bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pd, Cu and Bimetallic PdCu NPs Supported on CNTs and Phosphine‐Functionalized Silica: One‐Pot Preparation, Characterization and Testing in the Semi‐Hydrogenation of Alkynes
Authors: Sánchez‐Resa Daniel , Delgado Jorge A. , Fernández‐Martínez Maria Dolores , Didelot Chloé , De Mallmann Aimery , Szeto Kaï C. , Taoufik Mostafa , Claver Carmen , Godard Cyril
Published: October 2021

Triphenylphosphine stabilized Pd, Cu and PdCu nanocatalysts supported on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) or phosphorus functionalised silica (P−SiO2) were prepared via a one‐pot methodology. The series of P−SiO2 supported catalysts evidenced metal particle sizes of metallic nanoparticles (M‐NPs) between 1 and 2.4 nm, smaller than their equivalents on CNTs (2.4–2.6 nm). Such a difference in particle size as a function of the support and the metallic composition indicated the more pronounced mediation of the CNTs support during the formation of the M‐NPs when compared to the P−SiO2 support. The series of supported catalysts were tested in the semi‐hydrogenation of alkynes providing differences in reactivity which might be correlated with the size and composition of the M‐NPs and the nature of corresponding support. The carbon supported catalysts displayed in general higher activities than those supported on silica and the bimetallic catalyst PdCu/CNTs were the most selective for the case of alkyl substituted alkynes. This catalyst could moreover be recycled several times without loss of activity nor selectivity.
Tracing evolutionary decoupling of oral and pharyngeal jaws in cichlid fishes
Authors: Ronco Fabrizia , Salzburger Walter
Published: October 2021

Evolutionary innovations can facilitate diversification if the novel trait enables a lineage to exploit new niches or by expanding character space. The elaborate pharyngeal jaw apparatus of cichlid fishes is often referred to as an evolutionary “key innovation” that has promoted the spectacular adaptive radiations in these fishes. This goes back to the idea that the structural and functional independence of the oral and pharyngeal jaws for food capturing and food processing, respectively, permitted each jaw type to follow independent evolutionary trajectories. This “evolutionary decoupling” is thought to have facilitated novel trait combinations and, hence, ecological specialization, ultimately allowing more species to coexist in sympatry. Here, we test the hypotheses of evolutionary decoupling of the oral and pharyngeal jaws in the massive adaptive radiation of cichlid fishes in African Lake Tanganyika. Based on phylogenetic comparative analyses of oral jaw morphology and lower pharyngeal jaw shape across most of the ∼240 cichlid species occurring in that lake, we show that the two jaws evolved coupled along the main axes of morphological variation, yet most other components of these trait complexes evolved largely independently over the course of the radiation. Further, we find limited correlations between the two jaws in both overall divergence and evolutionary rates. Moreover, we show that the two jaws were evolutionary decoupled at a late stage of the radiation, suggesting that decoupling contributed to micro-niche partitioning and the associated rapidly increasing trophic diversity during this phase.
Crustal reworking and growth during India–Asia continental collision: Insights from early Cenozoic granitoids in the central Lhasa Terrane, Tibet
Authors: Yang Changqi , Huang Feng , Xu Jifeng , Zeng Yunchuan , Liu Qian , Liu Xijun , Yu Hongxia , Tian Ye , Zhang Zhao , Zhang Liying , Zhang Yutong , Wen Yaqian
Published: October 2021

Studying granitoids can provide important knowledge on the composition of continental crust and the geodynamic processes of continental growth. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of granitoids formation during continental collision remain uncertain. In this paper, we present new zircon U–Pb–Hf isotope and whole‐rock Sr–Nd isotope compositions, and major‐ and trace‐element data for granitoids from the Chacangka area of the central Lhasa Terrane, southern Tibet. The Chacangka quartz monzonites crystallized at ca. 61 Ma, whereas the monzonites and granites were emplaced at ca. 51 Ma. The quartz monzonites are peraluminous and have high 87Sr/86Sri ratios (0.7129–0.7131), and their low εNd(t) (−7.65 to −7.10) and zircon εHf(t) (−9.3 to −7.5) values are more depleted than those of ancient crustal basement beneath the central Lhasa Terrane, which suggests that they originated from a mixed source of juvenile and ancient lower crust. Compared with the quartz monzonites, the monzonites have much higher contents of MgO (2.34–3.62 wt%) and values of Mg# (42.3–46.3) and zircon εHf(t) (−6.9 to 1.9) and show more depleted Sr–Nd isotopes, indicating that more juvenile materials were involved in their source. The granites have Sr–Nd isotope compositions that are similar to those of the coeval monzonites but have higher SiO2 contents, lower CaO and MgO contents, and lower values of Mg#, suggesting that they were differentiates of the monzonites. The elemental and isotopic compositions of the Chacangka granitoids exhibit a marked transformation from 61 to 51 Ma, probably indicating breakoff of the Neo‐Tethyan oceanic slab. The Neo‐Tethyan slab breakoff not only induced the upwelling of deep material and eruption of magma but also caused re‐melting and destruction of ancient crustal basement of the central Lhasa Terrane.
Mobility as a driver of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in cancer patients during the second coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic wave
Authors: Fong Dominic , Mair Maximilian J. , Lanthaler Florian , Alber Monika , Mitterer Manfred
Published: October 2021

