bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficial effects of monounsaturated fatty acid‐rich blended oils with an appropriate polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio and a low n‐6/n‐3 fatty acid ratio on the health of rats
Authors: Yang Ligang , Yang Chao , Chu Chu , Wan Min , Xu Dengfeng , Pan Da , Xia Hui , Wang Shao Kang , Shu Guofang , Chen Shiqing , Sun Guiju
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

The effects of dietary fat on health are influenced by its fatty acid profile. We aimed to determine the effects of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA)‐rich blended oils (BO) containing a balance of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) and with a low n‐6/n‐3 PUFA ratio on the health of rats fed normal or high‐fat diets. The BO was obtained by mixing red palm oil, rice bran oil (RO), tea seed oil and flaxseed oil in appropriate proportions.

RESULTS

BO consumption reduced the serum low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA), insulin (INS), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐1 (IL‐1), high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), malondialdehyde (MDA), lipid peroxide (LPO) and oxidized LDL (ox‐LDL) concentrations and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR); it increased the high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentrations, and the bone mineral density (BMD) versus control oil‐containing normal and high‐fat diets. BO also reduced the triglyceride (TG), hs‐CRP, MDA, ox‐LDL and reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations; and increased the serum HDL‐C and SOD, and BMD versus RO‐containing high‐fat diets. Finally, BO reduced the glucose (GLU) and INS, and HOMA‐IR; it increased HDL‐C, SOD, femoral weight and BMD versus RO‐containing normal diets.

CONCLUSION

BOs with an appropriate fatty acid profile have beneficial effects on the glucolipid metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress and bone quality of rats when included in both normal and high‐fat diets. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Associations among child abuse history, deployment‐related traumatic events, mental disorders, and suicidal behaviors in Canadian Regular Force personnel
Authors: Taillieu Tamara L. , Sareen Jitender , Afifi Tracie O.
Published: June 2022

Increasing attention has been focused on suicidal behavior among military personnel. Exposure to deployment‐related traumatic events (DRTEs) and child abuse (CA) both have been associated with mental disorders and suicidal behaviors among military personnel. Thus, the primary objectives of this study were to examine (a) sex differences in CA history and DRTEs, past‐year mental disorders, and past‐year suicide‐related outcomes and (b) independent, cumulative, and interactive effects of CA history and DRTEs on past‐year mental disorders and suicide outcomes among Canadian military personnel. Data were from the representative Canadian Forces Mental Health Survey collected in 2013 (N = 8,161; response rate = 79.8%). The results indicated a high prevalence of trauma exposure, with sex differences noted for specific trauma types. Both CA history and DRTEs were strongly associated with mental disorders, CA history: aORs = 1.60–2.44; DRTEs; aORs = 1.67–3.88. Cumulative, but not interactive, effects were noted for the effects of CA history and DRTEs on most mental disorders. Associations between CA history and DRTEs on suicide outcomes were largely indirect via their impact on mental disorders. Information regarding the role of specific types of predeployment trauma on mental disorders and suicidal behavior can be used to develop more targeted prevention and intervention strategies aimed at improving the mental health of military personnel.
One‐Dimensional Helical Nanostructures from the Hierarchical Self‐Assembly of an Achiral “Rod−Coil” Alternating Copolymer
Authors: Zhang Jiacheng , Li Shanlong , Yin Yucheng , Xiang Luoxing , Xu Fugui , Mai Yiyong
Published: June 2022

