bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KEGG mapping tools for uncovering hidden features in biological data
Authors: Kanehisa Minoru , Sato Yoko , Kawashima Masayuki
Published: August 2021

In contrast to artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches, KEGG (https://www.kegg.jp) has relied on human intelligence to develop “models” of biological systems, especially in the form of KEGG pathway maps that are manually created by capturing knowledge from published literature. The KEGG models can then be used in biological big data analysis, for example, for uncovering systemic functions of an organism hidden in its genome sequence through the simple procedure of KEGG mapping. Here we present an updated version of KEGG Mapper, a suite of KEGG mapping tools reported previously (Kanehisa and Sato, Protein Sci 2020; 29:28–35), together with the new versions of the KEGG pathway map viewer and the BRITE hierarchy viewer. Significant enhancements have been made for BRITE mapping, where the mapping result can be examined by manipulation of hierarchical trees, such as pruning and zooming. The tree manipulation feature has also been implemented in the taxonomy mapping tool for linking KO (KEGG Orthology) groups and modules to phenotypes.
Construction of g‐C3N4‐Ferrocene Copolymers for Enhanced Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Shang Tongtong , Chen Shanshan , Wei Zihan , Huang Dongling , Yang Shun
Published: August 2021

To enhance the photocatalytic property of graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4), a novel g‐C3N4‐Ferrocene copolymers (CNFe) was synthesized via one‐pot thermal polymerization using 1,1‐dibromoferrocene and urea as precursors. Owing to the unique sandwich structure and properties of ferrocene, the specific surface area, visible light absorbance as well as charge carrier separation of CNFe have been simultaneous remarkably enhanced, thus, resulting into a higher photocatalytic activity than pure g‐C3N4. Benefiting from these structural and compositional features, CNFe exhibited excellent photocatalytic activity for photodegradation of phenol as water pollutants under visible light irradiation with outstanding reusability over five cycles. This current work presents a new insight for constructing polymeric photocatalysts which could be possibly applied in the field of photocatalytic pollution removal for environmental protection.
Heterojunction of WO3 Particle and g‐C3N4 Nanowire for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Li Jinlun , Bai Xin , Rao Xi , Zhang Yongping
Published: August 2021

Heterojunction construction with suitable band level alignment and nanostructure formation are the effective ways to improve the photocatalytic activity. Herein, WO3/g‐C3N4 nanocomposites are synthesized by calcining the mixture of WO3 particles and g‐C3N4 nanowires at nitrogen atmosphere at 550 °C for 2 h. The composite catalysts can effectively inhibit the combination of photogenerated electron/hole pairs, promote the harvest of visible light, and increase the specific surface area, thus enhancing the photocatalytic activity of H2 evolution. The optimal photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 0.10WO‐CN composite under visible light (λ>420 nm) reaches 21.64 μmol/h, which is about 7.5 times of the pure phase CN (2.86 μmol/h). Due to the synergistic effect between the interface of WO3 particles and g‐C3N4 nanowires, the photocatalytic performance of WO3/g‐C3N4 composites has been improved significantly.
Cesium Lead Bromide Perovskite Nanocrystals as a Simple and Portable Spectrochemical Probe for Rapid Detection of Chlorides
Authors: Vasavi Dutt V. G. , Akhil Syed , Mishra Nimai
Published: August 2021

The wide spectral tunability of CsPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) via instantaneous and facile anion exchange, make them a suitable candidate for chloride detection. Rapid anion‐exchange processes between CsPbBr3 perovskite NCs and different chloride solutions were carried out in ambient conditions. The resultant anion‐exchanged CsPbCl3‐xBrx NCs preserved the structural properties and exhibited a remarkable blue‐shift in photoluminescence spectra. This form a basis for detection of chloride ions in water. This has been applied with the limit of detection upto 100 μM. The detection strategies were not only limited to the direct addition of chloride solutions to NCs, but also showed a visual colour change under UV light when the chloride solution is drop‐casted on CsPbBr3 films that are deposited on glass substrates. Furthermore, the detection strategy is established by drop‐casting CsPbBr3 NCs onto paper strips that are pre‐soaked in chloride solutions. A considerable blue‐shift in fluorimetry proves them to be an excellent sensing medium as practical spectrochemical probes for on‐site detection of chlorides. Based on this, a colour chart and selectivity chart to access the presence of chlorides and their concentration is demonstrated here.
Optical and electrical modulation in ultraviolet photodetectors based on organic one‐dimensional photochromic arrays
Authors: Geng Yue , Zhao Yingjie , Zhao Jinjin , Zhai Yu , Yuan Meng , Wang Xue‐Dong , Gao Hanfei , Feng Jiangang , Wu Yuchen , Jiang Lei
Published: August 2021

