bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demand-oriented innovation policy: Mapping the field and proposing a research agenda for developing countries
Authors: Reyes-Mercado Pável , Angeles Adrianela , Larios-Hernández Guillermo Jesús
Published: February 2020

This article conducts a scoping review of demand side innovation policies and its associated instruments in relevant English language academic literature. Demand-side innovation policies aim to improve contextual conditions to encourage innovation adoption to address government-defined societal challenges. From the demand approach, innovation policy is expected to involve a directionality, which originates from collective priorities around relevant problems. Based on a scooping review of the innovation policy literature from the demand perspective, this research has characterized trends in the discussion about innovation policies that target such challenges, a perspective that complements the traditional supply side policy instruments. Findings indicate that literature on demand-side policies has mainly addressed energy and sustainability issues in European countries and China. Additionally, although demand-side policies have been advocated for a relatively long time, the literature recognizes that a policy mix involving also the supply-side can be more effective in encouraging innovation. In Latin America, demand-side policies have been poorly understood, leading to a defective implementation of policies and instruments. The stage of research on demand-side policies is still evolving and this article advances research propositions on innovation policy, with a deep focus on how they can be implemented in innovation-lagging developing countries.
Culture and university entrepreneurship
Authors: Corona Treviño Leonel
Published: February 2020

Latin American universities typically fulfil the functions of teaching, research and the dissemination of culture. To become entrepreneurial universities, they incorporate knowledge transfer or, more generally, the commercialization of academic research and involvement in socio-economic development. However, proposals have been made to treat culture as a horizontal activity that also encompasses the creation of university cultural enterprises. To achieve this requires the crossing of the Arts and Sciences and the promotion of the resulting knowledge transfer. Here, an exploratory study of 16 cultural firms in Mexico allows us to identify strategies aimed at enhancing the entrepreneurial potential of the universities’ cultural activities in the country.
Co-docencia en la universidad desde una ontología del devenir
Authors: Onsès Segarra Judit , Forés Miravalles Anna
Published: February 2020

Aquest article recull una innovació educativa que estem portant a terme aquest curs 2019-20 en el grau d’Educació Social a la Universitat de Barcelona, en concret a les assignatures relacionades amb el practicum. És una proposta de co-docència a la universitat com a llegat d’altres experiències prèvies de fórmules de co-docència i que ara prenen cos a partir de l’ontologia de l’esdevenir i per una situació propícia de serendipitat.
El feedback para la mejora del aprendizaje: una experiencia en la formación inicial de profesores
Authors: Ferreira Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2020

La retroalimentació descriptiva escrita, que es deriva de la pràctica de la avaluació formativa, juga un paper important en la millora de l'aprenentatge per part dels estudiants, doncs proporciona informació oportuna al estudiant sobre els aprenentatges realitzats, les seves dificultats i sobre les indicacions per superar-los. Fou a partir d'aquesta idea que al llarg del curs escolar 2018/2019, vam realitzar una experiència de retroalimentació descriptiva escrita en la planificació de classes per a futurs mestres, en l'àmbit d'una assignatura semestral de pràctiques. L'objectiu d'aquesta experiència va ser el de verificar si aquesta retroalimentació contribueix en la millora del seu aprenentatge en la tasca de la pràctica docent d'aquests estudiants. En els comentaris, que es van proporcionar en la retroalimentació escrita, es va indicar el que estava ben fet i el que feia falta millorar o corregir. A la vegada es van donar orientacions per fer-ho. Amb això vam descobrir que els estudiants estaven millorant el seu acompliment en la preparació de la planificació de les seves classes al llarg del semestre, superant les dificultats diagnosticades a l'inici de la preparació d'aquesta tasca.
El trabajo colaborativo online como herramienta didáctica en Espacios de Enseñanza Superior (EEES). Percepciones de los estudiantes de los Grados en Educación Infantil y Primaria
Authors: Cotán Fernández Almudena , Martínez Valderrey Vanesa , García Lázaro Irene , Gil-Mediavilla Manuel , Gallardo-López José Alberto
Published: February 2020

En aquest article s'analitzen els resultats parcials obtinguts en un projecte de recerca d'una universitat de titularitat privada, situada en la zona nord d' Espanya. L'objectiu general de l'estudi es va dirigir a conèixer la percepció de l'alumnat dels graus d'educació infantil i d'educació primària sobre els processos organitzatius que es van establir al llarg del desenvolupament de treballs col·laboratius online. La metodologia utilitzada fou de tall qualitatiu. La recollida de dades es va fer mitjançant l'administració d'entrevistes estructurades. L'anàlisi dels resultats es va fer en tres grans blocs de contingut: 1) implicacions didàctiques de la participació en treballs col·laboratius; 2) avantatges i inconvenients trobats i 3) propostes de millora suggerides. Entre les principals conclusions extretes destaca que la participació en aquest tipus de tasca suposa una primera aproximació al futur professional docent dels estudiants en formació, amb la que, a més es fomenta l'establiment de xarxes de recolzament a l'aprenentatge, així com, que la falta d'implicació i de comunicació presencial dificulten el desenvolupament competencial perseguit amb aquesta eina pedagògica. Entre les propostes de millora formulades es distingeixen la creació de canals de comunicació síncrons; la determinació de co-avaluacions anònimes entre els membres del grup i l'elaboració de document de compromís.
Per què vols ser mestre? Com és un bon mestre? Idees per a la formació universitària.
Authors: Mellen Vinagre Teodor
Published: February 2020

