bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Long-term assessment of ecosystem services at ecological restoration sites using Landsat time series
Authors: del Río-Mena Trinidad , Willemen Louise , Vrieling Anton , Snoeys Andy , Nelson Andy 
Published: November 2020

AbstractReversing ecological degradation through restoration activities is a key societal challenge of the upcoming decade. However, lack of evidence on the effectiveness of restoration interventions leads to inconsistent, delayed, or poorly informed statements of success, hindering the wise allocation of resources, representing a missed opportunity to learn from previous experiences. This study contributes to a better understanding of spatial and temporal dynamics of ecosystem services at ecological restoration sites. We developed a method using Landsat satellite images combined with a Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) design, and applied this to an arid rural landscape, the Baviaanskloof in South Africa. Since 1990, various restoration projects have been implemented to halt and reverse degradation. We applied the BACI approach at pixel-level comparing the conditions of each intervened pixel (impact) with 20 similar control pixels. By evaluating the conditions before and after the intervention, we assessed the effectiveness of long-term restoration interventions distinguishing their impact from environmental temporal changes. The BACI approach was implemented with Landsat images that cover a 30-year period at a spatial resolution of 30 m. We evaluated the impact of three interventions (revegetation, livestock exclusion, and the combination of both) on three ecosystem services; forage provision, erosion prevention, and presence of iconic vegetation. We also evaluated whether terrain characteristics could partially explain the variation in impact of interventions. The resulting maps showed spatial patterns of positive and negative effects of interventions on ecosystem services. Intervention effectiveness differed between land cover vegetation clusters, terrain aspect, and soil parent material. Our method allows for spatially explicit quantification of the long-term restoration impact on ecosystem service supply, and for the detailed visualization of impact across an area. This pixel-level analysis is specifically suited for heterogeneous landscapes, where restoration impact not only varies between but also within restoration sites.
Evaluation of saliva as a source of accurate whole-genome and microbiome sequencing data
Authors: Herzig Anthony F. , Velo-Suárez Lourdes , Le Folgoc Gaёlle , Boland Anne , Blanché Hélène , Olaso Robert , Le Roux Liana , Delmas Christelle , Goldberg Marcel , Zins Marie , Lethimonnier Franck , Deleuze Jean-François , Génin Emmanuelle 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThis study sets out to establish the suitability of saliva-based whole-genome sequencing (WGS) through a comparison against blood-based WGS. To fully appraise the observed differences, we developed a novel technique of pseudo-replicates. We also investigated the potential of characterising individual salivary microbiomes from non-human DNA fragments found in saliva.We observed the majority of discordant genotype calls between blood and saliva calls fell into known regions of the human genome that are typically sequenced with low confidence; and could be identified by quality control measures. Pseudo-replication demonstrated that the levels of discordance between blood- and saliva-derived WGS data were entirely similar to what one would expect between technical replicates if an individual’s blood or saliva had been sequenced twice. Finally, we successfully sequenced salivary microbiomes in parallel to human genomes as demonstrated by a comparison against the Human Microbiome Project.Author SummaryDNA is usually collected from blood for the analysis of human genomes. In France, a new and very large genetic dataset will be created where selected participants will be sent saliva-collection kits in the post as this data collection method presents numerous logistical benefits. It has been previously shown that good quality genetic data can be created from saliva, though existing studies have often not considered the latest technologies or have only analysed a very small number of individuals. In this study, we have analysed genetic data derived from saliva for 39 individuals to give a firm conclusion that the proposed genome sequencing approach of the new French dataset will be capable of provided high quality data by making a comparison to pre-existing genetic data derived from blood for these 39 individuals. In order to do so, we developed a novel method (presented here) to establish the similarity between two sets of genetic data for the same individual that are generated from separate DNA samples. Finally, we have also demonstrated an added bonus of colleting saliva samples: that it is possible to gather both human genetic data and potentially interesting salivary microbiome data at the same time by separating and analysing in parallel human and non-human DNA fragments.
The discriminatory power of the T cell receptor
Authors: Pettmann Johannes , Huhn Anna , Abu-Shah Enas , Kutuzov Mikhail , Wilson Daniel B. , Dustin Michael L. , Davis Simon J. , van der Merwe P. Anton , Dushek Omer 
Published: November 2020

