bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-adolescent children exhibit lower aerosol particle volume emissions than adults for breathing, speaking, singing and shouting
Authors: Fleischer Mario , Schumann Lukas , Hartmann Anne , Walker Reuben Scott , Ifrim Liliana , von Zadow Dorothea , Lüske Jonas , Seybold Joachim , Kriegel Martin , Mürbe Dirk
Published: February 2022

Speaking and singing are activities linked to increased aerosol particle emissions from the respiratory system, dependent on the utilized vocal intensity. As a result, these activities have experienced considerable restrictions in enclosed spaces since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic due to the risk of infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, transmitted by virus-carrying aerosols. These constraints have affected public education and extracurricular activities for children as well, from in-person music instruction to children’s choirs. However, existing risk assessments for children have been based on emission measurements of adults. To address this, we measured the particle emission rates of 15 pre-adolescent children, all eight to ten years old, with a laser particle counter for the test conditions: breathing at rest, speaking, singing and shouting. Compared with values taken from 15 adults, emission rates for breathing, speaking and singing were significantly lower for children. Particle emission rates were reduced by a factor of 4.3 across all conditions, whereas emitted particle volume rates were reduced by a factor of 4.8. These data can supplement SARS-CoV-2 risk management scenarios for various school and extracurricular settings.
Gut microbiome alterations in fecal samples of treatment-naïve de novo Parkinson’s disease patients
Authors: Boertien Jeffrey M , Murtomäki Kirsi , Pereira Pedro AB , van der Zee Sygrid , Mertsalmi Tuomas H , Levo Reeta , Nojonen Tanja , Mäkinen Elina , Jaakkola Elina , Laine Pia , Paulin Lars , Pekkonen Eero , Kaasinen Valtteri , Auvinen Petri , Scheperjans Filip , van Laar Teus
Published: February 2022

Gut microbiota alterations in Parkinson’s disease (PD) have been found in several studies and are suggested to contribute to the pathogenesis of PD. However, previous results could not be adequately adjusted for a potential confounding effect of PD medication and disease duration, as almost all PD participants were already using dopaminergic medication and were included several years after diagnosis. Here, the gut microbiome composition of treatment-naïve de novo PD subjects was assessed compared to healthy controls (HC) in two large independent case-control cohorts (n=136 and 56 PD, n=85 and 87 HC), using 16S-sequencing of fecal samples. Relevant variables such as technical batches, diet and constipation were assessed for their potential effects.

Overall gut microbiome composition differed between PD and HC in both cohorts, suggesting gut microbiome alterations are already present in de novo PD subjects at the time of diagnosis, without the possible confounding effect of dopaminergic medication. Although no differentially abundant taxon could be replicated in both cohorts, multiple short chain fatty acids (SCFA) producing taxa were decreased in PD in both cohorts. In particular, several taxa belonging to the family Lachnospiraceae were decreased in abundance. Fewer taxonomic differences were found compared to previous studies, indicating smaller effect sizes in de novo PD.

Trial registration

DUPARC: NCT04180865

NMDAT: NCT02650843
Using Best-Worst Scaling to investigate younger adult Canadians’ preferences for COVID-19 vaccination and public health measures: an observational study
Authors: Tatar Ovidiu , Haward Ben , Zhu Patricia , Griffin-Mathieu Gabrielle , Perez Samara , Zimet Gregory , Rosberger Zeev
Published: February 2022

Containing the COVID-19 pandemic is dependent on compliance with public health recommendations and mandates which is lower in younger compared to older adults. Furthermore, younger adults have demonstrated lower uptake of COVID-19 vaccines. The aim of this study was to assess preferences for COVID-19 related preventive health measures and vaccination and to explore their association with COVID-19 vaccine acceptability. Canadians aged 18-39 years were invited to participate in a web-based survey in August 2021. We used the Best-Worst-Scale (BWS) methodology to collect and analyze preference data and multivariable binary logistic regression to estimate associations with vaccine acceptability. Based on 266 complete responses, we found strong preferences for physical distancing and wearing face masks, as compared to general hygiene and respiratory etiquette. High vaccine accessibility independent of the location, receiving successive doses of the same vaccine brand and higher vaccine uptake of people in younger adults’ social circle were highly preferred. Higher preferences for mandates requiring proof of vaccination and altruistic motives for vaccination were associated with vaccine acceptability. As the COVID-19 pandemic waxes and wanes, studies using larger, nationally representative samples are needed to replicate and validate these results to assess preferences for health behaviors corresponding to the latest recommendations. The use of this methodology could provide public health authorities with a unique opportunity to develop targeted, preference-based messaging that aligns with the latest guidelines to effectively encourage compliance and COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
Early emergence phase of SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant in Florida
Authors: Cella Eleonora , Ali Sobur , Schmedes Sarah E. , Rife Brittany , Marini Simone , Salemi Marco , Blanton Jason , Azarian Taj
Published: February 2022

SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, emerged in late 2020. The highly contagious B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant of Concern (VOC) was first identified in October 2020 in India and subsequently disseminated worldwide, later becoming the dominant lineage in the U.S. Despite considerable genomic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 in the U.S., several gaps in the understanding of the local dynamics during early introductions remain, which when elucidated could translate the results of viral genomic epidemiology to actionable mitigation efforts. Here, we explore the early emergence of the Delta variant in Florida, U.S. using phylogenetic analysis of representative Florida and globally sampled genomes. We find multiple independent introductions into Florida primarily from North America and Europe, with a minority originating from Asia. These introductions lead to three distinct clades that demonstrated varying relative rates of transmission and possessed five distinct substitutions that were 3-21 times more prevalent in the Florida sample as compared to the global sample. Our results underscore the benefits of routine viral genomic surveillance to monitor epidemic spread and support the need for more comprehensive genomic epidemiology studies of emerging variants. In addition, we provide a model of epidemic spread of newly emerging VOCs that can inform future public health responses.
Assessment and Optimization of the Interpretability of Machine Learning Models Applied to Transcriptomic Data
Authors: Zhao Yongbing , Shao Jinfeng , Asmann Yan W
Published: February 2022

Explainable artificial intelligence aims to interpret how the machine learning models make decisions, and many model explainers have been developed in the computer vision field. However, the understandings of the applicability of these model explainers to biological data are still lacking. In this study, we comprehensively evaluated multiple explainers by interpreting pretrained models of predicting tissue types from transcriptomic data, and by identifying top contributing genes from each sample with the greatest impacts on model prediction. To improve the reproducibility and interpretability of results generated by model explainers, we proposed a series of optimization strategies for each explainer on two different model architectures of Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). We observed three groups of explainer and model architecture combinations with high reproducibility. Group II, which contains three model explainers on aggregated MLP models, identified top contributing genes in different tissues that exhibited tissue-specific manifestation and were potential cancer biomarkers. In summary, our work provides novel insights and guidance for exploring biological mechanisms using explainable machine learning models.
Automated detection of speech timing alterations in autopsy-confirmed non-fluent/agrammatic variant primary progressive aphasia
Authors: García Adolfo M. , Welch Ariane E. , Mandelli Maria Luisa , Henry Maya L. , Lukic Sladjana , Torres-Prioris María José , Deleon Jessica , Ratnasiri Buddhika M. , Lorca Puls Diego L. , Miller Bruce L. , Seeley William W. , Vogel Adam P. , Gorno-Tempini Maria Luisa
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

Motor speech function, including speech timing, is a key domain for diagnosing non-fluent/agrammatic variant primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA). Yet, standard assessments employ subjective, specialist-dependent evaluations, undermining reliability and scalability. Moreover, few studies have examined relevant anatomo-clinical alterations in patients with pathologically-confirmed diagnoses. This study overcomes such caveats via automated speech timing analyses in a unique cohort of autopsy-proven cases.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, we administered an overt reading task and quantified articulation rate, mean syllable and pause duration, and syllable and pause duration variability. Neuroanatomical disruptions were assessed via cortical thickness and white matter atrophy analysis.

Results

We evaluated 22 persons with nfvPPA (mean age: 67.3; 13 females) and confirmed underlying four-repeat tauopathy, 15 persons with semantic variant primary progressive aphasia (svPPA; mean age: 66.5; 8 females), and 10 healthy controls (HCs; 70 years; 5 females). All five speech timing measures revealed alterations in persons with nfvPPA relative to both the HC and svPPA groups, controlling for dementia severity. Articulation rate robustly discriminated individuals with nfvPPA from HCs (AUC = .95), outperforming specialist-dependent perceptual measures of dysarthria and apraxia of speech severity. Patients with nfvPPA exhibited structural abnormalities in left precentral and middle frontal as well as bilateral superior frontal regions, including their underlying white matter. Articulation rate was associated with atrophy of the left pars opercularis and supplementary/presupplementary motor areas. Secondary analyses showed that, controlling for dementia severity, all measures yielded greater deficits in patients with nfvPPA and corticobasal degeneration (nfvPPA-CBD, n = 12) than in those with progressive supranuclear palsy pathology (nfvPPA-PSP, n = 10). Articulation rate robustly discriminated between individuals in each subgroup (AUC = .82). More widespread cortical thinning was observed for the nfvPPA-CBD than the nfvPPA-PSP group across frontal regions.

