bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Decreased connection density and modularity of functional brain networks during n‐back working memory paradigm
Authors: Kaposzta Zalan , Stylianou Orestis , Mukli Peter , Eke Andras , Racz Frigyes Samuel 
Published: November 2020

AbstractIntroductionInvestigating how the brain adapts to increased mental workload through large‐scale functional reorganization appears as an important research question. Functional connectivity (FC) aims at capturing how disparate regions of the brain dynamically interact, while graph theory provides tools for the topological characterization of the reconstructed functional networks. Although numerous studies investigated how FC is altered in response to increased working memory (WM) demand, current results are still contradictory as few studies confirmed the robustness of these findings in a low‐density setting.MethodsIn this study, we utilized the n‐back WM paradigm, in which subjects were presented stimuli (single digits) sequentially, and their task was to decide for each given stimulus if it matched the one presented n‐times earlier. Electroencephalography recordings were performed under a control (0‐back) and two task conditions of varying difficulty (2‐ and 3‐back). We captured the characteristic connectivity patterns for each difficulty level by performing FC analysis and described the reconstructed functional networks with various graph theoretical measures.ResultsWe found a substantial decrease in FC when transitioning from the 0‐ to the 2‐ or 3‐back conditions, however, no differences relating to task difficulty were identified. The observed changes in brain network topology could be attributed to the dissociation of two (frontal and occipitotemporal) functional modules that were only present during the control condition. Furthermore, behavioral and performance measures showed both positive and negative correlations to connectivity indices, although only in the higher frequency bands.ConclusionThe marked decrease in FC may be due to temporarily abandoned connections that are redundant or irrelevant in solving the specific task. Our results indicate that FC analysis is a robust tool for investigating the response of the brain to increased cognitive workload.
The prevalence of hereditary neuromuscular disorders in Northern Norway
Authors: Müller Kai Ivar , Ghelue Marijke Van , Lund Irene , Jonsrud Christoffer , Arntzen Kjell Arne 
Published: November 2020

AbstractAimTo investigate the point prevalence of hereditary neuromuscular disorders on January 1, 2020 in Northern Norway.MethodsFrom January 1, 1999, until January 1, 2020, we screened medical and genetic hospital records in Northern Norway for hereditary neuromuscular disorders.ResultsWe identified 542 patients with a hereditary neuromuscular disorder living in Northern Norway, giving a point prevalence of 111.9/100,000 on January 1, 2020. The prevalence of children (<18 years old) and adults (≥18 years old) were 57.8/100,000 and 125.1/100,000, respectively. Inherited neuropathies had a prevalence of 38.8/100,000. Charcot–Marie–Tooth and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies had a prevalence of 29.9/100,000 and 8.3/100,000, respectively. We calculated a prevalence of 3.7/100,000 for spinal muscular atrophies and 2.4/100,000 for Kennedy disease. Inherited myopathies were found in 67.7/100,000. Among these, we registered 13.4/100,000 myotonic dystrophy type 1, 6.8/100,000 myotonic dystrophy type 2, 7.3/100,000 Duchenne muscular dystrophy, 1.6/100,000 Becker muscular dystrophy, 3.7/100,000 facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, 12.8/100,000 limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy, 2.5/100,000 hypokalemic periodic paralysis and 11.4/100,000 myotonia congenita.ConclusionOur total prevalence was higher than previously hypothesized in European population‐based studies. The prevalence was especially high for myotonia congenita and limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy. The prevalence of Charcot–Marie–Tooth polyneuropathy was higher than in most European studies, but lower than previously reported in epidemiological studies in other regions of Norway.
“Houston, we have a problem”: Revealing MOOC practitioners' experiences regarding feedback provision to learners facing difficulties
Authors: Topali Paraskevi , Ortega‐Arranz Alejandro , Martínez‐Monés Alejandra , Villagrá‐Sobrino Sara L. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractIn spite of the high impact of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), learners frequently disengage from the course contents and activities due to unexpected problems of different natures, such as content‐related or technical issues. Feedback has been identified as an important aspect of the learning process directly connected with learners' engagement. However, the massive and impersonal nature of MOOCs hinders the provision of efficient and timely feedback to those learners facing problems. This paper examines how MOOC practitioners identify and support learners facing problems, what challenges they encounter, and what strategies they apply to overcome such challenges. Additionally, the current study aims to compare the learners' problems and practitioners' experiences between engineering‐related and nonengineering related MOOCs. A qualitative phenomenological study has been conducted through semistructured interviews with 14 MOOC practitioners. The evidence gathered shows diverse learners' and practitioners' problems shared among engineering and nonengineering courses and a general concern on how to address individual learners' needs in time. A common practice of problem identification regards checking the self‐reported issues in communication forums. Identification strategies with the use of learning analytics are limited due to platform restrictions or lack of practitioners' skills in interpreting the provided information. The synthesis of MOOC practitioners from both engineering and nonengineering disciplines may provide insights that are either globally applicable to all disciplines or specific to engineering. The results could be shaped into conceptual and technological solutions to help MOOC stakeholders (e.g., researchers, practitioners) identify potential learners facing difficulties and support them during the course process.
Investigating the effect of reverse engineering pedagogy in K‐12 robotics education
Authors: Zhong Baichang , Kang Siya , Zhan Zehui 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe purpose of the study is to explore the effectiveness of reverse engineering pedagogy (REP) and forward project‐based pedagogy (FPP) in K‐12 robotics education. A two‐stage study was conducted in two secondary schools, involving a total of 169 students. Based on the experience of the pilot study (Study 1), we refined the REP and examined its effectiveness through a quasi‐experimental design in the formal study (Study 2), which included four teaching models: the Deconstruction Recovery Model, Troubleshooting Model, Element Minitrim Model, and Structural Innovation Model. Results indicated that students in the REP group performed significantly better and perceived a higher degree of compatibility and creative self‐efficacy than those in the FPP group, which is consistent with the final robotics product evaluation. However, no significant difference was found in the learning attitude towards the course. The research findings highlight the value of REP in robotics education, especially in cultivating creativity and enhance learning performance, however, it needs reasonable planning and design.
Assessing the Reliability and Acceptability of an Arabic Language Version of the Child Abuse Potential Inventory
Authors: Al Abduwani Jumana , Ahmed Mohammed Kamal , Barlow Jane 
Published: November 2020