AbstractT cells use their T-cell receptors (TCRs) to discriminate between lower-affinity self and higher affinity non-self pMHC antigens. Although the discriminatory power of the TCR is widely believed to be near-perfect, technical difficulties have hampered efforts to precisely quantify it. Here, we describe a method for measuring very low TCR/pMHC affinities, and use it to measure the discriminatory power of the TCR, and the factors affecting it. We find that TCR discrimination, although enhanced compared with conventional cell-surface receptors, is imperfect: primary human T cells can respond to pMHC with affinities as low as KD~1 mM. The kinetic proofreading mechanism fit our data, providing the first estimates of both the time delay (2.8 s) and number of biochemical steps (2.67) that are consistent with the extraordinary sensitivity of antigen recognition. Our findings explain why self pMHC frequently induce autoimmune diseases and anti-tumour responses, and suggest ways to modify TCR discrimination.
Distinct and Common Neural Coding of Semantic and Non-semantic Control Demands
Authors: Gao Zhiyao , Zheng Li , Chiou Rocco , Gouws André , Krieger-Redwood Katya , Wang Xiuyi , Varga Dominika , Lambon Ralph Matthew A. , Smallwood Jonathan , Jefferies Elizabeth 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe flexible retrieval of knowledge is critical in everyday situations involving problem solving, reasoning and social interaction. Current theories emphasise the importance of a left-lateralised semantic control network (SCN) in supporting flexible semantic behaviour, while a bilateral multiple-demand network (MDN) is implicated in executive functions across domains. No study, however, has examined whether semantic and non-semantic demands are reflected in a common neural code within regions specifically implicated in semantic control. Using functional MRI and univariate parametric modulation analysis as well as multivariate pattern analysis, we found that semantic and non-semantic demands gave rise to both similar and distinct neural responses across control-related networks. Though activity patterns in SCN and MDN could decode the difficulty of both semantic and verbal working memory decisions, there was no shared common neural coding of cognitive demands in SCN regions. In contrast, regions in MDN showed common patterns across manipulations of semantic and working memory control demands, with successful cross-classification of difficulty across tasks. Therefore, SCN and MDN can be dissociated according to the information they maintain about cognitive demands.
A Rapid Electromechanical Model To Predict Reverse Remodeling Following Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Oomen Pim J.A. , Phung Thien-Khoi N. , Bilchick Kenneth C. , Holmes Jeffrey W. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractCardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an ef-fective therapy for patients who suffer from heart failure and ventricular dyssynchrony such as left bundle branch block (LBBB). When it works, it reverses adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling and the progression of heart failure. How-ever, CRT response rate is currently as low as 50-65%. In theory, CRT outcome could be improved by allowing clinicians to tailor the therapy through patient-specific lead locations, timing, and/or pacing protocol. However, this also presents a dilemma: there are far too many possible strategies to test during the implantation surgery. Computational models could address this dilemma by predicting remodeling outcomes for each patient before the surgery takes place. Therefore, the goal of this study was to develop a rapid computational model to predict reverse LV remodeling following CRT. We adapted our recently developed computational model of LV remodeling to simulate the mechanics of ventricular dyssynchrony and added a rapid electrical model to predict electrical activation timing. The model was calibrated to quantitatively match changes in hemodynamics and global and local LV wall mass from a canine study of LBBB and CRT. The calibrated model was used to investigate the influence of LV lead location and ischemia on CRT remodeling outcome. Our model results suggest that remodeling outcome varies with both lead location and ischemia location, and does not always correlate with short-term improvement in QRS duration. The results and time frame required to customize and run this model suggest promise for this approach in a clinical setting.
Impact of COVID-19: research note on tourism and hospitality sectors in the epicenter of Wuhan and Hubei Province, China
Authors: Knight David W. , Xiong Lina , Lan Wei , Gong Jian 
Published: November 2020

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present initial findings from a vulnerability assessment based on the perceptions of practitioners working in four tourism and hospitality sectors in Wuhan and Hubei Province, namely, cruise lines, hotels, travel agencies and touristic attractions.

