bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biologically-relevant transfer learning improves transcription factor binding prediction
Authors: Novakovsky Gherman , Saraswat Manu , Fornes Oriol , Mostafavi Sara , Wasserman Wyeth W.
Published: December 2020

Background

Deep learning has proven to be a powerful technique for transcription factor (TF) binding prediction, but requires large training datasets. Transfer learning can reduce the amount of data required for deep learning, while improving overall model performance, compared to training a separate model for each new task.

Results

We assess a transfer learning strategy for TF binding prediction consisting of a pre-training step, wherein we train a multi-task model with multiple TFs, and a fine-tuning step, wherein we initialize single-task models for individual TFs with the weights learned by the multi-task model, after which the single-task models are trained at a lower learning rate. We corroborate that transfer learning improves model performance, especially if in the pre-training step the multi-task model is trained with biologically-relevant TFs. We show the effectiveness of transfer learning for TFs with ∼500 ChIP-seq peak regions. Using model interpretation techniques, we demonstrate that the features learned in the pre-training step are refined in the fine-tuning step to resemble the binding motif of the target TF (i.e. the recipient of transfer learning in the fine-tuning step). Moreover, pre-training with biologically-relevant TFs allows single-task models in the fine-tuning step to learn features other than the motif of the target TF.

Conclusions

Our results confirm that transfer learning is a powerful technique for TF binding prediction.
Identification and classification of innexin gene transcripts in the central nervous system of the terrestrial slugLimax valentianus
Authors: Sadamoto Hisayo , Takahashi Hironobu , Kobayashi Suguru , Kondoh Hirooki , Tokumaru Hiroshi
Published: December 2020

In invertebrates, innexin is involved in the formation of single-cell membrane channels and intercellular gap junction channels. Generally, there are multiple isoforms of innexin family proteins in various animal species, which enable the precise regulation of channel function. In molluscan species, the sequence information of innexins is still limited and the sequences have not been classified.

This study examined the innexin transcripts expressed in the central nervous system of the terrestrial slugLimax valentianusand identified 16 transcripts of 12 innexin isoforms, including the splicing variants. To examine the function of molluscan innexin isoforms, phylogenetic analysis was performed using the innexin sequences of molluscan species. Next, the phosphorylation, N-glycosylation, and S-nitrosylation sites in the isoforms were predicted to characterize the innexin isoforms. Further, 16 circular RNA sequences of nine innexin isoforms were identified in the central nervous system ofLimax. The identification and classification of the gene transcripts of molluscan innexins provided novel insights for understanding the regulatory mechanism of innexins in the central nervous system.
Drinking habits and executive functioning: a propensity score-weighted analysis of 78,832 adults
Authors: Schweren Lizanne JS , Haavik Jan , Li Lin , Solberg Berit Skretting , Larsson Henrik , Hartman Catharina A
Published: December 2020

Excessive alcohol intake compromises cognitive functioning. At the same time, moderate alcohol consumption is reported to protect against Alzheimer’s disease among elderly. Little is known about dose-dependent effects of alcohol consumption on higher-order cognitive functioning among generally healthy adults. Here, we applied propensity weighted analyses to investigate associations between habitual drinking patterns and executive functioning in the general population.

A community sample of N=78,832 Dutch adults (age 18-65, 40.9% male) completed the Ruff Figural Fluency Task of executive functioning (range 1-165), and self-reported their past month consumption of alcoholic beverages on a food frequency questionnaire. Participants were stratified according to drinking level (abstinent [22.0%], occasional [<2.5 g/day, 21.4%], light [2.5–14.9 g/day, 42.9%], moderate [15–29.9 g/day, 11.4%], or heavy [>30 g/day, 2.3%]) and binge-drinking (yes [10.6%] vs. no [89.4%]). Groups were equivalised using multinomial propensity score weighing based on demographic, socioeconomic, health-related and psychosocial factors influencing drinking behaviour.

Compared to abstinent participants, task performance was better among light drinkers (β[95% CI]=0.056[0.033-0.078] or +1.3 points, p<0.0001) and moderate drinkers (β[95% CI]=0.111[0.079-0.143] or +2.5 points, p<0.0001), but not among occasional drinkers (β[95% CI]=0.018[-0.006-0.043], p=0.1432) or heavy drinkers (β[95% CI]=0.075[-0.009-0.158], p=0.0791). No difference was found between binge-drinkers and non-binge-drinkers (β[95% CI]=0.032[-0.002-0.066], p=0.0654).

In conclusion, we observed better executive functioning in light-moderate drinkers compared to abstainers, but not in occasional drinkers, heavy drinkers or binge-drinkers. This non-linear association is reminiscent of the dose-dependent effect of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular risk. Further studies may determine whether cardiovascular, inflammatory and/or other somatic factors mediate the association between moderate drinking and higher-order cognitive functions. Although analyses were adjusted for observed factors that influence drinking behaviours, we cannot exclude a contribution from unobserved residual confounding.
Nudge strategies for behavior-based prevention and control of neglected tropical diseases: a scoping review and ethical assessment
Authors: Velde Fiona Vande , Overgaard Hans J. , Bastien Sheri
Published: December 2020

Background

Nudging, a strategy that uses subtle stimuli to direct people’s behavior, has recently been included as effective and low-cost behavior change strategy in low- and middle- income countries (LMIC), targeting behavior-based prevention and control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Therefore, the present scoping review aims to provide a timely overview of how nudge interventions have been applied within health promotion research, with a specific focus on the prevention and control of NTDs. In addition, the review proposes a framework for the ethical reflection of nudges for behavior-based prevention and control of NTDs, or more broadly global health promotion.

