bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recalculation of error growth models’ parameters for the ECMWF
forecast system
Authors: Bednář Hynek , Raidl Aleš , Mikšovský Jiří
Published: November 2020

Abstract. This article provides a new estimate of error growth models’ parameters approximating predictability curves and their differentials, calculated from data of the ECMWF forecast system over the 1986 to 2011 period. Estimates of the largest Lyapunov exponent are also provided, along with model error and the limit value of the predictability curve. The proposed correction is based on the ability of the Lorenz's (2005) system to simulate predictability curve of the ECMWF forecasting system and on comparing the parameters estimated for both these systems, as well as on comparison with the largest Lyapunov exponent (λ = 0.35 day−1) and limit value of the predictability curve (E∞ = 8.2) of the Lorenz's system. Parameters are calculated from the Quadratic model with and without model error, as well as by the Logarithmic and General models and by the hyperbolic tangent model. The average value of the largest Lyapunov exponent is estimated to be in the  day−1 range for the ECMWF forecasting system, limit values of the predictability curves are estimated with lower theoretically derived values and new approach of calculation of model error based on comparison of models is presented.
Suitability of 17 gridded rainfall and temperature datasets for large-scale hydrological modelling in West Africa
Authors: Dembélé Moctar , Schaefli Bettina , van de Giesen Nick , Mariéthoz Grégoire
Published: November 2020

Abstract. This study evaluates the ability of different gridded
rainfall datasets to plausibly represent the spatio-temporal patterns of
multiple hydrological processes (i.e. streamflow, actual evaporation, soil
moisture and terrestrial water storage) for large-scale hydrological
modelling in the predominantly semi-arid Volta River basin (VRB) in West
Africa. Seventeen precipitation products based essentially on
gauge-corrected satellite data (TAMSAT, CHIRPS, ARC, RFE, MSWEP, GSMaP,
PERSIANN-CDR, CMORPH-CRT, TRMM 3B42 and TRMM 3B42RT) and on reanalysis (ERA5,
PGF, EWEMBI, WFDEI-GPCC, WFDEI-CRU, MERRA-2 and JRA-55) are compared as
input for the fully distributed mesoscale Hydrologic Model (mHM). To assess
the model sensitivity to meteorological forcing during rainfall partitioning
into evaporation and runoff, six different temperature reanalysis datasets
are used in combination with the precipitation datasets, which results in
evaluating 102 combinations of rainfall–temperature input data. The model is
recalibrated for each of the 102 input combinations, and the model responses
are evaluated by using in situ streamflow data and satellite remote-sensing
datasets from GLEAM evaporation, ESA CCI soil moisture and GRACE
terrestrial water storage. A bias-insensitive metric is used to assess the
impact of meteorological forcing on the simulation of the spatial patterns
of hydrological processes. The results of the process-based evaluation show
that the rainfall datasets have contrasting performances across the four
climatic zones present in the VRB. The top three best-performing rainfall
datasets are TAMSAT, CHIRPS and PERSIANN-CDR for streamflow; ARC, RFE and
CMORPH-CRT for terrestrial water storage; MERRA-2, EWEMBI/WFDEI-GPCC and
PGF for the temporal dynamics of soil moisture; MSWEP, TAMSAT and ARC for
the spatial patterns of soil moisture; ARC, RFE and GSMaP-std for the
temporal dynamics of actual evaporation; and MSWEP, TAMSAT and MERRA-2 for the
spatial patterns of actual evaporation. No single rainfall or temperature
dataset consistently ranks first in reproducing the spatio-temporal
variability of all hydrological processes. A dataset that is best in
reproducing the temporal dynamics is not necessarily the best for the
spatial patterns. In addition, the results suggest that there is more
uncertainty in representing the spatial patterns of hydrological processes
than their temporal dynamics. Finally, some region-tailored datasets
outperform the global datasets, thereby stressing the necessity and
importance of regional evaluation studies for satellite and reanalysis
meteorological datasets, which are increasingly becoming an alternative to
in situ measurements in data-scarce regions.
BIG IMAGERY AND HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPUTING AS RESOURCES TO UNDERSTAND CHANGING ARCTIC POLYGONAL TUNDRA
Authors: Witharana C. , Bhuiyan M. A. E. , Liljedahl A. K.
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Permafrost thaw has been observed at several locations across the Arctic tundra in recent decades; however, the pan-Arctic extent and spatiotemporal dynamics of thaw remains poorly explained. Thaw-induced differential ground subsidence and dramatic microtopographic transitions, such as transformation of low-centered ice-wedge polygons (IWPs) into high-centered IWPs can be characterized using very high spatial resolution (VHSR) commercial satellite imagery. Arctic researchers demand for an accurate estimate of the distribution of IWPs and their status across the tundra domain. The entire Arctic has been imaged in 0.5 m resolution by commercial satellite sensors; however, mapping efforts are yet limited to small scales and confined to manual or semi-automated methods. Knowledge discovery through artificial intelligence (AI), big imagery, and high performance computing (HPC) resources is just starting to be realized in Arctic science. Large-scale deployment of VHSR imagery resources requires sophisticated computational approaches to automated image interpretation coupled with efficient use of HPC resources. We are in the process of developing an automated Mapping Application for Permafrost Land Environment (MAPLE) by combining big imagery, AI, and HPC resources. The MAPLE uses deep learning (DL) convolutional neural nets (CNNs) algorithms on HPCs to automatically map IWPs from VHSR commercial satellite imagery across large geographic domains. We trained and tasked a DLCNN semantic object instance segmentation algorithm to automatically classify IWPs from VHSR satellite imagery. Overall, our findings demonstrate the robust performances of IWP mapping algorithm in diverse tundra landscapes and lay a firm foundation for its operational-level application in repeated documentation of circumpolar permafrost disturbances.
DEEP LEARNING FOR REMOTE SENSING IMAGE CLASSIFICATION FOR AGRICULTURE APPLICATIONS
Authors: Hashemi-Beni L. , Gebrehiwot A.
Published: November 2020