Discussion

Automated speech timing analyses can capture specific markers of nfvPPA while potentially discriminating between patients with different tauopathies. Thanks to its objectivity and scalability, this approach could support standard speech assessments.
Alterations in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron and Delta peptides presentation by HLA molecules
Authors: Nersisyan Stepan , Zhiyanov Anton , Zakharova Maria , Ishina Irina , Kurbatskaia Inna , Mamedov Azad , Galatenko Alexey , Shkurnikov Maxim , Gabibov Alexander , Tonevitsky Alexander
Published: February 2022

The T-cell immune response is a major determinant of effective SARS-CoV-2 clearance. Here, using the recently developed T-CoV bioinformatics pipeline (https://t-cov.hse.ru) we analyzed the peculiarities of the viral peptide presentation for the Omicron, Delta and Wuhan variants of SARS-CoV-2. First, we showed the absence of significant differences in the presentation of SARS-CoV-2-derived peptides by the most frequent HLA class I/II alleles and the corresponding HLA haplotypes. Then, the analysis was limited to the set of peptides originating from the Spike proteins of the considered SARS-CoV-2 variants. The major finding was the destructive effect of the Omicron mutations on PINLVRDLPQGFSAL peptide, which was the only tight binder from the Spike protein for HLA-DRB1*03:01 allele and some associated haplotypes. Specifically, we predicted a dramatical decline in binding affinity of HLA-DRB1*03:01 and this peptide after N211 deletion, L212I substitution and EPE 212-214 insertion. The computational prediction was experimentally validated by ELISA with the use of corresponding thioredoxin-fused peptides and recombinant HLA-DR molecules. Another finding was the significant reduction in the number of tightly binding Spike peptides for HLA-B*07:02 HLA class I allele (both for Omicron and Delta variants). Overall, the majority of HLA alleles and haplotypes was not significantly affected by the mutations, suggesting the maintenance of effective T-cell immunity against the Omicron and Delta variants. Finally, we introduced the Omicron variant to T-CoV portal and added the functionality of haplotype-level analysis to it.
A novel intranasal administration adenoviral vector-based platform for rapid COVID-19 vaccine development
Authors: Yuan Yifei , Gao Xing , Ni Fengfeng , Xie Wenbo , Fu Wenbin , Zhang Gaoxia , Hu Huimin , Li Yuncheng , Hu Qinxue , Huang Chuanmengyuan , Liu Bo , Liu Yalan , Shen Qiong , Liang Min
Published: February 2022

The coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has a severe impact on global public health, and the emerging variants threaten the efficacy of the circulating vaccines. Here, we report that a single vaccination with a non-replicating chimpanzee adenovirus-based vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant (JS1-delta) elicits potent humoral, cellular and mucosal immunity in mice. Additionally, a single intranasal administration of JS1-delta provides effective protection against the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant challenge in mice. This study indicates that chimpanzee adenovirus type 3 (ChAd3) derived vector represents a promising platform for antiviral vaccine development against respiratory infections and JS1-delta is worth further investigation in human clinical trials.

Highlights

A new chimpanzee adenoviral vaccine against the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant was developed.

The vaccine elicited potent humoral, cellular and mucosal immunity in mice.

The vaccine protected mice from the Delta variant challenge.
Cadmium-induced endocytosis of the broad spectrum root metal transporter of Arabidopsis
Authors: Spielmann Julien , Cointry Virginia , Neveu Julie , Vert Grégory
Published: February 2022

Iron is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. Under low iron conditions, Arabidopsis plants take up soil iron using the root iron transporter IRT1. In addition to iron, IRT1 also transports others divalent metals including cadmium that consequently accumulates into plant tissues and enters the food chain. IRT1 expression was shown to be regulated at the transcriptional and post-translational levels by its essential metal substrates to maximize iron uptake while limiting the accumulation of zinc, manganese or cobalt. Here, we characterized the regulation of IRT1 by cadmium and uncovered a cadmium-mediated downregulation of IRT1 protein by endocytosis. A short term exposure to cadmium indeed decreased the celle surface levels of IRT1 through endocytosis and degradation. This is mediated through the direct binding of cadmium to histidine residues within the regulatory loop of IRT1. Moreover, we demonstrated that cadmium-induced IRT1 degradation uses ubiquitin-mediated endocytosis driven by the IDF1 E3 ligase. Altogether, this work sheds light on the mechanisms of cadmium-mediated downregulation of IRT1 and offers a unique opportunity to boost plant cadmium uptake in phytoremediation/phytoextraction strategies.
Checks and balances of the RTG pathway under arginine deprivation and canavanine exposure in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Druseikis Marina E. , Covo Shay
Published: February 2022

Decades of research in Saccharomyces cerevisiae underlie the current dogma of mitochondrial retrograde (RTG) signaling: Rtg2-dependent translocation of the heterodimer Rtg1/Rtg3 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus induces the transcription of RTG-target genes under glutamate starvation or loss of respiration. We previously found that RTG mutants show severe growth inhibition from arginine deprivation and are highly sensitive to canavanine when grown on glucose. Here, we show that on solid media, RTG mutants are also sensitive to thialysine, a toxic lysine analog, although lysine deprivation causes a milder growth defect. Growth on an alternative carbon source restores RTG mutants’ ability to grow without arginine or lysine and improves their tolerance of toxic analogs; deletion of MIG1 affords a similar rescue on glucose and improves canavanine tolerance, except for in rtg2Δ. It is well known that the target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathway inhibits the RTG pathway. Batch growth experiments with or without TOR inhibition reveal phenotypic and regulatory differences between RTG mutants. rtg1Δ can sustain simultaneous canavanine exposure and TOR inhibition via rapamycin, but rtg2Δ and rtg3Δ cannot. Surprisingly, our data show that under fermentative lifestyle and arginine deprivation, both RTG signaling and TOR activity are required. This expands the universe of TOR and RTG signaling, suggesting bilateral communication rather than unidirectional RTG regulation by TOR. To the best of our knowledge, this work shows for the first time that Rtg3 activity can be separate from its role as a heterodimer with Rtg1. This work also strongly suggests a specific role for Rtg2 in canavanine tolerance.
LazyPair: scalable prediction of protein-protein interactions and interaction types
Authors: Lim Chun Shen , Bhandari Bikash K. , Gardner Paul P.
Published: February 2022

