bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential protein expression in the hippocampi of resilient individuals identified by digital spatial profiling
Authors: Walker Jamie M. , Kazempour Dehkordi Shiva , Fracassi Anna , Vanschoiack Alison , Pavenko Anna , Taglialatela Giulio , Woltjer Randall , Richardson Timothy E. , Zare Habil , Orr Miranda E.
Published: February 2022

Clinical symptoms correlate with underlying neurodegenerative changes in the vast majority of people. However, an intriguing group of individuals demonstrate neuropathologic changes consistent with Alzheimer disease (AD) yet remain cognitively normal (termed “resilient”). Previous studies have reported less overall neuronal loss, less gliosis, and fewer comorbidities in these individuals. Herein, NanoString GeoMx™ Digital Spatial Profiler (DSP) technology was utilized to investigate protein expression differences comparing individuals with dementia and AD neuropathologic change to resilient individuals. DSP allows for spatial analysis of protein expression in multiple regions of interest (ROIs) on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded sections. ROIs in this analysis were hippocampal neurofibrillary tangle (NFT)-bearing neurons, non-NFT-bearing neurons, and their immediate neuronal microenvironments. Analyses of 86 proteins associated with CNS cell-typing or known neurodegenerative changes in 168 ROIs from 14 individuals identified 11 proteins displaying differential expression in NFT-bearing neurons of the resilient when compared to the demented (including APP, IDH1, CD68, GFAP, SYP and Histone H3). In addition, IDH1, CD68, and SYP were differentially expressed in the environment of NFT-bearing neurons when comparing resilient to demented. IDH1 (which is upregulated under energetic and oxidative stress) and PINK1 (which is upregulated in response to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress) both displayed lower expression in the environment of NFT-bearing neurons in the resilient. Therefore, the resilient display less evidence of energetic and oxidative stress. Synaptophysin (SYP) was increased in the resilient, which likely indicates better maintenance of synapses and synaptic connections. Furthermore, neurofilament light chain (NEFL) and ubiquitin c-terminal hydrolase (Park5) were higher in the resilient in the environment of NFTs. These differences all suggest healthier intact axons, dendrites and synapses in the resilient. In conclusion, resilient individuals display protein expression patterns suggestive of an environment containing less energetic and oxidative stress, which in turn results in maintenance of neurons and their synaptic connections.
Shell isolated nanoparticle enhanced Raman spectroscopy for mechanistic investigation of electrochemical reactions
Authors: Haryanto Andi , Lee Chan Woo
Published: February 2022

Electrochemical conversion of abundant resources, such as carbon dioxide, water, nitrogen, and nitrate, is a remarkable strategy for replacing fossil fuel-based processes and achieving a sustainable energy future. Designing an efficient and selective electrocatalysis system for electrochemical conversion reactions remains a challenge due to a lack of understanding of the reaction mechanism. Shell-isolated nanoparticle-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS) is a promising strategy for experimentally unraveling a reaction pathway and rate-limiting step by detecting intermediate species and catalytically active sites that occur during the reaction regardless of substrate. In this review, we introduce the SHINERS principle and its historical developments. Furthermore, we discuss recent SHINERS applications and developments for investigating intermediate species involved in a variety of electrocatalytic reactions.
A multicentre simulation study of planar whole-body bone scintigraphy in Sweden
Authors: Gustafsson Agnetha , Örndahl Eva , Minarik David , Cederholm Kerstin , Frantz Sophia , Hagerman Jessica , Johansson Lena , Lindqvist Johan Fredén , Jonsson Cathrine
Published: February 2022

Background

Whole-body bone scintigraphy is a clinically useful non-invasive and highly sensitive imaging method enabling detection of metabolic changes at an early stage of disease, often earlier than with conventional radiologic procedures. Bone scintigraphy is one of the most common nuclear medicine methods used worldwide. Therefore, it is important that the examination is implemented and performed in an optimal manner giving the patient added value in the subsequent care process. The aim of this national multicentre survey was to investigate Swedish nuclear medicine departments compliance with European practice guidelines for bone scintigraphy. In addition, the effect of image acquisition parameters on the ability to detect metabolic lesions was investigated.

Methods

Twenty-five hospital sites participated in the study. The SIMIND Monte Carlo (MC) simulation and the XCAT phantom were used to simulate ten fictive patient cases with increased metabolic activity distributed at ten different locations in the skeleton. The intensity of the metabolic activity was set into six different levels. Individual simulations were performed for each site, corresponding to their specific camera system and acquisition parameters. Simulated image data sets were then sent to each site and were visually evaluated in terms of if there was one or several locations with increased metabolic activity relative to normal activity.

Result

There is a high compliance in Sweden with the EANM guidelines regarding image acquisition parameters for whole-body bone scintigraphy. However, up to 40% of the participating sites acquire lower count density in the images than recommended. Despite this, the image quality was adequate to maintain a stable detection level. None of the hospital sites or individual responders deviated according to the statistical analysis. There is a need for at least 2.5 times metabolic activity compared to normal for a lesion to be detected.