Abstract. This research examines the ability of deep learning methods for remote sensing image classification for agriculture applications. U-net and convolutional neural networks are fine-tuned, utilized and tested for crop/weed classification. The dataset for this study includes 60 top-down images of an organic carrots field, which was collected by an autonomous vehicle and labeled by experts. FCN-8s model achieved 75.1% accuracy on detecting weeds compared to 66.72% of U-net using 60 training images. However, the U-net model performed better on detecting crops which is 60.48% compared to 47.86% of FCN-8s.
Small-scale spatial variability in bare-ice reflectance at Jamtalferner, Austria
Authors: Hartl Lea , Felbauer Lucia , Schwaizer Gabriele , Fischer Andrea
Published: November 2020

Abstract. As Alpine glaciers become snow-free in summer, more dark, bare ice is
exposed, decreasing local albedo and increasing surface melting. To include
this feedback mechanism in models of future deglaciation, it is important to
understand the processes governing broadband and spectral albedo at a local
scale. However, few in situ reflectance data have been measured in the
ablation zones of mountain glaciers. As a contribution to this knowledge
gap, we present spectral reflectance data
(hemispherical–conical–reflectance factor) from 325 to 1075 nm collected
along several profile lines in the ablation zone of Jamtalferner, Austria.
Measurements were timed to closely coincide with a Sentinel-2 and Landsat 8
overpass and are compared to the respective ground reflectance
(bottom-of-atmosphere) products. The brightest spectra have a maximum
reflectance of up to 0.7 and consist of clean, dry ice. In contrast,
reflectance does not exceed 0.2 for dark spectra where liquid water and/or
fine-grained debris are present. Spectra can roughly be grouped into dry
ice, wet ice, and dirt or rocks, although gradations between these groups
occur. Neither satellite captures the full range of in situ reflectance
values. The difference between ground and satellite data is not uniform
across satellite bands, between Landsat and Sentinel, and to some extent
between ice surface types (underestimation of reflectance for bright
surfaces, overestimation for dark surfaces). We highlight the need for
further, systematic measurements of in situ spectral reflectance properties,
their variability in time and space, and in-depth analysis of
time-synchronous satellite data.
Enacting Wide-Awakeness: Stories of Challenging Moments and Personal Change in High School Visual Arts
Authors: Williams Rebecca
Published: November 2020

Maxine Greene theorized that art and aesthetic education invite teachers and students to enact wide-awakeness. Wide-awakeness is a state of mind and relational practice lived out through actively approaching experience with interested attentiveness and careful consideration. To uncover moments of wide-awakeness in practice, I conducted a narrative inquiry instrumental case study of a high school visual arts course over a period of 9 weeks. In this article, I invite the reader into three distinct stories of the students’ enactment of wide-awakeness during this research study. These stories reveal how the students entered into, persisted through, and were impacted by their unique experiences within the course. As these narratives allow us to vicariously experience these moments, I highlight evidence of Greene’s theory in the contemporary context of a high school visual arts course. These compelling stories of change also reveal the power of a visual arts education in the lives of individuals and advocate for the significance of arts education in providing a well-rounded education for all students.
Participatie onder druk
Authors: Azghari Youssef , Janssen Janine , Nieuwboer Christa
Published: November 2020

Participation under pressure. A mismatch between migrants and social professionals. Building better relationships

Two major shifts in the Dutch policy have changed how social professionals work for migrants. These two refer to the change from a multicultural in an assimilation policy and a participative society where people are more dependent on their network or resilience for dealing with their needs. Based on our exploratory interviews with eight professionals and a focus group of six participants with a non-western cultural background we conclude that what migrants expect from social professionals and what they can offer do not match. It is due to contrasting views and cultural differences. This has a negative impact on their participation.
En glemt skatt, Miranda Bødtkers tegninger af arkæologiske tekstiler
Authors: Bender Jørgensen Lise , Moe Dagfinn
Published: November 2020

