julilili42/papers huggingface dataset:
A Leaf Point Documents Hunting with Spears in the Middle Paleolithic at Hohle Fels, Germany
2021-08-18

During the 2020 season at Hohle Fels Cave in the Ach Valley of southwestern Germany the excavation team from the University of Tübingen recovered a bifacial leaf point in archaeological horizon (AH) X. This horizon is the fifth deepest of the Middle Paleolithic horizons at the site and is located roughly 120 cm beneath the base of the rich Aurignacian layers of the cave. The new leaf point, or Blattspitze in German, is the first artifact of its kind found in situ in the Swabian caves since Gustav Riek’s excavation at Haldenstein Cave near the source of the Lone River recovered two leaf points in excellent preservation in 1936. The new find allowed our team to conduct the first techno-functional study of a freshly recovered leaf point from the European Middle Paleolithic. This study demonstrates that the leaf point was hafted at the less pointy end of the artifact. The leaf point bears clear damage to the pointed end of the artifact that occurred during a hunting episode. A Neanderthal knapper further damaged the tool during an attempt to resharpen and rejuvenate the tool. This damage was likely the reason the knapper discarded the leaf point at Hohle Fels. This result and a re-examination of the two leaf points from Haldenstein Cave indicate that late Neanderthals used Blattspitzen for hunting large game. The current results do not explicitly prove that spears with hafted leaf points were always thrown or used as thrusting spears, and one can easily imagine scenarios in which a weapon of this kind could be used in both ways. Ideally, the ongoing excavation at Hohle Fels will recover more leaf points, which will allow us to document the technological variability of this kind of tool with regard to its manufacture, function and life history. We also view the current research at Hohle Fels as an excellent opportunity to gain a better and more strongly contextualized understanding of the technological system linking lithic, botanical and osseous technologies during this phase of the Middle Paleolithic. This paper also considers the place that hafted leaf points have within the broader evolutionary development of hunting and projectile technology.
Estimating smooth and sparse neural receptive fields with a flexible spline basis
2021-08-18

Spatio-temporal receptive field (STRF) models are frequently used to approximate the computation implemented by a sensory neuron. Typically, such STRFs are assumed to be smooth and sparse. Current state-of-the-art approaches for estimating STRFs based empirical Bayes estimation encode such prior knowledge into a prior covariance matrix, whose hyperparameters are learned from the data, and thus provide STRF estimates with the desired properties even with little or noisy data. However, empirical Bayes methods are often not computationally efficient in high-dimensional settings, as encountered in sensory neuroscience. Here we pursued an alternative approach and encode prior knowledge for estimation of STRFs by choosing a set of basis function with the desired properties: a natural cubic spline basis. Our method is computationally efficient, and can be easily applied to Linear-Gaussian and Linear-Nonlinear-Poisson models as well as more complicated Linear-Nonlinear-Linear-Nonlinear cascade model or spike-triggered clustering methods. We compared the performance of spline-based methods to no-spline ones on simulated and experimental data, showing that spline-based methods consistently outperformed the no-spline versions. We provide a Python toolbox for all suggested methods ().
Reappraising prone positioning for infants with Robin sequence: a cautionary tale
2021-08-18

(Pierre-)Robin sequence (RS) is characterised by mandibular retrognathia, glossoptosis and upper airway obstruction (UAO). To alleviate the latter, placing such infants prone was already suggested as a first-line treatment by Robin himself, the eponym of this condition. Indeed, it appears intuitively plausible that gravity will help shifting the mandible forward during sleep. Against this background, it was not surprising that the prone position was implemented by about two-thirds of respondents to a recent survey focusing on interventions used in infants with RS.1 In neonatology, however, we have learnt the hard way that what seems plausible is not always effective and, particularly, safe. Thus, we need to scrutinise the evidence for recommending prone positioning to resolve UAO in infants with RS. Objective data on the effectiveness of this intervention, however, are sparse. A retrospective analysis of sleep study data in 18 infants with RS (mean age, 1.5 months) found a higher sleep efficiency in the prone position, but no significant reduction in the severity of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).2 A longitudinal prospective study in 14 infants with RS (mean age, 1.8 months) reported a median Obstructive Apnoea–Hypopnoea ...
Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane Compatibility with N-Hydroxysuccinimide Ester Chemistry: Biotinylation of Peptides and Proteins in TRIS Buffer
2021-08-18

<i>N</i>-Hydroxysuccinimide esters of small molecules are widely used to modify biomolecules such as antibodies or proteins. Primary amine groups preferably react with the ester to form covalent amide bonds. Currently, protocols strongly recommend replacing the buffer reagent tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, and it has even been proposed as a stop reagent. Here, we show that TRIS indeed does not interfere with biotinylation of biomolecules with NHS chemistry.
Surgical Therapy After Failed Feminizing Genitoplasty in Young Adults with Disorders of Sex Development: Retrospective Analysis and Review of the Literature
2021-08-18