We retrospectively analyzed the epidemiological characteristics of cancer patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection and their correlations with publicly available mobility data. Between 19 October 2020 and 28 February 2021, 4754 patient visits were carried out, and 1454 treatments have been applied at the Haemato‐Oncology Day Hospital Merano. Additional measures to prevent local SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission included a specific questionnaire for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) symptoms as well as a SARS‐CoV‐2 real‐time polymerase‐chain reaction (RT‐PCR) 2 days prior to any intravenous or subcutaneous therapy. Community mobility was assessed through publicly available mobile phone tracking data from Google; 106/719 (14.7%) cancer patients have been tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 by PCR during the second wave compared to 5/640 (0.8%) within the first wave (P < .001); 66/106 (62%) had solid tumors, and 40/106 (38%) had hematological malignancies; 90/106 (85%) patients received ongoing antitumor therapies. Mortality rate of COVID‐19 positive cancer patients (7/106; 6.6%) was higher compared to the overall population (731/46 421; 1.6%; P < .001). Strict control measures at our department led to a significantly lower test positivity rate compared to the general population, resulting in a reduction of 58.5% of new SARS‐CoV‐2 cases. Over time, infection rates and community mobility correlated in the first and second wave after initiating and lifting restrictions. Our findings underscore the importance of strict preventive control measures including testing and contact tracing in vulnerable subpopulations such as cancer patients, particularly if social restriction policies are being lifted. Smartphone‐based mobility data may help to guide policy makers to prevent a vulnerable population like cancer patients from virus transmission.
Expression of the HOXA gene family and its relationship to prognosis and immune infiltrates in cervical cancer
Authors: Ge Fenfen , Tie Weiwei , Zhang Junli , Zhu Yingying , Fan Yingying
Published: October 2021

Background

The homeobox A cluster (HOXA) gene family is participated in multiple biological functions in human cancers. To date, little is known about the expression profile and clinical significance of HOXA genes in cervical cancer.

Methods

We downloaded RNASeq data of cervical cancer from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The difference in HOXA family expression was analyzed using independent samples t test. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to assess the effect of HOXA family expression on survival, and a nomogram predicting survival was generated. We assessed the infiltration difference in immune cells and expression difference of immunity biomarkers between two groups with different expression level of HOXA genes through Immune Cell Abundance Identifier (ImmuCellAI) and independent samples t test, respectively.

Results

Our results showed that the HOXA1 gene was upregulated, while the HOXA10 and HOXA11 were downregulated in cervical cancer. Downregulation of HOXA1 was related to a poor outcome for cervical cancer patient. We also identified a significantly increased abundance of T helper 2 cells (Th2) and higher expression of PD‐L1 in cervical cancer patients with lower expression of HOXA10 and HOXA11. The gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) results indicated that HOXA1 and HOXA11 were involved in immune responses pathways and participated in the activation of a variety of classic signaling pathways related to the progression of human cancer.

Conclusion

This study comprehensively analyzed different HOXA genes applying public database to determine their expression patterns, potential diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment values in cervical cancer.
Relationships between lung function decline and skeletal muscle and fat mass changes: a longitudinal study in healthy individuals
Authors: Park Han‐Ki , Lee So‐Hee , Lee Suh‐Young , Kim Sun‐Sin , Park Heung‐Woo
Published: October 2021

Background

The associations between long‐term changes in body mass composition and decline in lung function in healthy adults are unknown.

Methods

Using a well‐defined health check‐up database, we first assessed individual longitudinal changes in muscle mass (MM) and fat mass (FM) measured via bioelectrical impedance analyses. Then we classified the enrolled individuals into five body composition groups according to their MM index (MMI) [MM (kg)/height (m)2] or FM index (FMI) [FM (kg)/height (m)2] change rate quartiles. Linear mixed models adjusted for age, smoking status, height, and body mass index were used to analyse the rate of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) decline and body composition groups.

Results

A total of 15 476 middle‐aged individuals (6088 women [mean age ± standard deviation: 50.74 ± 7.44] and 9388 men [mean age ± standard deviation: 49.36 ± 6.99]) were enrolled. The mean number of measurements was 6.96 (interquartile range [IQR]: 5–9) over an average follow‐up period of 8.95 years (IQR: 6.73–11.10). Decrease in MMI was significantly associated with accelerated FEV1 decline in men only (P = 1.7 × 10−9), while increase in FMI was significantly associated with accelerated FEV1 decline in both women and men (P = 7.9 × 10−10 and P < 2.0 × 10−16 respectively). Linear mixed model analyses indicated that annual increase of 0.1 kg/m2 in MMI was related to accelerated FEV1 decline by 30.79 mL/year (95% confidence interval [CI]: 26.10 to 35.48 mL/year) in men. Annual increase of 0.1 kg/m2 in FMI was related to accelerated FEV1 decline by 59.65 mL/year in men (95% CI: 56.84 to 62.28 mL/year) and by 22.84 mL/year in women (95% CI: 18.95 to 26.74 mL/year). In body composition analysis, we found increase in MMI was significantly associated with attenuated FEV1 decline in men only (P = 1.7 × 10−9), while increase in FMI was significantly associated with accelerated FEV1 decline in both women and men (P = 7.9 × 10−10 and P < 2.0 × 10−16 respectively). Individuals characterized with gain MM combined with loss of FM were associated with the most favourable outcome (i.e. the smallest rate of decline in FEV1) in both women and men. In men, loss of FM over time is more closely related with attenuated FEV1 decline than change in MM (gain or loss).

