bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rheo-2DIR spectroscopy reveals strain-induced hydrogen-bond redistribution in polyurethane
Authors: Giubertoni Giulia , Hilbers Michiel , Groen Hajo , Van der Weide Anne , Bonn Daniel , Woutersen Sander
Published: October 2022

The remarkable elastic properties of polymers are ultimately due to their molecular structure, but the relation between the macroscopic and molecular properties is often difficult to establish, in particular for (bio)polymers that contain hydrogen bonds, which can easily rearrange upon mechanical deformation. Here we show that two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy on polymer films in a miniature stress tester sheds new light on how the hydrogen-bond structure of a polymer is related to its visco-elastic response. We study thermoplastic polyurethane, a block copolymer consisting of hard segments of hydrogen-bonded urethane groups embedded in a soft matrix of polyether chains. The conventional infrared spectrum shows that upon deformation, the number of hydrogen bonds increases, a process that is largely reversible. However, the 2DIR spectrum reveals that the distribution hydrogen-bond strengths becomes slightly narrower after a deformation cycle, due to the disruption of weak hydrogen bonds, an effect that could explain the strain-cycle induced softening (Mullins effect) of polyurethane. These results show how rheo-2DIR spectroscopy can bridge the gap between the molecular structure and the macroscopic elastic properties of (bio)polymers.
Simultaneous multicolor fluorescence imaging using duplication-based PSF splitting
Authors: Eynde Robin Van den , Hertel Fabian , Abakumov Sergey , Krajnik Bartosz , Hugelier Siewert , Auer Alexander , Hellmeier Joschka , Schlichthaerle Thomas , Grattan Rachel M. , Lidke Diane S. , Jungmann Ralf , Leutenegger Marcel , Vandenberg Wim , Dedecker Peter
Published: October 2022

We present a way to encode more information in fluorescence imaging by splitting the emission into copies of the original point-spread function (PSF), which offers broadband operation and compatibility with other PSF engineering modalities and existing analysis tools. We demonstrate the approach using the ‘Circulator’, an add-on that encodes the fluorophore emission band into the PSF, enabling simultaneous multicolor super-resolution and single-molecule microscopy using essentially the full field of view.
Apical-to-basal graded ROS metabolism in intact Hydra leads to distinct levels of injury-induced ROS signaling in apical and basal regenerating tips
Authors: Suknovic Nenad , Reiter-Karam Silke , Chara Osvaldo , Buzgariu Wanda , Martinvalet Denis , Galliot Brigitte
Published: October 2022

After mid-gastric bisection, Hydra regenerates a head from the lower half and a basal disc from the upper one. What signals elicit two distinct regenerative responses in bisected Hydra remains unknown. A mathematical modeling approach based on quantitative data linked to MAPK activation and injury-induced cell death predicts an immediate release of a locally restricted short-lived signal in apical-regenerating tips. We found that Reactive oxygen species (ROS) fulfill this role as evidenced by the injury-induced production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), three-fold higher in apical-regenerating tips than in basal ones. By contrast, mitochondrial superoxide (mtO2.-) is similarly produced on each side of the cut, playing a positive role on wound healing as mtO2.- scavenging delays healing whereas knocking-down Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) leads to mtO2.- accumulation and acceleration of wound-healing. In intact Hydra, the ROS-processing enzyme activities are inversely graded along the body column, basal-to-apical for SOD and apical-to-basal for catalase, explaining the asymmetrical levels of H2O2 after bisection. High H2O2 levels trigger injury-induced cell death via paracrine signaling in apical-regenerating tips, where NOX4 and CYBB enzymes amplify them. Hence, the asymmetrical regulation of H2O2 levels immediately after amputation is crucial to activate two distinct regenerative responses in Hydra.
Two-dimensional speckle technique for slope error measurements of weakly focusing reflective X-ray optics
Authors: Hu Lingfei , Wang Hongchang , Fox Oliver , Sawhney Kawal
Published: October 2022

Speckle-based at-wavelength metrology techniques now play an important role in X-ray wavefront measurements. However, for reflective X-ray optics, the majority of existing speckle-based methods fail to provide reliable 2D information about the optical surface being characterized. Compared with the 1D information typically output from speckled-based methods, a 2D map is more informative for understanding the overall quality of the optic being tested. In this paper, we propose a method for in situ 2D absolute metrology of weakly focusing X-ray mirrors. Importantly, the angular misalignment of the mirror can be easily corrected with the proposed 2D processing procedure. We hope the speckle pattern data processing method presented here will help to extend this technique to wider applications in the synchrotron radiation and X-ray free-electron laser communities.
The impact of COVID-19 on food rescue organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand and future crisis management
Authors: Clare Grace , Mirosa Miranda , Bremer Phil
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The study analyses the resilience of food rescue organisations’ operating as “essential services” in response to the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) in Aotearoa New Zealand. It explores the impact of COVID-19 on the organisations’ operation, preparedness, and potential positive impacts.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews with 19 out of 23 active food rescue organisations across the country. Interview participants included CEOs, founders, managers, and coordinators.