Conclusion

The imaging process is well harmonized throughout the country and there is a high compliance with the EANM guidelines. There is a need for at least 2.5 times the normal metabolic activity for a lesion to be detected as abnormal.
Ultrasound-assessed diaphragmatic dysfunction as a predictor of weaning outcome in mechanically ventilated patients with sepsis in intensive care unit
Authors: Saad Mohamed Ahmed , Nashed Sherif Wadie , El-Shaer Ahmed Nagah , Elagamy Ashraf Elsayed , El derh Maha Sadek
Published: February 2022

Background

Weaning from mechanical ventilation is one of the most common challenges in the intensive care unit (ICU). Most of predictive indices of weaning from mechanical ventilation are often inaccurate. This study was performed to assess the accuracy of diaphragmatic ultrasonography for predicting weaning outcome in mechanically ventilated patients with sepsis in ICU.

Results

Sixty patients with sepsis in medical ICU were prospectively enrolled. All patients were ventilated in pressure support. Patients underwent a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) on T-piece when they met all the following criteria: FiO2 < 0.6, PEEP ≤5 cmH2O, PaO2/FiO2 > 200, respiratory rate <30 breaths per minute, absence of fever, alert and cooperative, hemodynamic stability without or with low-dose vasoactive therapy support, and rapid shallow breathing index (RSBI)<105. During the trial, the patient was instructed to perform deep breathing to total lung capacity (TLC) and then exhaling to residual volume (RV) and the diaphragm was visualized in the 8th or 9th intercostal space between anterior and mid-axillary lines using a 3–5-MHz curved ultrasound probe to measure diaphragmatic excursion (DE) and a 7–11-MHz linear ultrasound probe to measure diaphragmatic thickness (DT) at TLC and RV, and the diaphragmatic thickness fraction (DTF) was calculated as percentage from the following formula (thickness at end inspiration—thickness at end expiration)/thickness at end expiration. According to weaning outcome, patients were divided into 2 groups: successful weaning group and weaning failure group. Weaning failure was defined as the inability to maintain spontaneous breathing for at least 48 h, without any form of ventilatory support.

In the present study, right DTF of more than 37% and DE during deep breathing of more than 6.1 and 5.4 cm on the Rt and Lt side, respectively, were associated with successful weaning from MV. In the study, the sensitivities for right and left DE and DTF were 58.33, 62.5, and 58.33%, respectively, and the pooled specificities were 83.33, 83.33, and 100%, respectively, with p value = 0.032, 0.028, and 0.001, respectively. The area under curve (AUC) for Rt, Lt DE, and DTF were 0.701, 0.712, and 0.840, respectively. The present data indicate a satisfactory diagnostic accuracy in predicting extubation outcome.

Conclusions

Ultrasonography-based determination of diaphragm function by assessing DTF and DE can be used as predictor of weaning outcome in mechanically ventilated patients with sepsis.
Genome-editing opportunities to enhance cattle productivity in the tropics
Authors: de Almeida Camargo Luiz Sergio , Pereira Jorge Fernando
Published: February 2022

The livestock performance in tropical regions has been limited by environmental conditions that causes heat stress and favors the development of parasites and diseases, impairing animal health. Heat stress disturbs animal homeostasis and affects animal production and fertility, with negative impacts on meat and milk quality. Flies and ticks proliferate easily under hot-humid weather, which makes difficult the control of their population, resulting in an increased parasitism. Tropical pastures usually have high dry matter production, but it is challenging to keep high production and quality under different environmental conditions throughout the year, constraining animal performance. Several strategies have been adopted in an attempt to overcome such hurdles in the tropical regions, but definitive solutions are yet to be implemented. In the last 20 years, biotechnologies, such as in vitro embryo production and genomic selection, have played an important role on cattle production in tropical countries. Genome editing (GnEd) is the novel tool in the toolbox for cattle production. GnEd with genomic selection offers the opportunity to boost the genetic gain in breeding programs of tropical cattle in fewer generations. It can be applied for disease resistance, to control parasite population, and to improve pasture quality and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses, favoring animal health and nutrition. Moreover, there is a perspective for the use of GnEd to control cattle methane emission by editing genes of methanogens present in the rumen. Although GnEd can already be applied to improve some traits, studies are still required for the identification of candidate genes in animals, tropical pastures, parasites, and microorganisms that can be targeted by gene editing in order to offer a robust contribution to the improvement of cattle production in the hot regions. Some examples of the use of GnEd are presented in this review, focusing on new perspectives of using GnEd to increase cattle production under the challenges of the tropical environments.
Architectural typology of rural housing in Jaen, Peru
Authors: Peña-Huaman Floiran , Sifuentes-Rivera Diego , Yarasca-Aybar Cristian
Published: February 2022

Jaén is one of the most important cities in the northern highlands of Peru due to its strategic location, commerce, and agricultural activities. Jaén has more than 185 thousand inhabitants, of which 48% live in rural areas, representing approximately 31 thousand rural housing. This research aims to determine the types of rural housing in Jaén, showing the possible variations and architectural manifestations due to the territorial and cultural characteristics. A field observation sheet has been used to study the rural dwellings of populated centres previously classified by altitudinal regions. The results show six architectural types of rural housing classified into two groups: “rural-residential housing” and “rural-agricultural housing”. These architectural types are generally located near water sources, within agricultural plots, and on hillsides. The architectural program is characterised by agricultural activity and family composition, which has grown over time. The most commonly used construction systems are “pirca” and “quincha”, using natural materials such as “ichu” and adobe. There is also evidence of cultural traditions rooted in the construction, such as “cambio de fuerzas”, “paracaico”, and “minga”. Therefore, the relevance of Jaén’s rural housing is its geographical reading of the territory through the architectural and cultural legacy of these buildings.
Microfluidic systems for modeling human development
Authors: Bonner Makenzie G. , Gudapati Hemanth , Mou Xingrui , Musah Samira
Published: February 2022