Conclusions

Change in body composition over time can be used to identify healthy middle‐aged individuals at high risk for rapid FEV1 decline.
Population dynamics of nitrifying sludge supplemented with 2‐chlorophenol in SBR reactors
Authors: Martínez‐Jardines Miguel , González‐Robles Rosa O , González‐Márquez H , Texier Anne‐Claire , Cuervo‐López Flor de María
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

The metabolic improvement and reduction of the inhibitory effect of 2‐chlorophenol (2‐CP) on the nitrification process occurring in nitrifying SBR systems can be associated with changes in the microbial community. The physiologic, kinetic, and microbial population behaviors of two nitrifying sludges were evaluated in two parallel sequencing batch reactors (SBR1 and SBR2) amended with 2‐CP. Seven cycles were performed with 20 to 60 mg 2‐CP‐C/L.

RESULTS

Ammonium‐oxidizing and nitrite‐oxidizing processes were physiologically disturbed in SBR1 and SBR2 due to increased 2‐CP concentrations, attaining ammonium consumption efficiencies (ENH4+‐N) and nitrate yields (YNO3−‐N) as low as 38% and 0.32 mg NO3−‐N/mg NH4+‐N consumed, respectively. Nevertheless, in cycle 7, both sludges recovered their physiological capacities, as ENH4+‐N of 100% and YNO3−‐N > 0.94 mg NO3−‐N/mg NH4+‐N consumed were achieved in both nitrifying processes. Increase in 2‐CP concentration also affected the kinetics of nitrification processes, wherein a higher inhibition on the specific rate of ammonium‐oxidizing process was observed. Despite the increase in 2‐CP concentration, no predominance of species was noted, as the bacterial community evenness index remained above 0.97, whereas the richness index increased along with SBR operation.

CONCLUSION

The stable, complete, and efficient nitrifying process achieved in both SBRs could be related to the higher bacterial community richness and to the regular maintenance of ammonium and nitrite oxidizing bacteria tolerant to 2‐CP along experimentation. Total 2‐CP consumption might be associated with ammonium‐oxidizing and/or heterotrophic bacteria related to Nitrosospira, Luteimonas, and Cohnella. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Homozygous sickle cell disease related mortality in Senegal (2011–2020)
Authors: Seck Moussa , Ba Oumou , Faye Blaise Felix , Touré Sokhna Aissatou , Guèye Youssou Bamar , Dieng Nata , Sall Abibatou , Gadji Macoura , Touré Awa Oumar , Diop Saliou
Published: October 2021

Homozygous sickle cell disease (HSCD) is characterized by multiorgan morbidity and an increased risk of early death. We aim to describe the mortality rate, causes, and risk factors of death in HSCD between 2011 and 2020. We conducted a retrospective study with a duration of 10 years in the cohort of 2348 HSCD patients. The mortality rate was determined by reporting the number of deaths to the total number of patients followed in the year. Sociodemographic, clinical, biological data and causes of death were studied. Death risk factors were determined by a bivariate analysis comparing deceased and living HSCD patients. The mean age of death was 26 years (3–52). The sex ratio was 1.2. The mortality rate was 2.76%. The death rate was high in 2011 (3.2%) and low in 2020 (0.17%). We observed a significant reduction of mortality of 94.6%. Most of the common causes of death were acute anemia (40%), acute chest syndrome (24.6%), and infections (20%). Risk factors of death were age, vaso‐occlusive crises ≥3, acute chest syndrome, blood transfusion, and chronic complications. Mortality among HSCD has significantly decreased over the past 10 years in Senegal, and the main causes of death were acute anemia, acute chest syndrome, and infections.
The hybrid skull of the eastern coyote (Canis latrans var.): Nonmetric traits and craniomandibular shape
Authors: Zdjelar Natasa , Nagendran Lavania , Kendall Christopher , Ackermann Rebecca Rogers , Schroeder Lauren
Published: October 2021

The increasing awareness that hybridization, and resultant gene flow, plays a major role in animal diversification has led to a growing number of studies that have focused on assessing the morphological consequences of this process. Analyses of mammalian hybrids have identified skeletal effects of hybridization, including a suite of anomalous dental and sutural traits on the skull that are present at high frequencies in hybrid populations. These studies have also detected consistent patterns of morphological shape and size differences between hybrids and parental taxa across a wide variety of organisms. However, more research is required to understand the universality of these traits and shape/size differences. Building on these previous studies, a sample of genetically determined canid hybrids was examined, specifically the eastern coyote (Canis latrans var.), a hybrid between coyotes, wolves, and dogs, to test whether this group exhibits a comparable pattern of anomalous nonmetric characters, and to assess differences in craniomandibular shape and size. First, specimens of C. latrans var., C. latrans, and C. lupus were scored for anomalous traits, including supernumerary and rotated teeth, dental crowding, and sutural anomalies. Geometric morphometric analyses were then conducted on a subset of these individuals to explore craniomandibular size and shape variation, as well as allometry. The results are largely consistent with other studies, indicating that the incidence of dental anomalies, dental crowding, and sutural anomalies is significantly higher in hybrids. However, differences are not significant for supernumerary teeth. The exploration of morphometric variation identifies intermediate morphology in the hybrids, and some indication of greater morphological variability in the mandible. When these results are combined with previous studies, they suggest that skeletal signatures of hybridization are common to different mammalian taxa across multiple generations; however, some traits such as supernumerary teeth may be lost after a few generations.
Phonon anharmonicity in bulk ZrTe5
Authors: Xu Lihuan , Wang Wei , Xie Qiyun , Hu Chengxiang , Chen Limin , Zheng Jiajin , Yin Handi , Cheng Guofeng , Ai Xiaoqian
Published: October 2021