Findings

The study identifies six impact areas experienced by food rescue organisations during COVID-19, policy and preparedness, funding, operation - logistics and personnel, supply continuity, food security and sector collaboration. Despite these impacts, the organisations showcased admirable resilience through innovation, adaptability, and collaborative practices, enabling the continuation of their services during the crisis.

Practical implications

The paper provides a three-stage crisis management framework to guide the development and implementation of a crisis management plan to improve the resilience and preparedness of food rescue organisations’ response to future crises. The framework is flexible and adaptable to each food rescue organisation’s unique operation and capacity.

Originality/value

This paper offers a retrospective analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 on 83% of food rescue organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand. It is the first paper to study the impact of COVID-19 on food rescue organisations.
A hybrid framework to model resilience in the generic medicine supply chain of MSMEs
Authors: Shweta Shweta , Kumar Dinesh , Chandra Dheeraj
Published: October 2022

Purpose

One of the most important components of healthcare is the timely delivery of pharmaceutical products, such as life-saving medicines. However, disruptions like COVID-19 bring new challenges and risks to the pharmaceutical supply chain (PSC) and healthcare organizations that impact their operational performance. This study focuses on mitigating risks in India's generic medicine supply chain (GMSC) as a result of various disruptions, which can assist policymakers develop appropriate plans and strategies to build resilience in the Jan Aushadhi Scheme (JAS) of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in order to improve their overall performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Risk-causing vulnerabilities and resilience capabilities are identified from the literature review and expert's opinions. Following that, the vulnerabilities are classified into cause-and-effect vulnerabilities, and supply chain resilient capabilities (SCRCs) are measured using a hybrid fuzzy DEMATEL and best worst method (FDEMATEL-BMW) framework.

Findings

The outcome of the study reveals that transportation breakdown, loss of human resources and loss of suppliers are the potential risk-causing vulnerabilities that lead to vulnerabilities like shortages of medicines, loss of in-hand stock qualities and loss of sales/revenue. In addition, the analysis suggests that the sustainability of an organization with maximum weightage is the critical factor for building resilience in GMSC followed by flexibility, agility and visibility.

Practical implications

The integration of resilience into Jan Aushadhi GMSC can help in managing disruptions efficiently and effectively to mitigate risk and optimize MSMEs overall performance.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work will be the first of its kind to model resilience in GMSC of MSMEs using a hybrid framework.
The effect of perceived financial risk on purchase intention in Pakistan
Authors: Khokhar Shahid , Shahid Maayda , Hafeez Sana , Tufail Muhammad Shahid
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose is to understand the fundamental mechanism of the consumer decision-making process and how perceived financial risk of search and experience goods influences electronic word-of-mouth adoption (e-WOMA) on social networking sites (SNSs), which will lead to purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on information processing theory, the study conceptualizes a moderated mediation model to investigate the underlying influence of perceived financial risk and online social ties on e-WOMA and the subsequent effect on online purchase intention. Survey data from 275 individuals were analyzed through statistical tools using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).

Findings

The results revealed that e-WOMA mediates the effect of perceived financial risk of search and experience goods on online purchase intention. Strength of online social ties on SNSs positively moderates the electric word of mouth adoption for both the experience and search goods.

Research limitations

The limitation of this study was about the researcher's restrictions related to the length of the survey. Moreover, causal explanations can't be deduced as this is a cross-sectional study.

Practical implications

This research offers insight into the consumers that allow marketers to dive into the target market. Marketers should focus on social ties importance while selling products/services of markets online.

Originality/value

The study is novel in the context of an emerging economy to educate marketers on the product categorization of search goods and experience goods based on financial risk.
Bird extinctions and introductions are causing taxonomic and functional homogenization in oceanic islands
Authors: Soares Filipa C. , Palmeirim Jorge M. , Rodrigues Ana S. L. , Cardoso Pedro , de Lima Ricardo F.
Published: October 2022

Humans are quickly reshaping species assemblages through the loss and gain of species at multiple scales. Extinctions and introductions are non‐random events known to be contributing to taxonomic homogenization. However, it is not yet clear if they also promote functional homogenization. Here, we assess whether extinctions and introductions are leading to taxonomic and functional homogenization of 64 oceanic island bird assemblages, belonging to 11 archipelagos.

Based on island lists of extinct and extant, native and introduced species and on species traits, we use probabilistic hypervolumes in trait space to calculate functional beta‐diversity before and after extinctions and introductions. Bird extinctions and introductions promoted taxonomic and functional homogenization on most oceanic islands. These results follow our expectations, considering previous studies on taxonomic homogenization, the predictable link between taxonomic and functional diversity, and the trait similarity of many introduced species, often adapted to anthropogenic habitats, linked to the non‐randomness of bird introductions on islands.

Taxonomic homogenization was more common across than within archipelagos, also corroborating previous studies describing stronger homogenization on islands that are further apart and thus had distinctive native assemblages. Surprisingly, the widespread loss of species with similar traits, namely large flightless birds, often led to functional differentiation across archipelagos. However, this differentiation effect tended to be offset by the homogenizing effect of introductions.

