bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel thermal treatment model to decontaminate airborne SARS Cov‐2 virus for residential and commercial buildings
Authors: Soni Neelesh , Hanmaiahgari Prashanth R. , Reddy V. Mahendra
Published: May 2022

In the COVID‐19 pandemic, control of airborne virus transmission is exceptionally challenging as it is attached to suspended particles in the air and stays for an extended time. Air contaminated with airborne viruses holds a substantial risk for household transmission. In this study, a novel thermal treatment system is modeled based on porous heating for the decontamination of airborne SARS‐Cov‐2. The model includes an air heating domain, insulated chamber, buffer tank and heat exchanger. The airborne SARS‐Cov‐2 is decontaminated when passing through a porous heat pipe and the insulated chamber for an anticipated dwelling period of more than 5 min at 105°C and further stored in a buffer tank for natural cooling. The obligatory decontaminated air is allowed in the residential space under ambient conditions passing through a heat exchanger. The numerical investigation of the porous pipe model at different L/D ratios with altered porosities aims to establish the best‐performing porous domain. Besides this, the buffer tank is intended to maintain buffer storage of the treated air and significant natural cooling before passing to the heat exchanger. A solar PV module is proposed to meet the prerequisite energy requirements of the equipped devices.
When to use a cookie, and when to use a ruler: A response to Byers‐Heinlein, Bergmann and Savelei's “six solutions for more reliable infant research”
Authors: Flack Zoe M. , Skelton Alice E.
Published: May 2022

Here, we provide a response of broad agreement to the authors' six suggestions for improving the reliability of infant research. We also draw attention to three points we feel are important additions. We discuss the importance of considering measurement validity alongside measurement reliability as both contribute to overall measurement error, as well as emphasizing the selection of methods that are theory driven and balancing this with the need for precise or accurate measures. We also briefly discuss how differences in training, access to resources and other factors can influence choices of method and analysis. Sometimes, simple is good enough.
Probing combinational influence of design variables on bone biomechanical response around dental implant‐supported fixed prosthesis
Authors: Chakraborty Arindam , Datta Pallab , Kumar Cheruvu Siva , Majumder Santanu , Roychowdhury Amit
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to understand the effect of physiological and dental implant‐related parameter variations on the osseointegration for an implant‐supported fixed prosthesis. Eight design factors were considered (implant shape, diameter, and length; thread pitch, depth, and profile; cantilever [CL] length and implant‐loading protocol). Total 36 implantation scenarios were simulated using finite element method based on Taguchi L36 orthogonal array. Three patient‐specific bone conditions were also simulated by scaling the density and Young's modulus of a mandible sample to mimic weak, normal, and strong bones. Taguchi method was employed to determine the significance of each design factor in controlling the peri‐implant cortical bone microstrain. For normal bone condition, CL length had the maximum contribution (28%) followed by implant diameter (18%), thread pitch (14%), implant length (8%), and thread profile (5%). For strong bone condition, CL and implant diameter had equal contribution (32%) followed by thread pitch (7%) and implant length (5%). For weak bone condition, implant diameter had the highest contribution (31%) followed by CL length (30%), thread pitch (11%) and implant length (8%). The presence of distal CL in dental framework was found to be the most influential design factor, which can cause high strain in the cervical cortical bone. It was seen that implant diameter had more effect compared to implant length toward peri‐implant bone biomechanical response. Implant‐loading time had no significant effect towards peri‐implant bone biomechanical response, signifying immediate loading is possible with sufficient mechanical retention.
circ_0004872 inhibits proliferation, invasion, and glycolysis of oral squamous cell carcinoma by sponged miR‐424‐5p
Authors: Dai Yinhua , Zhu Yalin , Xu Houyi
Published: May 2022

Objective

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common oral malignant tumors. circ_0004872 can inhibit the progression of gastric cancer, but its effect on the growth and metastasis of OSCC is still unclear.

Methods

qRT‐PCR was used to detect the expression levels of circ_0004872 and miR‐424‐5p in cancer tissues of OSCC patients and adjacent normal tissues, OSCC cell lines, and human normal oral keratinocytes (HOK). CCK‐8, cell colony formation, flow cytometry, and transwell assay were used to detect cell proliferation rate, viability, apoptosis rate, and invasion ability. Use glucose/lactic acid kit to assay cell glycolysis ability. The dual‐luciferase reporter gene experiment and RIP experiment verified the relationship between circ_0004872 and miR‐424‐5p. The protein levels were examined by Western blot.

Results

The expression of circ_0004872 was significantly downregulated in OSCC tissues and cells, and the overexpression of circ_0004872 inhibited the proliferation, vitality, invasion, and glycolysis of OSCC cells, and promoted apoptosis. The expression of miR‐424‐5p was greatly upregulated in OSCC tissues and OSCC cells. circ_0004872 can adsorb miR‐424‐5p in OSCC cells, and circ_0004872 can reverse the promoting effect of miR‐424‐5p overexpression on the process of OSCC cells.