The study of phonon scattering processes is urgent for advancing the thermoelectric material with low thermal conductivity for commercial application. In this work, Raman scattering spectroscopy is utilized to quantify the temperature dependence of vibrational modes in ZrTe5 crystals, which enables the investigation on anharmonic contributions. We mainly focus on the temperature range from 80 up to 400 K due to noticeable surface oxidation at higher temperature. The phonon behaviors can be fully described by the model considering two mechanisms of the lattice thermal expansion effects and intrinsic anharmonicity. The four‐phonon processes are non‐negligible and even stronger than the three‐phonon processes at high temperature. The phonon lifetime is greatly reduced by the enhancement of phonon scattering, contributing to the low thermal conductivity in ZrTe5 single crystals.
The preoperative machine learning algorithm for extremity metastatic disease can predict 90‐day and 1‐year survival: An external validation study
Authors: Skalitzky Mary Kate , Gulbrandsen Trevor R. , Groot Olivier Q. , Karhade Aditya V. , Verlaan Jorrit‐Jan , Schwab Joseph H. , Miller Benjamin J.
Published: October 2021

Background

The prediction of survival is valuable to optimize treatment of metastatic long‐bone disease. The Skeletal Oncology Research Group (SORG) machine‐learning (ML) algorithm has been previously developed and internally validated. The purpose of this study was to determine if the SORG ML algorithm accurately predicts 90‐day and 1‐year survival in an external metastatic long‐bone disease patient cohort.

Methods

A retrospective review of 264 patients who underwent surgery for long‐bone metastases between 2003 and 2019 was performed. Variables used in the stochastic gradient boosting SORG algorithm were age, sex, primary tumor type, visceral/brain metastases, systemic therapy, and 10 preoperative laboratory values. Model performance was calculated by discrimination, calibration, and overall performance.

Results

The SORG ML algorithms retained good discriminative ability (area under the cure [AUC]: 0.83; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76–0.88 for 90‐day mortality and AUC: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.79–0.88 for 1‐year mortality), calibration, overall performance, and decision curve analysis.

Conclusion

The previously developed ML algorithms demonstrated good performance in the current study, thereby providing external validation. The models were incorporated into an accessible application (https://sorg-apps.shinyapps.io/extremitymetssurvival/) that may be freely utilized by clinicians in helping predict survival for individual patients and assist in informative decision‐making discussion before operative management of long bone metastatic lesions.
Sun Sign in the Ultrasound Diagnosis and Activity Assessment of Morphea
Authors: Salgueiro Catalina , Baeza Javiera , Moll Catherina , Alfaro‐Sepúlveda Daniela , Mellado Gonzalo , Villaseca‐Hernández Miguel , Vera‐Kellet Cristián , Wortsman Ximena
Published: October 2021

Morphea, a localized form of scleroderma, is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the skin. Color Doppler Ultrasound has been reported as a reliable tool to assess the activity of the disease. With histologically confirmed cases, this case series describes a new ultrasound sign consisting of a hyperechoic halo surrounding superficial subcutaneous veins of the extremities in transverse view, named the sun sign. This sign can help diagnose morphea in the inflammatory phase and correlate in pathology with perivascular infiltrates surrounding superficial subcutaneous veins.
An AIE‐Active Ultrathin Polymeric Self‐Assembled Monolayer Sensor for Trace Volatile Explosive Detection
Authors: Li Mingliang , Xie Kefeng , Wang Guozhi , Zheng Jing , Cao Yingnan , Cheng Xiang , Li Ziwei , Wei Feng , Tu Hailing , Tang Jinyao
Published: October 2021

This work has prepared polymeric self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) sensors for the detection of trace volatile nitroaromatic compound (NAC) explosives by fluorescence quenching. A typical aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) luminogen 1,1,2,2‐tetraphenylethene (TPE) polymerizes into PTPE to increase the fluorescence intensity in the SAMs, and the phosphoric acid acts as the anchor group to form stable covalent bonds with the Al2O3 substrate. This design takes advantage of the high sensitivity and good stability of SAMs, and high fluorescence intensity, and “wire effect” of the conjugated polymers. The polymeric SAM sensors are prepared on the Al2O3 silicon wafer and testing paper. Both of them show good response speed, reversibility, selectivity, and sensitivity. The detection limits down to 0.07, 0.35, and 4.11 ppm for TNT, DNB, and NB, respectively, are achieved on the inorganic testing paper. Furthermore, due to the higher fluorescence intensity by interlacing and overlapping of fibers, the detection of the paper can be distinguished by naked eyes even with a low‐power handheld UV lamp, which provides an experimental basis for the development of cheap and easy trace NAC explosive sensors.
Value and pitfalls of imaging and electrodiagnosis in neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome: Lessons learned from present and past
Authors: Goedee H. Stephan , Seeber Antje A. , van Hattum Eline S.
Published: October 2021

