bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Newborn DNA methylation and asthma acquisition across adolescence and early adulthood
Authors: Li Liang , Holloway John W. , Ewart Susan , Arshad Syed Hasan , Relton Caroline L. , Karmaus Wilfried , Zhang Hongmei
Published: January 2022

Background

Little is known about the association of newborn DNA methylation (DNAm) with asthma acquisition across adolescence and early adult life.

Objective

We aim to identify epigenetic biomarkers in newborns for asthma acquisition during adolescence or young adulthood.

Methods

The Isle of Wight Birth Cohort (IOWBC) (n = 1456) data at ages 10, 18 and 26 years were assessed. To screen cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine site (CpGs) potentially associated with asthma acquisition, at the genome scale, we examined differentially methylated regions (DMR) using dmrff R package and individual CpG sites using linear regression on such associations. For CpGs that passed screening, we examined their enrichment in biological pathways using their mapping genes and tested their associations with asthma acquisitions using logistic regressions. Findings in IOWBC were tested in an independent cohort, the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) cohort.

Results

In total, 2636 unique CpGs passed screening, based on which we identified one biological pathway linked to asthma acquisition during adolescence in females (FDR adjusted p‐value = .003 in IOWBC). Via logistic regressions, for females, four CpGs were shown to be associated with asthma acquisition during adolescence, and another four CpGs with asthma acquisition in young adulthood (FDR adjusted p‐value < .05 in IOWBC) and these eight CpGs were replicated in ALSPAC (all p‐values < .05). DNAm at all the identified CpGs was shown to be temporally consistent, and at six of the CpGs was associated with expressions of adjacent or mapping genes in females (all p‐values < .05). For males, 622 CpGs were identified in IOWBC (FDR = 0.01), but these were not tested in ALSPAC due to small sample sizes.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Eight CpGs on LHX5, IL22RA2, SOX11, CBX4, ACPT, CFAP46, MUC4, and ATP1B2 genes have the potential to serve as candidate epigenetic biomarkers in newborns for asthma acquisition in females during adolescence or young adulthood.
Cannabinoid WIN55212‐2 impairs peanut‐allergic sensitization and promotes the generation of allergen‐specific regulatory T cells
Authors: Angelina Alba , Jiménez‐Saiz Rodrigo , Pérez‐Diego Mario , Maldonado Angel , Rückert Beate , Akdis Mübeccel , Martín‐Fontecha Mar , Akdis Cezmi A. , Palomares Oscar
Published: January 2022

Background

Cannabinoids are lipid‐derived mediators with anti‐inflammatory properties in different diseases. WIN55212‐2, a non‐selective synthetic cannabinoid, reduces immediate anaphylactic reactions in a mouse model of peanut allergy, but its capacity to prevent peanut‐allergic sensitization and the underlying mechanisms remains largely unknown.

Objective

To investigate the capacity of WIN55212‐2 to immunomodulate peanut‐stimulated human dendritic cells (DCs) and peanut‐allergic sensitization in mice.

Methods

Surface markers and cytokines were quantified by flow cytometry, ELISA and qPCR in human monocyte‐derived DCs (hmoDCs) and T‐cell cocultures after stimulation with peanut alone or in the presence of WIN55212‐2. Mice were epicutaneously sensitized with peanut alone or peanut/WIN55212‐2. After peanut challenge, drop in body temperature, haematocrit, clinical symptoms, peanut‐specific antibodies in serum and FOXP3+ regulatory (Treg) cells in spleen and lymph nodes were quantified. Splenocytes were stimulated in vitro with peanut to analyse allergen‐specific T‐cell responses.

Results

WIN55212‐2 reduced peanut‐induced hmoDC activation and promoted the generation of CD4+CD127−CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells, while reducing the induction of IL‐5‐producing T cells. In vivo, WIN55212‐2 impaired the peanut‐induced migration of DCs to lymph nodes and their maturation. WIN55212‐2 significantly reduced the induction of peanut‐specific IgE and IgG1 antibodies in serum during epicutaneous peanut sensitization, reduced the clinical symptoms score upon peanut challenge and promoted the generation of allergen‐specific FOXP3+ Treg cells.

Conclusions

The synthetic cannabinoid WIN55212‐2 interferes with peanut sensitization and promotes tolerogenic responses, which might well pave the way for the development of novel prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for peanut allergy.
The impact of adherence and therapy regimens on quality of life in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Ekbom Kerstin , Strandqvist Anna , Lajic Svetlana , Hirschberg Angelica , Falhammar Henrik , Nordenström Anna
Published: January 2022

Objective

Varying outcomes regarding the quality of life (QoL) have been reported in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). To assess the impact of adherence rate to medical therapy regimens on QoL in patients with CAH.

Patients

Adolescents and adults aged 15–72 years with CAH due to 21‐hydroxylase deficiency at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.

Measurements

QoL was assessed using the Addison QoL (n = 72) and RAND 36 questionnaires (n = 75). Adherence to therapy regimens was measured using the Adherence Starts with Knowledge questionnaire (ASK‐12). Associations between QoL, type of glucocorticoid therapy prescribed and ASK‐12 results were examined. Results were compared to reference RAND 36 data obtained from a representative sample from the general Swedish population.

