bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upgrading Voxel-wise Encoding Model via Integrated Integration over Features and Brain Networks
Authors: Li Yuanning , Yang Huzheng , Gu Shi
Published: November 2022

A central goal of cognitive neuroscience is to build computational models that predict and explain neural responses to sensory inputs in the cortex. Recent studies attempt to borrow the representation power of deep neural networks (DNN) to predict the brain response and suggest a correspondence between artificial and biological neural networks in their feature representations. However, each DNN instance is often specified for certain computer vision tasks which may not lead to optimal brain correspondence. On the other hand, these voxel-wise encoding models focus on predicting single voxels independently, while brain activity often demonstrates rich and dynamic structures at the population and network levels during cognitive tasks. These two important properties suggest that we can improve the prevalent voxel-wise encoding models by integrating features from DNN models and by integrating cortical network information into the models. In this work, we propose a new unified framework that addresses these two aspects through DNN feature-level ensemble learning and brain atlas-level model integration. Our proposed approach leads to superior performance over previous DNN-based encoding models in predicting whole-brain neural activity during naturalistic video perception. Furthermore, our unified framework also facilitates the investigation of the brain’s neural representation mechanism by accurately predicting the neural response corresponding to complex visual concepts.
Widespread regulatory specificities between transcriptional corepressors and enhancers inDrosophila
Authors: Jacobs Jelle , Pagani Michaela , Wenzl Christoph , Stark Alexander
Published: November 2022

Animal development and homeostasis critically depend on the accurate regulation of gene transcription, which includes the silencing of genes that should not be expressed. Repression is mediated by a specific class of transcription factors (TFs) termed repressors that, via the recruitment of co-repressors (CoRs), can dominantly prevent transcription, even in the presence of activating cues. However, the relationship between specific CoRs and enhancers has remained unclear. Here, we used functional genomics to uncover regulatory specificities between CoRs and enhancers. We show that enhancers can typically be repressed by only a subset of CoRs. Enhancers classified by CoR sensitivity also show distinct biological functions and endogenous chromatin features. Moreover, enhancers that are sensitive or resistant to silencing by specific CoRs differ in TF motif content, and their sensitivity to CoRs can be predicted based on TF motif content. Finally, we identified and validated specific TF motifs that have a direct impact on enhancers sensitivity or resistance towards specific CoRs, using large scale motif mutagenesis and addition experiments.

This study reveals the existence of TF motif-based regulatory rules that coordinate CoRs-enhancer compatibilities. These specificities between repressors and activators not only suggest that repression occurs via distinct mechanisms, but also provide an additional layer in transcriptional regulation that allows for differential repression at close genomic distances and offers multiple ways for de-repression.
Optimization of modularity during development to simplify walking control across strides
Authors: Hinnekens Elodie , Berret Bastien , Morard Estelle , Do Manh-Cuong , Barbu-Roth Marianne , Teulier Caroline
Published: November 2022

Walking in adults seems to rely on a small number of modules allowing to reduce the number of degrees of freedom effectively regulated by the central nervous system (CNS). However, the extent to which modularity evolves during development remains unknown, particularly regarding the ability to generate several strides in an optimized manner. Here we compared the modular organization of toddlers and adults during several strides of walking. We recorded the electromyographic activity of 10 bilateral (lower limbs) muscles in adults (n=12) and toddlers (n=12) during 8 gait cycles, and used non-negative matrix factorization to model the underlying modular command. While the muscular activity of all strides could be factorized into a consistent low-dimensional modular organization in adults, significantly more computational modules were needed in toddlers to account for their greater stride-by-stride variability. Activations of these modules varied more across strides and was less parsimonious in toddlers than in adults, even when balances constrained were diminished. These findings suggest that the modular control of locomotion of adults evolves as the organism develops and practices. They also suggest that new walker can flexibly activate a higher number of modules and benefit from a higher space of possible action, which could serve motor exploration.
DNA origami directed virus capsid polymorphism
Authors: Seitz Iris , Kumpula Esa-Pekka , Anaya-Plaza Eduardo , Cornelissen Jeroen J. L. M. , Linko Veikko , Huiskonen Juha T. , Kostiainen Mauri A.
Published: November 2022

Most known viruses protect their genome by encapsulating it inside a protein capsid. Viral capsids can adopt various geometries, most iconically characterized by icosahedral or helical symmetries. The assembly process of native capsids is highly cooperative and governed by the protein geometry, protein-protein as well as protein-nucleic acid interactions. Importantly, the absolute control over the size and shape of virus capsids would have imminent advantages in the development of new vaccines and delivery systems. However, tools to direct the assembly process in a programmable manner are exceedingly elusive or strictly limited to specific structures. Here, we introduce a modular approach by demonstrating DNA origami directed polymorphism of single protein subunit capsids. We achieve control over the capsid shape, size, and topology by employing user-defined DNA origami nanostructures as binding and assembly platforms for the capsid proteins. Binding assays and single-particle cryo-electron microscopy reconstruction show that the DNA origami nanoshapes are efficiently encapsulated within the capsid. Further, we observe that helical arrangement of hexameric capsomers is the preferred mode of packing, while a negative curvature of the origami structure is not well tolerated. The capsid proteins assemble on DNA origami in single or double layer configurations depending on the applied stoichiometry. In addition, the obtained viral capsid coatings are able to efficiently shield the encapsulated DNA origami from nuclease degradation and prevent the structures from aggregation. Therefore, these findings may in addition find direct implementations in DNA nanotechnology-based bioengineering by paving the way for the next-generation cargo protection and targeting strategies.
Rescue of the increased susceptibility to Mild Chronic Oxidative Stress of iNeurons carrying the MAPT Chromosome 17q21.3 H1/H1 risk allele by FDA-approved compounds
Authors: Sadikoglou E , Domingo-Fernández D , Savytska N , Fernandes N , Rizzu P , Illarionova A , Strauß T , Schwarz SC , Kodamullil A , Höglinger GU , Dhingra A , Heutink P
Published: November 2022

