bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empirical Performance Analysis of Collective Communication for Distributed Deep Learning in a Many-Core CPU Environment
Authors: Woo Junghoon , Choi Hyeonseong , Lee Jaehwan
Published: September 2020

To accommodate lots of training data and complex training models, “distributed” deep learning training has become employed more and more frequently. However, communication bottlenecks between distributed systems lead to poor performance of distributed deep learning training. In this study, we proposed a new collective communication method in a Python environment by utilizing Multi-Channel Dynamic Random Access Memory (MCDRAM) in Intel Xeon Phi Knights Landing processors. Major deep learning software platforms, such as TensorFlow and PyTorch, offer Python as a main development language, so we developed an efficient communication library by adapting Memkind library, which is a C-based library to utilize high-performance memory MCDRAM. For performance evaluation, we tested the popular collective communication methods in distributed deep learning, such as Broadcast, Gather, and AllReduce. We conducted experiments to analyze the effect of high-performance memory and processor location on communication performance. In addition, we analyze performance in a Docker environment for further relevance given the recent major trend of Cloud computing. By extensive experiments in our testbed, we confirmed that the communication in our proposed method showed performance improvement by up to 487%.
New Landslide Disaster Monitoring System: Case Study of Pingding Village
Authors: Fang Yao Min , Chou Tien Yin , Hoang Thanh Van , Bui Quang Thanh , Nguyen Duy Ba , Nguyen Quoc Huy
Published: September 2020

The Linbeiken area is located in the village of Pingding, Taiwan. Since the Mindulle and Aere Typhoons in 2004, and as a result of the landslide triggered by the continuous heavy rainfall on 9 June 2006, there has been a persistent collapse of side slopes in the area. This paper describes the equipment that was installed to collect on-site topographic and hydrological information in the Linbeiken area upstream of the Pingding River and to monitor changes in the landslide area, as well as the measurements that were collected during the 2008 Typhoon Sinlaku. A case study of a landslide in Pingding, Taiwan was used to monitor the accurate coordinate changes in the potential landslide areas during typhoons. The goal of this study was to establish warning indexes, and to strengthen the software and hardware at the local disaster response center in the hope of gaining a full idea of the surface movement in landslide areas in future flood seasons. This is important for boosting the preparedness to adapt to landslide hazards, for improving disaster warnings, and for reporting efficiently to better protect the lives and property of local residents. The results show that the landslide disaster monitoring and warning system in Taiwan, as applied during Typhoon Sinlaku in 2008, is both effective and comprehensive.
Stress Granule Assembly Can Facilitate but Is Not Required for TDP-43 Cytoplasmic Aggregation
Authors: Fernandes Nikita , Nero Luke , Lyons Shawn , Ivanov Pavel , Mittelmeier Telsa , Bolger Timothy , Buchan J.
Published: September 2020

Stress granules (SGs) are hypothesized to facilitate TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43) cytoplasmic mislocalization and aggregation, which may underly amyotrophic lateral sclerosis pathology. However, much data for this hypothesis is indirect. Additionally, whether P-bodies (PBs; related mRNA-protein granules) affect TDP-43 phenotypes is unclear. Here, we determine that induction of TDP-43 expression in yeast results in the accumulation of SG-like foci that in >90% of cases become the sites where TDP-43 cytoplasmic foci first appear. Later, TDP-43 foci associate less with SGs and more with PBs, though independent TDP-43 foci also accumulate. However, depleting or over-expressing yeast SG and PB proteins reveals no consistent trend between SG or PB assembly and TDP-43 foci formation, toxicity or protein abundance. In human cells, immunostaining endogenous TDP-43 with different TDP-43 antibodies reveals distinct localization and aggregation behaviors. Following acute arsenite stress, all phospho-TDP-43 foci colocalize with SGs. Finally, formation of TDP-43 cytoplasmic foci following low-dose chronic arsenite stress is impaired, but not completely blocked, in G3BP1/2ΔΔ cells. Collectively, our data suggest that SG and PB assembly may facilitate TDP-43 cytoplasmic localization and aggregation but are likely not essential for these events.
Effect of Age in Auditory Go/No-Go Tasks: A Magnetoencephalographic Study
Authors: Lin Mei-Yin , Cheng Chia-Hsiung
Published: September 2020

Response inhibition is frequently examined using visual go/no-go tasks. Recently, the auditory go/no-go paradigm has been also applied to several clinical and aging populations. However, age-related changes in the neural underpinnings of auditory go/no-go tasks are yet to be elucidated. We used magnetoencephalography combined with distributed source imaging methods to examine age-associated changes in neural responses to auditory no-go stimuli. Additionally, we compared the performance of high- and low-performing older adults to explore differences in cortical activation. Behavioral performance in terms of response inhibition was similar in younger and older adult groups. Relative to the younger adults, the older adults exhibited reduced cortical activation in the superior and middle temporal gyrus. However, we did not find any significant differences in cortical activation between the high- and low-performing older adults. Our results therefore support the hypothesis that inhibition is reduced during aging. The variation in cognitive performance among older adults confirms the need for further study on the underlying mechanisms of inhibition.
Perceptions and Emotional State of Mothers of Children with and without Microcephaly after the Zika Virus Epidemic in Rural Caribbean Colombia
Authors: Romero-Acosta Kelly , Marbán-Castro Elena , Arroyo-Alvis Katy , Arrieta Germán , Mattar Salim
Published: September 2020