ABSTRACT Background Secondary vaginal stenosis may occur after reconstruction of genital malformations in childhood or after failed vaginal aplasia repair in adults. Aim This study focusses on the results of the surgical treatment of these patients in our multidisciplinary transitional disorders/differences of sex development team of pediatric surgeons and gynecologists. Methods A retrospective analysis was carried out on adult and female identified disorders/differences of sex development patients with vaginal stenoses treated between 2015 and 2018 in a single center with revision vaginoplasty. The underlying type of malformation, the number and surgical techniques of vaginoplasties in infancy, techniques of revision of the stenotic vagina, vaginal length and caliber, possibility of sexual intercourse, and temporary vaginal dilatation. A review of literature with regard to recommended surgical techniques of revision vaginoplasties was accomplished. Outcomes To describe the surgical technique, the main outcome measures of this study are vaginal calipers after revision vaginoplasty as well as ability for sexual intercourse. RESULTS Thirteen patients presented with vaginal stenosis with a median age of 19 years (range 16–31). All patients had one or more different types of vaginoplasties in their medical history, with a median age at first vaginoplasty of 15 months (0–233). Underlying anatomical conditions were urogenital sinus (n = 8), vaginal agenesis (n = 2), persistent cloacae (n = 2), and cloacal exstrophy (n = 1). The main symptoms were disability of sexual intercourse in 13 patients due to stenotic vaginal tissue. The most frequently performed surgical technique was partial urogenital mobilization with a perineal or lateral flaps (n = 10), followed by bowel vaginoplasty (n = 2), in 1 patient a revision vaginoplasty failed due to special anatomical conditions. In a median follow-up of 11 months, all but one patient presented with physiological vaginal length and width, and normal sexual intercourse in those with a partnership. Clinical Implications Perineal flap with partial urogenital mobilization should be considered as a treatment of choice in severe cases of distal vaginal stenosis and after multiple failed former vaginoplasties, while bowel vaginoplasty should be reserved only for cases of complete cicatrization or high located stenosis of the vagina. Strengths &amp; Limitations The strength of this study is the detailed description of several cases while the retrospective character is a limitation. CONCLUSION In patients after feminizing genital repair, perineal flap with partial urogenital mobilization provides a normal anatomical outcome and allows unproblematic sexual intercourse.
Density functional for the lattice gas from fundamental measure theory
2021-08-18

We construct a density functional for the lattice gas or Ising model on square and cubic lattices based on lattice fundamental measure theory. To treat the nearest-neighbor attractions between the lattice gas particles, the model is mapped to a multicomponent model of hard particles with additional lattice polymers where effective attractions between particles arise from the depletion effect. The lattice polymers are further treated via the introduction of polymer clusters (labelled by the numbers of polymer they contain) such that the model becomes a multicomponent model of particles and polymer clusters with nonadditive hard interactions. The density functional for this nonadditive hard model is constructed with lattice fundamental measure theory. The resulting bulk phase diagram recovers the Bethe-Peierls approximation and planar interface tensions show a considerable improvement compared to the standard mean-field functional and are close to simulation results in three dimensions. We demonstrate the existence of planar interface solutions at chemical potentials away from coexistence when the equimolar interface position is constrained to arbitrary real values.
The impact of mandatory economic education on adolescents’ attitudes
2021-08-18

Various studies have examined how the study of economics affects students' views on economic phenomena, yet there is little evidence regarding its impact on teenagers. We study the effect of a recent curriculum reform introducing mandatory economic education on teenagers' attitudes towards economics in Southwest Germany. Our findings reveal that students affected by the reform show, on average, more interest in economics, see money as more important and expect more social responsibility from companies. Conversely, we don't observe differences in attitudes towards competition. Regarding socio-economic characteristics, our data reveal strong gender differences already before adulthood.
The Lithics and Fauna from Heidenschmiede, a Middle Paleolithic Rockshelter in Heidenheim an der Brenz (Swabian Jura)
2021-08-18

Heidenschmiede is a Middle Paleolithic rockshelter located in Heidenheim an der Brenz. The site was excavated in 1930 by Eduard Peters, but the archaeological remains were never completely analyzed. The lithic and faunal remains have recently been re-analyzed by the authors. The general features of the lithics are indicative of a Middle Paleolithic technology that includes a non-Levallois blade technology. The faunal remains reflect a Mammoth Steppe ecosystem and include mammoth, horse, woolly rhino and reindeer. Carnivore species play a minor role, although some carnivore gnawing is present. The archeological assemblage of this rockshelter demonstrates clear evidence of human activities, such as flint knapping, butchering of game animals, maintaining of hearths (burnt bones) and preparation of organic tools (retouchers).
Biological aspects of the larva of Sepedophilus testaceus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae, Tachyporinae): morphology of the posterior abdomen and prey-capture behaviour
2021-08-18