See article on pages 34–42 in this issue.
Liberating photoinhibition through nongenetic drainage of electrons from photosynthesis
Authors: Wang Wangyin , Li Dingyi , Cao Xupeng , Xue Song , Li Can
Published: October 2021

Light is the prerequisite for photosynthesis. However, excess light flux higher than the light‐saturation point gives rise to photoinhibition or photodamage. To efficiently utilize the excess energy under the light saturation is a long‐standing issue of photosynthesis. Herein, we found an electron drainage channel using artificial redox shuttle as a nongenetic tool to direct excessive electron transfer from chloroplast of microalgae (Chlorella pyrenoidosa) to extracellular redox reactions. Guiding the excess electrons to the outside cell enhanced water oxidation activity of photosystem II by 2.6‐fold and increased the light saturation point by 7.1‐fold. Intrinsic quantum yield and electron transfer rate of photosystems (PSII and PSI) were also in response to an increased light flux, due to the liberation of the initial photoinhibition. The electrons drained from photosynthesis served as the reducing equivalents for extracellular synthesis of chemicals. This work sheds light on the nature of photosynthetic electron transportation and distribution in a light‐saturated state of microalgae through a nongenetic drainage of electron for extracellular chemical synthesis.

Key points

An electron drainage channel was developed using artificial redox mediator to liberate the photoinhibition of microalgal photosynthesis.

Guiding the excess photosynthetic electrons to the outside cell enhanced water oxidation activity of photosystem II and increased the light saturation point.

Electrons from photosynthesis with the reducing power can be used for extracellular synthesis of chemicals.
Evaluating Education Governance: Does State Takeover of School Districts Affect Student Achievement?
Authors: Schueler Beth E. , Bleiberg Joshua F.
Published: October 2021

Local school boards have primary authority for running educational systems in the U.S., but little is known empirically about the merits of this arrangement. State takeovers of struggling districts represent a rare alternative form of educational governance and have become an increasingly common response to low performance. However, limited research explores whether this effectively improves student outcomes. We track all takeovers nationwide from the late 1980s, when the first takeovers occurred, through 2016 and describe takeover districts. While these districts are low performing, we find academic performance plays less of a role in predicting takeover for districts serving larger concentrations of African American students. We then use a new data source allowing for cross‐state comparisons of student outcomes to estimate the effect of takeovers that occurred between 2011 and 2016. On average, we find no evidence that takeover generates academic benefits. Takeover appears to be disruptive in the early years of takeover, particularly to English Language Arts achievement, although the longer‐term effects are less clear. We also observe considerable heterogeneity of effects across districts. Takeovers were least effective in districts with higher baseline achievement and least harmful in majority‐Hispanic communities. Leaders should be cautious about using state takeover without considering local context and a better understanding of why some takeovers are more effective than others.
The Trade‐Off Between Work and Education: Evidence from Public Transportation Penetration to Arab Towns in Israel
Authors: Abu‐Qarn Aamer , Lichtman‐Sadot Shirlee
Published: October 2021

Disadvantaged communities are often geographically segregated from employment and higher education opportunities. Increasing access can entail substantial welfare gains, but this can also affect the trade‐off faced by young adults between investing in higher education and working for pay. We evaluate the introduction of bus services to Arab towns in Israel, which substantially and differentially increased access either to work only or to work and higher education opportunities among a disadvantaged population. Exploiting the variation that different bus line connections created in the cost of accessing higher education institutions, we find that young adult male responses are consistent with a trade‐off between investing in higher education and working for pay. For females, our results are less clear‐cut and while there is evidence of responses in terms of the probability of currently studying, we do not observe sufficiently concise labor market responses. Our results demonstrate the importance of accounting for potential reductions in educational attainment when expanding work opportunities to disadvantaged communities.
Restoration of erectile function by a combination of antiapoptosis by JNK inhibitor and preservation of smooth muscle or endothelium by hepatocyte growth factor in a rat model of cavernous nerve injury
Authors: Kim Soo Woong , Lee Junghoon , Oh Sohee , Son Hwancheol , Cho Min Chul
Published: October 2021

Background

Because of structural alterations in the corpus cavernosum after radical prostatectomy (RP), post‐RP erectile dysfunction remains a very difficult condition to treat. We aimed to determine if the combined administration of a Jun‐amino terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in the immediate post‐injury period would restore erectile function by antiapoptotic and pro‐regenerative effects through the rectification of molecular pathways related to the structural integrity of the penis in a rat model of bilateral cavernosal nerve crush injury (CNCI).

Methods

A total of 70 rats were divided into five groups: Sham surgery (S), CNCI (I), and once‐daily intraperitoneal administration of 10.0 mg/kg JNK inhibitor + twice‐weekly intracavernosal administration of low‐dose (2.1 μg), medium‐dose (4.2 μg), or high‐dose (8.4 μg) HGF (I + J + LH or I + J + MH or I + J + HH, respectively) in the immediate post‐injury period. Erectile responses to electrostimulation (1.0, 3.0, and 5.0 V), histological staining, caspase‐3 activity, and Western blotting were evaluated 9 days after surgery.