Functional homogenization increases the vulnerability to global changes, by reducing the variability of responses to disturbance and thus the resilience of ecosystem services, posing a threat to human societies on islands. Our results highlight subtle variations in taxonomic and functional beta‐diversity of bird assemblages in oceanic islands, providing important insights to allow a better assessment of how anthropogenic changes might alter ecosystem functioning, which is vital to develop effective long‐term conservation strategies.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
How effective is a fat subsidy? Evidence from edible oil consumption in India
Authors: Jumrani Jaya , Meenakshi J. V.
Published: October 2022

Taxes on fats and sugar‐sweetened beverages are deployed in the developed world to encourage healthier diets. How effective might such fiscal instruments be in emerging economies? We evaluate the impacts of a subsidy for palm oil, introduced as part of the public distribution system in three Indian states. Using variants of the difference‐in‐differences approach, we find that palm oil consumption increased, particularly in rural areas, as a result of the subsidy, and traditional oils were displaced by cheaper palm oil. However, the intervention did not significantly alter overall edible oil consumption. These results are robust to different specifications, alternative estimation samples, and the exclusion of households who may have been potential beneficiaries of other interventions. Impacts were higher in Tamil Nadu than in other states, and were higher for vegetarian households in rural areas. There was only weak evidence of spillover income effects on other food groups. Given India's dual burden of malnutrition, our analysis suggests that fiscal policy interventions have the potential to effectively nudge consumer choices towards healthier edible oil consumption.
Influence of airway trolley organization on efficiency and team performance: A randomized, crossover simulation study
Authors: Sturesson Louise W. , Persson Karolina , Olmstead Richard , Bjurström Martin F.
Published: October 2022

Background

Failed management of unanticipated difficult airway situations contributes to significant anesthesia‐related morbidity and mortality. Optimization of design and layout of difficult airway trolleys (DATs) may influence outcomes during airway emergencies. The main objective of the current study was to evaluate whether a difficult airway algorithm‐based DAT with integrated cognitive aids improves efficiency and team performance in difficult airway scenarios.

Methods

In a crossover design, 16 teams (anesthetist, nurse anesthetist, assistant nurse) completed two high‐fidelity simulated unanticipated difficult airway scenarios. Teams used both an algorithm‐based DAT and a comparison, standard DAT, in the scenarios and were randomized to order of trolley type. Outcome measures included objective efficiency parameters, team performance assessment and subjective user‐ratings. Linear mixed models ANOVA, including DAT type and order of condition as main factors, was utilized for the primary analyses of the team results.

Results

Usage of the algorithm‐based DAT was associated with fewer departures from the difficult airway algorithm (p = .010), and reduced number of unnecessary drawer openings (p = .002), but no significant differences in time to retrieval of airway devices or time to first effective ventilation, compared to the standard DAT. There were no significant differences in team performance, although participants expressed strong preference for the algorithm‐based DAT (all user‐rated measures p < .0001). Higher percentage of female members of the team improved adherence to the difficult airway algorithm (p = .043).

Conclusions

Algorithm‐based DATs with integrated cognitive aids may improve efficiency in difficult airway situations, compared to traditional DATs. These findings have implications for improvement of anesthetic practice.
The emperor has no clothes: a synthesis of findings from the Transformative Research on the Alcohol industry, Policy and Science research programme
Authors: McCambridge Jim , Mitchell Gemma , Lesch Matthew , Filippou Andreas , Golder Su , Garry Jack , Bartlett Andrew , Madden Mary
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims

The Transformative Research on the Alcohol industry, Policy and Science (TRAPS) programme investigates the alcohol industry, with an innovative focus on public health sciences. TRAPS adds to an under‐developed literature on the study of alcohol industry influence on alcohol science and policymaking. This paper provides a synthesis of TRAPS findings to inform future research.

Methods

We conducted an interpretive review of TRAPS research findings across its component studies, identifying and integrating the key contributions made by individual studies to the literature on alcohol policymaking and science, and identifying areas where TRAPS progress was limited. This produced themes for consideration in future research agenda setting.

Results

TRAPS explored the interventions of the alcohol industry in science and policymaking using various methods, including systematic reviews and qualitative interviews. These studies identified the industry’s activities in several key areas, such as the debate over minimum unit pricing (MUP), cardiovascular health and alcohol research and a long‐running public relations programme developed in close connection with the tobacco industry. Collectively, the research shows that alcohol policymaking has involved a contest between the research community and alcohol industry actors about whether and how science should be used to inform policy.