The proper development and patterning of organs rely on concerted signaling events emanating from intracellular and extracellular molecular and biophysical cues. The ability to model and understand how these microenvironmental factors contribute to cell fate decisions and physiological processes is crucial for uncovering the biology and mechanisms of life. Recent advances in microfluidic systems have provided novel tools and strategies for studying aspects of human tissue and organ development in ways that have previously been challenging to explore ex vivo. Here, we discuss how microfluidic systems and organs-on-chips provide new ways to understand how extracellular signals affect cell differentiation, how cells interact with each other, and how different tissues and organs are formed for specialized functions. We also highlight key advancements in the field that are contributing to a broad understanding of human embryogenesis, organogenesis and physiology. We conclude by summarizing the key advantages of using dynamic microfluidic or microphysiological platforms to study intricate developmental processes that cannot be accurately modeled by using traditional tissue culture vessels. We also suggest some exciting prospects and potential future applications of these emerging technologies.
An Intelligent Superhydrophilic/Underwater Superoleophobic Temperature Sensitive Switch Device with Excellent Targeted Oil-Water Separation Performance
Authors: Li Congcong , Feng Huixia , Xu Haidong , Chen Baiyi , Yang Tiantian
Published: February 2022

Oil/water separation has become a global challenge as more and more oily wastewater is generated from oil spills and industrial wastewater. Super-wetting fuctional materials in oil-water separation has obvious advantages such as high efficiency, simple craft and potential to intelligentialize. But traditional superhydrophobic/superlipophilic oil-water separation material is easily blocked and damaged by oil. Here, a temperature-sensitive superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobic switch device (TS-PNIPAM-Ni) was prepared using a poly-N-isopropylacrylamide (PNIPAM) hydrogel and magnetic hydrophobic foamed nickel through a one-step solution dipping method. The separation efficiency of TS-PNIPAM-Ni to dichloroethane-water can reach up to 100% and maintain a separation efficiency of more than 99.9% after the completion of 10 separation cycles, and the oil-water separation stops above 34 °C and captures water droplets intelligently. The micro-morphology, micro-structure and components of TS-PNIPAM-Ni and PNIPAM were analyzed with FTIR, SEM and EDS. The TS-PNIPAM-Ni shows excellent superhydrophilic/underwater superoleophobicity, good temperature sensitivity and magnetic navigation function.
Vessel masking and Hough transform for optic disc localisation from retinal images
Authors: Ali Aziah , Wan Zaki Wan Mimi Diyana , Hussain Aini , Hashim Noramiza , Mohd Isa Wan Noorshahida
Published: February 2022

Background: Retinal images can be considered as one of the reliable indicators for symptoms of many ocular diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and glaucoma. By analysing and tracking changes of important structures on a retinal image, symptoms of ocular diseases can be detected in a timely manner which helps physicians plan early treatment for better disease control. One of the important landmarks on a retinal image is the optic disc (OD), which must be localised to estimate retinal vessel parameters such as vessel width and tortuosity. This paper proposes a method for automatic OD localisation from a retinal image.

Methods: A retinal image is first pre-processed and thresholded to produce a binary image that highlights most retinal vessels on the image. Next, a discrete cosine transform-based smoothing method is employed to replace the detected vessel pixel values on the pre-processed image with values closer to the surrounding neighbour pixel values, effectively masking most vessels on the image. Hough transform is then applied to the vessel-masked image to detect the circle representing the OD on the image, producing the estimated location of the OD center and its estimated diameter.

Results: Applying the proposed method to three different public databases, namely Digital Retinal Images for Vessel Extraction (DRIVE), High-Resolution Fundus (HRF) and Methods to Evaluate Segmentation and Indexing Techniques in the field of Retinal Ophthalmology (MESSIDOR) resulted in an overall detection rate of 99.53%.

Conclusions: The achieved performance by the proposed method is superior to many published methods of OD localization, with a processing time of less than one second for each image. While this has only been validated on one type of retinal images, future investigations may include validation on other types such as angiograms or scanning laser ophthalmoscopy.
New Discovery of Covid-19 Natural-Based Potential Antivirus Herbal Supplement Products from Pinang Yaki (Areca vestiaria) Extract: A Preliminary Study by Untargeted Metabolomic Profiling
Authors: Simbala Herny Emma Inonta , Nurkolis Fahrul , Mayulu Nelly , Rotty Linda Wilhelma Ancella
Published: February 2022

Background: Pinang yaki has bioactive compounds that have potential as a new herbal supplement. A better understanding of the bioactive compounds of pinang yaki using untargeted metabolomic profiling studies will provide clearer insight into the health benefits of pinang yaki and in particular its potential for the therapy and prevention of Covid-19.  

