bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Composition and Efficacy of Ocimum basilicum L. Essential Oil against Stored Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Molds Sold in Ngaoundere (Cameroon)
Authors: Nganou Nadege Donkeng , Nodem Steve Francky Sohanang , Beumo Thierry Marcel Ntsamo , Sokamte Alphonse Tegang , Tatsadjieu Leopold Ngoune
Published: September 2020

The aimed of this study to evaluate the antifungal activity of essential oils of Ocimum basilicum L. on some fungi isolated from commercial rice sold in Cameroon. Fungal isolates were primarily identified based on morphological characteristics, while representative isolates were identified using PCR-based methods. Essential oils were extracted by hydro-distillation, chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and antifungal activity against isolated fungi were assessed using the micro-atmospheric method. The percentage of frequency and abundance varied with the sample analyzed and the fungi detected. A total of 85 fungal isolates of eight genera including Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Rhizopus, Cladosporum, Mucor Alternaria and Acremonium in decreasing order of predominance were identified. The most fungal species identified were Aspergillus flavus, A. fumgatis, A. niger, A. carbonarius, Fusarium oxysporum, F. graminarum, F. moniliforme, Penicillium citrinum, P. expansum, Rhizopus oryzea, Cladosporum sp, Mucor hiemalis, Alternaria solani, Acremonium murorum. More than 61% (A. flavus, A. niger, P. citrinum) and 44% (M. hiemalis, A. flavus, A. niger) of analyzed samples contain respectively aflatoxin B1, AFB1 (0 - 17.3 µg/kg) and ochratoxin A, OTA (0 - 5.2 µg/kg). Citrinin was not detected. The main compounds identified in O. basilicum EO are eugenol (30.6), linalool (29.5), cineole (14.4), Terpinen-4-ol (5.6), 2-norpinen (4.1), Cadinen (3.3), Limonen (2.4) and (E)-β-Ocimene (2.2). The O. basilicum EO exhibit antifungal activity with the MIC range from 750-2000 ppm. This activity varies with the strains and the concentration of EO. The increased prevalence of mycotoxigenic fungi in rice, a highly consumed food grain in Africa, poses serious health concerns to the general public. The O. basilicum EO can therefore be used as alternatives to synthetic pesticide in rice storage.
Heterochrony of postnatal accumulation of nonphosphorylated heavy‐chain neurofilament by neurons of the cat dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus
Authors: Mikhalkin Aleksandr , Nikitina Nina , Merkulyeva Natalia
Published: September 2020

Accumulation of the heavy‐chain neurofilaments reflects the maturation status of neuronal structures. The spatial distribution and postnatal developmental dynamic of neurons expressing nonphosphorylated heavy‐chain neurofilaments (labeled by SMI‐32 antibody) were analyzed in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd) of the cat. Both interlaminar and intralaminar differences in the dynamic of SMI‐32 staining were observed. The following results were obtained: (a) Ascending dorsoventral gradient in the density of SMI‐32 immunopositive (SMI‐32(+)) neurons (the greatest neuronal density in layer Cm, the minor in the top sublayer of layer A). This gradient was most prominent at the earliest stages of postnatal development (1st–2nd weeks) and slowly flattened up to adulthood; (b) Layer A1 exhibits increases in SMI‐32‐positive cells earlier than layer A; (c) The general transient increment in the number and density of SMI‐32(+) neurons around 2–5 postnatal weeks. Since SMI‐32 antibody is considered to be a putative marker for Y cells forming a motion processing stream, we suggest that peculiarities of SMI‐32 staining at geniculate level could reflect the heterogeneity of Y cell subpopulations and the heterochrony of their postnatal maturation.
Enhancement of electron density in the interaction of high‐power electromagnetic waves with inhomogeneous magnetized plasma
Authors: Ghalandari H. , Hashemzadeh M.
Published: September 2020

Propagation characteristics of a high‐power electromagnetic wave through an inhomogeneous magnetized plasma is investigated. Considering the momentum transfer equations for electrons and ions and taking into account the ponderomotive force, the distribution of electron density and dielectric permittivity are obtained. Using non‐linear dielectric permittivity and Maxwell's equations in the absence of external current and charge densities, non‐linear wave equations are achieved. The results indicate that the external static magnetic field can modify the profiles of both the electric and magnetic fields. It is also shown that the external static magnetic field enhances the amplitude of the electron density and the non‐linear dielectric permittivity.
Identification of physiologic treatment targets with favourable haemodynamic consequences in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Kaye David M. , Byrne Melissa , Mariani Justin , Nanayakkara Shane , Burkhoff Daniel
Published: September 2020

Aims

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is characterized by complex pathophysiology including an impaired diastolic reserve. We recently showed that milrinone favourably modifies filling pressures at rest and during exertion in HFpEF patients; however, the responsible mechanism is uncertain. The objective of this study was to develop a clearer understanding of the acutely modifiable physiologic parameters that may be targeted in HFpEF.