Conclusions

The TRAPS programme demonstrates the need for a transdisciplinary approach to understand the nature of corporate political activity; the crucial role industry involvement in science plays in the development of corporate political power; and how public health actors have successfully overcome industry opposition to evidence‐based policies. Advances in alcohol policy should be underpinned by strong, reflexive public health sciences, alert to the role of industry in the alcohol harms under study and thorough in their investigation of the alcohol industry as an object of study in itself.
Gap volume and sealer penetration of C‐shaped root canals obturated with cold hydraulic technique and calcium silicate sealer
Authors: Wisawawatin Dheparit , Yanpiset Kallaya , Banomyong Danuchit , Jantarat Jeeraphat
Published: October 2022

This study compared the gap volume and sealer penetration in C‐shaped root canals prepared with adaptive core rotary files and obturated with cold hydraulic compaction using calcium‐silicate sealer, warm vertical hybrid compaction, or lateral compaction using epoxy‐resin sealer. Thirty‐six extracted mandibular molars with pulpal floor configuration Types I and III were used. The teeth were prepared using XP‐Shaper and XP‐Finisher and obturated with: group 1: cold hydraulic compaction/calcium silicate, group 2: warm vertical hybrid compaction/epoxy resin, or group 3: lateral compaction/epoxy resin. The gap volume was evaluated using μ‐CT. The sealer penetration depth and area were evaluated using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The gap volume in groups 1, 2, and 3 was 0.82%, 0.24%, 0.80%, respectively, which were not significantly different (p > 0.05). The gap volumes in the obturated C‐shaped canals were not significantly different among the CHC/CSBS, WHC/ERS, or LC/ERS groups. CHC/CSBS was the most convenient technique.
Lower tacrolimus time in therapeutic range is associated with inferior outcomes in adult liver transplant recipients
Authors: Song Wei , Lao Qianying , Hu Jinwei , Li Danying , Du Yao , Zhu Huaijun
Published: October 2022

Previous studies on solid organ transplantation have reported that a low time in therapeutic range (TTR) of tacrolimus increases the risk of poor outcomes. However, the reproducibility of the findings in liver transplantation has not yet been confirmed. The TTR, coefficient of variation (CV) and standard deviation (SD) were calculated for 207 adult liver transplant patients from the date of transplantation until the first episode of acute rejection (AR), graft loss, acute kidney injury (AKI), biliary complications, infection or the last follow‐up. Kaplan–Meier curves, log‐rank tests and Cox regression analyses were performed. Sixty‐one (29.5%) patients reached the composite endpoint of AR, biliary complications and graft loss. The log‐rank test indicated that the low TTR group had an increased risk of the composite endpoint (P < 0.001), AKI (P < 0.001) and infection (P < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that a 10% decrease in TTR was associated with an increased hazard for composite endpoint (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.185, P = 0.010), AKI (HR: 1.355, P < 0.001) and infection (HR: 1.357, P < 0.001). Unexpectedly, SD and CV demonstrated no association with the above‐mentioned inferior outcomes. Compared with SD and CV, the TTR of tacrolimus was more correlated with inferior outcomes and may be a novel indicator for predicting the prognosis of liver transplantation.
Electronic effect‐dependent intramolecular non‐covalent interactions on the activity of 4,4‐dimethylimidazolidin‐2‐one pharmacophore‐based androgen receptor antagonists
Authors: Yaragani Muralikrishna , Yadlapalli Prasad , Raghavan Sriram , Giridhar Thota , Mandava Venkata Basaveswara Rao , Singh Ravindra Vikram , Kottapalli Rajasekhara Prasad , Chinnusamy Saravanan
Published: October 2022

Because androgen receptor (AR) signalling is important for the development and progression of prostate cancer (PC), AR antagonists are utilized in clinical practices to treat PC and are referred to as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). However, continued administration of AR antagonists often results in the development of resistance, known as castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Despite castration, it has been demonstrated that AR signalling continues to be fundamental to tumour growth. In this regard, a series of readily synthesizable 4,4‐dimethylimidazolidine‐2‐one pharmacophore‐based AR antagonists (FAR01‐FAR11) were designed and synthesized. Androgen‐dependent LNCaP PC cell line was used to test the AR‐antagonist activity of these compounds in vitro and compared with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved second‐generation enzalutamide. In our previous work, rigid thiohydantoin pharmacophore in enzalutamide is replaced by the flexible 4,4‐dimethylimidazolidin‐2‐one. In order to improve the flexibility further, one methylene group is introduced between the pharmacophore and one of the aromatic ring. Despite the fact that the amide functional group is a crucial characteristic for building AR antagonists, this class of molecules lacks one. FAR06 has the exact same activity as enzalutamide (IC50: 0.782 μM) with an IC50 value of 0.801 μM among the series of compounds.
The use and ethical assessment of medical photos taken by physicians
Authors: Demir Karabulut Seyhan
Published: October 2022

With the increased use of technology, the use of medical photography has also increased, especially for secondary purposes. Secondary use only results in a benefit for clinicians and is considered a one‐way process. This, in turn, raises several potential ethical issues, despite the numerous benefits of medical photography. The descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted with 82 physicians who took medical photos, in Ankara, Turkey. The mean age of the participants was 44.7 years. Of the participants, 95.1% reported using their personal mobile phones for photographing and 84.1% reported taking medical photos for “use in clinical trainings (clinical seminars, student and patient trainings, etc.)”. Among physicians who took photos for research purposes, 29.3% reported obtaining only verbal consent. In addition, 53.7% of physicians reported storing medical photos on their personal computers. It seems that there is no consensus among physicians regarding taking, storing, and using medical photos, and these results cause ethical problems.
Re‐emphasis on the role of echocardiography in diagnosis of aortic root surgery complications
Authors: Nakhaee Akram , Parkhideh Roya , Rahmanian Mehrzad , Pouraliakbar Hamidreza , Sardari Akram , Larti Farnoosh , Badkoubeh Roya Sattarzadeh
Published: October 2022

Background

Aortic pseudoaneurysm is an infrequent complication of ascending aorta surgery.