Design/methodology/approach
The research note focuses on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak from January to March 2020. Using the destination sustainability framework and an “interpretation” mixed methods research design, the authors analyze phone interviews (n = 151) and subsequent online surveys (n = 370) to assess sector-specific perceptions of exposure, sensitivity and system adaptiveness.

Findings
Overall, findings paint a grim picture of each sector in the short-term. All respondents reported an immediate economic loss due to COVID-19, as well as recovery concerns and uncertainties. Immediate actions for addressing these issues centered on internal cost control and governmental subsidies, while anticipated next steps focused on product adjustment, a transformation of business structures and seeking governmental guidance and policies in restoring market confidence. Findings also allude to future strategies/directions.

Research limitations/implications
This study is limited in its focus on practitioner views in the immediate COVID-19 outbreak. Implications highlight a crucial strategic dependence of each sector on effective government/managerial communication and support, with smaller, local businesses needing particular attention in crisis situations.

Originality/value
To the authors’ knowledge, this research note is the first comprehensive study presenting vital information pertaining to the impact of COVID-19 on tourism and hospitality businesses from a large group of business leaders in the site of the initial outbreak (i.e. Wuhan and Hubei Province). With the highly infectious COVID-19 representing an ongoing threat for populations worldwide, this paper hopes this research note provides valuable insights for practitioners in other vulnerable regions, as well as for researchers examining strategies for resilience against this and future disasters.
Stigma and COVID-19 in Iran: a rapid assessment
Authors: Shokri Azad , Moradi Ghobad , Mohamadi Bolbanabad Amjad , Satary Mitra , Shabrandi Mahin , Sadeghkhani Parsa , Mohammadi Aram , Ghorishi Armin , Veisy Ronak , Veysi Arshad , Piroozi Bakhtiar , Amiri Hoseini Shina , Darvishi Sonia , Asadi Heshmatollah 
Published: November 2020

Purpose
The purpose of the study is to investigate the perceived stigma among residents of Sanandaj, west of Iran, following COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach
This is a cross-sectional study conducted from March to April 2020. The sample consisted of 1,000 participants who live in Sanandaj. The data collection tool was a self-report electronic questionnaire. ANOVA and T-test were used to analyze the data.

Findings
The mean perceived stigma for COVID-19 was 5.50±2.24 (IQR: 3.75–6.87) out of 10-point scale. The highest point was seen for perceived external stigma (6.73±2.49, IQR: 5–8.75) followed by disclosure stigma (4.95±3.92, IQR: 0–10). Interestingly, self-employers were more concerned about disclosing their illness than those with governmental jobs (25±3.93 vs. 4.31±4.14, P<0.05), and also had an overall higher stigma score; 5.72±2.23 vs. 5.19±2.37, P<0.05).

Originality/value
COVID-19 stigma is high among Iranians and more common among men, youngsters and self-employers.
Noah’s Ark: technical and theoretical implications concerning the use of metaphor in the treatment of trauma1
Authors: Cavalli Alessandra 
Published: November 2020

AbstractIn this paper, using my clinical work with a 3‐year‐old boy who lost his hearing when he was between 9 and 12 months old, and whose disability was only discovered when he was 22 months old, I will explore two issues of paramount technical importance when working with trauma. Firstly, it is crucial to create a boundary around the traumatic event, so that life before, during and after the trauma can be circumscribed and the traumatic event explored and hopefully understood and integrated. Secondly, it is of paramount importance to establish the level of developmental organization at the time of the trauma, especially in relation to the capacity to integrate bodily affects into mind. I will show how trauma and its vicissitudes are directly dependent on the person’s capacity to resolve the splitting that trauma creates in the mind, and also the key role played by the use of metaphors in the process whereby trauma becomes thinkable and can therefore be integrated into the self.
Effects of protein posttranslational modifications on meat quality: A review
Authors: Li Xin , Zhang Dequan , Ren Chi , Bai Yuqiang , Ijaz Muawuz , Hou Chengli , Chen Li 
Published: November 2020