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection during pregnancy can cause neurological manifestations such as microcephaly. The aim of this study was to explore perceptions of ZIKV and mental health in women exposed to ZIKV during pregnancy in Colombia. This was a mixed-methods study based on structured interviews and psychological tests. Structured interviews were transcribed and analysed with Atlas Ti software. A grounded theory approach was applied. Quantitative analysis was performed with Statistical Package for Social Science, SPSS, V. 20. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Universidad de Córdoba, Montería. Seventeen women participated in the study; nine of them were mothers of children with microcephaly. Maternal age ranged from 16 to 41 years old. The main themes discussed during interviews were: feelings, support, sources of information, and consequences on children’s health. Women with children affected by microcephaly showed worse mental health compared to women with normocephalic children. Maternal mental health worsened after 24 months from giving birth. Perceptions regarding disease severity and lack of knowledge were considered to affect maternal mental health. Social support and spirituality were key determinants for caregivers. Future research is needed to further study coping mechanisms and mental health outcomes over time by affected populations.
Recent Advancements and Future Prospects in Ultrathin 2D Semiconductor-Based Photocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Yang Xiaoyong , Singh Deobrat , Ahuja Rajeev
Published: September 2020

Ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor-mediated photocatalysts have shown their compelling potential and have arguably received tremendous attention in photocatalysis because of their superior thickness-dependent physical, chemical, mechanical and optical properties. Although numerous comprehensions about 2D semiconductor photocatalysts have been amassed up to now, low cost efficiency, degradation, kinetics of charge transfer along with recycling are still the big challenges to realize a wide application of 2D semiconductor-based photocatalysis. At present, most photocatalysts still need rare or expensive noble metals to improve the photocatalytic activity, which inhibits their commercial-scale application extremely. Thus, developing less costly, earth-abundant semiconductor-based photocatalysts with efficient conversion of sunlight energy remains the primary challenge. In this review, it begins with a brief description of the general mechanism of overall photocatalytic water splitting. Then a concise overview of different types of 2D semiconductor-mediated photocatalysts is given to figure out the advantages and disadvantages for mentioned semiconductor-based photocatalysis, including the structural property and stability, synthesize method, electrochemical property and optical properties for H2/O2 production half reaction along with overall water splitting. Finally, we conclude this review with a perspective, marked on some remaining challenges and new directions of 2D semiconductor-mediated photocatalysts.
Rho GTPases: Big Players in Breast Cancer Initiation, Metastasis and Therapeutic Responses
Authors: Humphries Brock , Wang Zhishan , Yang Chengfeng
Published: September 2020

Rho GTPases, a family of the Ras GTPase superfamily, are key regulators of the actin cytoskeleton. They were originally thought to primarily affect cell migration and invasion; however, recent advances in our understanding of the biology and function of Rho GTPases have demonstrated their diverse roles within the cell, including membrane trafficking, gene transcription, migration, invasion, adhesion, survival and growth. As these processes are critically involved in cancer initiation, metastasis and therapeutic responses, it is not surprising that studies have demonstrated important roles of Rho GTPases in cancer. Although the majority of data indicates an oncogenic role of Rho GTPases, tumor suppressor functions of Rho GTPases have also been revealed, suggesting a context and cell-type specific function for Rho GTPases in cancer. This review aims to summarize recent progresses in our understanding of the regulation and functions of Rho GTPases, specifically in the context of breast cancer. The potential of Rho GTPases as therapeutic targets and prognostic tools for breast cancer patients are also discussed.
RH Sensing by Means of TiO2 Nanoparticles: A Comparison among Different Sensing Techniques Based on Modeling and Chemical/Physical Interpretation
Authors: Cappelli Irene , Fort Ada , Lo Grasso Anna , Panzardi Enza , Mugnaini Marco , Vignoli Valerio
Published: September 2020

TiO2 nanoparticles coating has been proven to be an extremely performing sensing material for relative humidity (RH) measurements. The chemical activity of TiO2 toward water vapor adsorption and the very large surface to volume ratio typical of nanostructures are ideal characteristics for the development of RH fast and sensitive sensors. Different sensor technologies can be used in conjunction with this material to realize devices with satisfactory performance. In this paper, the authors aim to describe and discuss the main different possible choices and highlight the advantages and disadvantages, and linking them both to the underlying mechanism of water adsorption on the TiO2 sensing layer and to the modification of the electrical behavior due to the water adsorption. In particular, the authors start from results obtained by depositing TiO2 nanoparticles on a novel MEMS microbalance operating at low frequency, which allows to sense only the adsorbed water mass, and they exploit the sensor output to obtain a dynamic model of the water adsorption. They also link these results to those obtained with a Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) functionalized with the same material operating at 10 MHz as a part of an oscillator. Finally, they establish a link with the results obtained by an RH impedance sensor, which exploits the same active material and the same deposition technique. With this sensor technology, the conductive and electrical behavior of the sensing and adsorbed films play a role. The whole work tries to unravel the different phenomena that contribute to the response of RH sensors not only based on TiO2 nanoparticles but also, more generally, based on nanostructured metal oxide materials.
An Evaluation of the Implementation of a UK School-Based Running Program
Authors: Chalkley Anna E. , Routen Ash C. , Harris Jo P. , Cale Lorraine A. , Gorely Trish , Sherar Lauren B.
Published: September 2020