Motivation

Almost all cellular processes require protein-protein interactions. Common interaction types include binding, post-translational modifications, and catalysis. However, existing prediction tools do not take these interaction types into account and do not scale well on proteome-wide prediction.

Results

Here we show that a random forest classifier trained on per-residue physicochemical and biochemical properties is useful for predicting protein-protein interactions. Counterintuitively, we find that training random forests by individual interaction types improves accuracy. Furthermore, a combination of these specialised classifiers improves generalisability. We call our protein-protein interaction prediction tool LazyPair. More importantly, LazyPair outperforms the state-of-the-art in accuracy, generalisability and scalability.

Availability and implementation

LazyPair and the source code and data for reproducing our analysis are freely available at https://github.com/Gardner-BinfLab/PPI_Analysis_2022 and https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6071630. The web server version and the source code are freely available at https://tisigner.com/lazypair/ and https://github.com/Gardner-BinfLab/TISIGNER-ReactJS, respectively.
Application of the Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ) in Subjects with Overweight and Obesity living in Italy
Authors: Livia Quintiliani , Antonella Sisto , Flavia Vicinanza , Ilaria Bertoncini , Pasquarelli Valentina , Silvia Manfrini , Mikiko Watanabe , Dario Tuccinardi , Giuseppe Curcio
Published: February 2022

Aims

Although weight-based stigmatization is widespread in everyday life, a suitable measure of weight self-stigma is currently unavailable for those with overweight/obesity whose primary language is Italian. The purpose of this study was to translate and test the psychometric properties of the Italian version of the Weight Self-stigma Questionnaire (I-WSSQ) to administer it to adults with overweight/obesity.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 214 adults with overweight or obesity. Data including Body Mass Index (BMI), I-WSSQ, and Body Uneasiness Test (BUT) scores were collected from April the 2ndto July the 6th, 2021.

Results

Reliability was assessed through internal consistency: the Cronbach α of the I-WSSQ was α =.814, indicating good reliability. The exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure of I-WSSQ (self-devaluation and fear of enacted stigma, respectively) that explained 49,25% of the total variance. In addition, the I-WSSQ score directly correlated with BMI and BUT score, indicating an acceptable criterion-related validity.

Conclusion

The I-WSSQ shows adequate reliability and validity. Health professionals may use the I-WSSQ to assess the weight self-stigma of adults with overweight/obesity whose primary language is Italian.
Multi-ancestry Genome-wide Association Study of Varicose Veins Reveals Polygenic Architecture, Genetic Overlap with Arterial and Venous Disease, and Novel Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Levin Michael G. , Huffman Jennifer E. , Verma Anurag , Sullivan Kyle A. , Rodriguez Alexis A. , Kainer David , Garvin Michael R. , Lane Matthew , Won Hyejung , Li Binglan , Luo Yuan , Jarvik Gail P. , Hakonarson Hakon , Jasper Elizabeth A. , Bick Alexander G. , Ritchie Marylyn D. , Jacobson Daniel A. , Madduri Ravi K. , Damrauer Scott M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Varicose veins represent a common cause of cardiovascular morbidity, with limited available medical therapies. Although varicose veins are heritable and epidemiologic studies have identified several candidate varicose veins risk factors, the molecular and genetic basis remains uncertain. Here, we analyzed the contribution of common genetic variants to varicose veins using data from the VA Million Veteran Program and other large multi-ancestry biobanks. Among 49,765 individuals with varicose veins and 1,334,301 disease-free controls, we identified 139 risk loci. We identified genetic overlap between varicose veins, other vascular diseases, and dozens of anthropometric factors. Using Mendelian randomization, we prioritized novel therapeutic targets via integration of proteomic and transcriptomic data. Finally, topological enrichment analyses confirmed the biologic roles of endothelial shear flow disruption, inflammation, vascular remodeling, and angiogenesis. These findings may facilitate future efforts to develop non-surgical therapies for varicose veins.
Associative memory of structured knowledge
Authors: Steinberg Julia , Sompolinsky Haim
Published: February 2022

A long standing challenge in biological and artificial intelligence is to understand how new knowledge can be constructed from known building blocks in a way that is amenable for computation by neuronal circuits. Here we focus on the task of storage and recall of structured knowledge in long-term memory. Specifically, we ask how recurrent neuronal networks can store and retrievemultipleknowledge structures. We modeleachstructure as a set of binary relations between events and attributes (attributes may represent e.g., temporal order, spatial location, role in semantic structure), and map each structure to a distributed neuronal activity pattern using a vector symbolic architecture (VSA) scheme.