Conclusion

circ_0004872 suppresses the proliferation, invasion, and glycolysis of OSCC cells by sponged miR‐424‐5p, and promotes apoptosis, which can be used as a potential target for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of OSCC.
Determination of fipronil and its metabolites in environmental water samples by meltblown nonwoven fabric‐based solid‐phase extraction combined with gas chromatography‐electron capture detection
Authors: Zhao Qin , Yue Shi‐Wen , Zhou Yi‐Lian , Yang Jin‐Jie
Published: May 2022

In this study, a new method for the determination of fipronil and its three metabolites in environmental water samples was developed based on meltblown nonwoven fabric solid‐phase extraction combined with gas chromatography‐electron capture detection. As the core material of medical masks, meltblown nonwoven fabric is made of polypropylene superfine fibers which are randomly distributed and bonded together with a relatively large specific surface area and good permeability. Polypropylene as a high molecular hydrocarbon‐based polymer has the characteristics of good hydrophobicity and lipophilicity, which can be applied for the separation and enrichment of hydrophobic substances in food, environment, and biological samples. The meltblown nonwoven fabric is soft and can fill the solid‐phase extraction cartridge tightly. This aspect also makes it suitable to be used as an ideal solid‐phase extraction sorbent. A series of parameters influencing the extraction efficiency were investigated, and under the optimized conditions, fipronil and its three metabolites had a good linear relationship in the range of 0.2–100 μg/L with a correlation coefficient R2 of more than 0.999. The recoveries at three spiked concentrations were in the range of 99.2–107.3% with the relative standard deviations less than 9.8% (intra‐day) and 8.1% (inter‐day). The limit of detection for the four target analytes was in the range of 0.02–0.06 μg/L. Finally, this method was successfully applied in the analysis of fipronil and its three metabolites in various types of environmental water samples.
Modified marker and cell schemes for Stokes equations with Dirichlet boundary condition
Authors: Guo Qing , Rui Hongxing , Li Xiaoli
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we proposed a modified marker and cell (MMAC) method for solving the steady‐state Stokes equations with Dirichlet boundary condition. We reconstruct the marker and cell (MAC) schemes by using the quadratic Lagrange extrapolation method to approximate the value of ghost points near the boundary. First, we prove the stability of the proposed scheme rigorously. Then, we obtain the second‐order superconvergence for pressure in the discrete
norm and velocity in the discrete
norm by constructing auxiliary functions and discretizing parameters. Meanwhile, we present two MMAC schemes for the time‐dependent Stokes equations by a similar method. Finally, we provide some numerical experiments to confirm our theoretical analysis.
Molecular pathological insights reveal a high number of unfavorable risk patients among children treated for medulloblastoma and CNS‐PNET in Oslo 2005–2017
Authors: Niehusmann Pitt , Stensvold Einar , Leske Henning , Pietsch Torsten , Goschzik Tobias , Gielen Gerrit H. , Due‐Tønnessen Bernt , Frič Radek , Nilssen Yngvar , Brandal Petter
Published: May 2022

Background

An unexplained regional difference in survival was observed in previous publications on outcome for children treated for medulloblastoma and supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor (CNS‐PNET) in Norway. We aimed now to reevaluate and perform a retrospective molecular‐based risk stratification of all embryonal brain tumors (excluding atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors [ATRT]) in pediatric patients, who underwent surgery and treatment at Oslo University Hospital between 2005 and 2017.

Procedure

Specimens from all patients <20 years of age with initial diagnosis of medulloblastoma or CNS‐PNET were reviewed. Molecular analyses comprised NanoString gene expression, molecular inversion probe profiling, Sanger sequencing, and 850K‐methylation analysis. Whole chromosomal aberration signatures were assessed in standard‐risk non‐WNT/non‐SHH medullobastomas for molecular risk stratification.

Results

We identified 53 non‐ATRT embryonal tumors among which 33 were medulloblastomas. Molecular genetic parameters including whole chromosomal aberration signatures allowed classification of 17 medulloblastomas as molecular high risk. These patients had a significantly worse 5‐year overall survival than the remaining 16 medulloblastoma patients (52.9% vs. 87.1% p = 0.036). Five patients in our cohort had tumors that are considered as new entities in the 2021 classification of tumors of the central nervous system. Five tumors were re‐classified as nonembryonal tumors after review.

Conclusion

Molecular‐based risk stratification of standard‐risk non‐WNT/non‐SHH medulloblastoma enabled superior identification of medulloblastomas with dismal prognosis. Our cohort demonstrated a significantly increased fraction of standard‐risk non‐WNT/non‐SHH medulloblastoma with molecular high‐risk profile compared to other studies, which might have contributed to previously reported unfavorable outcome data.
Use of exhausted biosorbent ash as ecofriendly filler in natural rubber
Authors: Blagojev Nevena , Šćiban Marina , Vasić Vesna , Kukić Dragana , Pavličević Jelena , Lubura Jelena , Bera Oskar
Published: May 2022