The adoption of school-based running programs has rapidly increased over the last five years in the UK and globally. However, there is currently a lack of information on how these initiatives are implemented, and whether they are generalizable and/or sustainable. This study evaluated the implementation (including reach, fidelity, and dose) of a school-based running program over seven months to inform future delivery. This observational study used a mixed-method, single-group, before-and-after design strengthened by multiple interim measurements to evaluate the implementation of an optional school-based running program. Five state-funded primary schools in Leicestershire, UK, participated, with 17 teachers and 189 (81 boys (47.4%) and 90 girls (52.6%)) Year 5 pupils (aged 9–10 years) from eight classes. During the 2016/2017 academic year, data were collected via several measures (including interviews, focus groups, observations, questionnaires, and teacher implementation logs) at multiple levels (i.e., school and individual) and at multiple time points during implementation. Follow up qualitative data were also collected during 2017/2018. The school-based running program achieved good reach, with 100% of pupils opting to participate at some point during the academic year. All schools implemented the program with good fidelity, although the level of implementation varied between schools and over time. The average number of sessions held per week ranged from 0.94–3.89 with the average distance accumulated per pupil per week ranging from 0.02 to 2.91 kilometers and boys being more likely than girls to be classed as high-level participators. Despite an initial drop off in participation over time, all schools remained engaged in the program and continued to implement it until the end of the school year. Contextual features (e.g., staff capacity and resources) differed between schools and influenced the quality of implementation and the frequency of delivery. The school-based running program is simple, inexpensive, and versatile and can be implemented by schools with relative ease. However, schools are diverse settings, with unique challenges to ongoing delivery. Thus, planned adaptations, specific to each school’s context, are likely necessary to sustain participation in the longer term and should be considered prior to implementation.
Surface Functionalization of Mesoporous Carbon for the Enhanced Removal of Strontium and Cesium Radionuclides
Authors: Hamedelniel Suliman Munzir , Nahid Siddiqui Mohammad , Basheer Chanbasha
Published: September 2020

Mesoporous carbons (MPC) and modified mesoporous carbons (MMPC) were prepared from asphalt for the adsorption of several metal ions from the aqueous solution. In this study, we investigated the adsorption efficiency of Cesium (Cs+) and Strontium (Sr2+) ions using mesoporous and modified mesoporous carbons. The optimum conditions for the removal of Cs+ and Sr2+ were at 10.0 pH, 1.00 ppm (1000.0 µg/L) concentration, 20.0 min contact time, 0.20 g/L adsorbent dose, 25.0 °C temperature with more than 95.0% removal of Cs+ and Sr2+ ions using MMPC. The limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 0.030 ppb and 10.00 ppb for Sr2+ and Cs+ metals ions, respectively, while the Limit of quantification (LOQ) was calculated to be 0.10 ppb for Sr2+ and 35.00 ppb for Cs+ metals ions. The functionalization of the MPC was performed using potassium permanganate to get MMPC, which were characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy. The nature of the X-ray diffraction peaks suggests that the MPC and MMPC carbons are amorphous and semi-crystalline materials. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transition electron microscope (TEM) studies showed the changes in the morphology due to the adsorption on the surface of the carbons. The TEM analysis clearly showed that the metal ions blocked most of the pores on the surface. The surface area, by N2 adsorption isotherm (BET), of MPC and MMPC were 937 and 667 m2·g−1, respectively. Among the adsorption isotherms, Langmuir isotherm showed the best linearity. The Langmuir isotherm indicates that the adsorption is monolayer and homogeneous with a finite number of ions. Adsorption kinetics showed better linearity with pseudo-second-order plots and obeys this order. This process indicates that the chemical interaction, such as covalent or ionic bonding, took place between the metal ions and the carbon adsorbents.
Development of a Parallel 3D Navier–Stokes Solver for Sediment Transport Calculations in Channels
Authors: Kirkil Gokhan
Published: September 2020