Methods

A comprehensive search was performed in the following databases: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Embase (Ovid), Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL, ERIC and Econ.Lit (EBSCO), as well as registered trials and reviews in CENTRAL and PROSPERO to identify ongoing or unpublished studies. Additionally, studies were included through a handpicked search on websites of governmental nudge units and global health or development organizations. A PRISMA flow diagram was used to elaborate on the number of articles retrieved, retained, excluded and reasons for every action.

Results

This scoping review of studies implementing nudge strategies for behavior-based prevention and control of NTDs identified 33 studies and a total of 67 nudge-type interventions. Most nudges targeted handwashing behavior and were focused on general health practices rather than targeting a disease in specific. The most common nudge techniques were those targeting decision assistance, such as facilitating commitment and reminder actions. The ethical assessment presented favorable results, certainly regarding the health benefits of the included nudges and the trust relationship for the implementers.

Conclusion

Two key recommendations that should inform future research when implementing nudge strategies in global health promotion in general. Firstly, aim for the application of robust study designs including rigorous process and impact evaluation which allow for a better understanding of ‘what works’ and ‘how it works’. Secondly, consider the ethical implications of implementing nudge strategies, specifically in LMIC.
Analysis methods for measuring fNIRS responses generated by a block-design paradigm
Authors: Luke Robert , Larson Eric , Shader Maureen J , Innes-Brown Hamish , Van Yper Lindsey , Lee Adrian KC , Sowman Paul F , McAlpine David
Published: December 2020

Overview

Significance

fNIRS is an increasingly popular tool in auditory research, but the range of analysis procedures employed across studies complicates interpretation of data.

Aim

To assess the impact of different analysis procedures on the morphology, detection, and lateralization of auditory responses in fNIRS. Specifically, whether averaging or GLM-based analyses generate different experimental conclusions, when applied to a block-protocol design. The impact of parameter selection of GLMs on detecting auditory-evoked responses was also quantified.

Approach

17 listeners were exposed to three commonly employed auditory stimuli: noise, speech, and silence. A block design was employed, comprising sounds of 5-s duration, and 10–20 s silent intervals.

Results

Both analysis procedures generated similar response morphologies and amplitude estimates, and both also indicated responses to speech to be significantly greater than to noise and silence. Neither approach indicated a significant effect of brain hemisphere on responses to speech. Methods to correct for systemic hemodynamic responses using short channels improved detection at the individual level.

Conclusions

Consistent with theoretical considerations, simulations, and other experimental domains, GLM and averaging analyses generate the same group-level experimental conclusions. We release this dataset publicly for use in future development and optimization of algorithms.
Spatial community variability: Interactive effects of predators and isolation on stochastic community assembly
Authors: Pelinson Rodolfo Mei , Leibold Mathew A. , Schiesari Luis
Published: December 2020

In the absence of environmental heterogeneity, spatial variation among local communities can be mostly attributed to demographic stochasticity (i.e., ecological drift) and historical contingency in colonization (i.e. random dispersal and priority effects). The consequences of demographic stochasticity are highly dependent on community size, gamma, and alpha diversity, which, along with historical contingency, can be strongly affected by dispersal limitation and the presence of predators. We used freshwater insect communities to experimentally test whether and how the presence of a generalist predatory fish and dispersal limitation (i.e., isolation by distance from a source habitat) can change the relative importance of stochastic and non-stochastic processes on community variability. We found that dispersal limitation can have both negative and positive effects on community variability, and their importance may depend on the presence of predatory fish. Negative effects happened because predatory insects cannot always successfully colonize highly isolated ponds, causing herbivores and detritivores to increase in abundance. As a consequence, community size increases, decreasing the importance of demographic stochasticity on community structure. However, when fish is absent, these effects are counterbalanced by an increase in the importance of priority effects generating more distinct communities in more isolated ponds. Such effects can be caused by either pre or post-colonization mechanisms and were absent in the presence of fish predators, likely because fish prevented both predatory and non-predatory insects from becoming more abundant, irrespective of their order of colonization.
LISA: A Case For Learned Index based Acceleration of Biological Sequence Analysis
Authors: Ho Darryl , Kalikar Saurabh , Misra Sanchit , Ding Jialin , Md Vasimuddin , Tatbul Nesime , Li Heng , Kraska Tim
Published: December 2020

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) is transforming fields like genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenetics with rapidly increasing throughput at reduced cost. This also demands overcoming performance bottlenecks in the downstream analysis of the sequencing data. A key performance bottleneck is searching for exact matches of entire or substrings of short DNA/RNA sequence queries in a long reference sequence database. This task is typically performed by using an index of the reference - such as FM-index, suffix arrays, suffix trees, hash tables, or lookup tables.