Biosorption is a promising cost‐effective clean‐up technology for treating wastewater laden with heavy metals. However, the commercial application of biosorption technologies has been limited because a large amount of toxic waste is left behind in this process. The post‐sorbents need to be handled in a way that does not negatively affect the environment. In this research, one possibility to solve this problem was proposed and developed: incineration of used adsorbent, followed by the use of the obtained ash as a filler in rubber production. The results showed that the addition of biosorbent ash does not significantly affect the rubber mechanical and elastic properties. The ash addition affected only the beginning of the vulcanization by increasing the activation energy of the curing chemical reaction. This property can be used to prevent the premature start of vulcanization. Furthermore, it was determined whether and to what extent the ash‐filled rubber releases metal ions in contact with water. Results showed that the amount of copper leached from rubber samples was negligible compared to the copper that remained permanently built in the rubber. Therefore, this novel approach to utilizing saturated biosorbents as rubber fillers is acceptable from the environmental safety perspective. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Associations between mental health and care experiences among older adults with cancer
Authors: Lines Lisa M. , Barch Daniel H. , Zabala Diana , Halpern Michael T. , Jacobsen Paul B. , Mollica Michelle A.
Published: May 2022

Objective

We sought to understand whether people with cancer who received mental health services reported different care experiences than those who did not.

Methods

We used Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)‐Consumer Assessment of Health Providers and Systems (CAHPS) linked data to identify Medicare beneficiaries aged 66 and over diagnosed with solid tumor malignancies between 8/2006 and 12/2013. We identified mental health services using claims spanning 12 months before cancer diagnosis through up to 5 years afterward. Outcomes were care experience ratings (e.g., Overall Care) and composite measures (e.g., Doctor Communication). We estimated frequentist and Bayesian regression models adjusted for standard confounders, including sociodemographics, general and mental health status (MHS), and other characteristics. Models included interaction terms to understand whether mental healthcare changes self‐reported experiences for individuals with adverse MHS.

Results

Approximately 22% (n = 4998 individuals with cancer) had a mental health disorder claim; 17% of these reported fair/poor MHS versus only 7% of those in the cancer‐only cohort (without a mental health disorder claim). Before adjusting for mental healthcare utilization and case‐mix, worse MHS was associated with worse care experiences (p < 0.001 for all six measures). After accounting for mental health disorder‐related healthcare utilization and case mix, multivariable regression models showed no associations between MHS and worse care experiences.

Conclusions

Care for mental health disorders mediates the association between MHS and perceived care experiences. The results suggest that mental health treatment may improve the self‐reported experiences of care for older adults with cancer and adverse mental health issues.
Research on Constant Speed Tension and Compression Mechanical Properties of Azide Polyether Propellant
Authors: Wu Weijing , Li Haiyang , Shen Zhibin , Cui Huiru
Published: May 2022

Azide polyether propellant is a new type of high‐energy solid propellant with broad application prospects. In order to measure the mechanical properties of azide propellant, tensile tests of propellant under different loading conditions were carried out, and compression test pieces of azide propellant of different sizes were designed and tested, and the tensile and compressive stress‐strain curves of azide propellant were obtained. Through qualitative and quantitative analysis, the influence law of loading rate and temperature on the mechanical properties of propellant was obtained, the linear variation law of mechanical properties parameters with logarithmic strain rate was analyzed, and the mathematical relationship between propellant stiffness and strength was found. The master curve of the compressive initial modulus and maximum strength of the azide propellant was drawn. The test results can provide theoretical basis for the performance research of azide propellant and the nondestructive testing of this type of engine.
Three cytochrome P450 CYP4 family genes regulated by the CncC signaling pathway mediate phytochemical susceptibility in the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum
Authors: Zhang Yonglei , Yu Runnan , Tang Jing , Du Liheng , Wang Yihan , Wang Jiatao , Liu Linsu , Gao Shanshan , Li Bin
Published: May 2022

Background

Insect cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) play a crucial role in phytochemical metabolism and tolerance. Three P450 genes (TcCYP4Q3, TcCYP4Q5, and TcCYP4Q7) are associated with the response of eugenol in Tribolium castaneum. However, the responding mechanisms of these P450 genes to eugenol remain unknown.

Results

Here, spatiotemporal expression profiling revealed that TcCYP4Q3 and TcCYP4Q5 were most highly expressed in late adult, while TcCYP4Q7 was predominantly expressed in late larva; and all of these three P450 genes were mainly expressed in the fat body of larvae. Furthermore, the expressions of these three P450 genes were significantly up‐regulated after exposure to eugenol, and depletion of them enhanced the susceptibility of beetles to eugenol. Interestingly, RNA interference (RNAi) against the CncC gene, a transcription factor of CncC signaling pathway associated with regulation of insect P450s in response to phytochemicals, reduced the transcripts of these three P450 genes following exposure to eugenol. Investigation of CncC signaling pathway showed that this pathway could be activated by eugenol.