Over many years, illustrator Miranda Bødtker (1896–1996) carried out drawings for botanists, zoologists and archaeologists at Bergen Museum, the University of Bergen. After her death, thousands of drawings were discovered in her estate. Among them were numerous unpublished drawings of archaeological textiles from five sites. Bødtker’s illustrations show that although several scholars have studied the textiles, none had seen them all. This applies in particular to textiles from two Viking Age burials, Grønhaug and Dale, both of which comprise remains of figured tapestries that are hardly mentioned in archaeological literature. Grønhaug, and a boat from Halsnøy also offer several types of textiles related to the maritime world. The paper presents Bødtker’s drawings and discusses how they compare with published descriptions of those textiles, with drawings of textiles from the Oseberg burial, and to what degree this form of documentation meets current scientific demands.
Association of Underlying Diseases and Clinical Characteristics with Mortality in Patients with 2019 Novel Coronavirus in Iran
Authors: Zamanian Mohammadhossein , Foroozanfar Zohre , Izadi Zhila , Jafari Samira , Derakhshankhah Hossein , Salimi Mehdi , Janbakhsh Alireza , Sayad Babak , Shirvani Maria , Jasemi Seyed Vahid , Mansouri Feyzollah , Afsharian Mandana , Mohseniafshar Zeinab , Miladi Ronak , Vaziri Siavash
Published: November 2020

Objectives: The first case of 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) was reported in Iran in February 2020. Here, we report the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with COVID-19 and factors associated with mortality in these patients. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted from February 22, 2020, to March 24, 2020, in Golestan Hospital in Kermanshah, Iran. Demographic data including underlying diseases and clinical data including the presenting symptoms, chest computed tomography (CT) scan, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test results, and outcomes were extracted from electronic medical records. Simple and multiple logistic regression methods were used to explore the factors associated with mortality. Results: Of 245 patients admitted with COVID-19, 155 (63.30%) were male. The mean age of the subjects was 54.68 ± 19.21. Forty-five (18.48%) patients had underlying diseases. Common symptoms were dyspnea (n = 137; 55.9%), cough (n = 93; 38.0%), and fever (n = 78; 31.8%). All patients had pneumonia with abnormal findings on chest CT scan (100%), and RT-PCR test results were positive in 87 (35.50%) patients. Of the total admitted cases, 38 (15.5%) patients died during hospitalization. An old age (OR = 1.09; 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.06), history of heart disease (OR = 5.07; 95% CI: 1.46 to 17.58), hypertension (OR = 5.82; 95% CI: 1.13 to 30.04), smoking (OR = 11.44; 95% CI: 1.01 to 29.53), history of at least one underlying disease (OR = 3.31; 95%CI: 1.54 to 7.09), and symptoms of decreased consciousness at the time of admission (OR = 24.23; 95% CI: 2.62 to 223.39) were associated with mortality. Also, the symptoms of cough (OR = 0.383; 95% CI: 0.17 to 0.88) and fever (OR = 0.278; 95% CI: 0.10 to 0.74) had a negative association with mortality. Conclusions: In the current study, factors including old age, smoking, symptoms of decreased consciousness, and underlying diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, and history of at least one underlying disease were associated with mortality. Factors associated with mortality should be considered so that we can better manage patients with COVID-19.
Evaluation of Liver Enzymes in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients on the Renal Transplant-Waiting List in North-West of Iran
Authors: Sabouri Samaneh , Afzal Aghaee Monavar , Lotfi Zahra , Esmaily Habibollah , Alizadeh Maryam , Mosannen Mozafari Hooman
Published: November 2020

Background: Liver diseases, mainly hepatitis B and C, commonly occur in patients with end-stage renal diseases (ESRD). Alanine and aspartate aminotransferase are important for the diagnosis and monitoring of liver diseases. Several studies demonstrated that patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have lower levels of serum aminotransferases than the normal population. The present study was designed to compare these enzymes in different types of dialysis in ESRD patients and the general population in Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, ESRD patients who were candidates for organ transplants in Montaserieh Hospital in Mashhad (Iran) from 2007 to 2014 were enrolled. The data of 1116 patients were collected by reviewing their medical records. Patients were divided into two groups of hemodialysis (n = 1034) and peritoneal dialysis (n = 82); their liver enzymes were compared with 510 healthy individuals from the MASHAD study. Results: There was a significant difference between hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients and the control group regarding the age (P < 0.0001) and gender (P = 0.005). Conclusions: The reduction in serum aminotransferase levels in ESRD cases compared to the control group suggested that renal failure influences liver enzymes that were mildly increased in peritoneal dialysis versus hemodialysis patients in samples provided before the dialysis session.
Promoting Equity in Mathematics: One Teacher“s Journey
Authors: Tennison Alan D.
Published: November 2020

The impact of using a problem-based curriculum in a heterogeneous classroom environment in a pilot program. The author finds tracking does not offer challenges to minority and struggling students. A problem based curriculum provides equity for all students.
Mathematical Lens: The Heliconia Plant, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Miami, Florida
Authors: Yancoskie Dana
Published: November 2020

Approximately what percentage of this photograph is red? Explain your estimation strategy. Discuss the accuracy of your technique.
Explorations with 142857: Connecting the Elementary with the Advanced
Authors: Flores Alfinio
Published: November 2020

Explorations with the cyclic number for students and teachers help connect the mathematics taught in school with algebra and number theory concepts learned in college. Additional ways to manipulate sequential numbers and how they relate create new sequences as well as graphical and visual representations are given.
Analyzing Online Discourse to Assess Students' Thinking
Authors: Groth Randall E.
Published: November 2020

How the analysis of discussion board conversations can be useful for charting the path instruction should take. This analysis is illustrated within the context of a course for preservice teachers. The use of such analysis as an assessment tool is also considered in relation to mathematics courses for high school students. Online discourse offers an alternative to in-class group work where the teacher cannot monitor or be privy to all discussions and learning.
Tangent Lines without Calculus
Authors: Rabin Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2020