The microtubule associated protein tau (MAPT) chromosome 17q21.31 locus lies within a region of high linkage disequilibrium (LD) conferring two extended haplotypes commonly referred to as H1 and H2. The major haplotype, H1 has been genetically associated with an increased risk for multiple neurodegenerative disorders, including Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD),APOEε4-negative Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The mechanism causing this increased risk is largely unknown. Here, we investigated the role of Mild Chronic Oxidative Stress (MCOS) in neurogenin 2 (NGN2) induced neurons (iNeurons) derived from iPS (induced pluripotent stem cells) from carriers of both haplotypes. We identified that iNeurons of the H1 homozygous haplotype showed an increased susceptibility to MCOS compared to homozygous H2 carriers, leading to cell death through ferroptosis. We performed a cellular screen in H1 iNeurons using a FDA-approved Drug Library and identified candidate molecules that rescued the increased susceptibility to MCOS and prevented ferroptosis in H1 iNeurons.

Highlights

Mild Chronic Oxidative Stress induces neurotoxicity via ferroptosis on iNGN2 neurons

Axonal degeneration, disordered microtubules, blebs precede neurotoxicity

MAPT-17q21.3 locus H1/H1, risk allele for NDD is more vulnerable to MCOS

FDA-approved drugs reverse MCOS induced ferroptosis on H1/H1 risk allele

Abstract Figure
Cryo-EM Structures of Amyloid-β Filaments With the Arctic Mutation (E22G) From Human and Mouse Brains
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Wenjuan , Murzin Alexey G. , Schweighauser Manuel , Huang Melissa , Lövestam Sofia , Peak-Chew Sew Y. , Saito Takashi , Saido Takaomi C. , Macdonald Jennifer , Lavenir Isabelle , Ghetti Bernardino , Graff Caroline , Kumar Amit , Nordberg Agneta , Goedert Michel , Scheres Sjors H.W.
Published: November 2022

The Arctic mutation, encoding E693G in theamyloid precursor protein (APP)gene [E22G in amyloid-β (Aβ)], causes dominantly inherited Alzheimer’s disease. Here we report the high-resolution cryo-EM structures of Aβ filaments from the frontal cortex of a previously described case (AβPParc1) with the Arctic mutation. Most filaments consist of two pairs of non-identical protofilaments that comprise residues V12-V40 (human Arctic fold A) and E11-G37 (human Arctic fold B). They have a substructure (residues F20-G37) in common with the folds of type I and type II Aβ42. When compared to the structures of wild-type Aβ42 filaments, there are subtle conformational changes in the human Arctic folds, because of the lack of a side chain at G22, which may strengthen hydrogen bonding between mutant Aβ molecules and promote filament formation. A minority of Aβ42 filaments of type II was also present, as were tau paired helical filaments. In addition, we report the cryo-EM structures of Aβ filaments with the Arctic mutation from mouse knock-in lineAppNL-G-F. Most filaments are made of two identical mutant protofilaments that extend from D1-G37 (murine Arctic fold). In a minority of filaments, two dimeric folds pack against each other in an anti-parallel fashion. The murine Arctic fold differs from the human Arctic folds, but shares some substructure.
Molecular characterization of a DyP-type peroxidase from the human parasitic cestodeEchinococcus multilocularis
Authors: Ulrich Johannes , Brehm Klaus
Published: November 2022

The lethal zoonosis alveolar echinococcosis is caused by the metacestode larval stage of the tapewormEchinococcus multilocularis. During the chronic phase of the disease, metacestode tissue is growing infiltratively into liver tissue and provokes an immunes response of the host. Mechanisms of parasite defence against reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are produced during parasite growth and host immune responses, are incompletely understood so far. We herein describe the characterization of anEchinococcusDyp (dye decolorizing) – type peroxidase, EmDyp, family members of which are typically expressed by bacteria and fungi. EmDyp showed significant homologies to bacterial and fungal Dyp peroxidases and recombinantly expressed EmDyp displayed profound enzymatic activity towards different substrates such as 3,3’-diaminobenzidine or luminol. Furthermore, although structurally not being related to classical catalases, EmDyp showed catalase activity in respective activity gels.In situhybridization experiments showed expression of the EmDyp expressing gene,emdyp, in the germinal layer of the metacestode as well as in the posterior region of the protoscolex, both in differentiated and in germinative (stem) cells of the parasite. Interestingly, RT-qPCR experiments demonstrated thatemdypexpression is induced in the metacestode upon growth under aerobic conditions. Particularly high expression ofemdypwas observed underin vivogrowth conditions in jirds within the liver. These data indicate a role of EmDyp in the defence of the metacestode against host- and/or parasite-derived ROS during chronic alveolar echinococcosis. Since Dyp-type peroxidases are not encoded on the genomes of mammalian hosts forE. multilocularis, EmDyp might be used as a target molecule for developing novel therapeutics against the parasite.
New Zealand: Political Developments and Data in 2021
Authors: BARKER FIONA
Published: November 2022