This article focuses on teacher training in higher education, specifically on the education students studying the Catalan Bachelor’s Degree in Teacher in Primary Education. It reports on the results of a survey asking students why they wanted to be teachers and what they thought made a good teacher. It also reflects on the current state of teacher training at universities today. To complete the research, quantitative data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire containing open-ended, pre-coded questions completed by a representative sample of students. Drawing from the results, the researchers created three main categories of teacher: the first was the personable and authentic teacher, the professional who exerts an influence on students by virtue of their character or personality; the second was a narrator of stories, meaning the person who teaches lessons in a such way that they become memorable; and the third was a motivator for learning, meaning the teacher that is able to organise spaces and times in ways that help students learn with ease and enthusiasm. These and the other findings should offer food for thought for the teacher trainers in higher education.
Fine gust front structure observed by coherent Doppler lidar at Lanzhou Airport (103°49
′
E, 36°03
′
N)
Authors: Han Yuli , Liu Jie , Sun Dongsong , Han Fei , Zhou Anran , Zhao Ruocan , Xue Xianghui , Chen Tingdi , Zhen Fudong , Lu Ye
Published: February 2020

Coherent Doppler lidar (CDL) has long been used to automatically identify gust front-induced wind shear signatures from the velocity data, but rare attention has been given to the fine structure of wind gust fronts. In this work, a compact and robust CDL with high efficiency and accuracy is equipped at Lanzhou Airport (103°49

′

E, 36°03

′

N) to conduct interpretation of wind gust front structures by using high-resolution CDL data. Outflows of gust fronts could be detected reliably from radial velocities, spectral widths, as well as radial shears. For the case study presented here, photographs of the velocity and spectrum width capacitates gust front characteristics such as height, advance speed, and radial shear, as well as vertical structure to be displayed in minute detail. Besides, the quasi-continuous vertical wind reveals the potential turbulent mixing and vertical transport process during the gust front event, which makes CDL a very attractive and essential technique for future development of gust front automatic detection systems.
Cascaded single-mode fibers for higher-order soliton compression at 2  µm
Authors: Wang Fumin , Li Qian
Published: February 2020

We present the design of single-mode fibers for two-stage higher-order soliton compression at 2 µm wavelength and achieve high-degree pulse compression in cascaded single-mode fibers. The compression performance for the initial input pulse width from 1 to 50 ps is also investigated. For the initial third-order soliton of 10 ps, a compression factor of 75.7 has been achieved, and the pedestal energy is only 46.66%.
Standoff chemical plume detection in turbulent atmospheric conditions with a swept-wavelength external cavity quantum cascade laser
Authors: Phillips Mark C. , Bernacki Bruce E. , Harilal Sivanandan S. , Yeak Jeremy , Jones R. Jason
Published: February 2020

Rapid and sensitive standoff measurement techniques are needed for detection of trace chemicals in outdoor plume releases, for example from industrial emissions, unintended chemical leaks or spills, burning of biomass materials, or chemical warfare attacks. Here, we present results from 235 m standoff detection of transient plumes for 5 gas-phase chemicals: Freon 152a (1,1-difluoroethane), Freon 134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane), methanol (CH3OH), nitrous oxide (N2O), and ammonia (NH3). A swept-wavelength external cavity quantum cascade laser (ECQCL) measures infrared absorption spectra over the range 955-1195 cm−1 (8.37- 10.47 µm), from which chemical concentrations are determined via spectral fits. The fast 400 Hz scan rate of the swept-ECQCL enables measurement above the turbulence time-scales, reducing noise and allowing plume fluctuations to be measured. For high-speed plume detection, noise-equivalent column densities of 1-2 ppm*m are demonstrated with 2.5 ms time resolution, improving to 100-400 ppb*m with 100 ms averaging.
Divide and conquer: high-accuracy and real-time 3D reconstruction of static objects using multiple-phase-shifted structured light illumination
Authors: Liu Kai , Hua Wenqi , Wei Jinghe , Song Jianwen , Lau Daniel L. , Zhu Ce , Xu Bin
Published: February 2020

Multiple-phase-shifted structured light illumination achieves high-accuracy 3D reconstructions of static objects, while typically it can’t achieve real-time phase computation. In this paper, we propose to compute modulations and phases of multiple scans in real time by using divide-and-conquer solutions. First, we categorize total N = KM images into M groups and each group contains K phase equally shifted images; second, we compute the phase of each group; and finally, we obtain the final phase by averaging all the separately computed phases. When K = 3, 4 or 6, we can use integer-valued intensities of images as inputs and build one or M look-up tables storing real-valued phases computed by using arctangent function. Thus, with addition and/or subtraction operations computing indices of the tables, we can directly access the pre-computed phases and avoid time-consuming arctangent computation. Compared with K-step phase measuring profilometry repeated for M times, the proposed is robust to nonlinear distortion of structured light systems. Experiments show that, first, the proposed is of the same accuracy level as the traditional algorithm, and secondly, with employing one core of a central processing unit, compared with the classical 12-step phase measuring profilometry algorithm, for K = 4 and M = 3, the proposed improves phase computation by a factor of 6 ×.
Au-nanorod-clusters patterned optical fiber SERS probes fabricated by laser-induced evaporation self-assembly method
Authors: Zhou Fei , Liu Ye , Wang Hongcheng , Wei Yadong , Zhang Geng , Ye Hai , Chen Manna , Ling Dongxiong
Published: February 2020