Organic photochromic materials have drawn considerable attention for their potential applications in large‐scale and low‐cost optoelectronics owing to unique tunable physicochemical properties. For organic photodetectors, photochromic materials have realized optical and electrical engineering of semiconductor layers, which incorporate not only tunable performance, but also functionalities to optoelectronic devices. However, the essential challenge is to assemble large‐area photochromic micro‐ and nanostructure arrays with controllable geometry and precise alignment, which restricts the integration of multifunctional optoelectronic devices. Herein, we fabricate organic photochromic one‐dimensional (1D) arrays via a feasible solution process through the confined crystallization of organic molecules. By modulating and controlling the photoisomerization behaviors, these 1D photochromic arrays possess broad spectral tunability, which ensure tunable photoresponse. Furthermore, we investigate the crystallographic transition and electronic performance variation of these 1D photochromic arrays. By adjusting the dwell time of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, the UV photochromic photodetectors realize tunable and repeatable responsivity from 85.6 to 0.709 mA/W. Our work provides new possibilities for optical and electrical engineering of photochromic microwires towards the integration of multifunctional optoelectronic devices.
Dendrites‐Free Zn Metal Anodes Enabled by an Artificial Protective Layer Filled with 2D Anionic Nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhu Ming , Wang Guanyao , Du Fei‐Hu , Yu Fangfang , Wu Kuan , Wu Minghong , Dou Shi‐Xue , Liu Hua‐Kun , Wu Chao
Published: August 2021

Metallic zinc (Zn) has been considered to be an ideal anode material for aqueous batteries, but is impeded by the growth of Zn dendrites and its side reactions with an aqueous electrolyte. Here, it is reported that an artificial protective layer filled with novel 2D Zn2+ adsorbed Sb3P2O143− (denoted as Zn‐Sb3P2O14) nanosheets provide an effective route to mitigate the above challenging problems. The Zn‐Sb3P2O14 protection layer not only avoids the direct contact with the aqueous electrolyte to suppress the side reactions but also allows for Zn‐ions to pass through the protection layer rapidly. Moreover, the 2D Sb3P2O143− skeleton with negative charge also confines the 2D diffusion of Zn‐ion along the lateral surface of Zn anode, resulting in a uniform electron‐deposition. This unique protection layer not only enables dendrite‐free Zn plating/stripping with an average Coulombic efficiency of 99.2% for 200 cycles, but also sustains the symmetric Zn||Zn cell over 1300 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2 as well as for 450 h at 10 mA cm−2 and 10 mAh cm−2. Such advantages bring high reversibility to full Zn batteries with MnO2 cathodes, which deliver a discharge capacity of 111.7 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles.
Limonin ameliorates acute pancreatitis by suppressing JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Xia Tingting , Gu Yijie , Shen Jiaqing , Zheng Lu , Xu Chunfang
Published: August 2021

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is one of the most common acute abdomen of digestive system and has the characteristics of dangerous condition and rapid development. Limonin has been confirmed to hold anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects in various diseases. However, its potential beneficial effect on AP and the concrete mechanisms have never been revealed. Here, two mouse models were used to investigate the protective effects of limonin on AP, the caerulein‐induced mild acute pancreatitis (MAP) model and L‐arginine‐induced severe AP (SAP) model. Firstly, it was found that limonin administration attenuated lipase and serum amylase levels and ameliorated the histopathological manifestations of pancreatic tissue in a dose‐dependent manner. Additionally, the amelioration of AP by limonin was associated with reduced levels of inflammation initiators (IL‐6, IL‐1β, CCL2, and TNF‐α). Mechanistically, we found that limonin suppressed the Janus Activating Kinase 2 (JAK2)/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway, as evident by the decreased levels of JAK2 and p‐STAT3. And activation of JAK2 using JAK2 activator rescued the protective effects of limonin on AP. Thus, our results demonstrate that limonin can ameliorate AP in two mice models via suppressing JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Urban food forests in the American Southwest
Authors: Allen James A , Mason Andrew C
Published: August 2021

Food forests are multilayered polycultures of mostly perennial species and an agroforestry practice well‐suited to the urban environment. They are gaining increasing attention in temperate regions of Europe and the United States, but, to date, there has been little research on them in the American Southwest. In this study, we visited 14 food forests, all but two of which were in urban or peri‐urban areas. At 12 of the food forests, we interviewed a person who established or manages them. The food forests span a significant range of the physical environments, types of communities, and ownerships found in the American Southwest. Despite challenges associated with the southwestern environment, such as the hot, dry climate and difficult soil conditions, we found clear evidence that food forests can be successfully established in the urban areas of this region. In addition to food production, these food forests are providing numerous other benefits such as mitigating the urban heat island effect, increasing local biodiversity, and improving the aesthetics of urban neighborhoods. While there is a need for additional research, a variety of networks and information sources have been established that are providing both practical information and inspiration for the establishment of additional food forests in the region.
The effects of repeating false and misleading information on belief
Authors: Pillai Raunak M. , Fazio Lisa K.
Published: August 2021

False and misleading information is readily accessible in people's environments, oftentimes reaching people repeatedly. This repeated exposure can significantly affect people's beliefs about the world, as has been noted by scholars in political science, communication, and cognitive, developmental, and social psychology. In particular, repetition increases belief in false information, even when the misinformation contradicts prior knowledge. We review work across these disciplines, identifying factors that may heighten, diminish, or have no impact on these adverse effects of repetition on belief. Specifically, we organize our discussion around variations in what information is repeated, to whom the information is repeated, how people interact with this repetition, and how people's beliefs are measured. A key cross‐disciplinary theme is that the most influential factor is how carefully or critically people process the false information. However, several open questions remain when comparing findings across different fields and approaches. We conclude by noting a need for more interdisciplinary work to help resolve these questions, as well as a need for more work in naturalistic settings so that we can better understand and combat the effects of repeated circulation of false and misleading information in society.

