict potato yield under agricultural conditions similar to Atlantic Canada.
The 2019 Potato Wart Disease workshop: shared needs and future research directions
Authors: van de Vossenberg B. T. L. H. , van der Lee T. A. J. , Nguyen H. D. T. 
Published: December 2019

Potato wart disease is caused by the fungus Synchytrium endobioticum. A workshop on this disease was held in June 2019 at the Dutch National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO‐NL) in Wageningen, the Netherlands. Over 60 participants from 20 countries and 36 organizations came together to share their knowledge via presentations and posters, to strengthen professional networks, and to identify shared needs and future directions for S. endobioticum research. The three major topics of the workshop were disease occurrence and management, understanding the pathogen, and host breeding and resistance. Many aspects of this disease were discussed and summarized in a shared statement. Future directions identified were (1) research initiatives are currently being initiated to develop standardized molecular viability tests and a molecular pathotyping test, (2) coordination is needed to come up with better standardization of the pathotyping bioassays and the set of differential cultivars described in EPPO PM 7/28 needs to be better available for testing, and (3) stacking of resistance genes is strongly recommended but resistance breeding alone is not enough and should be combined with other management strategies to contain potato wart disease. Furthermore, the attendees remarked that organizing a workshop every 2 or 3 years would be of great benefit to the potato wart disease research community.
Leishmania aethiopica cell‐to‐cell spreading involves caspase‐3, AkT, and NF‐κB but not PKC‐δ activation and involves uptake of LAMP‐1‐positive bodies containing parasites
Authors: Ranatunga Medhavi , Rai Rajeev , Richardson Simon C. W. , Dyer Paul , Harbige Laurence , Deacon Andrew , Pecorino Lauren , Getti Giulia T. M. 
Published: December 2019

Development of human leishmaniasis is dependent on the ability of intracellular Leishmania parasites to spread and enter macrophages. The mechanism through which free promastigotes and amastigotes bind and enter host macrophages has been previously investigated; however, little is known about intracellular trafficking and cell‐to‐cell spreading. In this study, the mechanism involved in the spreading of Leishmania aethiopica and Leishmania mexicana was investigated. A significant increase in phosphatidylserine (PS) exhibition, cytochrome C release, and active caspase‐3 expression was detected (P < 0.05) during L. aethiopica, but not L. mexicana spreading. A decrease (P < 0.05) of protein kinase B (Akt) protein and BCL2‐associated agonist of cell death (BAD) phosphorylation was also observed. The nuclear factor kappa‐light‐chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF‐kB) signaling pathway and pro‐apoptotic protein protein kinase C delta (PKC‐δ) were downregulated while inhibition of caspase‐3 activation prevented L. aethiopica spreading. Overall suggesting that L. aethiopica induces host cell’s apoptosis during spreading in a caspase‐3‐dependent manner. The trafficking of amastigotes within macrophages following cell‐to‐cell spreading differed from that of axenic parasites and involved co‐localization with lysosomal‐associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP‐1) within 10 min postinfection. Interestingly, following infection with axenic amastigotes and promastigotes, co‐localization of parasites with LAMP‐1‐positive structures took place at 1 and 4 h, respectively, suggesting that the membrane coat and LAMP‐1 protein were derived from the donor cell. Collectively, these findings indicate that host cell apoptosis, demonstrated by PS exhibition, caspase‐3 activation, cytochrome C release, downregulation of Akt, BAD phosphorylation, NF‐kB activation, and independent of PKC‐δ expression, is involved in L. aethiopica spreading. Moreover, L. aethiopica parasites associate with LAMP‐rich structures when taken up by neighboring macrophages.
Factors associated with preferences for elderly care mode and choice of caregivers among parents who lost their only child in a central China city
Authors: Rong Chao , Wan Duo , Xu Cai‐Ming , Xiao Lu‐Wei , Shen Shu‐Hua , Lin Jin‐Min 
Published: December 2019