Results

A good adherence rate to therapy regimens and a younger age were key factors for a better QoL in study participants with CAH. Younger patients on hydrocortisone and with good adherence had higher RAND 36 scores than older patients on prednisolone independently adherence. Participants with classic CAH (both the salt‐wasting and simple virilizing form) reported higher QoL than those with nonclassic CAH. Patients with CAH, especially nonclassic, more frequently reported an impaired QoL than the general population, especially regarding limitations related to body pain, vitality and mental health.

Conclusion

A poor adherence rate to therapy regimens, rather than type of glucocorticoid was associated with impaired QoL in adolescents and adults with CAH.
Modelling Surround‐aware Contrast Sensitivity for HDR Displays
Authors: Yi Shinyoung , Jeon Daniel S. , Serrano Ana , Jeong Se‐Yoon , Kim Hui‐Yong , Gutierrez Diego , Kim Min H.
Published: January 2022

Despite advances in display technology, many existing applications rely on psychophysical datasets of human perception gathered using older, sometimes outdated displays. As a result, there exists the underlying assumption that such measurements can be carried over to the new viewing conditions of more modern technology. We have conducted a series of psychophysical experiments to explore contrast sensitivity using a state‐of‐the‐art HDR display, taking into account not only the spatial frequency and luminance of the stimuli but also their surrounding luminance levels. From our data, we have derived a novel surround‐aware contrast sensitivity function (CSF), which predicts human contrast sensitivity more accurately. We additionally provide a practical version that retains the benefits of our full model, while enabling easy backward compatibility and consistently producing good results across many existing applications that make use of CSF models. We show examples of effective HDR video compression using a transfer function derived from our CSF, tone‐mapping and improved accuracy in visual difference prediction.
Fetal case of rare association of hypoplastic left heart syndrome and absent atrial septum accompanied by mixed form of supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection
Authors: Maruyama Wakako , Kawasaki Yuki , Murakami Yosuke , Fujino Mitsuhiro , Sasaki Takeshi , Nakamura Kae , Ehara Eiji
Published: January 2022

Abnormal pulmonary venous flow patterns on fetal echocardiography and a nutmeg lung pattern on fetal magnetic resonance imaging are seen in patients with pulmonary venous stenosis. The association between these findings and the degree of pulmonary venous stenosis remains unknown. We report an extremely rare case of a fetus diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome complicated by an absent atrial septum and supracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection with left pulmonary venous congestion. This case suggests that compared to non‐pulsatile continuous pulmonary venous flow, the nutmeg lung pattern can only be observed with severe pulmonary congestion and advanced pulmonary lymphangiectasia.
Odontoma malformation and disturbances of eruption subsequent to traumatic dental injuries: A literature review and a case report
Authors: Silva Daniela R. , Shahinian Anna L.
Published: January 2022

Due to the close proximity of the primary teeth with the developing permanent successors, several developmental alterations in the permanent successors have been reported as consequences of traumatic dental injuries to the primary dentition. When they occur at a very young age such trauma could disturb normal tooth development and cause rare anomalies, including sequestration of the permanent tooth germ and odontoma‐like malformations. A literature review of case reports with a history of trauma and odontoma formation is discussed in this paper. This paper also includes a case report of a patient, who was 3‐years and 5‐months old, when she was seen at the University of California, Los Angeles Children's Dental Center for the first time. The grandmother reported that the child was dropped from the father's lap when she was 2 weeks old and suffered head trauma and multiple skull fractures.
Rethinking age heaping again for understanding its possibilities and limitations
Authors: Baten Joerg , Benati Giacomo , Ferber Sarah
Published: January 2022

A'Hearn, Delfino, and Nuvolari recently argued in this journal that the indicator function of age heaping for education, and numeracy in particular, is quite limited. In contrast, we show empirically that by applying the methodological elements that were developed over the past decade, age‐heaping‐based numeracy research can be an important tool for economic history.
Disturbed expression of vitamin D and retinoic acid‐related orphan receptors α and γ and of megalin in inflammatory skin diseases
Authors: Brożyna Anna A. , Żmijewski Michał A. , Linowiecka Kinga , Kim Tae‐Kang , Slominski Radomir M. , Slominski Andrzej T.
Published: January 2022

The pathogenesis of inflammatory skin diseases is associated with the abnormal activity of keratinocytes and immune cells infiltrate. Vitamin D3 deficiency can correlate with the increased incidence, severity and duration of inflammatory skin disorders. The exact mechanism on how vitamin D3 influences inflammatory skin diseases still requires clarification. However, it can be associated with the disturbances in transmembrane glycoprotein—LRP2/megalin, which is implicated in vitamin D3 transport to the cell, and defects in vitamin D‐signalling through the nuclear receptors. Therefore, by using immunohistochemistry, we analysed the expression of LRP2/megalin, VDR, RORα and RORγ in allergic contact dermatitis, lichen simplex chronicus, sarcoidosis and psoriasis in comparison with the normal skin. We observed decreased expression of LRP2/megalin in all inflammatory lesions in comparison with the normal skin. Significant differences were also noticed in VDR, RORα and RORγ levels between inflammatory lesions and normal skin. Our research indicates disturbed expression of LRP2/megalin, VDR, RORα and RORγ in inflammatory skin lesions in comparison with normal skin. Therefore, we suggest that changes in the activity of these proteins may play role in pathogenesis of inflammatory skin disorders. Furthermore, we suggest that LRP2/megalin, VDR, RORα and RORy may serve as targets in therapy of these diseases.
The private sector and multidimensional poverty reduction in Vietnam: A cross‐province panel data analysis
Authors: Van Le Dao , Tran Tuyen Quang , Doan Tinh
Published: January 2022