Methods and results

We conducted computer modelling simulations based on invasive haemodynamic assessments, by right heart catheterization, in HFpEF patients at baseline and in response to milrinone. Our aim was to develop a detailed understanding of the physiologic mechanisms, which accounted for the observed actions. The resultant circulatory model of HFpEF encompassed the left ventricular (LV) end‐systolic and end‐diastolic pressure–volume relations, together with stressed blood volume, heart rate, and arterial mechanics. To support the modelled action of milrinone, we conducted complementary LV conductance catheter and echocardiography studies in sheep to evaluate LV end‐systolic and end‐diastolic pressure–volume relations. In HFpEF patients, the acute haemodynamic effects of intravenous milrinone (n = 10) administration compared with placebo (n = 10) included significant reductions in right atrial pressure (7 ± 1 to 3 ± 1 mmHg, P < 0.001) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (13 ± 1 to 8 ± 1 mmHg, P < 0.001), while cardiac index increased (2.77 ± 0.19 to 3.15 ± 0.14 L/min/m2, P < 0.05), and mean arterial pressure remained unchanged (95 ± 2 to 93 ± 3 mmHg, P = not significant). Computer simulations showed that these haemodynamic effects were explained by a concomitant 31% reduction in stressed blood volume together with 44% increase in LV end‐systolic elastance (LV Ees). Individually, changes in these parameters were not sufficient to explain the haemodynamic effects of milrinone. In vivo studies conducted in sheep (n = 5) showed that milrinone reduced LV filling pressure (8.0 ± 0.8 to 2.7 ± 0.6 mmHg, P < 0.01) and increased LV Ees (0.96 ± 0.07 to 2.07 ± 0.49, P < 0.05), while no significant effect on LV stiffness was observed (0.038 ± 0.003 to 0.034 ± 0.008, P = not significant).

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that stressed blood volume in HFpEF represents a relevant physiologic target in HFpEF; however, concomitant modulation of other cardiovascular parameters including LV contractility may be required to achieve desirable haemodynamic effects.
Potential survival benefit for patients receiving autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation after checkpoint inhibitors for relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma: A real‐life experience
Authors: Casadei Beatrice , Argnani Lisa , Morigi Alice , Lolli Ginevra , Broccoli Alessandro , Pellegrini Cinzia , Nanni Laura , Stefoni Vittorio , Coppola Paolo Elia , Carella Matteo , Cavo Michele , Zinzani Pier Luigi
Published: September 2020

In recent years, novel drugs are available for the patients with relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), like immune checkpoint inhibitors (CPi). These drugs have been able to rescue a cohort of patients who subsequently could receive an allogeneic stem‐cell transplant (SCT). No data were reported for subsequent autologous SCT (ASCT) after CPi. Here, we report our real‐life experience in heavily pretreated HL patients undergoing ASCT as consolidation approach after CPi treatment. A retrospective observational study was conducted. Patients had CPi therapy in the context of clinical trials (n = 6) or in the named patient program (n = 7) between July 2014 and November 2019: 9 out of 13 received pembrolizumab and the remaining four underwent nivolumab. A median of 12 cycles (range, 3–16) of CPi therapy were infused. Thirteen patients underwent ASCT after CPi: 11 (84.6%) patients obtained a complete response (CR) and 2 had progression of disease, with an overall response rate of 84.6%. With a median follow‐up of 3.3 years (range, 1.1–5.5), only one CR patient had disease relapse after 3.9 months from ASCT, leading to an estimated disease‐free survival of 87.5% at 56.9 months. The estimated 5‐year progression‐free survival was 73.4% and overall survival was 92.3% at 4.8 years, respectively. No unexpected or cumulative toxicity was observed. Our results indicated that ASCT may represent a further effective therapeutic option as consolidation in HL after CPi treatment that today represents the last conventionally recognized therapeutic line.
The harder firms practice strategic management, the better they are
Authors: Elbanna Said , Al Katheeri Bakheet , Colak Mustafa
Published: September 2020

The integrated practice of strategic management, that is the use of the three components of the strategic management process (formulation, implementation, and evaluation) does matter. Firms should plan intensively and pay attention to choosing strategic planning tools that best fit their needs. No matter how sound the formulated plans are, firms will not benefit if these plans are neither implemented nor evaluated correctly. The harder firms practice strategic management, the better their performance and competitiveness will be.
Practice patterns for neuroimaging and transfusion therapy for management of neurologic complications in sickle cell anemia: DISPLACE consortium
Authors: Phillips Shannon , Schlenz Alyssa M. , Mueller Martina , Melvin Cathy , Adams Robert J. , Kanter Julie ,   (on behalf of the DISPLACE investigators)
Published: September 2020

Background

Children with sickle cell anemia (SCA) are at risk for neurologic complications (stroke and silent cerebral infarct). The 2014 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) guidelines for sickle cell disease include recommendations for initiation and maintenance of chronic red cell transfusion (CRCT) therapy for children with SCA at risk for or with ischemic stroke. The guidelines do not include well‐delineated recommendations for cerebral imaging for stroke screening. The purpose of this study was to evaluate current stroke risk screening, prevention, and intervention practices amongst the Dissemination and Implementation of Stroke Prevention Looking at the Care Environment (DISPLACE) study sites.

Procedure

A survey was administered to DISPLACE site principal investigators to identify current stroke prevention practices relative to the Stroke Prevention Trial in Sickle Cell Anemia (STOP) study protocols and the 2014 NHLBI guidelines. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and line‐by‐line analysis of comments.