Methods: Fresh samples of pinang yaki (Areca vestiaria) are obtained from forests in North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. Samples were used for untargeted metabolomics analysis by UPLC-MS.  

Results: Based on an untargeted metabolomic profiling study of pinang yaki, 2504 compounds in ESI- and 2645 compounds in ESI+ were successfully obtained. After the analysis, 356 compounds in ESI- and 543 compounds in ESI+ were identified successfully. Major compounds Alpha-Chlorohydrin (PubChem ID: 7290) and Tagatose (PubChem ID: 439312) were found in ESI+ and ESI-.  

Discussion: The Top 10 metabolites from pinang yaki extract (ESI+) juga have been indicated in preventing SARS Cov2 infection and have exhibited good neuroprotective immunity. Benzothiazole (PubChem ID: 7222), L-isoleucine (PubChem ID: 6306), D-glucono-delta-lactone (PubChem ID: 736), Diethylpyrocarbonate (PubChem ID: 3051), Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) amine (PubChem ID: 7791), Cinnamic acid (PubChem ID: 444539), and Trigonelline (PubChem ID: 5570) also had potential effects as an antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-Covid19.

Conclusion: Untargeted metabolomic profiling showed many bioactive compounds contained in pinang yaki (Areca vestiaria) extract. The top 10 compounds have been identified and explored for their potential benefits as anti-Covid19 supplement products. This is a preliminary study which still needs further research such as preclinical and clinical trials.
Modelling sociodemographic factors that affect malaria prevalence in Sussundenga, Mozambique: a cross-sectional study.
Authors: Ferrao Joao , Earland Dominique , Novela Anisio , Mendes Roberto , Ballat Marcos , Tungadza Alberto , Searle Kelly
Published: February 2022

Background: Malaria is still one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in Mozambique with little progress in malaria control over the past 20 years. Sussundenga is one of most affected areas. Malaria transmission has a strong association with environmental and sociodemographic factors. The knowledge of sociodemographic factors that affects malaria, may be used to improve the strategic planning for its control. Currently such studies have not been performed in Sussundenga. Thus, the objective of this study is to model the relationship between malaria and sociodemographic factors in Sussundenga, Mozambique.

Methods: Houses in the study area were digitalized and enumerated using Google Earth Pro version 7.3. In this study 100 houses were randomly selected to conduct a community survey of Plasmodium falciparum parasite prevalence using rapid diagnostic test (RDT). During the survey, a questionnaire was conducted to assess the sociodemographic factors of the participants. Descriptive statistics were analyzed and backward stepwise logistic regression was performed establishing a relationship between positive cases and the factors. The analysis was carried out using SPSS version 20 package.

Results: The overall P. falciparum prevalence was 31.6%. Half of the malaria positive cases occurred in age group 5 to 14 years. Previous malaria treatment, population density and age group were significant predictors for the model. The model explained 13.5% of the variance in malaria positive cases and sensitivity of the final model was 73.3%.

Conclusion: In this area the highest burden of P. falciparum infection was among those aged 5–14 years old. Malaria infection was related to sociodemographic factors. Targeting malaria control at community level can combat the disease more effectively than waiting for cases at health centers. These finding can be used to guide more effective interventions in this region.
An overview of the establishment of a national contact tracing programme: a quality improvement approach in a time of pandemic
Authors: Martin Jennifer , Carroll Ciara , Khurshid Zuneera , Moore Gemma , Cosgrove Grainne , Conway Robert , Buckley Claire , Browne Mary , Flynn Maureen , Doyle Sarah
Published: February 2022

Background: With the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the Irish health system needed a contact tracing and management intervention at a national level to undertake high volume, low complexity contact tracing. This paper describes the establishment and first year of a national Contact Management Programme (CMP) in Ireland, its core components, outcomes on key measures (coverage, timeliness, and training) and learnings from the process.

Methods: CMP is centred on four steps, 1) case: rapid notification to a person of a result and provision of advice, 2) contacts: rapid identification of contacts, 3) control: rapid public health management of contacts, which includes testing and 4) active follow-up of close contacts with additional testing and public health advice reminder SMS and calls. The outcome measures used in this study are: 1) The proportion of all Irish cases contact traced through the CMP (Coverage), 2) the time taken to complete the 3 types of CMP calls (timeliness), 3) number of contact tracers trained and their feedback (training).

Results: 246,666 positive cases were recorded using the CMP between 17th March 2020 and 30th April 2021, with contact tracing successfully completed for 237,759 cases, representing 99% and 96%, respectively, of the 248,529 cases notified in Ireland up to the 30th of April 2021. The average time taken for contact tracing to be completed was 29.4 hours (95% CI 28.9, 29.9) and the median was 16.8 hours (approximate 95% CI 15.9, 17.7).

Conclusion: Using the Quality Improvement (QI) approach, the Health Service Executive (HSE) successfully established and scaled up a Contact Management Programme that rapidly notified results to people and traced their close contacts. CMP contributed to the success of the Irish health service in managing the pandemic. CMP slowed COVID-19 transmission and lessened the impact on health services capacity.
“We threw away the stones”: a mixed method evaluation of a simple cookstove intervention in Malawi
Authors: Saleh Sepeedeh , Sambakunsi Henry , Makina Debora , Kumwenda Moses , Rylance Jamie , Chinouya Martha , Mortimer Kevin
Published: February 2022

Background:Exposure to air pollution is responsible for a substantial burden of respiratory disease globally. Household air pollution from cooking using biomass is a major contributor to overall exposure in rural low-income settings. Previous research in Malawi has revealed how precarity and food insecurity shape individuals’ daily experiences, contributing to perceptions of health. Aiming to avoid a mismatch between research intervention and local context, we introduced a simple cookstove intervention in rural Malawi, analysing change in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposures, and community perceptions.