Conclusion

Altogether, the results indicate that these three P450 genes are regulated by CncC signaling pathway to participate in the susceptibility of Tribolium castaneum to phytochemicals. These findings will aid implications for the development of novel therapeutics to control pest. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Paeoniflorin ameliorates lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute liver injury by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation via SIRT1/FOXO1a/SOD2 signaling in rats
Authors: Li Lin , Wang Hui , Zhao Shuping , Zhao Yuan , Chen Yongping , Zhang Jiuyan , Wang Chuqiao , Sun Ning , Fan Honggang
Published: May 2022

Acute liver injury (ALI) is a poor prognosis and high mortality complication of sepsis. Paeoniflorin (PF) has remarkable anti‐inflammatory effects in different disease models. Here, we explored the protective effect and underlying molecular mechanisms of PF against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI. Sprague‐Dawley rats received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of PF for 7 days, 1 h after the last administration, and rats were injected i.p. 10 mg/kg LPS. PF improved liver structure and function, reduced hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and methane dicarboxylic aldehyde (MDA) levels, and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Western blot analysis suggested that PF significantly inhibited expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐18) and inhibited activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. PF or mitochondrial ROS scavenger (mito‐TEMPO) significantly improved liver mitochondrial function by scavenging mitochondrial ROS (mROS), restoring mitochondrial membrane potential loss and increasing level of ATP and enzyme activity of complex I and III. In addition, PF increased expression of sirtuin‐1 (SIRT1), forkhead box O1 (FOXO1a) and manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD2), and increased FOXO1a nuclear retention. However, the inhibitor of SIRT1 (EX527) abolished the protective effect of PF. Taken together, PF promotes mROS clearance to inhibit mitochondrial damage and activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome via SIRT1/FOXO1a/SOD2 signaling.
Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) essential oil: A review on its composition, biological, and pharmacological activities
Authors: Ashokkumar Kaliyaperumal , Simal‐Gandara Jesus , Murugan Muthusamy , Dhanya Mannananil Krishnankutty , Pandian Arjun
Published: May 2022

Myristica fragrans (Houtt.) is an evergreen tree native to the Maluku Islands, Indonesia. M. fragrans kernel is extensively used in Indian traditional medicines to treat various diseases. Several studies attempt to compile and interpret the pharmacological potential of Myristica fragrans (Houtt.) aqueous and various chemical extracts. Thus, the pharmacological potential of nutmeg essential oil has not been reviewed phytochemically and pharmacologically. Therefore, the present study aimed to share appropriate literature evidence regarding the plant essential oil chemical composition and therapeutic potential of Myristica fragrans essential oil (MFEO). MFEO of leaf, mace, kernel, and seed were used worldwide as potential Ayurvedic medicine and fragrance. MFEO extracted by various methods and oil yield was 0.7–3.2, 8.1–10.3, 0.3–12.5, and 6.2–7.6% in leaf, mace, seed, and kernel. The primary chemical constituents of MFEO were sabinene, eugenol, myristicin, caryophyllene, β‐myrcene, and α‐pinene. Clinical and experimental investigations have confirmed the antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, anticancer, antimalarial, anticonvulsant, hepatoprotective, antiparasitic, insecticidal, and nematocidal activities of MFEO. It is the first attempt to compile oil yield, composition, and the biological activities of MFEO. In future, several scientific investigations are required to understand the mechanism of action of MFEO and their bioactive constituents.
Extra predictability from a seamless approach for Asian summer monsoon precipitation from days to weeks
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Tang Youmin , Song Xunshu
Published: May 2022

Multiple‐scale atmospheric or oceanic prediction has been a challenging issue due to the different dynamical and thermodynamic processes involved and the uncertainty inherent in highly nonlinear and stochastic forcing, such as the prediction of Asian summer monsoon (ASM) precipitation. Seamless prediction was proposed to address this issue. The idea behind this approach is that temporal averaging reduces the spread of the prediction ensemble but retains the approximate first moment, which effectively increases the signal‐to‐noise ratio of the prediction. In this study, the superiority of the seamless prediction was assessed for the ASM precipitation at time‐scales from days to weeks. The hindcasts from the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts in the Subseasonal to Seasonal ensemble dataset were used for the detailed assessment. Results show significant advantages of the seamless approach in evaluating the ASM precipitation prediction on time‐scales ranging from 2 days to 2 weeks. Furthermore, the source of the average window predictability was analysed for two lead times with significantly superior prediction accuracy: lead times of 4d4d and 3w3w. For 4d4d, the Madden–Julian Oscillation is dominant, while the role of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation phase becomes substantial for 3w3w. These results offer a detailed analysis for the prediction of ASM precipitation within a framework of seamless prediction, benefiting further interpretation of seamless prediction of ASM precipitation.
Development of disaster‐responding special‐purpose machinery: Results of experiments
Authors: Kim Jin Tak , Park Sangshin , Han SangChul , Kim Jinhyeon , Kim Hyogon , Choi Young‐Ho , Seo Jaehong , Chon Sanguk , Kim Jungyeong , Cho Jungsan
Published: May 2022

The frequent occurrence of disasters has prompted the development of efficient disaster‐responding equipment. This study deals with the design of special‐purpose machinery and its performance assessment. We defined scenarios through the environmental analysis of disaster situations and expert consulting. We also formulated a set of design specifications by analyzing the objectives of the tasks that must be performed at disaster sites, based on simulated scenarios and existing disaster response machinery. The disaster‐responding special‐purpose machinery was designed to perform various tasks and display rapid movement in disaster situations. Moreover, this paper presents the control structure configured to operate the developed machinery. The performance of the special‐purpose machinery was assessed through different scenario tests.
Synthetic biology and opportunities within agricultural crops
Authors: Sargent Demi , Conaty Warren C. , Tissue David T. , Sharwood Robert E.
Published: May 2022