Results

Group I showed lower intracavernosal pressure (ICP)/mean arterial pressure (MAP) after stimulation at each voltage, lower area under the curve (AUC)/MAP after stimulation at each voltage, less smooth muscle (SM) content, a lower SM/collagen ratio, higher caspase‐3 activity, increased cJun phosphorylation, decreased protein expression of PECAM‐1, decreased cMet phosphorylation, and decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation compared to Group S. The SM content, SM/collagen ratio, protein expression of ICP/MAP, or AUC/MAP after stimulation at each voltage in Group I + J + LH were partially restored, despite the normalization of cJun phosphorylation and caspase‐3 activity. The ICP/MAP, AUC/MAP, caspase‐3 activity, SM content, protein expression of PECAM‐1, cJun phosphorylation, cMet phosphorylation, and eNOS phosphorylation in both Groups I + J + MH and I + J + HH were restored to the levels observed in Group S, while the SM/collagen ratio was significantly improved but not completely normalized.

Conclusions

Our data indicated that the combined administration of a JNK inhibitor and medium or high‐dose HGF to nerve‐injured rats in the immediate post‐injury period after CNCI may restore erectile function to a level comparable to the normal level by suppressing cavernosal apoptosis and preserving the integrity of SM or endothelium via rectification of the cJun and cMet/eNOS pathways.
Analytical method for the evaluation of the residual service life of prestressed concrete beams subjected to corrosion deterioration
Authors: Franceschini Lorenzo , Vecchi Francesca , Belletti Beatrice , Andrade Carmen , Peiretti Hugo‐Corres
Published: October 2021

Since catastrophic failures caused by corrosion deterioration have been observed worldwide, nowadays a key research topic consists in the reliable prediction of the long‐term performance of corroded reinforced concrete structures. In this article, firstly, a refined model for the assessment of the residual service life of prestressed concrete (PC) beams has been presented. The analytical model, according to the most recent formulations proposed in the scientific literature, allows to take into account the effects induced by corrosion over time in the calculation of bending, shear, and anchorage resistances. Secondly, a case study concerning a PC beam without transversal reinforcement, exposed to wet‐dry cycles using seawater, has been presented considering the spatial variability of corrosion. To this aim, a constant and a varying spatial distribution of corrosion have been assumed. Finally, the residual service life values, evaluated according to the two assumed spatial distributions of corrosion in strands, have been compared. The proposed model can be used for the prediction of the possible failure modes of PC beams over time, considering both the reduction of the mechanical properties of the prestressing steel and the bond degradation due to corrosion deterioration according to recent experimental evidence.
Conformity control of concrete durability parameters and its filtering effect on the design service life
Authors: Vereecken Eline , Caspeele Robby
Published: October 2021

Conformity control is applied in order to safeguard the quality of produced lots. Conformity criteria are characterized by an operating characteristic curve, quantifying the probability of acceptance in relation to a concrete lot with a specific quality. By applying conformity control, certain lots of concrete are accepted or rejected. This induces a filtering effect, which in case of conformity control of durability parameters leads to an effect on the design service life. For durability, limiting values for durability‐related properties can be proposed. Specifying conformity criteria for the durability parameters of concrete can enable to safeguard the quality of concrete products in relation to durability. This conformity control has a filtering effect on the distribution of these durability parameters. When, for example, considering the diffusion coefficient of concrete, this filtering effect results in a lower mean value and standard deviation, consequently (positively) influencing the service life. In this paper, conformity criteria for durability parameters are developed, and their effect on the design service life of reinforced concrete elements is quantified.
Colony composition and nutrient analysis of Polyrhachis dives ants, a natural prey of the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla)
Authors: Xu Na , Yu Jiaming , Zhang Fuhua , Wu Shibao , Zou Cuiyun , Wang Qiaoyun , Wang Yifu
Published: October 2021

The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) is a critically endangered mammal with a highly specialized diet. To enhance nutritional knowledge of its diet, we analyzed the colony composition of a nest of Polyrhachis dives ants, which is the key natural prey in the Chinese pangolin's diet. In addition, we determined the nutrient composition of the total colony compared with adult ants. Nutrients quantified in this study included: crude protein, crude fat, carbohydrate, and amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, as well as formic acid and chitin, which have not been reported in previous diet studies. Our results showed that the colony consisted of adults (82%), pupae (10%), larvae (7%), and eggs (1%) (fresh mass). Both the total colony and adult ants, respectively, contained high concentrations of crude protein (62.97% and 64.68%), chitin (49.25% and 60.40%), crude fat (10.12% and 9.91%) (dry matter basis), and formic acid (2.06% and 3.07%) (fresh mass). This implies that Chinese pangolin might prefer prey with high protein, high chitin, low fat, and low formic acid content. Colony and adult ants differed in chemical composition in many aspects, thus it might be unsuitable to feed Chinese pangolin with only adult ants. Chitin and formic acid may play important roles in the diet and selectivity of Chinese pangolin. This study provides reference information that may be useful for developing better artificial diets with more comprehensive nutrient compositional data to meet the nutritional requirements of the Chinese pangolin under managed feeding programs.
Fisheries Governance
Authors: Fabinyi Michael , Barclay Kate
Published: October 2021