Results

Sites consistently applied NHLBI recommendations to initiate CRCT for ischemic stroke and abnormal transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) results. Similarly, nearly all sites reported obtaining an magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) following an abnormal TCD result. There was wide variation for other indications for MRI/MRA, frequency of MRI/MRA, and other neurological indications for initiating CRCT.

Conclusions

Guideline‐based practices for preventing ischemic stroke through TCD and CRCT initiation were evident in nearly all sites. Wide variation in practices pertaining to MRI/MRA exists, potentially influenced by more recent stroke prevention trials. New guidelines from the American Society of Hematology were published in April 2020, which may reduce practice variation.
Reproductive male partner testing when the female is identified to be a genetic disease carrier
Authors: Simone Laurie , Khan Shama , Ciarlariello Molly , Lin Julia , Trackman Sarah , Heiman Gary A. , Ashkinadze Elena
Published: September 2020

Objective

To quantify carrier testing uptake rates for male partners of women found to be a carrier(s) for autosomal recessive conditions and to understand reasons for declining testing (uptake rate).

Methods

A retrospective chart review of 513 female patients seen at Rutgers‐Robert Wood Johnson Medical School found to be carriers through expanded carrier screening (ECS) panels. The aims of this study were to determine how often their male partner chose testing, reasons for declining and the type of methodology chosen for their screening.

Results

Male partner uptake rate was 77%. We identified that the most significant barrier to male partner testing is female patients not following up on their own carrier screening results, thus missing the opportunity for partner testing. When male partners were provided options for testing, the most reported reason for declining is the belief it would have no impact on pregnancy management (20%). A carrier couple rate of 8.3% was identified of partners tested.

Conclusion

Despite a relatively high male testing uptake rate, a quarter of carrier females did not proceed with testing their partner. To ascertain fetal risk, results for both parents is necessary. Pretest counseling should stress need for potential male partner follow‐up testing.
Exact D7-brane embedding in the Pilch-Warner background
Authors: Chen-Lin Xinyi , Dekel Amit
Published: September 2020

Abstract

A new supersymmetric D7-brane embedding in the Pilch-Warner gravitational background is found exactly, by solving the supersymmetric condition. In the dual holographic picture, our setting corresponds to adding a quenched fundamental matter sector to$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 2∗super Yang-Mills theory, at zero temperature. We show that previous results in the same setting are missing the Wess-Zumino term in the D-brane action, and how our results complete the picture.
An Evaluation of Parent Training Interventions in Scotland: The Psychology of Parenting Project (PoPP)
Authors: Saunders Rob , Brack Marita , Renz Brenda , Thomson Judy , Pilling Stephen
Published: September 2020

Early-onset behavioural difficulties persisting into the pre-school years, can make young children vulnerable to poor long-term outcomes including the development of conduct disorders, which are linked to significantly higher societal costs. Several parenting interventions have been shown to reduce behavioural difficulties in children and this evaluation presents outcomes from the Psychology of Parenting Project (PoPP), a national implementation programme delivered in early years services in Scotland. This evaluation of service implementation reports on a large cohort of children (2204, age: 2–5 years) whose parents/caregivers participated in PoPP group-based parenting interventions. We explored change in parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) scores following either the Incredible Years Pre-school Basic or the Level 4 Group Triple P interventions. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to identify statistically distinct sub-groups of children based on SDQ subscale scores (emotional, conduct, hyperactivity, peer problems and prosocial). Pre- and post-intervention SDQ scores were available for 58% of children. Large intervention effects were reported and analyses showed that 60% of “at-risk” children were no longer scoring in the at-risk range post-interventions. LPA identified four statistically-distinct profiles of children. Children from “low” and “moderate” behavioural problem profiles benefited more from Triple P, whereas “severe” and “hyperactivity-focused” problem profiles displayed better outcomes following Incredible Years. When delivered through a robust implementation scheme, these parenting interventions can be effective in routine service settings and produce clinically important improvements. These findings and the identification of distinct profiles of children who may respond differentially to interventions could guide the planning of future dissemination schemes.
Evolution of microstructure and hardness during artificial aging of an ultrafine-grained Al-Zn-Mg-Zr alloy processed by high pressure torsion
Authors: Gubicza Jenő , El-Tahawy Moustafa , Lábár János L. , Bobruk Elena V. , Murashkin Maxim Yu , Valiev Ruslan Z. , Chinh Nguyen Q.
Published: September 2020