This study examines the role of private sector development (PSD) in multidimensional poverty alleviation in Vietnam, using provincial panel data for the 2010–2019 period. PSD is measured as the proportion of the workforce in (i) all private firms, (ii) domestic private firms, and (iii) multinational firms, respectively. We use a two‐step general method of moment estimator to account for unobservable heterogeneity, simultaneity, and the relationship between current provincial characteristics and past provincial poverty. We find that each percentage point increase in private sector employment contributes to a reduction of 0.30% and 0.31% in multidimensional poverty and monetary poverty, respectively. Notably, further analysis confirms that a similar effect is also found for both domestic private and multinational enterprises. In addition, our study finds that economic growth and educational attainment emerge as major factors mitigating multidimensional and unidimensional poverty, while income inequality increases both poverty measures.
Classicisme et Cartésianisme: le «Traité de la Vraie Beauté» de Pierre Nicole
Authors: Winther Truls
Published: January 2022

Le Traité de la vraie beauté de Pierre Nicole est un des rares écrits jansénistes consacrés à la théorie littéraire. La pensée esthétique de Nicole est profondément marquée par la méthode cartésienne; ceci s'avère quand on compare le premier chapitre du Traité avec quelques notions clefs du Discours de la méthode. Mais s'ensuit‐il de là que Nicole, en prenant la méthode cartésienne comme point de départ, ait vraiment créé une «esthétique cartésienne»? Il semble que Nicole attribue aux choses «imitées» par le poète, une «nature» ou «forme» spécifique; idée étrangère à la pensée de Descartes. Il semble aussi que l'expérience esthétique, selon Nicole, suppose une «collaboration» entre l'esprit et les sens; pensée incompatible avec le système cartésien. Nicole transgresse donc les données de la pensée cartésienne. Mais peut‐être la transgresse‐t‐il aussi en voulant juger l'expérience esthétique par les principes cartésiens mêmes, car il se trouve, dans Les passions de Tame, une ébauche d'une esthétique «baroque» d'illusion et de tromperie, et non pas une esthétique rationnaliste.
Alissa‐Eloissa
Authors: Hunt Tony
Published: January 2022

The starting point of the article is Gide's admission, hitherto unexamined, of the impression made on him by the story of Abelard and Heloise, particularly through the drama of Charles de Rémusat. The purpose of the article is to show how Rémusat's drama and the letters of Abelard and Heloise provided the impetus to the creation of La Porte étroite and shaped Gide's ethical and metaphysical concerns in this récit.
Local orders, lattice distortions, and electronic structure dominated mechanical properties of (ZrHfTaM1M2)C (M = Nb, Ti, V)
Authors: Yao Gang , Wang William Yi , Zou Chengxiong , Ren Ke , Li Peixuan , Gao Xingyu , Lin Deye , Wang Jun , Yang Shufeng , Wang Yiguang , Song Haifeng , Li Jinshan
Published: January 2022

High‐entropy carbides (HECs) are regarded as potential candidate structural materials with attractive mechanical properties due to their ultra‐high hardness. It is essential to reveal the atomic and electronic basis for strengthening mechanism in order to develop the advanced HECs. In the present work, C (M = Nb, Ti, V) are selected as case studies. The effects of transition metals (M) on the lattice parameters, bulk modulus, enthalpy of formation, electron work function (EWF), and bonding morphology/strength of HECs are comprehensively studied by first‐principles calculations. It is found that the lattice parameters, equilibrium volumes, and bulk modulus of HECs are improved with the increase of M atomic volumes. The atomic‐size differences among various groups of elements not only result in the lattice mismatch/distortion but also contribute to the formation of weak spots. In the view of bonding charge density, the electron redistributions caused by the coupling effect of the lattice distortion and valance electron differences can be revealed obviously, which identify the different bonding strength. Moreover, in terms of EWF, the proposed power‐law‐scaled hardness of HECs is validated and matches well with those reported theoretical and experimental results, providing a strategy to design advanced HECs with excellent mechanical properties.
Enhancing the biodesulphurization capacity of Rhodococcus sp. FUM94 in a biphasic system through optimization of operational factors
Authors: Hokmabadi Mahsa , Khosravinia Somayeh , Mahdavi Mahmood A. , Gheshlaghi Reza
Published: January 2022