We propose a method to parallelize a 3D incompressible Navier–Stokes solver that uses a fully implicit fractional-step method to simulate sediment transport in prismatic channels. The governing equations are transformed into generalized curvilinear coordinates on a non-staggered grid. To develop a parallel version of the code that can run on various platforms, in particular on PC clusters, it was decided to parallelize the code using Message Passing Interface (MPI) which is one of the most flexible parallel programming libraries. Code parallelization is accomplished by “message passing” whereby the computer explicitly uses library calls to accomplish communication between the individual processors of the machine (e.g., PC cluster). As a part of the parallelization effort, besides the Navier–Stokes solver, the deformable bed module used in simulations with loose beds are also parallelized. The flow, sediment transport, and bathymetry at equilibrium conditions were computed with the parallel and serial versions of the code for the case of a 140-degree curved channel bend of rectangular section. The parallel simulation conducted on eight processors gives exactly the same results as the serial solver. The parallel version of the solver showed good scalability.
Applications of Natural, Semi-Synthetic, and Synthetic Polymers in Cosmetic Formulations
Authors: Alves Thais F. R. , Morsink Margreet , Batain Fernando , Chaud Marco V. , Almeida Taline , Fernandes Dayane A. , da Silva Classius F. , Souto Eliana B. , Severino Patricia
Published: September 2020

Cosmetics composed of synthetic and/or semi-synthetic polymers, associated or not with natural polymers, exhibit a dashing design, with thermal and chemo-sensitive properties. Cosmetic polymers are also used for the preparation of nanoparticles for the delivery of, e.g., fragrances, with the purpose to modify their release profile and also reducing the risk of evaporation. Besides, other cosmetically active nutrients, dermal permeation enhancers, have also been loaded into nanoparticles to improve their bioactivities on the skin. The use of natural polymers in cosmetic formulations is of particular relevance because of their biocompatible, safe, and eco-friendly character. These formulations are highly attractive and marketable to consumers, and are suitable for a plethora of applications, including make-up, skin, and hair care, and as modifiers and stabilizers. In this review, natural synthetic, semi-synthetic, and synthetic polymers are discussed considering their properties for cosmetic applications. Their uses in conventional and novel formulations are also presented.
First Principles Density Functional Theory Prediction of the Crystal Structure and the Elastic Properties of Mo2ZrB2 and Mo2HfB2
Authors: Touzani Rachid Stefan , Krüger Manja
Published: September 2020

The Molybdenum rich ternary alloys Mo-M-B (M = Zr, Hf) contain, next to the Mo solid solution (bcc Mo with small amounts of Zr or Hf as substitutional atoms), the binary borides Mo2B, MB and MB2. Recently, it was found that there is also ternary Mo2MB2, but the crystal structure and further properties are currently unknown. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used not only to predict the crystal structure of the Mo2MB2 phases, but also to estimate the isotropic and anisotropic elastic properties like bulk, shear and Young’s modulus, as well as the Vickers hardness of these new borides. Several known crystal structures that fulfill the criterion of the chemical composition were investigated, and the AlMn2B2 type structure seems to be the most stable crystal structure for Mo2HfB2 and Mo2ZrB2 as there are no signs of electronic or dynamic instability. Regarding the elastic properties, it was found that Mo2HfB2 shows higher elastic moduli and is less elastically anisotropic than Mo2ZrB2.
Magnetic Field-Induced Phase Transition
Authors: Matsuda Yasuhiro H.
Published: September 2020

The magnetic field controls the spin and orbital motion of electrons and can induce a phase transition through a change of the ground state [...]
Evaluation of Various Scintillator Materials in Radiation Detector Design for Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
Authors: Xie Siwei , Zhang Xi , Zhang Yibin , Ying Gaoyang , Huang Qiu , Xu Jianfeng , Peng Qiyu
Published: September 2020

The performance of radiation detectors used in positron-emission tomography (PET) is determined by the intrinsic properties of the scintillators, the geometry and surface treatment of the scintillator crystals and the electrical and optical characteristics of the photosensors. Experimental studies were performed to assess the timing resolution and energy resolution of detectors constructed with samples of different scintillator materials (LaBr3, CeBr3, LFS, LSO, LYSO: Ce, Ca and GAGG) that were fabricated into different shapes with various surface treatments. The saturation correction of SiPMs was applied for tested detectors based on a Tracepro simulation. Overall, we tested 28 pairs of different forms of scintillators to determine the one with the best CTR and light output. Two common high-performance silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) provided by SensL (J-series, 6 mm) or AdvanSiD (NUV, 6 mm) were used for photodetectors. The PET detector constructed with 6 mm CeBr3 cubes achieved the best CTR with a FWHM of 74 ps. The 4 mm co-doped LYSO: Ce, Ca pyramid crystals achieved 88.1 ps FWHM CTR. The 2 mm, 4 mm and 6 mm 0.2% Ce, 0.1% Ca co-doped LYSO cubes achieved 95.6 ps, 106 ps and 129 ps FWHM CTR, respectively. The scintillator crystals with unpolished surfaces had better timing than those with polished surfaces. The timing resolution was also improved by using certain geometric factors, such as a pyramid shape, to improve light transportation in the scintillator crystals.
Towards a Contextual Approach to Data Quality
Authors: Canali Stefano
Published: September 2020

In this commentary, I propose a framework for thinking about data quality in the context of scientific research. I start by analyzing conceptualizations of quality as a property of information, evidence and data and reviewing research in the philosophy of information, the philosophy of science and the philosophy of biomedicine. I identify a push for purpose dependency as one of the main results of this review. On this basis, I present a contextual approach to data quality in scientific research, whereby the quality of a dataset is dependent on the context of use of the dataset as much as the dataset itself. I exemplify the approach by discussing current critiques and debates of scientific quality, thus showcasing how data quality can be approached contextually.
Two-Dimensional Sampling-Recovery Algorithm of a Realization of Gaussian Processes on the Input and Output of Linear Systems
Authors: Kazakov Vladimir , Enciso Mauro A. , Mendoza Francisco
Published: September 2020