Methods:Following a period of baseline ethnographic research, we distributed‘chitetezo mbaula’, locally made clay cookstoves, to all households (n=300) in a rural Malawian village. Evaluation incorporated village-wide participant observation and concurrent exposure monitoring using portable PM2.5monitors at baseline and follow-up (three months post-intervention). Qualitative data were thematically analysed. Quantitative analysis of exposure data included pre-post intervention comparisons, with datapoints divided into cooking and non-cooking (‘baseline’) periods. Findings were integrated at the interpretation stage, using a convergent design mode of synthesis.

Results:Individual exposure monitoring pre- and post-cookstove intervention  involved a sample of 18 participants (15 female; mean age 43). Post-intervention PM2.5exposures (median 9.9μg/m3[interquartile range: 2.2–46.5]) were not significantly different to pre-intervention (11.8μg/m3[3.8–44.4]); p=0.71. On analysis by activity, ‘baseline’ exposures were found to be reduced post-intervention (from 8.2μg/m3[2.5–22.0] to 4.6μg/m3[1.0–12.6]; p=0.01). Stoves were well-liked and widely used by residents as substitutes for previous cooking methods (mainly three-stone fires). Most cited benefits related to fuel saving and shorter cooking times.

Conclusions:The cookstove intervention had no impact on cooking-related PM2.5exposures. A significant reduction in baseline exposures may relate to reduced smouldering emissions. Uptake and continued use of the stoves was high amongst community members, who preferred using the stoves to cooking over open fires.
Internal Audit in the Context of Industry 4.0
Authors: Zaharov Igor' , Glazkova G.
Published: February 2022

The article discusses issues of improving audit activity in the conditions of economic activity in the transition from the economy of knowledge to the economy of mind. Special attention is paid to the concept of improving audit in the conditions of formation of the digital economy.
Perspectivas conceptuales de los cuidados paliativos en el final de la vida: revisión sistemática
Authors: León Perilla Viviana Marcela , Vitale Torkomian Joaquim Regina Helena
Published: February 2022

Introducción: la asistencia cualificada en el fin de la vida todavía es un desafío internacional. El uso frecuente de los términos como cuidados paliativos y fin de la vida tienen implicaciones en el pronóstico del paciente y en la toma de decisiones efectiva para la oferta de cuidado adecuado. Pero, ¿su comprensión terminológica es de uso común en la literatura? El objetivo fue el empleo de los términos utilizados en la literatura científica nacional brasileña e internacional sobre la práctica paliativa en la fase final de la vida y describir la comprensión terminológica relacionada por sus características de uso. Materiales y métodos: revisión sistemática exploratoria en las bases de dados Lilacs y Pubmed, en el periodo de 2012 a 2017, empleando los descriptores “final de vida”, “fase terminal”, “cuidados paliativos” y “cuidados enhospice”. Resultados: fueron encontrados 1909 artículos y seleccionados 10. Se identificó una prevalencia de estudios médicos norteamericanos, con un contenido metodológico heterogéneo que presentaron propuestas conceptuales diversificadas. Conclusión: los artículos analizados reforzaron la necesidad de trabajar en la diseminación conceptual de los cuidados paliativos, detallando las implicaciones de la asociación a abordaje apenas, al final de la vida, factor que dificulta el proceso de mejoría en la calidad de la asistencia en la muerte.
Initial Coin Offering (ICO) Success and Post-ICO Performance
Authors: Lyandres Evgeny , Palazzo Berardino , Rabetti Daniel
Published: February 2022

We compile a comprehensive data set of initial coin offerings (ICOs) from 19 data sources including 11 ICO aggregators. We alleviate severe limitations of available ICO data by performing the first systematic analysis of ICO data quality. We use our data set to study determinants of ICO funding success as well as post-ICO operating performance and provide evidence on some novel determinants of initial and longer-term ICO success. Finally, we show that post-ICO operating performance is positively associated with contemporaneous token returns and is generally negatively associated with token return volatility, suggesting that post-ICO operating performance has financial ramifications.

This paper was accepted by Kay Giesecke, finance.