In this paper, we propose accelerating this sequence search by substituting or enhancing the indexes with machine learning based indexes - called learned indexes - and present LISA (Learned Indexes for Sequence Analysis). We evaluate LISA through a number of case studies – that cover widely used software tools; short and long reads; human, animal, and plant genome datasets; DNA and RNA sequences; various traditional indexing techniques (FM-indexes, hash tables and suffix arrays) – and demonstrate significant performance benefits in a majority of them. For example, our experiments on real datasets show that LISA achieves speedups of up to 2.2 fold and 4.7 fold over the state-of-the-art FM-index based implementations for exact sequence search modules in popular tools bowtie2 and BWA-MEM2, respectively.

Code availability

LISA-based FM-index:https://github.com/IntelLabs/Trans-Omics-Acceleration-Library/tree/master/src/LISA-FMI

LISA-based hash-table:https://github.com/IntelLabs/Trans-Omics-Acceleration-Library/tree/master/src/LISA-hash

LISA applied to BWA-MEM2:https://github.com/bwa-mem2/bwa-mem2/tree/bwa-mem2-lisa.
The experience of patients in an outpatient infusion facility: a qualitative study
Authors: Zijlstra Emma , Hagedoorn Mariët , Lechner Stefan C.M. , van der Schans Cees P. , Mobach Mark P.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

As hospitals are now being designed with an increasing number of single rooms or cubicles, the individual preference of patients with respect to social contact is of great interest. The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of the experience of patients in an outpatient infusion center.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 29 semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed and analyzed by using direct content analysis.

Findings

Findings showed that patients perceived a lack of acoustic privacy and therefore tried to emotionally isolate themselves or withheld information from staff. In addition, patients complained about the sounds of infusion pumps, but they were neutral about the interior features. Patients who preferred non-talking desired enclosed private rooms and perceived negative distraction because of spatial crowding. In contrast, patients who preferred talking, or had no preference, desired shared rooms and perceived positive distraction because of spatial crowding.

Research limitations/implications

In conclusion, results showed a relation between physical aspects (i.e. physical enclosure) and the social environment.

Practical implications

The findings allow facility managers to better understand the patients’ experiences in an outpatient infusion facility and to make better-informed decisions. Patients with different preferences desired different physical aspects. Therefore, nursing staff of outpatient infusion centers should assess the preferences of patients. Moreover, architects should integrate different types of treatment places (i.e. enclosed private rooms and shared rooms) in new outpatient infusion centers to fulfill different preferences and patients should have the opportunity to discuss issues in private with nursing staff.

Originality/value

This study emphasizes the importance of a mix of treatment rooms, while new hospital designs mainly include single rooms or cubicles.
Guest editorial: age is a construct, not a characteristic
Authors: Kuppelwieser Volker , Klaus Philipp
Published: December 2020

Purpose

In aging societies all over the world, an increased understanding of age and age-related insights is critical to theory development, generalizations, model adaptations and managerial insights. Researchers and managers mostly rely on chronological age for adapting their approaches; they assume chronological age as a customers’ characteristic and neglect differing behaviors between individuals of the same age. When motivations enter the fray, chronological age as an individual’s attribute becomes indiscriminate. Consequently, findings adopting this age concept differ widely.

Design/methodology/approach

This special issue of the Journal of Services Marketing consists of ten articles that focus on different aspects of aging.

Findings

The articles change perspectives on age when describing ageing from an individual’s perspective. The articles also comment on social needs and discuss well-being in later life stages.

Originality/value

The authors offer a broad view on age and ageing to promote age-related research.
Mortality and morbidity after emergency peripartum hysterectomy in a provincial referral hospital in Papua New Guinea: A seven‐year audit
Authors: Bolnga John W. , Mola Glen D. L. , Ao Paula , Sapau Wendy , Verave Ovoi , Lufele Elvin , Laman Moses
Published: December 2020

Background

Emergency peripartum hysterectomy (EPH) is a life‐saving surgical procedure performed at the time of caesarean section or within 24 h of vaginal delivery and is usually a procedure of last resort in obstetric haemorrhage when other interventions fail.

Aim

To investigate the incidence, indications, risk factors and complications of EPH in a provincial referral hospital in Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Materials and methods

This was a seven‐year retrospective observational study investigating the rate of EPH at a provincial hospital between January 2012 and December 2018. Patient medical records that included socio‐demographics, obstetric risk factors, indications for EPH and maternal and perinatal outcomes were reviewed.

Results

Of the 19 215 deliveries during the study period, 26 women had EPH, giving an incidence of 1.35 per 1000 deliveries. The majority of women (18/26) were referred from peripheral health facilities. Overall, 21 women survived and five died (mortality index, 19%). Uterine rupture was the most common indication for EPH (13/26), and it was associated with a high maternal death rate of 15.4% (2/13) and significantly higher perinatal deaths when compared to babies born to mothers with other indications (13/13 (100%) versus 5/13 (38.5%); P = 0.002). Neonates born to mothers with uterine atony were more likely to survive (8/11 (72.7%) versus 0/15 (0%); P < 0.001), although maternal mortality was higher at 27.3% (3/11).