An ultrafine-grained (UFG) Al-4.8%Zn-1.2%Mg-0.14%Zr (wt%) alloy was processed by high pressure torsion (HPT) technique and then aged at 120 and 170 °C for 2 h. The changes in the microstructure due to this artificial aging were studied by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. It was found that the HPT-processed alloy has a small grain size of about 200 nm and a high dislocation density of about 8 × 1014 m−2. The majority of precipitates after HPT are Guinier–Preston (GP) zones with a size of ~ 2 nm, and only a few large particles were formed at the grain boundaries. Annealing at 120 and 170 °C for 2 h resulted in the formation of stable MgZn2 precipitates from a part of the GP zones. It was found that for the higher temperature the fraction of the MgZn2 phase was larger and the dislocation density in the Al matrix was lower. The changes in the precipitates and the dislocation density due to aging were correlated to the hardness evolution. It was found that the majority of hardness reduction during aging was caused by the annihilation of dislocations and some grain growth at 170 °C. The aging effect on the microstructure and the hardness of the HPT-processed specimen was compared to that observed for the UFG sample processed by equal-channel angular pressing. It was revealed that in the HPT sample less secondary phase particles formed in the grain boundaries, and the higher amount of precipitates in the grain interiors resulted in a higher hardness even after aging.
Scientific and local ecological knowledge, shaping perceptions towards protected areas and related ecosystem services
Authors: Cebrián-Piqueras M. A. , Filyushkina A. , Johnson D. N. , Lo V. B. , López-Rodríguez M. D. , March H. , Oteros-Rozas E. , Peppler-Lisbach C. , Quintas-Soriano C. , Raymond C. M. , Ruiz-Mallén I. , van Riper C. J. , Zinngrebe Y. , Plieninger T.
Published: September 2020

Context

Most protected areas are managed based on objectives related to scientific ecological knowledge of species and ecosystems. However, a core principle of sustainability science is that understanding and including local ecological knowledge, perceptions of ecosystem service provision and landscape vulnerability will improve sustainability and resilience of social-ecological systems. Here, we take up these assumptions in the context of protected areas to provide insight on the effectiveness of nature protection goals, particularly in highly human-influenced landscapes.

Objectives

We examined how residents’ ecological knowledge systems, comprised of both local and scientific, mediated the relationship between their characteristics and a set of variables that represented perceptions of ecosystem services, landscape change, human-nature relationships, and impacts.

Methods

We administered a face-to-face survey to local residents in the Sierra de Guadarrama protected areas, Spain. We used bi- and multi-variate analysis, including partial least squares path modeling to test our hypotheses.

Results

Ecological knowledge systems were highly correlated and were instrumental in predicting perceptions of water-related ecosystem services, landscape change, increasing outdoors activities, and human-nature relationships. Engagement with nature, socio-demographics, trip characteristics, and a rural–urban gradient explained a high degree of variation in ecological knowledge. Bundles of perceived ecosystem services and impacts, in relation to ecological knowledge, emerged as social representation on how residents relate to, understand, and perceive landscapes.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insight into the interactions between ecological knowledge systems and their role in shaping perceptions of local communities about protected areas. These results are expected to inform protected area management and landscape sustainability.
Long-term tract-specific white matter microstructural changes after acute stress
Authors: Meng Linghui , Shan Tong , Li Kaiming , Gong Qiyong
Published: September 2020

Acute stress has substantial impact on white matter microstructure of people exposed to trauma. Its long-term consequence and how the brain changes from the stress remain unclear. In this study, we address this issue via diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Twenty-two trauma-exposed individuals who did not meet post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnostic criteria were recruited from the most affected area of Wenchuan earthquake and scanned twice (within twenty-five days and two years after the quake, respectively). Their emotional distress was evaluated with the Self-Rating Anxiety/Depression Scales (SAS/SDS) at both scans. Automatic fiber quantification was used to examine brain microstructure alterations. Correlation analyses were also conducted to investigate relationships between brain microstructure changes and symptom improvement. A group of demographically matched healthy controls (N = 22) from another project were scanned once before the quake using the same imaging protocols as used with trauma-exposed non-PTSD (TENP) participants. Two years after the earthquake, TENP individuals exhibited significantly reduced FA in the parietal portion of left superior longitudinal fasciculus and high FA in the parietal portion of left corticospinal tract. Over the follow-up, increased FA of the left uncinate fasciculus and the left corticospinal tract with parallel reduction of SAS and SDS were observed in TENP. No significant association was found between brain microstructure changes and symptom improvement. These results indicate changes in WM microstructure integrity of TENP brains parallel with symptom improvement over time after acute stress. However, the change would be a long-term process without external intervention.
Qualifizierung in der Sozialen Arbeit
Authors: Klomann Verena , Lochner Barbara
Published: September 2020

Der Beitrag führt in den Schwerpunkt ein, indem er aktuelle Entwicklungen in der Qualifizierungslandschaft der Sozialen Arbeit skizziert und disziplin- und professionspolitische Herausforderungen benennt.
“These Women are Making a Statement Against Rape and yet the only Thing Y'All can Focus on is ‘Eww They're Naked’”: Exploring Rape Culture on Facebook in South Africa
Authors: Orth Zaida , Andipatin Michelle , van Wyk Brian
Published: September 2020