Cases

This is a report of two cases that underwent the Bentall procedure that presented with large pseudoaneurysms.

Conclusion

Use of multimodality imaging after Bentall surgery has been advocated for the detection of surgical complications. Although 3D CT angiography has the highest diagnostic accuracy, familiarity with transthoracic echocardiographic finding in these patients will lead to earlier diagnosis.
Oceanic giants dance to atmospheric rhythms: Ephemeral wind‐driven resource tracking by blue whales
Authors: Ryan John P. , Benoit‐Bird Kelly J. , Oestreich William K. , Leary Paul , Smith Kevin B. , Waluk Chad M. , Cade David E. , Fahlbusch James A. , Southall Brandon L. , Joseph John E. , Margolina Tetyana , Calambokidis John , DeVogelaere Andrew , Goldbogen Jeremy A.
Published: October 2022

Trophic transfer of energy through marine food webs is strongly influenced by prey aggregation and its exploitation by predators. Rapid aggregation of some marine fish and crustacean forage species during wind‐driven coastal upwelling has recently been discovered, motivating the hypothesis that predators of these forage species track the upwelling circulation in which prey aggregation occurs. We examine this hypothesis in the central California Current Ecosystem using integrative observations of upwelling dynamics, forage species' aggregation, and blue whale movement. Directional origins of blue whale calls repeatedly tracked upwelling plume circulation when wind‐driven upwelling intensified and aggregation of forage species was heightened. Our findings illustrate a resource tracking strategy by which blue whales may maximize energy gain amid ephemeral foraging opportunities. These findings have implications for the ecology and conservation of diverse predators that are sustained by forage populations whose behaviour is responsive to episodic environmental dynamics.
Performance improvement and Lyapunov stability analysis of nonlinear systems using hybrid optimization techniques
Authors: Srivastava Vishal , Srivastava Smriti , Chaudhary Gopal , Blanco Valencia Xiomara Patricia
Published: October 2022

Using Hybrid optimization algorithms for nonlinear systems analysis is a novel approach. It is a powerful technique that uses the exploitation ability of one algorithm and the exploration ability of another algorithm, to find the best solution. Literature survey reveals that hybrid algorithms not only show quality response but also give faster convergence of error for nonlinear systems. In this paper, hybrid optimization techniques based proportional integral derivative (PID) controller is used for benchmark problems: Continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR), Inverted pendulum and blood glucose system. Two recent hybrid algorithms: Particle swarm optimization‐Gravitational search algorithm (PSO‐GSA) and Particle swarm optimization‐Grey wolf algorithm (PSO‐GWO) are implemented to control the temperature and concentration of CSTR, pendulum angle of inverted pendulum, glucose concentration and insulin level of blood glucose system. In PID and PSOGWO algorithms, the exploration abilities of GSA and GWO combined with the exploitation ability of PSO have been used. The performance of these algorithms is then compared with individual PSO, GSA, and GWO algorithms proving their superiority. Stability is ensured using the Lyapunov approach while the robustness of the systems is checked using the parameter perturbation technique. Simulation results show substantial improvement in the performance of these systems by using these meta‐heuristic hybrid optimization techniques. A comparative analysis of these algorithms has also been done.
Obesity and diabetes in people of African ancestry with HIV
Authors: Cechin Laura , Norcross Claire , Oliveira Amelia , Hopkins David , McGowan Barbara , Post Frank A.
Published: October 2022

Obesity is a chronic disease with multiple adverse effects on health. The prevalence of obesity is increasing worldwide, and people of African ancestry are disproportionally affected. Several widely used antiretrovirals have been associated with weight gain and contribute to the rising burden of obesity in people with HIV. Obesity and weight gain on antiretroviral therapy are risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, a condition which also disproportionally affects black populations. In this review, we discuss recent data on weight gain in relation to initiating or switching antiretroviral therapy and advances in the management of obesity. Availability of highly effective treatments for obesity have the potential to address, and potentially reverse, the epidemics of obesity and diabetes mellitus in people with HIV.
Preparation and characterisation of soy protein isolated particle film homogenised at different pressures
Authors: Su Shuang , Xiao Zhigang , Wang Yifan , Jiang Ruisheng , Huo Jinjie , Li Hang , Zhu Minpeng , Gao Yuzhe , Duan Yumin
Published: October 2022