Conclusion

Uterine rupture and uterine atony after prolonged labour are common indications of EPH and associated with significant maternal and perinatal mortality. Improving pre‐hospital management of prolonged labour remains critical in PNG.
Comment on: COVID‐19 in Nursing Homes: Calming the Perfect Storm
Authors: Zorowitz Robert A. , Bergman Christian , Haimowitz Daniel , Kalender‐Rich Jessica L , Polakoff David F. , Steinberg Karl , Wright James L.
Published: December 2020

See the Reply by Ouslander et al.
Utilizing an Artificial Neural Network to Predict Self‐Management in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: An Exploratory Analysis
Authors: Bugajski Andrew , Lengerich Alexander , Koerner Rebecca , Szalacha Laura
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The main objective of this study was to utilize an artificial neural network in an exploratory fashion to predict self‐management behaviors based on reported symptoms in a sample of stable patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Design and Methods

Patient symptom data were collected over 21 consecutive days. Symptoms included distress due to cough, chest tightness, distress due to mucus, dyspnea with activity, dyspnea at rest, and fatigue. Self‐management abilities were measured and recorded periodically throughout the study period and were the dependent variable for these analyses. Self‐management ability scores were broken into three equal tertiles to signify low, medium, and high self‐management abilities. Data were entered into a simple artificial neural network using a three‐layer model. Accuracy of the neural network model was calculated in a series of three models that respectively used 7, 14, and 21 days of symptom data as input (independent variables). Symptom data were used to determine if the model could accurately classify participants into their respective self‐management ability tertiles (low, medium, or high scores). Through analysis of synaptic weights, or the strength or amplitude of a connection between variables and parts of the neural network, the most important variables in classifying self‐management abilities could be illuminated and served as another outcome in this study.

Findings

The artificial neural network was able to predict self‐management ability with 93.8% accuracy if 21 days of symptom data were included. The neural network performed best when predicting the low and high self‐management abilities but struggled in predicting those with medium scores. By analyzing the synaptic weights, the most important variables determining self‐management abilities were gender, followed by chest tightness, age, cough, breathlessness during activity, fatigue, breathlessness at rest, and phlegm.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that self‐management abilities could potentially be predicted through understanding and reporting of patient’s symptoms and use of an artificial neural network. Future research is clearly needed to expand on these findings.

Clinical Relevance

Symptom presentation in chronically ill patients directly impacts self‐management behaviors. Patients with COPD experience a number of symptoms that have the potential to impact their ability to manage their chronic disease, and artificial neural networks may help clinicians identify patients at risk for poor self‐management abilities.
Study of the nonlocal active sound control with preservation of desired field in time domain
Authors: Zhou Chuxiong , Utyuzhnikov Sergey
Published: December 2020

In the active sound control, a domain is protected from externally generated noise via constructing secondary sound sources, which are called controls. These controls are applied on the boundary of the shielded domain. Apart from the external noise, a desired sound generated by interior sources should also be retained inside the shielded domain. However, it turns out it is a challenge to preserve the internally generated sound unaffected due to both the reverse effect of the controls on the input data and sparse distribution on the boundary. To take into account the reverse effect, an innovative algorithm based on nonlocal control is implemented in the time domain for the first time. Its real-time practical implementation may include preliminary tuning to the real surrounding conditions. A number of test cases are considered including external broadband noise and internal monochromatic desired sound. A sensitivity analysis is carried out with respect to some key design parameters such as density of sensors and controls as well as respective geometrical displacement from one another determined by the Hausdorff distance. It is demonstrated that the nonlocal control provides the noise attenuation level, which is not very sensitive to the presence of the desired sound.
Two-level systems in superconducting quantum devices due to trapped quasiparticles
Authors: de Graaf S. E. , Faoro L. , Ioffe L. B. , Mahashabde S. , Burnett J. J. , Lindström T. , Kubatkin S. E. , Danilov A. V. , Tzalenchuk A. Ya.
Published: December 2020

Spurious two-level systems observed in quantum devices are attributed to long-lived quasiparticles trapped in gap inhomogeneities.
Gene reuse facilitates rapid radiation and independent adaptation to diverse habitats in the Asian honeybee
Authors: Ji Yongkun , Li Xingan , Ji Ting , Tang Junbo , Qiu Lifei , Hu Jiahui , Dong Jiangxing , Luo Shiqi , Liu Shanlin , Frandsen Paul B. , Zhou Xuguo , Parey Sajad H. , Li Lianming , Niu Qingsheng , Zhou Xin
Published: December 2020

A gene involved in foraging labor division was reused by the Asian honeybee in population radiation and local adaptation.
Frequency-domain study of nonthermal gigahertz phonons reveals Fano coupling to charge carriers
Authors: Vasileiadis Thomas , Zhang Heng , Wang Hai , Bonn Mischa , Fytas George , Graczykowski Bartlomiej
Published: December 2020

Spectroscopy of nonthermal phonons reveals interaction of hypersound with charge carriers.
CRL4
DCAF1/VprBP
E3 ubiquitin ligase controls ribosome biogenesis, cell proliferation, and development
Authors: Han Xiao-Ran , Sasaki Naoya , Jackson Sarah C. , Wang Pu , Li Zhijun , Smith Matthew D. , Xie Ling , Chen Xian , Zhang Yanping , Marzluff William F. , Xiong Yue
Published: December 2020

DCAF1 degrades the ribosome assembly factor PWP1 to control ribosome biogenesis, cell proliferation, and development.
A unique mechanism of inactivation gating of the Kv channel family member Kv7.1 and its modulation by PIP2 and calmodulin
Authors: Lipinsky Maya , Tobelaim William Sam , Peretz Asher , Simhaev Luba , Yeheskel Adva , Yakubovich Daniel , Lebel Guy , Paas Yoav , Hirsch Joel A. , Attali Bernard
Published: December 2020

