bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Significances of interphase conductivity and tunneling resistance on the conductivity of carbon nanotubes nanocomposites
Authors: Zare Yasser , Rhee Kyong Y.
Published: October 2019

This article expresses a simple model for prediction of conductivity in polymer carbon nanotubes (CNT) nanocomposites (PCNT). This model suggests the roles of CNT concentration, CNT dimensions, CNT conductivity, the percentage of networked CNT, interphase thickness and tunneling properties in the conductivity of PCNT. The suggested model is applied to predict the conductivity in several samples. In addition, the significances of all parameters attributed to CNT, interphase and tunneling regions on the predicted conductivity are justified to confirm the suggested model. The calculations of conductivity properly agree with the experimental results demonstrating the capability of suggested model for prediction of conductivity. Thick interphase increases the conductivity of nanocomposites, because it enlarges the conductive networks. In addition, high tunneling resistivity due to polymer layer, large tunneling distance between adjacent CNT and small tunneling diameter deteriorate the conductivity, because they enhance the tunneling resistance limiting the charge transferring via tunneling regions. The suggested model can replace the available models to predict the conductivity in future researches.
Anionic ring‐opening polymerization of a five‐membered cyclic urethane derived from d‐glucosamine
Authors: Haba Osamu , Akashika Yosuke
Published: October 2019

The anionic ring‐opening polymerization of a five‐membered cyclic urethane, 2‐amino‐4,6‐O‐benzylidene‐2‐N,3‐O‐carbonyl‐2‐deoxy‐α,d‐glucopyranoside (MBUG), which was prepared from naturally abundant d‐glucosamine, was examined. Potassium tert‐butoxide (t‐BuOK) was the most effective initiator among the evaluated bases and produced polyurethane with the Mn of 7800 without any elimination of CO2. The equimolar reaction of MBUG and t‐BuOK in the presence of CH3I produced N‐methylated MBUG and suggested that the initiation reaction involves proton abstraction from the NH group. This N‐methylated compound did not undergo the polymerization. Therefore, the mechanism of propagation in the ROP of MBUG should involve the proton abstraction and nucleophilic substitution of the resulting amide anion. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2491–2497
Raising awareness about food security using a massive open online course
Authors: Stevens Carly J. , Whittle Rebecca , Davies William J. , Taylor Jane E.
Published: October 2019

Societal Impact Statement

Addressing global food security is one of the greatest challenges facing humankind, but finding ways to discuss this complex topic can be difficult. Solutions to this challenge will require interaction between a range of actors, including academics from varying disciplines, policy makers, NGOs, industry, farmers, and members of society. To help address the need for increased societal understanding of food security, we organized an 8‐week massive open online course (MOOC) on the e‐learning platform FutureLearn. We show that online courses have the potential to broaden and facilitate conversations to help develop new forms of understanding of food security.
A microplastic used as infill material in artificial sport turfs reduces plant growth
Authors: van Kleunen Mark , Brumer Anna , Gutbrod Lisa , Zhang Zhijie
Published: October 2019

Societal Impact Statement

Plastic pollution is of increasing societal concern, particularly with regard to aquatic environments, where it has received widespread news media attention. However, plastic and plastic byproducts also pollute terrestrial ecosystems, and the potential impacts on organisms are currently poorly understood. Here, we show that a microplastic type used in artificial sport turfs may have negative effects on plant growth. Given the scale of plastic pollution, urgent research is needed to determine the impact of microplastics on terrestrial organisms and their communities, as well as an exploration of alternative, biodegradable materials and measures to reduce the spread of microplastics in nature.

Summary

The Anthropocene is, among other factors, characterized by the accumulation of plastic in the environment. While studies on the consequences of plastic pollution for animals, particularly in aquatic environments, have increased in recent years, much less is known about potential effects of plastic pollution on plants in terrestrial environments.

Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is a microplastic used in artificial sport turfs. Here, we tested in two separate experiments the effects of different concentrations of EPDM on the performance of Plantago lanceolata and on competition between seven grassland‐plant species.

At very low concentrations of the EPDM granules, growth of P. lanceolata was slightly improved, but at concentrations of 5% and higher there were strong negative effects on survival and growth. These negative effects were found under low and high nutrient conditions, and for all tested species. The EPDM granules also negatively affected the root weight ratio, which indicates that the root system was more strongly affected than the shoot. Due to the strong negative effects on plant growth, the granules also reduced the competitive interactions between plants.

Our study shows that it is not only animals in aquatic environments that may be affected by plastic pollution, and that this may also be the case for wild plants in terrestrial ecosystems.
Kallikrein markers performance in pretreatment blood to predict early prostate cancer recurrence and metastasis after radical prostatectomy among very high‐risk men
Authors: Assel Melissa J. , Ulmert Hans David , Karnes R. Jeffery , Boorjian Stephen A. , Hillman David W. , Vickers Andrew J. , Klee George G. , Lilja Hans
Published: October 2019

Background

To assess whether a prespecified statistical model based on the four kallikrein markers measured in blood—total, free, and intact prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), together with human kallikrein‐related peptidase 2 (hK2)—or any individual marker measured in pretreatment serum were associated with biochemical recurrence‐free (BCR) or metastasis‐free survival after radical prostatectomy (RP) in a subgroup of men with very high‐risk disease.