Supplemental Material: Data are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.4312 .
ANALISIS SEMIOTIKA PIERCE: PERBANDINGAN POSTER IKLAN SAMPO DI TIONGKOK DAN INDONESIA
Authors: Kunmei Li , Indira Dian , Soeria Soemantri Ypsi , Lupi Ardiati Riza
Published: February 2022

Advertisements are packaged in such a way that it is very influential to convey messages and at the same time influence or suggest products to the public. In shampoo advertisements from one country to another, there are cultural peculiarities of the people. This research has a problem formulation, namely the character of shampoo advertising culture in China and Indonesia. In solving the problem formulation, this research uses Pierce's semiotic theory using data in the form of advertisements for the Pantene, Clear, and Sunsilk shampoo brands. The analysis is carried out with a qualitative method. The results of this study show that shampoo advertisements in China and Indonesia in general have similarities with displaying a picture of a woman, but both have their own character that shows a picture of the people of their respective countries.
Reviews: Komodo National Park as a conservation area for the komodo species (Varanus komodoensis) and sustainable tourism (ecotourism)
Authors: HIDYARKO AKMALIA IMBI FEBRIYANTI , GAYATRI ALDILA CAHYA , RIFA VIRA AINU , Astuti Ayu , KUSUMANINGRUM LIA , MAU YOSEP S. , RUDIHARTO HERU , SETYAWAN AHMAD DWI
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Hidyarko AIF, Gayatri AC, Rifa VA, Astuti A, Kusumaningrum L, Mau YS, Rudiharto H, Setyawan AD. 2021. Komodo National Park as a conservation area for the komodo species (Varanus komodoensis) and sustainable ecotourism. Intl J Trop Drylands 5: 27-40. Komodo National Park (East Nusa Tenggara Province, Indonesia) is a biodiversity conservation area with the main aim to protect the original habitat and remaining population of Komodo dragon species (Varanus komodoensis Ouwens, 1912). Nonetheless, the area also has great potential as one of the objects of tourist attraction. The purpose of this study is to see the sustainable function of conservation and tourism in Komodo National Park. Komodo National Park covers land area of more than 603 square kilometers and 1214 square kilometers of marine habitat. The land habitats have 277 species of animals while the marine habitats have 253 species of corals, more than 1,000 species of fish, and 25 species of whales and dolphins. One of the main attractions of the Komodo National Park area is the ancient giant reptile of the Komodo dragon (Varanus komodoensis). The tourism management of Komodo National Park (KNP) is currently done through an ecotourism approach. The tourism zone is determined based on part of the Komodo National Park which has the potential for land and marine tourism with a diversity of flora and fauna. The participation of communities living around KNP in the ecotourism business can increase local economics and conservation awareness; as well as their participation in conservation. Meanwhile, the factors that hinder community participation in tourism development are limited budget, apathy and low public awareness, fluctuations in tourist visits, and difficulties in marketing ecotourism products.
A screening of resistance to sweet potato weevil (Cylas formicarius Fab.) in a collection of sweet potato clones under laboratory conditions
Authors: Mau Yosep S. , Wadu Margerita , Ndiwa Antonius S.S. , Markus Jenny E.R. , Arsa I G.B. Adwita
Published: February 2022

Abstract. Mau YS, Wadu MN, Ndiwa ASS, Markus JER, Arsa IGBA. 2021. A screening of resistance to sweet potato weevil (Cylas formicarius Fab.) in a collection of sweet potato clones under laboratory conditions. Intl J Trop Drylands 5: 41-47. Sweet potato is a potential carbohydrate source as a rice substitute in Indonesia, especially in East Nusa Tenggara (ENT). However, the productivity of this crop is still low at the farmer level due to, among others, the use of low-yielding varieties and yield loss caused by sweet potato weevil (SPW), Cylas formicarius. The use of SPW resistant varieties is considered the most effective and eco-friendly way of controlling the pest. However, the availability of resistant varieties is currently limited. This study aimed to evaluate the SPW-induced damage intensity and SPW-resistance level in a collection of sweet potato clones. The study was conducted in the laboratory of Universitas Nusa Cendana, Kupang, Indonesia. Observed variables included the percentage of damaged roots, the intensity of root damage, the number of C. formicarius per root, the number of feeding tunnels per root, root epidermal thickness, and root latex level. Observed data were subjected to analysis of variance followed by Duncan's post hoc test of 5%, except root latex level that was subjected to descriptive analysis. A correlation analysis was also performed. The damaged root percentage ranged from 77.8% to 100%, and the intensity of root damage was from 14.0% to 76.6%. The laboratory assay categorized the tested genotypes into Moderately Resistant, Moderately Susceptible, and Susceptible levels, with the Resistant category being absent. The SPWs ranged from 1.4 to 31.9 per root, while the number of feeding tunnels ranged from 1.4 to 31.1 per root. The observed sweet potato genotypes possessed root epidermal thickness between 1 mm to 4 mm, and the root latex was low to a high level. The study revealed a strong correlation between the damaged root intensity and the number of feeding tunnels per root or SPWs per root. A highly positive correlation was also observed between the number of SPWs and the number of feeding tunnels per root. A weak and positive correlation was found between root epidermal thickness and the number of SPWs or feeding tunnels per root.
Analysing boundaries of health and social care in policy and media reform narratives
Authors: van Duijn Sarah , Bannink Duco , Nies Henk
Published: February 2022

Collaboration has become an imperative of many new healthcare policies; however, little attention has been paid to how system-level narratives in both policy documents and the media create boundaries that shape implementation processes. By using boundary work as a theoretical lens, this article critically analyses the discourse found in both policy documents and the media surrounding the 2015 Dutch LTC reform. This discourse analysis contributes, first, by revealing two separate narratives – one epic, one tragic – which we argue represent different rhetorical styles used to (de-)legitimise symbolic boundaries. Second, we contribute by unravelling boundary work in both the social and symbolic dimensions to show how the design of the 2015 reform led to a tension-ridden position for local actors: symbolic boundaries demanded integration, while social boundaries imposed differentiation. These findings have implications for literature on boundary work as well as for policy design and its local implementation.
The role of NGO administrative data in understanding the impact of COVID-19 on survivors of domestic abuse
Authors: Smith Katie , Davidge Sarah
Published: February 2022