We then use associative memory plasticity rules to store the binarized patterns as fixed points in a recurrent network. By a combination of signal-to-noise analysis and numerical simulations, we demonstrate that our model allows for efficient storage of these knowledge structures, such that the memorized structures as well as their individual building blocks (e.g., events and attributes) can be subsequently retrieved from partial retrieving cues. We show that long-term memory of structured knowledge relies on a new principle of computation beyond the memory basins. Finally, we show that our model can be extended to store sequences of memories as single attractors.
Antimicrobial resistance in dairy slurry tanks: a critical point for measurement and control
Authors: Baker Michelle , Williams Alexander D , Hooton Steven P.T. , Helliwell Richard , King Elizabeth , Dodsworth Thomas , Baena-Nogueras Rosa María , Warry Andrew , Ortori Catherine A. , Todman Henry , Gray-Hammerton Charlotte J. , Pritchard Alexander C. W. , Iles Ethan , Cook Ryan , Emes Richard D. , Jones Michael A , Kypraios Theodore , West Helen , Barrett David A , Ramsden Stephen J , Gomes Rachel L , Hudson Chris , Millard Andrew D , Raman Sujatha , Morris Carol , Dodd Christine E R , Kreft Jan-Ulrich , Hobman Jon L , Stekel Dov J
Published: February 2022

Waste from dairy production is one of the world’s largest sources of contamination from antimicrobial resistant bacteria (ARB) and genes (ARGs). However, studies to date do not provide necessary evidence to inform antimicrobial resistance (AMR) countermeasures. We undertook a detailed, interdisciplinary, longitudinal analysis of dairy slurry waste. The slurry contained a population of ARB and ARGs, with resistances to current, historical and never-used on-farm antibiotics; resistances were associated with Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and mobile elements (ISEcp1, Tn916, Tn21-family transposons). Modelling and experimental work suggested that these populations are in dynamic equilibrium, with microbial death balanced by fresh input. Consequently, storing slurry without further waste input for at least 60 days was predicted to reduce ARB spread onto land, with >99% reduction in cephalosporin resistantEscherichia coli. The model also indicated that for farms with low antibiotic use, further reductions are unlikely to reduce AMR further. We conclude that the slurry tank is a critical point for prevalence and control of AMR, and that measures to limit the spread of AMR from dairy waste should combine responsible antibiotic use, including low total quantity, avoidance of human critical antibiotics, and choosing antibiotics with shorter half-lives, coupled with appropriate slurry storage.
A microfluidic platform for characterizing the structure and rheology of biofilm streamers
Authors: Savorana Giovanni , Słomka Jonasz , Stocker Roman , Rusconi Roberto , Secchi Eleonora
Published: February 2022

Biofilm formation is the most successful survival strategy for bacterial communities. In the biofilm lifestyle, bacteria embed themselves in a self-secreted matrix of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which acts as a shield against mechanical and chemical insults. When ambient flow is present, this viscoelastic scaffold can take a streamlined shape, forming biofilm filaments suspended in flow, called streamers. Streamers significantly disrupt the fluid flow by causing rapid clogging and affect transport in aquatic environments. Despite their relevance, the structural and rheological characterization of biofilm streamers is still at an early stage. In this work, we present a microfluidic platform that allows the reproducible growth of biofilm streamers in controlled physico-chemical conditions and the characterization of their biochemical composition, morphology, and rheologyin situ. We employed isolated micropillars as nucleation sites for the growth of single biofilm streamers under the continuous flow of a diluted bacterial suspension. By combining fluorescent staining of the EPS components and epifluorescence microscopy, we were able to characterize the biochemical composition and morphology of the streamers. Additionally, we optimized a protocol to perform hydrodynamic stress testsin situ, by inducing controlled variations of the fluid shear stress exerted on the streamers by the flow. Thus, the reproducibility of the formation process and the testing protocol make it possible to perform several consistent experimental replicates that provide statistically significant information. By allowing the systematic investigation of the role of biochemical composition on the structure and rheology of streamers, this platform will advance our understanding of biofilm formation.
Sonic hedgehog-dependent recruitment of GABAergic interneurons into the developing visual thalamus
Authors: Somaiya Rachana Deven , Stebbins Katelyn , Gingrich Ellen C. , Xie Hehuang , Campbell John N. , Garcia A. Denise R. , Fox Michael A.
Published: February 2022