A unique mechanism of Kv7.1 inactivation is controlled by external Ca2
+
and allosterically coupled by PIP2 and calmodulin.
First experimental evidence for a bis-ethene chromium(I) complex forming from an activated ethene oligomerization catalyst
Authors: Chabbra S. , Smith D. M. , Bell N. L. , Watson A. J. B. , Bühl M. , Cole-Hamilton D. J. , Bode B. E.
Published: December 2020

Isotope labeling and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy reveal a long-postulated bis-ethene chromium(I) motif.
Digenic mutations in
ALDH2
and
ADH5
impair formaldehyde clearance and cause a multisystem disorder, AMeD syndrome
Authors: Oka Yasuyoshi , Hamada Motoharu , Nakazawa Yuka , Muramatsu Hideki , Okuno Yusuke , Higasa Koichiro , Shimada Mayuko , Takeshima Honoka , Hanada Katsuhiro , Hirano Taichi , Kawakita Toshiro , Sakaguchi Hirotoshi , Ichimura Takuya , Ozono Shuichi , Yuge Kotaro , Watanabe Yoriko , Kotani Yuko , Yamane Mutsumi , Kasugai Yumiko , Tanaka Miyako , Suganami Takayoshi , Nakada Shinichiro , Mitsutake Norisato , Hara Yuichiro , Kato Kohji , Mizuno Seiji , Miyake Noriko , Kawai Yosuke , Tokunaga Katsushi , Nagasaki Masao , Kito Seiji , Isoyama Keiichi , Onodera Masafumi , Kaneko Hideo , Matsumoto Naomichi , Matsuda Fumihiko , Matsuo Keitaro , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Mashimo Tomoji , Kojima Seiji , Ogi Tomoo
Published: December 2020

Malfunctions in the formaldehyde clearance processes induce DNA damage and overload the DNA repair system and cause AMeD syndrome.
RIPK3-mediated inflammation is a conserved β cell response to ER stress
Authors: Yang Bingyuan , Maddison Lisette A. , Zaborska Karolina E. , Dai Chunhua , Yin Linlin , Tang Zihan , Zang Liqing , Jacobson David A. , Powers Alvin C. , Chen Wenbiao
Published: December 2020

Studies in zebrafish identify a conserved axis that mediates metabolic stress–induced pancreatic islet inflammation.
Severe parapharyngeal abscess that developed significant complications: management during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ajeigbe Teslimat , Ria Basmal , Wates Emma , Mattine Samuel
Published: December 2020

A 50-year-old Caucasian man presented to the emergency department during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic with a rapidly progressive facial swelling, fever, malaise and myalgia. The patient had recently travelled to a COVID-19-prevalent European country and was therefore treated as COVID-19 suspect. The day before, the patient sustained a burn to his left forearm after falling unconscious next to a radiator. A CT neck and thorax showed a parapharyngeal abscess, which was surgically drained, and the patient was discharged following an intensive care admission. He then developed mediastinitis 3 weeks post-discharge which required readmission and transfer to a cardiothoracic unit for surgical drainage. This report discusses the evolution of a deep neck space infection into a mediastinitis, a rare and life-threatening complication, despite early surgical drainage. This report also highlights the difficulties faced with managing patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cash transfers and child nutritional outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Manley James , Balarajan Yarlini , Malm Shahira , Harman Luke , Owens Jessica , Murthy Sheila , Stewart David , Winder-Rossi Natalia Elena , Khurshid Atif
Published: December 2020

Background

Cash transfer (CT) programmes are implemented widely to alleviate poverty and provide safety nets to vulnerable households with children. However, evidence on the effects of CTs on child health and nutrition outcomes has been mixed. We systematically reviewed evidence of the impact of CTs on child nutritional status and selected proximate determinants.

Methods

We searched articles published between January 1997 and September 2018 using Agris, Econlit, Eldis, IBSS, IDEAS, IFPRI, Google Scholar, PubMed and World Bank databases. We included studies using quantitative impact evaluation methods of CTs with sample sizes over 300, targeted to households with children under 5 years old conducted in countries with gross domestic product per capita below US$10 000 at baseline. We conducted meta-analysis using random-effects models to assess the impact of CT programmes on selected child nutrition outcomes and meta-regression analysis to examine the association of programme characteristics with effect sizes.

Results

Out of 2862 articles identified, 74 articles were eligible for inclusion. We find that CTs have significant effects of 0.03±0.03 on height-for-age z-scores (p<0.03) and a decrease of 2.1% in stunting (95% CI −3.5% to −0.7%); consumption of animal-source foods (4.5%, 95% CI 2.9% to 6.0%); dietary diversity (0.73, 95% CI 0.28 to 1.19) and diarrhoea incidence (−2.7%, 95% CI −5.4% to −0.0%; p<0.05). The effects of CTs on weight-for-age z-scores and wasting were not significant (0.02, 95% CI −0.03 to 0.08; p<0.42) and (1.2%, 95% CI: −0.1% to 2.5%; p<0.07), respectively. We found that specific programme characteristics differentially modified the effect on the nutrition outcomes studied.

