Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Infection in patchy populations: Contrasting pathogen invasion success and dispersal at varying times since host colonization

Repeated extinction and recolonization events generate a landscape of host populations that vary in their time since colonization. Within this dynamic landscape, pathogens that excel at invading recently colonized host populations are not necessarily those that perform best in host populations at or near their carrying capacity, potentially giving rise to divergent selection for pathogen traits that mediate the invasion process. Rarely, however, has this contention been empirically tested. Using Daphnia magna, we explored how differences in the colonization history of a host population influence the invasion success of different genotypes of the pathogen Pasteuria ramosa. By partitioning the pathogen invasion process into a series of individual steps, we show that each pathogen optimizes invasion differently when encountering host populations that vary in their time since colonization. All pathogen genotypes were more likely to establish successfully in recently colonized host populations, but the production of transmission spores was typically maximized in either the subsequent growth or stationary phase of host colonization. Integrating across the first three pathogen invasion steps (initial establishment, proliferation, and secondary infection) revealed that overall pathogen invasion success (and its variance) was, nonetheless, highest in recently colonized host populations. However, only pathogens that were slow to kill their host were able to maximize host‐facilitated dispersal. This suggests that only a subset of pathogen genotypes—the less virulent and more dispersive—are more likely to encounter newly colonized host populations at the front of a range expansion or in metapopulations with high extinction rates. Our results suggest a fundamental trade‐off for a pathogen between dispersal and virulence, and evidence for higher invasion success in younger host populations, a finding with clear implications for pathogen evolution in spatiotemporally dynamic settings.
Myotube formation in skeletal muscle regeneration.

Abstract Muscle fibre regeneration in the latissimus dorsi of adult rats has been studied by light and electron microscopy. Both 'continuous' and 'discontinuous' modes of regeneration occur. In 'continuous' regeneration sarcoplasmic buds grow from the damaged muscle fibres, their nuclei apparently originating from the healthy portion of the muscle fibre. In 'discontinuous' regeneration mononucleated cells accumulate inside intact but vacated, sarcolemmal tubes. They differentiate into myofibril-containing myoblasts which later fuse. 'Continuous' regeneration occurs when the sarcolemmal sheaths are disrupted; 'discontinuous' regeneration when the sarcolemmal sheaths remain intact.
On Serendipity in the Digital Medium: Towards a Framework for Valuable Unpredictability in Interaction Design

This research proposes the creation of a methodological framework for the design of interactive systems that allow and encourage valuable and unpredictable—viz serendipitous—encounters in the digital medium, expanding on its ability for the discovery of novel information, for enabling unfamiliar experiences, and supporting creative practices. The current trajectory of the design of interactive systems aims for increased optimisation and personalisation of digital experiences which, while situationally apropos, when universally adopted hamper the scope and potential of the digital medium, limiting its reach to the systems’ constructed persona of the interactor. Considering the role digital media plays in contemporary life, we believe that by designing towards serendipity, we permit not just optimum interactions in the digital medium but also the wide breadth of human experience. To that end we establish a theoretically-grounded understanding of serendipity, identifying its fundamental concepts and domains. Grounding serendipity in both information discovery and interaction design, we propose a pattern for the serendipitous experience consisting of four stages: Prepared Mind, Trigger, Epiphany, and Value. Furthermore, observing the feasibility of designing for serendipity through an analysis of its accidental nature, we propose a distinction between serendipity that occurs naturally and that which may be designed. Following an exploration of the serendipitous approach of existing interactive systems, we proceed to the proposal of a framework composed by three identified vectors: Human Factors, Human Activities, and Heuristics which, through their articulation and interplay, define both a model for the development of serendipitous systems, as well as the analysis of existing ones. Through the established understanding of serendipity and the developed framework, we not only aim for enabling the design of serendipitous systems, but also to alert for the necessity and significance of serendipity itself, to both designers and interactors of the digital medium.
Large-scale multivariate activation states of the human brain