AbstractMeat quality plays an important role in the purchase decision of consumers, affecting producers and retailers. The formation mechanisms determining meat quality are intricate, as several endogenous and exogenous factors contribute during antemortem and postmortem periods. Abundant research has been performed on meat quality; however, unexpected variation in meat quality remains an issue in the meat industry. Protein posttranslational modifications (PTMs) regulate structures and functions of proteins in living tissues, and recent reports confirmed their importance in meat quality. The objective of this review was to provide a summary of the research on the effects of PTMs on meat quality. The effects of four common PTMs, namely, protein phosphorylation, acetylation, S‐nitrosylation, and ubiquitination, on meat quality were discussed, with emphasis on the effects of protein phosphorylation on meat tenderness, color, and water holding capacity. The mechanisms and factors that may affect the function of protein phosphorylation are also discussed. The current research confirms that meat quality traits are regulated by multiple PTMs. Cross talk between different PTMs and interactions of PTMs with postmortem biochemical processes need to be explored to improve our understanding on factors affecting meat quality.
Otorrhagia as an intravital phenomenon in a case of incomplete atypical hanging
Authors: Živković Vladimir , Cvetković Danica , Nikolić Slobodan 
Published: November 2020

AbstractHerein, we describe a case of an 81‐year‐old woman who was found hanged in the kneeling position, at the height of about 1.3 m, with anterior position of the knot. There were two downward directed stripes of dried blood coming out of the left nostril and left ear, while the right ear was filled with a small pool of blood. Since the hanging occurred in the kneeling position with the head “on top,” it is likely that the anterior position of the knot, with only (partial) weight of the head pulling the noose, resulted in complete obstruction of the venous flow, but only partial obstruction of the arterial flow, probably including both carotid and vertebral arteries. The venous pressure rise was not caused by the position of the head, meaning that it required a “pump,” that is, preserved circulation and heart function. The first finding that speaks in favor of this mechanism is the small pool of blood in the right external auditory canal, since its position is completely antigravitational. The second one, even more convincing, is the finding of the so‐called trout phenomenon, that is, petechial bleeding on upper and lower eyelids and on the skin between the eyebrows, because this phenomenon requires impaired or obstructed venous return in the presence of continued arterial input. We can conclude that in this case of atypical, incomplete, suicidal hanging, otorrhagia was a vital reaction.
Phenotypic changes in the metabolic profile and adiponectin activity during seasonal fattening and hibernation in female Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus)
Authors: REN Yue , SONG Shiyi , LIU Xinyu , YANG Ming 
Published: November 2020

AbstractSeasonal hibernation has provided an opportunity to study animals’ phenotypic plasticity in adaptation to changing environment. In the present study focusing on the female Daurian ground squirrel (Spermophilus dauricus)—a well demonstrated seasonal hibernator—we examined their behavioral, morphological, and metabolic changes during fattening, hibernation, and emergence. Our data indicated high levels of food intake, fat deposition, and body mass increases during fattening compared to hibernation. The levels of serum glucose and triglycerides were also higher during fattening than during hibernation and emergence. Interestingly, although squirrels showed signs of obesity and elevated triglycerides in serum during fattening, triglyceride levels in the liver and skeletal muscles remained unchanged. Our data also indicated that adiponectin levels in serum and cerebrospinal fluid were different between fattening and hibernation. Levels of adiponectin receptor 1 in the skeletal muscle remained low during fattening but peaked in late hibernation. In contrast, adiponectin receptor 2 in the liver showed a steady increase during fattening, which was followed by a significant decrease at early hibernation. Our data indicate that adiponectin may play an important role in preventing heterotopic fat accumulation in a receptor‐ and organ‐specific manner, as well as in facilitating the switch from glucose metabolism to lipid metabolism during fattening and hibernation in female Daurian ground squirrels.
Phenotypic consequences of maternally selected nests: a cross‐fostering experiment in a desert lizard
Authors: LI Shuran , HAO Xin , SUN Baojun , BI Junhuai , ZHANG Yongpu , DU Weiguo 
Published: November 2020