Based on the application of the conditional mean rule, a sampling-recovery algorithm is studied for a Gaussian two-dimensional process. The components of such a process are the input and output processes of an arbitrary linear system, which are characterized by their statistical relationships. Realizations are sampled in both processes, and the number and location of samples in the general case are arbitrary for each component. As a result, general expressions are found that determine the optimal structure of the recovery devices, as well as evaluate the quality of recovery of each component of the two-dimensional process. The main feature of the obtained algorithm is that the realizations of both components or one of them is recovered based on two sets of samples related to the input and output processes. This means that the recovery involves not only its own samples of the restored realization, but also the samples of the realization of another component, statistically related to the first one. This type of general algorithm is characterized by a significantly improved recovery quality, as evidenced by the results of six non-trivial examples with different versions of the algorithms. The research method used and the proposed general algorithm for the reconstruction of multidimensional Gaussian processes have not been discussed in the literature.
A Semi-Simulated RSS Fingerprint Construction for Indoor Wi-Fi Positioning
Authors: Yang Yuan , Dai Peng , Huang Haoqian , Wang Manyi , Kuang Yujin
Published: September 2020

Fingerprinting-based Wi-Fi positioning has increased in popularity due to its existing infrastructure and wide coverage. However, in the offline phase of fingerprinting positioning, the construction and maintenance of a Received Signal Strength (RSS) fingerprint database yield high labor. Moreover, the sparsity and stability of RSS fingerprinting datasets can be the most dominant error sources. This work proposes a minimally Semi-simulated RSS Fingerprinting (SS-RSS) method to generate and maintain dense fingerprints from real spatially coarse RSS acquisitions. This work simulates dense fingerprints exploring the cosine similarity of the directions to Wi-Fi access points (APs), rather than only using either a log-distance path-loss model, a quadratic polynomial fitting, or a spatial interpolation method. Real-world experiment results indicate that the semi-simulated method performs better than the coarse fingerprints and close to the real dense fingerprints. Particularly, the model of RSS measurements, the ratio of the simulated fingerprints to all fingerprints, and a two dimensions (2D) spatial distribution have been analyzed. The average positioning accuracy achieves up to 1.01 m with 66.6% of the semi-simulation ratio. The SS-RSS method offers a solution for coarse fingerprint-based positioning to perform a fine resolution without a time-consuming site-survey.
Effect of Anthropogenic Disturbance on Floristic Homogenization in the Floodplain Landscape: Insights from the Taxonomic and Functional Perspectives
Authors: Cao Yang , Natuhara Yosihiro
Published: September 2020

Anthropogenic disturbances pose significant threats to biodiversity. However, limited information has been acquired regarding the degree of impact human disturbance has on the β-diversity of plant assemblages, especially in threatened ecosystems (e.g., floodplains). In the present study, the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on plant communities of floodplain areas (the Miya River, Mie Prefecture, Japan) were analyzed. The taxonomic and functional β-diversity among different degradation levels were compared, and the differences were assessed by tests for homogeneity in multivariate dispersions. In addition, the effects of non-native species and environmental factors on β-diversity were analyzed. As revealed from the results, anthropogenic disturbance led to taxonomic homogenization at a regional scale. The increase in non-native invasions tended to improve homogenization, whereas at a low degradation level, the occurrence of non-natives species was usually related to taxonomic differentiation. Furthermore, though the increase in non-natives and environmental parameters significantly affected the β-diversity of the floodplain area, environmental factors may be of more crucial importance than biotic interactions in shaping species assemblages in this study. The previously mentioned result is likely to be dependent on the research scale and the extent to which floodplains are disturbed. Given the significant importance of floodplains, the significance of looking at floodplains in the different levels of degradation was highlighted, and both invasion of non-native species and environmental factors should be considered to gain insights into the response of ecosystems to anthropogenic disturbance. The findings of this study suggested that conservation programs in floodplain areas should place more emphasis on the preservation of natural processes and forest resources.
A Spatial Relationship between Canopy and Understory Leaf Area Index in an Old-Growth Cool-Temperate Deciduous Forest
Authors: Tanioka Yosuke , Cai Yihan , Ida Hideyuki , Hirota Mitsuru
Published: September 2020

