bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the impact of food tourism vlogger entrepreneurs' language characteristics on audiences' attitude and behaviours
Authors: Hutchinson Wei , Djafarova Elmira , Liu Shaofeng , Abdelrahman Mahmoud
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Despite entrepreneurial linguistic style gaining increased attention in entrepreneurship studies, the field for digital vlogger entrepreneurs still lacks a comprehensive understanding of how linguistic patterns enhance audiences attitude and behaviour. This study aims to propose a conceptual model of “language-mental imagery-attitude-behaviour model” that leads to the examination of rich sensory language style of food travel vlogger entrepreneurs and its persuasive effect on audiences' attitude and behavioural intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study utilises a stimulus-based survey method that involves a sensory-rich vlog script extracted from a high social media engagement authentic vlog. Data are collected through an online questionnaire distributed to a sample of 355 participants via the Amazon Turk mechanism. The study employs confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling to test the proposed hypotheses, with the aim of contributing to the advancement of theories of embodied cognition in entrepreneurial language by examining the attitudes and behaviours of audiences exposed to sensory-rich language. The findings of this research provide valuable insights into the effects of sensory-rich language on audience responses and can inform future research on the role of embodied cognition in entrepreneurial communication.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that vlogger entrepreneurial sensory-rich linguistic communication style positively influence audiences' attitude, behavioural involvement with food and intention to taste. Visit intention will be enhanced via the mediating effects of attitude, behavioural involvement with food and intention to taste.

Practical implications

This research highlights the significance of sensory-rich language for vlogger entrepreneurs in entrepreneurial communication, digital storytelling and for destination marketing enterprises in creating a digital sensory engagement marketing strategy.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature by elucidating the theories of embodied cognition in entrepreneurial communication. By examining the relationships between vlogger communication evoked mental imagery, audiences attitude and behaviours, this study provides novel insights into the effectiveness of sensory-rich language in vlogger entrepreneurial communication and its impact on audience engagement. These findings have important implications for communication scholars and practitioners alike, shedding light on the role of embodied cognition in entrepreneurial language and the potential of sensory-rich language to enhance audience engagement.
Vulnerability and resilience among women migrant street vendors during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Thanh Pham Tien , Bao Duong Pham
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Women migrant street vendors are considered a vulnerable group in societies, thereby being hard hit during a crisis. This research aims to examine effects of COVID-19 social distancing on their businesses, consumption, health and general lives; solutions and mitigation strategies that they adopted in response to these adverse effects; and their recovery of socioeconomic lives after social distancing.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from the women migrant street vendors in urban Vietnam. Descriptive statistics, probit model and ordered probit model were used for empirical analysis.

Findings

Women migrant street vendors faced immense challenges during social distancing. They also lacked solutions to sustain their businesses and were forced to resort to various mitigation strategies. Their socioeconomic lives were also slow to recover after social distancing. In addition, those experiencing greater business loss faced more adverse effects during social distancing and have more difficulties in the recovery of socioeconomic lives after social distancing.

Practical implications

This research highlights the importance of redesigning social policies to support women migrant street vendors during crises. It also emphasizes the need to formalize and legalize their activities to foster sustainable and inclusive development in the long term.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is among the first attempts to explore the effects of COVID-19 social distancing on the women migrant street vendors and to examine how they respond to these adverse effects.
Receptiveness of mass-engineered timber (MET) residential buildings among young stakeholders
Authors: Shang Gao , Pheng Low Sui , Fai Benjamin Peh Kah
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Traditional construction materials and methodologies are often perceived to be unproductive, labour-intensive and detrimental to the environment. Mass-engineered timber (MET) is a new structural material that is capable of overcoming numerous issues that otherwise affect the built environment. This study was formulated to assess the current attitude and perception of young Singaporeans towards the concept of Engineered Timber Residential Buildings (ETRBs).

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs the mixed-method approach. Questionnaires were used as the primary mode of data gathering. These were disseminated to Singaporeans between the age of 18 and 35 years. A total of 179 valid responses were gathered. Semi-structured interviews were subsequently conducted with six individuals with different demographics in order to gain further insightful opinions and to allow cross validation of responses.

Findings

Statistical analysis revealed that 80% of respondents were willing to accept ETRBs, but a lack of awareness and knowledge of MET and the presence of misconceptions, such as an association with deforestation, may present concerns. The study also revealed that individual acceptance of ETRBs is not affected by demographics.