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Memory

Psychology > Reasoning and Decision Making
Nanoparticle platforms for dermal antiaging technologies: Insights in cellular and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Bhatia Eshant , Kumari Durga , Sharma Shivam , Ahamad Nadim , Banerjee Rinti
Published: August 2021

Aging is a continuous process defined by a progressive functional decline in physiological parameters. Skin, being one of the most vulnerable organs, shows early signs of aging which are predominantly affected by intrinsic factors like hormone, gender, mood, enzymes, and genetic predisposition, and extrinsic factors like exposure to radiation, air pollution, and heat. Visible morphological and anatomical changes associated with skin aging occur due to underlying physiological aberrations governed by numerous complex interactions at cellular and subcellular levels. Nanoparticles are perceived as a powerful tool in the cosmeceutical industry both for augmenting the efficacy of existing agents and as a novel standalone therapy. Both organic and inorganic nanoparticles have been extensively investigated in antiaging applications. The use of nanoparticles helps to enhance the activity of antiaging molecules by selectively targeting cellular and molecular pathways. On the other hand, the nanoparticle platforms also gained increasing popularity as the skin protectant against extrinsic factors such as UV radiation and pollutants. This review comprehensively discusses skin aging and its mechanism by highlighting the impact on cellular, subcellular, and epigenetic elements. Importantly, the review elaborates on the examples of organic and inorganic nanoparticle‐based formulations developed for antiaging application and provides mechanistic insights on how they modulate the mechanisms of skin aging. The clinical progress of nanoparticle antiaging technologies and factors that impact clinical translation are also explored.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies
Reconfirmation of Solubility of C22− in Liquid Ammonia: Syntheses and Crystal Structures of the Tetrahedral Acetylide Ammoniates [Zn(C2H)4]2−, [Cd(C2H)4]2− and [In(C6H5)3(C2H)] −
Authors: Kaas Marina , Werker Melanie , Korber Nikolaus , Ruschewitz Uwe
Published: August 2021

The new compounds with the sum formulae [Cs([18]crown‐6)]2[Zn(C2H)4] ⋅ 8NH3, Rb3[Rb([18]crown‐6)(NH3)][Cd(C2H)4]2 ⋅ {[18]crown‐6 ⋅ 2NH3} ⋅ NH3 and [Cs([2.2.2]crypt)][In(C6H5)3(C2H)] were synthesized in liquid ammonia. The anionic units show tetrahedrally coordinated central atoms with four hydrogenacetylide ligands or one C2H− and three C6H5− ligands. Solid state starting materials for these ligands were either AC2H (A=Rb, Cs) or Cs2C2. The fact that the indium compound contains a hydrogenacetylide ligand, which was formed from Cs2C2, confirms again the equilibrium of the species C2H2, C2H− and C22− in liquid ammonia and again proves that acetylides slowly dissolve in this medium.
Islands and Page curves in 4d from Type IIB
Authors: Uhlemann Christoph F.
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Variants of the black hole information paradox are studied in Type IIB string theory setups that realize four-dimensional gravity coupled to a bath. The setups are string theory versions of doubly-holographic Karch/Randall brane worlds, with black holes coupled to non-gravitating and gravitating baths. The 10d versions are based on fully backreacted solutions for configurations of D3, D5 and NS5 branes, and admit dual descriptions as $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM on a half space and 3d $$ {T}_{\rho}^{\sigma } $$

T
ρ
σ

[SU(N)] SCFTs. Island contributions to the entanglement entropy of black hole radiation systems are identified through Ryu/Takayanagi surfaces and lead to Page curves. Analogs of the critical angles found in the Karch/Randall models are identified in 10d, as critical parameters in the brane configurations and dual field theories.
A block theoretic proof of Thompson’s $$A\times B$$-lemma
Authors: Kessar Radha , Linckelmann Markus
Published: August 2021

We show that Thompson’s $$A\times B$$

A
×
B

-lemma can be obtained as a consequence of Brauer’s third main theorem.
CD27 expression on Treg cells limits immune responses against tumors
Authors: Muth Sabine , Klaric Annekatrin , Radsak Markus , Schild Hansjörg , Probst Hans Christian
Published: August 2021

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) suppress immune responses and thus contribute to immune homeostasis. On the downside, Tregs also limit immune responses against tumors promoting the progression of cancer. Among the many mechanisms implied in Treg-mediated suppression, the inhibition of dendritic cells (DCs) has been shown to be central in peripheral tolerance induction as well as in cancers. We have shown previously that the maintenance of peripheral T cell tolerance critically depends on cognate interactions between Tregs and DCs and that the CTL priming by unsuppressed steady state DCs is mediated via CD70. Here, we have investigated whether the CD70/CD27 axis is also involved in Treg-mediated suppression of anti-tumor immunity. Using a mixed bone marrow chimeric mouse model in which we can deplete regulatory T cells in a temporally controlled fashion, we show that Treg-expressed CD27 prevents the breakdown of peripheral tolerance and limits anti-tumor immunity. Furthermore, ablation of Treg expressed CD27 acts synergistically with PD-1 checkpoint inhibition to improve CTL mediated immunity against a solid tumor. Our data thus identify Treg-expressed CD27 as a potential target in cancer immunotherapy.