Methods

We identified 106 men treated at Mayo Clinic from 2004 to 2008 with pathological Gleason grade group 4 to 5 or seminal vesicle invasion at RP. Univariable and multivariable Cox models were used to test the association between standard predictors (Kattan nomogram and GPSM [Gleason, PSA, seminal vesicle and margin status] score), kallikrein panel, and individual kallikrein markers with the outcomes.

Results

BCR and metastasis occurred in 67 and 30 patients, respectively. The median follow‐up for patients who did not develop a BCR was 10.3 years (interquartile range = 8.2‐11.8). In this high‐risk group, neither Kattan risk, GPSM score, or the kallikrein panel model was associated with either outcome. However, after adjusting for Kattan risk and GPSM score, separately, preoperative intact PSA was associated with both outcomes while hK2 was associated with metastasis‐free survival.

Conclusions

Conventional risk prediction tools were poor discriminators for risk of adverse outcomes after RP (Kattan risk and GPSM risk) in patients with very high‐risk disease. Further studies are needed to define the role of individual kallikrein marker forms in the blood to predict adverse prostate cancer outcomes after RP in this high‐risk setting.
Designed Patterning of Mesoporous Metal Films Based on Electrochemical Micelle Assembly Combined with Lithographical Techniques
Authors: Lim Hyunsoo , Kim Jeonghun , Kani Kenya , Masud Mostafa Kamal , Park Hyeongyu , Kim Minjun , Alsheri Saad M. , Ahamad Tansir , Alhokbany Norah , Na Jongbeom , Malgras Victor , Bando Yoshio , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: October 2019

Mesoporous noble metals and their patterning techniques for obtaining unique patterned structures are highly attractive for electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and optoelectronics device applications owing to their expedient properties such as high level of exposed active locations, cascade electrocatalytic sites, and large surface area. However, patterning techniques for mesoporous substrates are still limited to metal oxide and silica films, although there is growing demand for developing techniques related to patterning mesoporous metals. In this study, the first demonstration of mesoporous metal films on patterned gold (Au) substrates, prefabricated using photolithographic techniques, is reported. First, different growth rates of mesoporous Au metal films on patterned Au substrates are demonstrated by varying deposition times and voltages. In addition, mesoporous Au films are also fabricated on various patterns of Au substrates including stripe and mesh lines. An alternative fabrication method using a photoresist insulating mask also yields growth of mesoporous Au within the patterning. Moreover, patterned mesoporous films of palladium (Pd) and palladium–copper alloy (PdCu) are demonstrated on the same types of substrates to show versatility of this method. Patterned mesoporous Au films (PMGFs) show higher electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) and higher sensitivity toward glucose oxidation than nonpatterned mesoporous Au films (NMGF).
Self‐Regulated Smectic Emulsion with Switchable Lasing Application
Authors: Kim Dae Seok , Lee Wonsuk , Lopez‐Leon Teresa , Yoon Dong Ki
Published: October 2019

A structurally reversible smectic liquid crystal (LC) emulsion made of semifluorinated rod‐type molecules in silicon oil, which is controlled by simple heating and cooling, is presented. Without adding any kind of additives, such as surfactants, polymers or emulsifiers, and without using any special tools, such as microfluidics or gas bubbling, the LC molecules spontaneously form monodisperse spherical and myelin‐like structures upon cooling from the isotropic temperature. The LC emulsion can easily trap guest materials, providing a platform for repeatable and reliable switchable emulsification. For example, this interesting system enables the realization of an on–off lasing system by confining fluorescent dyes in the LC droplets.
Three lonely Argentines: Toward a new generic delimitation in Polygalaceae
Authors: Mota Michelle , Abbott J. Richard , Salas Roberto M. , Neubig Kurt M. , Pastore José Floriano B.
Published: October 2019

Three enigmatic lineages of the Polygalaceae endemic to the semi‐arid region of Argentina were sampled within the framework of a molecular phylogenetic study of its genera. The regions nrITS, matK, the trnL intron, the trnL‐trnF intergenic spacer, and rbcL were analyzed, and the history of some morphological characters was reconstructed in the family. Results of our phylogenetic analyses and morphological study support the recognition of three monotypic genera historically treated in the genera Bredemeyera and Polygala. A new genus, Rhamphopetalum, and a new combination, R. microphyllum, are proposed together with resurrection of Hualania and Monrosia. The emergence of two species (Bredemeyera colletioides, B. microphylla) as new genera resolves the polyphyletic status of Bredemeyera. Relationships and morphological characters among the genera of Polygalaceae are discussed. Provided here are photographic plates of Hualania colletioides, Monrosia pterolopha, and Rhamphopetalum microphyllum habits, with details of floral structures, a distribution map, typifications, and taxonomic keys for the tribes of Polygalaceae and genera within the tribe Polygaleae.
Dimensions of expatriates adjustment in distant subsidiaries: A field study of a sub‐Saharan African institutional distance
Authors: Abugre James B. , Williams Karen , Debrah Yaw A.
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study is to investigate the determinants of expatriates’ adjustments in distant and complex multinational subsidiaries. Using the institutional theory as a basis for expatriates’ assignments in complex subsidiaries, the work employed a sequential mixed methodology of data collection. An in‐depth face‐to‐face interview with 21 senior expatriate executives and a quantitative survey of 204 expatriates working in various multinational subsidiaries in Ghana served as data for the work. Consequently, a structural equation modeling (SEM) and a content analysis were the basis of the data analysis. Findings showed host country culture plays a significant role in determining expatriate adjustment in distant subsidiaries. Findings also showed expatriates’ competence in cross‐cultural communication significantly determines expatriates’ adjustment in distant subsidiaries. The work recommends an intensive training of expatriates in cross‐cultural communication and host cultural values and behaviors for international assignees.
Tectonics of the Neuchâtel Jura Mountains: insights from mapping and forward modelling
Authors: Rime Valentin , Sommaruga Anna , Schori Marc , Mosar Jon
Published: October 2019

