bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HLA expression levels of unstimulated and cytokine stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Carey B. Sean , Poulton Kay V. , Poles Anthony
Published: January 2020

Transplant rejection occurs following recipient recognition of mismatched HLA on donor tissue, but active rejection is dependent not only upon the severity of the T cell or alloantibody response, but also upon the cell surface expression of target HLA molecules. To investigate the variation in HLA expression using a model of endothelium, human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) cultures were generated from 48 umbilical cords donated consecutively following planned caesarean section. HUVECs were stimulated using the cytokines tumour necrosis factor alpha and interferon gamma and HLA expression of unstimulated and stimulated cells determined using flow cytometry. HLA‐A2, HLA‐A3 and HLA‐C antigens all showed a modest increase in expression for 12 hours post cell activation, followed by a more pronounced response over the next 24 to 36 hours. Each of these antigens increased by up to 40 times over unstimulated levels and in addition cells homozygous for specific HLA antigens on average had twice the amount of antigen expressed compared with cells heterozygous for that antigen, both when unstimulated and following cytokine stimulation. Cell activation is an important consideration in the assessment of transplant risk and may help progress towards understanding why rejection does not always occur in the presence of significant donor specific antibody. This data also confirms guidelines for transplantation, which recommend doubling the specific antibody level when considering immunological risk for homozygous donors.
Identification of the novel HLA‐A*02 allele, HLA‐A*02:725
Authors: Wang Fang , Wang Li. , Zhang Wei. , He Ji , Zhu Faming
Published: January 2020

The new allele HLA‐A*02:725 showed one nucleotide difference with A*02:06:01:01 at position 104(C>T).
Characterization of HLA‐A*01:302 in two Spanish individuals by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Iriarte‐Gahete Marianela , García‐Cuesta Daniel , Mena‐Llamas Inmaculada , Pérez‐Guerrero María Dolores , Nieto Antonio
Published: January 2020

HLA‐A*01:302 was likely generated by intralocus conversion between an A*01:01:01 allele and an A*29 allele.
Characterization of two novel HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01 variants, identified in Brazilian individuals
Authors: Vianna Romulo , Turner Thomas , Georgiou Xenia , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: January 2020

Characterization of two novel HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01 variants, HLA‐DQB1*06:02:01:05 and ‐DQB1*06:02:01:06.
Characterization of an alkylresorcinol synthase that forms phenolics accumulating in the cuticular wax on various organs of rye (Secale cereale)
Authors: Sun Yulin , Yao Ruonan , Ji Xiufeng , Wu Hongqi , Luna Alvaro , Wang Zhonghua , Jetter Reinhard
Published: January 2020

Alkylresorcinols are bioactive compounds produced in diverse plant species, with chemical structures combining an aliphatic hydrocarbon chain and an aromatic ring with characteristic hydroxyl substituents. Here, we aimed to isolate and characterize the enzyme that forms the alkylresorcinols accumulating in the cuticular wax on the surface of all above‐ground organs of rye. Based on sequence homology with other type‐III polyketide synthases, a candidate alkylresorcinol synthase was cloned. Yeast heterologous expression showed that the enzyme, ScARS, is highly specific for the formation of the aromatic resorcinol ring structure, through aldol condensation analogous to stilbene synthases. The enzyme accepts long‐chain and very‐long‐chain acyl‐CoA starter substrates, preferring saturated over unsaturated chains. It typically carries out three rounds of condensation with malonyl‐CoA prior to cyclization, with only very minor activity for a fourth round of malonyl‐CoA condensation and cyclization to 5‐(2′‐oxo)‐alkylresorcinols or 5‐(2′‐hydroxy)‐alkylresorcinols. Like other enzymes involved in cuticle formation, ScARS is localized to the endoplasmic reticulum. ScARS expression patterns were found correlated with alkylresorcinol accumulation during leaf development and across different rye organs. Overall, our results thus suggest that ScARS synthesizes the cuticular alkylresorcinols found on diverse rye organ surfaces.
Satellite DNA landscapes after allotetraploidization of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) reveal unique A and B subgenomes
Authors: Heitkam Tony , Weber Beatrice , Walter Ines , Liedtke Susan , Ost Charlotte , Schmidt Thomas
Published: January 2020