Key messages

Treg expressed CD27 maintains steady state DC tolerogenic

Treg expressed CD27 limits anti-tumor immunity

Ablation of Treg expressed CD27 synergizes with PD-1 blockade to improve CTL mediated tumor control
Radikale pelvine Tumorchirurgie bei Patienten mit einem lokal fortgeschrittenen, symptomatischen kastrationsresistenten Prostatakarzinom
Authors: Kanzelmeyer Saskia , Bludau Mark , Pfister David Johannes Karl Paul , Heidenreich Axel
Published: August 2021

Ziel der Arbeit

Die retrospektive Evaluation der klinischen Ergebnisse nach palliativer pelviner Tumorchirurgie (ppTC) bei subvesikalen und supravesikalen Komplikationen eines lokal symptomatisch fortgeschrittenen kastrationsresistenten (CRPC) Prostatakarzinoms.

Patienten und Methoden

Insgesamt 84 Patienten mit lokal fortgeschrittenem und symptomatischem CRPC erhielten eine radikale Zystoprostatektomie (n = 71, 83,3 %) oder anteriore und posteriore Exenteration (n = 13, 16,7 %). Das lokale Staging erfolgte mittels MRT des Beckens, Zystoskopie und Rektoskopie. Ein systemisches Staging erfolgte mittels Computertomographie von Thorax, Abdomen, Becken sowie Skelettszintigraphie. Die perioperativen Komplikationen wurden nach Clavien-Dindo-Klassifikation evaluiert. Das primäre Studienziel war das symptomfreie Überleben (sÜL, Fehlen von Symptomen am unteren oder oberen Harntrakt, fehlende endoluminale oder perkutane Intervention).

Ergebnisse

Nach einem medianen Follow-up von 43,5 (3–139) Monaten betrug das sÜL nach einem und drei Jahren 95,2 % bzw. 86,7 %. Insgesamt 86,7 % der Patienten blieben für ihre gesamte verbleibende Lebensdauer bezüglich lokaler Symptome beschwerdefrei. Das OS nach einem und drei Jahren betrug 92,9 % bzw. 54,7 %. Clavien-Dindo-Grad-2-, -3- und -4-Komplikationen ergaben sich in 19 (22,6 %), 7 (8,3 %) bzw. 3 (3,6 %) Patienten.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die ppTC ist mit einer geringen Komplikationsrate möglich und führt zu deutlicher Symptomlinderung bei ca. 90 % der Patienten, von denen > 80 % für die verbleibende Lebenszeit beschwerdefrei verbleiben. Voraussetzung sind die Patientenauswahl, ein interdisziplinäres Vorgehen und eine entsprechende chirurgische Expertise.
Laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy versus vaginal hysterectomy and apical suspension: 7-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Izett-Kay Matthew L. , Rahmanou Philip , Cartwright Rufus J. , Price Natalia , Jackson Simon R.
Published: August 2021

Introduction and hypothesis

Laparoscopic mesh sacrohysteropexy offers a uterine-sparing alternative to vaginal hysterectomy with apical suspension, although randomised comparative data are lacking. This study was aimed at comparing the long-term efficacy of laparoscopic mesh sacrohysteropexy and vaginal hysterectomy with apical suspension for the treatment of uterine prolapse.

Methods

A randomised controlled trial comparing laparoscopic mesh sacrohysteropexy and vaginal hysterectomy with apical suspension for the treatment of uterine prolapse was performed, with a minimum follow-up of 7 years. The primary outcome was reoperation for apical prolapse. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported mesh complications, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification, Patient Global Impression of Improvement in prolapse symptoms and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Vaginal Symptoms, Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ-FLUTS) and PISQ-12 questionnaires.