AimIt is forecasted that the figure of families in China who lost their only child will reach 10 million by 2035. Traditional Chinese culture places these families in a particularly disadvantaged position for elderly care. It is quite important to understand the elderly care needs of the parents.MethodsThe cluster sampling method was used to select the parents who lost their only child in Wuhu city, China. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis models were carried out to analyze factors influencing the parents’ preferences for elderly care mode and choice of caregivers.ResultsThe Geriatric Depression Scale score (P < 0.001) was significantly associated with the parents’ preferences for elderly care mode. Parents with different sex, marital status and grandchildren status had different preferences for their choice of caregivers. The number of chronic diseases and Geriatric Depression Scale scores were significantly associated with preferences for choice of caregivers.ConclusionsThese parents should have a preferential policy of check in to a nursing home and simplify the check‐in procedure. The parents should receive prompt for depression and stay in the community for elderly care. The government should guarantee that spouseless parents have priority in enjoying nurse/nursing home worker services. The government should support the development of volunteer services. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 112–117.
Japanese older adults’ loneliness, family relationships and mortality: Does one's living arrangement make a difference?
Authors: Takagi Emiko , Saito Yasuhiko 
Published: December 2019

AimThis study examines how the association between older adults’ family relationships and all‐cause mortality differs among different household contexts: living alone, living with only a spouse and living with adult children.MethodsWe carried out a discrete‐time event history analysis on all‐cause mortality with measures of family relationships for each group of older adults. The study analyzed person‐wave data from the Nihon University Japanese Longitudinal Study of Aging, including 11 225 longitudinal episodes between consecutive waves and 555 deaths reported in total.ResultsThe family relationship measures were significantly associated with mortality only for older adults who resided with children. While providing support to children was negatively related to mortality, receiving support from children was positively associated with mortality. Feelings of loneliness were associated with higher mortality for older adults in intergenerational coresidence arrangements, but not for those in other living arrangements.ConclusionThe extent of support exchange between older adults and adult children tends to be associated with older adults’ mortality only within the household context where parents and children live together. In other types of living arrangements (i.e. living alone and living with only a spouse), the association between family relationship measures and mortality is limited. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; ••: ••–••. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2020; 20: 156–160.
Hydraulic‐Head Formulation for Density‐Dependent Flow and Transport
Authors: Langevin Christian D. , Panday Sorab , Provost Alden M. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractDensity‐dependent flow and transport solutions for coastal saltwater intrusion investigations, analyses of fluid injection into deep brines, and studies of convective fingering and instabilities of denser fluids moving through less dense fluids typically formulate the groundwater flow equation in terms of pressure or equivalent freshwater head. A formulation of the flow equation in terms of hydraulic head is presented here as an alternative. The hydraulic‐head formulation can facilitate adaptation of existing constant‐density groundwater flow codes to include density‐driven flow by avoiding the need to convert between freshwater head and hydraulic head within the code and by incorporating density‐dependent terms as a compartmentalized “correction” to constant‐density calculations already performed by the code. The hydraulic‐head formulation also accommodates complexities such as unconfined groundwater flow and Newton‐Raphson solution schemes more readily than the freshwater‐head formulation. Simulation results are presented for four example problems solved using an implementation of the hydraulic‐head formulation in MODFLOW.
Low serum leptin levels are associated with malnutrition status according to malnutrition‐inflammation score in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis
Authors: Ko Yen‐Ting , Lin Yu‐Li , Kuo Chiu‐Huang , Lai Yu‐Hsien , Wang Chih‐Hsien , Hsu Bang‐Gee 
Published: December 2019

AbstractIntroduction: Leptin is an adipokine secreted from adipocytes that mediate lipid metabolism and inflammation. This cross‐sectional study investigated the relationship between serum leptin level and nutrition status evaluated by malnutrition‐inflammation score (MIS) among patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD).Methods: This study included 100 patients on HD. Nutritional status was based on MIS (malnutrition ≥7 points). Body composition, biochemistry data, and serum leptin level were evaluated.Findings: Of 100 subjects, 33 (33.0%) were categorized as having malnutrition. Compared with subjects in the well‐nourished group, those in the malnutrition group had on average an older age, longer HD duration, and lower height, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, body fat mass, serum triglyceride level, and creatinine level. Serum leptin levels were also significantly lower in the malnutrition group (P < 0.001), whereas C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels were higher (P = 0.002). Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that HD duration (β = 2.06, P = 0.009), serum leptin level (β = −5.16, P < 0.001), CRP level (β = 3.33, P < 0.001), and albumin level (β = −1.95, P = 0.008) were factors independently associated with MIS. The discriminative power of serum leptin level to predict malnutrition was 0.834 (95% confidence interval: 0.747‐0.901, P < 0.001).Discussion: Low serum leptin level was associated with malnutrition, and serum leptin level may be a valuable marker for nutrition assessment in patients undergoing HD.
Preparation and performance characterization of ceramic/silver nanoparticle composite in water purification
Authors: Mukaratirwa‐Muchanyereyi Netai , Tigere Washington , Hokonya Nicodimus , Gusha Cecilia , Guyo Upenyu , Nyoni Stephen 
Published: December 2019