Quantification of leaf area index (LAI) is essential for understanding forest productivity and the atmosphere–vegetation interface, where the majority of gas and energy exchange occurs. LAI is one of the most difficult plant variables to adequately quantify, owing to large spatial and temporal variability, and few studies have examined the horizontal and vertical distribution of LAI in forest ecosystems. In this study, we demonstrated the LAI distribution in each layer from the understory to canopy using multiple-point measurements (121 points) and examined the relationships among layers in a cool-temperate deciduous forest. LAI at each point, and the spatial distribution of LAI in each layer, varied within the forest. The spatial distribution of LAI in the upper layer was more heterogeneous than that of LAI at the scale of the entire forest. Significant negative correlations were observed between the upper- and lower-layer LAI. Our results indicate that the understory compensates for gaps in LAI in the upper layer; thus, the LAI of the entire forest tends to remain spatially homogeneous even in a mature forest ecosystem.
Editorial for Special Issue “Advances in Experimental and Computational Rheology, Volume II”
Authors: Cidade Maria Teresa , Nóbrega João Miguel
Published: September 2020

Rheology, defined as the science of the deformation and flow of matter, is a multidisciplinary scientific field, covering both fundamental and applied approaches [...]
Bee Bread: Physicochemical Characterization and Phenolic Content Extraction Optimization
Authors: Dranca Florina , Ursachi Florin , Oroian Mircea
Published: September 2020

Beebread or ambrosia is a unique product for humans and bees, which is the result of lactic fermentation on pollen in honeycombs. Bee bread is a rich source of nutrients (proteins, vitamins) and polyphenols (such as flavonoids, flavonols, phenolic acids). This study aimed to characterize bee bread in terms of physicochemical properties: pH, free acidity, glucose, fructose, sucrose, raffinose and melesitose content, total phenolic content (TPC), total flavones content (TFC), fatty acids and individual phenolics (gallic acid, protocatechiuc acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, caffeic acid, vanillic acid, chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, rosmarinic acid, myricetin, luteolin, quercetin and kaempferol). The main phenolic compound identified in the bee bread was kaempferol, followed by myricetin and luteolin. The TPC, TFC and extraction yield were optimized in function of ultrasonic amplitude, temperature and time and the suitable conditions for achieving the maximum level were 87.20% amplitude of ultrasonic treatment, 64.70 °C and 23.10 min, respectively for reaching 146.2 mg GAE/L of TPC, 1231.5 mg QE/g of TFC and a 5.72% extraction yield. The most abundant fatty acids were C18:3 (all-cis-9,12,15) octadeca-6,9,15-trienoic acid, followed by C16:1 (9Z)-hexadec-9-enoic acid, C21:0 heneicosanoic acid and C18:2 (all-cis-9,12) (9Z,12Z)-octadeca-9,12-dienoic acid, respectively.
Correction: Banh, J. “I Have an Accent in Every Language I Speak!”: Shadow History of One Chinese Family’s Multigenerational Transnational Migrations. Genealogy 2019, 3, 36
Authors: Banh Jenny
Published: September 2020

The author wishes to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Comparative Transcriptomics and Co-Expression Networks Reveal Tissue- and Genotype-Specific Responses of qDTYs to Reproductive-Stage Drought Stress in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Tarun Jeshurun Asher , Mauleon Ramil , Arbelaez Juan David , Catausan Sheryl , Dixit Shalabh , Kumar Arvind , Brown Patrick , Kohli Ajay , Kretzschmar Tobias
Published: September 2020

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is more sensitive to drought stress than other cereals. To dissect molecular mechanisms underlying drought-tolerant yield in rice, we applied differential expression and co-expression network approaches to transcriptomes from flag-leaf and emerging panicle tissues of a drought-tolerant yield introgression line, DTY-IL, and the recurrent parent Swarna, under moderate reproductive-stage drought stress. Protein turnover and efficient reactive oxygen species scavenging were found to be the driving factors in both tissues. In the flag-leaf, the responses further included maintenance of photosynthesis and cell wall reorganization, while in the panicle biosynthesis of secondary metabolites was found to play additional roles. Hub genes of importance in differential drought responses included an expansin in the flag-leaf and two peroxidases in the panicle. Overlaying differential expression data with allelic variation in DTY-IL quantitative trait loci allowed for the prioritization of candidate genes. They included a differentially regulated auxin-responsive protein, with DTY-IL-specific amino acid changes in conserved domains, as well as a protein kinase with a DTY-IL-specific frameshift in the C-terminal region. The approach highlights how the integration of differential expression and allelic variation can aid in the discovery of mechanism and putative causal contribution underlying quantitative trait loci for drought-tolerant yield.
A Genome-Wide Analysis of the Pentatricopeptide Repeat (PPR) Gene Family and PPR-Derived Markers for Flesh Color in Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)
Authors: Subburaj Saminathan , Tu Luhua , Lee Kayoun , Park Gwang-Soo , Lee Hyunbae , Chun Jong-Pil , Lim Yong-Pyo , Park Min-Woo , McGregor Cecilia , Lee Geung-Joo
Published: September 2020