The biodesulfurization activity of bacteria through the 4S pathway in aqueous-oil emulsions is affected by various operational factors. These factors also demonstrate interacting effects that influence the potential for field applications of biodesulfurization technology and can solely be deciphered through multi-variable experiments. In this study, the effects of the influential factors and their interactions on the desulfurizing activity of a newly identified desulfurizing bacterium, Rhodococcus sp, FUM94 were quantitatively investigated. The capacity improvement achieved through optimized values obtained in this study is significant due to its simple implementation to large scale processes. This is the most simple and the most cost-effective way to scale-up a biodesulfurization process.Using response surface methodology (RSM). Optimum values of the factors were identified with the objective of maximizing biodesulfurization activity. Results revealed that the desulfurization activity of the biocatalyst increased from 0.323 ± 0.072 to 46.57 ± 4.556 mmol 2-Hydroxybiphenyl (kg dry cell weight)−1h−1 at the optimized conditions of 6 h reaction time, 2 g.L−1 biocatalyst concentration, 0.54 mM (100 ppm) dibenzothiophene (DBT) concentration (sulfur source), and 25% oil phase fraction. Desirability analysis proved that the selected conditions are the most desirable combination of factors (desirability value = 0.896) to achieve the highest biodesulfurization activity of the biocatalyst. A comparison between the biodesulfurization capacity achieved in this study and the capacities reported in similar studies published in the past two decades revealed that biodesulfurization under optimized operational conditions outperforms previously proposed techniques.
Structure and functional capacity of a benzene-mineralizing, nitrate-reducing microbial community
Authors: Eziuzor Samuel C. , Corrêa Felipe B. , Peng Shuchan , Schultz Júnia , Kleinsteuber Sabine , da Rocha Ulisses N. , Adrian Lorenz , Vogt Carsten
Published: January 2022

Aims

How benzene is metabolized by microbes under anoxic conditions is not fully understood. Here, we studied the degradation pathways in a benzene-mineralizing, nitrate-reducing enrichment culture.

Methods and results

Benzene mineralization was dependent on the presence of nitrate and correlated to the enrichment of a Peptococcaceae phylotype only distantly related to known anaerobic benzene degraders of this family. Its relative abundance decreased after benzene mineralization had terminated, while other abundant taxa—Ignavibacteriaceae, Rhodanobacteraceae and Brocadiaceae—slightly increased. Generally, the microbial community remained diverse despite the amendment of benzene as single organic carbon source, suggesting complex trophic interactions between different functional groups. A subunit of the putative anaerobic benzene carboxylase previously detected in Peptococcaceae was identified by metaproteomic analysis suggesting that benzene was activated by carboxylation. Detection of proteins involved in anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) indicates that benzene mineralization was accompanied by anammox, facilitated by nitrite accumulation and the presence of ammonium in the growth medium.

Conclusions

The results suggest that benzene was activated by carboxylation and further assimilated by a novel Peptococcaceae phylotype.

Significance and impact of the study

The results confirm the hypothesis that Peptococcaceae are important anaerobic benzene degraders.
Broussonin A– and B–mediated inhibition of angiogenesis by blockade of VEGFR‐2 signalling pathways and integrin β1 expression
Authors: Kim Jae Hyeon , Kim Sunho , Han Surim , Ahn Eun‐Kyung , Cho Young‐Rak , Jeong Wonsik , Kim Sung Joon , Bae Gyu‐Un , Oh Joa Sub , Seo Dong‐Wan
Published: January 2022

In the present study, we demonstrate the regulatory effects and mechanism of broussonin A and B, diphenylpropane derivatives isolated from Broussonetia kazinoki, on vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGF‐A)–stimulated endothelial cell responses in vitro and microvessel sprouting ex vivo. Treatment with broussonin A or B suppressed VEGF‐A‐stimulated endothelial cell proliferation by regulating the expression of cell cycle–related proteins and the phosphorylation status of retinoblastoma protein. In addition, treatment with broussonin A or B abrogated VEGF‐A‐stimulated angiogenic responses including endothelial cell migration, invasion, tube formation and microvessel formation from rat aortic rings. These anti‐angiogenic activities of broussonin A and B were mediated through inactivation of VEGF‐A‐stimulated downstream signalling pathways, localization of vascular endothelial‐cadherin at cell‐cell contacts, and down‐regulation of integrin β1 and integrin‐liked kinase. Furthermore, treatment with broussonin A or B inhibited proliferation and invasion of non–small cell lung cancer and ovarian cancer cells. Taken together, our findings suggest the pharmacological potential of broussonin A and B in the regulation of angiogenesis, cancer cell growth and progression.
Cold storage of Spodoptera litura eggs and Telenomus remus adults for improving mass‐rearing efficiency
Authors: Chen Wanbin , Zhang Hongzhi , Jing Xiaoyu , Li Yuyan , Wang Mengqing , Mao Jianjun , Weng Qingfen , Nie Rui , Zhang Lisheng
Published: January 2022