AbstractClean water is expensive to obtain, hence the need for cheaper and effective ways of treating water. This study investigated the preparation and application/performance of affordable and effective ceramic/silver nanocomposites in the purification of water. Ceramic filters were manufactured by combining clay, flour, and broken clay pots on a weight basis. The dry mix was combined with deionized water, molded, fired, and treated with either silver nanoparticles or silver nitrate solution. Both treatments were done by submerging disks in their respective solutions. Analysis of treated water has shown that the pH of raw water was reduced by 1.08% with clay only filter, 5.20% with silver nitrate/clay filter, and finally 12% with silver nanoparticle/clay composite. Hardness decreased by 67% with nanoparticle composite while water from clay had 0.08% decrease in hardness. Biological oxygen demand fell by 50% with the clay only filter while there was 100% decrease with clay/silver composites. Nitrates decreased with clay only filters by 21.5% but increased in water treated with silver nitrate composite (84%) and clay/silver nanoparticle composite (73%). Inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy was used to estimate silver leaching from disks embedded with silver nitrate (0.024 ± 0.002mg/L) and silver nanoparticles (0.013 ± 0.002 mg/L) using 0.001 M dosage. All parameters investigated were dose‐dependent.
m6A facilitates YTHDF‐independent phase separation
Authors: Liu Si‐Yu , Feng Yi , Wu Jun-Jie , Zou Ming-Li , Sun Zi-Li , Li Xia , Yuan Feng‐Lai 
Published: December 2019

AbstractN6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most abundant messenger RNA (mRNA) modifications in eukaryotes and is involved in various key processes of RNA metabolism. In this issue of Nature, Ries et al (2019) described the fundamental features of m6A modification of mRNAs in regulating the composition of the phase‐separated transcriptome on the basis of number and distribution, and provide strong evidence that m6A plays a role in regulating phase separation in cells.
Consortium Building for Nurse Scientists Interested in Symptoms Research in the Era of Precision Health
Authors: Hsiao Chao‐Pin , Dickinson Kristin , Gonzalez‐Mercado Velda , Kelly Debra Lynch , Lukkahatai Nada , McCabe Margaret , Mayo Samantha , Musanti Rita , Saligan Leorey N. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractPurposeThis article aims to provide perspectives on the establishment of a consortium for nurse scientists with similar career trajectories interested in cancer‐related symptoms (CRS) research. Hereby, we describe the development of and recent outcomes from the CRS consortium, the lessons learned in establishing the consortium, and future directions to advance the science of CRS.Model and MethodsNew and innovative strategies are needed to address the complexity of CRS research. A CRS consortium was created to allow a mechanism for oncology nurse scientists with varying expertise to collaborate to advance CRS research. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Symptom Science Model (SSM) guides the research of the CRS Consortium.Discussion and ConclusionsA need for improved CRS assessment and management has been identified. The CRS consortium was created as a collaborative think tank to begin to address this need. Guided by the NIH SSM, CRS consortium members have worked to define symptom phenotypes, enhance understanding of the biologic mechanisms that can contribute to symptom phenotypes, and develop tailored interventions to improve symptom management. Dissemination of the CRS consortium efforts involve publications and presentations.Clinical ImplicationsNurse scientists interested in symptom science and biobehavorial research face many challenges on how to initiate and sustain independent programs of research. Through the formation of a CRS consortium, oncology nurse scientists can work together to address identified issues in symptom measurement and management.
Condemned and Condoned: Polygynous Marriage in Christian Africa
Authors: Agadjanian Victor 
Published: December 2019