This chapter examines the role that governance plays in shaping fishing livelihoods. This includes formal government regulation as well as other factors that shape fishing, such as markets, buyer requirements and social norms. Institutional arrangements serve as a key component of fishing livelihoods, by prescribing the conditions under which fishing livelihoods operate. In this chapter we sketch out some of the trends in fisheries governance across parts of the Asia-Pacific, before discussing examples in Australia and Indonesia.
On partition functions of refined Chern-Simons theories on S3
Authors: Avetisyan M.Y. , Mkrtchyan R.L.
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We present a new expression for the partition function of the refined Chern-Simons theory on S3 with an arbitrary gauge group, which is explicitly equal to 1 when the coupling constant is zero. Using this form of the partition function we show that the previously known Krefl-Schwarz representation of the partition function of the refined Chern-Simons theory on S3 can be generalized to all simply laced algebras.

For all non-simply laced gauge algebras, we derive similar representations of that partition function, which makes it possible to transform it into a product of multiple sine functions aiming at the further establishment of duality with the refined topological strings.
Dynamical Cobordism and Swampland Distance Conjectures
Authors: Buratti Ginevra , Calderón-Infante José , Delgado Matilda , Uranga Angel M.
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We consider spacetime-dependent solutions to string theory models with tadpoles for dynamical fields, arising from non-trivial scalar potentials. The solutions have necessarily finite extent in spacetime, and are capped off by boundaries at a finite distance, in a dynamical realization of the Cobordism Conjecture. We show that as the configuration approaches these cobordism walls of nothing, the scalar fields run off to infinite distance in moduli space, allowing to explore the implications of the Swampland Distance Conjecture. We uncover new interesting scaling relations linking the moduli space distance and the SDC tower scale to spacetime geometric quantities, such as the distance to the wall and the scalar curvature. We show that walls at which scalars remain at finite distance in moduli space correspond to domain walls separating different (but cobordant) theories/vacua; this still applies even if the scalars reach finite distance singularities in moduli space, such as conifold points.

We illustrate our ideas with explicit examples in massive IIA theory, M-theory on CY threefolds, and 10d non-supersymmetric strings. In 4d$$ \mathcal{N} $$N= 1 theories, our framework reproduces a recent proposal to explore the SDC using 4d string-like solutions.
Optimum breeding strategies using genomic and phenotypic selection for the simultaneous improvement of two traits
Authors: Marulanda Jose J. , Mi Xuefei , Utz H. Friedrich , Melchinger Albrecht E. , Würschum Tobias , Longin C. Friedrich H.
Published: October 2021

Key message

A breeding strategy combining genomic with one-stage phenotypic selection maximizes annual selection gain for net merit. Choice of the selection index strongly affects the selection gain expected in individual traits.

Selection indices using genomic information have been proposed in crop-specific scenarios. Routine use of genomic selection (GS) for simultaneous improvement of multiple traits requires information about the impact of the available economic and logistic resources and genetic properties (variances, trait correlations, and prediction accuracies) of the breeding population on the expected selection gain. We extended the R package “selectiongain” from single trait to index selection to optimize and compare breeding strategies for simultaneous improvement of two traits. We focused on the expected annual selection gain (ΔGa)for traits differing in their genetic correlation, economic weights, variance components, and prediction accuracies of GS. For all scenarios considered, breeding strategyGSrapid(one-stage GS followed by one-stage phenotypic selection) achieved higher ΔGathan classical two-stage phenotypic selection, regardless of the index chosen to combine the two traits and the prediction accuracy of GS. The Smith–Hazel or base index delivered higher ΔGafor net merit and individual traits compared to selection by independent culling levels, whereas the restricted index led to lowerΔGain net merit and divergent results for selection gain of individual traits. The differences among the indices depended strongly on the correlation of traits, their variance components, and economic weights, underpinning the importance of choosing the selection indices according to the goal of the breeding program. We demonstrate our theoretical derivations and extensions of the R package “selectiongain” with an example from hybrid wheat by designing indices to simultaneously improve grain yield and grain protein content or sedimentation volume.
Toy story or children story? Putting children and their rights at the forefront of the artificial intelligence revolution
Authors: Fosch-Villaronga E. , van der Hof S. , Lutz C. , Tamò-Larrieux A.
Published: October 2021