Conclusion

We found that CT programmes targeted to households with young children improved linear growth and contributed to reduced stunting. We found that the likely pathways were through increased dietary diversity, including through the increased consumption of animal-source foods and reduced incidence of diarrhoea. With heightened interest in nutrition-responsive social protection programmes to improve child nutrition, we make recommendations to inform the design and implementation of future programmes.
Ag2S/ZnS nanocomposites: Synthesis, structure and optical properties
Authors: Ramazanov M. A. , Nuriyeva S. G. , Shirinova H. A. , Karimova A. H. , Nuriyev M. A.
Published: December 2020

Ag2S/ZnS nanocomposites were synthesized using a novel method, and their structural features and optical properties were also investigated. For the structural investigation of the core/shell-like nanocomposites, X-ray powder diffraction technique (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used. Optical features of Ag2S/ZnS nanocomposites were studied by UV-Vis absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). According to the SEM images, the sizes of the Ag2S, ZnS nanoparticles and Ag2S/ZnS core/shell-like nanocomposites are in the region of the 10–15; 25–50 and 15–80 nm, respectively. Furthermore, the absorption spectroscopy indicates that the bandgap of Ag2S/ZnS nanocomposites is approximately 2.4 eV. By comparison of the intensities of the emission spectra, it was clear that the intensity of Ag2S/ZnS is much lower than that of ZnS.
Structural, Optical, Ferroelectric and Magnetic Properties of NiTiO3 Ceramic Synthesized by Citrate Gel Method
Authors: Thang Pham Van , Dung Dang Duc , Bac Luong Huu , Hung Pham Phi , Ngoc Tran Vu Diem
Published: December 2020

The NiTiO3 ceramic was synthesized in nanostructured form by citrate gel method. The phase structure, microstructure and magnetic properties of synthesized compounds were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope and vibrating sample magnetometer. Williamson–Hall plot was used to calculate the crystallite size and microstrain of sample. The XRD analysis showed the formation of rhombohedral crystal structure of synthesized powders. The crystallite size is about 35[Formula: see text]nm and microstrain is [Formula: see text]. The optical band gap was estimated from UV-Visible spectrum with value of 2.43[Formula: see text]eV. The NiTiO3 samples showed coexistence of ferroelectric and antiferromagnetic properties at room temperature.
Simplicity from Complexity – MicroRNAs and the Maintenance of Skin Homeostasis
Authors: Quah Shan , Sampath Prabha
Published: December 2020

Skin homeostasis is indispensable for terrestrial life. The skin, sitting at the interface between the dry external environment and the aqueous interior, acts as a barrier to delimit each from the other. Maintaining this barrier function is critical – if it is compromised, pathogen ingress and water loss may have potentially severe consequences. Skin function is supported by an intricate regulatory network incorporating both protein-coding genes as well as non-coding RNA transcripts. This review will focus on microRNAs, a subset of non-coding RNAs which target specific messenger RNAs for post-transcriptional repression. MicroRNAs regulate every aspect of skin biology, from initial cell fate determination during embryogenesis, to steady state keratinocyte maturation and barrier renewal, as well as coordination of the healing process in response to skin damage. An increased appreciation for the role of microRNAs in skin pathologies not only sheds light on the importance of these small RNAs in healthy skin function, but also provides an expanding repertoire of potential therapeutic targets through which these conditions may be addressed.

Mammalian skin appears simple. Its core function is to shield the body from the external environment. Water must be retained to sustain life, whilst harmful pathogens and other environmental insults must be kept out. This simplicity in function belies the array of intricate processes necessary to maintain the skin’s barrier function – multiple series of highly-ordered molecular and cellular events control constant epidermal rejuvenation, as well as rapid repair of any epithelial damage sustained. For internal homeostasis to be maintained, epithelial integrity is essential, and contingent upon precise spatiotemporal control of protein expression in the skin.
Impact of Shell Composition, Thickness and Heating Temperature on the Performance of Nickel-Rich Cobalt-Free Core-Shell Materials
Authors: Liu Yulong , Wu Haohan , Wang Yiqiao , Li Kui , Yin Shuo , Dahn J. R.
Published: December 2020

Ni-rich lithium transition metal oxides have high specific capacity but generally have inferior cycling performance compared to their lower Ni content counterparts. core–shell structures with a Ni-rich core and a Mn-containing shell have been reported to improve the cycling performance of Ni-rich materials, but the impact of the shell on the performance of core–shell materials needs to be elaborated more. In this work, three core–shell precursors having a Ni(OH)2 core, but different shell compositions and thicknesses, were lithiated at various temperatures and the resulting materials were examined physically and electrochemically. They were compared to the corresponding uniform “shell” materials lithiated at the same temperatures. The selection of heating temperature is crucial and must be made with care to limit the interdiffusion between core and shell compositions while still heating to sufficient temperature to prepare crystalline materials with little lithium in the transition metal layer. Once these factors are understood, core–shell structures with an optimized shell thickness and Mn content can be made to simultaneously achieve high specific capacity and long cycle life.
PEDOT for Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of Trimetazidine Hydrochloride in Biological Fluids: Synthesis, Characterization and Mechanism Insights
Authors: El Guerraf Abdelqader , Bakirhan Nurgul K. , Ben Jadi Sana , Bazzaoui Mohammed , Ozkan Yalcin , Bazzaoui El Arbi , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: December 2020