The self‐assembly of alternating copolymers (ACPs) has attracted considerable interest due to their unique alternating nature. However, compared with block copolymers, their self‐assembly behavior remains much less explored and their reported self‐assembled structures are limited. Here, the formation of supramolecular helical structures by the self‐assembly of an achiral rod−coil alternating copolymer named as poly(quarter(3‐hexylthiophene)‐alt‐poly(ethylene glycol)) (P(Q3HT‐alt‐PEG)), is reported. The copolymer exhibits an interesting hierarchical self‐assembly process, driven by the π−π stacking of the Q3HT segments and the solvophobic interaction of the alkyl chains in tetrahydrofuran (THF)−isopropanol mixed solvents. The copolymer first self‐assembled into thin nanobelts with a uniform size, then grows to helical nanoribbons and eventually twisted into helical nanowires with an average diameter of 25 ± 9 nm and a mean pitch of 80 ± 10 nm. Dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulation supports the formation course of the helical nanowires. Furthermore, the addition of (S)‐ethyl lactate and (R)‐ethyl lactate in the self‐assembly of P(Q3HT‐alt‐PEG) results in the formation of left‐handed and right‐handed chiral nanowires, respectively, demonstrating the tunability of the chirality of the helical wires. This study expands the library of ordered self‐assembled structures of ACPs, and also brings a new strategy and mechanism to construct helical supramolecular structures.
Bound‐state soliton and rogue wave solutions for the sixth‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equation via inverse scattering transform method
Authors: Peng Wei‐Qi , Chen Yong
Published: June 2022

In this work, inverse scattering transform for the sixth‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equation with both zero and nonzero boundary conditions at infinity is given, respectively. For the case of zero boundary conditions, in terms of the Laurent's series and generalization of the residue theorem, the bound‐state soliton is derived. For nonzero boundary conditions, using the robust inverse scattering transform, we present a matrix Riemann–Hilbert problem of the sixth‐order nonlinear Schrödinger equation. Then, based on the obtained Riemann–Hilbert problem, the rogue wave solutions are derived through a modified Darboux transformation. Besides, according to some appropriate parameters choices, several graphical analysis are provided to discuss the dynamical behaviors of the rogue wave solutions and analyze how the higher‐order terms affect the rogue wave.
A novel approach to study catalytic reactions via electrophoretic NMR on the example of Pd/NHC‐catalyzed Mizoroki–Heck cross‐coupling reaction
Authors: Kulikovskaya Natalia S. , Denisova Ekaterina A. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: June 2022

Investigation of catalytic reactions using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is a crucial task, which is often challenging to perform due to rather complex transformations at the metal center. In this work, it was shown that electrophoretic NMR can be a suitable method for studying catalytic reactions and for observing the changes in the catalyst nature. As an important example involving palladium catalysts with N‐heterocyclic carbine ligands (NHCs), the breakage of the Pd‐NHC bond can occur during the catalytic process. Electrophoretic NMR allows the distinction of compounds in the spectra depending on the charge, thus bringing new opportunities to mechanistic studies. Here, we present independent evidence of R‐NHC product formation in the Pd‐catalyzed Mizoroki–Heck reaction—the key process for catalyst change from the molecular to nano‐scale type.
Adipose tissue LECT2 expression is associated with obesity and insulin resistance in Korean women
Authors: Kim Jimin , Lee Seul Ki , Kim Donguk , Lee Eunyoung , Park Chan Yoon , Choe Han , Kang Min‐Ji , Kim Hwa Jung , Kim Jong‐Hyeok , Hong Joon Pio , Lee Yeon Ji , Park Hye Soon , Heo Yoonseok , Jang Yeon Jin
Published: June 2022

Objective

Leukocyte cell‐derived chemotaxin 2 (LECT2) is an obesity‐upregulated hepatokine inducing skeletal muscle insulin resistance. The study's aim was to explore whether LECT2 is expressed in human adipose tissue and whether the expression is dysregulated during obesity and associated with obesity‐related metabolic disorders.

Methods

This study measured metabolic parameters, serum LECT2, and expression of LECT2 and CD209, a gene encoding a putative receptor for LECT2, in abdominal subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissues in women with obesity (with or without type 2 diabetes) and women with normal weight. The expression/secretion of LECT2 and its putative effects were assessed in human adipocytes.