Much of our lives are spent in unconstrained rest states, yet cognitive brain processes are primarily investigated experimentally using task-constrained states. It may be possible to utilize the insights gained from experimental control of task processes as reference points for investigating unconstrained rest. To facilitate comparison of rest and task functional MRI (fMRI) data we focused on activation amplitude patterns, commonly used for task but not rest analyses. During rest, we identified spontaneous changes in temporally extended whole-brain activation pattern states. This revealed a hierarchical organization of rest states. The top consisted of two competing states consistent with previously identified "task-positive" and "task-negative" activation patterns. These states were composed of a variety of more specific states that repeated over time and across individuals. In contrast to the classic view that rest consists of only task-negative states, task-positive states were present over 40% of the time while individuals "rested. " This suggests individuals conduct extensive task-oriented mental activity during rest. Consistent with this interpretation, classifier decoding of rest brain states based on thousands of task fMRI studies identified a variety of matched active tasks. Further, an analysis of task data revealed a similar hierarchical structure of brain states. Together these results suggest brain activation dynamics form a general hierarchy across both task and rest, with a small number of dominant general states reflecting basic modes of brain function along with a variety of specific states likely reflecting the rich variety of cognitive states experienced in everyday life.
Orbital Evolution of Geosynchronous Objects with High Area-To-Mass Ratios

The dynamical evolution of objects released in geostationary orbit with area-to-mass ratios (A/M) between 1 and 50 m/kg was analyzed, both short (a few months) and long-term (54 years), taking into account geopotential harmonics (8 × 8), luni-solar perturbations, direct solar radiation pressure with eclipses and, when applicable, air drag. The results obtained confirm that such objects may be good candidates to explain the recently discovered debris population with mean motions of about one revolution per day and orbital eccentricities as high as 0.55. More specifically, for A/M > 40 m/kg, orbital decay is attained in less than 40 months due to the eccentricity rise, while, for lower values of the area-to-mass ratio, a lifetime of at least two decades was found. Increasing A/M from 1 to 15 m/kg, the amplitude of the shortterm eccentricity oscillation grows from about 0.03 to 0.3, while the long-term variation increases from approximately 0.02 to 0.5. Above 15 m/kg, the pattern of eccentricity evolution becomes more complicated, with typically larger excursions. Concerning the inclination evolution, objects with A/M = 1 m/kg exhibit the classical behavior of a typical abandoned geostationary spacecraft. However, a further increase of the area-to-mass ratio has as consequence a faster orbit pole precession and wider amplitude of the plane motion.
Modelling of an automotive natural gas engine for A/F control investigations

In this thesis, the problem of A/F ratio control in a natural gas, internal combustion engine is addressed, with the global objective of reducing exhaust emission pollutants. A review of some mechanical approaches to exhaust pollutant reduction are assessed. It is found that many techniques aid the reduction of exhaust pollutants, but the most effective is the 3-way catalytic converter. To maintain conversion efficiency, the A/F ratio must be strictly controlled within the catalyst window limits around the stoichiometric operating point. In order to investigate possible control techniques, a mathematical model is developed to simulate the physical behaviour of the engine processes. This approach allows a quick turn-around in terms of cost and time, for control investigations. The model demonstrates close trend-wise approximation of the engine states with previous modelling studies, however, a full validation study was not possible. The model is then used to conduct investigations into A/F ratio control through the process of simulation. Conventional Pl-closed-loop control is assessed for steady-state and transient engine conditions, and for varying microprocessor sampling rates. It is found that Pi-control effectively removes state estimation errors, but is unable to remove A/F ratio excursions under transient operation. An open-loop compensation control structure is then developed as an extension to the IM-controller action. Simulation results show this approach to drastically reduce A/F ratio excursions for a number of typical driving scenarios. Potential problems that could well be encountered in the “real” engine environment are then investigated, and the practicality of the new controller assessed. A new approach to control is simulated that affords the most appropriate state estimation for the modelled system. This is shown to improve A/F ratio control upon that of the conventional approach but cannot match the compensation controller ability.
Development of a Technology Commercialization Model for Indian Biotechnology Firms

Commercialization of technology is vital to the survival and success of biotechnology firms, which offer solutions to key environmental concerns, such as air pollution, soil pollution, and climate change. Although a number of technology commercialization models have been proposed, the specific requirements of biotechnology commercialization, which include specialized infrastructure, intense research and development interactions, time-sensitive decision making, and pilot scaling have been addressed in the limited way in the previous literature. In this article, we study the process of technology commercialization through in-depth interviews with managers of biotechnology firms in India and propose a commercialization model that is tailored to biotechnology firms operating in an Indian setting. With the help of a two-tailed multiple case study design, we develop a commercialization model that identifies six new subprocesses and three valleys of death. The model can assist managers and entrepreneurs throughout the commercialization journey by defining objectives, activities, and outcomes of each of the 18 subprocesses of technology commercialization. Biotechnology firms can use this model to minimize errors, reduce time to market, and ensure time-sensitive decision making.
In-plane compression behavior of anti-tetrachiral and re-entrant lattices