After the successful adoption of a COVID‐19 elimination strategy in 2020, in 2021 the New Zealand government introduced strategies to limit and mitigate the spread of the virus, as the elimination strategy looked increasingly unsustainable. It rolled out vaccines, imposed vaccine mandates and grappled with the complexities of the largely closed border. Despite the continuing pandemic demands, the Labour government, now with an outright majority after the General Election in late 2020, attempted to make progress on elements of its reform agenda in health, housing, water, transport and some social areas. Opposition to these reforms, which had a centralizing thrust and expanded in limited ways the scope of Māori participation in governance and decision‐making, was swift. By the end of the year, emerging debates about vaccine mandates and public weariness with lockdowns contributed to growing discontent with the government's COVID‐19 policies.
Triangulation of evidence on immigration and rates of alcohol use disorder in Sweden: Evidence of acculturation effects
Authors: Chartier Karen G. , Kendler Kenneth S. , Ohlsson Henrik , Sundquist Kristina , Sundquist Jan
Published: November 2022

Background

This study aimed to determine the robustness of the impact of immigration on risk for alcohol use disorder (AUD) using different measures, designs, and immigrant regional cohorts.

Methods

The analytic sample included all individuals born between 1950 and 1990 and registered in Sweden from 1973 to 2017. Using Cox regression models, we examined the risk for AUD from Swedish nationwide registries in immigrants to Sweden from seven geographical regions: Africa, Asia and Oceania, Eastern Europe, Finland, Latin America and the Caribbean, Middle East/North Africa, and Western countries. We assessed greater exposure to Swedish culture, which we interpreted as increasing acculturation, by (i) comparing first‐generation immigrants and their children with no and one native Swedish parent and (ii) examining age at immigration. The baseline comparison group was the native Swedish population. We also examined AUD risk in first‐generation sibling pairs discordant for their age at immigration.

Results

In nearly all immigrant cohorts in Sweden, increasing degrees of acculturation, as assessed by both our variables, were associated with rates of AUD that approached those of the Swedish population. These findings occurred in both men and women and both regional cohorts whose first‐generation immigrants had lower and higher levels of AUD than native‐born Swedes. For most cohorts, the rates of change with acculturation were greater in women than in men. In sibling pairs from most regions, the sibling who was younger at immigration had a higher rate of AUD.

Conclusions

An examination of both sexes and two different proxies for acculturation provides consistent support for socio‐cultural influences on AUD risk. Our co‐sibling analyses suggest that a meaningful proportion of this effect is likely to be causal in nature.
The rise of robots and the fall of cost stickiness: Evidence from Chinese manufacturers
Authors: Jia Wanjiao , Yang Ting , Zhang Xin
Published: November 2022

Industrial robots are increasingly used to perform tasks traditionally assigned to humans. Using a sample of Chinese manufacturers, we examine the impact of robot adoption on firm cost stickiness. We find that robot adoption is associated with less sticky costs. The negative impact of robot adoption on cost stickiness is particularly meaningful for state‐owned enterprises and firms with higher labour costs, and becomes significantly stronger after the enactment of China's Labour Contract Law, which significantly increases labour adjustment costs. These findings are consistent with the conjecture that the adoption of robots allows firms to reduce their overall labour adjustment costs.
Influencing factors of meaning in life in patients with advanced lung cancer undergoing radiochemotherapy: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Li Yumei , Zhang Meirong , Yang Chunhong , Luo Yifan
Published: November 2022

Aim

To examine the factors that influence meaning in life (MiL) in patients with advanced lung cancer who are undergoing radiochemotherapy.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, multivariate stepwise regression analysis and structural equation modeling were used to examine factors influencing MiL in 231 patients with lung cancer in an oncology department of a tertiary hospital in China. Their mood state, family care, social support, and psychological distress were measured.

Results

Sex, marital status, and family income significantly affected MiL (p < .05). MiL was significantly correlated (p < .01) with psychological distress (r = −.203), and most significantly (F = 66.883, p < .01; 46.2% of MiL) with mood state (r = −.631), family care (r = .384), and social support (r = .410).