If two related plant species hybridize, their genomes may be combined and duplicated within a single nucleus, thereby forming an allotetraploid. How the emerging plant balances two co‐evolved genomes is still a matter of ongoing research. Here, we focus on satellite DNA (satDNA), the fastest turn‐over sequence class in eukaryotes, aiming to trace its emergence, amplification, and loss during plant speciation and allopolyploidization. As a model, we used Chenopodium quinoa Willd. (quinoa), an allopolyploid crop with 2n = 4x = 36 chromosomes. Quinoa originated by hybridization of an unknown female American Chenopodium diploid (AA genome) with an unknown male Old World diploid species (BB genome), dating back 3.3–6.3 million years. Applying short read clustering to quinoa (AABB), C. pallidicaule (AA), and C. suecicum (BB) whole genome shotgun sequences, we classified their repetitive fractions, and identified and characterized seven satDNA families, together with the 5S rDNA model repeat. We show unequal satDNA amplification (two families) and exclusive occurrence (four families) in the AA and BB diploids by read mapping as well as Southern, genomic, and fluorescent in situ hybridization. Whereas the satDNA distributions support C. suecicum as possible parental species, we were able to exclude C. pallidicaule as progenitor due to unique repeat profiles. Using quinoa long reads and scaffolds, we detected only limited evidence of intergenomic homogenization of satDNA after allopolyploidization, but were able to exclude dispersal of 5S rRNA genes between subgenomes. Our results exemplify the complex route of tandem repeat evolution through Chenopodium speciation and allopolyploidization, and may provide sequence targets for the identification of quinoa's progenitors.
Global impact of loss of confidence in Asian emerging markets
Authors: Fernando Roshen
Published: January 2020

With the interest rate hike in the US and, more recently, in the UK, sudden stops in investments and capital reversals are apparent in the Asian emerging economies. A modelling approach is taken, using the G‐Cubed model, to simulate the potential global economic impacts, with a focus on Asia. The results demonstrate that myopic fiscal interventions in Asian emerging economies could result in short‐term stimulus, at the expense of long‐term growth. The stimulus in advanced economies too would be short‐lived, diverting the benefits to unintended fractions in the global economy. Advanced economies that minimally change their trade and investment patterns tend to avoid distortionary impacts of the crisis.
Trade shocks, product mix adjustment and productivity growth in Italian manufacturing
Authors: Ladu Maria Gabriela , Linarello Andrea , Oropallo Filippo
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we use firm‐level data on the universe of Italian manufacturing multi‐product exporters to test whether demand shocks in export markets lead multi‐product exporters to increase their productivity. The main mechanism behind the documented productivity gains is the reallocation of resources across products within firms (American Economic Review, 104, 2014 and 495; National Bureau of Economic Research Working Paper Series No. 22433, 2016). Intuitively, the increased demand stemming from foreign markets will induce firms to adjust their product mix by moving inputs from low to high productive/profitable uses. We find that these productivity gains are significant and can explain between 1/10 and 1/2 of aggregate productivity growth in the manufacturing sector.
Ready to export? The role of export readiness for superior export performance of small and medium‐sized enterprises
Authors: Gerschewski Stephan , Scott‐Kennel Joanna , Rose Elizabeth L.
Published: January 2020

Drawing on the entrepreneurship perspective and the network‐based view on internationalisation, this exploratory study contributes to our understanding of why some exporters succeed while others do not, through an empirical examination of export readiness factors. The paper provides an operationalisation of export readiness for small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Based on a sample of 96 New Zealand SMEs, we find that export readiness is a complex construct involving finance, trade and exchange, and marketing. The study provides evidence that internal export stimuli are important antecedents of export readiness, while factors traditionally assumed to be critical to export success, such as importing and pre‐export domestic expansion, may not be prerequisites to being export‐ready. Finally, the study examines the link between export readiness and subsequent, initial export performance and finds a strong, positive relationship. Our study contributes to the export literature by providing a deeper and more integrated understanding of the antecedents of export readiness in a small, open economy, and its implications for subsequent export performance.
Services trade and credit frictions: Evidence with matched bank–firm data
Authors: Bripi Francesco , Loschiavo David , Revelli Davide
Published: January 2020

The effects of credit supply shocks on the exports of services are not clear a priori. On the one hand, services need lower initial investment in physical capital than manufacturing. On the other hand, competitiveness for exporting services requires investments in intangible capital and in product customisation that may be subject to credit frictions. Using Italian matched bank–firm data and focusing on the sovereign debt crisis, we find an elasticity of services exports to credit supply, between 0.3 and 0.4. The effects of credit shocks are especially relevant for firms exporting complex services to countries with weaker institutions and for services that are not the main product of the firms. Overall, our results suggest that credit supply plays a relevant role for exporting services during crises.
Increasing market power in Slovenia: Role of diverging trends between exporters and non‐exporters
Authors: Damijan Joze , Konings Jozef , Yergabulova Aigerim
Published: January 2020

This paper documents the evolution of markups in a small open economy, Slovenia, using a comprehensive data set covering the full population of firms. It makes three novel contributions to the literature. First, in contrast to other work for Europe, we find that markups have increased from 1.05 to 1.19 between 1994 and 2015. Second, while other research so far found exporters typically to have higher markups, we find the opposite in Slovenia. Though the rise in markups occurs both with exporters and non‐exporters, there is a consistent diverging trend in markups in favour of non‐exporters since 1999. This can be attributed to increased competitive pressure faced by exporters following the comprehensive trade liberalisation after 1999 and their increased participation in global value chains. Third, we decompose aggregate markups and show that the increase in markups, for both exporters and non‐exporters, is mainly driven by the within component rather than the reallocation effect. This suggests that all firms were increasing their markups, rather than high‐markup firms increasing their market share over time.
What makes a successful exporter? An introduction
Authors: Castellani Davide , Damijan Jože , Kostevc Črt
Published: January 2020