In the present study, a comparative compression investigation of anti-tetrachiral and modified re-entrant lattices was conducted in-plane direction using experimental and numerical analyses. Lattice structures were manufactured using fused deposition modelling 3D printing technology and crushed at quasi-static condition. Nonlinear finite element (FE) models of both structures were established, and the FE results were systematically compared with the experimental results. The onset of densification phases of both structures was determined numerically. Results indicate that deformation modes strongly affect the force-deflection response of both designs. In this manner, failure locations and buckling deformation in the tests were identified to find a relation with theory and to modify geometries. The anti-tetrachiral design exhibits higher specific energy absorption than modified re-entrant hexagonal lattices. Beyond the auxetic characteristics, deformation mechanism of the anti-tetrachiral lattices provides an opportunity to construct excellent crush absorption in-plane direction thanks to its high shear strength stem from its unique deformation mechanism.
Positive and negative effects of proges terone during timed AI protocols in lactating dairy cattle

Circulating concentration of progesterone (P4) is determined by a balance between P4 production, primarily by corpus luteum (CL), and P4 metabolism, primarily by liver. The volume of large luteal cells in the CL is a primary factor regulating P4 production. Rate of P4 metabolism is generally determined by liver blood flow and can be of critical importance in determining circulating P4 concentrations, particularly in dairy cattle. During timed AI protocols, elevations in P4 are achieved by increasing number of CL by ovulation of accessory CL or by supplementation with exogenous P4. Dietary manipulations, such as fat supplementation, can also be used to alter circulating P4. Elevating P4 prior to the timed AI generally decreases double ovulation and can increase fertility to the timed AI. This appears to be an effect of P4 during the follicular wave that produces the future ovulatory follicle, possibly by altering the oocyte and subsequent embryo. Near the time of AI, slight elevations in circulating P4 can dramatically reduce fertility. The etiology of slight elevations in P4 near AI is inadequate luteolysis to the prostaglandin F2α (PGF) treatment prior to timed AI. After AI, circulating P4 is critical for embryo growth and establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Many studies have attempted to improve fertility by elevating P4 after timed AI. Combining results of these studies indicated only marginal fertility benefits of <5%. In conclusion, previous research has provided substantial insight into the effects of supplemental P4 on fertility and there is increasing insight into the mechanisms regulating circulating P4 concentrations and actions. Understanding this prior research can focus future research on P4 manipulation to improve timed AI protocols.
Digital Health Behavior Change Technology: Bibliometric and Scoping Review of Two Decades of Research

Background Research on digital technology to change health behavior has increased enormously in recent decades. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of this topic, knowledge and technologies from different research areas are required. Up to now, it is not clear how the knowledge from those fields is combined in actual applications. A comprehensive analysis that systematically maps and explores the use of knowledge within this emerging interdisciplinary field is required. Objective This study aims to provide an overview of the research area around the design and development of digital technologies for health behavior change and to explore trends and patterns. Methods A bibliometric analysis is used to provide an overview of the field, and a scoping review is presented to identify the trends and possible gaps. The study is based on the publications related to persuasive technologies and health behavior change in the last 18 years, as indexed by the Web of Science and Scopus (317 and 314 articles, respectively). In the first part, regional and time-based publishing trends; research fields and keyword co-occurrence networks; influential journals; and collaboration network between influential authors, countries, and institutions are examined. In the second part, the behavioral domains, technological means and theoretical foundations are investigated via a scoping review. Results The literature reviewed shows a clear and emerging trend after 2001 in technology-based behavior change, which grew exponentially after the introduction of the smartphone around 2009. Authors from the United States, Europe, and Australia have the highest number of publications in the field. The three most active research areas are computer science, public and occupational health, and psychology. The keyword “mhealth” was the dominant term and predominantly used together with the term “physical activity” and “ehealth”. A total of three strong clusters of coauthors have been found. Nearly half of the total reported papers were published in three journals. The United States, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands have the highest degree of author collaboration and a strong institutional network. Mobile phones were most often used as a technology platform, regardless of the targeted behavioral domain. Physical activity and healthy eating were the most frequently targeted behavioral domains. Most articles did not report about the behavior change techniques that were applied. Among the reported behavior change techniques, goal setting and self-management were the most frequently reported. Conclusions Closer cooperation and interaction between behavioral sciences and technological areas is needed, so that theoretical knowledge and new technological advancements are better connected in actual applications. Eventually, this could result in a larger societal impact, an increase of the effectiveness of digital technologies for health behavioral change, and more insight in the relationship between behavioral change strategies and persuasive technologies' effectiveness.
Molecular Detection of Cordycepin-Induced HeLa Cell Apoptosis with Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