Two aspects of the larval biology of the rove beetle Sepedophilus testaceus (Staphylinidae: Tachyporinae) were investigated, namely the morphology of the posterior abdomen (abdominal apex) and the predatory behaviour of the larvae towards elusive springtails. The larvae move their urogomphi via a single urogomphal muscle. Its presumed antagonist is a cuticular, possibly elastic process that lies below the urogomphus. Additional features of the posterior abdomen include (i) a reduced but well-developed musculature, (ii) segmental exocrine glands of unknown function, and (iii) five rectal diverticula that are externally visible as eversible lobes and that presumably serve as adhesive organs. Segments IX and X deviate from the more anterior abdominal segments in both their external and internal organisation including their equipment with muscles. Comparisons with previous studies suggest that the segmental glands and rectal diverticula are groundplan features of Staphylinidae and Staphyliniformia, respectively. However, the structure and biological relevance of these traits have as yet received little attention. Laboratory-based highspeed videography observations have confirmed that the investigated L3 larvae are predaceous and highly capable of capturing even elusive prey such as springtails with a relatively high success rate of 40%. The larvae attack their prey immediately after accidental contact and detect and localise their exact position via the hair-like sensilla on their antennae and other body parts. Contact with the prey is below threshold, i.e. occurs without releasing the prey's escape response, and is followed by a rapid grasping movement of about 40 milliseconds on average that is executed by the falciform mandibles of the larva. This is well within the range of the escape response of the springtail.
The Middle Paleolithic Occupations of Mutzig-Rain (Alsace, France)
2021-08-18

The Paleolithic site of Mutzig, discovered by chance in 1992 (Sainty 1992), has been the focus of several excavations since 2009. Located in Alsace (Bas-Rhin, France), it is presently one of only a handful of sites reliably attributed to the Middle Paleolithic in this area, thus providing rare evidence for a zone still relatively unknown for Early Prehistoric remains. The excellent preservation of the remains and the long stratigraphic sequence, with 6 to 8 in situ archaeological levels, make Mutzig a potential reference site for environmental and behavioral analyses for the Middle Paleolithic of the region. At least four archaeological levels contain burnt elements, and one level features a hearth structure.
The Puzzle of the Sophist
2021-08-18

Abstract The many definitions of sophistry at the beginning of Plato’s Sophist have puzzled scholars just as much as they puzzled the dialogue’s main speakers: the Visitor from Elea and Theaetetus. The aim of this paper is to give an account of that puzzlement. This puzzlement, it is argued, stems not from a logical or epistemological problem, but from the metaphysical problem that, given the multiplicity of accounts, the interlocutors do not know what the sophist essentially is. It transpires that, in order to properly account for this puzzle, one must jettison the traditional view of Plato’s method of division, on which divisions must be exclusive and mark out relations of essential predication. It is then shown on independent grounds that, although Platonic division in the Sophist must express predication relations and be transitive, it need not be dichotomous, exclusive, or express relations of essential predication. Once the requirements of exclusivity and essential predication are dropped, it is possible to make sense of the reasons that the Visitor from Elea and Theaetetus are puzzled. Moreover, with this in hand, it is possible to see Plato making an important methodological point in the dialogue: division on its own without any norms does not necessarily lead to the discovery of essences.
A randomized-controlled neurofeedback trial in adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
2021-08-19

Abstract Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a childhood onset disorder persisting into adulthood for a large proportion of cases. Neurofeedback (NF) has shown promising results in children with ADHD, but randomized controlled trials in adults with ADHD are scarce. We aimed to compare slow cortical potential (SCP)- and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) NF to a semi-active electromyography biofeedback (EMG-BF) control condition regarding changes in symptoms and the impact of learning success, as well as changes in neurophysiological parameters in an adult ADHD population. Patients were randomly assigned to SCP-NF ( n = 26), fNIRS-NF ( n = 21) or EMG-BF ( n = 20). Outcome parameters were assessed over 30 training sessions (pre, intermediate, post) and at 6-months follow-up (FU) including 3 booster sessions. EEG was recorded during two auditory Go/NoGo paradigms assessing the P300 and contingent negative variation (CNV). fNIRS measurements were conducted during an n-back- as well as a Go/NoGo task. All three groups showed equally significant symptom improvements suggesting placebo- or non-specific effects on the primary outcome measure. Only when differentiating between learners and non-learners, fNIRS learners displayed stronger reduction of ADHD global scores compared to SCP non-learners at FU, and fNIRS learners showed specifically low impulsivity ratings. 30.8% in the SCP-NF and 61.9% of participants in the fNIRS-NF learned to regulate the respective NF target parameter. We conclude that some adults with ADHD learn to regulate SCP amplitudes and especially prefrontal hemodynamic activity during NF. We did not find any significant differences in outcome between groups when looking at the whole sample. When evaluating learners only, they demonstrate superior effects as compared to non-learners, which suggests specific effects in addition to non-specific effects of NF when learning occurs.
Single Indium Atoms and Few-Atom Indium Clusters Anchored onto Graphene via Silicon Heteroatoms
2021-08-19