A problem that can help high school students develop the concept of instantaneous velocity and connect it with the slope of a tangent line to the graph of position versus time. It also gives a method for determining the tangent line to the graph of a polynomial function at any point without using calculus. It encourages problem solving and multiple solutions.
Delving Deeper: Unlocking the Simplex Lock
Authors: Kovarik Katherine
Published: November 2020

The Simplex lock is a popular push-button combination lock found in apartment buildings, offices, schools, and other buildings. The metallic lock has five buttons that can be pushed individually or simultaneously with other buttons, and the order and number of pushes make up a unique code. Throughout this article, I use the word code rather than combination to describe a unique set of numbers to open the lock and to eliminate confusion with mathematical combinations that also appear here. The manufacturers claim that the Simplex lock can incorporate “thousands” of codes; in fact, the five-button lock can incorporate exactly 1082 codes.
Evaluation of phytosanitary products for the management of raspberry late leaf rust [Pucciniastrum americanum (Farl.) Arthur]
Authors: Delisle-Houde Maxime , Demers François , Tweddell Russell J.
Published: November 2020

Different phytosanitary products (Actinovate SP, Cabrio EG, Double Nickel 55, Fullback 125 SC, Kumulus DF, Nova, Phostrol, Pristine WG, Serenade Opti, Sirocco, StorOx) registered in Canada for the management of various diseases of horticultural crops but not for the management of late leaf rust (LLR) of raspberry were tested against the latter. Efficacy of each product was first determined in vitro on raspberry leaf discs. Based on in vitro efficacy, tested products can be ranked (from the most to the least effective) as follows: Nova, Sirocco, Fullback 125 SC, Pristine WG, Phostrol, Kumulus DF, StorOx, Cabrio EG, Serenade Opti, and Actinovate SP/Double Nickel 55. Five products (Fullback 125 SC, Kumulus DF, Nova, Phostrol, Sirocco) were further tested in the field. Foliar applications of Fullback 125 SC and Nova significantly reduced disease severity as compared with the control. This study shows that the triazole fungicides Fullback 125 SC and Nova were effective against LLR of raspberry as determined using in vitro and field assays and proposes a fast, inexpensive, and easy in vitro method to be used to select phytosanitary products to be tested for field assays.
Humic acid may retard damages of cells in strawberry apices in high saline environment
Authors: Lin Yong-Hong , Chang Yao-Tsung
Published: November 2020

Most studies were focused on the salt-resistance physiology by humic acid (HA) for strawberry in the past. For advancely verifying the remission of salt injury by humic acid, this study was conducted to evaluate K+/Na+ in the strawberry and observe cell morphology of strawberry after treatment of salt concentrations (0 and 50 mg kg-1) and HA (0, 150 and 300 mg kg-1). The results showed that the treatments of humic acid will increase the absorption of K+ (potassium ion) and reduce Na+ (sodium ion), and hence increase K+/Na+ in the root and leaf of strawberry. By the observing of SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and TEM (transmission electron microscopy), under no salt treatments, no matter the additive concentration of humic acid, the root apices of strawberries were normal and integrity. However, in the treatments of high salt concentration, the shrinking and cracking of cells in root apices of strawberries were serious and gradually getting integrity and normal after adding humic acids from 150 to 300 mg kg-1. These results showed that the appropriate treating concentration of humic acid will inhibit the salt injury on root apices of strawberries.
Thermophoretic force on nanoparticles in free molecule regime
Authors: Cui Jie , Su Jun-Jie , Wang Jun , Xia Guo-Dong , Li Zhi-Gang ,   Beijing Key Laboratory of Heat Transfer and Energy Conversion, MOE Key Laboratory of Enhanced Heat Transfer and Energy Conservation, College of Energy and Power Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China,   Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, China
Published: November 2020

Thermophoresis refers to the motion of small particles suspending in a fluid with non-uniform temperature distribution due to the temperature gradient around the particle. Usually, the fluid molecules coming from the hot side carry more kinetic energy than those from the cold side, which results in a net thermophoretic force in the direction opposite to the temperature gradient. Since it was discovered more than 100 years ago, thermophoresis has been of major importance in a variety of applications, where it can play either beneficial role or adverse role, including material synthesis, micro- and nano-fabrication, and environmental science. Therefore, it is necessary to accurately evaluate the thermophoretic force. In the present work, the thermophoretic force on nanoparticles is examined in the free molecule regime by using non-equilibrium molecule dynamics (MD) simulation. It has been widely accepted that the thermophoretic force conforms with the Waldmann equation for large Knudsen numbers. However, due to the effect of the nonrigid-body interactions between the particle and gas molecules, the thermophoretic force on nanoparticles might deviate greatly from the classical theory. In our MD model, a single nanoparticle with a diameter of several nanometers suspends in a diluted gas. The Lennard-Jones (L-J) potential is employed to simulate the intermolecular interactions. To avoid deforming the nanoparticle, the solid molecules within the nanoparticles are linked to their nearest neighbors through a finite extensible nonlinear elastic bonding potential. The thermophoretic force on a nanoparticle is calculated by imposing a harmonic potential on the nanoparticle, which eliminates the effect of the Brownian motion of the nanoparticle on the thermophoresis. The effective thermal conductivity of the ambient gas is employed in Waldmann equation for the thermophoretic force due to the finite volume effect. It is found that the Waldmann theory for thermophoresis is still valid for nanoparticles in the case of weak gas-particle interaction or high gas temperature. With the increase of the gas-particle interaction strength or the decrease of the gas temperature, the Waldmann theory is invalid due to the effect of gas-particle nonrigid-body collisions and the adsorption of gas molecules on the particle surface. By considering the gas-particle nonrigid-body interaction and the modified particle size, the theoretical results for thermophoretic force accord with the MD simulations quite well.
Sepsis impedes EAE disease development and diminishes autoantigen-specific naive CD4 T cells
Authors: Jensen Isaac J , Jensen Samantha N , Sjaastad Frances V , Gibson-Corley Katherine N , Dileepan Thamothrampillai , Griffith Thomas S , Mangalam Ashutosh K , Badovinac Vladimir P
Published: November 2020