Optical fiber surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) probes provide a novel platform for liquid-phase in situ and remote SERS detections. However, it is still a challenge to fabricate noble metal nanostructures with large SERS enhancement factor (EF) onto optical fiber surfaces. In this article, we successfully prepare Au-nanorod cluster structures on optical fiber facets by a laboratory-developed laser-induced evaporation self-assembly method. It is demonstrated that the optimized optical fiber SERS probes show high detection sensitivity (10−10 M for rhodamine 6G solution, and 10−8 M for malachite green or crystal violet solution) and excellent reproducibility (relative standard deviation less than 6%). As the laser-induced evaporation self-assembly method is a simple and low-cost method capable of achieving automatic and reproducible preparations of cluster patterned optical fiber SERS probes, this work may find important application prospects in various liquid-phase SERS detection areas.
Efficient calculation scheme for high pixel resolution non-hogel-based computer generated hologram from light field
Authors: Park Jae-Hyeung
Published: February 2020

We propose a method that reduces the computation time and memory requirement in non-hogel-based hologram synthesis from light field data. The non-hogel-based technique synthesizes coherent complex field for a three-dimensional scene from its light field. Unlike conventional holographic stereogram, the non-hogel-based technique reconstructs continuous parabolic wavefront for individual three-dimensional object point by globally processing the light field. However, the global processing increases the computational load significantly, making it hard to synthesize holograms with high pixel resolution. The proposed technique reduces the computational burden by processing each two-dimensional angular frequency slice of the four-dimensional light field independently. Hologram tiling technique is also proposed to make the hologram synthesis process scalable. Using the hologram tiling and the angular-frequency-slice-based processing, 25K×25 K pixel resolution hologram was synthesized successfully.
Unveiling delay-time-resolved phase noise statistics of narrow-linewidth laser via coherent optical time domain reflectometry
Authors: Zhang Liang , Chen Liang , Bao Xiaoyi
Published: February 2020

Laser with high spectral purity plays a crucial role in high-precision optical metrology and coherent communication. Thanks to the rapid development of laser frequency stabilization, the laser phase noise can be remarkably compensated, allowing its ultra-narrow linewidth subject to mostly quantum limit. Nevertheless, the accurate characterization of phase noise statistics and its linewidth of a highly coherent laser remains ambiguous and challenging. Here, we present an approach capable of revealing delay-time-resolved phase noise statistics of a coherent laser based on coherent optical time domain reflectometry (COTDR), in which distributed Rayleigh scattering along a delay fiber essentially allows a time-of-flight mapping of a heterodyne beating signal associated with delay-time-dependent phase information from a single laser source. Ultimately, this novel technique facilitates precise measurement of ultra-narrow laser linewidth by exploiting its delay-time-resolved phase jitter statistics of random fiber laser with pump lasers of various linewidths, confirmed with the analytical modeling and numerical simulations.
Experimental extraction of nonlocal weak values for demonstrating the failure of a product rule
Authors: Xu Xiao-Ye , Pan Wei-Wei , Kedem Yaron , Wang Qin-Qin , Sun Kai , Xu Jin-Shi , Han Yong-Jian , Chen Geng , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can
Published: February 2020

We experimentally demonstrate an alternative method for measuring nonlocal weak values in linear optics, avoiding the use of second-order interaction. The method is based on the concept of modular values. The paths of two photons, initialized in hyperentangled states, are adopted as the meter with the polarization acting as the system. The modular values are read out through the reconstructed final states of the meter. The weak value of nonlocal observables is given through its connection to the modular value. Comparing the weak values of local and nonlocal observables, we demonstrate the failure of product rules for an entangled system. Our results significantly simplify the task of measuring nonlocal weak values and will play an important role in the application of weak measurement.
Higher-order QAM data transmission using a high-coherence hybrid Si/III–V semiconductor laser
Authors: Zou Kaiheng , Zhang Zhewei , Liao Peicheng , Wang Huolei , Cao Yinwen , Almaiman Ahmed , Fallahpour Ahmad , Alishahi Fatemeh , Satyan Naresh , Rakuljic George , Tur Moshe , Yariv Amnon , Willner Alan E.
Published: February 2020

We experimentally demonstrate the use of a high-coherence hybrid silicon (Si)/III–V semiconductor laser as the light source for a transmitter generating 20 Gbaud 16- and 64- quadrature amplitude modulated (QAM) data signals over an 80 km single-mode fiber (SMF) link. The hybrid Si/III–V laser has a measured Schawlow–Townes linewidth of

∼

10

k
H
z

, which is achieved by storing modal optical energy in low-loss Si, rather than the relatively lossy III–V materials. We measure a received bit error rate (BER) of

4.1

×

10

−
3

when transmitting the 64-QAM data over an 80 km SMF using the hybrid Si/III–V laser. Furthermore, we measure a BER of

<

1

×

10

−
4

with the Viterbi–Viterbi digital carrier phase recovery method when transmitting the 16-QAM data over an 80 km SMF using the hybrid Si/III–V laser. This performance is achieved at power penalties lower than those obtained with an exemplary distributed feedback laser and slightly higher than those with an exemplary narrow-linewidth external cavity laser.
Linear and nonlinear optical properties of co-sputtered Ge-Sb-Se amorphous thin films
Authors: Halenkovič Tomáš , Gutwirth Jan , Kuriakose Tintu , Bouška Marek , Chauvet Mathieu , Renversez Gilles , Němec Petr , Nazabal Virginie
Published: February 2020