Conclusion

To enhance MiL, nurses need to consider patients’ mood states and family/social support, as well as tailor patient care toward different sexes and backgrounds. Clinical staff should pay attention to the psychological changes, family care, and social support of patients with advanced lung cancer.
The analysis of two historic fired artificial stonewares: Coade stone (18th–19th centuries) and a recent discovery from Oxnead Hall, Norfolk (16th–17th centuries)
Authors: Brooke Christopher J. , Edwards Howell G. M. , Košek Filip , Jehlička Jan , Stanford Caroline , Champion Matthew J.
Published: November 2022

Coade stone has played a significant role in architectural and ornamental design since its inception in the early 18th century. It is well known that earlier, experimental, architectural stoneware products existed, but few of these have been studied in detail scientifically, and only one major analytical study of Coade stone has appeared in the literature. This paper presents a new spectroscopic analysis of Coade stone along with that of a newly discovered sample from Oxnead Hall in Norfolk where it known that Sir Clement Paston experimented with artificial stone in the late 16th century. The results demonstrate that it is possible to differentiate between the two variants on the basis of both the raw materials used and the different phases formed in their production processes.
Rare case of a right Bochdalek hernia with retroperitoneal prolapse of organs into the thoracic cavity in infancy: A case report
Authors: Nakagawa Yoichi , Uchida Hiroo , Hinoki Akinari , Shirota Chiyoe , Sumida Wataru , Makita Satoshi , Amano Hizuru , Masamune Okamoto , Takimoto Aitaro , Ogata Seiya , Takada Shunya , Kato Daiki , Gohda Yousuke , Guo Yaohui
Published: November 2022

We report an extremely rare case of a right Bochdalek hernia with a sac, in which the retroperitoneal and intra‐abdominal organs prolapsed into the thoracic cavity at the same time. The patient was a 7‐month‐old female with no comorbidities. She presented with cough and fever, and chest radiography revealed a right diaphragmatic hernia. Computed tomography showed that the right kidney, intestine, colon, and liver had prolapsed into the thoracic cavity. The patient underwent thoracoscopic surgery, which showed that the abdominal and retroperitoneal organs prolapsed into the thoracic cavity through the Bochdalek hernia. The herniated organs were spontaneously reduced using thoracoscopic insufflation. The defect hole was closed with artificial mesh. We adopted a thoracoscopic approach, in terms of easy reduction of herniated organs and accurate evaluation of the hernia orifice, which was useful.
La Théorie Critique De La Race, Un Outil De Lecture Des Relations Ambiguës Entre Les Communautés Francophones En Situation Minoritaire Et Leurs Immigrants Noirs Francophones
Authors: Sall Leyla , Zellama Faiçal , Piquemal Nathalie , Huot Suzanne
Published: November 2022

In becoming host communities for Francophone immigrants in the early 2000s, Canada's Francophone minority communities (FMCs) are facing the test of moving away from a predominant ethnic nationalism to an inclusive civic nationalism. The reception and integration of Black and Francophone immigrants is therefore a relevant indicator of the success of this test. Drawing on critical race theory and bricolage methodology, we reconstruct the ambiguous relationship between FMCs and their Black francophone immigrants who are both invited into French society and discriminated against.
Corticosteroid nasal irrigation as early treatment of olfactory dysfunction in COVID‐19: A prospective randomised controlled trial
Authors: Tragoonrungsea Jidapa , Tangbumrungtham Navarat , Nitivanichsakul Tuleeya , Roongpuvapaht Boonsam , Tanjararak Kangsadarn
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of corticosteroid irrigation compared to saline to no nasal irrigation in COVID‐19 patients with olfactory loss.

Design and Setting

A randomised controlled study was conducted at the Otolaryngology‐Head & Neck Surgery Department, Ramathibodi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University.

Participants

Two hundred thirty‐seven COVID‐19 participants with a new‐onset smell loss were recruited into the study. Two hundred twenty‐two participants met the inclusion criteria and were randomised into three groups: corticosteroid irrigation, saline irrigation and no treatment.

Main Outcome Measures

The primary outcome was the mean difference in the smell sensation score among the groups after treatment at 1, 2 and 6 weeks. The secondary outcomes measurements included (1) a self‐rating quality of life (QOL)‐related smell dysfunction score, (2) the change over time in smell sensation score and self‐rating QOL‐related smell dysfunction score and (3) the median time to complete recovery of smell loss.

Results

The mean differences in smell sensation scores among the three groups were not statistically significant at any follow‐up period. The mean score of self‐rating QOL‐related smell dysfunction in the corticosteroid group was significantly better than the other groups at 1 week. The change of outcome scores showed significant improvement over time, regardless of the treatments. The median time to complete smell recovery was similar: 3 weeks.