Sexual assault on campuses has been identified as a pervasive public health problem. In April 2016, students across South African universities launched the #Endrapeculture campaign to express their frustration against university policies which served to perpetuate a rape culture. The use of hashtag activism during the protest served to spark online public debates and mobilize support for the protests. This article describes the public reactions to the South African #Endrapeculture protests on the Facebook social media platform. Data was collected through natural observations of comment threads on news articles and public posts on the student protests, and subjected to content analysis. The findings suggest that the #nakedprotest was successful in initiating public conversations concerning the issue of rape culture. However, the reactions towards the #nakedprotest were divided with some perpetuating a mainstream public discourse which perpetuates rape culture, and others (re)presenting a counter-public that challenged current dominant views about rape culture. Two related main themes emerged: Victim-blaming and Trivialising Rape Culture. Victim-blaming narratives emerged from the commenters and suggested that the protesters were increasing their chances of being sexually assaulted by marching topless. This discourse seems to perpetuate the notion of the aggressive male sexual desire and places the onus on women to protect themselves. Other commenters criticised the #nakedprotest method through demeaning comments which served to derail the conversation and trivialise the message behind the protest. The public reaction to the #nakedprotest demonstrated that rape culture is pervasive in society and continues to be re(produced) through discourse on social media platforms. However, social media also offers individuals the opportunity to draw from and participate in multiple counter-publics which challenge these mainstream rape culture discourses.
CORS Usage for GPS Survey in the Greater Accra Region: Advantages, Limitation, and Suggested Remedies
Authors: Botsyo Sebastian , Bortei Bernard Borketey , Ayer John
Published: September 2020

The use of Continuously Operating Reference Stations (CORS) enables surveyors to differentially correct static Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements. CORS are designed to support the broad spectrum of post-processed, relative GPS techniques, and applications. Enhancing geospatial positioning applications of CORS data involves the critical role in defining the nation’s geodetic reference system. With the establishment of a coordinated system of CORS, an Online Positioning User Service can become available for processing in single positioning mode to provide corresponding accurate and homogeneous positional coordinates. The Survey and Mapping Division (SMD), Lands Commission of Ghana, has established four CORS in the Greater Accra, and Ashanti, Western and Brong-Ahafo Regions, respectively, to provide a basic CORS network in accordance with the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). However, most surveyors continue to reference their works in these regions to ground survey beacons that have been coordinated and adjusted by variable survey methods. This obviously makes homogeneity of data unpredictable. This study explored the extent of usage of existing CORS network established by SMD with particular focus on the CORS in the Greater Accra Region for GPS surveys and to determine its usefulness in ensuring homogeneity in GPS data collection. The professional participatory (interviews) technique was coupled with differential GPS field observations with the CORS as reference in one case and ground control stations as reference in the other in making relatively conclusive analysis. Test results showed that GPS field survey of an approximate range of 23 km away from the Accra CORS yielded an average positional change in Northings and Eastings of − 0.790 m, − 0.176 m and − 0.681 m, − 0.098 m for single and dual frequency, respectively, in different localities within the study area. Beyond a range of 25 km from the Accra CORS, the average positional change in Northings and Eastings are − 0.536 m, − 0.007 m and − 1.370 m, 0.334 m for single and dual frequency respectively. Of 128 geomatic professionals interviewed, 39% are aware of the availability of COR stations in Greater Accra, 61% are unaware, and 28% are aware and users of the Accra CORS whereas 11% are aware but non-users of the Accra COR station. Of all users sampled, 17.5% are regular and frequent users of the Accra COR station and 10.5% are occasional or seldom users. The results show that the Accra CORS is vital to ensuring a uniform homogenous GPS data. However, very few people are using it due to low public awareness of the usefulness of the CORS among professional surveyors and other users and a cumbersome, bureaucratic nature in CORS data acquisition for post-processing and RTK GPS surveys.
Farewell to Tradition? Presenting Archaeology after the Digital Turn
Authors: Stobiecka Monika
Published: September 2020

OVERVIEW

The last 20 years mark a period of transformation from a traditional model of displaying archaeology to a more immersive model supported by digital and virtual media. The traditional model has generally used glass cases accompanied by extensive texts to inform visitors, whereas the immersive model employs digital media, tablets, virtual reality, and augmented reality to attract and engage a wide audience. In light of the recent enthusiasm for the latter, however, one must ask whether such immersive exhibitions are merely superficial means to make public institutions more attractive without having a meaningful impact on audience engagement. Polish archaeological museums provide interesting sites through which to explore this predicament. Here, digital upgrades are generously financed by national funds, so the traditional model of the archaeological museum in Poland is currently almost absent. In this short review, I aim to discuss one of the most interesting examples of temporary digital archaeological exhibitions organized between 2014 and 2019 in the Polish capital of Warsaw. I investigate its potential to engage audiences, ultimately concluding that it managed to create an interesting counterweight to traditional displays and respond to the drawbacks of new digital exhibitions through novel aesthetics and alternative archaeological storytelling.
What is the resource footprint of a computer science department? Place, people, and Pedagogy
Authors: Mian I. S. , Twisleton D. , Timm D. A.
Published: September 2020