Amorphous Ge-Sb-Se thin films were co-sputtered from

G
e
S
e

4

and

S
b

2

S
e

3

targets. Depending on the film composition, linear optical properties were studied by ellipsometry. The Kerr coefficient and two-photon absorption coefficient were estimated using Sheik-Bahae’s formalism for co-sputtered films of

G
e
S
e

4

-

S
b

2

S
e

3

compared to

G
e
S
e

2

-

S
b

2

S
e

3

pseudo-binary system and

A
s

2

S
e

3

as reference. The Kerr coefficient was found within the range of

4.9

–

−
21
×

10

−
18

. Quantitatively by means of a figure of merit at 1.55 µm, thin films with compositions of

G
e

7

S
b

25

S
e

68

and

G
e

9

S
b

20

S
e

71

having an estimated Kerr coefficient of about

10.1

×

10

−
18

m

2

W

−
1

and

13.4

×

10

−
18

m

2

W

−
1

should be considered for the future nonlinear optical integrated platforms. Such compositions being close to

(

G
e
S
e

4

)

50

(

S
b

2

S
e

3

)

50

pseudo-binary (i.e., 

G
e

7.5

S
b

25.0

S
e

67.5

) provides just the trade-off between a high Kerr coefficient and low optical losses related to two-photon absorption.
Towards simultaneous observation of path and interference of a single photon in a modified Mach–Zehnder interferometer
Authors: Qi Fenghua , Wang Zhiyuan , Xu Weiwang , Chen Xue-Wen , Li Zhi-Yuan
Published: February 2020

Classical wisdom of wave–particle duality regulates that a quantum object shows either the particle or wave nature but never both. Consequently, it would be impossible to observe simultaneously the complete wave and particle nature of the quantum object. Mathematically the principle requests that the interference visibility

V

and which-path distinguishability

D

satisfy an orthodox limit of

V
2

+

D
2

≤
1

. The present work reports a new wave–particle duality test experiment using single photons in a modified Mach–Zehnder interferometer to demonstrate the possibility of breaking the limit. The key element of the interferometer is a weakly scattering total internal reflection prism surface, which exhibits a pronounced single-photon interference with a visibility of up to 0.97 and simultaneously provides a path distinguishability of 0.83. Apparently, the result of

V
2

+

D
2

≈
1.63

exceeds the orthodox limit set by the classical principle of wave–particle duality for single photons. We expect that more delicate experiments in the future should be able to demonstrate the ultimate limit of

V
2

+

D
2

≈
2

and shed new light on the foundations of contemporary quantum mechanics.
How ethical leadership is related to authenticity
Authors: Demont-Biaggi Florian
Published: February 2020

In this conceptual paper, I shall explain one concrete way of defining ethical leadership, namely authentic leadership. After a description of the ethical components some canonical proponents envisage, objections from the recent literature will be discussed. The main focus will be on how the concept of authenticity helps us to better understand ethical leadership. The central line of thought is this: If we construe authenticity in interactional and processual terms, where leadership is seen as a process of interaction between people in concrete contexts, then we may identify patterns of leadership development through which we can make sense of how authenticity and ethics are related. In the end, as will be argued, these patterns have one pivot: authenticity and ethics come together in a leader's moral conscience. But moral conscience also has important implications on the level of interactions between people in groups and thus affect how ethical leadership influences followers and organizational structures. It is this last thought, which will conclude the article.
Fit for Purpose Community Mapping in South Africa
Authors: Pinfold Nicholas , El Kaftangui Mohamed
Published: February 2020

Communal areas in South Africa invariably lack cadastre and other information needed for sustainable planning. Usually land ownership is unclear and only limited state capacity exists in providing basic services infrastructure. This paper describes community mapping as a participatory means to encourage development. The impact of community-based mapping is assessed and if participatory methodology can fulfil its well-known objectives. Reflections on two community-based mapping projects facilitated with residents show that in these circumstances, community-based mapping is effective in bringing about change. Flamingo Crescent is an urban informal settlement located in Lansdowne, Cape Town. Informal settlements such as these are high density and organic, making service delivery difficult due to the lack of space. Re-blocking is an in-situ method of upgrading an informal settlement so that basic service and access can be provided. The Goedverwacht Moravian Mission Station in the Western Cape has no internal cadastral boundaries and therefore the spatial framework is fuzzy and confusing. The objective of the study is to use a mapping technique that is economically viable, fast and at an accuracy determined by purpose rather than technical and legal requirements for formal land registration. Findings spotlight some of the advantages of community-based mapping during these projects by assessing their impact using critical outcomes of participation, empowerment and ownership.
Memories of the future
Authors: Gerasimov Gregory A.
Published: February 2020