Trimetazidine hydrochloride (TMZ), well-known by its unique and interesting pharmacological properties, has been investigated by several electrochemical techniques using Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) coated glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The preparation of the modified electrode was achieved by the electrodeposition of PEDOT in two different media and the obtained film has been characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The electrochemical analysis of TMZ was then studied by cyclic, differential pulse and square wave voltammetric methods in solutions of different pH values and results have shown that square wave voltammetry (SWV) is the most suitable one for the analytical characterization. The oxidation of TMZ was irreversible and was a process under diffusion control. Besides, Model compounds and molecules were also used in this study to describe the possible oxidation mechanism of TMZ. In this contribution, the main objective is the possible practical use of the proposed method, thus, the electrochemical detection of TMZ by SWV was carried out in biological samples, such as human serum and urine. Under the optimum condition in phosphate buffer at pH 3.0, linear calibration curves were obtained for all studied media (supporting electrolyte, urine and serum). Important parameters, namely, precision, accuracy, limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were reported, and good sensitivity, reproducibility and repeatability were obtained. Furthermore, recovery values of almost 100% were found for pharmaceuticals and biological samples, suggesting that the sensor can be used in practical applications.
Experimental Study on Recycling of Spent Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode Materials
Authors: Jung Joey Chung-Yen , Chow Norman , Warkentin Douglas Dale , Chen Ke , Melashvili Mariam , Meseldzija Zarko , Sui Pang-Chieh , Zhang Jiujun
Published: December 2020

Spent lithium ion batteries (LIBs) are piling up from the electric-vehicle revolution and the increased demand in portable electronics. Currently, there is no environmentally friendly LIB recycle process really commercialized. This paper describes a series of experiments to advance the knowledge about recovery of metals from the spent battery cathode materials and to develop a novel environmentally friendlier closed-loop hydrometallurgical process. The leaching conditions are optimized by the bench scale experiments and various options for recovering critical LIB cathode metals are investigated. The semi-continuous locked-cycle campaigns document the dynamics of the recycled streams and yield much useful data. The behaviour of the leached cobalt is strongly affected by sulphate supersaturation and the location of sodium sulphate crystallization, but successful operation can be maintained when the sodium sulphate level is carefully controlled. These solution properties are the key factors when recycling spent cathode metals using systems based on sulphuric acid and sodium salts. Experimental results also show that the systems may reach supersaturation when circulating loads are incorporated, demonstrating the significance of sulphate levels in such systems. The closed-loop flowsheets are developed to recover metals, reduce discharges, and minimize environmental impact in the recycling of the spent cathode materials.
Homogeneous Decoration of Au Nanoparticles on ZIF-Derived Porous CoS2 Nanocages for Nonenzymatic Hydrogen Peroxide Sensing
Authors: Yang Ziyin , You Jinmao
Published: December 2020

Considering that few studies explored CoS2 as electrocatalyst for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) reduction, in this paper, a hybrid composite of porous CoS2 nanocages decorated with Au nanopar(1)ticles (Au/CoS2) was synthesized by sulfurizing ZIF-67 and reducing Au3+, where ZIF-67 made CoS2 form a porous nanocage structure and Au-S bonds enabled CoS2 as a promising support for facilitating homogeneous decoration of Au nanoparticles. TEM images supported the porous nanocage structure with homogeneous distribution of Au nanoparticles. Such porous structure is beneficial for promoting target substance diffusion, and the decoration of Au nanoparticles not only increases active sites for reaction but also facilitates electron transport. Therefore, the synergistic interaction between CoS2 nanocage and Au nanoparticles made the sensor based on Au/CoS2 exhibit remarkable performance for H2O2 detection, including a linear range of 0.022 mM–3.5 mM, a sensitivity of 50 μA mM−1 cm−2 and a low detection limit of 0.02 mM, confirming Au/CoS2 as a promising material for electrochemical sensing of H2O2.
Pennington Corner: Global Reach
Authors: Calvo Roque J.
Published: December 2020

Early next month, I will be making a presentation at the “E-Journal Summit,” an event sponsored by the National Academy of Science (NAS) in Washington, DC. It is a pleasure to participate in the summit meeting because the program includes participation from international authorities on trends, issues, and new directions in electronic publishing.
Pennington Corner: It’s PRiME Time
Authors: Calvo Roque J.
Published: December 2020

In a few months we will be holding the Pacific Rim Meeting on Electrochemical and Solid-State Science (PRiME 2008) in Honolulu, Hawaii. This will be our fifth Joint International Meeting with The Electrochemical Society of Japan (ECSJ).
From the President: The Society on Wheels Revisited
Authors: Natishan Paul M.
Published: December 2020

I was sitting having a cup of coffee on a Monday morning before driving to work. I was thinking about our successful meeting in San Francisco the week before; 1,579 papers and 1,650 attendees; brilliant and entertaining presentations by our plenary speaker Federico Capasso, our Gordon Moore Medalist C. Grant Willson, and our “For the Rest of Us” speaker Vijay K. Varadan; the chance to interact and discuss science with colleagues; and the opportunity to see so many good and trusted friends.
Websites of Note - Summer 2009
Authors: Nagy Zoltan
Published: December 2020