Results

Adipose tissue LECT2 mRNA and serum LECT2 were higher in women with obesity and were significantly correlated with parameters related to insulin resistance. LECT2 was mainly expressed by adipocytes. Both LECT2 and CD209 expression was higher in adipocytes from women with obesity. Incubating adipocytes with substances mimicking the microenvironment of obesity adipose tissue increased LECT2 expression/secretion. LECT2 treatment of adipocytes suppressed insulin‐stimulated Akt phosphorylation; it reduced adiponectin (ADIPOQ) and increased leptin (LEP) expression in a CD209‐dependent manner.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that LECT2 expression in adipose tissue is high in patients with obesity and associated with insulin resistance and suggests that adipocyte‐derived LECT2 may contribute to adipose tissue dysfunction.
Composite for insole shoe assembly based on polyvinyl acetate and polyester fabric waste from the footwear industry
Authors: Conti Tábata Morgana , Catto André Luis , Amico Sandro Campos
Published: June 2022

This work aimed at studying a composite material for shoe assembly insole using polyester fabric waste (PFW) from the footwear industry. For the preparation of the composites, polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) was employed as the polymeric matrix, with 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% in weight of PFW in the formulations and compared with a standard formulation without PFW. The samples were characterized via physical–chemical (moisture content, bulk density, and growth/shrinkage) and mechanical (break, tensile and dry, and wet tear) analyses, and also by scanning electron microscopy. The PVAc/PFW 5% and 10% composites showed satisfactory results in all tests performed. They reached 9.99 and 9.09 MPa tensile strength, respectively, twice the minimum acceptable (5 MPa), and 1.13 and 1.07 N/mm dry tear strength, also higher than required (1.0 N/mm). The better results for the samples with less PFW were justified by the lower tendency to produce agglomerates during the molding and compaction production stages. Compared with commercial materials commonly used in shoes, these samples met all specifications and showed the technical feasibility of reusing PFW in assembly insoles.
Revisiting the ICAPM under the distortion of risk–return tradeoff in short‐horizon stock returns
Authors: Chelikani Surya , Nam Kiseok , Wang Xuewu Wesley
Published: June 2022

We suggest that the distortion of the positive risk–return relation in the ICAPM is a consequence of trading by informed investors to exploit mispricing. We hypothesize and demonstrate that a non‐positive (strongly positive) risk–return relation following positive (negative) market returns is attributed to short‐selling (purchasing) of overpriced (underpriced) stocks along with optimistic (pessimistic) expectations conditional on good (bad) market news. We verify this asymmetry in the risk–return relation through the indirect risk–return relation conditional on good (bad) market news. We also find that the attenuation (reinforcement) of the positive risk–return relation is more profound in high‐ (low‐) sentiment periods.
Transfer learning in high‐dimensional semiparametric graphical models with application to brain connectivity analysis
Authors: He Yong , Li Qiushi , Hu Qinqin , Liu Lei
Published: June 2022

Transfer learning has drawn growing attention with the target of improving statistical efficiency of one study (dataset) by digging up information from similar and related auxiliary studies (datasets). In this article, we consider transfer learning problem in estimating undirected semiparametric graphical model. We propose an algorithm called Trans‐Copula‐CLIME for estimating an undirected graphical model while uncovering information from similar auxiliary studies, characterizing the similarity between the target graph and each auxiliary graph by the sparsity of a divergence matrix. The proposed method relaxes the restrictive Gaussian distribution assumption, which deviates from reality for the fMRI dataset related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) considered here. Nonparametric rank‐based correlation coefficient estimators are utilized in the Trans‐Copula‐CLIME procedure to achieve robustness against normality. We establish the convergence rate of the Trans‐Copula‐CLIME estimator under some mild conditions, which demonstrates that if the similarity between the auxiliary studies and the target study is sufficiently high and the number of informative auxiliary samples is sufficiently large, the Trans‐Copula‐CLIME estimator shows great advantage over the existing non‐transfer‐learning ones. Simulation studies also show that Trans‐Copula‐CLIME estimator has better performance especially when data are not from Gaussian distribution. Finally, the proposed method is applied to infer functional brain connectivity pattern for ADHD patients in the target Beijing site by leveraging the fMRI datasets from some other sites.
Dibenzo‐18‐Crown‐6‐Assisted Inhibition of Cation Migration for Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Sun Xiangnan , Deng Fei , Li Siqi , Li Yao , Lv Xinding , Zheng Yan-Zhen , Tao Xia
Published: June 2022