Results

A total of 101 women were randomised and 62 women attended for follow-up at a mean of 100 months postoperatively (range 84–119 months). None reported a mesh-associated complication. The risk of reoperation for apical prolapse was 17.2% following vaginal hysterectomy (VH) and 6.1% following laparoscopic mesh sacrohysteropexy (LSH; relative risk 0.34, 95% CI 0.07–1.68, p = 0.17). Laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy was associated with a statistically significantly higher apical suspension (POP-Q point C −5 vs −4.25, p = 0.02) and longer total vaginal length (9 cm vs 6 cm, p < 0.001). There was no difference in the change in ICIQ-VS scores between the two groups (ICIQ-VS change −22 vs −25, p = 0.59).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy and vaginal hysterectomy with apical suspension have comparable reoperation rates and subjective outcomes. Potential advantages of laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy include a lower risk of apical reoperation, greater apical support and increased total vaginal length.
Tactile spatial discrimination on the torso using vibrotactile and force stimulation
Authors: Jouybari Atena Fadaei , Franza Matteo , Kannape Oliver Alan , Hara Masayuki , Blanke Olaf
Published: August 2021

There is a steadily growing number of mobile communication systems that provide spatially encoded tactile information to the humans’ torso. However, the increased use of such hands-off displays is currently not matched with or supported by systematic perceptual characterization of tactile spatial discrimination on the torso. Furthermore, there are currently no data testing spatial discrimination for dynamic force stimuli applied to the torso. In the present study, we measured tactile point localization (LOC) and tactile direction discrimination (DIR) on the thoracic spine using two unisex torso-worn tactile vests realized with arrays of 3 × 3 vibrotactile or force feedback actuators. We aimed to, first, evaluate and compare the spatial discrimination of vibrotactile and force stimulations on the thoracic spine and, second, to investigate the relationship between the LOC and DIR results across stimulations. Thirty-four healthy participants performed both tasks with both vests. Tactile accuracies for vibrotactile and force stimulations were 60.7% and 54.6% for the LOC task; 71.0% and 67.7% for the DIR task, respectively. Performance correlated positively with both stimulations, although accuracies were higher for the vibrotactile than for the force stimulation across tasks, arguably due to specific properties of vibrotactile stimulations. We observed comparable directional anisotropies in the LOC results for both stimulations; however, anisotropies in the DIR task were only observed with vibrotactile stimulations. We discuss our findings with respect to tactile perception research as well as their implications for the design of high-resolution torso-mounted tactile displays for spatial cueing.
Do initial concentration and activated sludge seasonality affect pharmaceutical biotransformation rate constants?
Authors: van Bergen Tamara J. H. M. , Rios-Miguel Ana B. , Nolte Tom M. , Ragas Ad M. J. , van Zelm Rosalie , Graumans Martien , Scheepers Paul T. J. , Jetten Mike S. M. , Hendriks A. Jan , Welte Cornelia U.
Published: August 2021

Pharmaceuticals find their way to the aquatic environment via wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Biotransformation plays an important role in mitigating environmental risks; however, a mechanistic understanding of involved processes is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential relationships between first-order biotransformation rate constants (kb) of nine pharmaceuticals and initial concentration of the selected compounds, and sampling season of the used activated sludge inocula. Four-day bottle experiments were performed with activated sludge from WWTP Groesbeek (The Netherlands) of two different seasons, summer and winter, spiked with two environmentally relevant concentrations (3 and 30 nM) of pharmaceuticals. Concentrations of the compounds were measured by LC–MS/MS, microbial community composition was assessed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, and kb values were calculated. The biodegradable pharmaceuticals were acetaminophen, metformin, metoprolol, terbutaline, and phenazone (ranked from high to low biotransformation rates). Carbamazepine, diatrizoic acid, diclofenac, and fluoxetine were not converted. Summer and winter inocula did not show significant differences in microbial community composition, but resulted in a slightly different kb for some pharmaceuticals. Likely microbial activity was responsible instead of community composition. In the same inoculum, different kb values were measured, depending on initial concentration. In general, biodegradable compounds had a higher kb when the initial concentration was higher. This demonstrates that Michealis-Menten kinetic theory has shortcomings for some pharmaceuticals at low, environmentally relevant concentrations and that the pharmaceutical concentration should be taken into account when measuring the kb in order to reliably predict the fate of pharmaceuticals in the WWTP.

Key points

• Biotransformation and sorption of pharmaceuticals were assessed in activated sludge.

• Higher initial concentrations resulted in higher biotransformation rate constants for biodegradable pharmaceuticals.

• Summer and winter inocula produced slightly different biotransformation rate constants although microbial community composition did not significantly change.

Graphical abstract
The effect of reproductive state on activity budget, feeding behavior, and urinary C-peptide levels in wild female Assamese macaques
Authors: Touitou Sonia , Heistermann Michael , Schülke Oliver , Ostner Julia
Published: August 2021

The source of maternal energy supporting reproduction (i.e., stored or incoming) is an important factor determining different breeding strategies (capital, income or mixed) in female mammals. Key periods of energy storage and allocation might induce behavioral and physiological shifts in females, and investigating their distribution throughout reproduction helps in determining vulnerable phases shaping female reproductive success. Here, we examined the effects of reproductive state on activity budget, feeding behavior, and urinary C-peptide (uCP) levels, a physiological marker of energy balance, in 43 wild female Assamese macaques (Macaca assamensis). Over a 13-month study period, we collected 96,266 instantaneous records of activity and 905 urine samples. We found that early lactating females and non-gestating–non-lactating females follow an energy-saving strategy consisting of resting more at the expense of feeding and consuming mostly fruits which contributed to enhancing their energy intake and feeding efficiency. We found an opposite pattern in gestating and late lactating females who feed more at the expense of resting and consume mostly seeds, providing a fiber-rich diet. Storing food into cheek pouches increased throughout gestation while it decreased all along with lactation. Lastly, we found the highest uCP levels during late gestation. Our results reflect different feeding adaptations in response to the energetic costs of reproduction and suggest a critical role of fat accumulation before conception and metabolizing fat during gestation and lactation. Overall, our study provides an integrative picture of the energetics of reproduction in a seasonal species and contributes to our understanding of the diversity of behavioral and physiological adaptations shaping female reproductive success.