The aim of this article was to study the effect of homogenisation pressure on the microstructure of soy protein isolated (SPI) particles, the size of SPI particles and the properties of SPI particle films. Particle films were prepared by homogenising SPI particles at different pressures (0, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 MPa), and their optical properties, water resistance and mechanical properties were investigated. With increasing homogenisation pressure, the particle size of SPI decreased from 5123 to 295.7 nm, more homogeneous and compact network structures with good integrity were gradually constructed, and α‐helices and β‐turns transited to β‐sheets and random coils. Compared to natural SPI films, the opacity value and swelling ratio of SPI particle films were reduced by 48% and 31%, respectively, and the mechanical properties increased by 47% at 90 MPa. This study offered a theoretical basis for the application of protein particle films.
First record of mudskipper Boleophthalmus dussumieri (Gobiidae: Oxudercinae) on the coast of Mozambique and evidence of two putative lineages along its known distribution range
Authors: Muhala Valdemiro , Guimarães‐Costa Aurycéia , Macate Isadola Eusébio , Tembe Sara , Mula Yolanda , Tóvela Érica , Bessa‐Silva Adam Rick , Vallinoto Marcelo , Sampaio Iracilda
Published: October 2022

Boleophthalmus dussumieri is one of the most widely distributed mudskippers and is native to the Persian Gulf in Iran down to the northeast of the Arabian Sea and the coast of India. Nonetheless, the present study is the first to confirm the presence of B. dussumieri in the marine areas of the Mozambique coast. In addition, molecular analysis revealed strong evidence for the existence of two lineages with a high level of nucleotide divergence along the sampled area, revealing a still‐neglected taxonomic condition for this lineage/species.
Lost and Found in Translation: How Firms Use Anisomorphism to Manage the Institutional Complexity of CSR
Authors: Corciolani Matteo , Giuliani Elisa , Humphreys Ashlee , Nieri Federica , Tuan Annamaria , Zajac Edward J.
Published: October 2022

Prior research on the internationalization of firms from emerging countries has fruitfully invoked institutional theory to emphasize the legitimacy benefits that firms that obtain from showing isomorphism with international norms such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Without denying the intuitive appeal for these firms to communicate acceptance of CSR, we suggest that firms face a legitimacy trade‐off, where the hoped‐for legitimacy benefits of isomorphism must be weighed against other home‐country institutional considerations. We advance and test this notion that firms will navigate this institutional complexity by engaging in anisomorphism, i.e., espousing general acceptance with international values but with selective ‘translation’ based on home country differences. We test our predictions by analysing firms' communication of CSR, using a unique dataset comprised of 245 firms observed over the period from 2000 to 2018. Consistent with our predictions, we find that firms from countries more reliant on natural resource extraction (e.g., mining and fossil fuel industries) de‐emphasize the environmental component of CSR, and firms from more autocratic countries de‐emphasize the human rights component of CSR. Additionally, and consistent with our presumption of firms' weighing the international versus home‐country legitimacy trade‐off, we find that these main effects are sensitive to changes in firms' levels of internationalization.
Mexican–American caregivers' perceptions of a culturally adapted transition planning program for youth with autism
Authors: Aleman‐Tovar Janeth , Burke Meghan M. , Monárrez Edwin
Published: October 2022

The transition from adolescence to adulthood is difficult for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families because they must learn to navigate the complex adult disability service delivery system. For Latinx (vs. White) families of youth with ASD, this period is especially difficult because of the systemic barriers (e.g., language and cultural differences) they face when accessing services. To support Latinx families, effective and culturally responsive supports (e.g. culturally tailored programs) are critical. To this end, the purpose of this study is to describe the cultural adaptation of a transition planning program (i.e., ASSIST) for Latinx families of youth with ASD. First, we culturally adapted the curriculum using the Ecological Validity Framework (Bernal et al., 1995) and the Cultural Sensitivity (CS) model (Resnicow et al., 1999). Then, we presented the culturally adapted curriculum to eight Mexican–American caregivers of youth with ASD. Specifically, we conducted three individual interviews with each participant (N = 24 interviews altogether) to examine their perceptions of the six sessions of the culturally adapted curriculum. Based on their feedback, changes were made to the curriculum. Overall, participants reported positive perceptions of the culturally adapted curriculum, but suggested the following recommendations: include information related to mixed‐status families, add information about guardianship, and use the translation technique of borrowing for specific terms. Based on the findings, implications for research and practice are discussed.
GATA2 regulates blood/lymph separation in a platelet‐dependent and lymphovenous valve‐independent manner
Authors: Mahamud Md. Riaj , Geng Xin , Chen Lijuan , Ahmed Zoheb , Ho Yenchun , Srinivasan R. Sathish
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Lymphatic vessels collect interstitial fluid, immune cells, and digested lipids and return these bodily fluids to blood through two pairs of lymphovenous valves (LVVs). Like other cardiovascular valves LVVs prevent the backflow of blood into the lymphatic vessels. In addition to LVVs, platelets are necessary to prevent the entry of blood into the lymphatic vessels. Platelet thrombi are observed at LVVs suggesting that LVVs and platelets function in synergy to regulate blood/lymphatic separation.

Objectives

The primary objective of this work is to determine whether platelets can regulate blood/lymph separation independently of LVVs.