This study focuses on a geological section in the Jura Mountains across the villages of Travers, La Brévine in Switzerland, and Morteau in France. Field mapping was conducted to complement and densify existing data. A kinematically and geometrically consistent forward model has been developed to understand and interpret the observed surface structures. The proposed solution features a low-angle thrust fault with a multiple ramp-flat or staircase trajectory on which several hinterland-verging thrusts nucleate. The main décollement level is located in the Triassic evaporites of the Keuper and Muschelkalk Groups. Our model implies secondary detachments in the Opalinus Clay and the Cretaceous layers leading to repetitions in the Mesozoic cover rocks over large distances. This in turn explains the high topographic position of exposed sediments. The proposed solution is an alternative to models showing overthickening of Triassic evaporites associated with a single detachment level. Along the investigated profile, the Jura Mountains accommodate a shortening of 8.5 km. The kinematic forward model suggests an oscillating sequence of thrusting, rather than a simple, in sequence, forward propagation succession of thrusts.
On the cell-dependent vibrations and wave propagation in uniperiodic cylindrical shells
Authors: Tomczyk Barbara , Gołąbczak Marcin , Litawska Anna , Gołąbczak Andrzej
Published: October 2019

The objects of consideration are thin linearly elastic Kirchhoff–Love-type circular cylindrical shells having a periodically micro-heterogeneous structure in circumferential direction (uniperiodic shells). The aim of this contribution is to study certain problems of micro-vibrations and of wave propagation related to micro-fluctuations of displacement field caused by a periodic structure of the shells. These micro-dynamic problems will be analysed in the framework of a certain mathematical averaged model derived by means of the combined modelling procedure. The combined modelling includes both the asymptotic and the tolerance non-asymptotic modelling techniques, which are conjugated with themselves under special conditions. Contrary to the starting exact shell equations with highly oscillating, non-continuous and periodic coefficients, governing equations of the combined model have constant coefficients depending also on a cell size. Hence, this model takes into account the effect of a microstructure size on the dynamic behaviour of the shells (the length-scale effect). It will be shown that the micro-periodic heterogeneity of the shells leads to cell-depending micro-vibrations and to exponential waves as well as to dispersion effects, which cannot be analysed in the framework of the asymptotic models commonly used for investigations of vibrations and wave propagation in the periodic structures.
The Ambivalent Appraisal of Job Demands and the Moderating Role of Job Control and Social Support for Burnout and Job Satisfaction
Authors: Gerich Joachim , Weber Christoph
Published: October 2019

Within an extended challenge–hindrance framework, it is assumed that job demands are subjectively appraised both as challenges (that is, as working conditions that are associated with potential personal gains) and hindrances (as working conditions associated with constrains) at the same time. In accordance with transactional stress theory, the association between demand intensity and work-related attitudes (work satisfaction) and psychological strain (burnout) is expected to be mediated by individual appraisal. Moreover, because curvilinear relationships between demand and challenge and hindrance appraisals are assumed, and appraisal is expected to be moderated by job control and social support, we tested complex nonlinear moderated mediation models for four types of job demands (task difficulty, time pressure, interruptions, and responsibility). Based on cross-sectional data of a heterogeneous sample of employees, we confirmed simultaneous challenge and hindrance appraisals. Challenge components are positively associated and hindrance components are negatively associated with favorable outcomes (higher work satisfaction and lower burnout). Challenge appraisals are found to be more relevant for work satisfaction, while hindrance appraisals are more relevant for burnout. The relationship between demand intensity and challenge appraisal is confirmed as curvilinear, whereas hindrance appraisals are approximately linearly related to demand intensity. The relationship between demand intensity and outcome variables is partly mediated by challenge and hindrance appraisal, and significant interaction effects suggest that the appraisal process is moderated by job control and social support.
Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae causes stem canker of Chinese hackberry in China
Authors: Liang Lu , Li Huan , Zhou Lifeng , Chen Fengmao
Published: October 2019