The papers in this issue continue with the tradition of adding puzzles pieces to the overall picture of the impact and importance of firm international activities. In "What makes a successful exporter?", we have collected twelve papers, the majority of which were presented at the 13th annual ISGEP workshop in Ljubljana, Slovenia on 20–21 September 2018. The common thread linking these papers is that they explore both what it means to be an exporter and the ramifications of exporting on firms and the economy as a whole. On the one hand, this special issue addresses the role of foreign sourcing, export experience in the board of directors and credit supply shocks on the propensity to export, as well as the factors that affect firms' overall readiness to export. On the other hand, it investigates various measures of performance in the export markets, such as export duration, markups, quality upgrading and product mix.
Diagnostic tenoscopy of the carpal sheath with a needle arthroscope in standing sedated horses
Authors: Miagkoff Ludovic , Bonilla Alvaro G.
Published: January 2020

Objective

To investigate the use of a needle arthroscope for diagnostic tenoscopy of the carpal sheath in standing horses.

Study design

Experimental study.

Sample population

Six forelimbs for the cadaveric part of the study and six horses for the in vivo part of the study.

Methods

Six cadaveric limbs were used to perform carpal sheath tenoscopy with a 1.2‐mm‐diameter needle arthroscope (65 and 100 mm long), followed by tenoscopy with a 4‐mm arthroscope through a standard proximolateral approach. Then, unilateral standing carpal sheath tenoscopy was performed in six healthy sedated horses with a 65‐mm‐long needle arthroscope. Limbs were maintained in flexion during the procedure by using a custom‐made splint and base. Degree of tenoscopic evaluation, safety, horse tolerance, and complications were recorded.

Results

Visibility at the most distal aspect of the sheath was absent for the needle arthroscopes vs a standard arthroscope. The maneuverability with a 65‐mm needle arthroscope was excellent and allowed exhaustive visualization of the proximal region of the carpal sheath in cadaveric limbs and standing horses (six of six). However, visualization of the intertendinous recess was partial in most horses (four of six) vs cadavers (complete in six of six) because of remaining flexor tendon tension in standing horses. No major complications were encountered.

Conclusion

Standing carpal sheath tenoscopy allowed a safe and thorough evaluation of most structures in the proximal region of the sheath and offers an alternative diagnostic technique.

Clinical significance

Horses with unrewarding results after traditional imaging or that require an accurate diagnosis before treatment may benefit from this alternative procedure.
HIV-related Peer Support in Dar es Salaam: A Pilot Questionnaire Inquiry
Authors: Kiekens Anneleen , Dehens Joram , de Hemptinne Maud , Galouchka Michaël , Vanhoorebeeck Cedric , van Otzel Reinier Petrus , Wyszkowska Magorzata , Baert Saar , Bernard Edwin J , Blanco Jorge Ricardo Nova , Dierckx Tim , Mosha Fausta , Sangeda Raphael Zozimus , Theys Kristof , Van den Eede Astrid , Jordan Michael R , Vandamme Anne-Mieke
Published: January 2020

Abstract HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) in Tanzania is a complex problem with many interconnected causes. Some important factors contributing to the selection of drug resistant viruses in people infected with HIV are stigma, poverty, poor health, illiteracy, and insufficient
adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Several studies have suggested the implementation of peer support groups as a way to shift the workload associated with adherence support, antiretroviral therapy (ART) distribution, and HIV education away from the doctors to the people living with HIV (PLHIV)
themselves. We conducted interviews with local PLHIV to investigate the desirability and feasibility of a peer support group in the Pasada and Kisarawe hospitals in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. A standardized questionnaire was completed by 27 PLHIV in July and August 2017 at the time of a follow-up
visit. In this cohort, major causes for missing a dose of ART are lack of support from family and friends and forgetfulness. Reasons for wanting to join a peer support group include psychological support, fighting stigma, and increasing education
about their disease. Interestingly, several respondents linked HIV peer support to business support groups such as village community banks (VICOBA). These are informal microfinance groups meant to offer economic stability to individuals. As this link was made by PLHIV themselves, we suggest
that it may be worthwhile to explore mixed financial and HIV peer support groups in which HIV education is provided for both HIV positive and negative members. Such groups may reduce the risk of infection and stigma and provide combined psychological, financial, and logistic support to PLHIV.
Stimulating Informed Decisions in Prenatal Screening: Exploring Initiatives to Aid Parental Decision-Making
Authors: Claesen Zoë , Barilla Laura , Diepvens Charlot , Mensink Eva , Meijer Job , van Uffelen Nynke , Zenner Eline
Published: January 2020