Significance statement

To offset their substantial energetic investment in reproduction, mammalian females may modify their behavior and the way they extract energy from their environment. In addition, as a result of heightened energy expenditure, female reproduction might trigger physiological shifts. To date, most studies investigated the energetic costs of female reproduction using either a behavioral or a physiological approach. To arrive at a more comprehensive picture, we combined behavioral data with a physiological marker of energy balance, i.e., urinary C-peptide, in a seasonal primate species in its natural habitat. Our results indicate that throughout the reproductive cycle, behavioral and physiological adaptations operate concomitantly, inducing modifications in female activity budget, feeding behavior, and suggesting shifts in fat use. Overall, our results illustrate the relevance of combining data on behavior and hormones to investigate breeding strategies in coping with the energetic costs of reproduction.
Interactive live-stream surgery contributes to surgical education in the context of contact restrictions
Authors: van Bonn Sara M. , Grajek Jan S. , Schneider Armin , Oberhoffner Tobias , Mlynski Robert , Weiss Nora M.
Published: August 2021

Background

Attendance teaching is the predominant teaching method at universities but needs to be questioned in the context of digital transformation. This study establishes and evaluates a method to accomplish electronic learning to supplement traditional attendance courses.

Materials and methods

Surgery was transmitted in real-time conditions via an online live stream from the surgical theater. Visualization was transferred from a fully digital surgical microscope, an endoscope or an environmental camera in high definition quality. Students were able to participate at home from their personal computer. After following the surgery, they participated in an online-evaluation.

Results

A total of 65 students participated in the live stream. The majority of students (61.54%) indicated a significant subjective increase in knowledge after participation. The majority of students (53.85%) indicated that live surgeries should be offered as a permanent component in addition to classroom teaching. Likewise, a broader offer was desired by many students (63.08%).

Conclusions

Live streaming of surgery is a promising approach as an alternative or supplement to traditional attendance teaching. An expansion of digital teaching can be explicitly supported on the basis of this study.
Ethical considerations in gene selection for reproductive carrier screening
Authors: Dive Lisa , Archibald Alison Dalton , Newson Ainsley J.
Published: August 2021

Genetic carrier screening for reproductive purposes has existed for half a century. It was originally offered to particular ethnic groups with a higher prevalence of certain severe recessive or X-linked genetic conditions, or (as carrier testing) to those with a family history of a particular genetic condition. Commercial providers are increasingly offering carrier screening on a user-pays basis. Some countries are also trialing or offering public reproductive genetic carrier screening with whole populations, rather than only to those known to have a higher chance of having a child with an inherited genetic condition. Such programs broaden the ethical and practical challenges that arise in clinical carrier testing. In this paper we consider three aspects of selecting genes for population reproductive genetic carrier screening panels that give rise to important ethical considerations: severity, variable penetrance and expressivity, and scalability; we also draw on three exemplar genes to illustrate the ethical issues raised: CFTR, GALT and SERPINA1. We argue that such issues are important to attend to at the point of gene selection for RGCS. These factors warrant a cautious approach to screening panel design, one that takes into account the likely value of the information generated by screening and the feasibility of implementation in large and diverse populations. Given the highly complex and uncertain nature of some genetic variants, careful consideration needs to be given to the balance between delivering potentially burdensome or harmful information, and providing valuable information to inform reproductive decisions.
Research on coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical dynamic response characteristics of saturated porous deep-sea sediments under vibration of mining vehicle
Authors: Zhu Wei , Shi Xinyu , Huang Rong , Huang Liyue , Ma Wenbo
Published: August 2021

The excessive deformation of deep-sea sediments caused by the vibration of the mining machine will adversely affect the efficiency and safety of mining. Combined with the deep-sea environment, the coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical problem for saturated porous deep-sea sediments subject to the vibration of the mining vehicle is investigated. Based on the Green-Lindsay (G-L) generalized thermoelastic theory and Darcy’s law, the model of thermo-hydro-mechanical dynamic responses for saturated porous deep-sea sediments under the vibration of the mining vehicle is established. We obtain the analytical solutions of non-dimensional vertical displacement, excess pore water pressure, vertical stress, temperature, and change in the volume fraction field with the normal mode analysis method, and depict them graphically. The normal mode analysis method uses the canonical coordinate transformation to solve the equation, which can quickly decouple the equation by ignoring the modal coupling effect on the basis of the canonical mode. The results indicate that the vibration frequency has obvious influence on the vertical displacement, excess pore water pressure, vertical stress, and change in volume fraction field. The loading amplitude has a great effect on the physical quantities in the foundation, and the changes of the physical quantities increase with the increase in loading amplitude.
Origin of friction hysteresis on monolayer graphene
Authors: Zhang Deliang , Zhang Yuge , Li Qiang , Dong Mingdong
Published: August 2021