Originality/value

The production of MET involves lower overall carbon emissions than that of conventional materials, and this also allows adoption of the Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) concept and offers the benefit of carbon sequestration. Residential buildings are the second most common building type in Singapore; significant benefits can be gained if MET is used as the primary material for residential buildings. In general, young stakeholders in Singapore welcome the concept of ETRBs, despite possessing uncertainties about ETRBs—understandable given that the material lacks a track record of usage. Public authorities are thus advised to explore the feasibility of materialising the concept of ETRBs as an option for public housing.
Is it time to reboot welfare economics? Overview
Authors: Coyle Diane , Fabian Mark , Beinhocker Eric , Besley Tim , Stevens Margaret
Published: August 2023

The contributions of economists have long included both positive explanations of how economic systems work and normative recommendations for how they could and should work better. In recent decades, economics has taken a strong empirical turn as well as having a greater appreciation of the importance of the complexities of real‐world human behaviour, institutions, the strengths and failures of markets, and interlinkages with other systems, including politics, technology, culture and the environment. This shift has also brought greater relevance and pragmatism to normative economics. While this shift towards evidence and pragmatism has been welcome, it does not in itself answer the core question of what exactly constitutes ‘better’, and for whom, and how to manage inevitable conflicts and trade‐offs in society. These have long been the core concerns of welfare economics. Yet, in the 1980s and 1990s, debates on welfare economics seemed to have become marginalised. The articles in this Fiscal Studies symposium engage with the question of how to revive normative questions as a central issue in economic scholarship.
Sex‐ and APOE‐specific genetic risk factors for late‐onset Alzheimer's disease: Evidence from gene–gene interaction of longevity‐related loci
Authors: Dato Serena , De Rango Francesco , Crocco Paolina , Pallotti Stefano , Belloy Michael E. , Le Guen Yann , Greicius Michael D. , Passarino Giuseppe , Rose Giuseppina , Napolioni Valerio
Published: August 2023

Advanced age is the largest risk factor for late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD), a disease in which susceptibility correlates to almost all hallmarks of aging. Shared genetic signatures between LOAD and longevity were frequently hypothesized, likely characterized by distinctive epistatic and pleiotropic interactions. Here, we applied a multidimensional reduction approach to detect gene–gene interactions affecting LOAD in a large dataset of genomic variants harbored by genes in the insulin/IGF1 signaling, DNA repair, and oxidative stress pathways, previously investigated in human longevity. The dataset was generated from a collection of publicly available Genome Wide Association Studies, comprising a total of 2,469 gene variants genotyped in 20,766 subjects of Northwestern European ancestry (11,038 LOAD cases and 9,728 controls). The stratified analysis according to APOE*4 status and sex corroborated evidence that pathways leading to longevity also contribute to LOAD. Among the significantly interacting genes, PTPN1, TXNRD1, and IGF1R were already found enriched in gene–gene interactions affecting survival to old age. Furthermore, interacting variants associated with LOAD in a sex‐ and APOE‐specific way. Indeed, while in APOE*4 female carriers we found several inter‐pathway interactions, no significant epistasis was found in APOE*4 negative females; conversely, in males, significant intra‐ and inter‐pathways epistasis emerged according to APOE*4 status. These findings suggest that interactions of risk factors may drive different trajectories of cognitive aging. Beyond helping to disentangle the genetic architecture of LOAD, such knowledge may improve precision in predicting the risk of dementia and enable effective sex‐ and APOE‐stratified preventive and therapeutic interventions for LOAD.
Pharmaceutical management of type 2 diabetes among Indigenous Australians living in urban or rural locations: a comparative study using a national general practice database
Authors: Pink Natalie , Liddell Antoinette , Gonzalez‐Chica David , Stocks Nigel
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes is more prevalent among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, especially those living in rural than urban areas. However, little is known about how diabetes is managed in different settings.

Objective

To investigate differences in the prevalence of diabetes and the prescription of antidiabetic medications for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples living in urban or rural Australia.

Design

Cross‐sectional study using de‐identified electronic medical records of 29,429 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander adults (60.4% females; mean age 45.2 ± 17.3 years) regularly attending 528 ‘mainstream’ Australian general practices (MedicineInsight) in 2018.

Findings

The prevalence of diabetes was 16.0%, and it was more frequent among those living in rural areas (22.0; 95% CI 19.3–24.4) than inner regional (17.6%; 95% CI 16.0–19.2) or major cities (15.8%; 95% CI 14.7–17.0; p < 0.001). The highest prevalence of diabetes was for males living in rural settings (25.0%). Of those with diabetes, 71.6% (95% CI 69.0–74.0) were prescribed antidiabetics, with a similar frequency in urban and rural areas (p = 0.291). After adjustment for sociodemographics, the only difference in diabetes management was a higher prescription of sulfonylureas in rural areas than in major cities (OR 1.39; 1.07–1.80).

Discussion

The prevalence of diabetes was similar to other national data, although we found it was more frequent amongst Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander males, especially those from rural areas.

