Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Control of inflammation using non-invasive neuromodulation: past, present and promise

Abstract The nervous system has been increasingly recognized as a novel and accessible target in the regulation of inflammation. The use of implantable and invasive devices targeting neural circuits has yielded successful results in clinical settings but does have some risk or adverse effects. Recent advances in technology and understanding of mechanistic pathways have opened new avenues of non-invasive neuromodulation. Through this review we discuss the novel research and outcomes of major modalities of non-invasive neuromodulation in the context of inflammation including transcutaneous electrical, magnetic and ultrasound neuromodulation. In addition to highlighting the scientific observations and breakthroughs, we discuss the underlying mechanisms and pathways for neural regulation of inflammation.
Perfusion and Permeability MRI Predicts Future Cavernous Angioma Hemorrhage and Growth

Cerebral cavernous angioma (CA) is a capillary vasculopathy affecting more than a million Americans with a small fraction of cases demonstrating lesional bleed or growth with major clinical sequelae. Perfusion and permeability are fundamental features of CA pathophysiology, but their role as prognostic biomarkers is unclear.
One year into the pandemic: the impacts of social vulnerability on COVID-19 outcomes and urban–rural differences in the conterminous United States

ABSTRACT This paper first explores spatial distributions and patterns of COVID-19 case rates (cases/100,000 people) and mortality rates (deaths/100,000 people) and their disparities between urban and rural counties in the contiguous US. A county-level social vulnerability index was created using principal component analysis. Social vulnerability components were regressed against both county case and mortality rates. Results suggest that hotspots of case and mortality rates are clustered in Midwest and Upper-Midwest US. We found substantial disparities in case and mortality rates between urban and rural counties. County social vulnerability was positively correlated with both case and mortality rates suggesting counties with higher social vulnerability had higher case and mortality rates. Relationships between social vulnerability components and case and mortality rates vary across the conterminous US. Additionally, counties with increased racial and ethnic minorities, higher percentages of minors, and lower median household income are associated with higher COVID-19 case and mortality rates.
Nesting Synchrony and Clutch Size in Migratory Birds: Capital versus Income Breeding Determines Responses to Variable Spring Onset

Synchronous reproduction of birds has often been explained by benefits from nesting together, but this concept fails to explain observed intraspecific variation and climate-mediated changes of breeding synchrony. Here, we present a theoretical model of birds that store resources for reproduction (capital breeders) to show how breeding synchrony, clutch size, and offspring recruitment respond to changes in timing of first possible breeding date. Our approach is based on individual fitness maximization when both prebreeding foraging and offspring development are time constrained. The model predicts less synchronous breeding, smaller clutch size, and higher chances for offspring recruitment in capital breeding birds that advance their nesting. For contrast, we also show that birds that need to acquire resources during egg laying (income breeders) do not change nesting synchrony but increase clutch size along with earlier breeding. The prediction of stronger nesting synchronization of capital breeders in years with late nesting onset is confirmed by empirical data on breeding synchrony of a high-latitude capital breeding sea duck, the common eider (Somateria mollissima). We predict that in warming high-latitude ecosystems, bird species that depend on stored reserves for reproduction are expected to desynchronize their nesting.
Optimal Allocation Ratios: A Square Root Relationship between the Ratios of Symbiotic Costs and Benefits

All organisms struggle to make sense of environmental stimuli in order to maximize their fitness. For animals, the responses of single cells and superorganisms to stimuli are generally proportional to stimulus ratios, a phenomenon described by Weber’s law. However, Weber’s law has not yet been used to predict how plants respond to stimuli generated from their symbiotic partners. Here we develop a model for quantitatively predicting the ratios of carbon (C) allocation to symbionts that provide nutrients to their plant host. Consistent with Weber’s law, our model demonstrates that the optimal ratio of resources allocated to a less beneficial relative to a more beneficial symbiont scale to the ratio of the growth benefits of the two strains. As C allocation to symbionts increases, the ratio of C allocation to two strains approaches the square root of the ratio of symbiotic growth benefits (e.g., a worse symbiont providing one-fourth the benefits gets 1/4=1/2 the C of a better symbiont). We document a compelling correspondence between our square root model prediction and a meta-analysis of experimental literature on C allocation. This type of preferential allocation can promote coexistence between more beneficial and less beneficial symbionts, offering a potential mechanism behind the high diversity of microbial symbionts observed in nature.
Effect of Productivity on Community Size Explains the Latitudinal Diversity Gradient of South American Small Mammals