Evaluation of sepsis-induced immunoparalysis has highlighted how decreased lymphocyte number/function contribute to worsened infection/cancer. Yet, an interesting contrast exists with autoimmune disease development, wherein diminishing pathogenic effectors may benefit the post-septic host. Within this framework, the impact of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis on the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) was explored. Notably, CLP mice have delayed onset and reduced disease severity, relative to sham mice. Reduction in disease severity was associated with reduced number, but not function, of autoantigen (MOG)-specific pathogenic CD4 T cells in the CNS during disease and draining lymph node during priming. Numerical deficits of CD4 T cell effectors are associated with the loss of MOG-specific naive precursors. Critically, transfer of MOG-TCR transgenic (2D2) CD4 T cells after, but not before, CLP led to EAE disease equivalent to sham mice. Thus, broad impairment of antigenic responses, including autoantigens, is a hallmark of sepsis-induced immunoparalysis.
Structures of diverse poxin cGAMP nucleases reveal a widespread role for cGAS-STING evasion in host–pathogen conflict
Authors: Eaglesham James B , McCarty Kacie L , Kranzusch Philip J
Published: November 2020

DNA viruses in the family Poxviridae encode poxin enzymes that degrade the immune second messenger 2′3′-cGAMP to inhibit cGAS-STING immunity in mammalian cells. The closest homologs of poxin exist in the genomes of insect viruses suggesting a key mechanism of cGAS-STING evasion may have evolved outside of mammalian biology. Here we use a biochemical and structural approach to discover a broad family of 369 poxins encoded in diverse viral and animal genomes and define a prominent role for 2′3′-cGAMP cleavage in metazoan host-pathogen conflict. Structures of insect poxins reveal unexpected homology to flavivirus proteases and enable identification of functional self-cleaving poxins in RNA-virus polyproteins. Our data suggest widespread 2′3′-cGAMP signaling in insect antiviral immunity and explain how a family of cGAS-STING evasion enzymes evolved from viral proteases through gain of secondary nuclease activity. Poxin acquisition by poxviruses demonstrates the importance of environmental connections in shaping evolution of mammalian pathogens.
Acetate correlates with disability and immune response in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Pérez-Pérez Silvia , Domínguez-Mozo María Inmaculada , Alonso-Gómez Aitana , Medina Silvia , Villarrubia Noelia , Fernández-Velasco Jose Ignacio , García-Martínez María Ángel , García-Calvo Estefanía , Estévez Héctor , Costa-Frossard Lucienne , Alvarez-Cermeño Jose C. , Luque-Garcia Jose L. , Arroyo Rafael , Villar Luisa M. , Alvarez-Lafuente Roberto
Published: November 2020

Background

Gut microbiota has been related to multiple sclerosis (MS) etiopathogenesis. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) are compounds derived from microbial metabolism that have a role in gut-brain axis.

Objectives

To analyse SCFA levels in plasma of MS patients and healthy donors (HD), and the possible link between these levels and both clinical data and immune cell populations.

Methods

Ninety-five MS patients and 54 HD were recruited. Patients were selected according to their score in the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) (49 EDSS ≤ 1.5, 46 EDSS ≥ 5.0). SCFA were studied in plasma samples by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were studied by flow cytometry. Gender, age, treatments, EDSS and Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) were evaluated at the recruitment.

Results

Plasma acetate levels were higher in patients than in HD (p = 0.003). Patients with EDSS ≥ 5.0 had higher acetate levels than those with EDSS≤ 1.5 (p = 0.029), and HD (p = 2.97e–4). Acetate levels correlated with EDSS (r = 0.387;p = 1.08e–4) and MSSS (r = 0.265; p = 0.011). In untreated MS patients, acetate levels correlated inversely with CD4+ naïve T cells (r =  − 0.550, p = 0.001) and directly with CD8+ IL-17+ cells (r = 0.557; p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Plasma acetate levels are higher in MS patients than in HD. In MS there exists a correlation between plasma acetate levels, EDSS and increased IL-17+ T cells. Future studies will elucidate the role of SCFA in the disease.
Assessment of Phytoecological Parameters of Forest Massifs in the Kwilu Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Masens Y. B. da-Musa , Ngbolua Koto-te-Nyiwa , Masens Mandung , Tembeni John Makiadi Tambu , Bongo Gédéon Ngiala
Published: November 2020