Conclusion

This study emphasised that corticosteroid nasal irrigation is not superior to saline or no nasal irrigation in restoring the sense of smell in COVID‐19‐associated olfactory loss.
Hierarchical Dirichlet and Pitman–Yor process mixtures of shifted‐scaled Dirichlet distributions for proportional data modeling
Authors: Baghdadi Ali , Manouchehri Narges , Patterson Zachary , Fan Wentao , Bouguila Nizar
Published: November 2022

In this article, first, we propose a novel unsupervised learning method based on a hierarchical Dirichlet process mixture of shifted‐scaled Dirichlet (SSD) distributions. Second, we extend it to a hierarchical Pitman–Yor process mixture of SSD distributions. The goal is to find a model that properly fits complex real‐world data. Our models are based on SSD distributions that are more flexible than Dirichlet distribution in fitting proportional data. Simultaneous data fitting (parameter estimate) and model selection (model complexity determination) are possible with the suggested methods. We applied batch and online variational inference for learning the models. The online setting allows us to feed our models with large‐scale streaming data. The effectiveness of our proposed models is evaluated by four realistic and challenging applications, namely, spam email detection, texture clustering, traffic sign detection, and vehicle detection. Experimental results demonstrate the potential of our models to fit proportional data.
Clinical evaluation of nebulized verapamil in out‐patients with pulmonary hypertension secondary to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Fahimi Fanak , Pourdowlat Guitti , Behzadnia Neda , Mostofi Sahar Sadigh , Forough Aida Sefidani , Parto Omid , Esmaeili Ayda
Published: November 2022

Objective

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with many health complications, including pulmonary hypertension (PH). Although oral calcium channel blockers have shown promising results in managing COPD‐induced PH, significant systemic side effects may limit their use in this population. Administering verapamil through nebulization can be an alternative approach. We aim to assess the possible therapeutic effects of verapamil inhalation in out‐patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to COPD.

Methods

A double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trial was conducted. Patients with PH were randomly assigned to two groups of 15 participants. The intervention group received a short‐term single dose of 10 mg nebulized verapamil (4 ampoules of 2.5 mg/ml verapamil solutions). The control group received nebulized distilled water as a placebo in addition to their standard treatment throughout the study.

Results

Systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) did not improve as a primary outcome significantly in patients receiving nebulized verapamil compared with those on placebo (p = 0.89). Spirometry results showed a significant improvement in FVC in the intervention group from 1.72 ± 0.63 to 1.85 ± 0.58 L (p = 0.00), and FEV1/FVC ratio decreased significantly after verapamil administration (p = 0.027).

Conclusion

Verapamil did not improve any of the pulmonary artery or RV parameters in patients with COPD‐associated, but it did improve SpO2 and increase FVC, which revealed us possibility of verapamil in treating V/Q mismatch. The improved gas exchange may have been due to improvements in FVC as reflected in the improved spirometry. Higher doses of verapamil may be more efficacious and can be the subject of future trials.
Structures, processes and outcomes of objective structured clinical examinations in dental education during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A scoping review
Authors: Salawu Yetunde Kemi , Stewart Derek , Daud Alaa
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) are an essential examination tool within undergraduate dental education. Fear of spread of the COVID‐19 virus led to dental institutions exploring alternative means of conducting OSCEs. The aim of this scoping review was to investigate what structures, processes and outcomes of dental OSCEs were reported during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods

This scoping review was conducted and reported adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses extension for scoping review guidelines (PRISMA‐ScR). Published literature was identified through a systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Education Resources Information Center (Eric), ProQuest and Google Scholar. Identified articles were independently reviewed by two authors (KS, AD), followed by synthesis in terms of the reported structures, processes and outcomes. Articles reporting cancellation or rescheduling were also included, extracting data on reasons and any suggestions/recommendations.

Results

The search yielded a total of 290 studies of which 239 sources were excluded after removal of duplicates, leaving 51 studies for title and abstract evaluation. Thirty‐four articles were excluded as they did not report on the topic of interest, leaving 17 for full‐text evaluation, of which nine were analysed according to the pre‐set themes. All dental OSCEs taking place (n = 6) were conducted online whilst the remaining (n = 3) were either cancelled or rescheduled. Data on structures reported specific online videoconferencing software used and provision of staff and student training. Processes on the execution of online OSCEs varied significantly from one study to the other, providing rich data on how dental institutions may carry out such assessments tailored to their need. Information regarding outcomes was sparse, as little attention was paid to the results of the students compared to pre‐pandemic, lacking investigation into reliability and validity of online dental OSCEs.

Conclusion

Dental OSCEs could be conducted online implementing well‐planned structures and processes; however, further evidence is needed to prove its reliability and validity based on outcomes. Dental institutions may need to consider alternative methods to assess practical competencies if online OSCEs are to take place.
Correlation between fracture toughness and constraint of bi‐material interfaces with different mechanical mismatches
Authors: Xiao Jinyong , Wang Guozhen , Xuan Fuzhen , Tu Shantung
Published: November 2022

In this work, the correlation between ductile fracture toughness and a new unified constraint parameter Ad* for bi‐material interfaces with different mechanical mismatches (strength and hardening mismatches) has been investigated based on finite element analysis and experimental data validation. The results show that with increasing crack depth (geometric constraint) and mechanical mismatch level (increasing undermatch or overmatch level), the J–R curves and fracture toughness JC of bi‐material interfaces decrease. The constraint parameter Ad* values of bi‐material interface cracks are basically independent of the strength and hardening mismatches. A general correlation equation between fracture toughness JC and constraint parameter Ad* has been obtained, which may be applied to prediction of fracture toughness of any specimens or components with different geometric constraints and material properties mismatches (including homogeneous materials). The prediction capability of the correlation equation has been validated by experimental fracture toughness data of cracks with different strength and hardening mismatches in dissimilar metal welded joints.
Comparative urbanism in times of Covid‐19 and beyond
Authors: Fricke Carola , Brill Frances
Published: November 2022