Although many studies have shown that species richness increases from high to low latitudes (the latitudinal diversity gradient), the mechanisms responsible for generating and maintaining higher species richness in the tropics remain intensely debated. Here we investigate how the effects of temperature on speciation rates (kinetic effects) and the effects of productivity on community size (chemical effects) explain the latitudinal diversity gradient of South American small mammals. We implemented Bayesian models that integrate processes from the neutral and metabolic theories, comparing model predictions with empirical richness patterns. The neutral-metabolic model predicted the latitudinal richness gradient in South American small mammals. We found evidence that the effects of productivity on community size are more important for explaining differences in species richness than the effects of temperature on speciation rates. These results suggest that differences in species richness along latitudinal gradients are regulated primarily by the chemical effects of productivity on speciation-extinction dynamics.
Re-Examination of Morphological Variations in the Female Internal Genitalia of Helicoverpa armigera and Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) for Identification and Pest Management

Abstract Two of the most serious agricultural pests, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (both Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), are similar in their appearances. To distinguish them, morphological characters of female internal genitalia were re-examined. Specimens were collected from 7 regions in 17 countries. All specimens were identified in advance by molecular methods. Significant differences were observed in the length of the bursa copulatrix, ductus bursa, and pigmented area on the base of appendix bursa. Helicoverpa armigera had dense spicules on the luminal surface of the appendix bursa which were absent on the corresponding surface in H. zea. Additionally, differences of length on these parts in female genitalia will be helpful for identification. We are confident these morphological characters will advance resolution of noctuid speciation by taxonomists to properly identify these species based on distinguishing features of the female genitalia.
Enabling Players to Develop Theories of Change for Sustainable Development: A Serious Game

Introduction Sustainable development and sustainability transformations have reached high urgency on national and international agendas and involve new knowledge and learning processes. Transdisciplinary co-production of knowledge as a research approach in combination with the methodological elaboration of theories of change have potential to support transformative learning processes. Both approaches engage with questions about the actors involved, impact pathways, or the role of power and agency in a given context. Intervention We introduce the THEORY OF CHANGE GAME, which applies theory of change thinking to transdisciplinary projects aiming for sustainable development. A combination of board and card game, it evolves around collaborative discussions. Method We explain the iterative development rounds of the game through several game sessions in different settings and analyse whether and how the game supports social learning for sustainable development. To assess social learning, we draw on the typology developed by Baird et al. (2014), which includes cognitive, relational, and normative learning. Results The iterative development rounds took place first in academic settings and then in a non-academic event. Our observations during the game and the debriefing rounds after the game demonstrate that social learning takes place in the form of cognitive and relational learning. Verified findings on normative learning would need other assessment approaches. Discussion and conclusion Several development rounds supported the design of a game that is suitable to support social learning for sustainable development. We see the potential of the game mainly in cognitive and relational learning. Further work on gamification elements could help to enhance the entertainment component of the game.
Global Leader Self-Complexity: Conceptualization and Scale Validation

Existing research and theory provides support for the assertion that the survival of organizations in the globalized world is contingent upon the match between their external complexity and the complexity of their internal systems, including their leadership processes. Global leaders high in self-complexity are equipped to lead the successful adaptation of their organizations to their global environments. Unfortunately, the absence of clear conceptualization and valid, reliable measures have prevented the advancement of our understanding of self-complexity in general, and global leader self-complexity in particular. To help close this research gap, I put forth a theory of global leader self-complexity, which I then operationalize with the Global Leader Self-Complexity Scale (GLSCS). I assess the factor structure, reliability, and validity in three studies. The Study 1 results suggest that global leader self-complexity is a two-dimensional construct comprised of global leader self-differentiation and self-integration. The Study 2 results provide evidence for the test-retest reliability and convergent, divergent, and predictive validity of the GLSCS. Obtained with a sample of hundreds of global leaders from around the world, the Study 3 results provide evidence for the generalization validity of the GLSCS. The theoretical implications for the nomological network of global leader self-differentiation are self-integration are discussed, as well as practical implications for the development and selection of effective global leaders. Finally, I suggest avenues for future researchers to advance the research of global leader self-complexity and leader self-complexity more broadly.
A new genus and species of planthopper from Seychelles endemic palm forest (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Derbidae)