Conventional breeding techniques have been integral to the development of many agronomically important traits in numerous crops. The adoption of modern biotechnology approaches further advanced and refined trait development and introduction beyond the scope possible through conventional breeding. However, crop yields continue to be challenged by abiotic and biotic factors that require the development of traits that are more genetically complex than can be addressed through conventional breeding or traditional genetic engineering. Therefore, more advanced trait development approaches are required to maintain and improve yields and production efficiency, especially as climate change accelerates the incidence of biotic and abiotic challenges to food and fibre crops. Synthetic biology (SynBio) encompasses approaches that design and construct new biological elements (e.g., enzymes, genetic circuits, cells) or redesign existing biological systems to build new and improved functions. SynBio ‘upgrades’ the potential of genetic engineering, which involves the transfer of single genes from one organism to another. This technology can enable the introduction of multiple genes in a single transgenic event, either derived from a foreign organism or synthetically generated. It can also enable the assembly of novel genomes from the ground up from a set of standardised genetic parts, which can then be transferred into the target cell or organism. New opportunities to advance breeding applications through exploiting SynBio technology include the introduction of new genes of known function, artificially creating genetic variation, topical applications of small RNAs as pesticides and potentially speeding up the production of new cultivars with elite traits. This review will draw upon case studies to demonstrate the potential application of SynBio to improve crop productivity and resistance to various challenges. Here, we outline specific solutions to challenges including fungal diseases, insect pests, heat and drought stress and nutrient acquisition in a range of important crops using the SynBio toolkit.
Growing Impact of Carbohydrate‐Based Organocatalysts
Authors: Singh Sumit K. , Mishra Nidhi , Kumar Sunil , Jaiswal Manoj K. , Tiwari Vinod K.
Published: May 2022

Organocatalysis has emerged as one of the most progressive and prevailing field of organic synthesis to assist green chemistry. Constantly increasing demand of promising scaffolds to develop potent organocatalysts has impelled researchers to utilize the unique traits of carbohydrate moiety in this field. Biological significance of carbohydrates, as well as, their high natural abundance as chiral non‐racemic material, presence of multiple hydroxyl groups, several stereogenic centres, and easily modifiable structure make this moiety an appropriate skeleton to develop organocatalysts to enhance productivity and selectivity of a chemical transformation. 21stCentury has witnessed the progress of carbohydrate moiety in development of organocatalysts from obscurity to eminence. This review encapsulates the importance of carbohydrate scaffolds in organocatalysis mainly dealing with the synthesis and applications carbohydrate‐derived organocatalyst in different common organic reactions with their significance and future purspectives.
More than a year of pandemic: Longitudinal assessment of anxiety and depressive symptoms in the argentine general population during the COVID‐19 outbreak
Authors: del‐Valle Macarena Verónica , López‐Morales Hernán , Gelpi‐Trudo Rosario , Poó Fernando Martín , García Matías Jonás , Yerro‐Avincetto Matías , Andrés María Laura , Canet‐Juric Lorena , Urquijo Sebastián
Published: May 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has radically changed daily life and the way we interact with others. It has also brought negative psychological consequences: several studies have reported increased levels of distress symptomatology at the onset of the pandemic. However, few longitudinal studies have been carried out, and even fewer in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyse longitudinally the anxiety and depressive symptomatology of the Argentine general population during the first 13 months of the pandemic. The total sample included 988 adults (ages 18–77) from different regions of Argentina. Open‐access surveys were distributed via social media at five time points (March, April, May, August 2020 and April 2021). Depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed through the Beck Depression Inventory‐II and the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory. Mixed repeated‐measures ANOVA were applied, with time as a within‐subjects factor, and socioeconomic status, gender, and age group as between‐subjects factors. Results showed a progressive increases in anxiety (F (27.78, 3417.60) = 62.88, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.060) and depression (F (3.42, 3373.75) = 84.78, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.079) symptoms in the general population throughout the pandemic (except for a slight decrease in anxiety in Wave 2). All of the between‐subjects factors showed significant effects on both types of symptoms: female gender, younger age and lower income were associated with greater depression and anxiety in all waves. A time‐age interaction effect was found (F (10.26, 3364.05) = 2.99, p < 0.01, ηp2 = 0.009): after the third wave, depressive symptoms tended to decrease or stabilise in the young adult group, whereas there was a positive linear increase in the older groups. This study provided evidence that anxiety and depression symptoms tend to increase during crisis contexts, and that this effect is even more pronounced for certain vulnerable population groups. Mental health monitoring and support interventions should be included in government strategies to deal with the long‐term impact of the pandemic.
A Synthetic Protocell‐Based Heparin Scavenger
Authors: Liu Qing , Yang Shuo , Seitz Iris , Pistikou Anna‐Maria Makri , de Greef Tom F. A. , Kostiainen Mauri A.
Published: May 2022