With bated breath we follow the fate of the long-suffering law On the prevention of diseases caused by iodine deficiency. What can be expected in terms of improving public health after the adoption and successful implementation of this bill, which provides for the enrichment with iodine of edible salt of extra, higher and first varieties, grinding No. 0 and No. 1? In addition, in the production of bakery products, the recipe of which contains edible salt, the use of iodized salt will become mandatory. According to the experience of many near and far countries, within 23 years from the start of the program of mandatory salt iodization, one can expect a significant (at times) reduction in the incidence of endemic goiter. This trend will not exhaust itself in subsequent years. In the medium term (after about 10 years), a decrease (by half or more) in the incidence of thyrotoxicosis can also be expected in Russia. However, in the short term (57 years), a transient increase in the incidence of thyrotoxicosis in people over 60 years of age is possible, which can be considered a kind of payment for the previous iodine deficiency. The trend towards an increase in the incidence of subclinical and, possibly, manifest hypothyroidism may continue, but this will not be a consequence of an increase in iodine supply. Optimization of iodine intake against the background of mandatory salt iodization should reduce the frequency of transient disorders of thyroid function in newborns and, possibly, congenital hypothyroidism.
Zur Wirkungsmessung digitaler Transformationsprozesse in Arbeitswelten
Authors: Becka Denise , Enste Peter , Ludwig Christine
Published: February 2020

In der Debatte um die Digitalisierung der Arbeitswelt adressieren empirische Forschungsarbeiten Veränderungen von Arbeitsmärkten, Arbeitsplätzen, Berufen, Tätigkeitsprofilen und Tätigkeiten in verschiedenen Settings. Ein Überblick über Verfahren zur Messung von Auswirkungen der Digitalisierung auf die Arbeitswelt fehlt bislang. Der Beitrag untersucht anhand eines systematischen Literaturreviews Methoden zur Wirkungsmessung digitalisierter Arbeit in empirischen Studien. Zentrale Fragen adressieren die Konzeptualisierung und Operationalisierung von Digitalisierung im Arbeitskontext sowie die methodische Konzeption von Wirkungsanalysen. Die in das Review eingeschlossenen Studien konzentrieren sich auf arbeitsmarkt- sowie branchenbezogene Untersuchungen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen eine breite Spanne von eingesetzten Methoden auf, die qualitative sowie quantitative Untersuchungen einschließt und von retrospektiven Wirkungsmessungen bis hin zu prospektiven Wirkungsprojektionen reicht. Die Weiterentwicklung von Instrumenten zur Wirkungsmessung digitalisierter Arbeitswelten kann von einer stärkeren Konzentration auf Wirkungsdynamiken sowie themenzentrierte Analysen, beispielsweise zum (informellen) Erwerb digitaler Kompetenzen, profitieren.
Mitbestimmung und Partizipation im Transformationsprozess zur Industrie 4.0
Authors: Kuhlenkötter Bernd , Lins Dominik , Niewerth Claudia , Prinz Christopher , Schäfer Marvin , Wannöffel Manfred
Published: February 2020

Der digitale Transformationsprozess der Arbeitswelt unterliegt keinem technologischen Determinismus, sondern stellt das Ergebnis eines komplexen soziotechnischen Aushandlungsprozesses dar – er ist arbeitspolitisch gestaltbar. Die übergeordneten Forschungsfragen dieser Studie legen den Fokus auf zwei Aspekte des soziotechnischen Transformationsprozesses: den Umsetzungsstand von Industrie 4.0 in nordrhein-westfälischen Industrieunternehmen und die Wirkung von Schulungsmaßnahmen für Betriebsrät_innen als Methodenelement für die Befähigung der betrieblichen Interessenvertretung zur Gestaltung des Wandels. Der Logik des explorativen Signifikanztestens folgend, werden quantitative Ergebnisse als Grundlage genutzt, um Hypothesen abzuleiten, die sich in Folgestudien als A-priori-Hypothesen prüfen lassen. Wie bereits in der durch das Forschungsinstitut für gesellschaftliche Weiterentwicklung (FGW) veröffentlichten Studie „Industrie 4.0: Mitbestimmen – mitgestalten. Umsetzungsstand von Industrie 4.0 in nordrhein-westfälischen Industrieunternehmen“ wird die Datengrundlage durch die Angaben von 144 Betriebsrät_innen, 137 Beschäftigten und 52 Vertreter_innen der Geschäftsführung aus 51 nordrhein-westfälischen Industrieunternehmen gebildet.
The application of
137
Cs and
210
Pb

ex

methods in soil erosion research of Titel loess plateau, Vojvodina, Northern Serbia
Authors: Kalkan Kristina S. , Forkapić Sofija , Marković Slobodan B. , Bikit Kristina , Gavrilov Milivoj B. , Tošić Radislav , Mrđa Dušan , Lakatoš Robert
Published: February 2020

Soil erosion is one of the largest global problems of environmental protection and sustainable development, causing serious land degradation and environmental deterioration. The need for fast and accurate soil rate assessment of erosion and deposition favors the application of alternative methods based on the radionuclide measurement technique contrary to long-term conventional methods. In this paper, we used gamma spectrometry measurements of 137Cs and unsupported 210Pb
ex
in order to quantify the erosion on the Titel Loess Plateau near the Tisa (Tisza) River in the Vojvodina province of Serbia. Along the slope of the study area and in the immediate vicinity eight representative soil depth profiles were taken and the radioactivity content in 1 cm thick soil layers was analyzed. Soil erosion rates were estimated according to the profile distribution model and the diffusion and migration model for undisturbed soil. The net soil erosion rates, estimated by 137Cs method range from −2.3 t ha−1 yr−1 to −2.7 t ha−1 yr−1, related to the used conversion model which is comparable to published results of similar studies of soil erosion in the region. Vertical distribution of natural radionuclides in soil profiles was also discussed and compared with the profile distribution of unsupported 210Pb
ex
measurements. The use of diffusion and migration model to convert the results of 210Pb
ex
activities to soil redistribution rates indicates a slightly higher net erosion of −3.7 t ha−1 yr−1 with 98% of the sediment delivery ratio.
From the perspective of the object in semiotics: Deleuze and Peirce
Authors: Dawkins Roger
Published: February 2020