ABSTRACT A remarkable derbid planthopper was discovered in endemic palm forest on Praslin, Seychelles. Here, we describe it as Salaziella praslinensis Bolotov & Spitsyn gen. & sp. nov. (Derbidae: Otiocerinae: Zoraidini). The new taxon habitually resembles a group of Zoraidini genera, the frons of which shares gradually widening lateral carinae in the upper part, that is, Zorabana Van Stalle, 1984 from Africa and Helcita Stal, 1856 [=Jada Distant, 1906] from Africa and tropical Asia. However, it can be distinguished from these genera based on diagnostic differences in the tegmen venation pattern. The new species is known to occur in a single forest patch on Praslin and seems to be threatened by habitat loss and invasive species impact. Hence, it could be accessed as Critically Endangered (CR B1a). http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:E3236191-01A7-4DD4-905D-1D236C0F1446
A theoretical framework for understanding children’s learning at play in a hybrid reality

ABSTRACT The aim of this article is to propose a theoretical framework for understanding children’s learning at play in a hybrid reality. Meta-synthesis is applied as a method for examining children’s meaning making activities when playing in a hybrid reality. The data consists of 41 peer-reviewed articles. Through qualitative content analysis previous theoretical frameworks and theories are validated or extended and finally outlined as a theoretical framework. Five essential concepts for interpreting and understanding children’s learning at play in a hybrid reality are identified and proposed: performing self, exploration, contribution, connection and multimodal participatory literacies. The framework is not fully applicable on digital play activities focusing on ‘skill and drill’; rather, the framework should be applied on digital play activities where the outcome is not clear. In these kind of play activities, children can explore and make use of their imagination when creating multimodal representations together with their playmates.
Improvised active music therapy for clients with Parkinson’s disease: A feasibility study

The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of delivering Improvised Active Music Therapy sessions in measuring the impact of acquisition of rhythmic complexity levels on gait performance in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. In this single subject multiple baseline design, the study measured the ability of three right-handed participants with Parkinson’s disease to acquire greater density of syncopation, as a measure of rhythmic complexity levels, while playing uninterrupted improvised music on a simplified electronic drum-set. The music content of the sessions was transformed into digital music data in real-time using Musical Instrument Digital Interface. The Musical Instrument Digital Interface data were analyzed to determine the participants’ and the Music Therapist’s density of syncopation (on acoustic guitar) during baseline and treatment conditions. Results from visual analyses and Pearson’s correlations on the outcomes indicated conflicting and inconclusive outcomes about whether higher acquisition of rhythmic complexity levels improves gait performance in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Despite this, evidence was found to support the overall value of Improvised Active Music Therapy sessions on gait performance. The study design, the intervention, and outcome measures were found to be feasible and could be scaled-up into a larger trial.
Review of the genus Doncricotopus (Orthocladiinae: Chironomidae): with the description of a new species from Canada

ABSTRACT Genus Doncricotopus Sæther, 1981 is reviewed based on type and voucher material from Canada and Finland. Along with additions and emendation for adult male’s characters of Doncricotopus bicaudatus Sæther, 1981 and Doncricotopus dentatus Tuiskunen, 1985, we describe a new species, Doncricotopus nunavummiuti, with description of its female, pupal and larval stages, and provide keys for adult males and immatures. http://www.zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:910BCBCF-DFB8-4F7A-9386-2BD7BAF86440
The Effect of Online Channel Addition on Store Performance: Empirical Evidence from Chinese Chain Retailers

Abstract With the rapid development of e-Commerce and takeaway platforms, retailers have gradually developed multi-channel operations. However, limited empirical studies explored the effects of an online channel offered by takeaway platforms on the store performance. Does an online channel addition have a synergy effect or a cannibalization effect on store performance? We empirically investigate these effects by analyzing a large dataset including diverse samples collected from multiple retailers across various regions. The dataset includes 2115 stores across 25 retailers for 10 months that includes two types of retail formats and covers 16 provinces and 21 cities of China. We study the impacts of the newly introduced online channel on the incumbent offline channel and the overall store performance. The empirical results reveal that the online channel addition mainly has a synergy effect. Specifically, for the overall store, it has a positive effect on the sales and product variety, whereas it has a negative effect on the basket size. Surprisingly, an online channel addition also has a positive effect on the offline sales. Our study adds novel values to multi-channel retailing literature by empirically researching the cannibalization and synergy effect of a new type of online channel, offered by takeaway platforms. It can provide insights for retail enterprises who are interested in introducing O2O model.
Experimental and Simulation Study of Drying Skipjack Tuna with a Modified Microwave Drying System