Conclusion

Despite current recommendations, one‐in‐four Indigenous Australians with diabetes were not prescribed antidiabetics. The clinical significance of more frequent prescriptions of sulfonylureas in rural locations remains unclear.
Compound heterozygous variants in RAB34 in a rare skeletal ciliopathy syndrome
Authors: Batkovskyte Dominyka , Komatsu Maya , Hammarsjö Anna , Pooh Ritsuko , Shimokawa Osamu , Ikegawa Shiro , Grigelioniene Giedre , Nishimura Gen , Yamada Takahiro
Published: August 2023

Skeletal ciliopathies are a heterogenous group of congenital disorders characterized by multiple internal abnormalities, and distinct radiographic presentation. Pathogenic variants in at least 30 cilia genes are known to cause skeletal ciliopathies. Here we report a fetus with an atypical skeletal ciliopathy phenotype and compound heterozygous variants in the RAB34 gene. The affected fetus had multiple malformations, including posterior neck edema, micrognathia, low‐set and small ears, auricular hypoplasia, cleft lip and palate, short extremities, and a combination of rarely occurring pre‐ and postaxial polydactyly. Genome sequencing identified compound heterozygous variants in the RAB34 gene: maternal c.254T>C, p.(Ile85Thr), and paternal c.691C>T, p.(Arg231*) variants. Only the paternal variant was present in the unaffected sibling. Evidence in the literature indicated that Rab34−/− mice displayed a ciliopathy phenotype with cleft palate and polydactyly. These features were consistent with malformations detected in our patient supporting the pathogenicity of the identified RAB34 variants. Overall, this case report further expands genetic landscape of human ciliopathy syndromes and suggests RAB34 as a candidate gene for skeletal ciliopathies.
Sarcopenia assessed by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging is associated with the loss of response to biologic therapies in adult patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Tang Hongye , Lin Tingting , Wang Jiangchuan , Cui Wenjing , Xie Chao , Wang Zhongqiu , Chen Yugen , Chen Xiao
Published: August 2023

Sarcopenia occurs in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). However, the association between sarcopenia and loss of response (LOR) to biologic agents remains unclear. This study explored such an association in CD patients. This retrospective study included 94 CD patients who received biologic therapy. The skeletal muscle cross‐sectional area at the third lumbar was assessed by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging for sarcopenia evaluation. A LOR was defined by fecal calprotectin (FC) < 250 μg/g or >50% reduction from baseline levels or other factors, such as the used agent being replaced by other biologic agents. The association between sarcopenia and LOR was assessed by logistic regression analysis. LOR was observed in 54 patients (57.4%). The prevalence of sarcopenia in the LOR group was higher than that in response group (70.4% vs. 40.0%, p = 0.003). Sarcopenia (odds ratio [OR] = 3.89, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.31–11.54), Montreal L1 type (OR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.06–0.60), perianal lesions (OR = 4.08, 95% CI: 1.31–12.70), and monocytes percentage (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.02–1.57) at baseline were independent associated factors for LOR. Sarcopenia was also associated with LOR in patients who received infliximab (OR = 3.31, 95% CI: 1.11–9.87). Montreal L1 type, perianal lesions, and monocytes percentage (Model 1), and with additional consideration of sarcopenia (Model 2), were developed to predict LOR. Model 2 showed better performance than Model 1 (area under the curve [AUC] 0.82 vs. 0.75). Sarcopenia was associated with the LOR to biological agents or infliximab in adult patients with CD.
Board cultural diversity and firm performance under competitive pressures
Authors: Dodd Olga , Frijns Bart , Gong Robin Kaiji , Liao Shushu
Published: August 2023

We examine the impact of board cultural diversity, based on directors' ancestry, on firm performance conditional on product market competition. We argue that culturally diverse boards foster critical thinking and offer creative solutions that help firms thrive in competitive environments. We document that culturally diverse boards are associated with superior performance for firms operating in highly competitive industries. To address potential endogeneity issues, we use a quasi‐natural experiment of the U.S. import tariff cuts. The positive impact of board cultural diversity on firm performance in competitive markets manifests itself in firms that innovate more, require creative inputs, and face heightened predation risk due to their high interdependence with industry rivals, in line with culturally diverse boards effectively performing their advisory role. Lastly, we find no evidence that board cultural diversity is associated with enhanced monitoring as its benefits fade in the presence of powerful CEOs.
Urolithin B alleviates Helicobacter pylori‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress in mice
Authors: Yu Zhihao , Zhang Xiangyue , Zhao Qiao , Yan Xin , Wu Chengmeng , Qing Liting , He Zongyu , Chen Qian , Huang Min , Zhao Jian , Cao Mei
Published: August 2023

Background

Helicobacter pylori is one of the most common chronic bacterial infections. Active eradication of H. pylori infection is rare due to the fact that most infected patients are asymptomatic and the use of large amounts of antibiotics in eradication therapy leads to severe side effects. Urolithin B (UB) is an additional major intestinal metabolite of ellagic acid (EA), which has been shown to possess anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic biological activities. Preventing the incidence of H. pylori‐related gastric disease and reducing the damage to the host by H. pylori is a current approach to control H. pylori infection. In this study, we explored the effect of UB on H. pylori infection.

Materials and Methods

The effects of UB on inflammation and oxidative stress induced by H. pylori in vivo and in vitro were investigated by qPCR, ELISA, HE staining, IHC staining, etc.

Results

UB reduced the adhesion and colonization of H. pylori and improved H. pylori‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, UB had better anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects than clarithromycin (CLR) and metronidazole (MET). In addition to inhibiting the secretion of CagA, UB reduced tissue damage by H. pylori infection.