Rainforests constitute the great green heart of Africa and thus they present a unique combination of ecological, climatic and human interactions. The degradation of various forest ecosystems in mainly tropical regions and more particularly in sub-Saharan Africa has been a constant reality since the emergence of man. Faced to this almost alarming picture, most often linked to the countless economic challenges and calamitous management and confronted with unavoidable climate change, it seemed appropriate and imperative to assess the quantities of Air Biomass, sequestered carbon stocks, carbon equivalent and basal area produced by various forest massifs encountered in the Kwilu province. This study was carried out at the Kiyaka Agricultural Research Station located in the south of Kikwit. Five blocks of 100 m / 20 m were delineated using a 200 m long nylon wire divided into 10 m intervals. The system thus delimited made it possible to inventory all the trees, of which dbh measured at 1.30 m at chest height is ≥ 10 cm. The findings showed that species are divided into 11 orders, 42 genera and 19 families. The following systematic units are best represented in terms of number of plant species. These families are namely: Fabaceae, Malvaceae, Apocynaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Olacaceae, which together contain 26 plant species, while nine families are poorly represented. However, this reserve is threatened by its occupants on all sides; they do not want to clear large areas of forest for their field work. It is therefore urgent for INERA/Kiyaka officials to take the necessary measures for its full protection.
The high catalytic rate of the cold‐activeVibrioalkaline phosphatase requires a hydrogen bonding network involving a large interface loop
Authors: Hjörleifsson Jens Guðmundur , Helland Ronny , Magnúsdóttir Manuela , Ásgeirsson Bjarni
Published: November 2020

The role of surface loops in mediating communication through residue networks is still a relatively poorly understood part in the study of cold adaptation of enzymes, especially in terms of their quaternary interactions. Alkaline phosphatase (AP) from the psychrophilic marine bacteriumVibrio splendidus(VAP) is characterized by an analogous large surface loop in each monomer, referred to as the large loop, that hovers over the active site of the other monomer. It presumably has a role in the high catalytic efficiency of VAP which accompanies its extremely low thermal stability. Here, we designed several different variants of VAP with the aim of removing intersubunit interactions at the dimer interface. Breaking the intersubunit contacts from one residue in particular (Arg336) reduced the temperature stability of the catalytically potent conformation and caused a 40% drop in catalytic rate. The high catalytic rates of enzymes from cold‐adapted organisms are often associated with increased dynamic flexibility. Comparison of the relative B‐factors of the R336L crystal structure to that of the wild‐type confirmed surface flexibility was increased in a loop on the opposite monomer, but not in the large loop. The increase in flexibility resulted in a reduced catalytic rate. The large loop increases the area of the interface between the subunits through its contacts and may facilitate an alternating structural cycle demanded by a half‐of‐sites reaction mechanism through stronger ties, as the dimer oscillates between high affinity (active) or low phosphoryl group affinity (inactive).
Clinical and transcriptional recovery profiles in pediatric and adult multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Menascu Shay , Khavkin Yulia , Zilkha‐Falb Rina , Dolev Mark , Magalashvili David , Achiron Anat , Gurevich Michael
Published: November 2020

Objective

To determine whether pediatric‐onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) and adults‐onset multiple sclerosis (AOMS) patients are different in initial disease severity and recovery and to investigate the associations with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) transcriptional profiles.

Methods

Clinical and radiological severity of first and second relapses and 6‐month recovery were analyzed in 2153 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and compared between POMS (onset at 8–18years old) and AOMS (onset at 19–40 years old) patients. PBMCs transcriptomes of 15 POMS and 15 gender‐matched AOMS patients were analyzed 6 months after the first relapse and compared to 55 age‐matched healthy controls. Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) with a false discovery rate ≤ 10% were evaluated using the Partek software.

Results

POMS had increased Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score at first and second relapses, higher brain gadolinium‐enhancing T1‐lesions volume at first relapse, and more complete recovery after both relapses compared to AOMS. POMS patients, who recovered completely from the first relapse, were characterized by 19 DEGs that were mainly related to suppression of antigen presentation. Six upstream regulators of these genes were differentially expressed between pediatric and adult healthy controls. POMS patients, who showed no recovery from the first relapse, were characterized by 28 DEGs that were mainly associated with B‐cell activation. Five upstream regulators of these genes were differentially expressed between pediatric and adult healthy controls.

Interpretation

POMS patients may have more severe first and second relapses than AOMS. However, most often, POMS have better recovery that may be attributed to PBMCs age‐related transcriptional profiles associated with antigen presentation and B‐cell activation.
Long‐Lasting and Steady Triboelectric Energy Harvesting from Low‐Frequency Irregular Motions Using Escapement Mechanism
Authors: Han Kwan‐Woo , Kim Jong‐Nam , Rajabi‐Abhari Araz , Bui Van‐Tien , Kim Ji‐Seok , Choi Dukhyun , Oh Il‐Kwon
Published: November 2020