Abstract Informed decisions concerning non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) seem contingent on health professionals and expectant parents (1) having access to multifaceted information about the procedure of NIPT and the subsequent choices; and (2) actively reflecting about
what prenatal screening means beyond the medical level (including personal values and beliefs). International studies show that many pregnant women do not make informed decisions about prenatal testing (Beulen et al. 2016). Interviews we conducted with various stakeholders in Belgium show
similar tendencies.Based on transdisciplinary research (Dehens et al. 2017)—which included stakeholder interviews, and a review of academic literature, current prenatal screening guidelines, and good practices—we propose three initiatives that can help stimulate informed choices.
The initiatives are: (1) a decision aid that encourages expectant parents to think about NIPT, its possible outcomes, and the conditions NIPT screens for (see e.g. Smith et al. 2018; Carslon et al. 2019); (2) the creation of a nation-wide protocol (draaiboek) for prenatal screening
outlining what information should be provided at what point during a pregnancy, in what way, and by whom (see for instance the Draaiboek Prenatale screening down-, edwards- en patausyndroom en structureel echoscopisch onderzoek versie 9.0 in the Netherlands); and (3) an online platform
featuring a balanced representation of testimonials about various experiences with the main conditions NIPT screens for taking Braverman (2008) as a starting point. These initiatives were discussed (conceptually) at a round table discussion with a broad range of stakeholders (May 8, 2019).
A concluding poll showed a strong consensus concerning the need to develop a prenatal screening protocol and a decision aid in order to help health professionals and expectant parents, navigate through prenatal screening programs in Belgium.
Anticipating the widening scope of genetic tests, a general plan of action is necessary to ensure counseling possibilities and informed decisions.
Proposing a Case Study Combining Transdisciplinary and Data-Centered Methods for Understanding Complex Problems in an Educational Context
Authors: Herrmann Jennifer Clara , Van Wesemael Tim , Caralp Hervé , Nova Blanco Jorge Ricardo
Published: January 2020

Abstract In this opinion piece we argue for combining data-centered hackathons with transdisciplinarity to better understand wicked problems such as food insecurity. Hackathons represent unique opportunities for answering previously identified and consequently well-defined
questions in the context of high-dimensional data. However, the possibilities for providing participants with extensive and potentially quintessential background knowledge and for enabling them to develop a shared understanding of the explicit and implicit meanings of variables associated
with the respective problem are limited. Thus, the inherently difficult step of deriving realistic strategic implications from provided or otherwise available data is further aggravated. In the context of this evident void, a format combining transdisciplinary and data-driven approaches could
represent a promising approach. Thereby, quantitative and preferably unbiased and qualitative, concept-centered analyses could be paralleled, which would enable the synergistic and incremental understanding of both the relationships between model variables and the meaning of those variables
themselves. Furthermore, transdisciplinary approaches are fundamentally stakeholder-focused. The aforementioned approach not only could thus support the development of strategic recommendations concerning the chosen problem, but also facilitates stakeholder engagement, which is central to
ensuring that proposed strategies are realistic, implementable, and accepted. Food insecurity represents a prime example of a complex, multidimensional problem of extreme urgency. Besides the availability of a myriad of data relating to several aspects of food insecurity, including data on
transport networks, food policy decisions, and climate change, grasping the phenomenon of food insecurity in its entirety remains challenging. Given its relevance and complexity and the amount of related data available, food insecurity represents
an ideal challenge for exploring the feasibility of combining data-driven and transdisciplinary approaches. Therefore, during the 2018‐2019 academic year, a group of students organized a hackathon around food insecurity and drew inspiration from that hackathon to write a challenge document
to be taken up during the ‘Transdisciplinary Insights’ Honours Programme of the 2019‐2020 academic year.
Designing Future Perspectives for Dairy Farming in Flanders
Authors: Coetzer Johan , Munster Ben , Van Outrive Nicklas Andres Quirós , Torres Ojeda Disnelly Daniela , Vanbiervliet Yuri , Van den Heuvel Andries , Windey Björn , Van Werde Alexander , Nova Blanco Jorge Ricardo , Monden Katrien , Snijders Eva
Published: January 2020

Abstract This paper provides insight into perspectives for the desirable future of the Flemish dairy industry in twenty years. Globally, the dairy farming sector is facing numerous challenges, from encountering environmental barriers to economic uncertainty, growing consumer
awareness and increased availability of technology, bringing both opportunities and threats to the sector.The dairy industry in Flanders is potentially reaching a threshold where changes in production methods are essential to overcome the aforementioned challenges. With such complex challenges
it is essential to include different perspectives. Therefore, we created a transdisciplinary team where all members have different backgrounds, supported by coaches and specialists.The assumptions on the dairy industry were investigated through literature, stakeholders’ interviews,
and farm visits. From these insights a system map was developed with the intention to develop futures through observing megatrends, trends, and novelties. We imagined the most optimal future around social and planetarian boundaries for some
diverse personas, which helped to understand the complexity of future patterns and highlighted topics that needed more in-depth research. Five main topics of the current situation and the desirable futures were discussed: (i) Environmental impact of the dairy sector; (ii) Big and Small farms;
(iii) Health and how ‘the planetary diet’ can be healthier while saving the planet; (iv) Consumer Behavior; and (v) Government Policy. As a result, the future personas are described as motivating why certain perspectives are desirable; perspective from a farmer with a small farm
and one with a larger farm. These perspectives could inspire the co-creation of a sustainable future, involving consumers, farmers, as well as industries and policy makers.
How to Move Towards a Common Understanding of Progress? A Transdisciplinary Exercise Involving 10 Young Researchers
Authors: Kiekens Anneleen , Rongé Jan , Eynde Sarah Van , Cleymans Sam , Daems Dries , Ridder Bram De , Despeghel Jolien , Moonen Pieter , Ovaere Marten , Smeets Niels
Published: January 2020