We are pleased to introduce a new column in Interface, “Websites of Note.” Zoltan Nagy, longtime ECS member, is the guest contributor for this column. Dr. Nagy spends much of his time surfing the Web and editing/maintaining three informational electrochemistry websites.
ECS Classics: Pillars of Modern Electrochemistry
Authors: Shukla Ashok K. , Kumar Thrivikraman Prem
Published: December 2020

Although there is some archaeological evidence which suggests that some form of a primitive battery (sometimes called a Baghdad battery) was used for electroplating in Mesopotamia ca. 200 BC, electrochemistry as we know it today had its genesis in the pile of crowns of Alessandro Volta in 1800.
The Change We Must Make: Opportunities for Photovoltaics and Fuel Cells
Authors: Narayan S. R.
Published: December 2020

The members of ECS, and the Energy Technology Divisionin particular, find themselves with this unprecedented opportunity to be the unquestionable agents of change by rapidly developing technology solutions for producing clean energy for mankind. The growing economies of the world are hungering for lots of energy, along with other necessities such as food and water. The challenge of meeting the world’s gargantuan energy demands in a sustainable manner with low environmental impact is undoubtedly one of the most important challenges of this century. The ECS Energy Technology Division represents the membership that engrosses itself with the science and technology of sustainable energy generation and conversion strategies for solar, electrochemical, and thermoelectric systems.
Corrosion Within the Human Body: Prospects and Problems with Bioimplants
Authors: Shaw Barbara A.
Published: December 2020

The Corrosion Division, the sixth Division of ECS, was formally established in 1942. However, the first papers on corrosion appeared in Transactions of The American Electrochemical Society in 1903. The Division was originally organized to promote formal and informal discussions associated with the behavior of materials in environments that cause corrosion, oxidation, and related surface reactions. As this issue of Interface reveals, this mission is still being carried out by the Division and its members today.
Phosphors for LED-based Solid-State Lighting
Authors: Setlur Anant A.
Published: December 2020

The efficacy of solid-state lighting (SSL) based upon InGaN LEDs has improved by >10x over the past decade: the efficacy of cool white LEDs surpasses linear fluorescent lamp (LFLs) efficacies (>100 lm/W) and warm white 1W LEDs surpasses compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) efficacies (>60-70 lm/W).
Understanding Electrocatalytic Pathways in Low and Medium Temperature Fuel Cells: Synchrotron-based In Situ X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Mukerjee Sanjey , Zeigelbauer Joseph , Arruda Thomas , Ramaker David , Shyam Badri
Published: December 2020

Over the last few decades, researchers have made significant developments in producing more advanced electrocatalytic materials for power generation applications. For example, traditional fuel cell catalysts often involve high priced precious metals such as Pt. However, in order for fuel cells to become commercially viable, there is a need to reduce or completely remove precious metal altogether. As a result, a myriad of novel, unconventional materials have been explored such as chalcogenides, porphyrins, and organic-metal-macrocycles for low/medium temperature fuel cells as well as enzymatic and microbial fuel cells.
Manganese Oxides: Battery Materials Make the Leap to Electrochemical Capacitors
Authors: Bélanger Daniel , Brousse Thierry , Long Jeffrey
Published: December 2020

Manganese oxides have a relatively long history in the world of battery chemistry, dating back to the work of Leclanché in the 1860s, which ultimately formed the basis for the now-ubiquitous primary 1.5 V Zn/MnO2 alkaline cell.
Leveling the Gap: An Electrochemical Approach to Nanowire Topology Control
Authors: Banholzer Matthew
Published: December 2020

The 2008 Edward G. Weston Summer Research Fellowship — Summary Report
Fabrication and Electrochemical Study of a Binder-Free LiMn2O4 Cathode
Authors: Chew Sau Yen
Published: December 2020

The 2008 Colin Garfield Fink Summer Research Fellowship — Summary Report
Sol-Gel Based Silica Electrodes for Inorganic Membrane DMFCs
Authors: Kim Hyea
Published: December 2020

2009 Colin Garfield Fink Summer Research Fellowship — Summary Report
Detection of Pb(III) Intermediates During the Formation of Nanophase PbO2 via Pb(II) Oxidation: An Electrochemical Study
Authors: Liu Haizhou
Published: December 2020

2009 Joseph W. Richards Summer Research Fellowship — Summary Report
Effects of High‐Pretension Support System on Soft Rock Large Deformation of Perpendicularly Crossing Tunnels
Authors: Gan Li , Weibin Ma , Siming Tian , Wenhao Zhou
Published: December 2020

The control mechanism of prestressed support system is studied by means of three‐dimensional discrete element numerical simulation, theoretical analysis, and field measurement. The actual project is selected to analyze, and the control effect is demonstrated. The theoretical analysis results show that the prestressed support can improve the self‐bearing capacity of surrounding rock, which is conducive to the stability of the surrounding rock. The numerical calculation shows that, under the control of the long and short cables, the prestress can spread effectively and form two bearing arches. The deformation is difficult to control, which is in the arch crown and the arch shoulder of the tunnel intersection. However, the deformation of the surrounding rock decreases with the increase of prestress. Through the analysis of the measured results, it shows that the pretension support design scheme can effectively control the large deformation of the surrounding rock.