Formamidinium–cesium (FACs)‐based perovskites are potential light‐absorbing materials for stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs), while long‐term stability deterioration caused by photo‐ and moisture‐induced cation migration and phase separation restrict their further commercial application. Herein, crown ether molecules with both, an electronegative cavity and a negatively charged π bond, dibenzo‐18‐crown‐6 (DB18C6), are introduced to FACsPbI3 films aiming at gaining better capability of inhibiting cation migration benefiting from the crown ether–cation complexation. Meanwhile, 18‐crown‐6 (18C6) with an electronegative cavity‐only is also employed for comparison. By tracing the changes of UV–vis absorption spectra, steady‐state photoluminescence, and Kelvin probe force microscopy of perovskite films under 24 h continuous light soaking, it is observed that the DB18C6‐modified FACsPbI3 film shows remarkably negligible degradation, in comparison with the unmodified and 18C6‐modified FACsPbI3 films. As a result, DB18C6‐modified PSCs with the architecture of ITO/SnO2/FACsPbI3/Spiro‐OMeTAD/Ag achieve an enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) exceeding 20.84%, which is a competitive efficiency for methylammonium‐free pure‐iodine n–i–p PSCs. The resultant unencapsulated DB18C6‐modified devices retain up to 94.73% and 90.18% of their original PCEs even after 500 h continuous full sunlight light soaking and 85 °C heating, respectively. Such crown ether modification provides a pathway on long‐term operational stabilized photovoltaics.
Improved Current Density and Fill Factor of Non‐Fullerene Organic Solar Cells Prepared under Solvent Vapor Atmosphere
Authors: Zhou Xuejiao , Li Xiong , Yan Yujiao , Zhang Fenghua , Zhou Jun , Lin Tao , Zhu Yaohui , Xu Denghui
Published: June 2022

With the continuously increasing power conversion efficiency (PCE) in recent years, organic solar cells (OSCs) have attracted extensive attention as a new clean energy. Further improving PCE is an inevitable requirement for the OSC for commercialization. Herein, PM6: Y6‐based non‐fullerene organic solar cells are prepared by spin‐coating active layer under methanol vapor atmosphere, methanol vapor regulates the active layer morphology and optimizes the molecular arrangement during the active layer film‐forming process, and enriches the acceptor material Y6 on the active layer surface, improving the contact interface between active layer and cathode buffer layer. The improved active layer morphology and interface contact facilitates charge transport and extraction, boosts short‐circuit current density and fill factor, and results in a better PCE of 17.59%, while the PCE of the control device without methanol vapor atmosphere is 16.37%. The results suggest that preparing an active layer under a solvent vapor atmosphere is a simple and efficient method to optimize the active layer morphology and improve the performance of organic solar cells, and this method is convenient to be extended to prepare large‐area and high‐efficiency organic photovoltaic devices.
Span‐to‐depth ratio limits for deflection control of reinforced concrete elements
Authors: Pecić Nenad , Mašović Snežana , Stošić Saša
Published: June 2022

Indirect deflection control usually applies the limitation of the span‐to‐depth ratio. The procedures that have developed in the past decades have mostly been derived for predefined values of some of the relevant parameters. Assigning values to parameters simplifies the application of criteria. Predefined values may not be suitable for all design situations and some of the recently published procedures allow direct selection of relevant parameters. This paper offers new expressions for span‐to‐depth ratio limits for deflection control. Expressions include cross‐section size, area, and position of tensile and compressive reinforcement, mechanical and long‐term properties of concrete and deflection limit. The load level is represented by the stress in the tensile reinforcement so that the ratio of live and total load can be arbitrary. The dimensionless form of deflection calculation by numerical integration of the mean curvature according to Eurocode 2 is used to formulate the expressions. The proposed procedure is verified with a large number of numerical simulations for different combinations of inputs. Measured long‐term deflections, available from the literature, are also used to test the procedure. The expressions are suitable for both deflection control and conceptual design.
Ten‐year long‐term results following HMME‐PDT therapy for port‐wine stain
Authors: Nie Wenjia , Wang Xue , Liu Yan , Tao Juan , Li Yan
Published: June 2022

Background

Hematoporphyrin monomethyl Ether‐mediated photodynamic therapy (HMME‐PDT) is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with port‐wine stain (PWS) and might be an alternative approach for treating PWS. The data of long‐term follow‐up of HMME‐mediated PDT are limited.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the current skin lesions of patients who underwent HMME‐PDT 10 years ago, and to compare the pre and post HMME‐PDT response with that at year 10 after this treatment.