Heparin is a commonly applied blood anticoagulant agent in clinical use. After treatment, excess heparin needs to be removed to circumvent side effects and recover the blood‐clotting cascade. Most existing heparin antidotes rely on direct heparin binding and complexation, yet selective compartmentalization and sequestration of heparin would be beneficial for safety and efficiency. However, such systems have remained elusive. Herein, a semipermeable protein‐based microcompartment (proteinosome) is loaded with a highly positively charged chitosan derivative, which can induce electrostatics‐driven internalization of anionic guest molecules inside the compartment. Chitosan‐loaded proteinosomes are subsequently employed to capture heparin, and an excellent heparin‐scavenging performance is demonstrated under physiologically relevant conditions. Both the highly positive scavenger and the polyelectrolyte complex are confined and shielded by the protein compartment in a time‐dependent manner. Moreover, selective heparin‐scavenging behavior over serum albumin is realized through adjusting the localized scavenger or surrounding salt concentrations at application‐relevant circumstances. In vitro studies reveal that the cytotoxicity of the cationic scavenger and the produced polyelectrolyte complex is reduced by protocell shielding. Therefore, the proteinosome‐based systems may present a novel polyelectrolyte‐scavenging method for biomedical applications.
Sustainable‐Macromolecule‐Assisted Preparation of Cross‐linked, Ultralight, Flexible Graphene Aerogel Sensors toward Low‐Frequency Strain/Pressure to High‐Frequency Vibration Sensing
Authors: Zeng Zhihui , Wu Na , Yang Weidong , Xu Hao , Liao Yaozhong , Li Chenwei , Luković Mirko , Yang Yunfei , Zhao Shanyu , Su Zhongqing , Lu Xuehong
Published: May 2022

Ultralight and highly flexible aerogel sensors, composed of reduced graphene oxide cross‐linked by sustainable‐macromolecule‐derived carbon, are prepared via facile freeze‐drying and thermal annealing. The synergistic combination of cross‐linked graphene nanosheets and micrometer‐sized honeycomb pores gives rise to the exceptional properties of the aerogels, including superior compressibility and resilience, good mechanical strength and durability, satisfactory fire‐resistance, and outstanding electromechanical sensing performances. The corresponding aerogel sensors, operated at an ultralow voltage of 0.2 V, can efficiently respond to a wide range of strains (0.1–80%) and pressures (13−2750 Pa) even at temperatures beyond 300 °C. Moreover, the ultrahigh‐pressure sensitivity of 10 kPa−1 and excellent sensing stability and durability are accomplished. Strikingly, the aerogel sensors can also sense the vibration signals with ultrahigh frequencies of up to 4000 Hz for >1 000 000 cycles, significantly outperforming those of other sensors. These enable successful demonstration of the exceptional performance of the cross‐linked graphene‐based biomimetic aerogels for sensitive monitoring of mechanical signals, e.g., acting as wearable devices for monitoring human motions, and for nondestructive monitoring of cracks on engineering structures, showing the great potential of the aerogel sensors as next‐generation electronics.
Soft, stretchable, wireless intelligent three‐lead electrocardiograph monitors with feedback functions for warning of potential heart attack
Authors: Yiu Chunki , Liu Yiming , Zhang Chao , Zhou Jingkun , Jia Huiling , Wong Tsz H. , Huang Xingcan , Li Jian , Yao Kuanming , Yau Ming K. , Zhao Ling , Li Hu , Zhang Binbin , Park Wooyoung , Zhang Yuanting , Wang Zuankai , Yu Xinge
Published: May 2022

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are fatal chronic diseases, where electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring could be a prominent solution for early diagnosis. In spite of available commercialized, multilead ECG devices, bulky formats, discontinuous monitoring, and no safety alarm system significantly limit their practical applications. Herein, we present a soft, and stretchable, three‐lead ECG device allowing continuous monitoring and wireless transmission of ECG signals. A newly developed organohydrogel patch with a strong adhesive ability (~9.9 kPa) and higher conductivity (~6.5 kΩ) is applied for high‐quality ECG signals collection. With a long operation duration (6.5 h) and wireless transmission distance (20.9 m), it could fulfill most of the daily applications. Machine learning algorithms and the graphical user interface are used for real‐time ECG monitoring and cardiac abnormalities diagnosis. The vibratory flexible actuator, which is triggered by cardiac abnormalities that need immediate medical treatment, is also integrated as a warning system for the user. As a newly reported stretchable multi‐lead ECG device for long‐term ECG signal monitoring, there is a high potential for improving users' life quality with the high‐risk population of CVDs.
Leichtbaukonstruktionen aus Feinblech
Authors: Trautz Martin , Pofahl Thorsten , Seiter Alex , Hirt Gerhard , Reitmaier Lisa‐Marie , Bailly David
Published: May 2022