Single atoms and few-atom nanoclusters are of high interest in catalysis and plasmonics, but pathways for their fabrication and placement remain scarce. We report here the self-assembly of room-temperature-stable single indium (In) atoms and few-atom In clusters (2-6 atoms) that are anchored to substitutional silicon (Si) impurity atoms in suspended monolayer graphene membranes. Using atomically resolved scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), we find that the symmetry of the In structures is critically determined by the three- or fourfold coordination of the Si "anchors". All structures are produced without electron-beam induced materials modification. In turn, when activated by electron beam irradiation in the STEM, we observe <i>in situ</i> the formation, restructuring, and translation of the Si-anchored In structures. Our results on In-Si-graphene provide a materials system for controlled self-assembly and heteroatomic anchoring of single atoms and few-atom nanoclusters on graphene.
What Drives Senegalese SMEs to Adopt Renewable Energy Technologies? Applying an Extended UTAUT2 Model to a Developing Economy
2021-08-19

Renewable energy technology (RET) can help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies to both meet the need for a stable energy supply and contribute to the fight against climate change. In Senegal, SMEs have the opportunity through RET to become electricity prosumers. Whether it works as such in Senegalese SMEs is one of the questions we were able to address through qualitative interviews with 23 SMEs and 13 experts. Using qualitative content analysis, we examined what factors promote the adoption of RET by these SMEs. We also examined how well the established Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model (UTAUT2) can serve as a guiding framework for this type of investigation. We find that effort expectancy is generally underestimated. Performance expectancy, when high, may influence the adoption process positively, while social influence does not seem to play a role. Both SMEs and experts point to customer service and government support for SMEs adopting RET as important facilitating conditions. The cost of RET is another factor influencing the adoption of these technologies. However, we regard the UTAUT2 as only partially helpful for the Senegalese context, due to the informal sector economy in Senegal. This leads us to add the factors knowledge, communication channels and entrepreneurial orientation. Moreover, we question the unequivocally positive notion of prosumerism for African contexts, as the idea draws its motivating power from a Western mindset.
Working memory capacity of crows and monkeys arises from similar neuronal computations
2021-08-19

Abstract Complex cognition relies on flexible working memory, which is severely limited in its capacity. The neuronal computations underlying these capacity limits have been extensively studied in humans and in monkeys, resulting in competing theoretical models. We probed the working memory capacity of crows ( Corvus corone ) in a change detection task, developed for monkeys ( Macaca mulatta ), while we performed extracellular recordings of the prefrontal-like area nidopallium caudolaterale. We found that neuronal encoding and maintenance of information were affected by item load, in a way that is virtually identical to results obtained from monkey prefrontal cortex. Contemporary neurophysiological models of working memory employ divisive normalization as an important mechanism that may result in the capacity limitation. As these models are usually conceptualized and tested in an exclusively mammalian context, it remains unclear if they fully capture a general concept of working memory or if they are restricted to the mammalian neocortex. Here we report that carrion crows and macaque monkeys share divisive normalization as a neuronal computation that is in line with mammalian models. This indicates that computational models of working memory developed in the mammalian cortex can also apply to non-cortical associative brain regions of birds.
On the origin of Caimaninae: insights from new fossils of Tsoabichi greenriverensis and a review of the evidence
2021-08-19

An incomplete fossil record and unstable phylogenies of extinct taxa hamper reconstructing the early evolution of Caimaninae. We describe previously unpublished articulated fossils of a key species, Tsoabichi greenriverensis from the early Eocene Green River Formation of North America, exhibiting further character evidence for the caimanine affinities of this taxon. Parsimony analysis of modified morphological taxon-character datasets coupled with a critical review of character evolution and published phylogenies reveals that fossil evidence for Palaeogene crown group and Late Cretaceous total-group representatives is unreliable due to uncertain character evolution in early Alligatoridae. The earliest unambiguous fossil age for total and crown-group Caimaninae are 63.5 Ma and 18.06 Ma, respectively. These calibration points follow best practices and are vital for better constrained estimates of time calibrated analyses. Phylogeny continues to imply two separate Caimaninae dispersals between North and South America, but instead of a northward back-dispersal, we find two Palaeogene dispersals to South America an equally likely hypothesis. Miocene taxa of Central America previously assigned to the stem lineage ancestral to South American Caimaninae are reinterpreted as part of a Neogene northward expansion of the crown group.