This paper presents the findings of a research study aimed at assessing the reliability and validity of an Arabic version of the Child Abuse Potential Inventory (CAPI) in Muscat, the capital of Oman. The research was carried out among a population of women attending antenatal care clinics (N = 309) and reports on the prevalence of high scores and assessment of reliability and validity of the Arabic CAPI. A sub‐sample of mothers were interviewed to explore their views about the acceptability of the tool locally.The mean score of the Abuse Scale was 159.6 (range 26–390), which was higher than the US version (mean = 91). Internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.911) and test–retest reliability (Pearson's r = 0.89; two‐tailed p 0.00) were both high. With regard to the construct validity, the six‐factor structure of the original version was not replicated; only three factors were obtained. The interview data showed that the CAPI was easy to complete and appropriate for use in Oman.The Arabic version of the CAPI showed a highly satisfactory internal consistency and test–retest reliability. This suggests that the Arabic version of the CAPI is a valid and reliable tool to use to assess potential for child physical abuse within Oman. These results are in concordance with other cross‐cultural versions of the CAPI.‘Reports on the prevalence of high scores and assessment of reliability and validity of the Arabic CAPI’Key Practitioner Messages

This research reports a first attempt to assess the psychometric properties of an Arabic version of the CAPI and use it among an Arab Muslim population.
The results indicated that the tool is culturally acceptable and appropriate within this context, that mothers are able to complete it, and that it was stable over time.
The distribution of CAPI scores showed a higher mean score and a greater proportion of mothers scoring above the original cut‐off score.
Child Abuse in the West Bank: Lessons Learnt from a Qualitative Study
Authors: Rabaia Yoke , Lynch Margaret A. , Giacaman Rita 
Published: November 2020

In preparation for a survey using two international child abuse screening tools (ICAST‐P for parents and ICAST‐R for young people), a qualitative study explored the use of discipline and the understanding of child abuse, including sexual abuse, in Palestinian West Bank society, and investigated the appropriateness, in relation to clarity, acceptability and relevance, of the instruments. Qualitative research teams conducted 30 in‐depth interviews with mothers (10), young men (10) and young women (10). Our findings indicate that in a society where sexual abuse is not openly discussed and follow‐up services may be inadequate or inaccessible, inclusion of sexual abuse questions in a survey may be inappropriate and even harmful. However, by asking respondents about sexual abuse questions, rather than asking specifically about an individual's experiences, this study initiated discussion, which acknowledged the occurrence of sexual abuse of both boys and girls in the West Bank population. The findings warrant serious attention by educational, psychological, social and legal services in Palestine. Additionally, the findings caution against administering internationally designed survey instruments in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC) before the potential implications related to cultural, social and political contexts have been carefully examined.Key Practitioner Messages