AbstractDespite the importance of maternally selected nests in shaping offspring phenotypes, our understanding of how the nest environment affects embryonic development and offspring traits of most non‐avian reptiles is rather limited largely due to the logistical difficulty in locating their nests. To identify the relative contributions of environmental (temporal [seasonal] and spatial [nest‐site]) and intrinsic (clutch) factors on embryonic development and offspring traits, we conducted a cross‐fostering experiment by swapping eggs between maternally‐selected nests of the toad‐headed agama (Phrynocephalus przewalskii) in the field. We found that nest environment explained a large proportion of variation in incubation duration, hatching success, and offspring size and growth. In contrast, clutch only explained a small proportion of variation in these embryonic and offspring traits. More significantly, compared with spatial effects, seasonal effects explained more phenotypic variation in both embryonic development and offspring traits. Eggs laid early in the nesting season had longer incubation durations and produced smaller hatchlings with higher post‐hatching growth rates than did later‐laid eggs. Consequently, hatchlings from early‐laid eggs reached larger body sizes prior to winter. In addition, we found that female toad‐headed agama did not select nests specific to reaction norms of their own offspring because hatchlings from original or translocated nests had similar phenotypic traits. Overall, our study demonstrates the importance of seasonal variation in nest environments in determining embryonic development and offspring phenotypes, which has not been widely appreciated at least in non‐avian reptiles.
Inactivation of Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli O157: H7 and mesophilic background microbiota of meat homogenate using elevated hydrostatic pressure, mild heat, and thymol
Authors: Aras Sadiye , Kabir Md Niamul , Allison Abimbola , George Jyothi , Fouladkhah Aliyar 
Published: November 2020

AbstractA six‐strain mixture of E. coli O157:H7 was exposed to 0 to 9 min of six treatments: (i) hydrostatic pressure (400 MPa) at 4 °C; (ii) hydrostatic pressure and thymol at 4 °C; (iii) thymol at 4 °C; (iv) heat at 40 °C; (v) hydrostatic pressure at 40 °C; and (vi) hydrostatic pressure and thymol at 40 °C. Pressure intensity level of 400 MPa and thymol concentration of 0.15% (w/v) were used for the experiments of inoculated pathogen (4.0 to 5.0 log CFU/mL) in a homogenate (10% nonsterilized beef in 90% sterilized distilled water). Temperature was precisely monitored by stainless steel water jacket surrounding pressure chamber (16 mL volume), mechanically linked to a refrigerated circulating water bath. Analyses of variance were conducted followed by Tukey‐ and Dunnett's‐adjusted mean separations. Pathogen counts before treatment were 4.08 ± 0.7 log CFU/mL and were reduced (P < 0.05) to 0.67 ± 0.2 log CFU/mL after 6 min of pressure treatment. Thymol and mild heat (40 °C) further augmented decontamination efficacy of pressure treatments where in their presence, the mesophilic background microbiota counts of pressure‐treated samples after 3, 6, and 9 min were reduced (P < 0.05) by 2.1, 2.5, and 3.1 log CFU/mL, respectively. Results of the current study indicate that thymol and mild heat could enhance decontamination efficacy of elevated hydrostatic pressure for pasteurization of food commodities. This could be of great significance for industry practitioners to assure microbiological safety of a product and cost optimization by benefiting from synergism of antimicrobials, mild heat, and elevated hydrostatic pressure.Practical ApplicationThymol and mild heat could enhance decontamination efficacy of pressure‐based pasteurizer that could be of great significance for practitioners. Application of pressure coupled with antimicrobial and mild heat could assure microbiological safety of a product, lead to cost optimization, and assist in meeting regulatory requirements of food commerce such as Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point and Preventive Control for Human Food rule of Food Safety Modernization Act. Addition of an antimicrobial could have further co‐benefits for the product due to residual protective effects during shelf‐life and minimizing potential undesirable organoleptic changes associated with pressure treatments of >400 MPa.