From Peirce, a sign represents something other than itself, an object, for some third; from Deleuze, a sign can create and erase an object, for some third. He makes this claim in the cinema books, without detailed explication. It is a fleeting reference to the Peircean triad developed in his semiotics; moreover, references to “objects” in Deleuze’s discussions of signs in his other work are often generic. In this essay, I explain what it means in Deleuze’s semiotics for a sign to create and erase its object. My method is to use the perspective of the object in the semiotic triad to compare Deleuze and Peirce’s semiotics. Deleuze’s sign that creates and erases its object marks a clear departure from Peirce’s semiotics. For Deleuze, like Peirce, an acquaintance with the object independent of the action of the sign is necessary for semiotics. Of most significance is that for Peirce, thinking with signs necessarily involves modifying prior knowledge of the object – meaning one’s conception of the object is a version of what was already known; while for Deleuze, thinking with signs can involve producing ideas at a second remove from the object – in turn, creating and erasing new object(s). Ultimately, this essay contributes to research on Deleuze’s cinema books by undertaking a detailed reading of a part of his discussion that has not been analyzed. Furthermore, in producing Deleuze’s concept of a sign that creates and erases its object, this essay reminds us how we think – andcouldthink – with signs, reaffirming the importance of semiotic analysis for discussion about thinking with signs. Finally, this essay contributes to scholarship on Deleuze’s and Peirce’s semiotics.
Stärkung der Rolle des Aufsichtsrats durch den BGH
Authors: Vetter Eberhard
Published: February 2020

In einer Entscheidung vom 30. April 2018 hat der 2. Zivilsenat des BGH die Vertretungsmacht des Aufsichtsrats nicht nur anerkannt, wenn es um die Erteilung eines Auftrags an einen Experten gemäß § 111 Abs. 2 Satz 2 AktG zur Durchführung einer internen Untersuchung geht, sondern auch, wenn es anschließend mit dem Experten zum Rechtsstreit über die Auftragsdurchführung kommt. Die Rechtsfortbildung des BGH begrenzt die allgemeine Vertretungsmacht des Vorstands und stützt sich auf das Gebot der Unabhängigkeit und Eigenverantwortlichkeit des Aufsichtsrats bei der Wahrnehmung seiner Überwachungsaufgabe gegenüber dem Vorstand. Das Urteil stärkt die Position des Aufsichtsrats und ist auch bei der Ausübung der Kompetenzen des Aufsichtsrats jenseits von § 111 Abs. 2 Satz 2 AktG von Bedeutung. Der Beitrag analysiert diese Auswirkungen des Urteils.
Chronic Stress Induces Maladaptive Behaviors by Activating Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Signaling in the Mouse Oval Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis
Authors: Hu Pu , Liu Ji , Maita Isabella , Kwok Christopher , Gu Edward , Gergues Mark M. , Kelada Frederric , Phan Mimi , Zhou Jiang-Ning , Swaab Dick F. , Pang Zhiping P. , Lucassen Paul J. , Roepke Troy A. , Samuels Benjamin A.
Published: February 2020

The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a forebrain region highly responsive to stress that expresses corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and is implicated in mood disorders, such as anxiety. However, the exact mechanism by which chronic stress induces CRH-mediated dysfunction in BNST and maladaptive behaviors remains unclear. Here, we first confirmed that selective acute optogenetic activation of the oval nucleus BNST (ovBNST) increases maladaptive avoidance behaviors in male mice. Next, we found that a 6 week chronic variable mild stress (CVMS) paradigm resulted in maladaptive behaviors and increased cellular excitability of ovBNST CRH neurons by potentiating mEPSC amplitude, altering the resting membrane potential, and diminishing M-currents (a voltage-gated K+current that stabilizes membrane potential) inex vivoslices. CVMS also increased c-fos+cells in ovBNST following handling. We next investigated potential molecular mechanism underlying the electrophysiological effects and observed that CVMS increased CRH+and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide+(PACAP; a CRH upstream regulator) cells but decreased striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase+(a STEP CRH inhibitor) cells in ovBNST. Interestingly, the electrophysiological effects of CVMS were reversed by CRHR1-selective antagonist R121919 application. CVMS also activated protein kinase A (PKA) in BNST, and chronic infusion of the PKA-selective antagonist H89 into ovBNST reversed the effects of CVMS. Coadministration of the PKA agonist forskolin prevented the beneficial effects of R121919. Finally, CVMS induced an increase in surface expression of phosphorylated GluR1 (S845) in BNST. Collectively, these findings highlight a novel and indispensable stress-induced role for PKA-dependent CRHR1 signaling in activating BNST CRH neurons and mediating maladaptive behaviors.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTChronic stress and acute activation of oval bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (ovBNST) induces maladaptive behaviors in rodents. However, the precise molecular and electrophysiological mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that chronic variable mild stress activates corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)-associated stress signaling and CRH neurons in ovBNST by potentiating mEPSC amplitude and decreasing M-current in male mice. These electrophysiological alterations and maladaptive behaviors were mediated by BNST protein kinase A-dependent CRHR1 signaling. Our results thus highlight the importance of BNST CRH dysfunction in chronic stress-induced disorders.
But Still It Moves: Static Image Statistics Underlie How We See Motion
Authors: Rideaux Reuben , Welchman Andrew E.
Published: February 2020