Methods

The transcription factor GATA2 is necessary for the development of both LVVs and hematopoietic stem cells. Using various endothelial‐ and hematopoietic cell expressed Cre‐lines, we conditionally deleted Gata2. We hypothesized that this strategy would identify the tissue‐ and time‐specific roles of GATA2 and reveal whether platelets and LVVs can independently regulate blood/lymph separation.

Results

Lymphatic vasculature‐specific deletion of Gata2 results in the absence of LVVs without compromising blood/lymph separation. In contrast, deletion of GATA2 from both lymphatic vasculature and hematopoietic cells results in the absence of LVVs, reduced number of platelets and blood‐filled lymphatic vasculature.

Conclusion

GATA2 promotes blood/lymph separation through platelets. Furthermore, LVVs are the only known sites of interaction between blood and lymphatic vessels. The fact that blood is able to enter the lymphatic vessels of mice lacking LVVs and platelets indicates that under these circumstances the lymphatic and blood vessels are connected at yet to be identified sites.
The metamorphosis of "Butterfly"
Authors: Tao Shilong , Chen Xi
Published: October 2022

In 2017, David Henry Hwang reworked his Tony Award‐winning play M. Butterfly (1988). This paper explores how Hwang wrote and rewrote M. Butterfly from the perspective of ethical literary criticism, probing into the role of brain text played in the process of drama writing. By investigating the variations of the Madame Butterfly story—from love legend to spy story—and the Madame Butterfly image—from Madame Butterfly to M. Butterfly, from Oriental Butterfly to Chinese Butterfly—this paper explains the forming of Hwang's brain text and his creation of M. Butterfly, the decoding of brain text and his writing of two Monsieur Butterflies, as well as the recoding of brain text and his building of a new cultural identity. It argues that brain text determines the playwright's writings and styles, and the dynamic revisions of M. Butterfly can be the manifestation and reconstruction of Hwang's brain texts, which represent his ethical choices made in the process of writing and rewriting. The metamorphosis of “Butterfly” in the two scripts of M. Butterfly reveals the playwright's dynamic thoughts on culture, gender, and identity: cultural stereotypes and the power relation between East and West; the cultural misunderstanding of Orientalism; and gender identity and fluidity in the twenty‐first century.
Is there a trade‐off between housing and pension system generosity? Empirical evidence from the Luxembourg Wealth Study
Authors: Marcinkiewicz Edyta , Chybalski Filip
Published: October 2022

This study contributes to the discussion about the role of housing in the old‐age security. It attempts to identify some patterns concerning wealth accumulation preferences among elderly households. We pose a question whether these patterns can be associated with pension generosity measured by the level of income replacement. The study employs micro‐data from the Luxembourg Wealth Study dataset. Using statistical analysis and multinomial logistic regression modelling we examine housing wealth patterns among elderly households with a special focus on the possible linkage between housing and pension system's generosity. The results of cross‐country comparisons imply that there are large country differences in terms of housing wealth accumulation. Analyses of the relationship between (average) pension system generosity and the (average) share of housing assets in total assets at the country level using aggregated values do not provide any evidence for the pensions‐housing trade‐off. However, when the level of aggregation is reduced, a different picture emerges. Especially when the households having very small or no housing assets relative to total assets are excluded, it becomes clearer that individuals receiving higher pension tend to differentiate their asset portfolio. A possible explanation for this result could be that housing equity becomes less attractive as its role of old‐age security is limited by pension generosity.
The use of subchondral bone topography to approximate the center of rotation of the elbow joint in dogs
Authors: Berger Chen , Yair Nadav , Amzallag Lombrozo Roni , Doust Ross , Ober Ciprian , Milgram Joshua
Published: October 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the approximate center of rotation in normal and diseased elbows in dogs.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study

Sample population

Computer tomography scans of nine dogs with unilateral fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP).

Methods

A board certified radiologist confirmed that each dog had unilateral FMCP, and a normal contralateral elbow. Digital 3D models of all elbow joints were uploaded into a surgical planning software package. Four axes approximating the center of rotation (COR) of elbow joints were generated using five geometric shapes based on subchondral topography of the humeral condyle radius and ulna. Images showing the locations where axes exited the medial and lateral cortex of the humeral condyle were captured and imported into a second software package, for measurement of distances between exit points and the origin of a system of axes.

Results

In normal joints 20/27 (74%) axes exited the medial cortex, and 25/27 (93%) axes exited the lateral cortex cranial and distal to the medial and lateral epicondyles, respectively. In diseased joints 22/27 (81%) axes exited medial cortex and 19/27 (70%) axes exited the lateral cortex, caudal and distal to the medial and lateral epicondyles, respectively.

Conclusion

Based on CT‐ derived geometry, the COR of elbow affected with FMCP was generally more caudal than normal.