Telenomus remus (Nixon) has shown promising potential as a biological control agent for the major invasive agricultural pest, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith). Application of biological control programmes in the field requires an efficient mass‐rearing system to provide sufficient numbers of beneficial insects. The short longevity of parasitoid adults and limited period of availability of host eggs are two factors affecting the mass‐rearing efficiency of T. remus. Using Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) eggs as an alternative host, the effects of cold storage of S. litura eggs and T. remus adults at 5°C, 8°C and 11°C for different time durations on the fitness of the parasitoid were investigated to identify the most suitable storage conditions. Results showed that T. remus can successfully exploit stored S. litura eggs, but the number of parasitized eggs decreased with increased egg storage duration and/or reduced storage temperature. For refrigerated adults, the survival rate declined gradually with longer storage duration, and the females' survival rate was higher than the males' at any treatment. Similarly, parasitism capacity of stored adults declined significantly with prolonged storage. Female adult longevity was significantly shorter than the control for all treatments. However, the offspring emergence rate and percentage of females were barely affected by cold storage. In conclusion, S. litura eggs can be stored at 11°C for up to 9 days and adult T. remus can be stored at 8°C or 11°C for up to 7 days without significant losses. Data obtained from this study will help coordinate different aspects of T. remus production, decreasing costs and improving the biocontrol materials' availability.
Transient computer simulation of the temperature profile in different packaging materials: An optimization of thermal treatment of tender coconut water
Authors: Prithviraj V. , Pandiselvam Ravi , Manikantan M. R. , Ramesh S. V. , Shameena Beegum P. P. , Kothakota Anjineyulu , Mousavi Khaneghah Amin
Published: January 2022

Understanding the temperature profile of different packaging materials would be useful for selecting appropriate packaging material for in‐bottle pasteurization. The temperature profile of polypropylene, polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate bottles was investigated using COMSOL Multiphysics software to understand the temperature–time correlation with thermal treatments. PE bottles exhibited the least temperature difference between cold and hot spots. Optimization of thermal treatment processing parameters such as temperature (80–95°C) and treatment time (5–15 min) for inactivation of enzymes, namely polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD), in tender coconut water (TCW) was performed to the extent its shelf life. The quality parameters of heat‐treated TCW such as pH, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), turbidity, phenolic content, PPO, POD, and sensory evaluation were analyzed. The multiple linear regression models were developed for each quality parameter using a central composite design (CCD). The optimized treatment conditions were 84°C temperature and 5 min treatment time with the desirability of 0.926. The responses recorded were pH = 5.4, TSS = 5.52, turbidity = 7.1 NTU, TA = 0.06% of malic acid, relative PPO = 0.099, relative POD = 0.093, phenolic content = 44.712 mg gallic acid equivalent/L, and overall acceptability score = 8.

Practical Applications

Understanding the temperature profile of different packaging materials during pasteurization or sterilization is imperative to select the suitable packaging material, and also it would be helpful for designing the heating system. Tender coconut water (TCW) is the most popular natural drink in Asian countries. However, the pasteurization conditions are yet to be optimized to preserve TCW without affecting its bioactive and functional components. The current practice followed for in‐bottle sterilization of TCW is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This is due to PET being cheaper and readily available than other packaging materials. However, the quality of the TCW could affect PET due to improper heat distribution which can lead to damage of bioactive components. The present study has optimized the suitable pasteurization conditions and packaging material for bottling and marketing TCW. The findings of the present study will boost the market potential of the tender coconut processing industries.
The relationship between the reminiscence of relationship‐defining memories and marital outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Majzoobi Mohammad Reza , Forstmeier Simon
Published: January 2022

The current systematic review aimed to explore the interdependence of relationship‐defining memories (RDMs) with positive and negative marital outcomes in order to gain a deeper insight into the nature, content, and the reminiscence of RDMs, as well as the role they may serve in the marital relationship. The studies included in the current systematic review had addressed RDMs and their impact on marital outcomes among healthy people above the age of 18 who are in a romantic relationship. After checking the studies found in our search through the scientific databases against the eligibility criteria, 16 studies were included in the systematic review, of which 14 were found to be eligible for a meta‐analysis. The results of the meta‐analysis indicated a relatively moderate and high correlation of RDMs with marital outcomes (r = .334) and marital satisfaction (r = .445), respectively. The review of included studies revealed that there is an inextricable link between RDMs and significant marital outcomes such as marital satisfaction, intimacy, well‐being, quality, and suchlike.
Northern gene flow into southeastern East Asians inferred from genome‐wide array genotyping
Authors: He Guang‐Lin , Li Ying‐Xiang , Zou Xing , Yeh Hui‐Yuan , Tang Ren‐Kuan , Wang Pei‐Xin , Bai Jing‐Ya , Yang Xiao‐Min , Wang Zheng , Guo Jian‐Xin , Chen Jin‐Wen , Chen Jing , Yang Mei‐Qing , Zhao Jing , Sun Jin , Zhu Kong‐Yang , Ma Hao , Wang Rui , Yang Wen‐Jiao , Hu Rong , Wei Lan‐Hai , Hou Yi‐Ping , Wang Meng‐Ge , Chen Gang , Wang Chuan‐Chao
Published: January 2022