Living with a pandemic has transformed the everyday lives of citizens globally. For researchers engaged in qualitative comparative approaches that are contingent on travelling across borders, especially those of us living and writing in locations away from where we research, the pandemic has raised practical and methodological questions. Restricted movements and heightened border controls since March 2020 have transformed our practices as early career academics seeking to work alongside, help advance and build on the rich work within urban geography's comparative conversation. In this article, we build on the comparative tradition within urban studies and geography, reflecting on current efforts to challenge dominant paradigms within the discipline(s). We highlight the specific methodological challenges thrown up by the pandemic and address how we sought to work around potential comparative failures and traps. In particular, we focus on the implications of restricted mobilities and accesses to policy making sites for empirical research. We discuss the notions of site and event as potential entry points for studying virtual and material policy spaces, and for geographical research on urban policy making. Our paper contributes to both ongoing debates about the value and practicalities of a comparative urban agenda, and the methodological questions that reflect a re‐thinking of our relationships with sites and place, and how this impacts a more cosmopolitan, generative and grounded approach to comparative urban studies in the future.
Fabrication and characterisation of spice essential oil‐based nanoemulsions: physical, sensory and antimicrobial properties
Authors: Wang Ke , Hong Yan , Gu Zhengbiao , Cheng Li , Li Zhaofeng , Li Caiming
Published: November 2022

Spice essential oils (EOs) have been widely used in packaging, medicine and food industries due to their antimicrobial, health benefits and flavour functions. However, the strong organoleptic characteristics, non‐digestibility and high volatility have limited the application of emulsions made from a single type of spice EO. In this work, sunflower oil and spice EOs (i.e., garlic EO, ginger EO, Sichuan pepper EO) were mixed with different mass ratios (sunflower oil: spice EO = 1:0, 9:1, 5:1, 3:1, 1:1 and 0:1) as oil phase to produce various nanoemulsions. Physical, sensory and antimicrobial properties of spice EO‐based nanoemulsions were investigated considering the droplet size, turbidity, stability, colour, flavour, minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration. The results showed that the nanoemulsions prepared with a mixing ratio of 1:1 all had the minimum droplet size and the minimum PDI value, which were about 150 nm and 0.1, respectively. The temperature‐accelerated test and the gravitational stability experiment demonstrated that the mixed oil phase‐based nanoemulsions were more stable than pure spice EO phase‐based emulsions. The colour test and flavour test results showed that the type of spice EO and the mixing ratio of the mixed‐oil phase had obvious effects on the sensory properties of the emulsion. Moreover, the mixed‐oil nanoemulsions with superior stability did not impair the antimicrobial activity of the spice EOs. This study provides a guideline on the rational design of emulsion‐based systems using triacylglycerol oil and spice EOs in combination to produce nanoemulsions with superior stability, sensory property and antibacterial activity.
The strong network orientation problem
Authors: Duhamel Christophe , Santos Andréa Cynthia
Published: November 2022

This study presents models and heuristics for solving the strong network orientation problem (SNOP), which can model several tactical optimization problems of setting directions in urban networks. The objective is to set an orientation for each edge in an undirected graph such that the resulting digraph is strongly connected and the total travel distance between any pair of nodes is minimized (or maximized). Investigating tactical optimization problems such as SNOP is motivated by several challenges in urban networks due to the growth of population in urban areas, large number of daily trips, increasing price of maintaining urban networks, and the need to reduce air pollution and passive noise. Thus, a new trend is to utilize the urban networks better. In this context, we first use a multicommodity flow formulation to model the minimization problem. The maximization version is modeled by using the dual formulation of the shortest path problem. Then, scalable heuristic strategies for solving SNOP are investigated. For such purpose, we first propose basic components such as constructive heuristics, perturbations and local searches. They are combined into several metaheuristics based on local searches, multi‐start and evolutionary schemes, i.e. Multistart Local Search, Iterated Local Search (ILS), Relaxed ILS, Evolutionary Local Search (ELS), Relaxed ELS, and Variable Neighborhood Search. Computational experiments have been performed to analyze the proposed methods in terms of efficiency and quality of solutions, using grid instances and a graph from downtown Clermont‐Ferrand in France.
Family lifestyle is related to low‐income preschoolers' emotional well‐being during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ling Jiying , Kao Tsui‐Sui Annie , Robbins Lorraine B. , Wahman Charis Lauren
Published: November 2022

Problem

COVID‐19 has profoundly impacted children's behavioral and psychosocial development, especially young children from low‐income families. This study examined how caregivers' and preschoolers' lifestyle behaviors (sleep, screen time, physical activity, eating behavior) were related to preschoolers' emotional well‐being (sadness, fear, anger, and positive affect).

Methods

Using a cross‐sectional design, we recruited low‐income caregivers from Head Start organizations and the Qualtrics panel. Participants provided consent and completed an online survey.