Axons of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) play critical roles in the development of inhibitory circuits in visual thalamus. We previously reported that RGC axons signal astrocytes to induce the expression of fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15), a motogen required for GABAergic interneuron migration into visual thalamus. However, how retinal axons induce thalamic astrocytes to generate Fgf15 and influence interneuron migration remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that impairing RGC activity had little impact on interneuron recruitment into mouse visual thalamus. Instead, our data show that retinal-derived sonic hedgehog (SHH) is essential for interneuron recruitment. Specifically, we show that thalamus-projecting RGCs express SHH and thalamic astrocytes generate downstream components of SHH signaling. Deletion of RGC-derived SHH leads to a significant decrease in Fgf15 expression, as well as in the percentage of interneurons recruited into visual thalamus. Thus, our findings identify a morphogen-dependent neuron-astrocyte signaling mechanism essential for the migration of thalamic interneurons.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 2-amino-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)-6-oxo-1-phenyl-1,4,5,6-tetrahydropyridine-3-carbonitrile
Authors: Asadov Khammed A. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Dobrokhotova Ekaterina V. , Akkurt Mehmet , Huseynova Afet T. , Akobirshoeva Anzurat A. , Huseynov Elnur Z.
Published: February 2022

The central tetrahydropyridine ring of the title compound, C19H17N3O2, adopts a screw-boat conformation. In the crystal, strong C—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds form dimers with R
2
2(14) and R
2
2(12) ring motifs, respectively, between consecutive molecules along the c-axis direction. Intermolecular N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds connect these dimers, forming a three-dimensional network. C—H...π interactions and π–π stacking interactions contribute to the stabilization of the molecular packing. A Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the contributions from the most prevalent interactions are H...H (47.1%), C...H/H...C (20.9%), O...H/H...O (15.3%) and N...H/H...N (11.4%).
Exploring blockchain in the accounting domain: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Lardo Alessandra , Corsi Katia , Varma Ashish , Mancini Daniela
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Considering the growing interests in managerial and accounting issues related to blockchain technology (BT), the study aims at identifying the main research venues in this specific field. In particular, the purpose is to understand the spatial and temporal production and distribution of research documents, highlighting the most relevant topics, the most influential authors and research.

Design/methodology/approach

This research carries out a bibliometric analysis of 189 research documents in the business, management and accounting areas. Data collection and refining is carried out from the Scopus database. The data analysis is based on a hybrid literature review approach using a descriptive bibliometric method, data analysis visualization (through VOSViewer software) and thematic analysis.

Findings

Results indicate that research studies focused on BT and accounting have been growing exponentially over the last three years, with authors who previously focused on generalist themes, and are now facing more specific issues. Through cluster analysis, the authors propose the framework of accounting domain and blockchain technology (ADOB) to systematize and visualize the map of current studies about the BT in the accounting domain.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis highlights some aspects less investigated at the first research stage in the field of BT and accounting, such as the growing need of new accounting and control processes to address the practical issues of BT implementation and the need for education and training to stimulate a proper use of BT by accountants and practitioners.

Originality/value

This study is the first to adopt a bibliometric and thematic analysis to investigate BT in the accounting domain. The authors provide significant insights that could guide and foster the use of BT for accountants and practitioners, defining future research lines and a research agenda for academic researchers.
An investigation of the effects of aspect ratio and opening on CSPSW and TSCSW
Authors: Labibzadeh Mojtaba , Bagheri Mohsen , Khademalrasoul Abdolghafour , Hossain Khandaker M.A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study, the effects of opening shape, size and position as well as the aspect (height-to-length) ratio on the shear capacity, stiffness, ductility and energy dissipation capacity of triple-skin profiled steel-concrete composite shear wall (TSCSW) and investigate and compare them to those of concrete-stiffened steel plate shear walls (CSPSW). Two kinds of opening, circular and square, with different sizes and positions and two aspect ratios of 1:1 and 3:1 are considered in the simulations.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a novel TSCSW and compares its behavior with the existing CSPSW under the effect of monotonic and cyclic loadings. TSCSW is composed of three corrugated steel plates filled with concrete. The two external side plates are connected to the concrete core by means of several intermediate fasteners and the third one is an inner steel plate embedded within the concrete panel. The internal plate is a buckling restrained plate surrounded by concrete. This is the main superiority of TSCSW over other kinds of existing composite shear walls.

Findings

The results show that the shear capacity and the energy dissipation capacity of the proposed composite wall, TSCSW, are respectively about 16 and 12% higher than those of CSPSW when there is no opening. If an opening is considered in the wall, as the size of the opening is increased, the shear capacity, stiffness, ductility and absorbed energy of the two walls are decreased similarly. The destructive effect of square openings on the performance of the walls is more than that of circular openings.

Originality/value

This is an original work.
Embracing theories of precarity for the study of information practices
Authors: Stewart-Robertson Owen
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to explore the value of various notions of precarity for the study of information practices and for addressing inequities and marginalization from an information standpoint.

Design/methodology/approach

Several interrelated conceptualizations of precarity and associated terms from outside of library and information science (LIS) are presented. LIS studies involving precarity and related topics, including various situations of insecurity, instability, migration and transition, are then discussed. In that context, new approaches to information precarity and new directions for information practices research are explored.