Internet and Communication Technology/electrical and electronic equipment (ICT/EEE) form the bedrock of today’s knowledge economy. This increasingly interconnected web of products, processes, services, and infrastructure is often invisible to the user, as are the resource costs behind them. This ecosystem of machine-to-machine and cyber-physical-system technologies has a myriad of (in)direct impacts on the lithosphere, biosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere. As key determinants of tomorrow’s digital world, academic institutions are critical sites for exploring ways to mitigate and/or eliminate negative impacts. This Report is a self-deliberation provoked by the questionHow do we create more resilient and healthier computer science departments: living laboratories for teaching and learning about resource-constrained computing, computation, and communication?Our response for University College London (UCL) Computer Science is to reflect on how, when, and where resources—energy, (raw) materials including water, space, and time—are consumed by the building (place), its occupants (people), and their activities (pedagogy). This perspective and attendant first-of-its-kind assessment outlines a roadmap and proposes high-level principles to aid our efforts, describing challenges and difficulties hindering quantification of the Department’s resource footprint. Qualitatively, we find a need to rematerialise the ICT/EEE ecosystem: to reveal the full costs of the seemingly intangible information society by interrogating the entire life history of paraphernalia from smartphones through servers to underground/undersea cables; another approach is demonstrating the corporeality of commonplace phrases and Nature-inspired terms such as artificial intelligence, social media, Big Data, smart cities/farming, the Internet, the Cloud, and the Web. We sketch routes to realising three interlinked aims: cap annual power consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, become a zero waste institution, and rejuvenate and (re)integrate the natural and built environments.
In vitro ileal and caecal fermentation of fibre substrates in the growing pig given a human-type diet
Authors: Montoya Carlos A. , Blatchford Paul , Moughan Paul J.
Published: September 2020

This study characterised the in vitro ileal fermentability of different substrates in the growing pig, adopted as an animal model for the adult human, and compared in vitro ileal and caecal fermentation in the pig. Substrates (arabinogalactan (AG), cellulose, fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS), inulin, mucin, citrus pectin and resistant starch) were fermented in vitro (ileal 2 h and caecal 24 h) with an ileal or caecal inoculum prepared from ileal or caecal digesta collected from growing pigs (n 5) fed a human-type diet for 15 d. The organic matter (OM) fermentability and production of organic acids were determined. In general, there was considerable in vitro ileal fermentation of fibre, and the substrates differed (P < 0·001) for both in vitro ileal and caecal OM fermentability and for organic acid production. Pectin had the greatest in vitro ileal OM fermentability (26 %) followed by AG, FOS and resistant starch (15 % on average), and cellulose, inulin and mucin (3 % on average). The fermentation of FOS, inulin and mucin was greater for in vitro caecal fermentation compared with the ileal counterpart (P ≤ 0·05). In general, the organic acid production was higher for in vitro caecal fermentation (P ≤ 0·05). For instance, the in vitro ileal acetic acid production represented 4–46 % of in vitro caecal production. Energy from fibre fermentation of 0·6–11 kJ/g substrate fermented could be expected in the ileum of the pig. In conclusion, substrates are fermented in both the ileum and caecum. The degree of fermentation varies among substrates, especially for in vitro ileal fermentation.
The Continuing Effects of Welfare Reform on Food Bank use in the UK: The Roll-out of Universal Credit
Authors: REEVES AARON , LOOPSTRA RACHEL
Published: September 2020

In this paper we explore whether the recent rise in food bank usage in the UK has been induced by the roll-out of Universal Credit. We bring together official statistics on the introduction of Universal Credit with data on food bank usage from the UK’s largest food bank network. We test the relationship between Universal Credit and food parcel distribution using a range of causal identification strategies (such as fixed-effects model, Granger causality tests, and matching designs) and consistently find that an increase in the prevalence of Universal Credit is associated with more food parcel distribution. We also find that the relationship between Universal Credit and food parcel distribution is stronger in areas where food banks are active, suggesting food insecurity arising from Universal Credit may be hidden in places where food banks are largely unavailable. Though it is challenging to implement any large-scale change to social security, our analysis suggests systemic and persistent problems with this new system. Whilst the logic of Universal Credit is intuitively appealing, it has also proven to be unforgiving, leaving many struggling to make ends meet.
UNDERSTANDING CLARENCE AYRES’S CRITICISM OF AN EMERGING MAINSTREAM AND BIRTHING INSTITUTIONALISM THROUGH THE 1930S AYRES-KNIGHT DEBATE
Authors: Almeida Felipe , Cavalieri Marco
Published: September 2020

Clarence Ayres was a strong dissenting voice in US economics during the twentieth century. In the 1930s, a debate between Ayres and Frank Knight was published by theInternational Journal of Ethics. Although the debate focused on ethics, the evolution of economics was also discussed. This paper proposes an understanding of Ayres’s ideas based on the context in which he made them. This context is defined by the 1930s Ayres-Knight debate and the archival correspondence between Ayres and Knight during the 1930s.
Single-cell mass cytometry of microglia in major depressive disorder reveals a non-inflammatory phenotype with increased homeostatic marker expression
Authors: Böttcher Chotima , Fernández-Zapata Camila , Snijders Gijsje J. L. , Schlickeiser Stephan , Sneeboer Marjolein A. M. , Kunkel Desiree , De Witte Lot D. , Priller Josef
Published: September 2020