COVID-19 quickly changed the context of domestic abuse in England. Within weeks of the first COVID-19 related death, the country was in lockdown. A quick response was essential for understanding the needs of survivors. With limited time to establish new data collection mechanisms, the role of administrative data was central in shaping the response by the Women’s Aid Federation of England. This article explores the opportunities and challenges of using administrative data to understand and respond to the impact of COVID-19 on survivors of domestic abuse in England, using analysis by Women’s Aid of administrative data as a case study. The article discusses the challenges, such as the complexity of analysing a longitudinal administrative dataset, and the need for increased skills and capacity within the NGO research environment. We also reflect on ethical considerations in light of the context of frontline workers responding to the pandemic, the opportunities for collaboration with other sector partners and academics and the benefits of being able to undertake reactive analysis to inform policy. The article concludes that our access to administrative data bolstered our ability to respond expediently to the pandemic, and achieve the long-term benefits of the partnerships that we built during this time.
Calculation of the modified control matrix for a selected unimorph
deformable mirror to compensate the piezoelectric hysteresis effect using
the inverse Bouc–Wen model
Authors: Aghababayee M. A. , Mosayebi M. , Saghafifar H.
Published: February 2022

The hysteresis behavior of piezoelectric actuators degrades the positioning accuracy
and bandwidth of nano-positioning systems. Therefore, considering the
hysteresis of piezoelectric deformable mirrors is completely essential
and also improves the modeling accuracy of adaptive optics layouts.
Because of the unique adaptability and mathematical flexibility of the
Bouc–Wen model it has gained popularity, and as a result, in many
scientific applications, it is one of the most conventional models
typically employed to describe nonlinear hysteretic systems. Among
different deformable mirrors, a unimorph piezoelectric deformable
mirror is a suitable choice to be used in adaptive optics systems
because of its relative convenience and cost-effective production.
This paper proposes a new, to the best of our knowledge, approach to
determine the influence function and the voltage control matrix of a
specific unimorph mirror by considering a simplified inverse Bouc–Wen
hysteresis model as a frequency function. Then the results for two
selected standard Zernike modes, defocus and astigmatism-x, have been
simulated using Comsol Multiphysics and MATLAB at a range of 5 to
100 Hz. For a more comprehensive comparison, the root-mean-square
error and the coefficients of the Zernike terms have been applied as
two criteria. According to the simulation results, the hysteresis
effect of piezoelectric actuators has been significantly compensated
by applying the inverse Bouc–Wen model at different frequencies,
especially for higher frequencies. The effectiveness of the inverse
Bouc–Wen model to compensate the hysteresis has been observed in
astigmatism-x mode slightly more than in the defocus
mode.
Comprehensive design analysis and verification of space-based short-wave infrared coded spectrometer via curved prism dispersion
Authors: Jia Xin-Yin , Li Xi-Jie , Hu Bing-Liang , Li Li-Bo , Wang Fei-Cheng , Zhang Zhao-Hui , Yang Ying , Ke Shan-Liang , Zou Chun-bo , Liu Jia , Li Si-yuan
Published: February 2022

The spaceborne dispersive spectrometer is widely used in environmental, resource, and
ocean observations. The coded spectrometer has higher energy
advantages than the dispersion spectrometer, so it has great
application prospects. In the current study, we developed an off-axis
short-wave infrared coded optical system (SICOS) based on curved prism
dispersion, and we further explored the design and optimization of the
SICOS structure. Finite element analyses of a space-based short-wave
infrared coded spectrometer based on curved prism dispersion
(SSICS-CPD), including static simulation, modal analysis, sinusoidal
vibration mechanical analysis, and random vibration mechanical
analysis, were carried out. Simulation results showed that the SICOS
support structure had excellent mechanical and thermal stability. As
off-axis optical systems cannot meet the requirements of optical
position accuracy through centering processing, a point source
microscope and three-coordinate measuring machines were employed to
complete the high-precision and rapid assembly of the SSICS-CPD. In
addition, verification tests of surface shape error, stress relief,
random vibration, and optical design parameters were carried out to
validate the high stability and imaging performance of the SSICS-CPD.
Results showed that the average modulation transfer function in the
full field was 0.43 at 16.67 lp/mm, the spectral smile was

<

0.2

pixels, and the spectral keystone was

<

0.1

pixels. The design, analysis,
assembly, and verification of the SSICS-CPD provide a useful reference
for the development of other spaceborne prism dispersion
spectrometers.
Computational modelling of cell motility modes emerging from cell-matrix adhesion dynamics
Authors: van Steijn Leonie , Wortel Inge M. N. , Sire Clément , Dupré Loïc , Theraulaz Guy , Merks Roeland M. H.
Published: February 2022