The population history of Southeast (SE) China remains poorly understood due to the sparse sampling of present‐day populations and limited modeling with ancient genomic data. We report genome‐wide genotyping data from 207 present‐day Han Chinese and Hmong‐Mien (HM)‐speaking She people from Fujian and Taiwan Island, SE China. We coanalyzed 66 Early Neolithic to Iron Age ancient Fujian and Taiwan Island individuals obtained from previously published works to explore the genetic continuity and admixture based on patterns of genetic variations of the high‐resolution time transect. We found the genetic differentiation between northern and southern East Asians was defined by a north–south East Asian genetic cline and our studied southern East Asians were clustered in the southern end of this cline. The southeastern coastal modern East Asians are genetically similar to other southern indigenous groups as well as geographically close to Neolithic‐to‐Iron Age populations, but they also shared excess alleles with post‐Neolithic Yellow River ancients, which suggested a southward gene flow on the modern southern coastal gene pool. In addition, we identified one new HM genetic cline in East Asia with the coastal Fujian HM‐speaking She localizing at the intersection between HM and Han clines. She people show stronger genetic affinity with southern East Asian indigenous populations, with the main ancestry deriving from groups related to southeastern ancient indigenous rice farmers. The southeastern Han Chinese could be modeled with the primary ancestry deriving from the group related to the Yellow River Basin millet farmers and the remaining from groups related to rice farmers, which was consistent with the northern China origin of modern southeastern Han Chinese and in line with the historically and archaeologically attested southward migrations of Han people and their ancestors. Our estimated north–south admixture time ranges based on the decay of the linkage disequilibrium spanned from the Bronze Age to historic periods, suggesting the recent large‐scale population migrations and subsequent admixture participated in the formation of modern Han in SE Asia.
Ent-hardwickiic acid from C. pubiflora and its microbial metabolites are more potent than fluconazole in vitro against Candida glabrata
Authors: Sousa Teixeira M.V. , Fernandes L.M. , Stefanelli de Paula V. , Ferreira A.G. , Jacometti Cardoso Furtado N.A.
Published: January 2022

The incidence of Candida glabrata infections has rapidly grown and this species is among those responsible for causing invasive candidiasis with a high mortality rate. The diterpene ent-hardwickiic acid is a major constituent in Copaifera pubiflora oleoresin and the ethnopharmacological uses of this oleoresin by people from Brazilian Amazonian region point to a potential use of this major constituent as an antimicrobial. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of ent-hardwickiic acid against Candida species and to produce derivatives of this diterpene by using microbial models for simulating the mammalian metabolism. The microbial transformations of ent-hardwickiic acid were carried out by Aspergillus brasiliensis and Cunninghamella elegans and hydroxylated metabolites were isolated and their chemical structures were determined. The antifungal activity of ent-hardwickiic acid and its metabolites was assessed by using the microdilution broth method in 96-well microplates and compared with that of fluconazole. All the diterpenes showed fungistatic effects (ranging from 19·7 to 75·2 µmol l−1) against C. glabrata at lower concentrations than fluconazole (163·2 µmol l−1) and were more potent fungicides (ranging from 39·5 to 150·4 µmol l−1) than fluconazole, which showed fungicidal effect at the concentration of 326·5 µmol l−1.
Post‐relationship stalking and intimate partner abuse in a sample of Australian adolescents
Authors: Cloonan‐Thomas Sinead , Daff Elizabeth S. , McEwan Troy E.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

There is limited research examining stalking among adolescents. This study investigates adolescent stalking following an intimate relationship, or post‐relationship stalking (PRS), potential links with youth intimate partner abuse (YIPA) during the relationship, and examines psychological processes hypothesised to be associated with perpetrating PRS.

Methods

Four hundred and twenty‐three participants aged between 14–18 years were recruited from Australian secondary schools, with a subsample of 205 who reported on experiences of YIPA and PRS used in this study.

Results

Results showed that PRS was prevalent, with 19% (n = 33) reporting victimisation and 18% (n = 31) perpetration. Significant relationships were found between the experience of PRS and prior YIPA victimisation. Rumination about relationships was significantly related to PRS perpetration.

Conclusions

These findings add to the small body of literature on adolescent stalking and emphasise the need for more research into this phenomenon in order to guide developmentally appropriate prevention and intervention strategies.
The scope of inductive risk
Authors: Magnus P. D.
Published: January 2022

The Argument from Inductive Risk (AIR) is taken to show that values are inevitably involved in making judgments or forming beliefs. After reviewing this conclusion, this paper poses cases that are prima facie counterexamples: the unreflective application of conventions, use of black‐boxed instruments, reliance on opaque algorithms, and unskilled observation reports. These cases are counterexamples to the AIR posed in ethical terms as a matter of personal values. Nevertheless, it need not be understood in those terms. The values that load a theory choice may be those of institutions or past actors. This means that the challenge of responsibly handling inductive risk is not merely an ethical issue but is also social, political, and historical.
Motivational determinism
Authors: Barnes Eric Christian
Published: January 2022

Physical determinism is a metaphysical thesis about the natural world whose consequences for freedom and moral responsibility have been widely discussed. In this paper, I articulate a different form of determinism, motivational determinism, which claims that all intentional action is causally determined by the prior motivational state of the agent. Motivational determinism was defended in a simple form by Hume, but has been neglected in recent philosophical literature. I show that there are important reasons that support the plausibility of MD. I then compare MD with libertarian and physical deterministic theories of agency and note that MD has various attractive features. I show that MD is much more threatening to moral responsibility than physical determinism. I conclude that MD is an interesting theory of human agency that deserves wide attention.
Riparian vegetation shade restoration and loss effects on recent and future stream temperatures
Authors: Fuller Matthew R. , Leinenbach Peter , Detenbeck Naomi E. , Labiosa Rochelle , Isaak Daniel J.
Published: January 2022