Chinese hackberry (Celtis sinensis Pers.) is an adaptable species widely growing in southern China. The symptoms of canker on stems of seedlings were discovered mid-July 2017 in Shuyang, Jiangsu Province. The diseased portions of the stems were dark brown due to discoloured xylem. Some seedlings showed symptoms of wilting, leaf fall, twig dieback, and tissue discolouration. The outbreak period was concentrated in July and August, suggesting that the disease spread during summer months. Possible fungal causal agents were isolated from naturally infected canker tissue and discoloured xylem. The isolate from xylem tissue with a high frequency (> 50%) was named Ls7 type. Pathogenicity tests were carried out on 4-year-old seedlings. The symptoms of canker began to develop 20 days after inoculation with Ls7 isolate and by day 35, there were dark, enlarged longitudinal lesions. A phylogenetic tree of the isolate was developed using the internal transcribed spacer, elongation factor-1α (tef1-α), β-tubulin gene (TUB) and RNA polymerase II subunit primer genes (RPB2). Based on morphological features and phylogenetic information, the pathogen was identified as Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae. This is the first report of L. pseudotheobromae causing canker on Chinese hackberry stems in China.
The effect of Rhizophagus irregularis on salt stress tolerance of Elaeagnus angustifolia roots
Authors: He Wenyuan , Fan Xiaoxu , Zhou Zixin , Zhang Huanhuan , Gao Xiang , Song Fuqiang , Geng Gui
Published: October 2019

We assessed the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) Rhizophagus irregularis inoculation on salt stress tolerance in roots of the drought-tolerant plant Elaeagnus angustifolia. We studied a plant growth index, spore density and hyphal length density of AMF, the Na+ contents and ultrastructure of root cells, as well as rhizosphere soil enzyme activities of mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal E. angustifolia seedlings under different salt stress. Under salt stress, growth of E. angustifolia with mycorrhizal inoculation was higher than that of non-inoculated treatments. The spore density and hyphal length density decreased significantly under salt stress in rhizosphere soil of mycorrhizal E. angustifolia seedlings (p < 0.05). The root cells of E. angustifolia seedlings inoculated with R. irregularis at 300 mmol L−1 salt had more organelles, greater integrity, and lower root Na+ contents than those of non-inoculated seedlings. In addition, the results showed notably higher activities of catalase, phosphatase, urease and saccharase in rhizosphere soil of the mycorrhizal seedlings in response to salinity compared to those of the non-mycorrhizal seedlings. Therefore, AMF inoculation could enhance salt stress tolerance in roots of E. angustifolia.
Effects of dietary lipid level on growth, fatty acid profiles, antioxidant capacity and expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism in juvenile swimming crab, Portunus trituberculatus
Authors: Sun Peng , Jin Min , Jiao Lefei , Monroig Óscar , Navarro Juan Carlos , Tocher Douglas R. , Betancor Mónica B. , Wang Xuexi , Yuan Ye , Zhou Qicun
Published: October 2019

The regulation of lipogenesis and lipolysis mechanisms related to consumption of lipid has not been studied in swimming crab. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the effects of dietary lipid levels on growth, enzymes activities and expression of genes of lipid metabolism in hepatopancreas of juvenile swimming crab. Three isonitrogenous diets were formulated to contain crude lipid levels at 5·8, 9·9 and 15·1 %. Crabs fed the diet containing 15·1 % lipid had significantly lower growth performance and feed utilisation than those fed the 5·8 and 9·9 % lipid diets. Crabs fed 5·8 % lipid had lower malondialdehyde concentrations in the haemolymph and hepatopancreas than those fed the other diets. Highest glutathione peroxidase in haemolymph and superoxide dismutase in hepatopancreas were observed in crabs fed 5·8 % lipid. The lowest fatty acid synthase and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities in hepatopancreas were observed in crabs fed 15·1 % lipid, whereas crabs fed 5·8 % lipid had lower carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 activity than those fed the other diets. Crabs fed 15·1 % lipid showed lower hepatopancreas expression of genes involved in long-chain-PUFA biosynthesis, lipoprotein clearance, fatty acid uptake, fatty acid oxidation, lipid anabolism and lipid catabolism than those fed the other diets, whereas expression of some genes of lipoprotein assembly and fatty acid oxidation was up-regulated compared with crabs fed 5·8 % lipid. Overall, high dietary lipid level can inhibit growth, reduce antioxidant enzyme activities and influence lipid metabolic pathways to regulate lipid deposition in crab.
Winter wheat yield and nitrous oxide emissions in response to cowpea-based green manure and nitrogen fertilization
Authors: Kandel Tanka P. , Gowda Prasanna H. , Northup Brian K. , Rocateli Alexandre C.
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of cowpea green manure and inorganic nitrogen (N) fertilizers on yields of winter wheat and soil emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O). The comparisons included cowpea grown solely as green manure where all biomass was terminated at maturity by tillage, summer fallow treatments with 90 kg N ha−1 as urea (90-N), and no fertilization (control) at planting of winter wheat. Fluxes of N2O were measured by closed chamber methods after soil incorporation of cowpea in autumn (October–November) and harvesting of winter wheat in summer (June–August). Growth and yields of winter wheat and N concentrations in grain and straw were also measured. Cowpea produced 9.5 Mg ha−1 shoot biomass with 253 kg N ha−1 at termination. Although soil moisture was favorable for denitrification after soil incorporation of cowpea biomass, low concentrations of soil mineral N restricted emissions of N2O from cowpea treatment. However, increased concentrations of soil mineral N and large rainfall-induced emissions were recorded from the cowpea treatment during summer. Growth of winter wheat, yield, and grain N concentrations were lowest in response to cowpea treatment and highest in 90-N treatment. In conclusion, late terminated cowpea may reduce yield of winter wheat and increase emissions of N2O outside of wheat growing seasons due to poor synchronization of N mineralization from cowpea biomass with N-demand of winter wheat.
Understanding the neighbourhood environment and the health and wellbeing of older Chinese immigrants: a systematic literature review
Authors: Gao Siyao , Dupre Karine , Bosman Caryl
Published: October 2019