Load-dependent friction hysteresis is an intriguing phenomenon that occurs in many materials, where the friction measured during unloading is larger than that measured during loading for a given normal load. However, the mechanism underlying this behavior is still not well understood. In this work, temperature-controlled friction force microscopy was utilized to explore the origin of friction hysteresis on exfoliated monolayer graphene. The experimental observations show that environmental adsorbates from ambient air play an important role in the load dependence of friction. Specifically, the existence of environmental adsorbates between the tip and graphene surface gives rise to an enhanced tip-graphene adhesion force, which leads to a positive friction hysteresis where the friction force is larger during unloading than during loading. In contrast to positive friction hysteresis, a negative friction hysteresis where the friction force is smaller during unloading than during loading is observed through the removal of the environmental adsorbates upon in situ annealing. It is proposed that the measured friction hysteresis originates from the hysteresis in the contact area caused by environmental adsorbates between the tip and graphene. These findings provide a revised understanding of the friction hysteresis in monolayer graphene in terms of environmental adsorbates.
Neutrosophic entropy measures for the Weibull distribution: theory and applications
Authors: Sherwani Rehan Ahmad Khan , Arshad Tooba , Albassam Mohammed , Aslam Muhammad , Abbas Shumaila
Published: August 2021

Entropy is a standard measure used to determine the uncertainty, randomness, or chaos of experimental outcomes and is quite popular in statistical distribution theory. Entropy methods available in the literature quantify the information of a random variable with exact numbers and lacks in dealing with the interval value data. An indeterminate state of an experiment generally generates the data in interval form. The indeterminacy property of interval-valued data makes it a neutrosophic form data. This research proposed some modified forms of entropy measures for an important lifetime distribution called Weibull distribution by considering the neutrosophic form of the data. The performance of the proposed methods is assessed via a simulation study and three real-life data applications. The simulation and real-life data examples suggested that the proposed methodologies of entropies for the Weibull distribution are more suitable when the random variable of the distribution is in an interval form and has indeterminacy or vagueness in it.
Hume’s guillotine and intelligent technologies
Authors: Saariluoma Pertti
Published: August 2021

Emerging intelligent society shall change the way people are organised around their work and consequently also as a society. One approach to investigating intelligent systems and their social influence is information processing. Intelligence is information processing. However, factual and ethical information are different. Facts concern true vs. false, while ethics is aboutwhat should be done. David Hume recognised a fundamental problem in this respect, which is that facts can be used to derive values. His answer was negative, which is critical for developing intelligent ethical technologies. Hume’s problem is not crucial when values can be assigned to technologies, i.e. weak ethical artificial intelligence (AI), but it is hard when we speak of strong ethical AI, which should generate values from facts. However, this paper argues that Hume’s aporia is grounded on a mistaken juxtaposition of emotions and cognition. In the human mind, all experiences are based on the cooperation of emotions and cognitions. Therefore, Hume’s guillotine is not a real obstacle, but it is possible to use stronger forms of ethical AI to develop new ethics for intelligent society.
Why macroeconomics needs experimental evidence
Authors: Duffy John
Published: August 2021

This paper discusses how macroeconomics can and already has begun to make use of controlled experimental methods to address the assumptions and predictions of macroeconomic models as well as to evaluate the impacts of macroeconomic policy interventions. Specific issues addressed include rational expectations and alternatives, intertemporal optimization with an application to household consumption and savings decisions and the efficacy of various monetary policies.
Time-resolved secondary triton burnup 14 MeV neutron measurement by a new scintillating fiber detector in middle total neutron emission ranges in deuterium large helical device plasma experiments
Authors: Ogawa K. , Isobe M. , Sangaroon S. , Takada E. , Nakada T. , Murakami S. , Jo J. , Zhong G. Q. , Zhang Yipo , Tamaki S. , Murata I.
Published: August 2021

A middle-sensitivity scintillating fiber detector (hereafter middle Sci-Fi detector) that works at a deuterium-tritium neutron flux of ~105-107 cm−2s−1 was utilized to measure secondary deuterium-tritium neutron emission rates with high temporal resolution at a total neutron emission rate of 1013 to 1015 n/s, where strong magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) instabilities were observed in the large helical device deuterium plasma experiments. The gain and angular characteristics of the middle Sci-Fi detector were evaluated in an accelerator-based deuterium-tritium neutron source in the intense 14 MeV neutron source facility at Osaka University. Observation of 1 MeV triton transport due to MHD instability was performed by a middle Sci-Fi detector whose deuterium-tritium neutron counting rate was approximately 20 times higher than that of the conventional Sci-Fi detector. Fusion-born triton transport due to energetic-particle-driven MHD instability was observed using the middle Sci-Fi detector due to its high detection efficiency and high discrimination ability of deuterium-tritium neutrons from the sea of deuterium-deuterium neutrons.
The Ancient Aesthetics of Deception
Authors: Grethlein Jonas
Published: August 2021