Abstract Early career (doctoral and postdoctoral) researchers often lack experience with transdisciplinary research despite their interest in tackling societal challenges with colleagues. Engagement in transdisciplinary research may not be an obvious choice because of limited
support from their academic environment, difficulties of publishing, or a lack of suitable methods. In this work, we focus on the last. In order to evaluate several possible methodologies, we brought together a group of 10 young researchers from various disciplines to consider the question
‘What is progress?’. They examined this question via essay writing, a workshop, and a full-day colloquium, using methods that were based on examples from literature. After this process, input from the participants was gathered by means of a survey. Here, we provide an evaluation
of existing methods and introduce four new methods: orientation exercise, census, individual reflection, walking consensus. Our results show that such a transdisciplinary exercise can readily be performed by a group of young researchers if the process is methodologically well structured, opening
up opportunities for integrating such transdisciplinary insights in early career research.
Glutamate receptors from diverse animal species exhibit unexpected structural and functional diversity
Authors: Mayer Mark L.
Published: January 2020

The identification of AMPA, kainate and NMDA glutamate receptor subtypes by Watkins and colleagues underlies much of our understanding of excitatory synaptic transmission in the central nervous system of animals. Ongoing large scale genome sequencing projects in species for which physiological analysis of receptor function is challenging are resulting in identification of numerous eukaryotic glutamate receptor ion channels in the animal kingdom of life. On the basis of sequence similarity, these are frequently classified into the three vertebrate subtypes, initially identified using subtype selective ligands. Recent work reveals unexpected ligand binding profiles for these newly identified glutamate receptors, for example, kainate receptors on which NMDA acts as a competitive antagonist, and high affinity homomeric glycine activated glutamate receptors. Structural studies reveal that only subtle changes in the ligand binding domain, often identified only in retrospect, underlie different patterns of ligand binding, and that the biology of glutamate receptors is more complex than first anticipated.

image
Joystick Steering in Recreational Boats Using L1 Adaptive Control
Authors: Bayless John A. , Voglewede Phillip A.
Published: January 2020

This paper addresses the challenge of commissioning recreational boats with joystick control systems when the boat's physical parameters are not known. The work was conducted through matlab simulations and scale-model physical testing. The outcome is a working nonlinear, closed-loop control methodology shown on a small-scale prototype boat. The control methodology, L1 adaptive control (L1AC), provides adaptive velocity and angular velocity control. The control system delivers performance levels that could reduce the cost of commissioning boats with joystick control, improve overall performance, and potentially enable the technology to support new boat markets.
Estimation of Anisotropic Material Properties of Soft Tissue by MRI of Ultrasound-Induced Shear Waves
Authors: Guertler Charlotte A. , Okamoto Ruth J. , Ireland Jake A. , Pacia Christopher P. , Garbow Joel R. , Chen Hong , Bayly Philip V.
Published: January 2020

This paper describes a new method for estimating anisotropic mechanical properties of fibrous soft tissue by imaging shear waves induced by focused ultrasound (FUS) and analyzing their direction-dependent speeds. Fibrous materials with a single, dominant fiber direction may exhibit anisotropy in both shear and tensile moduli, reflecting differences in the response of the material when loads are applied in different directions. The speeds of shear waves in such materials depend on the propagation and polarization directions of the waves relative to the dominant fiber direction. In this study, shear waves were induced in muscle tissue (chicken breast) ex vivo by harmonically oscillating the amplitude of an ultrasound beam focused in a cylindrical tissue sample. The orientation of the fiber direction relative to the excitation direction was varied by rotating the sample. Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) was used to visualize and measure the full 3D displacement field due to the ultrasound-induced shear waves. The phase gradient (PG) of radially propagating “slow” and “fast” shear waves provided local estimates of their respective wave speeds and directions. The equations for the speeds of these waves in an incompressible, transversely isotropic (TI), linear elastic material were fitted to measurements to estimate the shear and tensile moduli of the material. The combination of focused ultrasound and MR imaging allows noninvasive, but comprehensive, characterization of anisotropic soft tissue.
“I Just Like the Feeling of It, Outside Being Active”: Pupils’ Experiences of a School-Based Running Program, a Qualitative Study
Authors: Chalkley Anna E. , Routen Ash C. , Harris Jo P. , Cale Lorraine A. , Gorely Trish , Sherar Lauren B.
Published: January 2020