Neighbourhood environment has a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of older people. In recent years, the increase in older Chinese immigrants globally has attracted a growing amount of research which has investigated the health and wellbeing of these elderly residents. The aim of this study is to provide a systematic literature review of empirical findings on the health and wellbeing of older Chinese immigrants and the ways in which the neighbourhood environment impacts them. A systematic search was conducted using online databases where 52 articles met specific criteria and were subsequently reviewed critically. An inductive approach was undertaken to analyse the data extracted from the selected articles. The review was categorised according to the following themes: neighbourhood social environment, neighbourhood physical environment and place attachment. The findings show that the majority of research has investigated the health status of older immigrants, and in particular, the impacts related to the social environments in which they live. The literature review indicated that there is scope for future studies to investigate the impact of the physical neighbourhood environment on this group of people.
Production perspectives of heavy metal record producers
Authors: Thomas Niall , King Andrew
Published: October 2019

The study of the recorded artefact from a musicological perspective continues to unfold through contemporary research. Whilst an understanding of the scientific elements of recorded sound is well documented, the exploration of the production and the artistic nature of this endeavour is still developing. This article explores phenomenological aspects of producing heavy metal music from the perspective of seven renowned producers working within the genre. Through a series of interviews and subsequent in-depth analysis, particular sonic qualities are identified as key within the production of this work: impact; energy; precision; and extremity. A conceptual framework is then put forward for understanding the production methodology of recorded heavy metal music, and how developing technology has influenced the production of the genre.
Supplementation of culture medium with knockout serum replacement improves the survival of bovine secondary follicles when compared with other protein sources duringin vitroculture
Authors: Gomes D.S. , Aragão L.B. , Lima Neto M.F. , Barroso P.A.A. , Paulino L.R.F.M. , Silva B.R. , Souza A.L.P. , Vasconcelos G.L. , Silva A.W.B. , Silva J.R.V.
Published: October 2019

The present study evaluated the effect of knockout serum replacement (KSR), fetal bovine serum (FBS) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) on the viability and growth of bovine secondary follicles culturedin vitrofor 12 days. To this end, secondary follicles were isolated (185–202 μm) and culturedin vitroin TCM-199+medium supplemented with KSR (5% and 10%), FBS (5% and 10%) or BSA (3 mg/ml) at 38.5°C with 5% CO2in air. Follicular diameters were evaluated on days 0, 4, 8 and 12. After 12 days of culture, follicular survival analysis was performing by using calcein-AM and ethidium homodimer. Before and after culture, follicles were fixed in paraformaldehyde for histological evaluation. Follicular diameter at different days of culture were compared using the Kruskal–Wallis test, while the percentages of viable follicles were analyzed by chi-squared test (P< 0.05). Results showed that follicles cultured in the presence of KSR at both concentrations presented higher follicular survival rates than those cultured in control medium alone or supplemented with FBS or BSA. Conversely, the presence of KSR, BSA or FBS did not increase follicular diameter after 12 days of culture. Histology analysis showed that, among the tested treatments, follicles cultured in the presence of KSR had preserved rounded oocytes, juxtaposed granulosa cells and intact basal membrane. In conclusion, supplementation of culture medium with KSR increases the follicular survival of bovine secondary follicles culturedin vitro.
Conquest, mass violence and ethnic stereotyping: investigating Caesar’s actions in the Germanic frontier zone
Authors: Roymans Nico
Published: October 2019

The Late Republican to Early Imperial period was one of spectacular territorial expansion into the surrounding ‘tribal periphery’ of the Roman West. There, the indigenous societies were confronted with state-organised warfare on an unprecedented scale and with a range of new military technologies and strategies. The direct societal impact of conquest on the subjected groups varied greatly. Conquest could strengthen certain polities and stimulate processes of state formation, but it could have disastrous effects on other groups. Here I will investigate Roman warfare in the tribal zone, with a special focus on two topics: the use of extreme mass violence against resistant groups, and the relationship between disproportional use of violence and negative ethnic stereotyping of the ‘tribal other’. I hope to show that archaeology can contribute to a wider debate on these topics among historians and anthropologists1 by assessing the short-term demographic impact of conquest.
The Ploutonion of Hierapolis in the 5th-7th c. A.D.
Authors: D’Andria Francesco
Published: October 2019

The investigations of the Ploutonion carried out in the years 2013-17 by the Italian Archaeological Mission were the object of an article in JRA 31 (2018)1 in which I presented the complex transformations affecting the sanctuary of Hades from the Archaic through the Late Roman periods. The excavations also brought to light Byzantine structures that had been built over the pagan sanctuary, gradually erasing all trace of it.
Anaerobic digestion in Uganda: risks and opportunities for integration of waste management and agricultural systems
Authors: McCord A. I. , Stefanos S. A. , Tumwesige V. , Lsoto D. , Kawala M. , Mutebi J. , Nansubuga I. , Larson R. A.
Published: October 2019