Clinical significance

External landmarks approximating the location of the elbow COR are provided, and while not validated, may assist in planning, creation, and assessment of procedures for FMCP.
Morphometric analysis of the Daphne kiusiana complex (Thymelaeaceae) using digitized herbarium specimens
Authors: KIM Yoon-Su , OH Sang-Hun
Published: October 2022

Daphne kiusiana is an evergreen shrub with dense head-like umbels of white flowers distributed in southern Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan. Plants in China and Taiwan are recognized as var. atrocaulis by having a dark purple stem, elliptic leaves, and persistent bracts. Recently, plants on Jejudo Island were segregated as a separate species, D. jejudoensis, given their elliptic leaves with an acuminate apex, a long hypanthium and sepals, and a glabrous hypanthium. Morphological variations of three closely related taxa, the D. kiusiana complex, were investigated across the distributional range to clarify the taxonomic delimitation of members of the complex. Twelve characters of the leaf and flower were measured from digitized herbarium specimens using the image analysis program ImageJ and were included in a morphometric analysis, the results of which indicate that the level of variation in the characters is very high. The results of a principal component analysis weakly separated D. jejudoensis from D. kiusiana according to their floral characteristics, such as a longer, glabrous hypanthium, and larger sepals. However, some individuals of D. kiusiana, particularly those from Bigeumdo Island, were included in D. jejudoensis. Recognition of D. kiusiana var. atrocaulis based on the leaf shape was not supported in the analysis, and D. jejudoensis may be recognized as a variety of D. kiusiana. Our morphometric analysis shows that digitized images of herbarium specimens could be useful and an additional method by which to investigate more diverse specimens.
New record of an alien plant, Verbena bracteata (Verbenaceae) in Korea
Authors: KIM Jung-Hyun , SHIM Sang Deog , CHO Kyu Tae , KIM Hyun Sik , HYUN Chang Woo , PARK Jin Hee
Published: October 2022

Verbena bracteata Cav. ex Lag. & Rodr. (Verbenaceae), native to North America and an alien plant in China and Japan, was newly found in central and southern areas of Korea. This species can be distinguished from other Verbena taxa in Korea by having larger floral bracts and stems that are prostrate or procumbent to decumbent-ascending. Verbena bracteata grows in dry and sunny grasslands or along roadsides. A precise description, illustration, photographs, and a key to related taxa are provided.
Existence of local and global solution for a spatio-temporal predator-prey model
Authors: Cano-Macias Ricardo , Ruiz-Vera Jorge Mauricio
Published: October 2022

In this paper we prove the existence and uniqueness of weak solutions for a kind of Lotka–Volterra system, by using successive linearization techniques. This approach has the advantage to treat two equations separately in each iteration step. Under suitable initial conditions, we construct an invariant region to show the global existence in time of solutions for the system. By means of Sobolev embeddings and regularity results, we find estimates for predator and prey populations in adequate norms. In order to demonstrate the convergence properties of the introduced method, several numerical examples are given.
Ontology Network-Based In-Situ Sensor Selection for Quality Management in Metal Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Roh Byeong-Min , Kumara Soundar R. T. , Yang Hui , Simpson Timothy W. , Witherell Paul , Jones Albert T. , Lu Yan
Published: October 2022

Metal additive manufacturing (MAM) offers a larger design space with greater manufacturability than traditional manufacturing. Despite continued advances, MAM processes still face huge uncertainty, resulting in variable part quality. Real-time sensing for MAM processing helps quantify uncertainty by detecting build failure and process anomalies. While the high volume of multidimensional sensor data—such as melt-pool geometries and temperature gradients—is beginning to be explored, sensor selection does not yet effectively link sensor data to part quality. To begin investigating such connections, we propose network-based models that capture in real-time (1) sensor data's association with process variables and (2) as-built part qualities’ association with related physical phenomena. These sensor models and networks lay the foundation for a comprehensive framework to monitor and manage the quality of MAM process outcomes.
Effect of Intake Charge Temperature on Oxy-Fuel Combustion in an HCCI Diesel Engine Under Different Carbon Dioxide Dilutions
Authors: Mobasheri Raouf , Aitouche Abdel , Mumputu J. B. , Li Xiang , Peng Zhijun
Published: October 2022

Carbon dioxide is one of the leading contributors to global warming. Oxy-fuel combustion (OFC) integrated with carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology is an efficient way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. In OFC, pure oxygen (O2) is used instead of air to react with hydrocarbon fuel. Consequently, the products of combustion mainly include carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor (H2O) under lean conditions. Meanwhile, due to the absence of N2 in the intake charge, nitrogen-related emissions such as NOx are greatly removed from the exhaust gases. In the present study, the effect of intake charge temperature on OFC has been investigated in a diesel engine under the homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) mode. In order to control combustion temperature and avoid overheating problems caused by oxygen in OFC, a portion of the exhaust CO2 was added to the O2. For this purpose, different CO2 dilutions ranging from 79-85% have been employed. It has been found that OFC can significantly reduce CO and particulate matter (PM) emissions while eliminating NOx emissions. With a higher intake charge temperature, combustion occurs earlier with shorter main stages, reducing the indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) and increasing the indicated specific fuel consumption (ISFC), whereas, with a lower intake charge temperature, combustion stability deteriorates leading to incomplete OFC. By raising the intake charge temperature from 140 °C to 220 °C and applying 21% O2 and 79% CO2 v/v, the indicated thermal efficiency (ITE) is reduced from 34.6% to 29.2% while ISFC is increased from 0.24 to 0.285 Kg/kWh.