Findings

Studies that draw from holistic characterizations of precarity, especially those engaging with theories from beyond the field, are quite limited in LIS research. Broader understandings of precarity in information contexts may contribute to greater engagement with political and economic considerations and to development of non-individualistic responses and services.

Originality/value

The presentation of a framework for an initial model of information precarity and the expansion of connections between existing LIS research and concepts of precarity from other fields suggest a new lens for further addressing inequities, marginalization and precarious life in LIS research.
COVID-19 vaccination: engagement behavior patterns and implications for public health service communication
Authors: Azer Jaylan , Alexander Matthew
Published: February 2022

Purpose

COVID-19 vaccinations face a backdrop of widespread mistrust in their safety and effectiveness, specifically via social media platforms which constitute major barriers for the public health sector to manage COVID-19 (and future) pandemics. This study provides a more nuanced understanding of the public's engagement behavior toward COVID-19 vaccinations.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Netnography, this study explores the public's interactions with vaccine communications by the WHO via Facebook. From WHO posts about the COVID-19 vaccination 23,726 public comments on Facebook were extracted and analyzed.

Findings

Building on crisis communication, health and engagement literature, this paper identifies and conceptualizes seven patterns of engagement behavior toward the COVID-19 vaccination and develops the first framework of relationships between these patterns and the extant vaccine attitudes: vaccine acceptance, hesitancy and refusal.

Practical implications

This paper helps policymakers identify and adapt interventions that increase vaccine confidence and tailor public health services communications accordingly.

Originality/value

This research offers the first typology of patterns of engagement behavior toward COVID-19 vaccinations and develops a framework of relationships between these patterns and the existing understanding in health literature. Finally, the study provides data-driven communication recommendations to public health service organizations.
Kuala Lumpur–from a tin-mining settlement to a neoliberal stronghold of Southeast Asia
Authors: Kozlowski Marek , Huston Simon , Mohd Yusof Yusnani
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Kuala Lumpur (KL) emerged as the capital of the newly independent Federation of Malayan States in 1957 with a population of 316,000. Over the next 60 years, the city expanded into a major urban regional conurbation. It now covers an area of 2,790 km2 and has a population of around 7.7 million. In the last two decades, market-driven, fast-track development, underpinned by road infrastructure has accelerated the city's urban transformation. Especially over the last two decades, a spate of urban redevelopments, including commercial and retail complexes, specialised centres, industrial parks, educational complexes and residential estates have transformed the Kuala Lumpur Metropolitan Region (KLMR) beyond recognition. KL is only one example among many of intensive Southeast Asian property-led urban development, fuelled by demographic pressures and global capital inflows that transformed the regional natural and built environments. The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of globalisation, neoliberalism and property-led development, on the built form and socio-cultural legacies of the KLMR.

Design/methodology/approach

The major aim of this study is to determine how neoliberalism and property-led development have impacted the urban form and structure of the KLMR. The methodology applied in this study concentrates mainly on the use of qualitative research methods. The major qualitative research methods include qualitative analysis, field surveys and observations, primary and secondary data collection. The approach in this study is to exemplify the shift from government-sponsored development in the post-independence period to the current globalised-private oriented development.

Findings

The major findings of this research suggest that the global, property-led mode of urban development, whilst superficially successful, undermined traditional and tropical-climate urban landscapes. It also bequeathed many urban or property level problems, including traffic congestion, air pollution, planning governance and building management issues. The paper outlines narratives for a more balanced and sustainable mode of urban development, which is more in tune with local culture and climatic conditions.

Originality/value

This paper provides a deep insight analysis and evaluation of KL's growth from a small town into a global metropolitan region where property-led development dictates the rules and determines the character of the city.
Comparative study of linear and quadratic model equations for prediction and evaluation of surface roughness of a plain-woven fabric
Authors: Beyene Kura Alemayehu
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Modeling helps to determine how structural parameters of fabric affect the surface of a fabric and also identify the way they influence fabric properties. Moreover, it helps to estimate and evaluate without the complexity and time-consuming experimental procedures. The purpose of this study is to develop and select the best regression model equations for the prediction and evaluation of surface roughness of plain-woven fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a linear and quadratic regression model was developed for the prediction and evaluation of surface roughness of plain-woven fabrics, and the capability in accuracy and reliability of the two-model equation was determined by the root mean square error (RMSE). The Design-Expert AE11 software was used for developing the two model equations and analysis of variance “ANOVA.” The count and density were used for developing linear model equation one “SMD1” as well as for quadratic model equation two “SMD2.”

Findings

From results and findings, the effects of count and density and their interactions on the roughness of plain-woven fabric were found statistically significant for both linear and quadratic models at a confidence interval of 95%. The count has a positive correlation with surface roughness, while density has a negative correlation. The correlations revealed that models were strongly correlated at a confidence interval of 95% with adjusted R² of 0.8483 and R² of 0.9079, respectively. The RMSE values of the quadratic model equation and linear model equation were 0.1596 and 0.0747, respectively.