Conclusions

UB was effective in improving damage caused by H. pylori.
Awareness and knowledge of laser hair removal: a cross sectional study from tertiary care dermatology clinics in Oman
Authors: Al Hatmi Iman , Al Qassabi Al Mutasim , Al Hatmi Khaloud
Published: August 2023

Background

Laser hair removal (LHR), including the use of home‐based devices, is becoming very popular in Oman. Despite this, some people still have many misconceptions about this procedure, especially of its long‐term complications. This study aimed to assess the awareness and knowledge of LHR among dermatology clinic attendees in Muscat, Oman.

Methods

A cross sectional survey study was conducted at Al Seeb and Bowshar polyclinics in Muscat, Oman, to attendees between the ages of 18 and 70 years. The Chi‐square test was used to assess the association between different categorical variables. Results were considered to be statistically significant if P < 0.05.

Results

Of the 500 questionnaires which were distributed, 403 were completed (response rate = 80.6%). The mean (± standard deviation [SD]) age of participants was 32.9 (8.5) years old. In this study, 45.7% (184/403) of participants had used LHR, and of those, 88.6% (163/184) were satisfied with the results. The knowledge percentage among individuals was higher among those who used LHR compared to those who did not use LHR (46% vs. 27%, respectively; P < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences in LHR knowledge percentages based on employment status or monthly income. Female participants and subjects with an educational level of a college degree or above had superior knowledge regarding the safety of LHR use during pregnancy (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study noted a lack of knowledge, with various misconceptions, about LHR among patients attending dermatology clinics in Oman, especially in individuals who had not used LHR before.
Curcuma particle size evolution by application of bead milling process and curcuminoids content determination
Authors: Lapčíková Barbora , Valenta Tomáš , Lapčík Lubomír , Li Peng
Published: August 2023

The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of curcuma dispersion bead milling on particle size evolution over time. The study of 10 wt.% and 20 wt.% curcuma dispersions revealed that dispersions' polydispersity was decreasing up to 180 min which was found to be the optimum milling time with the volume mean diameter (d4,3) of (11.47 ± 0.85) μm. This diameter was the most effective with respect to the curcuma powder coagulation process attributed to the effect of curcuma oils after the milling time of 180 min. The mechanochemically atomized curcuma was used as a potential source of curcuminoids. By differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), two endothermic peaks were observed and related to curcuma melting effects. Curcumin powder exhibited one broad melting peak at 176 °C. Obtained data indicated that effective mechanochemical treatment makes curcuma powder a highly beneficial supplement applicable in food matrices of the human diet.
Patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems for partial nephrectomy
Authors: Makiyama Kazuhide , Komeya Mitsuru , Tatenuma Tomoyuki , Noguchi Go , Ohtake Shinji
Published: August 2023

Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the standard treatment for T1 renal cell carcinoma. PN is affected more by surgical variations and requires greater surgical experience than radical nephrectomy. Patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems may help to reduce the surgical experience required for PN. Recent advances in three‐dimensional (3D) virtual reality (VR) imaging and 3D printing technology have allowed accurate patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems. We reviewed previous studies about patient‐specific simulations and navigation systems for PN. Recently, image reconstruction technology has developed, and commercial software that converts two‐dimensional images into 3D images has become available. Many urologists are now able to view 3DVR images when preparing for PN. Surgical simulations based on 3DVR images can change surgical plans and improve surgical outcomes, and are useful during patient consultations. Patient‐specific simulators that are capable of simulating surgical procedures, the gold‐standard form of patient‐specific simulations, have also been reported. Besides VR, 3D printing is also useful for understanding patient‐specific information. Some studies have reported simulation and navigation systems for PN based on solid 3D models. Patient‐specific simulations are a form of preoperative preparation, whereas patient‐specific navigation is used intraoperatively. Navigation‐assisted PN procedures using 3DVR images have become increasingly common, especially in robotic surgery. Some studies found that these systems produced improvements in surgical outcomes. Once its accuracy has been confirmed, it is hoped that this technology will spread further and become more generalized.
Success of transmetatarsal amputation for limb salvage in patients with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Truong David H. , Ngoo Anthony K. , Tsai Shirling , Yang Anna K. , Wukich Dane K. , Lavery Lawrence A.
Published: August 2023

Limb salvage is a difficult path for patients to travel as there is no guarantee of the outcome, often the major factor is perfusion. For patients who underwent transmetatarsal amputation (TMA), success rate is crucial as the next option is most likely a major amputation. We performed a 10 years (2010–2020) retrospective review of patients that underwent a TMA and had an angiogram or computed tomography angiography (CTA) perioperatively at the Dallas VA Medical Center. Failure after TMA was defined as a patient requiring a proximal amputation within 1 year. There were 125 TMAs performed between 2010 and 2020 at the institution. Forty‐four (35.2%) patients had an angiogram/CTA peri‐operative and met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen subjects (38.6%) had a higher level of amputation. Of the 17 failures, 2 (11.8%) patients had no patent vessel runoff to the foot, 9 (52.9%) had one vessel, 4 (23.5%) had two vessels, and 2 (11.8%) had three vessels runoff. One vessel runoff to the foot yielded a high rate of poor outcomes (56.3%) defined as a higher level of amputation. Two or more vessels runoff to the foot had over 75% success of limb salvage with a TMA.
The novel HLA‐DPB1*02:02:07 allele identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Wang Hou‐cai , Ma Ru‐ye , Zhai Hui‐li , Zheng Zhong‐zheng , Wei Rong
Published: August 2023