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is an economically important fruit crop grown for consumption of its large edible fruit flesh. Pentatricopeptide-repeat (PPR) encoding genes, one of the large gene families in plants, are important RNA-binding proteins involved in the regulation of plant growth and development by influencing the expression of organellar mRNA transcripts. However, systematic information regarding the PPR gene family in watermelon remains largely unknown. In this comprehensive study, we identified and characterized a total of 422 C. lanatus PPR (ClaPPR) genes in the watermelon genome. Most ClaPPRs were intronless and were mapped across 12 chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis showed that ClaPPR proteins could be divided into P and PLS subfamilies. Gene duplication analysis suggested that 11 pairs of segmentally duplicated genes existed. In-silico expression pattern analysis demonstrated that ClaPPRs may participate in the regulation of fruit development and ripening processes. Genotyping of 70 lines using 4 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 4 ClaPPRs resulted in match rates of over 0.87 for each validated SNPs in correlation with the unique phenotypes of flesh color, and could be used in differentiating red, yellow, or orange watermelons in breeding programs. Our results provide significant insights for a comprehensive understanding of PPR genes and recommend further studies on their roles in watermelon fruit growth and ripening, which could be utilized for cultivar development of watermelon.
Proteomics Reveals Distinct Changes Associated with Increased Gamma Radiation Resistance in the Black Yeast Exophiala dermatitidis
Authors: Schultzhaus Zachary , Schultzhaus Janna , Romsdahl Jillian , Chen Amy , Hervey IV W. , Leary Dagmar , Wang Zheng
Published: September 2020

The yeast Exophiala dermatitidis exhibits high resistance to γ-radiation in comparison to many other fungi. Several aspects of this phenotype have been characterized, including its dependence on homologous recombination for the repair of radiation-induced DNA damage, and the transcriptomic response invoked by acute γ-radiation exposure in this organism. However, these findings have yet to identify unique γ-radiation exposure survival strategies—many genes that are induced by γ-radiation exposure do not appear to be important for recovery, and the homologous recombination machinery of this organism is not unique compared to more sensitive species. To identify features associated with γ-radiation resistance, here we characterized the proteomes of two E. dermatitidis strains—the wild type and a hyper-resistant strain developed through adaptive laboratory evolution—before and after γ-radiation exposure. The results demonstrate that protein intensities do not change substantially in response to this stress. Rather, the increased resistance exhibited by the evolved strain may be due in part to increased basal levels of single-stranded binding proteins and a large increase in ribosomal content, possibly allowing for a more robust, induced response during recovery. This experiment provides evidence enabling us to focus on DNA replication, protein production, and ribosome levels for further studies into the mechanism of γ-radiation resistance in E. dermatitidis and other fungi.
Enablers and Barriers of a Cross-Cultural Geriatric Education Distance Training Programme: The Singapore-Uganda Experience
Authors: Ha Ngoc Huong Lien , Chua Xin Ying , Musimenta Shallon , Akankwasa Edith , Pussayapibul Nongluck , Toh Hui Jin , Ginting Mimaika Luluina , Samarasekera Dujeepa D. , Tam Wai Jia , Yap Philip Lin Kiat , Low James Alvin Yiew Hock
Published: September 2020

Background: By 2050, 80% of the world’s older population will reside in developing countries. There is a need for culturally appropriate training programs to increase awareness of eldercare issues, promote knowledge of how to better allocate resources to geriatric services, and promulgate elder-friendly policies. A monthly distance geriatric education programme between a public hospital in Singapore and health institute in Uganda was implemented. This study explored the enablers and barriers to the delivery of culturally appropriate geriatric education programmes via a videoconferencing platform. Methods: We conducted 12 in-depth interviews with six teachers from Singapore and six learners from Uganda. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analyzed using an inductive thematic approach to analysis with the aid of the NVivo software. Results: Enablers included inter-personal real-time interactions between teachers and learners whereas misaligned perceptions of cross-cultural differences between Singaporean teachers and Ugandan learners were a barrier. Rapport building, teacher motivation and institutional support were perceived to contribute to the programme’s sustainability. Overall, Ugandan learners perceived that the training improved knowledge, skills, attitude and practice of geriatric care. Participants suggested that future initiatives consider aligning cross-cultural perceptions between partners, conducting a training needs analysis, exploring complementary modes of information dissemination, and allotting time for more interaction, thereby reinforcing mutual sharing. Adequate publicity and appropriate incentivisation may also better sustain the programme. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that cross-cultural training via a videoconferencing platform was feasible. Our results inform planners of future distance educational programmes of how to improve standards of cross-cultural competency and forge promising international partnerships.
Effects of Music Therapy on Patients with Dementia—A Systematic Review
Authors: Lam Hei Long , Li Wai Tak Victor , Laher Ismail , Wong Roger Y.
Published: September 2020