Originality/value

Thus, the quadratic model equation has better capability accuracy and reliability in predictions and evaluations of surface roughness than a linear model. These models can be used to select a suitable fabric for various end applications, and it was also used for tests and predicts surface roughness of plain-woven fabrics. The regression model helps to reduce the gap between the subjective and objective surface roughness measurement methods.
Semi‐natural habitat surrounding farms promotes multifunctionality in avian ecosystem services
Authors: Olimpi Elissa M. , Garcia Karina , Gonthier David J. , Kremen Claire , Snyder William E. , Wilson‐Rankin Erin E. , Karp Daniel S.
Published: February 2022

Farmland birds can suppress insect pests, but may also consume beneficial insects, damage crops and potentially carry foodborne pathogens. As bird communities shift in response to farming practices, so too do the benefits (services) and costs (disservices) from birds. Understanding how and why ecosystem services and disservices covary can inform management interventions that enhance synergies, avoid trade‐offs and promote multifunctionality.

We investigated how farmland diversification practices influence the services and disservices provided by wild birds on 21 California strawberry farms. Specifically, we coupled 285 bird surveys, metabarcoding and other molecular analyses of ~1,000 faecal samples representing 55 bird species (mostly passerines) to determine which individuals consumed pests, natural enemies, and crops and carried foodborne pathogens. Then, we explored how farming practices shape ecosystem service bundles, or suites of consistently co‐occurring services/disservices.

Avian services and disservices were shaped by interactions between local farming practices and landscape context. We found that the amount of semi‐natural habitat surrounding each farm was the single most important driver of ecosystem services, with the best outcomes (highest multifunctionality) occurring on farms surrounded by semi‐natural habitat.

Bundles were primarily influenced by landscape context. Increasing semi‐natural habitat around farms was associated with more multifunctional bird communities that maximized services and minimized disservices. However, not all trade‐offs were minimized in landscapes with more semi‐natural habitat, suggesting that specific farming contexts can exacerbate or mitigate trade‐offs as bird communities shift in response to diversification practices.

Synthesis and applications. Though growers are often pressured to remove non‐crop habitat to reduce food‐safety risks, our work suggests that conserving habitat can support bird conservation, mitigate food‐safety risks and decrease crop damage from birds. More broadly, by considering the multiple roles that communities play in ecosystems, managers can simultaneously maximize services and minimize disservices to achieve multifunctionality.
Does feedback targeting text comprehension trigger the use of reading strategies or changes in readers' attitudes? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Swart Elise K. , Nielen Thijs M.J. , Sikkema‐de Jong Maria T.
Published: February 2022

Background

Previous meta‐analyses have shown that feedback targeting text comprehension given when students perform a reading task positively influences learning from text. So far, differences in the effects of feedback were explained by design features, such as the timing and richness of feedback. In the present study, we aim to investigate cognitive and affective processes that might be triggered by feedback targeting text comprehension.

Method

Two meta‐analyses were performed on feedback intervention studies that included statistics for both the effect of feedback targeting text comprehension on the use of reading strategies (k = 8) or readers' attitudes towards the reading task (k = 10) and the effect of feedback on reading comprehension. We first tested whether feedback significantly affected the use of reading strategies or readers' attitudes. We then performed a meta‐regression analysis to test if the magnitude of the effect significantly predicted gains in reading comprehension.

Results

Feedback targeting text comprehension had a positive and significant impact on the use of reading strategies (g+ = 0.61) and on reading comprehension (g+ = 0.34). Additionally, the magnitude of the effect on the use of reading strategies was positively related to the magnitude of the effect on reading comprehension. Feedback targeting text comprehension did not influence readers' attitudes towards the reading task. Also, no significant effect of feedback was found for reading comprehension in these studies.

Conclusions

Feedback targeting text comprehension helps students to apply reading strategies more often and/or more efficiently, even when they read new texts without the help of feedback. This transfer of practiced reading strategies in turn fosters reading comprehension. Due to the scarce number of studies, the results of the present meta‐analysis should be interpreted as an incentive for the field of reading research to unify empirical approaches for the integrated study of affective processes triggered by feedback targeting text comprehension.
The OMC, Intelligent Accountability and the Monitoring of National Tax Authorities
Authors: Daly Stephen
Published: February 2022

EU governance is not straightforward. Novel supranational methods of checking compliance with the panoply of EU Membership responsibilities therefore are needed. The open method of co‐ordination (OMC) – inappropriately named given that ‘coordination’ is at best the result of second order effects – is one such example of a distinctly supranational method of holding Member States to account. This article argues that the OMC should be used in respect of the collection of taxes due by large taxpayers. In doing so, the article argues that tax collection practices should be monitored at the EU level. It further defends the use of the OMC by demonstrating that OMC initiatives can engender a desirable form of accountability, namely ‘intelligent accountability’.