Before administering an international child abuse screening tool, qualitative research must be conducted in order to understand the cultural context.
Sexual abuse research must include questions on both male and female exposure to abuse.
Conducting surveys on sensitive issues, such as sexual abuse, could have unforeseen negative consequences for both respondents and researchers.
Qualitative research on sensitive topics may be sufficient in demonstrating the need for social interventions.
Production and analysis of a mammalian septin hetero‐octamer complex
Authors: DeRose Barry T. , Kelley Robert S. , Ravi Roshni , Kokona Bashkim , Beld Joris , Spiliotis Elias T. , Padrick Shae B. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe septins are filament‐forming proteins found in diverse eukaryotes from fungi to vertebrates, with roles in cytokinesis, shaping of membranes and modifying cytoskeletal organization. These GTPases assemble into rod‐shaped soluble hetero‐hexamers and hetero‐octamers in mammals, which polymerize into filaments and higher order structures. While the cell biology and pathobiology of septins are advancing rapidly, mechanistic study of the mammalian septins is limited by a lack of recombinant hetero‐octamer materials. We describe here the production and characterization of a recombinant mammalian septin hetero‐octamer of defined stoichiometry, the SEPT2/SEPT6/SEPT7/SEPT3 complex. Using a fluorescent protein fusion to the complex, we observed filaments assembled from this complex. In addition, we used this novel tool to resolve recent questions regarding the organization of the soluble septin complex. Biochemical characterization of a SEPT3 truncation that disrupts SEPT3‐SEPT3 interactions is consistent with SEPT3 occupying a central position in the complex while the SEPT2 subunits are at the ends of the rod‐shaped octameric complexes. Consistent with SEPT2 being on the complex ends, we find that our purified SEPT2/SEPT6/SEPT7/SEPT3 hetero‐octamer copolymerizes into mixed filaments with separately purified SEPT2/SEPT6/SEPT7 hetero‐hexamer. We expect this new recombinant production approach to lay essential groundwork for future studies into mammalian septin mechanism and function.
NMIEDA: Estimation of distribution algorithm based on normalized mutual information
Authors: Lin Zhiyi , Su Qing , Xie Guobo 
Published: November 2020