ABSTRACT A microwave (MW) drying system was built for drying skipjack tuna. It was composed of waveguide and cavity, and a modification to the high-voltage power supply using a power electronic device to control the phase of AC input voltage to a high-voltage transformer. The calibration of the MW power enables tuning the power to be used for drying skipjack tuna. The experimental set-up was studied drying kinetics: time profiles of temperature and moisture content (%MC). The temperature was measured using a thermopile thermometer, which was connected to the microcontroller and the PC via an RS232 port. The %MC was monitored gravimetrically. The experimental results and the simulation results from finite element method computations were compared by assessing the coefficient of determination (R 2) and the root-mean-square-error (RMSE). Finally, empirical and semi-theoretical models were fit to the experimental results of moisture ratio and evaluated for best fit using R 2 and RMSE.
Physicochemical and Nutrient Release Characteristics of a Thermochemical Organic Fertilizer Produced from Degradable Solid Waste and Its Effect on Productivity of Banana

ABSTRACT Physicochemical characterization and a 300-day soil incubation was conducted to study the effect of a thermochemical organic fertilizer (TOF) produced from biowaste through rapid thermochemical processing technology on soil properties and nutrient release pattern at the Kerala Agricultural University, India. A field experiment to study the effect of TOF on the growth and yield of banana (Nendran) was conducted. The physicochemical properties of TOF were conforming to prescribed quality standards. The TOF imparted moderation of acidity, lower soluble salts and a steady and constant release pattern of organic carbon on incubation. Mineralized nitrogen dynamics was superior in TOF combined with Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria, characterized by a 120-day cycle of net nitrogen mineralization on 10 days and a net immobilization on 20 days. Highest P mineralization was recorded at 150 days with a phase of total immobilization from 180 to 240 days. Mineralization and immobilization up to 60 days, marked by a steady release of potassium followed by a progressive mineralization up to 240 days was evident. The TOF based treatments proved to be superior in plant height, number of leaves, pseudostem girth, bunch yield and dry matter production in banana as compared to farmyard manure – based treatments.
Optimisation of Concentration of Undaria pinnarifida (Wakame) and Himathalia elongate (Sea Spaghetti) Varieties to Effect Digestibility, Texture and Consumer Attribute Preference

ABSTRACT In this study, seaweed concertation in a model system (cracker) was investigated to better understand addition of seaweed on starch modulation, texture, and consumer attribute detection. Temporal dominance of sensations (TDS) showed that seaweed concentrations over 15% had a dominant attribute of fishy for both Wakame and Sea Spaghetti varieties, whereas for both, Crunchy was observed for the 5% and 10% crackers. This corralled well with the texture analysis where crackers fortified with both seaweeds at 5% and 10% have a harder texture, with lower fracturability compared to higher concentrated seaweed crackers. The fracturability levels within the 15% and 20% crackers were comparable to the no substitution controls. In vitro digestion indicated that glucose was liberated immediately after initiation, with both seaweed systems reaching plateau by 4 minutes. In this study it was observed that seaweed variety affected starch digestibility, with wakame seaweed inhibiting starch digestion.
U.S. presidential debates 1948–2020: an issue of formality and respect

Abstract This article investigates the level of formality in presidential debates. Using content analytic techniques, this study documents trends in address terms (ranging from the use of honorific titles to interpersonal insults) in presidential debates from 1948 to 2020. An availability sample of 241 debates (94% of all presidential primary and general election debates), including 21,857 coding units, reveal an overall decline in formal communication via the use of appropriate honorific titles and subsequent growth in informal and disrespectful references. Incivility spiral theory offers an interpretative framework that links the increase in informal patterns of communication to the growing level of incivility in debate discourse. Within this framework, it is speculated that a shift toward informality could be linked to a larger incivility spiral that will continue into the future. Beyond the link to incivility, it is also argued the shift toward informality may have a range of unique negative consequences.
Leveraging student-centred teaching practices by authentic simulations environment and self-regulated learning

ABSTRACT One of the required 21st-century skills necessary to cope with challenging tasks in teaching is nurturing active independent learners who can perform self-regulated learning (SRL). To support teachers in attaining and transferring their newly acquired knowledge and practices to real-time teaching in the classroom, an effective professional development programme should include authentic environments that enhance autonomous learners. We introduce a theoretical–practical model that integrates simulations with professional actors (SIM) with SRL principles (SIM–SRL). The current study aims to examine the contributions of the integrated SIM-SRL model, to leverage training with a unique simulative environment supported by metacognitive SRL questions and to nurture student-centred practices. In a quasi-experimental study, we examined the environmental effects on 113 primary school teachers by comparing three groups: SIM–SRL, SIM only, and a control exposed to a meaningful learning programme. Video-recorded lessons and self-reflections after the lesson revealed four student-centred teaching practices that support SRL: knowledge construction, metacognitive questions, think-time and collaboration. Results indicated that teachers in the SIM-SRL group had significantly higher performance scores, followed by the SIM group, which in turn outperformed the control group. Implications for professional development programmes are discussed.