Findings

A total of 408 caregivers (mean age = 31) participated: 17% Hispanic, 21% Black, 49% separated/single, 44% unemployed, and 39% with ≤high school education. After adjusting for demographics and preschoolers' lifestyle behaviors, caregivers' sleep disturbance was positively correlated with preschoolers' anger, fear, and sadness, while negatively related to positive affect. Similarly, caregivers' sleep time was positively correlated with preschoolers' sadness and negatively related to positive affect. Preschoolers' sleep time was negatively related to fear and positively related to positive affect. Likewise, preschoolers' physical activity was negatively correlated with fear, sadness, and positively correlated with positive affect. Additionally, preschoolers' fruit/vegetable intake was negatively associated with anger, fear, sadness, and positively associated with positive affect.

Conclusions

The identified behavior‐emotion connection provides a foundation for developing family‐based lifestyle interventions in promoting mental health among preschoolers.
A Unified Comparison of IRT‐Based Effect Sizes for DIF Investigations
Authors: Chalmers R. Philip
Published: November 2022

Several marginal effect size (ES) statistics suitable for quantifying the magnitude of differential item functioning (DIF) have been proposed in the area of item response theory; for instance, the Differential Functioning of Items and Tests (DFIT) statistics, signed and unsigned item difference in the sample statistics (SIDS, UIDS, NSIDS, and NUIDS), the standardized indices of impact, and the differential response functioning (DRF) statistics. However, the relationship between these proposed statistics has not been fully discussed, particularly with respect to population parameter definitions and recovery performance across independent samples. To address these issues, this article provides a unified presentation of competing DIF ES definitions and estimators, and evaluates the recovery efficacy of these competing estimators using a set of Monte Carlo simulation experiments. Statistical and inferential properties of the estimators are discussed, as well as future areas of research in this model‐based area of bias quantification.
Studies on rheological behavior of native and octenyl succinic anhydride modified buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) starch gel and improved flow properties thereof
Authors: Bist Yograj , Kumar Yogesh , Saxena Dharmesh Chandra
Published: November 2022

The effect of octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) esterification (1%–3% of dry starch) on powder flowability, functionality, pasting, and gel rheological properties of buckwheat starch (BS) was examined. The physical and flow properties like bulk density, tapped density, Hausner's ratio, Carr's index, cohesion index, and caking strength of starch improved significantly after esterification, indicating better flow behavior and storage stability. The solubility and swelling power were significantly increased, leading to a significant increase in peak viscosity and breakdown, while pasting temperature, setback, and final viscosity decreased. The esterification also restricted the retrogradation, which appeared as a lower hardness of retrograded gel. Starch gel prepared at 5%, 10%, and 15% concentrations showed shear thinning behavior. The dynamic shear properties obtained within the linear viscoelastic region showed weak gel behavior with a more elastic nature and were also demonstrated by the Power law.

Practical application

The OSA modifies the structure and surface of starch granules to change the physical properties which help in better powder flowability of the dried starch. The findings on powder flowability of BS may help powder manufacturers to control and design powder handling and transportation equipment by preparing non‐cohesive, non‐sticky, and flowable dried starch powder. The findings of the rheological characteristics of BS gels can be exploited in the preparation and optimization of soup premix, thickening agents, food additives, and gravies. Moreover, the OSA modified gel has a low retrogradation rate, which could be used in a product like bread and cakes.
Effects of foam‐mat drying temperature on thermodynamic properties, microstructural properties, and X‐ray diffraction of Biribá (Rollinia mucosa [Jacq.] Baill) pulp
Authors: de Souza Jhemerson Clistemis Mendonça , de Aquino Francisco Barbosa , da Costa Santos Dyego , de Lima Ferreira João Paulo , da Silva Wilton Pereira , Gomes Josivanda Palmeira , de Figueirêdo Rossana Maria Feitosa , de Melo Queiroz Alexandre José , Santiago Ângela Maria , de Lima Thalis Leandro Bezerra
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to dry the pulp of “Biribá” (Rollinia mucosa [Jacq.] Baill) using the foam‐mat drying method at the temperatures of 30°C, 40°C, 50°C, and 60°C, fit different mathematical models to the experimental data, calculate the thermodynamic properties, and analyze the powders produced for water activity, morphology, and X‐ray diffraction. The results showed that the Midilli model, for having the highest coefficients of determination and low values of mean squared deviation and chi‐square, could be selected as the most suitable to predict the drying kinetics of “biribá.” The effective diffusivity was on the order of 10−10 m2 s−1, and the Arrhenius equation evidenced dependence of this parameter with drying air temperature, which showed an activation energy of 53.47 kJ mol−1. The thermodynamic properties indicated the existence of an endergonic process. “Biribá” powders showed water activity ranging from .44 to .54 and porous, irregular, and agglomerated morphological structures, with X‐ray diffractograms characteristic of amorphous materials.