Seeing movement promotes survival. It results from an uncertain interplay between evolution and experience, making it hard to isolate the drivers of computational architectures found in brains. Here we seek insight into motion perception using a neural network (MotionNet) trained on moving images to classify velocity. The network recapitulates key properties of motion direction and speed processing in biological brains, and we use it to derive, and test, understanding of motion (mis)perception at the computational, neural, and perceptual levels. We show that diverse motion characteristics are largely explained by the statistical structure of natural images, rather than motion per se. First, we show how neural and perceptual biases for particular motion directions can result from the orientation structure of natural images. Second, we demonstrate an interrelation between speed and direction preferences in (macaque) MT neurons that can be explained by image autocorrelation. Third, we show that natural image statistics mean that speed and image contrast are related quantities. Finally, using behavioral tests (humans, both sexes), we show that it is knowledge of the speed-contrast association that accounts for motion illusions, rather than the distribution of movements in the environment (the “slow world” prior) as premised by Bayesian accounts. Together, this provides an exposition of motion speed and direction estimation, and produces concrete predictions for future neurophysiological experiments. More broadly, we demonstrate the conceptual value of marrying artificial systems with biological characterization, moving beyond “black box” reproduction of an architecture to advance understanding of complex systems, such as the brain.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTUsing an artificial systems approach, we show that physiological properties of motion can result from natural image structure. In particular, we show that the anisotropic distribution of orientations in natural statistics is sufficient to explain the cardinal bias for motion direction. We show that inherent autocorrelation in natural images means that speed and direction are related quantities, which could shape the relationship between speed and direction tuning of MT neurons. Finally, we show that movement speed and image contrast are related in moving natural images, and that motion misperception can be explained by this speed-contrast association not a “slow world” prior.
Area-Specific Synapse Structure in Branched Posterior Nucleus Axons Reveals a New Level of Complexity in Thalamocortical Networks
Authors: Rodriguez-Moreno Javier , Porrero Cesar , Rollenhagen Astrid , Rubio-Teves Mario , Casas-Torremocha Diana , Alonso-Nanclares Lidia , Yakoubi Rachida , Santuy Andrea , Merchan-Pérez Angel , DeFelipe Javier , Lübke Joachim H.R. , Clasca Francisco
Published: February 2020

Thalamocortical posterior nucleus (Po) axons innervating the vibrissal somatosensory (S1) and motor (MC) cortices are key links in the brain neuronal network that allows rodents to explore the environment whisking with their motile snout vibrissae. Here, using fine-scale high-end 3D electron microscopy, we demonstrate in adult male C57BL/6 wild-type mice marked differences between MC versus S1 Po synapses in (1) bouton and active zone size, (2) neurotransmitter vesicle pool size, (3) distribution of mitochondria around synapses, and (4) proportion of synapses established on dendritic spines and dendritic shafts. These differences are as large, or even more pronounced, than those between Po and ventro-posterior thalamic nucleus synapses in S1. Moreover, using single-axon transfection labeling, we demonstrate that the above differences actually occur on the MC versus the S1 branches of individual Po cell axons that innervate both areas. Along with recently-discovered divergences in efficacy and plasticity, the synaptic structure differences reported here thus reveal a new subcellular level of complexity. This is a finding that upends current models of thalamocortical circuitry, and that might as well illuminate the functional logic of other branched projection axon systems.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMany long-distance brain connections depend on neurons whose branched axons target separate regions. Using 3D electron microscopy and single-cell transfection, we investigated the mouse Posterior thalamic nucleus (Po) cell axons that simultaneously innervate motor and sensory areas of the cerebral cortex involved in whisker movement control. We demonstrate significant differences in the size of the boutons made in each area by individual Po axons, as well as in functionally-relevant parameters in the composition of their synapses. In addition, we found similarly large differences between the synapses of Po versus ventral posteromedial thalamic nucleus axons in the whisker sensory cortex. Area-specific synapse structure in individual axons implies a new, unsuspected level of complexity in long-distance brain connections.
“We Are All Musicologists Now”; or, the End of Ethnomusicology
Authors: Amico Stephen
Published: February 2020

Situated in the context of current examinations of academic disciplinarity, this article contributes to the decades-long discussions (or debates) regarding the status of ethnomusicology, arguing forcefully for the (sub-)discipline’s cessation. A focus on ethnomusicology’s very prefix, “ethn-”, exposes the field’s historical and continuing reliance upon colonialist ideology, continually reproduced in relation to both ethnicity (constructed in relation to interrelated discourses of authenticity, technology, and gender) and ethnography. Highlighting the extent to which a field-defining ideological-methodological matrix has led to the production of a theoretical narrowness predicated upon and engendering the construction of “Others,” it is commitment to inter-, trans-, or post-disciplinarity (rather than disciplinary dogmatism) that is shown to promise a vital and relevant space for explorations of sound and music within current and future university spaces. Ultimately, given the inherent restrictions and limitations suggested by prefixes or qualifiers of any sort, it is the appellation musicology that may best serve as a (provisional) marker for interdisciplinary inquiry, its very re-appropriation (from its own historical circumscriptions) serving as an act rife with symbolic significance.
Necessity for LH in selection and continued growth of the bovine dominant follicle
Authors: Gomez-León Victor E , Ginther O J , Domingues Rafael R , Guimarães José D , Wiltbank Milo C
Published: February 2020