HLA‐DPB1*02:02:07 differs from HLA‐DPB1*02:02:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 2.
Integrating Athletic Trainers in Esports Healthcare
Authors: Wood Tyler A. , Grahovec Nicholas E. , Sanfilippo Catrina M.
Published: August 2023

Esports’ increasing popularity has led to esport athletes receiving similar healthcare to traditional athletes. Thus, this study aims to identify how athletic trainers have been integrated into the esports healthcare team and identify the attitudes of athletic trainers toward esports through a novel online survey. Of the 151 responses received, 13 reported experiences with esports, and they identified common injuries and explained how their skills were utilized; 138 reported no experience with esports and were divided based on positive, neutral, or negative sentiment. More information should be disseminated to athletic trainers on the uniqueness of esport activity.
Modular architecture facilitates noise-driven control of synchrony in neuronal networks
Authors: Yamamoto Hideaki , Spitzner F. Paul , Takemuro Taiki , Buendía Victor , Murota Hakuba , Morante Carla , Konno Tomohiro , Sato Shigeo , Hirano-Iwata Ayumi , Levina Anna , Priesemann Viola , Muñoz Miguel A. , Zierenberg Johannes , Soriano Jordi
Published: August 2023

High-level information processing in the mammalian cortex requires both segregated processing in specialized circuits and integration across multiple circuits. One possible way to implement these seemingly opposing demands is by flexibly switching between states with different levels of synchrony. However, the mechanisms behind the control of complex synchronization patterns in neuronal networks remain elusive. Here, we use precision neuroengineering to manipulate and stimulate networks of cortical neurons in vitro, in combination with an in silico model of spiking neurons and a mesoscopic model of stochastically coupled modules to show that (i) a modular architecture enhances the sensitivity of the network to noise delivered as external asynchronous stimulation and that (ii) the persistent depletion of synaptic resources in stimulated neurons is the underlying mechanism for this effect. Together, our results demonstrate that the inherent dynamical state in structured networks of excitable units is determined by both its modular architecture and the properties of the external inputs.
Evolutionary metabolomics of specialized metabolism diversification in the genus
Nicotiana
highlights
N-
acylnornicotine innovations
Authors: Elser David , Pflieger David , Villette Claire , Moegle Baptiste , Miesch Laurence , Gaquerel Emmanuel
Published: August 2023

Specialized metabolite (SM) diversification is a core process to plants’ adaptation to diverse ecological niches. Here, we implemented a computational mass spectrometry–based metabolomics approach to exploring SM diversification in tissues of 20 species covering
Nicotiana
phylogenetics sections. To markedly increase metabolite annotation, we created a large in silico fragmentation database, comprising >1 million structures, and scripts for connecting class prediction to consensus substructures. Together, the approach provides an unprecedented cartography of SM diversity and section-specific innovations in this genus. As a case study and in combination with nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry imaging, we explored the distribution of
N-
acylnornicotines, alkaloids predicted to be specific to
Repandae
allopolyploids, and revealed their prevalence in the genus, albeit at much lower magnitude, as well as a greater structural diversity than previously thought. Together, the data integration approaches provided here should act as a resource for future research in plant SM evolution.
Biological diversification linked to environmental stabilization following the Sturtian Snowball glaciation
Authors: Bowyer Fred T. , Krause Alexander J. , Song Yafang , Huang Kang-Jun , Fu Yong , Shen Bing , Li Jin , Zhu Xiang-Kun , Kipp Michael A. , van Maldegem Lennart M. , Brocks Jochen J. , Shields Graham A. , Le Hir Guillaume , Mills Benjamin J. W. , Poulton Simon W.
Published: August 2023

The body fossil and biomarker records hint at an increase in biotic complexity between the two Cryogenian Snowball Earth episodes (ca. 661 million to ≤650 million years ago). Oxygen and nutrient availability can promote biotic complexity, but nutrient (particularly phosphorus) and redox dynamics across this interval remain poorly understood. Here, we present high-resolution paleoredox and phosphorus phase association data from multiple globally distributed drill core records through the non-glacial interval. These data are first correlated regionally by litho- and chemostratigraphy, and then calibrated within a series of global chronostratigraphic frameworks. The combined data show that regional differences in postglacial redox stabilization were partly controlled by the intensity of phosphorus recycling from marine sediments. The apparent increase in biotic complexity followed a global transition to more stable and less reducing conditions in shallow to mid-depth marine environments and occurred within a tolerable climatic window during progressive cooling after post-Snowball super-greenhouse conditions.
High-stretchability and low-hysteresis strain sensors using origami-inspired 3D mesostructures
Authors: Huang Xinghao , Liu Liangshu , Lin Yung Hsin , Feng Rui , Shen Yiyang , Chang Yuanning , Zhao Hangbo
Published: August 2023