Practical applications

In this study, foam‐mat drying characteristics of “Biribá” (Rollinia mucosa [Jacq.] Baill) pulp were investigated in a food dehydrator. The effect of different temperatures on drying characteristics and thermodynamic properties, and water activity, microstructural properties and X‐ray diffraction of the powders produced was determined. This information may help to optimize the process conditions and reduce costs of processing and packaging.
Differential regulation of nucleus accumbens glutamate and GABA in obesity‐prone and obesity‐resistant rats
Authors: Vollbrecht Peter J. , Nesbitt Kathryn M. , Addis Victoria M. , Boulnemour Keenan M. , Micheli Daniel A. , Smith Kendall B. , Sandoval Darleen A. , Kennedy Robert T. , Ferrario Carrie R.
Published: November 2022

Obesity is one of the leading health concerns in the United States. Studies from human and rodent models suggest that inherent differences in the function of brain motivation centers, including the nucleus accumbens (NAc), contribute to overeating and thus obesity. For example, there are basal enhancements in the excitability of NAc GABAergic medium spiny neurons (MSN) and reductions in basal expression of AMPA‐type glutamate receptors in obesity‐prone vs obesity‐resistant rats. However, very little is known about the regulation of extracellular glutamate and GABA within the NAc of these models. Here we gave obesity‐prone and obesity‐resistant rats stable isotope‐labeled glucose (13C6‐glucose) and used liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis of NAc dialysate to examine the real‐time incorporation of 13C6‐glucose into glutamate, glutamine, and GABA. This novel approach allowed us to identify differences in glucose utilization for neurotransmitter production between these selectively bred lines. We found that voluntarily ingested or gastrically infused 13C6‐glucose rapidly enters the NAc and is incorporated into 13C2‐glutamine, 13C2‐glutamate, and 13C2‐GABA in both groups within minutes. However, the magnitude of increases in NAc 13C2‐glutamine and 13C2‐GABA were lower in obesity‐prone than in obesity‐resistant rats, while basal levels of glutamate were elevated. This suggested that there may be differences in the astrocytic regulation of these analytes. Thus, we next examined NAc glutamine synthetase, GAD67, and GLT‐1 protein expression. Consistent with reduced 13C2‐glutamine and 13C2‐GABA, NAc glutamine synthetase and GLT‐1 protein expression were reduced in obesity‐prone vs obesity‐resistant groups. Taken together, these data show that NAc glucose utilization differs dramatically between obesity‐prone and obesity‐resistant rats, favoring glutamate over GABA production in obesity‐prone rats and that reductions in NAc astrocytic recycling of glutamate contribute to these differences. These data are discussed in light of established differences in NAc function between these models and the role of the NAc in feeding behavior.

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Drawing metro maps in concentric circles: A designer‐in‐the‐loop approach with visual examples
Authors: Chan Ho‐Yin , Xu Yingying , Chen Anthony , Liu Xintao , Cheung Kason Ka Ching
Published: November 2022

This article presents a proof‐of‐concept designer‐in‐the‐loop schematic map drawing tool, based on the marriage of two approaches—manual and automated, which provides the technical interactivity of drawing tools between the user and the computer. We focus on concentric circle maps as opposed to the commonly used orthogonal mode representation, which is suggested by previous studies that it could promote better network learning. In comparison with existing methods, the proposed method is more compatible with the framework of effective map design from psychological and aesthetic perspectives, and a range of options can be provided in conjunction with users' preferences. We evaluated our approach on a set of iterations with case studies of Hong Kong metro with a group of three co‐authors from the fields of geography, transport engineering, and education.
Accuracy of the modified vertebral heart score and the cardio‐vertebral ratio for radiographic evaluation of cardiomegaly in ferrets
Authors: Godart Pierre‐Olivier , Ruel Yannick , Bertal Mileva , Esmieu Shanti , Gouni Vassiliki , Agoulon Albert , Gaillot Hugues
Published: November 2022

Thoracic radiography is commonly used to assess the size of the heart and diagnose cardiac disease in ferrets. Several standardized radiographic heart size indicators have been introduced in this species and values in healthy ferrets have been reported. To date, none of these indicators has been tested in ferrets with cardiac disease. The aim of this prospective and retrospective, analytical observational design study was to assess the accuracy of the modified vertebral heart score (mVHS) and the cardio‐vertebral ratio (CVR) in the radiographic detection of cardiomegaly in ferrets. Thoracic radiographs of 24 ferrets with confirmed heart diseases, 22 ferrets with non‐cardiac diseases and normal‐sized hearts on echocardiogram, and 24 healthy ferrets were mixed and examined by three independent and blinded radiologists who measured mVHS and CVR in right lateral (RL) and ventrodorsal (VD) radiographs. For all readers, ferrets with cardiac disease had significantly higher mVHS and CVR than ferrets without cardiac disease on echocardiography. Optimal cut‐points for predicting cardiac enlargement were 6.25 vertebrae and 7.25 vertebrae for RL‐mVHS and VD‐mVHS, and 1.58 and 1.80 for RL‐CVR and VD‐CVR, respectively. Using these cut‐points, the accuracy was good for indicators measured in RL radiographs (92.9% for RL‐mVHS; 91.4% for RL‐CVR) and moderate for indicators measured in VD radiographs (88.6% for VD‐mVHS; 85.7% for VD‐CVR). Findings supported the use of mVHS and CVR for evaluating the size of the heart in diseased ferrets, with caution in values interpretation when pericardial fat prevents precise delineation of the cardiac silhouette contour especially on VD radiographs.