River temperatures are expected to increase this century harming species requiring cold‐water habitat unless restoration activities protect or improve habitat availability. Local shading by riparian vegetation can cool water temperatures, but uncertainty exists over the scaling of this local effect to larger spatial extents. We evaluate this issue using a regional spatial stream network temperature model with covariates representing shade effects to predict mean August stream temperatures across 78,195 km of tributaries flowing into the Columbia River in the northwestern United States. We evaluate nine scenarios predicting stream temperatures for three riparian shade conditions (current, restored, and no riparian vegetation) within three different climate periods (2000s, 2040s, and 2080s). Results suggest riparian shade restoration (2000s climate) could decrease mean August stream temperatures by 0.62°C across the study network. Under the same restored shade conditions, temperature predictions for tributaries at their confluence with the Columbia River range from 0.02 to 2.08°C cooler than under current shade conditions. The climate warming effect predicted for the 2040s and 2080s, however, is greater than the cooling effect from restoring riparian shade. Streams less than 10‐m bankfull width cooled more frequently with riparian shade restoration. In Oregon, the proportion of fish habitat for salmon and trout rearing and migration that meet temperature numeric water quality criteria could be increased by 20% under restored shade conditions although net habitat declines may still occur in the future. We conclude riparian vegetation restoration could partially mitigate future warming and help maintain cold‐water habitats that function as thermal refuges if implemented strategically.
Pairwise Comparisons as a Scale Development Tool for Composite Measures
Authors: Floridi Ginevra , Lauderdale Benjamin E.
Published: January 2022

Composite scales are widely used for measuring aggregate social science concepts. These often consist of linear indices obtained as the weighted sum of a set of relevant indicators. However, selecting coefficients (or weights) that reflect the substantive importance of each indicator towards the concept of interest is a difficult task. We propose a method for the generation of linear indices for aggregate concepts based on pairwise comparisons. Specifically, we ask a group of subject-matter experts to perform a series of pairwise comparisons, with respect to the concept of interest, between profiles displaying different combinations of indicators. This allows us to estimate coefficients for each indicator that provide a linear approximation to how experts make the pairwise evaluations. As we show, the method makes it straightforward to assess intercoder reliability, while being a more accessible task than directly asking experts for coefficients. We demonstrate our method with an application to the concept of ‘productive ageing’, including a cross-cultural comparison of weighting schemes derived from a group of Italian and a group of South Korean experts on this concept.
Experimental strain‐based vibration control to obtain the fatigue strain limit by the staircase method
Authors: Shi Lujie , Khalij Leila , Gautrelet Christophe
Published: January 2022

This study is a combination of constant amplitude fatigue experimental tests with strain control technique and staircase method to assess the fatigue strain limit (FSL). The strain control provides a dwell‐fatigue test to the failure by a strain gauge bonded to the reduced section center of the specimen. A staircase test procedure with a vibration bending bench is detailed in this work, including parameters selection. The result analysis is based on kernel density estimation, used to access the FSL on non‐parameter distribution. Low‐carbon steel specimens with fatigue zone were selected to evaluate the FSL statistical features. The results highlight the efficiency of the strain‐controlled staircase method to reach the FSL.
An Alternative Formulation for Modeling Self-Excited Vibrations of Drillstring With Polycrystalline Diamond Compact Bits
Authors: Tian Kaixiao , Detournay Emmanuel , Zhang He
Published: January 2022

This work describes an alternative formulation of a system of nonlinear state-dependent delay differential equations (SDDDEs), which governs the coupled axial-torsional vibrations of a 2 DOF drillstring model with a realistic representation of polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bits. The regenerative effect associated with the complex cutter layout for such bits can introduce up to 100 state-dependent delays in the equations of motion. This large number of state-dependent delays renders the computational efficiency of conventional solution strategies unacceptable. The regeneration of the bottom-hole surface can alternatively be described by the bit trajectory function, whose evolution is governed by a partial differential equation (PDE). Thus the original system of SDDDEs can be replaced by a nonlinear coupled system of a PDE and ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Via the application of the Galerkin Method, this system of PDE-ODEs is transformed into a system of coupled ODEs, which can readily be solved. The algorithm is further extended to perform a linear stability analysis of the bit motion. The resulting stability boundaries are verified with time-domain simulations. The reported algorithm could, in principle, be applied to a more realistic drillstring model, which may lead to an in-depth understanding of the mitigation of self-excited vibrations through PDC bit designs.
Effects of Intrinsic Flame Instabilities on Thermoacoustic Oscillations in Lean Premixed Gas Turbines
Authors: Li Fangyan , Tian Xiaotao , Du Minglong , Shi Lei , Cui Jiashan
Published: January 2022

Thermoacoustic instabilities are commonly encountered in the development of aeroengines and rocket motors. Research on the fundamental mechanism of thermoacoustic instabilities is beneficial for the optimal design of these engine systems. In the present study, a thermoacoustic instability model based on the lean premixed gas turbines (LPGT) combustion system was established. The longitudinal distribution of heat release caused by the intrinsic instability of flame front was considered in the model. Effects of different heat release distributions and characteristic parameters (Lewis number Le, Zeldovich Number β, and Prandtl number Pr) of the premixed gas on thermoacoustic instability behaviors of the LPGT system were investigated based on the established model. Results show that the LPGT system features have two kinds of unstable thermoacoustic modes. The first one corresponds to the natural acoustic mode of the plenum and the second one corresponds to that of the combustion chamber. The characteristic parameters of the premixed gases have a large impact on the stability of the system and can even change the system from stable to unstable state.
Optimum Design and Performance Simulation of a Multi-Device Integrated System Based on a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Zhang Xiuqin , Cheng Wentao , Lin Qiubao , Wu Longquan , Wang Junyi , Chen Jincan
Published: January 2022