Much of the global population lacks access to basic public sanitation, energy and fertilizers. Micro-scale anaerobic digestion presents an opportunity for low-cost decentralized waste management that creates valuable co-products of renewable energy and organic fertilizer. However, field-based assessments of system performance and clearly articulated guidelines for digestate management and field application are needed. Feedstocks and effluent from seven digesters in Kampala, Uganda were monitored for standard wastewater and fertilizer metrics including indicator organisms (Escherichia coliand fecal coliform), chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD5), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), total phosphorous (TP), heavy metals, pH, temperature and total solids (TS) over 2 yr. Results reveal that digester effluent does not meet standards for wastewater discharge or international safety standards for field application. Data indicate that digestate could be a suitable source of fertilizer (TKN = 1467 mg L−1, TP = 214 mg L−1) but poses issues for water quality if not managed properly (TS = 26,091 mg L−1, COD = 3471 mg L−1and BOD5= 246 mg L−1). While effluent from the digester contained pathogen indicator organisms (fecal coliform = 8.13 × 105CFU/100 ml,E. coli= 3.27 × 105CFU/100 ml), they were lower than the influent concentrations, and lower than reported concentrations in drainage canals. All digestate samples contained little to no heavy metals suggesting effective source separation. Data suggest that micro-scale biogas systems have potential to improve waste handling and meet standards associated with fertilizer application with proper post-digestion treatment.
Motivation to Learn
Authors: Halamish Vered , Madmon Inbal , Moed Anat
Published: October 2019

Abstract. Learners are more likely to remember what they study if they are motivated to do so. Such motivation can be externally driven by prospective rewards, but also intrinsically driven by curiosity. The present research focused on the role of curiosity during intentional learning. We examined the potential mnemonic benefit of curiosity, whether this benefit is undermined when learners are externally motivated to learn by rewards, and whether it can be attributed to increased study time for information they are more curious about. In two experiments, participants were presented with trivia questions, rated their level of curiosity about each question, and then studied the answers, either with or without a prospect of reward for correct recall on a subsequent test. Study time was either fixed (Experiment 1) or self-paced (Experiment 2). Performance on a memory test 1 week later suggested that curiosity enhanced long-term retention, and that rewards did not undermine the benefit of curiosity. When learning was self-paced, study time increased with curiosity but did not account for the effect of curiosity on memory. The results highlight the important role curiosity plays in learning and suggest that curiosity and rewards can be used together effectively to promote students’ learning.
Sargassum sp. Act as a Large Regional Source of Marine Dissolved Organic Carbon and Polyphenols
Authors: Powers Leanne C. , Hertkorn Norbert , McDonald Natasha , Schmitt‐Kopplin Philippe , Del Vecchio Rossana , Blough Neil V. , Gonsior Michael
Published: October 2019

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) plays critical roles in marine carbon cycling, but its sources and sinks remain uncertain. In this study, we monitored DOC exudation rates of Sargassum natans under visible light (λ > 390 nm) and solar radiation. DOC release rates ranged from 7 to 10 μg C g−1biomass hr−1 (wet weight) under visible light, but increased to 23 to 41 μg C g−1biomass hr−1 when exposed to natural sunlight. Results indicate that DOC released by Sargassum could amount to 0.3 to 1.2 Tg C/year, potentially contributing significantly to the marine DOC pool in the Gulf of Mexico and Western North Atlantic. We employed the Folin‐Ciocalteu phenolic content method, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and ultrahigh resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT‐ICR MS) to characterize the diverse pool of organic compounds exuded from Sargassum. Results from these complementary methods showed that Sargassum release large quantities of phlorotannins, a class of polyphenols that have very similar properties to terrestrial DOC. These phlorotannins and their oxygenated phenolic derivatives exhibit a high hydrogen deficiency and functionalization (i.e., 4 to 6 oxygen atoms per aromatic ring), representing 5 to 18% of the released DOC isolated by solid phase extraction. Thus, Sargassum is the largest biological source of open ocean polyphenols recorded to date. The amount of polyphenolic DOC released by Sargassum challenges previous beliefs that all polyphenols found within the oceans are remnants of terrestrial organic matter, although the stability of phlorotannins and their derivatives needs to be further evaluated.
Joint Sensing of Bedload Flux and Water Depth by Seismic Data Inversion
Authors: Dietze M. , Lagarde S. , Halfi E. , Laronne J. B. , Turowski J. M.
Published: October 2019

Rivers are the fluvial conveyor belts routing sediment across the landscape. While there are proper techniques for continuous estimates of the flux of suspended solids, constraining bedload flux is much more challenging, typically involving extensive measurement infrastructure or labor‐intensive manual measurements. Seismometers are potentially valuable alternatives to in‐stream devices, delivering continuous data with high temporal resolution on the average behavior of a reach. Two models exist to predict the seismic spectra generated by river turbulence and bedload flux. However, these models require estimating a large number of parameters and the spectra usually overlap significantly, which hinders straightforward inversion. We provide three functions contained in the R package “eseis” that allow generic modeling of hydraulic and bedload transport dynamics from seismic data using these models. The underlying Monte Carlo approach creates lookup tables of potential spectra, which are compared against the empirical spectra to identify the best fitting solutions. The method is validated against synthetic data sets and independently measured metrics from the Nahal Eshtemoa, Israel, a flash flood‐dominated ephemeral gravel bed river. Our approach reproduces the synthetic time series with average absolute deviations of 0.01–0.04 m (water depth, ranging between 0 and 1 m) and 0.00–0.04 kg/sm (bedload flux, ranging between 0 and 4 kg/sm). The example flash flood water depths and bedload fluxes are reproduced with respective average deviations of 0.10 m and 0.02 kg/sm. Our approach thus provides generic, testable, and reproducible routines for a quantitative description of key metrics, hard to collect by other techniques in a continuous and representative manner.
6′-Sialylgalactose inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2-mediated angiogenesis
Authors: Chung Tae-Wook , Kim Eun-Yeong , Choi Hee-Jung , Han Chang Woo , Jang Se Bok , Kim Keuk-Jun , Jin Ling , Koh Young Jun , Ha Ki-Tae
Published: October 2019