Introduction: School-based running programs that promote daily (or regular) walking/jogging/running are an emerging public health initiative. However, evaluation of these programs has predominantly used quantitative measures that limit understanding and explanations of contextual influences on pupil participation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to qualitatively explore pupils’ experiences of participating in a primary-school-based running program (Marathon Kids) to provide relevant insights and inform program developments. Methods: Nine semistructured focus groups were conducted with a purposeful sample of 50 pupils (26 girls and 24 boys) between 6 and 10 years of age from 5 primary schools in England. All schools had delivered the running program for 5–9 months during the 2015–16 academic year. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive thematic approach. Results: Pupils identified a range of organizational, interpersonal, and intrapersonal factors that they believed influenced their participation in the program. Six themes were identified as being important to pupils’ experiences: Marathon Kids as an enabling program, pupils’ autonomy to participate, peer influence on participation (e.g., development of social cohesion), teacher influence on delivery (e.g., fidelity of implementation), logistics and suitability of the school environment, and appropriateness of program resources. Conclusions: School-based running programs can offer an enjoyable physical activity experience for children; however, it is important to understand how current delivery approaches influence pupils’ participation. Aspects that were believed to facilitate enjoyment included pupil autonomy to participate, perceived benefits of participation (including psychosocial outcomes), and a supportive school environment. Further research is required to identify the type and level of support required by schools to sustain pupil participation in running programs so that their perceived value is maintained.
Effect of Time and Direction Preparation on Ankle Muscle Response During Backward Translation of a Support Surface in Stance
Authors: Matsuoka Masakazu , Kunimura Hiroshi , Hiraoka Koichi
Published: January 2020

This study investigated the effect of the time and direction preparation on the electromyographic (EMG) response of the ankle extensor to the backward translation of the support surface in stance. Fifteen healthy adult males aged 35.9 ± 6.2 years participated in this study. In the constant session, the interval between the warning cue and the onset of the backward support surface translation was constant. In the random time session, the interval was randomly assigned in each trial, but the direction was backward across the trials. In the random direction session, the direction was randomly assigned in each trial, but the interval was constant. The EMG amplitude in the time epochs 100–175 ms after translation onset in the random time session was significantly greater than that in the constant session in the soleus, gastrocnemius, and tibialis anterior muscles. The EMG amplitude in the time epochs 120–185 ms after translation onset in the random direction session was significantly greater than that in the constant session in the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles. This finding indicates that time and direction preparation reduces the late component of the ankle EMG response to backward translation of the support surface. This finding is explained by the supposed process through which uncertainty of the upcoming event causes disinhibition of response or by how time and direction preparation optimizes the magnitude of the long-latency response mediated by the transcortical pathway.
On the design of precision nanomedicines
Authors: Tian Xiaohe , Angioletti-Uberti Stefano , Battaglia Giuseppe
Published: January 2020

We propose nanomedicines able to target cells phenotypically that bind when a precise combination of receptors is expressed.
Small-scale universality in the spectral structure of transitional pipe flows
Authors: Cerbus Rory T. , Liu Chien-chia , Gioia Gustavo , Chakraborty Pinaki
Published: January 2020

The flashes of transitional pipe flows are turbulent, in the sense of Kolmogorov.
Environmental and genetic determinants of plasmid mobility in pathogenic
Escherichia coli
Authors: Bethke Jonathan H. , Davidovich Adam , Cheng Li , Lopatkin Allison J. , Song Wenchen , Thaden Joshua T. , Fowler Vance G. , Xiao Minfeng , You Lingchong
Published: January 2020

Integrating genomics with growth-based phenotyping reveals divergent roles of antibiotics and incompatibility in plasmid mobility.
The global-scale distributions of soil protists and their contributions to belowground systems
Authors: Oliverio Angela M. , Geisen Stefan , Delgado-Baquerizo Manuel , Maestre Fernando T. , Turner Benjamin L. , Fierer Noah
Published: January 2020

We studied the dominant protists found in soils across the globe and their contributions to belowground food webs.
Multidimensional entanglement transport through single-mode fiber
Authors: Liu Jun , Nape Isaac , Wang Qainke , Vallés Adam , Wang Jian , Forbes Andrew
Published: January 2020

This work suggests a new approach to multidimensional entanglement transport through conventional single-mode fiber.
Structural and spectral dynamics of single-crystalline Ruddlesden-Popper phase halide perovskite blue light-emitting diodes
Authors: Chen Hong , Lin Jia , Kang Joohoon , Kong Qiao , Lu Dylan , Kang Jun , Lai Minliang , Quan Li Na , Lin Zhenni , Jin Jianbo , Wang Lin-wang , Toney Michael F. , Yang Peidong
Published: January 2020

Heat-induced perovskite LED device degradation is elucidated via insightful in situ structure and spectroscopy characterizations.
Weak-field induced nonmagnetic state in a Co-based honeycomb
Authors: Zhong Ruidan , Gao Tong , Ong Nai Phuan , Cava Robert J.
Published: January 2020

The order associated with non-Kitaev interactions in a 3d layered honeycomb magnet is suppressed by a low magnetic field.
Human DNA-PK activates a STING-independent DNA sensing pathway
Authors: Burleigh Katelyn , Maltbaek Joanna H. , Cambier Stephanie , Green Richard , Gale Michael , James Richard C. , Stetson Daniel B.
Published: January 2020