Cordycepin, extracted from the medicinal mushroom Cordyceps militaris, was shown to induce cancer cell apoptosis. Yet its anticancer function was limitedly evaluated, and the mechanism was not entirely elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated the effectiveness of cordycepin in inducing apoptosis in HeLa cells and investigated its apoptosis-inducing mechanism through label-free surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). SERS spectral changes revealed detailed molecular changes in both early and late stages of apoptosis. Importantly, SERS characteristic peaks at 805 and 1438 cm−1, which were assigned to RNA, continued to decrease significantly from early to late apoptosis stages. It indicated that cordycepin induced HeLa cell apoptosis mainly through interfering with RNA production, potentially by restraining the translation of RNA encoding ribosomal proteins. Meanwhile, apoptotic cells and their apoptosis stage could be easily differentiated by SERS-based principal component analysis (PCA). Furthermore, the morphological changes of early and late-stage apoptotic cells were illustrated by differential interference contrast and fluorescence microscopic imaging. Therefore, the natural ingredient, cordycepin, could serve as a promising anticancer candidate. Our biological model of cell apoptosis in vitro, the non-invasive and rapid SERS technique, combined with PCA analysis, could be a powerful tool in the investigation of cell apoptosis mechanisms and anticancer drug screening.
How to fulfil social needs of older people: Exploring design opportunities for technological interventions

(Op dit artikel zit een embargo van 12 maanden. Per oktober 2020 open access beschikbaar). Social needs are important basic human needs; when not satisfied, loneliness and social isolation can occur and subsequently sickness or even premature death. For older people social needs can be more difficult to satisfy be­cause of the loss of resources such as health and mobility. Interventions for older people to satisfy social needs are often not evaluated and when evaluated are not proven successful. Technological interventions can be successful, but the relationship between technology and social wellbeing is complex and more research in this area is needed. The aim of this research is to uncover design opportunities for technological interventions to fulfil social needs of older people. Context-mapping sessions are a way to gain more insight into the social needs of older people and to involve them in the design of interventions to fulfil social needs. Participants of the context-mapping sessions were older people and social workers working with older people. Four sessions with a total of 20 participants were held to generate ideas for interventions to satisfy social needs. The results are transcripts from the discussion parts of the context-mapping sessions and collages the participants cre­ated. The transcripts were independently analysed and inductive codes were attached to quotations in the transcripts that are relevant to the research question and subsequently thematic analysis took place. Collages made by the participants were independently ana­lysed by the researchers and after discussion consensus was reached about important themes. The following three main themes emerged: ‘connectedness’, ‘independence’ and ‘meaningfulness’. Technology was not identified as a separate theme, but was addressed in relation to the above mentioned themes. Staying active in a meaningful way, for example by engaging in volunteer work, may fulfil the three needs of being connected, independent and meaningful. In addition, interventions can also focus on the need to be and remain independent and to deal with becoming more dependent. The older people in our study have an ambivalent attitude towards technology, which needs to be taken into account when designing an intervention. We conclude this paper by making recommendations for possible technological interventions to fulfil social needs.
The roles of social identity and dynamic salient group formations for ERP program management success in a postmerger context

Large enterprise resource planning (ERP) programs and their critical success factors (CSFs) have been subject to intensive research in recent years. One of the key challenges is their complexity in terms of their duration, context, and social dynamics. The aim of this study is to investigate these matters with the help of an interpretative case study using the coding techniques of the grounded theory method. We extend extant ERP research by introducing a new theoretical perspective that helps to clarify how stakeholder perceptions and CSFs are interrelated, and evolve throughout the life cycle of a large ERP implementation conceptualized as a program in a postmerger context. Using Social Identity Theory as a metatheory for interpretation, we find that different perceptions of opposing salient groups are particularly important. Our result offers a dialectic process view of ERP program implementation success, which (1) considers the different perceptions of salient groups (2) at different points in time (phases) and (3) proposes that a low perceptual fit in relation to a specific CSF contributes to program failure as opposed to (4) a high perceptual fit in relation to the respective CSF, which contributes to program success. We offer a new theoretical lens and propositions for future work highlighting the importance of salient groups and their CSF perceptions for ERP program success. Practitioners can use our findings as a guide towards increasing the probability of success throughout the course of their ERP program life cycles.