SummaryA new estimation of distribution algorithm based on normalized mutual information (NMIEDA) is proposed for overcoming the premature convergence of bivariate estimation of distribution algorithms. NMIEDA first uses normalized mutual information to measure the interaction between two variables and then generate a dependency forest model. Second, based on the concept of sporadic model building and a reward and punishment scheme in Selfish Gene, NMIEDA provides a new updating mechanism that accelerates the convergence speed. Finally, a new sampling mechanism is adopted in NMIEDA to improve the efficiency of sampling, which combines stochastic sampling, the opposition‐based learning scheme and the mutation operator. The simulation results on benchmark problems and real‐world problems demonstrate that NMIEDA often outperforms several other bivariate algorithms.
Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Structures of X−⋅⋅⋅CH2O (X=F, Cl, Br, I) Complexes
Authors: Corkish Timothy R. , Haakansson Christian T. , Watson Peter D. , McKinley Allan J. , Wild Duncan A. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractA combined experimental and theoretical approach has been used to investigate X−⋅⋅⋅CH2O (X=F, Cl, Br, I) complexes in the gas phase. Photoelectron spectroscopy, in tandem with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, has been used to determine electron binding energies for the Cl−⋅⋅⋅CH2O, Br−⋅⋅⋅CH2O, and I−⋅⋅⋅CH2O species. Additionally, high‐level CCSD(T) calculations found a C2v minimum for these three anion complexes, with predicted electron detachment energies in excellent agreement with the experimental photoelectron spectra. F−⋅⋅⋅CH2O was also studied theoretically, with a Cs hydrogen‐bonded complex found to be the global minimum. Calculations extended to neutral X⋅⋅⋅CH2O complexes, with the results of potential interest to atmospheric CH2O chemistry.
Genetic analysis of end‐use quality traits in wheat
Authors: Zhang Guorong , Chen Richard Y. , Shao Mingqin , Bai Guihua , Seabourn Bradford W. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractWheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a major cereal food crop in the world. End‐use quality improvement is a major objective in wheat breeding programs. ‘Tiger’ is a hard white winter wheat cultivar with excellent bread baking qualities. The objective of this study was to identify the genetic loci underlying the quality traits in Tiger. A doubled‐haploid (DH) population derived from a cross between Tiger and ‘Danby’ was grown in two environments. A total of 17 quality traits together with grain yield (GY) and stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. Tritici) were evaluated. The population was genotyped using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers generated through genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS). A linkage map was constructed with 1,507 GBS‐SNP markers that distributed over all 21 chromosomes. Most traits in this study showed normal or approximately normal distributions. Composite interval mapping analysis revealed a total of 72 quantitative trait loci (QTL), 67 for quality traits that were dispersed on all chromosomes except 3D, 5D, 6A, and 7A. Among the 67 QTL, some were novel QTL that have not been reported previously. Although many QTL were only significant in one environment, six genomic regions on chromosomes 1B, 1D, 2D, 5BL, 6B, and 6DL harbored major QTL for several important quality traits including kernel hardness (KH), grain and flour protein content (GPC, FPC), flour yield (FY), mix time (MT), mixing tolerance (MTOL), loaf volume (LV), and loaf volume regression (LVReg). At these major loci, Danby contributed favorable alleles for KH, GPC and FPC, while Tiger contributed favorable alleles for the other traits. The findings in this study will be useful for the genetic improvement of bread‐making quality in wheat.
Attitudes toward physical activity as a treatment component for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: An exploratory qualitative study of patient perceptions
Authors: Chubbs‐Payne Adam , Lee Jacqueline , Isserlin Leanna , Norris Mark L. , Spettigue Wendy , Spence Kelly , Longmuir Patricia E. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractObjectiveAnorexia nervosa (AN) with compulsive exercise is associated with poor treatment outcomes. This study sought to understand the attitudes of adolescents with AN from various stages of treatment, toward physical activity research practices and physical activity as a component of treatment.MethodSeventeen adolescents 12–18 years old (15 female) with AN (10 with acknowledged history of compulsive exercise) were recruited from a Canadian Tertiary Care Hospital's Eating Disorder Program. Six inpatients, 5‐day program patients, and six outpatients treated by either the inpatient and/or day treatment program in the past 2 years completed individual, semi‐structured interviews that were audio‐recorded and transcribed. Results were analyzed deductively using qualitative techniques.ResultsParticipants recognized both benefits (psychological, sociological, and physiological) and risks (trigger negative thoughts, increase competitive behavior) of implementing physical activity into acute AN treatment. Patient characteristics, such as stage of treatment and exercise history, had an impact on participants' perceptions toward physical activity in AN. Participants suggested that the ideal physical activity program would be focused on fun, individualized and progressively integrated, group‐based, and directly supported by staff. Although the majority of participants stated that they would wear an activity monitor for research purposes, concerns were voiced regarding compliance and the potential impact on eating disorder symptomatology.DiscussionParticipants overwhelmingly supported the careful implementation of structured physical activity and physical activity psychoeducation into the acute treatment of adolescents with AN. This study allows for the inclusion of patient voices in the conversation surrounding the role of physical activity in AN treatment.
A comparative study of CE‐SDS, SDS‐PAGE, and Simple Western: Influences of sample preparation on molecular weight determination of proteins
Authors: Wiesner Rebecca , Scheller Christin , Krebs Finja , Wätzig Hermann , Oltmann‐Norden Imke 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe development of capillary electrophoresis, especially CE‐SDS devices, has led CE‐SDS to become an established tool in a wide range of applications in the analysis of biopharmaceuticals and is increasingly replacing its method of origin, SDS‐PAGE. The goal of this study was to evaluate the comparability of molecular weight (MW) determination especially by CE‐SDS and SDS‐PAGE. For ensuring comparability, model proteins that have little or no posttranslational modifications and an IgG antibody were used. Only a minor influence of sample preparation conditions, including sample buffer, temperature conditions, and different reducing agents on the MW determination were found. In contrast, the selection of the MW marker plays a decisive role in determining the accurate apparent MW of a protein. When using different MW markers, the deviation in MW determination can exceed 10%. Interestingly, CE‐SDS and 10% SDS‐PAGE hardly differ in their trueness of MW determination. The trueness in relation to the reference MW for each protein was calculated. Although the trueness values for the model proteins considered range between 1.00 and 1.11 using CE‐SDS, they range between 0.93 and 1.03 on SDS‐PAGE, depending on the experimental conditions chosen.
Influence of modern plastic furniture on the fire development in fires in homes: large‐scale fire tests in living rooms
Authors: Hofmann Anja , Klippel Andrea , Gnutzmann Tanja , Kaudelka Sven , Rabe Frederik 
Published: November 2020

SUMMARYAbout 80% of all fire fatalities in Germany occur because of fires in homes. It has been known for some time that modern materials (synonym for materials consisting mostly of synthetic polymers) tend to burn differently from older materials (synonym for materials consisting mostly of fibrous cellulosic substances) and it has been acknowledged that the amount of combustible plastics in homes has increased significantly over the last decades. To investigate the influence of modern furniture and ventilation conditions of fires in homes, a series of four large‐scale tests in two living rooms (LRs) with adjacent rooms (ARs) was performed by BAM and the Frankfurt fire service. Two LRs, one with older furniture and one with modern furniture, were tested twice each. Each test started with the ignition of a paper cushion on an upholstered chair. The influence of modern materials on the fire development was investigated, as well as the influence of the ventilation on the fire development. In all settings, an upholstered chair was the first burning item. Results of the test series show that fires in rooms with modern furniture develop faster than fires in rooms with older furniture. This is true for temperature development in the rooms as well as for smoke production.