Previous research demonstrated that acute treatment with GnRH antagonist, Acyline, allowed follicle growth until ~8.5 mm and no dominant follicle was selected. This study evaluated whether deficient LH was the underlying mechanism for Acyline effects by replacing LH action, using human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), during Acyline treatment. Holstein heifers (n = 24) during first follicular wave were evaluated by ultrasound and randomized into one of three treatments: Control (saline treatments), Acyline (5 µg/kg Acyline), or Acyline+hCG (Acyline plus 50 IU of hCG at start then 100 IU every 12 h). Pulses of LH were present in Control heifers (9 Pulses/10 h) but not during Acyline treatment. Data were normalized to the transition to diameter deviation (day 0; F1 ~7.5 mm). Diameter deviation of the largest (F1) and the second largest (F2) follicle was not observed in Acyline-treated heifers, whereas control heifers had decreased growth of F2 at F1 ~7.5 mm, indicating deviation. Selection of a single dominant follicle was restored by providing LH activity in Acyline+hCG heifers, as evidenced by F1 and F2 deviation, continued growth of F1, and elevated circulating estradiol. Separation of F1 and F2 occurred 12 h (~7.0 mm) earlier in Acyline+hCG heifers than Controls. Circulating FSH was greater in Acyline than Controls, but lower in Acyline+hCG than Controls after day 1.5. In conclusion, dominant follicle selection and growth after follicle deviation is due to LH action as shown by inhibition of this process during ablation of GnRH-stimulated LH pulses with Acyline and restoration of it after replacement of LH action by hCG treatment.
Sex Chromosome Evolution in Muscid Flies
Authors: Meisel Richard P , Olafson Pia U , Adhikari Kiran , Guerrero Felix D , Konganti Kranti , Benoit Joshua B
Published: February 2020

Sex chromosomes and sex determining genes can evolve fast, with the sex-linked chromosomes often differing between closely related species. Population genetics theory has been developed and tested to explain the rapid evolution of sex chromosomes and sex determination. However, we do not know why the sex chromosomes are divergent in some taxa and conserved in others. Addressing this question requires comparing closely related taxa with conserved and divergent sex chromosomes to identify biological features that could explain these differences. Cytological karyotypes suggest that muscid flies (e.g., house fly) and blow flies are such a taxonomic pair. The sex chromosomes appear to differ across muscid species, whereas they are conserved across blow flies. Despite the cytological evidence, we do not know the extent to which muscid sex chromosomes are independently derived along different evolutionary lineages. To address that question, we used genomic and transcriptomic sequence data to identify young sex chromosomes in two closely related muscid species, horn fly (Haematobia irritans) and stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans). We provide evidence that the nascent sex chromosomes of horn fly and stable fly were derived independently from each other and from the young sex chromosomes of the closely related house fly (Musca domestica). We present three different scenarios that could have given rise to the sex chromosomes of horn fly and stable fly, and we describe how the scenarios could be distinguished. Distinguishing between these scenarios in future work could identify features of muscid genomes that promote sex chromosome divergence.
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Breakthrough Infections: 2001–2016
Authors: Adebanjo Tolulope A. , Pondo Tracy , Yankey David , Hill Holly A. , Gierke Ryan , Apostol Mirasol , Barnes Meghan , Petit Susan , Farley Monica , Harrison Lee H. , Holtzman Corinne , Baumbach Joan , Bennett Nancy , McGuire Suzanne , Thomas Ann , Schaffner William , Beall Bernard , Whitney Cynthia G. , Pilishvili Tamara
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND:

Most countries use 3-dose pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) schedules; a 4-dose (3 primary and 1 booster) schedule is licensed for US infants. We evaluated the invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) breakthrough infection incidence in children receiving 2 vs 3 primary PCV doses with and without booster doses (2 + 1 vs 3 + 1; 2 + 0 vs 3 + 0).

METHODS:

We used 2001–2016 Active Bacterial Core surveillance data to identify breakthrough infections (vaccine-type IPD in children receiving ≥1 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine [PCV7] or 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine [PCV13] dose) among children aged <5 years. We estimated schedule-specific IPD incidence rates (IRs) per 100 000 person-years and compared incidence by schedule (2 + 1 vs 3 + 1; 2 + 0 vs 3 + 0) using rate differences (RDs) and incidence rate ratios.

RESULTS:

We identified 71 PCV7 and 49 PCV13 breakthrough infections among children receiving a schedule of interest. PCV13 breakthrough infection rates were higher in children aged <1 year receiving the 2 + 0 (IR: 7.8) vs 3 + 0 (IR: 0.6) schedule (incidence rate ratio: 12.9; 95% confidence interval: 4.1–40.4); PCV7 results were similar. Differences in PCV13 breakthrough infection rates by schedule in children aged <1 year were larger in 2010–2011 (2 + 0 IR: 18.6; 3 + 0 IR: 1.4; RD: 16.6) vs 2012–2016 (2 + 0 IR: 3.6; 3 + 0 IR: 0.2; RD: 3.4). No differences between schedules were detected in children aged ≥1 year for PCV13 breakthrough infections.

CONCLUSIONS:

Fewer PCV breakthrough infections occurred in the first year of life with 3 primary doses. Differences in breakthrough infection rates by schedule decreased as vaccine serotypes decreased in circulation.