Lymphocytes have been described to perform different motility patterns such as Brownian random walks, persistent random walks, and Lévy walks. Depending on the conditions, such as confinement or the distribution of target cells, either Brownian or Lévy walks lead to more efficient interaction with the targets. The diversity of these motility patterns may be explained by an adaptive response to the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). Indeed, depending on the ECM composition, lymphocytes either display a floating motility without attaching to the ECM, or sliding and stepping motility with respectively continuous or discontinuous attachment to the ECM, or pivoting behaviour with sustained attachment to the ECM. Moreover, on the long term, lymphocytes either perform a persistent random walk or a Brownian-like movement depending on the ECM composition. How the ECM affects cell motility is still incompletely understood. Here, we integrate essential mechanistic details of the lymphocyte-matrix adhesions and lymphocyte intrinsic cytoskeletal induced cell propulsion into a Cellular Potts model (CPM). We show that the combination of de novo cell-matrix adhesion formation, adhesion growth and shrinkage, adhesion rupture, and feedback of adhesions onto cell propulsion recapitulates multiple lymphocyte behaviours, for different lymphocyte subsets and various substrates. With an increasing attachment area and increased adhesion strength, the cells’ speed and persistence decreases. Additionally, the model predicts random walks with short-term persistent but long-term subdiffusive properties resulting in a pivoting type of motility. For small adhesion areas, the spatial distribution of adhesions emerges as a key factor influencing cell motility. Small adhesions at the front allow for more persistent motility than larger clusters at the back, despite a similar total adhesion area. In conclusion, we present an integrated framework to simulate the effects of ECM proteins on cell-matrix adhesion dynamics. The model reveals a sufficient set of principles explaining the plasticity of lymphocyte motility.
Post-insemination selection dominates pre-insemination selection in driving rapid evolution of male competitive ability
Authors: Kasimatis Katja R. , Moerdyk-Schauwecker Megan J. , Lancaster Ruben , Smith Alexander , Willis John H. , Phillips Patrick C.
Published: February 2022

Sexual reproduction is a complex process that contributes to differences between the sexes and divergence between species. From a male’s perspective, sexual selection can optimize reproductive success by acting on the variance in mating success (pre-insemination selection) as well as the variance in fertilization success (post-insemination selection). The balance between pre- and post-insemination selection has not yet been investigated using a strong hypothesis-testing framework that directly quantifies the effects of post-insemination selection on the evolution of reproductive success. Here we use experimental evolution of a uniquely engineered genetic system that allows sperm production to be turned off and on in obligate male-female populations of Caenorhabditis elegans. We show that enhanced post-insemination competition increases the efficacy of selection and surpasses pre-insemination sexual selection in driving a polygenic response in male reproductive success. We find that after 10 selective events occurring over 30 generations post-insemination selection increased male reproductive success by an average of 5- to 7-fold. Contrary to expectation, enhanced pre-insemination competition hindered selection and slowed the rate of evolution. Furthermore, we found that post-insemination selection resulted in a strong polygenic response at the whole-genome level. Our results demonstrate that post-insemination sexual selection plays a critical role in the rapid optimization of male reproductive fitness. Therefore, explicit consideration should be given to post-insemination dynamics when considering the population effects of sexual selection.
Effects of Catha Edulis Forsk on spatial learning, memory and correlation with serum electrolytes in wild-type male white albino rats
Authors: Limenie Abebaye Aragaw , Dugul Tesfaye Tolessa , Eshetu Eyasu Mekonnen
Published: February 2022

Background

The burdens of psychostimulant use disorders are becoming a worldwide problem. One of the psychostimulants widely consumed in Ethiopia and East African countries isCatha edulisForsk (khat). However, no studies have been conducted on the cognitive effects of khat and its correlation with serum electrolytes. The present study was aimed to evaluate the effects of khat on spatial learning and memory and their correlation with serum electrolytes.

Materials and methods

Diethyl ether and chloroform (3:1v/v ratio) were solvents used to obtain the crude khat extract in this study. T80W was used to prepare the khat juice, fresh khat leave extract. The rats were received crude khat extract subchronically (KESC) (100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg b.w), khat juice (KHJ 2.5 mL/kg), 2% tween 80 in distilled water (T80W- v/v, vehicle) and khat extract subacutely (KESA) (300 mg/kg). For subchronic treatment, each rat was administered for twelve weeks before Morris water maze experiment has been started, while it was administered for a week for acute treatment. Spatial learning and memory were measured using the Morris water maze model and serum sodium, calcium, potassium, and chloride were evaluated using Cobas 6000.

Results

Spatial learning was improved with trials across the groups, while average escape latency (s) of rats received KESC 200 mg/kg (p<0.001), KESC 300 mg/kg (p<0.01) and KHJ 2.5 mL/kg (p<0.05) was significantly greater than rats that received vehicle. There was no significant difference in the latency between rats that received KESA 300mg/kg and vehicle (p>0.05). Thigmotaxis was significantly higher in rats that received all doses of khat extract (p<0.001). The time spent in the target quadrant in rats that received KESC 300 mg/kg was significantly reduced (p<0.05). Serum calcium level was inversely correlated with the escape latency (R = -0.417, p<0.05) in rats that received khat.

Conclusions

Khat extract and juice administered subchronically, but not subacutely, impaired learning and memory and was associated with serum calcium reduction. The neuronal basis for such alteration should be investigated.