Angiogenesis should be precisely regulated because disordered neovascularization is involved in the aggravation of multiple diseases. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A/VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) axis is crucial for controlling angiogenic responses in vascular endothelial cells (ECs). Therefore, inactivating VEGFR-2 signaling may effectively suppress aberrant angiogenesis and alleviate related symptoms. In this study, we performed virtual screening, identified the synthetic disaccharide 6′-sialylgalactose (6SG) as a potent VEGFR-2-binding compound and verified its high binding affinity by Biacore assay. 6SG effectively suppressed VEGF-A-induced VEGFR-2 phosphorylation and subsequent in vitro angiogenesis in HUVECs without inducing cytotoxicity. 6SG also inhibited VEGF-A-induced extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK)/Akt activation and actin stress fiber formation in HUVECs. We demonstrated that 6SG inhibited retinal angiogenesis in a mouse model of retinopathy of prematurity and tumor angiogenesis in a xenograft mouse model. Our results suggest a potential therapeutic benefit of 6SG in inhibiting angiogenesis in proangiogenic diseases, such as retinopathy and cancer.
Characterization of transgenic mouse models targeting neuromodulatory systems reveals organizational principles of the dorsal raphe
Authors: Cardozo Pinto Daniel F. , Yang Hongbin , Pollak Dorocic Iskra , de Jong Johannes W. , Han Vivian J. , Peck James R. , Zhu Yichen , Liu Christine , Beier Kevin T. , Smidt Marten P. , Lammel Stephan
Published: October 2019

The dorsal raphe (DR) is a heterogeneous nucleus containing dopamine (DA), serotonin (5HT), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate neurons. Consequently, investigations of DR circuitry require Cre-driver lines that restrict transgene expression to precisely defined cell populations. Here, we present a systematic evaluation of mouse lines targeting neuromodulatory cells in the DR. We find substantial differences in specificity between lines targeting DA neurons, and in penetrance between lines targeting 5HT neurons. Using these tools to map DR circuits, we show that populations of neurochemically distinct DR neurons are arranged in a stereotyped topographical pattern, send divergent projections to amygdala subnuclei, and differ in their presynaptic inputs. Importantly, targeting DR DA neurons using different mouse lines yielded both structural and functional differences in the neural circuits accessed. These results provide a refined model of DR organization and support a comparative, case-by-case evaluation of the suitability of transgenic tools for any experimental application.
Longshot enables accurate variant calling in diploid genomes from single-molecule long read sequencing
Authors: Edge Peter , Bansal Vikas
Published: October 2019

Whole-genome sequencing using sequencing technologies such as Illumina enables the accurate detection of small-scale variants but provides limited information about haplotypes and variants in repetitive regions of the human genome. Single-molecule sequencing (SMS) technologies such as Pacific Biosciences and Oxford Nanopore generate long reads that can potentially address the limitations of short-read sequencing. However, the high error rate of SMS reads makes it challenging to detect small-scale variants in diploid genomes. We introduce a variant calling method, Longshot, which leverages the haplotype information present in SMS reads to accurately detect and phase single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) in diploid genomes. We demonstrate that Longshot achieves very high accuracy for SNV detection using whole-genome Pacific Biosciences data, outperforms existing variant calling methods, and enables variant detection in duplicated regions of the genome that cannot be mapped using short reads.
Highly structured, partner-sex- and subject-sex-dependent cortical responses during social facial touch
Authors: Ebbesen Christian L. , Bobrov Evgeny , Rao Rajnish P. , Brecht Michael
Published: October 2019

Touch is a fundamental aspect of social, parental and sexual behavior. In contrast to our detailed knowledge about cortical processing of non-social touch, we still know little about how social touch impacts cortical circuits. We investigated neural activity across five frontal, motor and sensory cortical areas in rats engaging in naturalistic social facial touch. Information about social touch and the sex of the interaction partner (a biologically significant feature) is a major determinant of cortical activity. 25.3% of units were modulated during social touch and 8.3% of units displayed ‘sex-touch’ responses (responded differently, depending on the sex of the interaction partner). Single-unit responses were part of a structured, partner-sex- and, in some cases, subject-sex-dependent population response. Spiking neural network simulations indicate that a change in inhibitory drive might underlie these population dynamics. Our observations suggest that socio-sexual characteristics of touch (subject and partner sex) widely modulate cortical activity and need to be investigated with cellular resolution.
Rare mutations in the complement regulatory gene CSMD1 are associated with male and female infertility
Authors: Lee Arthur S. , Rusch Jannette , Lima Ana C. , Usmani Abul , Huang Ni , Lepamets Maarja , Vigh-Conrad Katinka A. , Worthington Ronald E. , Mägi Reedik , Wu Xiaobo , Aston Kenneth I. , Atkinson John P. , Carrell Douglas T. , Hess Rex A. , O’Bryan Moira K. , Conrad Donald F.
Published: October 2019