Stretchable strain sensors are essential for various applications such as wearable electronics, prosthetics, and soft robotics. Strain sensors with high strain range, minimal hysteresis, and fast response speed are highly desirable for accurate measurements of large and dynamic deformations of soft bodies. Current stretchable strain sensors mostly rely on deformable conducting materials, which often have difficulties in achieving these properties simultaneously. In this study, we introduce capacitive strain sensor concepts based on origami-inspired three-dimensional mesoscale electrodes formed by a mechanically guided assembly process. These sensors exhibit up to 200% stretchability with 1.2% degree of hysteresis, <22 ms response time, small sensing area (~5 mm
2
), and directional strain responses. To showcase potential applications, we demonstrate the use of distributed strain sensors for measuring multimodal deformations of a soft continuum arm.
New Late Cretaceous paleomagnetic and geochronologic results from the southern Qiangtang Terrane: Contributions to the reliability of redbed paleomagnetic datasets from the Tibetan Plateau and shape of the Qiangtang Terrane
Authors: Ma Jiahui , Yang Tianshui , Peng Wenxiao , Bian Weiwei , Wang Suo , Han Fei , Liang Jiacheng , Jiao Xianwei , Jin Jingjie , Zhang Shihong , Wu Huaichun , Li Haiyan , Ma Yiming
Published: August 2023

To better clarify the reliability of redbed paleomagnetic datasets from the Tibetan Plateau and shape of the Qiangtang Terrane (QT) prior to the India-Asia collision, a combined paleomagnetic and detrital zircon U-Pb geochronologic study is conducted on the Upper Cretaceous Abushan Formation (Fm) redbeds, dated to be within 89.1−83.6 Ma, in the Anduo area. The tilt-corrected grand mean direction for 37 sites is Ds = 0.9°, Is = +36.4°, k = 43.6, α95 = 3.6°, which provides a paleopole at 78.2°N, 266.8°E (A95 = 3.6°), corresponding to a paleolatitude of 20.5° ± 3.6°N for the study area (32.3°N, 91.4°E). Reliable demagnetization curves, positive fold, and conglomerate tests support the interpretation that characteristic remanent magnetization directions recorded primary magnetizations carried by detrital hematite and did not suffer from the influence of distortional strains. Our paleomagnetic results indicate that the mean inclination observed from the southwest dipping limb (Is = +44.2°) is clearly steeper than that from the north dipping limb (Is = +34.2°). The results of syntectonic-sedimentation-correction and the fluvial gravel deposits present in the Abushan Fm redbeds sampled support the contention that the apparent inclination discrepancy is attributed to the syntectonic growth strata and that the paleomagnetic datasets observed from two limbs of folds are still reliable. Furthermore, reliable Late Cretaceous paleomagnetic datasets show that the shape of the QT west of the Eastern Himalaya Syntaxis (EHS) during the Late Cretaceous was similar to its present-day relatively E-W alignment, and that around the EHS, its shape changed from the Late Cretaceous NE-SW alignment to the present-day approximately NW-SE alignment.
IMPLEMENTATION OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF INNOVATIONS SIDE BY SIDE: CASE OF SMEs IN FINLAND
Authors: TOHMO TIMO , STORHAMMAR ESA , LITTUNEN HANNU
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study is to analyse how firms combining the use of all types of innovation during a certain period differ from other firms. Zhang (2022) argues that side-by-side innovation practices are understudied in the innovation literature. The paper is based on the OECD typology of innovation (product, process, marketing and organisational). This study offers a new and timely perspective on the innovation literature by examining firms’ side-by-side innovation practices, which are understudied in the innovation literature. The paper is based on data from 387 Finnish SMEs and analyses the factors related to the innovativeness of SMEs. The research provides comprehensive information on how different factors contribute to the emergence of SME innovation practices and create competitive combinations of their resources in the form of side-by-side implementation of different types of innovation.
Challenges to Thailand’s Negotiating Strategy in the Thai–China High-Speed Railway Project
Authors: LERTPUSIT Sivarin , SUVAKANTA Pittaya
Published: August 2023

The Thai-China High-Speed Railway (HSR) project that connects Thailand, Laos and China is part of the Thai domestic strategy and China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Thailand aims to become a regional logistic hub, while China plans to expand her connectivity with Southeast Asia. Approved in 2010, the project started construction in December 2017. Aside from the domestic political conflict, the HSR project was delayed by Thailand’s attempt to negotiate with China.
The continuation of the Mull Dyke Swarm into the Southern North Sea
Authors: Carver Francesca , Cartwright Joe , McGrandle Andy , Kirkham Chris , Pryce Evan
Published: August 2023