Der Einsatz von Stahl im Bauwesen war über viele Jahre von engen Vorgaben hinsichtlich der einsetzbaren Halbzeuge geprägt und verlieh Stahlkonstruktionen häufig den Charakter von „Baukastensystemen“. Die Modernisierung der Bearbeitungsmethoden veränderte diese Gegebenheiten. Im digitalen Zeitalter ist es nunmehr möglich, nicht nur aufseiten der Produktion, sondern auch aufseiten des Entwurfs, der Darstellung, der Planung und der Konstruktion eine Prozesskette zu erstellen, mit deren Unterstützung hoch individualisierte Stahlbauteile erzeugt werden können, die Teil wiederum von individualisierten Bauwerken sind. Mit diesen Mitteln lassen sich Leichtbaukonstruktionen aus Blech mit individuellem Design erstellen, wie zwei Prototypen, die an der RWTH Aachen in Kooperation des Lehrstuhls Tragkonstruktionen mit dem Institut für Bildsame Formgebung entstanden sind, eindrücklich demonstrieren. Die neuartige Bauweise aus Feinblech erschließt einen für den Stahlbau bisher eher unzugänglichen Formenkanon und erweist sich als äußerst materialsparend und liegt so im Trend des nachhaltigen Bauens unserer Zeit.
Gender representation and academic achievement among STEM‐interested students in college STEM courses
Authors: Bowman Nicholas A. , Logel Christine , LaCosse Jennifer , Jarratt Lindsay , Canning Elizabeth A. , Emerson Katherine T. U. , Murphy Mary C.
Published: May 2022

Substantial gender equity gaps in postsecondary degree completion persist within many science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, and these disparities have not narrowed during the 21st century. Various explanations of this phenomenon have been offered; one possibility that has received limited attention is that the sparse representation of women itself has adverse effects on the academic achievement—and ultimately the persistence and graduation—of women who take STEM courses. This study explored the relationship between two forms of gender representation (i.e., the proportion of female students within a course and the presence of a female instructor) and grades within a sample of 11,958 STEM‐interested undergraduates enrolled in 8686 different STEM courses at 20 colleges and universities. Female student representation within a course predicted greater academic achievement in STEM for all students, and these findings were generally stronger among female students than male students. Female students also consistently benefitted more than male students from having a female STEM instructor. These findings were largely similar across a range of student and course characteristics and were robust to different analytic approaches; a notable exception was that female student representation had particularly favorable outcomes for female students (relative to male students) within mathematics/statistics and computer science courses.
The Intercultural Dimension in the New Zealand Language Teaching Context
Authors: East Martin , Tolosa Constanza , Howard Jocelyn , Biebricher Christine , Scott Adèle
Published: May 2022

Chapter 10.1007/978-981-19-0991-7_2 highlighted the reality that, on the one hand, the development of language learners’ intercultural capability has become a significant focus of attention in a range of contexts across the globe. On the other hand, studies reveal the complexities involved with both defining and operationalising the intercultural dimension. Chapter 3 revisits New Zealand as the site for the study presented in this book. It expands on the brief introduction to the New Zealand context given in Chapter 10.1007/978-981-19-0991-7_1 and incorporates a review of New Zealand-based studies into the intercultural dimension of L2 learning.
Introducing the Two-Year Study
Authors: East Martin , Tolosa Constanza , Howard Jocelyn , Biebricher Christine , Scott Adèle
Published: May 2022

Chapter 10.1007/978-981-19-0991-7_4 outlines the methodological underpinnings and the research procedures of the project reported in this book. The first part addresses the approaches and methodologies relevant to the research questions posed, followed by a discussion of the selected data collection methods and a consideration of related ethical issues. The next part provides a full description of the participants and the research procedures.
Journeys Towards Intercultural Capability: The Students’ Voices
Authors: East Martin , Tolosa Constanza , Howard Jocelyn , Biebricher Christine , Scott Adèle
Published: May 2022

Chapter 5 presents the inquiries undertaken by the five teacher partners as they, for the first time, reframed their language learning programmes to incorporate an explicit intercultural stance with their 11 to 13 year-old beginner language learners. The chapter opens with vignettes of what the teachers did with their students, based primarily on observational data. However, the key focus of the chapter is on the students’ journeys towards intercultural capability, and the chapter draws extensively on data collected from summative focus groups.
Erratum to: Truncated cluster algebras and Feynman integrals with algebraic letters
Authors: He Song , Li Zhenjie , Yang Qinglin
Published: May 2022

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP12(2021)110
Bootstrapping large graviton non-Gaussianities
Authors: Cabass Giovanni , Pajer Enrico , Stefanyszyn David , Supeł Jakub
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Gravitational interferometers and cosmological observations of the cosmic microwave background offer us the prospect to probe the laws of gravity in the primordial universe. To study and interpret these datasets we need to know the possible graviton non-Gaussianities. To this end, we derive the most general tree-level three-point functions (bispectra) for a massless graviton to all orders in derivatives, assuming scale invariance. Instead of working with explicit Lagrangians, we take a bootstrap approach and obtain our results using the recently derived constraints from unitarity, locality and the choice of vacuum. Since we make no assumptions about de Sitter boosts, our results capture the phenomenology of large classes of models such as the effective field theory of inflation and solid inflation. We present formulae for the infinite number of parity-even bispectra. Remarkably, for parity-odd bispectra, we show that unitarity allows for only a handful of possible shapes: three for graviton-graviton-graviton, three for scalar-graviton-graviton and one for scalar-scalar-graviton, which we bootstrap explicitly. These parity-odd non-Gaussianities can be large, for example in solid inflation, and therefore constitute a concrete and well-motivated target for future observations.
Organerhalt: Entscheidungskriterien für Patienten mit T3-Larynxkarzinom
Authors: Dyckhoff Gerhard , Warta Rolf , Herold-Mende Christel , Plinkert Peter K. , Ramroth Heribert
Published: May 2022

Hintergrund

Derzeit gilt das größere, nicht mehr durch Teilresektionen behandelbare T3-Larynxkarzinom als optimaler Kandidat für einen Larynxorganerhalt (LP) mittels primärer Radiochemotherapie (pRCT). Wann wäre eine primäre Strahlentherapie (pRT) ggf. auch ohne Chemotherapiezusatz vertretbar, und wann selbst beim T3 doch eher die totale Laryngektomie mit risikoadaptierter adjuvanter Therapie (TL±aR[C]T) zu empfehlen?