Most mechanical energy harvesters produce only small amounts of electrical power from extremely low‐frequency input motions and immediately stop generating electricity when mechanical kinetic energy is exhausted. Here, a steady, long‐lasting and power‐boosted triboelectric nanogenerator is reported that can efficiently harvest from extremely low‐frequency irregular motions of less than 0.1 Hz by utilizing an escapement mechanism and frequency up‐conversion device. The escapement mechanism‐based triboelectric nanogenerator (EM‐TENG) consists of a mechanical energy storage spring, escapement mechanism and a torsional resonator for regular operation and frequency up‐conversion. In addition, the micro‐patterned alternating dielectric surfaces of Nylon and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and the comb‐type rotator significantly improve the output performance of the rotational EM‐TENG, increasing the current density level approximately 4.2 times compared to flat surfaces. Under an input frequency of 0.067 Hz, the EM‐TENG produces an open circuit voltage of 320 V and a short‐circuit current density of 0.59 mA m‐2. Most importantly, the EM‐TENG can produce long‐lasting and steady output power for 110 s (22 times) under only 5 s of input motion. Therefore, the EM‐TENG might pave the way to effectively harvest energy from extremely low‐frequency motions in nature, such as human motion, structural vibration and ocean waves.
Admittance‐Controlled Robotic Assistant for Fibula Osteotomies in Mandible Reconstruction Surgery
Authors: Cheng Lingbo , Carriere Jay , Piwowarczyk Jakub , Aalto Daniel , Zemiti Nabil , de Boutray Marie , Tavakoli Mahdi
Published: November 2020

Herein, a semiautonomous robot control system for mandible reconstruction surgery is proposed. To reconstruct a segmental defect of the mandible caused by cancerous tissue, a piece of matched fibula bone is often segmented and used to replace the removed mandible section. Herein, to provide guidance to the surgeon during fibula segmentation according to the reconstruction surgical plan and improve the fibula bone cutting accuracy, an admittance‐controlled robotic assistant incorporating 3D augmented reality (AR) visualization and haptic virtual fixtures (VFs) is proposed. The admittance controller is used to reduce the surgeon's hand tremor. VF and AR are used to provide haptic and visual guidance to the surgeon, respectively. A feasibility study is conducted through a comparison of fibula osteotomies when performed with image‐guided surgery, AR‐guided surgery, VF‐guided robot‐assisted surgery, and AR‐ and VF‐guided robot‐assisted surgery. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed admittance‐controlled robotic assistant with AR and VF compared with the other three methods. The proposed method is found to be able to increase precision of the osteotomized segments with a lower average linear variation of 1.04 ± 0.79 mm and a lower average angular variation of 1.83 ± 1.85° compared with the virtual preoperative plan.
A Roadmap for Reaching the Potential of Brain‐Derived Computing
Authors: Aimone James B.
Published: November 2020

Neuromorphic computing is a critical future technology for the computing industry, but it has yet to achieve its promise and has struggled to establish a cohesive research community. A large part of the challenge is that full realization of the potential of brain inspiration requires advances in both device hardware, computing architectures, and algorithms. This simultaneous development across technology scales is unprecedented in the computing field. This article presents a strategy, framed by market and policy pressures, for moving past these current technological and cultural hurdles to realize its full impact across technology. Achieving the full potential of brain‐derived algorithms as well as post‐complementary metal–oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) scaling neuromorphic hardware requires appropriately balancing the near‐term opportunities of deep learning applications with the long‐term potential of less understood opportunities in neural computing.
A boy with Silver–Russell syndrome and Sotos syndrome
Authors: Schwaibold Eva M. C. , Beygo Jasmin , Obeid Katharina , Jauch Anna , Hinderhofer Katrin , Moog Ute
Published: November 2020

Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS) is characterized by pre‐ and postnatal growth deficiency. It is most often caused by hypomethylation of the paternal imprinting center 1 of chromosome 11p15.5. In contrast, Sotos syndrome is an overgrowth syndrome that results either from pathogenic NSD1 gene variants or copy number variations affecting the NSD1 gene. Here, we report on a 6 month‐old boy with severe short stature, relative macrocephaly, severe feeding difficulties with underweight, muscular hypotonia, motor delay, medullary nephrocalcinosis, bilateral sensorineural hearing impairment and facial dysmorphisms. SNP array revealed a 2.1 Mb de novo interstitial deletion of 5q35.2q35.3 encompassing the NSD1 gene. As Sotos syndrome could not satisfactorily explain his symptoms, diagnostic testing for SRS was initiated. It demonstrated hypomethylation of the imprinting center 1 of chromosome 11p15.5 confirming the clinically suspected SRS. We compared the symptoms of our patient with the typical clinical features of individuals with SRS and Sotos syndrome, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting the very unusual coincidence of both Sotos syndrome and SRS in the same patient.
Msx1 upregulates p27 expression to control cellular proliferation during valvuloseptal endocardial cushion formation in the chick embryonic heart
Authors: Yamagishi Toshiyuki , Narematsu Mayu , Nakajima Yuji
Published: November 2020