Infertility in men and women is a complex genetic trait with shared biological bases between the sexes. Here, we perform a series of rare variant analyses across 73,185 women and men to identify genes that contribute to primary gonadal dysfunction. We report CSMD1, a complement regulatory protein on chromosome 8p23, as a strong candidate locus in both sexes. We show that CSMD1 is enriched at the germ-cell/somatic-cell interface in both male and female gonads. Csmd1-knockout males show increased rates of infertility with significantly increased complement C3 protein deposition in the testes, accompanied by severe histological degeneration. Knockout females show significant reduction in ovarian quality and breeding success, as well as mammary branching impairment. Double knockout of Csmd1 and C3 causes non-additive reduction in breeding success, suggesting that CSMD1 and the complement pathway play an important role in the normal postnatal development of the gonads in both sexes.
Cytosolic ROS production by NADPH oxidase 2 regulates muscle glucose uptake during exercise
Authors: Henríquez-Olguin Carlos , Knudsen Jonas R. , Raun Steffen H. , Li Zhencheng , Dalbram Emilie , Treebak Jonas T. , Sylow Lykke , Holmdahl Rikard , Richter Erik A. , Jaimovich Enrique , Jensen Thomas E.
Published: October 2019

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) act as intracellular compartmentalized second messengers, mediating metabolic stress-adaptation. In skeletal muscle fibers, ROS have been suggested to stimulate glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4)-dependent glucose transport during artificially evoked contraction ex vivo, but whether myocellular ROS production is stimulated by in vivo exercise to control metabolism is unclear. Here, we combined exercise in humans and mice with fluorescent dyes, genetically-encoded biosensors, and NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) loss-of-function models to demonstrate that NOX2 is the main source of cytosolic ROS during moderate-intensity exercise in skeletal muscle. Furthermore, two NOX2 loss-of-function mouse models lacking either p47phox or Rac1 presented striking phenotypic similarities, including greatly reduced exercise-stimulated glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation. These findings indicate that NOX2 is a major myocellular ROS source, regulating glucose transport capacity during moderate-intensity exercise.
Solid matrix-assisted printing for three-dimensional structuring of a viscoelastic medium surface
Authors: Shin Sungchul , Kwak Hojung , Shin Donghyeok , Hyun Jinho
Published: October 2019

Gluconacetobacter xylinus (G. xylinus) metabolism is activated by oxygen, which makes the formation of an air-medium interface critical. Here we report solid matrix-assisted 3D printing (SMAP) of an incubation medium surface and the 3D fabrication of bacterial cellulose (BC) hydrogels by in situ biosynthesis of G. xylinus. A printing matrix of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) microparticles and a hydrogel ink containing an incubation medium, bacteria, and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) are used in the SMAP process. The hydrogel ink can be printed in the solid matrix with control over the topology and dimensional stability. Furthermore, bioactive bacteria produce BC hydrogels at the surface of the medium due to the permeability of oxygen through the PTFE microparticle layer. The flexibility of the design is verified by fabricating complex 3D structures that were not reported previously. The resulting tubular BC structures suggest future biomedical applications, such as artificial blood vessels and engineered vascular tissue scaffolding. The fabrication of a versatile free-form structure of BC has been challenged due to restricted oxygen supplies at the medium and the dimensional instability of hydrogel printing. SMAP is a solution to the problem of fabricating free-form biopolymer structures, providing both printability and design diversity.
Sufu- and Spop-mediated downregulation of Hedgehog signaling promotes beta cell differentiation through organ-specific niche signals
Authors: Yung Theodora , Poon Frankie , Liang Minggao , Coquenlorge Sabrina , McGaugh Emily C. , Hui Chi-chung , Wilson Michael D. , Nostro M. Cristina , Kim Tae-Hee
Published: October 2019

Human embryonic stem cell-derived beta cells offer a promising cell-based therapy for diabetes. However, efficient stem cell to beta cell differentiation has proven difficult, possibly due to the lack of cross-talk with the appropriate mesenchymal niche. To define organ-specific niche signals, we isolated pancreatic and gastrointestinal stromal cells, and analyzed their gene expression during development. Our genetic studies reveal the importance of tightly regulated Hedgehog signaling in the pancreatic mesenchyme: inactivation of mesenchymal signaling leads to annular pancreas, whereas stroma-specific activation of signaling via loss of Hedgehog regulators, Sufu and Spop, impairs pancreatic growth and beta cell genesis. Genetic rescue and transcriptome analyses show that these Sufu and Spop knockout defects occur through Gli2-mediated activation of gastrointestinal stromal signals such as Wnt ligands. Importantly, inhibition of Wnt signaling in organoid and human stem cell cultures significantly promotes insulin-producing cell generation, altogether revealing the requirement for organ-specific regulation of stromal niche signals.