We present new geophysical observations of the Mull Dyke Swarm in the Southern North Sea. Two- and three-dimensional seismic reflection and aeromagnetic data were used to map the dykes. The three main dyke groups recognized onshore (Cleveland, Blyth and Hawick–Acklington) are found to extend to varying distances into the North Sea, crossing a number of major crustal-scale fault zones and domain boundaries, with almost no reorientation. The Blyth Dyke Group extends furthest, for a distance of 672 km from the source on Mull. The seismic data show extensive development of pit chain craters above the upper tips of these dykes, which can be approximately dated to the late Paleocene from the ages of crater fills. Volumetric estimates are made of the intrusive volumes associated with each group, ranging from 90 to 202 km
3
. These three main axes of intrusion probably formed in different intrusive events within a
c.
1 myr period, from 59 to 58 Ma, during magnetic chron C26R.
GJFusion: A Channel-Level Correlation Construction Method for Multimodal Physiological Signal Fusion
Authors: Huang Wuliang , Chen Yiqiang , Jiang Xinlong , Zhang Teng , Chen Qian
Published: August 2023

Physiological signal based ubiquitous computing has garnered significant attention. However, the heterogeneity among multimodal physiological signals poses a critical challenge to practical applications. To traverse this heterogeneity gap, recent studies have focused on establishing inter-modality correlations. Early works only consider coarse-level correlations between the embeddings of each modality. More recent graph-based approaches incorporate prior knowledge-based correlations, although they may not be entirely accurate. In this article, we propose the Graph Joint Fusion (GJFusion) network, which leverages channel-level inter-modality correlations based on a graph joint to mitigate the heterogeneous gap. Our proposed GJFusion first represents each modality as a graph, with each vertex corresponding to a signal channel, and the edges denoting their functional connectivity. We then join each modality by constructing inter-modality correlations for each salient channel using a sampling-based matching method. Discarded channels are transformed into a virtual vertex through a lightweight pooling operation. Subsequently, the fusion network integrates intra- and inter-modality features, enabling multimodal physiological signal fusion. To validate the effectiveness of our method, we select emotional state recognition as the downstream task and conduct comprehensive experiments on two benchmark datasets. The results demonstrate that our proposed GJFusion network surpasses the latest state-of-the-art methods, achieving relative accuracy improvements of 1.22% and 0.81% on the DEAP and MAHNOB-HCI datasets, respectively. Furthermore, visualization experiments of the salient brain regions reveal the presence of interpretable knowledge within the proposed GJFusion model.
Dual effects of the small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ current on human atrial electrophysiology and Ca2+-driven arrhythmogenesis: an in silico study
Authors: Herrera Nathaniel T. , Zhang Xianwei , Ni Haibo , Maleckar Mary M. , Heijman Jordi , Dobrev Dobromir , Grandi Eleonora , Morotti Stefano
Published: August 2023

Using our established framework for human atrial myocyte simulations, we investigated the role of the small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ current ( ISK) in the regulation of cell function and the development of Ca2+-driven arrhythmias. We found that ISK inhibition, a promising atrial-selective pharmacological strategy against atrial fibrillation, counteracts the reentry-promoting abbreviation of atrial refractoriness, but renders human atrial myocytes more vulnerable to delayed afterdepolarizations, thus potentially increasing the propensity for ectopic (triggered) activity.
Development of Gluten-Free Cake for Improving Textural and Sensory Characteristics with Chia Flour
Authors: Marnilo Sepideh Moradi , Yarmand Mohammad Saeed , Salami Maryam , Aliyari Mohammad Amin , Emam-Djomeh Zahra , Mostafavi Yasaman Sadat
Published: August 2023

Lack of gluten affects the quality of gluten-free (GF) cake. Mainly due to the ingredients used and their characteristics, GF cake has numerous drawbacks such as unsatisfactory texture. The present study determines the influence of different percentages of chia seed flour and xanthan gum on the consumer aspects and also the physical quality of rice/sweet potato flour-based gluten-free (GF) cakes by adding xanthan gum. A composite central design (CCD) was applied to optimize the levels of effects of ratio of rice/sweet potato flours, chia seed flour concentration, and xanthan gum concentration on the textural and sensory properties. The results of optimization analysis observed that the best formulation was prepared from ratio of rice to sweet potato flours of 60 to 40%

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, chia seed flour of 2.5%

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, and xanthan gum of 0.03%

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as optimum point. Also, one sample

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–test results indicated that the experimental values of responses were close to predicted ones and confirmed them. The textural, physical, and also sensory properties showed that adding whole chia seed flour led to increase the hardness and a reduction in the specific volume of the cakes. The presence of xanthan gum was essential to soften the texture of the cake. In final, it can be stated that whole chia seed flour with suitable quality and healthy characteristics can be utilized as a good alternative ingredient to prepare various gluten-free products.
Research Progress on the Hypoglycemic Effects and Mechanisms of Action of Momordica charantia polysaccharide
Authors: Liu Jinshen , Lei Yuxin , Guo Mingyi , Wang Linhong
Published: August 2023