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) based on syngas are a promising technology for electric vehicle applications. To increase the fuel conversion efficiency, the low-temperature waste heat from the PEMFC is absorbed by a refrigerator. The absorption refrigerator provides cool air for the interior space of the vehicle. Between finishing the steam reforming reaction and flowing into the fuel cell, the gases release heat continuously. A Brayton engine is introduced to absorb heat and provide a useful power output. A novel thermodynamic model of the integrated system of the PEMFC, refrigerator, and Brayton engine is established. Expressions for the power output and efficiency of the integrated system are derived. The effects of some key parameters are discussed in detail to attain the optimum performance of the integrated system. The simulation results show that when the syngas consumption rate is 4.0 × 10−5 mol s−1 cm−2, the integrated system operates in an optimum state and the product of the efficiency and power density reaches a maximum. In this case, the efficiency and power density of the integrated system are 0.28 and 0.96 J s−1 cm−2, respectively, which are 46% higher than those of a PEMFC.
Rotordynamics of an Improved Face-Grinding Spindle: Rotational Stiffness of Thrust Bearing Increases Radial Stiffness of Spindle
Authors: Lin Shengye , Jiang Shuyun
Published: January 2022

The support is a key factor affecting performance of face-grinding spindle. However, advantage of traditional rolling element bearing is not highlighted when it is for large-size face grinding. This technical brief aims to develop a combined support for the face-grinding spindle consisting of a water-lubricated hydrostatic thrust bearing and two types of radial rolling bearings, and the flexible rotor dynamics of the spindle with the combined support is analyzed using the modified transfer matrix method. The results show that the rotational stiffness of water-lubricated hydrostatic thrust bearing can increase the radial stiffness of the face-grinding spindle, so the small-size rolling bearings can be utilized as the radial support for the spindle by aid of such rotational stiffness. A comparative study of comprehensive performance between the spindle supported by rolling bearings and the replacement spindle designed with our proposed combined support shows that the proposed one has technical advantage of large axial load-carrying capacity, low frictional power loss, low temperature rise, etc.
Numerical Investigation for Performance Enhancement of Photovoltaic Cell by Nanofluid Cooling
Authors: Salem Hassan , Mina Ehab , Abdelmessih Raouf , Mekhail Tarek
Published: January 2022

The cooling fluid is a key factor in cooling photovoltaic (PV) panels especially in the case of concentrated irradiance. Maintaining the panel at low temperature increases its efficiency. This article investigates the usage of water-Al2O3 as a nanofluid for achieving the required cooling process. The particle concentrations and sizes are investigated to record their effect on heat transfer and pressure drop in the developing and developed regions. The research was performed using ansys cfd software with two different approaches: the single phase with average properties and the discrete phase with the Eulerian–Lagrangian framework. Both approaches are compared to experimental results found in the literature. Both approaches show good agreement with the experimental results, with some advantage for the single-phase model in both processing time and predicting heat transfer in the concentration range of 1–6% by volume. It was shown that the heat transfer coefficient is greatly enhanced by increasing the particle concentration or decreasing the particle size. Conversely, the usage of nanofluid causes a severe increase in the pumping power, especially with the increase in concentration and the reduction in particle size. Thus, a system optimization was suggested to raise the overall system efficiency for photovoltaic applications.
Five-Axis Trajectory Generation Considering Synchronization and Nonlinear Interpolation Errors
Authors: Ward Robert A. , Sencer Burak , Jones Bryn , Ozturk Erdem
Published: January 2022

This paper presents a novel real-time interpolation technique for five-axis machine tools to attain higher speed and accuracy. To realize computationally efficient real-time interpolation of 6-DOF tool motion, a joint workpiece–machine coordinate system interpolation scheme is proposed. Cartesian motion of the tool center point (TCP) is interpolated in the workpiece coordinate system (WCS), whereas tool orientation is interpolated in the machine coordinate system (MCS) based on the finite impulse response filtering. Such an approach provides several advantages: (i) it eliminates the need for complex real-time spherical interpolation techniques, (ii) facilitates efficient use of slower rotary drive kinematics to compensate for the dynamic mismatch between Cartesian and rotary axes and achieve higher tool acceleration, and (iii) mitigates feed fluctuations while interpolating near kinematic singularities. To take advantage of such benefits and realize accurate joint WCS–MCS interpolation scheme, tool orientation interpolation errors are analyzed. A novel approach is developed to adaptively discretize long linear tool moves and confine interpolation errors within user set tolerances. Synchronization errors between TCP and tool orientation are also characterized, and peak synchronization error level is determined to guide the interpolation parameter selection. Finally, blending errors during non-stop continuous interpolation of linear toolpaths are modeled and confined. Advantages of the proposed interpolation scheme are demonstrated through simulation studies and validated experimentally. Overall, proposed technique can improve cycle times up to 10% while providing smooth and accurate non-stop real-time interpolation of tool motion in five-axis machining.