Burleigh
et al.
report a STING-independent DNA sensing pathway in human cells that relies on DNA-PK.
JEDI-net: a jet identification algorithm based on interaction networks
Authors: Moreno Eric A. , Cerri Olmo , Duarte Javier M. , Newman Harvey B. , Nguyen Thong Q. , Periwal Avikar , Pierini Maurizio , Serikova Aidana , Spiropulu Maria , Vlimant Jean-Roch
Published: January 2020

We investigate the performance of a jet identification algorithm based on interaction networks (JEDI-net) to identify all-hadronic decays of high-momentum heavy particles produced at the LHC and distinguish them from ordinary jets originating from the hadronization of quarks and gluons. The jet dynamics are described as a set of one-to-one interactions between the jet constituents. Based on a representation learned from these interactions, the jet is associated to one of the considered categories. Unlike other architectures, the JEDI-net models achieve their performance without special handling of the sparse input jet representation, extensive pre-processing, particle ordering, or specific assumptions regarding the underlying detector geometry. The presented models give better results with less model parameters, offering interesting prospects for LHC applications.
Scattering of charged particles off monopole–anti-monopole pairs
Authors: Vento Vicente , Traini Marco
Published: January 2020

The Large Hadron Collider is reaching energies never achieved before allowing the search for exotic particles in the TeV mass range. In a continuing effort to find monopoles we discuss the effect of the magnetic dipole field created by a pair of monopole–anti-monopole or monopolium on the successive bunches of charged particles in the beam at LHC.
Differential top quark pair production at the LHC: Challenges for PDF fits
Authors: Bailey S. , Harland-Lang L. A.
Published: January 2020

We present the results of a PDF fit to differential top quark production within the MMHT framework. We in particular consider ATLAS data in the lepton + jet and dilepton channels and CMS data in the lepton + jet channel, at 8 TeV. While the fit quality to the ATLAS dilepton data is good, for the CMS case we see some issues in achieving a good fit quality for certain distributions. However, we focus on the ATLAS lepton + jet data, for which correlations of the statistical and systematic errors are provided across the four relevant distributions for PDF determination, namely $$p_T^t$$pTt, $$M_{tt}$$Mtt, $$y_t$$yt and $$y_{tt}$$ytt. We find severe difficulties in fitting these distributions simultaneously, with particular sensitivity to the precise degree of correlation taken between the dominant two-point MC uncertainties in the data. We investigate the effect of some reasonable decorrelation of these uncertainties, finding the impact on the fit quality to be significant and the resultant gluon not negligible. This is in particular found to be larger than the effect of including NNLO QCD and NLO EW corrections in the top quark pair production cross section on the fit, motivating a closer understanding of the physics underlying these errors sources and in particular the uncertainty on the degree of correlation in them.
Study on Thermally Induced Crack Propagation Behavior of Functionally Graded Materials Using a Modified Peridynamic Model
Authors: Wang Fei , Ma Yu’e , Guo Yanning , Huang Wei
Published: January 2020

Peridynamic (PD) theory is used to study the thermally induced cracking behavior of functionally graded materials (FGMs). A modified thermomechanical peridynamic model is developed. The thermal crack propagation of a ceramic slab in quenching is calculated to validate the modified PD model. The results predicted by the modified PD model agree with previously published numerical and experimental ones. Compared with the original PD model, the calculation accuracy of the modified PD model for thermal cracking is improved. The thermal cracking in FGMs is also simulated. The effects of material shape, initial temperature, and ceramic fracture toughness on thermal crack propagation behaviors are studied. It can be found that the thermal cracks in FGMs are still in periodical and hierarchical forms. The metal materials in FGMs can prevent crack initiation and arrest the long cracks. The crack number tends to be increased with the increasing initial temperature, while the strengthened ceramic fracture toughness can decrease it.
Effect of Three Types of Activities on Improving Mood and Enjoyment in a Brief Online Depression Study
Authors: Tilden Caitriona , Bond Melissa H. , Stephens Taylor N. , Lyckberg Tyler , Muñoz Ricardo F. , Bunge Eduardo L.
Published: January 2020

The goal of this study is to determine whether different types of activities have a differential effect on mood and enjoyment.Methods.A secondary analysis of the data of 754 participants (Mage = 35.8 years,SDage = 12.6;MPHQ-9 = 7.6,SDPHQ-9 = 7.0) who were recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk (AMT) to participate in a brief online study. Participants completed an activity log and reported retrospectively about three types of activities (Pleasant, Meaningful, and Mastery) at baseline and one week follow-up. A mixed effects ANOVA was used to analyze the effect of weekly activities on mood, and a temporal analysis model was used to test for the effect of daily activities on enjoyment.Results.Participants who reported higher number of Mastery activities for the week had higher mood ratings at follow-up (F (1, 39) = 4.89,p<.05), regardless of depression status at baseline. Pleasant and Meaningful activities did not have a significant effect on mood. Daily engagement in any of the three activity types increased enjoyment of that day (Pleasant:b=0.312,t(1811) = 46.73,p<.001; Meaningful:b=0.254,t(1814) = 11.65,p<.001; Mastery:b=0.290,t(1816) = 13.07,p<.001].Conclusions.These findings contribute to the understanding on how brief behavioral activation interventions delivered online may influence participants’ mood and enjoyment, and can inform clinicians’ recommendations about types of activities.
Performance Evaluation of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes for Yield and Related Traits at Areka, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Yohannes Simon , Loha Gobeze , Gessese Mesfin Kebede
Published: January 2020