Methodik

In der Literatur wurde nach Parametern gesucht, die bei nichtrandomisierten zweiarmigen LP-Studien als Kriterium für den Einschluss in den chirurgischen anstelle des konservativen Arms genannt wurden oder die sich nach konservativer Therapie als signifikante Prognosemarker herausstellen. Hieraus Entwicklung eines Beratungsinstruments für die Therapieentscheidung.

Ergebnisse

Als signifikante Prognosemarker beschrieben wurden das Tumorvolumen, das Vorhandensein und die Art der Stimmbandfixierung, das Ausmaß der Knorpelinfiltration, der N‑Status und die laryngeale Dysfunktion.

Diskussion

Beim T3-Larynxkarzinom scheint eine reine pRT vertretbar zu sein, wenn das Volumen < 3,5 ccm für glottische bzw. < 6 ccm für supraglottische Tumoren beträgt und keine weiteren Risikofaktoren vorliegen. Die pCRT kann als Standard des konservativen LP bei Tumoren mit einem Volumen zwischen 6 ccm und 12 ccm gelten, bei einer Stimmbandfixierung Succo I/II, einer allenfalls minimalen Knorpelinfiltration und einer hohen nodulären Tumorlast. Bei Tumoren mit einem Volumen > 12 ccm, einem Stimmbandfixierungsmuster Succo III/IV, ausgedehnter oder multipler Knorpelinfiltration oder relevanter laryngealer Dysfunktion sollte primär die TL±a[C]RT empfohlen werden.
Distribution of genus among numerical semigroups with fixed Frobenius number
Authors: Singhal Deepesh
Published: May 2022

A numerical semigroup is a sub-monoid of the natural numbers under addition that has a finite complement. The size of its complement is called the genus and the largest number in the complement is called its Frobenius number. We consider the set of numerical semigroups with a fixed Frobenius number f and analyse their genus. We find the asymptotic distribution of genus in this set of numerical semigroups and show that it is a product of a Gaussian and a power series. We show that almost all numerical semigroups with Frobenius number f have genus close to $$\frac{3f}{4}$$

3
f

4

. We denote the number of numerical semigroups of Frobenius number f by N(f). While N(f) is not monotonic we prove that $$N(f)<N(f+2)$$

N
(
f
)
<
N
(
f
+
2
)

for every f.
Late blight resistance genes in potato breeding
Authors: Paluchowska Paulina , Śliwka Jadwiga , Yin Zhimin
Published: May 2022

Main conclusion

Using late blight resistance genes targeting conservative effectors of Phytophthora infestans and the constructing gene pyramids may lead to durable, broad-spectrum resistance, which could be accelerated through genetic engineering.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the most important food crops worldwide. In 2020, potato production was estimated to be more than 359 million tons according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Potato is affected by many pathogens, among which Phytophthora infestans, causing late blight, is of the most economic importance. Crop protection against late blight requires intensive use of fungicides, which has an impact on the environment and humans. Therefore, new potato cultivars have been bred using resistance genes against P. infestans (Rpi genes) that originate from wild relatives of potato. Such programmes were initiated 100 years ago, but the process is complex and long. The development of genetic engineering techniques has enabled the direct transfer of resistance genes from potato wild species to cultivars and easier pyramiding of multiple Rpi genes, which potentially increases the durability and spectrum of potato resistance to rapidly evolving P. infestans strains. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge concerning Rpi genes. We also discuss the use of Rpi genes in breeding as well as their detection in existing potato cultivars. Last, we review new sources of Rpi genes and new methods used to identify them and discuss interactions between P. infestans and host.
PrEP Use in Times of COVID-19 in the Netherlands: Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM) on PrEP Test Less for HIV and Renal Functioning During a COVID-19 Related Lockdown
Authors: Krist Lizette C. , Zimmermann Hanne M. L. , van Dijk Mart , Stutterheim Sarah E. , Jonas Kai J.
Published: May 2022

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, HIV care and prevention efforts have been disrupted. We investigated pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) use and testing behaviors among MSM in the Netherlands, and the factors that influenced testing behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cohort of 766 MSM, established in 2017, was asked in August 2020 to report on their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic via an online survey. Participants (n = 319) reported increased PrEP use and, among PrEP users (n = 211), significantly lower rates of having tested in the last 3 months for HIV and renal functioning compared to before the pandemic. Daily PrEP use and a higher number of sexual partners during the pandemic was significantly associated with continued HIV testing. Continued renal functioning testing was associated with older age. Correcting for pandemic-related disruptions in PrEP use and care will require sustained effort to understand and address missed opportunities.