Policymakers need to start considering the impact smart connected toys (SCTs) have on children. Equipped with sensors, data processing capacities, and connectivity, SCTs targeting children increasingly penetrate pervasively personal environments. The network of SCTs forms the Internet of Toys (IoToys) and often increases children's engagement and playtime experience. Unfortunately, this young part of the population and, most of the time, their parents are often unaware of SCTs’ far-reaching capacities and limitations. The capabilities and constraints of SCTs create severe side effects at the technical, individual, and societal level. These side effects are often unforeseeable and unexpected. They arise from the technology's use and the interconnected nature of the IoToys, without necessarily involving malevolence from their creators. Although existing regulations and new ethical guidelines for artificial intelligence provide remedies to address some of the side effects, policymakers did not develop these redress mechanisms having children and SCTs in mind. This article provides an analysis of the arising side effects of SCTs and contrasts them with current regulatory redress mechanisms. We thereby highlight misfits and needs for further policymaking efforts.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor-related thrombocytopenia: incidence, risk factors and effect on survival
Authors: Haddad Tyler C. , Zhao Songzhu , Li Mingjia , Patel Sandip H. , Johns Andrew , Grogan Madison , Lopez Gabriella , Miah Abdul , Wei Lai , Tinoco Gabriel , Riesenberg Brian , Li Zihai , Meara Alexa , Bertino Erin M. , Kendra Kari , Otterson Gregory , Presley Carolyn J. , Owen Dwight H.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are associated with unique immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Immune-related thrombocytopenia (irTCP) is an understudied and poorly understood toxicity; little data are available regarding either risk of irTCP or the effect of irTCP on clinical outcomes of patients treated with ICI.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of sequential cancer patients treated with ICI between 2011 and 2017 at our institution. All patients who received ICI alone or in combination with other systemic therapy in any line of treatment were included; those with thrombocytopenia ≥ grade 3 at baseline were excluded. We calculated the incidence of ≥ grade 3 irTCP and overall survival (OS). Patient factors associated with irTCP were assessed.

Results

We identified 1,038 patients that met eligibility criteria. Overall, 89 (8.6%) patients developed grade ≥ 3 thrombocytopenia; eighteen were attributed to ICI (1.73% overall). Patients who developed grade ≥ 3 irTCP had worse overall survival compared to those whose thrombocytopenia was unrelated to ICI (4.17 vs. 10.8 month; HR. 1.94, 95% CI 1.13, 3.33; log-rank p = 0.0164). Patients with grade ≥ 3 irTCP also had worse survival compared to those without thrombocytopenia (4.17 vs. 13.31 months; HR 2.22, 95% CI 1.36, 3.62; log-rank p = 0.001). The incidence of irTCP appeared lowest among those treated with PD-1/L1 monotherapy (p = 0.059) and was not associated with cancer type, smoking status, age, gender, race, or line of therapy.

Conclusions

Unlike other irAEs, we found that irTCP was associated with worse overall survival. The incidence of irTCP appeared lowest among those treated with PD-1/L1 monotherapy.
Use of PET-CT in diagnostic workup of periprosthetic infection of hip and knee joints: significance in detecting additional infectious focus
Authors: Roschke E. , Kluge T. , Stallkamp F. , Roth A. , Zajonz D. , Hoffmann K. T. , Sabri O. , Kluge R. , Ghanem M.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The diagnosis and management of periprosthetic knee and hip infections as well as the identification and management of possible additional infectious foci is of great importance for successful therapy. This study analyses the importance of 18F deoxyglucose PET-CT (PET-CT) in the identification of additional infectious focus and subsequent impact on management of periprosthetic infection (PPI).

Material and methods

A retrospective analysis of the clinical data and findings in the period from January 2008 to December 2018 was carried out. One hundred and four patients with in-hospital treatment due to PPI of a hip or knee joint were identified and included in this study. All patients underwent a standardized clinical examination and further surgical and antibiotic therapy. The reevaluation of performed PET-CTs was specifically carried out with regard to the local PPI or detection of secondary foci.

Results

PET-CT successfully verified the PPI in 84.2% of the patients. A total of 78 possible additional foci were detected in PET-CT in 56 (53.8%) of the examined patients. Predilection sites for possible secondary foci were joints (42.3%), pulmonary (15.4%), ear-nose-throat (15.4%), spine (11.5%), and the musculocutaneous tissues (11.5%). Fifty-four positive PET-CT findings were confirmed clinically with need of additional adequate treatment.

Conclusion

PET-CT is a valuable diagnostic tool to confirm periprosthetic joint infection. At the same time, the whole-body PET/CT may detect additional foci of infection with impact on subsequent treatment strategy. PET was of special value in detecting infections at distant locations far from the primary infected joint in significant number. These distant infection locations can be potential cause of a re-infection. This clearly reflects the need of their diagnosis.
Object-based illumination transferring and rendering for applications of mixed reality
Authors: Xu Di , Li Zhen , Cao Qi
Published: October 2021

In applications of augmented reality or mixed reality, rendering virtual objects in real scenes with consistent illumination is crucial for realistic visualization experiences. Prior learning-based methods reported in the literature usually attempt to reconstruct complicated high dynamic range environment maps from limited input, and rely on a separate rendering pipeline to light up the virtual object. In this paper, an object-based illumination transferring and rendering algorithm is proposed to tackle this problem within a unified framework. Given a single low dynamic range image, instead of recovering lighting environment of the entire scene, the proposed algorithm directly infers the relit virtual object. It is achieved by transferring implicit illumination features which are extracted from its nearby planar surfaces. A generative adversarial network is adopted in the proposed algorithm for implicit illumination features extraction and transferring. Compared to previous works in the literature, the proposed algorithm is more robust, as it is able to efficiently recover spatially varying illumination in both indoor and outdoor scene environments. Experiments have been conducted. It is observed that notable experiment results and comparison outcomes have been obtained quantitatively and qualitatively by the proposed algorithm in different environments. It shows the effectiveness and robustness for realistic virtual object insertion and improved realism.