Stress-induced disturbances of brain homeostasis and neuroinflammation have been implicated in the pathophysiology of mood disorders. In major depressive disorder (MDD), elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines can be found in peripheral blood, but very little is known about the changes that occur directly in the brain. Microglia are the primary immune effector cells of the central nervous system and exquisitely sensitive to changes in the brain microenvironment. Here, we performed the first single-cell analysis of microglia from four different post-mortem brain regions (frontal lobe, temporal lobe, thalamus, and subventricular zone) of medicated individuals with MDD compared to controls. We found no evidence for the induction of inflammation-associated molecules, such as CD11b, CD45, CCL2, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF, MIP-1β (CCL4), IL-10, and even decreased expression of HLA-DR and CD68 in microglia from MDD cases. In contrast, we detected increased levels of the homeostatic proteins P2Y12 receptor, TMEM119 and CCR5 (CD195) in microglia from all brain regions of individuals with MDD. We also identified enrichment of non-inflammatory CD206hi macrophages in the brains of MDD cases. In sum, our results suggest enhanced homeostatic functions of microglia in MDD.
4D printing of stretchable nanocookie@conduit material hosting biocues and magnetoelectric stimulation for neurite sprouting
Authors: Fang Jen-Hung , Hsu Hao-Hsiang , Hsu Ru-Siou , Peng Chih-Kang , Lu Yu-Jen , Chen You-Yin , Chen San-Yuan , Hu Shang-Hsiu
Published: September 2020

A high-frequency magnetic field (MF) generates an electric current by charging conductors that enable the induction of various biological processes, including changes in cell fate and programming. In this study, we show that electromagnetized carbon porous nanocookies (NCs) under MF treatment facilitate magnetoelectric conversion for growth factor release and cell stimulation to induce neuron cell differentiation and proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Integrating four-dimensional printing technology, the NCs are exposed on the surface, which enhances the cell adhesion and allows direct manipulation of electromagnetic stimulation of the cells. Remarkably, large amounts of growth factor encapsulated in NC@conduit resulted in excellent permeability and on-demand release, improving the in vivo layers of myelin sheaths and directing the axon orientation at 1 month postimplantation. This study offers proof of principle for MF-guided in vivo neuron regeneration as a potentially viable tissue regeneration approach for neuronal diseases.
Reliability of body composition assessment using A-mode ultrasound in a heterogeneous sample
Authors: Miclos-Balica Monica , Muntean Paul , Schick Falk , Haragus Horia G. , Glisici Bogdan , Pupazan Vasile , Neagu Adrian , Neagu Monica
Published: September 2020

Background/Objectives

Several studies have addressed the validity of ultrasound (US) for body composition assessment, but few have evaluated its reliability. This study aimed to determine the reliability of percent body fat (%BF) estimates using A-mode US in a heterogeneous sample.

Subjects/Methods

A group of 144 healthy adults (81 men and 63 women), 30.4 (10.1) years (mean (SD)), BMI 24.6 (4.7) kg/m2, completed 6 consecutive measurements of the subcutaneous fat layer thickness at 8 anatomical sites. The measurements were done, alternatively, by two testers, using a BodyMetrix™ instrument. To compute %BF, 4 formulas from the BodyView™ software were applied: 7-sites Jackson and Pollock, 3-sites Jackson and Pollock, 3-sites Pollock, and 1-point biceps.

Results

The formula with the most anatomic sites provided the best reliability quantified by the following measures: intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.979 for Tester 1 (T1) and 0.985 for T2, technical error of measurement (TEM) = 1.07% BF for T1 and 0.89% BF for T2, and minimal detectable change (MDC) = 2.95% BF for T1, and 2.47% BF for T2. The intertester bias was −0.5% BF, whereas the intertester ICC was 0.972. The intertester MDC was 3.43% BF for the entire sample, 3.24% BF for men, and 3.65% BF for women.

Conclusions

A-mode US is highly reliable for %BF assessments, but it is more precise for men than for women. Examiner performance is a source of variability that needs to be mitigated to further improve the precision of this technique.
A meta-analysis on decomposition quantifies afterlife effects of plant diversity as a global change driver
Authors: Mori Akira S. , Cornelissen J. Hans C. , Fujii Saori , Okada Kei-ichi , Isbell Forest
Published: September 2020

Biodiversity loss can alter ecosystem functioning; however, it remains unclear how it alters decomposition—a critical component of biogeochemical cycles in the biosphere. Here, we provide a global-scale meta-analysis to quantify how changes in the diversity of organic matter derived from plants (i.e. litter) affect rates of decomposition. We find that the after-life effects of diversity were significant, and of substantial magnitude, in forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Changes in plant diversity could alter decomposition rates by as much as climate change is projected to alter them. Specifically, diversifying plant litter from mono- to mixed-species increases decomposition rate by 34.7% in forests worldwide, which is comparable in magnitude to the 13.6–26.4% increase in decomposition rates that is projected to occur over the next 50 years in response to climate warming. Thus, biodiversity changes cannot be solely viewed as a response to human influence, such as climate change, but could also be a non-negligible driver of future changes in biogeochemical cycles and climate feedbacks on Earth.
Accelerating eye movement research via accurate and affordable smartphone eye tracking
Authors: Valliappan Nachiappan , Dai Na , Steinberg Ethan , He Junfeng , Rogers Kantwon , Ramachandran Venky , Xu Pingmei , Shojaeizadeh Mina , Guo Li , Kohlhoff Kai , Navalpakkam Vidhya
Published: September 2020