Common bean is a source of dietary protein and the second most important legume crop in Africa next to faba bean. In Ethiopia common bean is the most important legume as the source of protein and export commodity. Hence, development of commercial varieties is one of the major tasks to meet increasing demand of the stake holders. To this effect, understanding the genetic variability, heritability and association between grain yield and other agronomic traits is necessary for effective plant breeding program. In this context, a field experiment was conducted during 2016/2017 cropping season at Areka Agricultural Research Center in southern Ethiopia with the objective of evaluating common bean genotypes for yield and related traits and also estimate the variability present among the genotypes. Treatments consisted of thirty three common bean genotypes were laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Common bean genotypes exhibited considerable variations for agronomic traits and grain yield. Majority of the traits; plant height, number of nodes, internode length, leaf area, LAI, biological yield, pods per plant, HI and HSW had higher PCV. Genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) varied from 1.88% to 37.72% with the highest GCV recorded for HSW. Heritability in broad sense (H2) ranged from 0.52% to 95.33% with the highest value observed for HSW. The present study revealed significant variation among genotypes for traits considered except few insignificant traits. In addition, almost all the genotypes were well adapted to the study area and hence, the high yielding genotypes could be directly used as seed sources for production of common bean and some of the genotypes with best diseases resistance reaction, and with high heritability can possibly be used in common bean improvement program.
Estimating the Uplift Bearing Capacity of Belled Piers Adjacent to Sloping Ground by Numerical Modeling Based on Field Tests
Authors: Han Yangchun , Cheng Jiulong , Zheng Weifeng , Ding Shijun
Published: January 2020

In order to evaluate the uplift bearing capacity of belled piers beside slopes, a series of numerical simulations are carried out based on field tests data. First, a number of uplift loading tests of full‐scale belled piers are carried out on the project site of transmission line in Anhui Province, China. Second, a slope‐foundation model for numerical modeling is proposed and calibrated based on field tests data. The behavior of belled piers adjacent to slopes subject to uplift load is studied by numerical modeling. The impact of three parameters, including distance (a) from the belled pier to the crest of the slope, slope angle (β), and embedment depth (h) of the belled pier, has been investigated on the uplift capacity of the belled pier. Based on the simulation results, an attenuation coefficient (ω) is put forward for evaluating the reduction of uplift bearing capacity of the belled pier. The results show that the coefficient ω is negatively correlated with distance a and depth h, and the influence of distance a is greater than that of depth h according to the results of variance analysis, but the difference is not significant by F test. Moreover, the empirical equation between attenuation coefficient ω and three key factors a, β, and h had been presented by a series of fitting.
Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Salmonella Isolated from Caecal Contents of Exotic Chicken in Debre Zeit and Modjo, Ethiopia
Authors: Asfaw Ali Destaw , Tadesse Belege , Ebabu Aragaw
Published: January 2020

A cross-sectional study was conducted between December, 2013, and May, 2014, to determine the prevalence and antibiotic resistance feature of Salmonella isolated from broilers slaughtered in Debre Zeit and Modjo towns, Ethiopia. A total of 384 caecal content samples were collected for microbiological examination following the standard techniques and procedures outlined by the International Organization for Standardization to isolate Salmonella. The sensitivity of the isolates subjected to nine antimicrobials was tested by the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. The overall prevalence of Salmonella was 14.6%, and its occurrence differ significantly by farm (p<0.05). The occurrence of the bacteria was not statistically different in the midland (15.2%) and lowland (13.3%) (p>0.05) and between males (13.5%) and females (15.6) (p>0.05). Of the 50 isolates, 48 were resistant to at least one drug. Multidrug resistance was recorded in 43 (86.0%) of the isolates. The study demonstrated considerable prevalence and high antimicrobial resistant Salmonella in exotic chicken and indicates the potential importance of chickens as source of foodborne salmonellosis and multiple antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella. Improving the hygienic practice of farms could help to reduce the occurrence of Salmonella in farms. Further studies are needed to describe the risk factors associated with the emergence of drug-resistant Salmonella in chicken.
A New Proof of Existence of Positive Weak Solutions for Sublinear Kirchhoff Elliptic Systems with Multiple Parameters
Authors: Boulaaras Salah Mahmoud , Guefaifia Rafik , Cherif Bahri , Alodhaibi Sultan
Published: January 2020

This paper deals with the study of the existence of weak positive solutions for sublinear Kirchhoff elliptic systems with zero Dirichlet boundary condition in bounded domainΩ⊂ℝNby using the subsuper solutions method.