With the improvement of living standards, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes is increasing, leading to diabetes-related expenditures reaching billions of dollars. Finding a simple, convenient, effective, and long-lasting drug for the treatment of diabetes is urgent. Bitter melon has a history of thousands of years of consumption and medicinal use in China, with numerous health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of diabetes, promotion of appetite, improvement of eyesight, aid in digestion, detoxification, and diuretic effects, earning it the title of “medicinal vegetable.” Momordica charantia polysaccharide (MCP) is a type of heteropolysaccharide extracted from bitter melon fruit, which is an important component of bitter melon and has multiple biological functions, particularly in the treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. This article summarizes the research results on the use of MCP in the treatment of diabetes over the past 20 years, using data from various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, Springer, Wiley, ACS, and CNKI, as well as doctoral and master’s theses. The article discusses the most commonly used methods and techniques for extracting, isolating, and purifying MCP. It also explores the extraction methods, molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and structural characteristics of MCP and provides a detailed account of the hypoglycemic effects of MCP in cell models, animal models, and human experiments. This review lays the foundation for the further development and application of MCP.
Evaluating Low HER2 Status in Invasive Breast Carcinoma via HER2 Immunohistochemistry, with HER2 FISH Correlation: A Cohort of 112 Patients
Authors: Ardor Gokce Deniz , Komforti Miglena K. , Hanna Helena , Ibanoglu Onur , Lochala Abigail , Nassar Aziza
Published: August 2023

Introduction. Recent trials demonstrated clinically significant benefits in HER2-nonamplified breast cancer with HER2-low expression using novel anti-HER2 antibody-drug conjugates. Thus, HER2-low breast cancer was proposed as a separate diagnostic entity. Herein, we reclassify HER2-negative cancers according to the new HER2-low category using a modified system and further investigate HER2-very-low expression. Methods. 114 HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC)-negative invasive breast tumors were identified from the pathology database of Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, between January 2019 and August 2022. Two blinded breast pathologists (BP) independently rescored HER2 IHC slides at 200x and 400x magnification. Discordant cases between the two BPs were rescored together. The most recent 2018 ASCO/CAP HER2 scoring criteria were used. HER2 (0) was subdivided into HER2 (absent) and HER2 (very low). HER2 FISH testing was performed in all cases. Results. The cohort comprised of 38 (33.3%) HER2 (0) and 76 (66.7%) HER2 (1+) tumors. The first round of rescoring at 200x and 400x magnification resulted in 17 (14.9%) HER2 (absent), 31 (27.2%) HER2 (very low), and 64 (56.2%) HER2 (1+) and 2 (1.8%) HER2 (2+) tumors by BP1 and 20 (17.5%) HER2 (absent), 33 (28.9%) HER2 (very low), and 61 (53.5%) HER2 (1+) tumors by BP2. The combined final rescoring by BP1 and BP2 was as follows: 15 (13.2%) HER2 (absent), 35 (30.7%) HER2 (very low), 63 (55.3%) HER2 (1+), and 1 (0.9%) HER2 (2+) cases. A comparison of the first round of rescoring between two BPs showed substantial agreement with Cohen’s kappa value of 0.67. Both comparisons of first rescoring by BP1 and by BP2 to combined final rescoring showed almost perfect agreement with Cohen’s kappa value of 0.83.Follow-up FISH studies showed one amplified tumor. Conclusion. Our data support the need for finer granularity, classification, and understanding of HER2-low breast cancers. We also show that reproducibility between trained BP can be obtained, albeit with scoring at high power and low threshold for showing challenging interpretations.
Reproductive Factors in the Risk of Bladder Cancer and Upper Urinary Tract Cancer: The Japan Public Health Center-Based Prospective Study
Authors: Minami Tetsuji , Inoue Manami , Yamaji Taiki , Iwasaki Motoki , Tsugane Shoichiro , Sawada Norie
Published: August 2023

Background:

Reproductive factors are hypothesized to play a role in the incidence of bladder cancer and upper urinary tract cancer (UUTC, together, urothelial cancer). However, evidence regarding these associations is limited, particularly in Asian populations.

Methods:

We analyzed data from 55,882 females ages 40 to 69 years, and performed Cox proportional hazards regression analyses with three types of adjustment, namely age; reproductive factor of interest and covariates in addition to age (conventional model); and other reproductive factors in addition to the multivariable adjusted model (reproductive model).

Results:

During an average of 20.2 years of follow-up, 194 urothelial cancer cases (145 bladder cancer cases and 49 UUTC cases) were identified. Early age at natural menopause (<44 years, compared with 49–51 years) increased bladder cancer risk in the reproductive model (HR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.04–4.20). An association between urothelial cancer/bladder cancer and age at menopause, including both natural and surgical/induced, was significant in the reproductive model (HR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.09–2.77; and HR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.15–3.28, respectively). Early age at natural menopause was suggested to increase urothelial cancer risk in the reproductive model (HR, 1.78; 95% CI, 0.93–3.42).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest a significant association between age at menopause and incidence of urothelial cancer/bladder cancer among Asian populations. This study aids understanding the role of reproductive factors in urothelial cancer/bladder cancer incidence.

Impact:

In Japanese populations, age at menopause is suggested to be associated with urothelial cancer/bladder cancer incidence, especially regarding early natural menopause.