Eye tracking has been widely used for decades in vision research, language and usability. However, most prior research has focused on large desktop displays using specialized eye trackers that are expensive and cannot scale. Little is known about eye movement behavior on phones, despite their pervasiveness and large amount of time spent. We leverage machine learning to demonstrate accurate smartphone-based eye tracking without any additional hardware. We show that the accuracy of our method is comparable to state-of-the-art mobile eye trackers that are 100x more expensive. Using data from over 100 opted-in users, we replicate key findings from previous eye movement research on oculomotor tasks and saliency analyses during natural image viewing. In addition, we demonstrate the utility of smartphone-based gaze for detecting reading comprehension difficulty. Our results show the potential for scaling eye movement research by orders-of-magnitude to thousands of participants (with explicit consent), enabling advances in vision research, accessibility and healthcare.
Concerted localization-resets precede YAP-dependent transcription
Authors: Franklin J. Matthew , Ghosh Rajarshi P. , Shi Quanming , Reddick Michael P. , Liphardt Jan T.
Published: September 2020

Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) is a transcriptional regulator with critical roles in mechanotransduction, organ size control, and regeneration. Here, using advanced tools for real-time visualization of native YAP and target gene transcription dynamics, we show that a cycle of fast exodus of nuclear YAP to the cytoplasm followed by fast reentry to the nucleus (“localization-resets”) activates YAP target genes. These “resets” are induced by calcium signaling, modulation of actomyosin contractility, or mitosis. Using nascent-transcription reporter knock-ins of YAP target genes, we show a strict association between these resets and downstream transcription. Oncogenically-transformed cell lines lack localization-resets and instead show dramatically elevated rates of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of YAP, suggesting an escape from compartmentalization-based control. The single-cell localization and transcription traces suggest that YAP activity is not a simple linear function of nuclear enrichment and point to a model of transcriptional activation based on nucleocytoplasmic exchange properties of YAP.
Tailoring π-conjugation and vibrational modes to steer on-surface synthesis of pentalene-bridged ladder polymers
Authors: de la Torre Bruno , Matěj Adam , Sánchez-Grande Ana , Cirera Borja , Mallada Benjamin , Rodríguez-Sánchez Eider , Santos José , Mendieta-Moreno Jesús I. , Edalatmanesh Shayan , Lauwaet Koen , Otyepka Michal , Medveď Miroslav , Buendía Álvaro , Miranda Rodolfo , Martín Nazario , Jelínek Pavel , Écija David
Published: September 2020

The development of synthetic strategies to engineer π-conjugated polymers is of paramount importance in modern chemistry and materials science. Here we introduce a synthetic protocol based on the search for specific vibrational modes through an appropriate tailoring of the π-conjugation of the precursors, in order to increase the attempt frequency of a chemical reaction. First, we design a 1D π-conjugated polymer on Au(111), which is based on bisanthene monomers linked by cumulene bridges that tune specific vibrational modes. In a second step, upon further annealing, such vibrational modes steer the twofold cyclization reaction between adjacent bisanthene moieties, which gives rise to a long pentalene-bridged conjugated ladder polymer featuring a low bandgap. In addition, high resolution atomic force microscopy allows us to identify by atomistic insights the resonance form of the polymer, thus confirming the validity of the Glidewell and Lloyd´s rules for aromaticity. This on-surface synthetic strategy may stimulate exploiting previously precluded reactions towards π-conjugated polymers with specific structures and properties.
High-speed III-V nanowire photodetector monolithically integrated on Si
Authors: Mauthe Svenja , Baumgartner Yannick , Sousa Marilyne , Ding Qian , Rossell Marta D. , Schenk Andreas , Czornomaz Lukas , Moselund Kirsten E.
Published: September 2020

Direct epitaxial growth of III-Vs on silicon for optical emitters and detectors is an elusive goal. Nanowires enable the local integration of high-quality III-V material, but advanced devices are hampered by their high-aspect ratio vertical geometry. Here, we demonstrate the in-plane monolithic integration of an InGaAs nanostructure p-i-n photodetector on Si. Using free space coupling, photodetectors demonstrate a spectral response from 1200-1700 nm. The 60 nm thin devices, with footprints as low as ~0.06 μm2, provide an ultra-low capacitance which is key for high-speed operation. We demonstrate high-speed optical data reception with a nanostructure photodetector at 32 Gb s−1, enabled by a 3 dB bandwidth exceeding ~25 GHz. When operated as light emitting diode, the p-i-n devices emit around 1600 nm, paving the way for future fully integrated optical links.
Autoreservoir computing for multistep ahead prediction based on the spatiotemporal information transformation
Authors: Chen Pei , Liu Rui , Aihara Kazuyuki , Chen Luonan
Published: September 2020

We develop an auto-reservoir computing framework, Auto-Reservoir Neural Network (ARNN), to efficiently and accurately make multi-step-ahead predictions based on a short-term high-dimensional time series. Different from traditional reservoir computing whose reservoir is an external dynamical system irrelevant to the target system, ARNN directly transforms the observed high-dimensional dynamics as its reservoir, which maps the high-dimensional/spatial data to the future temporal values of a target variable based on our spatiotemporal information (STI) transformation. Thus, the multi-step prediction of the target variable is achieved in an accurate and computationally efficient manner. ARNN is successfully applied to both representative models and real-world datasets, all of which show satisfactory performance in the multi-step-ahead prediction, even when the data are perturbed by noise and when the system is time-varying. Actually, such ARNN transformation equivalently expands the sample size and thus has great potential in practical applications in artificial intelligence and machine learning.