Cushion tissues, the primordia of valves and septa of the adult heart, are formed in the atrioventricular (AV) and outflow tract (OFT) regions of the embryonic heart. The cushion tissues are generated by the endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), involving many soluble factors, extracellular matrix, and transcription factors. Moreover, neural crest‐derived mesenchymal cells also migrate into the OFT cushion. The transcription factor Msx1 is known to be expressed in the endothelial and mesenchymal cells during cushion tissue formation. However, its exact role in EMT during cushion tissue formation is still unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression patterns of Msx1 mRNA and protein during chick heart development. Msx1 mRNA was localized in endothelial cells of the AV region at Stage 14, and its protein was first detected at Stage 15. Thereafter, Msx1 mRNA and protein were observed in the endothelial and mesenchymal cells of the OFT and AV regions. in vitro assays showed that ectopic Msx1 expression in endothelial cells induced p27, a cell‐cycle inhibitor, expression and inhibited fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4)‐induced cell proliferation. Although the FGF signal reduced the EMT‐inducing activities of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), ectopic Msx1 expression in endothelial cells enhanced TGFβ signaling‐induced αSMA, an EMT marker, expression. These results suggest that Msx1 may support the transformation of endothelial cells due to a TGFβ signal in EMT during cushion tissue formation.
Amelioration of Murine Macrophage Activation Syndrome by Monomethyl Fumarate in Both a Heme Oxygenase 1–Dependent and Heme Oxygenase 1–Independent Manner
Authors: Biswas Chhanda , Chu Niansheng , Burn Thomas N. , Kreiger Portia A. , Behrens Edward M.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) is characterized by increased serum levels of ferritin and heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1), and yet no known function is ascribed to these molecules in MAS. Because HO‐1 is antiinflammatory, we hypothesized that pharmacologic activation of HO‐1 could ameliorate MAS disease activity. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF), a treatment approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for multiple sclerosis, activates HO‐1. Monomethyl fumarate (MMF) is the active metabolite of DMF. We therefore evaluated whether MMF could elicit HO‐1–dependent therapeutic improvements in a murine model of MAS.

Methods

We induced MAS by repeated activation of Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR‐9) in wild‐type and myeloid‐specific HO‐1–deficient mice. MMF was administered twice daily to test its efficacy. We assessed organ weights, serum cytokine levels, histologic features of the spleen and liver tissue, and complete blood cell counts to evaluate disease activity. Statistical testing was performed using Student’s t‐test or by 2‐way analysis of variance as appropriate.

Results

The presence of HO‐1 was required for the majority of TLR‐9–induced interleukin‐10 (IL‐10). IL‐10 production in TLR‐9–induced MAS was found to correlate with the myeloid–HO‐1 gene dose in myeloid cells (P < 0.001). MMF treatment increased the levels of HO‐1 in splenic macrophages by ~2‐fold (P < 0.01), increased serum levels of IL‐10 in an HO‐1–dependent manner in mice with TLR‐9–induced MAS (P < 0.005), and improved multiple disease parameters in both an HO‐1–dependent and HO‐1–independent manner.

Conclusion

TLR‐9–induced production of IL‐10 is regulated by HO‐1 activity both in vitro and in vivo. Therapeutic enhancement of the HO‐1/IL‐10 axis in a murine model was able to significantly ameliorate MAS disease activity. These results suggest that HO‐1 may be viable as a MAS therapeutic target, and treatment with DMF and MMF should be considered in future investigations of MAS therapy.
How directors can build a purpose‐driven brand
Authors: Henman Linda
Published: November 2020

People serve on boards of nonprofits because they feel enthusiasm for the mission of the organization. Yet, many directors struggle to tell the story behind their passion. From the moment founders of the nonprofit opened their doors, people began crafting this story behind the mission. Every product they released, service they provided, individual they served or cause they supported helped them carve out a unique niche that helped them build brand identity. Too often, however, directors don't understand the role they should play in telling that story to build purpose into their growth strategies. However, when they simplify their brand so people understand it, they create more effective messaging that allows them to connect with customers and donors. This creates the advantage that differentiates them and allows them to stand out from the crowd.
Exploration of colonic looping patterns in undisturbed cadaveric specimens
Authors: Lam Jacob , Wilkinson James , Brown Jonathan , Spear Michelle , Brassett Cecilia
Published: November 2020

Introduction

This study examines sex differences in the disposition of the sigmoid and transverse segments of the colon in undisturbed cadaveric abdomens and relates these findings to the anecdotal observation that colonoscopy is more challenging in females through the formation of tortuous bowel loops.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and twenty two undisturbed cadaveric abdomens were inspected. Three distinct configuration grades were separately assigned to the sigmoid and transverse segments of the colon on the basis of the pattern of the bowel loops observed in situ. Pearson's chi‐squared test was used to analyze sex differences in bowel loop configuration and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient was calculated to identify co‐occurrence of configuration grades in the subjects.

Results

For the transverse segment, females had higher configuration grades corresponding to longer bowel loops with greater redundancy, compared to males (p = .000047). There was no sex difference in the sigmoid segment grade (p = .21636). Sigmoid and transverse segment grades were highly correlated in the subjects (coefficient = 0.9994).

Conclusion

Sex differences in the configuration grades of the sigmoid or transverse colonic segments may be a significant contributing factor to increased difficulty of colonoscopy in females.
Justice Amy Coney Barrett's confirmation could impact areas of higher ed law
Authors: Rooksby Jacob H.
Published: November 2020

Higher education administrators might wonder what Justice Amy Coney Barrett will bring to the field of higher education law in her new role on the U.S. Supreme Court. Her background as a University of Notre Dame Law Professor for 15 years indicates she has a lived understanding of the higher education environment, which could mean — should she side with the majority in a case involving higher education — she would be a natural pick for writing the court's majority opinion (she might compete for that role with Associate Justice Elena Kagan, former Harvard Law School Dean, depending on whether she, too, sided with the majority).