Dementia is an increasingly common syndrome and while pharmacotherapy is available, its potential benefit is limited, especially in non-cognitive outcomes. Non-pharmacotherapy such as music therapy is potentially associated with improved outcomes. We assessed the effects of music therapy on patients with dementia to evaluate its potential benefits on dementia. Two independent reviewers searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases for clinical trials, using the keywords “music therapy” and “dementia”. Study outcomes included cognitive function, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), and quality of life. A total of 82 studies were included, of which 43 were interventional clinical trials, and 39 were systematic reviews or meta-analyses. Significant improvements in verbal fluency occurred after music therapy, with significant reductions in anxiety, depression, and apathy. There were no significant improvements in cognition or daily functioning, and the results on quality of life and agitation were ambiguous. Limitations of studies included low patient numbers, lack of standardized music therapy, and high heterogeneity in outcomes. More large-scale clinical trials would allow for clearer conclusions on the benefits of music therapy in patients with dementia.
Salivary Cytokine Profile as a Possible Predictor of Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Samborska-Mazur Joanna , Kostiukow Anna , Miechowicz Izabela , Sikorska Dorota , Rutkowski Rafał , Wyganowska-Świątkowska Marzena , Błochowiak Katarzyna
Published: September 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by neurodevelopmental disorders and alterations in immune function and cytokine levels. The aim of this study is to determine the salivary levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), Regulated on Activation, Normal T-cell Expressed and Secreted (RANTES), and Eotaxin in children with ASD and in healthy controlsto assess their predictive potential. We explored correlations between the cytokine levels and the neurodevelopmental disorders related to ASD. The study comprised 19 children with ASD and 19 typically developing (TD) ones. We analyzed salivary levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNFα, MCP-1, RANTES, and eotaxin on Luminex with custom-designed 7-plex kits. The level of RANTES in ASD children was significantly lower than those of TD. In TDs, the salivary levels of IL-1β, MCP-1, and TNFα correlated positively with age. In ASD, the cytokine levels did not correlate with age. There were statistically significant differences between the RANTES level and aggression and gait disturbances, between IL-8 level and fixations/stimulations, and between IL-1β level and no active speech. The levels of the cytokine detected can manifest both systemic and local changes related to ASD. The cytokine pattern cannot be used as a sole ASD predictor, but the salivary levels may be helpful in categorizing the ASD subtype.
An Innovative Approach for Restoring the Mechanical Properties of Thermoplastic-Matrix Nanocomposite by the Use of Partially Polymerized Cyclic Butylene Terephthalate
Authors: Ferrari Francesca , Greco Antonio
Published: September 2020

This work is focused on the production of a smart material from cyclic butylene-terephthalate (CBT), characterized by the built-in capability to recover its damage, through the catalyzed ring opening polymerization (ROP) of its oligomers; in particular, molten CBT, after filling the damaged zone, can be converted into poly-butylene terephthalate (PBT), thus promoting a join of the broken surfaces and fixing the crack. To obtain a material with self-healing potential, the production of a partially polymerized system is required. For this purpose, two solutions were studied: the first one involved the use of two catalysts with different activation times, whereas the second solution implied the intercalation of the faster catalyst inside the nanoclay lamellae. Since the intercalation allowed slowing the activation of the catalyst, residual CBT can be converted in a second step. Mechanical properties of partially reacted PBT samples and their healing ability were checked by flexural analyses; in order to promote the healing process, samples were notched to simulate partial damage and left in oven for different times and temperatures, to allow the activation of the unreacted catalyst with the consequent ROP of the residual CBT; flexural tests on samples after healing showed a good recovery of mechanical properties.
Determination of Stent Load Conditions in New Zealand White Rabbit Urethra
Authors: Mackiewicz Agnieszka G. , Klekiel Tomasz , Kurowiak Jagoda , Piasecki Tomasz , Bedzinski Romuald
Published: September 2020

Background: Frequency of urethral stenosis makes it necessary to develop new innovative methods of treating this disease. This pathology most often occurs in men and manifests itself in painful urination, reduced urine flow, or total urinary retention. This is a condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Methods: Experimental tests were carried out on a rabbit in order to determine the changes of pressure in the urethra system and to estimate the velocity of urine flow. For this purpose, a measuring system was proposed to measure the pressure of a fluid-filled urethra. A fluoroscope was used to observe the deformability of the bladder and urethra canal. Results: Based on these tests, the range of changes in the urethra tube diameter, the pressures inside the system, and the flow velocity during micturition were determined. Conclusions: The presented studies allowed determining the behavior of the urethra under the conditions of urinary filling. The fluid-filled bladder and urethra increased their dimensions significantly. Such large changes require that the stents used for the treatment of urethral stenosis should not have a fixed diameter but should adapt to changing urethral dimensions.
Recent Advances of Conducting Polymers and Their Composites for Electrochemical Biosensing Applications
Authors: Luong John H. T. , Narayan Tarun , Solanki Shipra , Malhotra Bansi D.
Published: September 2020

Conducting polymers (CPs) have been at the center of research owing to their metal-like electrochemical properties and polymer-like dispersion nature. CPs and their composites serve as ideal functional materials for diversified biomedical applications like drug delivery, tissue engineering, and diagnostics. There have also been numerous biosensing platforms based on polyaniline (PANI), polypyrrole (PPY), polythiophene (PTP), and their composites. Based on their unique properties and extensive use in biosensing matrices, updated information on novel CPs and their role is appealing. This review focuses on the properties and performance of biosensing matrices based on CPs reported in the last three years. The salient features of CPs like PANI, PPY, PTP, and their composites with nanoparticles, carbon materials, etc. are outlined along with respective examples. A description of mediator conjugated biosensor designs and enzymeless CPs based glucose sensing has also been included. The future research trends with required improvements to improve the analytical performance of CP-biosensing devices have also been addressed.