The concept of mimesis has dominated reflection on the nature and role, in Greek literature, of representation. Jonas Grethlein, in his ambitious new book, takes this reflection a step further. He argues that, beyond mimesis, there was an important but unacknowledged strand of reflection focused instead on the nuanced idea of apatē (often translated into English as 'deceit'), oscillating between notions of 'deception' and 'aesthetic illusion'. Many authors from Gorgias and Plato to Philo, Plutarch and Clement of Alexandria used this key concept to entwine aesthetics with ethics. In creatively exploring the various reconfigurations of apatē, and placing these in their socio-historical contexts, the book offers a bold new history of ancient aesthetics. It also explores the present significance of the aesthetics of deception, unlocking the potential of ancient reflection for current debates on the ethical dimension of representation. It will appeal to scholars in classics and literary theory alike.
The Art Collector in Early Modern Italy
Authors: Schmitter Monika
Published: August 2021

Lorenzo Lotto's Portrait of Andrea Odoni is one of the most famous paintings of the Italian Renaissance. Son of an immigrant and a member of the non-noble citizen class, Odoni understood how the power of art could make a name for himself and his family in his adopted homeland. Far from emulating Venetian patricians, however, he set himself apart through the works he collected and the way he displayed them. In this book, Monika Schmitter imaginatively reconstructs Odoni's house – essentially a 'portrait' of Odoni through his surroundings and possessions. Schmitter's detailed analysis of Odoni's life and portrait reveals how sixteenth-century individuals drew on contemporary ideas about spirituality, history, and science to forge their own theories about the power of things and the agency of object. She shows how Lotto's painting served as a meta-commentary on the practice of collecting and on the ability of material things to transform the self.
Molybdenum as a Paleoredox Proxy
Authors: Hlohowskyj Stephan R. , Chappaz Anthony , Dickson Alexander J.
Published: August 2021

Molybdenum (Mo) is a widely used trace metal for investigating redox conditions. However, unanswered questions remain that concentration and bulk isotopic analysis cannot specially answer. Improvements can be made by combining new geochemical techniques to traditional methods of Mo analysis. In this Element, we propose a refinement of Mo geochemistry within aquatic systems, ancient rocks, and modern sediments through molecular geochemistry (systematically combining concentration, isotope ratio, elemental mapping, and speciation analyses). Specifically, to intermediate sulfide concentrations governing Mo behavior below the 'switch-point' and dominant sequestration pathways in low oxygen conditions. The aim of this work is to 1) aid and improve the breadth of Mo paleoproxy interpretations by considering Mo speciation and 2) address outstanding research gaps concerning Mo systematics (cycling, partitioning, sequestration, etc.). The Mo paleoproxy has potential to solve ever complex research questions. By using molecular geochemical recommendations, improved Mo paleoproxy interpretations and reconstruction can be achieved.
Converting an Under-Construction Healthcare Facility into a COVID-19 Screening and Emergency Response Centre During Complete Lockdown in India
Authors: Siddharth Vijaydeep , Kausar Mohammad , Krishna Reddy K Vamsi , Arif T.P. , Sinha Tejprakash , Bhoi Sanjeev , Khanna Puneet , Singhal Maneesh
Published: August 2021

In view of the COVID-19 surge, the construction of the Burns and Plastic Surgery Block at AIIMS, New Delhi was expedited at war footing level and converted into a COVID-19 Emergency response Centre (ERC). Engineering works were completed in a speedy manner and various patient care areas were equipped as deemed necessary for providing tertiary care to COVID-19 patients. A highly spirited team comprising of Emergency Medicine Specialists, Anesthesia and Critical Care specialist, Hospital Administrators and Nursing Officers was formed. Effective segregation of patient care areas into clean, contaminated, and intermediate zones was done using physical barriers and air conditioning modifications. The screening area for patients suspected of having COVID-19 was created in addition to a 2-step process i.e., Triage 1 and Triage 2, thereafter, patients requiring admission would be referred to the emergency area. An in-house designed and fabricated sampling booth was created to bring down the use of PPEs and for better infection control. The ERC has a general ward and state of the art intensive care units. Mobilizing resources (machinery, manpower, consumables etc.) during the lockdown required commitment from top leadership, motivated teams, expeditious procurement, coordination with multiple agencies working on site, expediting statutory clearances, coordination with police services, transportation of labor etc.
Dr Livingstone, I Presume?
Authors: Engel Pascal
Published: August 2021

Presumption is often discussed in law, less often in epistemology. Is it an attitude? If so where can we locate it within the taxonomy of epistemic attitudes? Is it a kind of belief, a judgment, an assumption or a supposition? Or is it a species of inference? There are two basic models of presumption: judgmental, as a kind of judgment, and legal, taken from the use of presumptions in law. The legal model suggests that presumption is a practical inference, whereas the judgmental model suggests that presumption is an epistemic attitude. I argue that presumption is neither a practical inference nor a merely epistemic attitude: it involves both, within the category of what we may call the inquiring attitudes.