AbstractObjectiveThis study contributes to a better understanding of the role of Christianity in the persistence of polygyny in sub‐Saharan Africa.BackgroundMarital systems and practices are closely connected to religious norms, but these connections are often complex and contradictory. Polygynous marriage remains widespread in sub‐Saharan Africa, including its heavily Christianized parts, where public opposition to it should be strongest.MethodsThe study analyzes a rich combination of quantitative and qualitative data from a predominantly Christian district in Mozambique. The data include a household‐based survey, a census of the district's religious congregations, and focus group discussions and individual interviews with leaders and rank‐and‐file members of various churches.ResultsThe multivariate statistical tests point to instructive denominational differences in the prevalence and acceptance of polygyny, with the starkest contrast being between two types of African Initiated Churches—one that is more lenient on pre‐Christian practices and the other that is vehemently opposed to them. These tests also show a contrast between church leaders and rank‐and‐file members, the latter being generally more accepting of polygyny, and illustrate variations in acceptability of polygyny across different church membership scenarios. The analysis of the qualitative data complements the statistical tests by highlighting ideological and social mechanisms through which polygynous marriage is both rejected and legitimized in Christian communities.ConclusionBoth condemnation and toleration of polygyny by Christian churches reflect the complexities of the transformation of sub‐Saharan marital systems and of the role that religion plays in that process.
Supporting People with Intellectual Disability Who Have Experienced Abuse: Clinical Psychologists' Perspectives
Authors: O'Malley Grace , Irwin Lynn , Guerin Suzanne 
Published: December 2019

AbstractWhile sexual and other forms of abuse constitute significant problems with people with intellectual disability (ID), there is limited evidence to guide psychologists working with this population. The research involved a qualitative, interview‐based study of six clinical psychologists' views on supporting people with ID who experienced abuse. Four topics relating to service provision were explored using thematic analysis (Braun & Clark, 2006). Five overarching themes were identified. These were (1) therapeutic adaptations and creativity, (2) invalidation and exclusion, (3) too many “catch all” approaches, (4) absence of supports, and (5) mixed attitudes in approaching abuse. In the absence of a sufficient evidence base, there is great variance in therapeutic supports offered to individuals with an abuse history. A number of issues, such as the importance of supervision, the potential for acquiescence, and the need for greater definition of the role of psychologists and staff are discussed.
Seasonal histology and ultrastructure of the urogenital system in two sympatric lizards
Authors: Rheubert J. , Pasternak M. A. , Ely M. , Siegel D. S. , Trauth S. E. , Gribbins K. M. , Sever D. M. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe urogenital system of male squamates consists of the testis, testicular ducts, and sexual segment of the kidney. These structures undergo seasonal variation, and their morphology is variable across taxa. Despite multiple studies examining the morphology of the various components of the reproductive system, few studies have examined squamates in sympatry. The purpose of this study was to investigate the morphology and seasonal variation of the reproductive system in two taxa that are sympatric with one another, Anolis carolinensis and Sceloporus undulatus, from southeastern Louisiana. Specimens were collected monthly for an entire year and processed for histological and ultrastructural analysis. Both species have a single rete testis leading from the testis to the ductuli efferentes, which leads into the proximal portion of the epididymis. The rete testis consists of a simple squamous epithelium with irregularly shaped nuclei, the ductuli efferentes consists of a ciliated simple cuboidal epithelium, and the epididymis a pseudostratified columnar epithelium. No differences were observed in the morphology of the urogenital systems between taxa but phenological variation was observed in terms of the tissue development for reproduction. Anolis carolinensis has an extended active period and two separated periods of maximal activity evidenced by two peaks in the ductuli efferentes epithelial height and tubular diameter (March and July) whereas Sceloporus undulatus only had a single peak occurring in June. These results suggest that reproductive morphology may be conserved at taxonomic levels above family level, and reproductive activity may be constrained phylogenetically and is not solely dependent on environmental factors, at least in terms of geographic range, though it is acknowledged that microhabitats may play a major role in cyclicity of reproductive events. Future studies examining species at various taxonomic levels, as well as species in sympatry, will provide additional insight into hypotheses concerning abiotic factors and reproductive biology.