Method

This is a retrospective study of PWS patients treated by HMME‐PDT. HMME‐PDT was carried out by a combination of hematoporphyrin monomethyl ether and 532‐nm continuous wave lasers. Clinical outcomes were graded by clinician‐evaluators based on before and after photographs of the lesion area to the following four‐level scale: no improvement, some improvement, great improvement or nearly complete remission.

Results

There was no obvious recurrence in the completely blanched area. However, the lesions became darkened and thicker in untreated areas. There was no long‐term side effect at the treatment site in all patients.

Conclusion

HMME‐PDT may be considered an effective alternative for the treatment of PWS. Its potential should be emphasized due to the relatively stable results shown in the long term.
Ninjinyoeito reduces β‐amyloid25–35‐induced axon damage via nerve growth factor
Authors: Kubota Kaori , Watanabe Takuya , Katsurabayashi Shutaro , Iwasaki Katsunori
Published: June 2022

Aim

Ninjinyoeito (NYT), a Japanese herbal medicine, is widely used to treat patients with insomnia, anemia, amnesia, and neurosis. Recently, NYT was reported to be clinically effective in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We investigated the effects of NYT in a neurodegeneration model comprising cultured autaptic neurons exposed to β‐amyloid (Aβ)25–35.

Methods

We used an autaptic culture system consisting of a single neuron on astrocyte feeder micro‐islands. The effects of NYT (0.1 mg/ml) on neurotoxicity induced by Aβ25–35(1 μmol/L) were assessed by immunocytochemical assays and Sholl analysis of microtubule‐associated protein 2 (MAP2)‐positive and tau‐positive neurites. Nerve growth factor (Ngf) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) gene expression were examined in primary cocultured astrocytes and neurons using reverse transcription polychromatic chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

Aβ25–35treatment attenuated the arborization of axons and dendrites of single autaptic hippocampal neurons in a concentration‐dependent manner. NYT treatment for three days ameliorated the Aβ25–35‐induced impairment of tau‐positive axon outgrowth. However, NYT did not ameliorate the Aβ25–35‐induced suppression of MAP2‐positive dendrite arborization. NYT increased the expression ofNgfbut notBdnfin Aβ25–35‐exposed primary cocultured astrocytes and neurons.

Conclusion

We propose a new model of neurodegeneration in which dendrite and axon outgrowth in autaptic neuronal cultures is inhibited by Aβ25–35. Our results indicate that NYT protects against Aβ25–35‐induced neuronal injury through induction of nerve growth factor expression. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for treating AD with NYT.
Review of the Economic Impact of Water Availability on Food Security and the Related Ecosystems
Authors: Raviv Orna , Palatnik Ruslana Rachel , Shechter Mordechai
Published: June 2022

Population growth, climate change, and technological development alter the concepts of water supply and demand, affecting both food security and ecosystem services. Groundwater withdrawal, seawater desalination, and wastewater treatment increase the water supply in water-stressed countries, while impacting marine, terrestrial, and croplands’ ecosystems and altering the prices of water and food. About 80% of the world’s wastewater is discharged untreated into biodiversity-rich freshwater and seawater, which is then being used to irrigate croplands and provide desalinated drinking water. Computable general equilibrium (CGE) and partial equilibrium (PE) are economic modeling approaches that aim to capture the multiple effects of the water–energy–food–ecosystem (WEFE) nexus on social welfare. In order to evaluate the combined effect of different types of parameters, the result of one or many PE models are fitted and feeding the CGE model. The aim of this chapter was to review recent work in assessing the impact of water quality and availability on food security and the related ecosystems. The review covers not only global aspects, but also considerations specific to the Mediterranean Sea basin, reviewing the methods to measure and quantify the potential change and the alternatives to manage it. The chapter provides a synthesis of key developments in the literature, identifies methodological gaps, and suggests research approach and policy solutions.
Erratum to: More on the flavor dependence of mϱ/fπ
Authors: Kotov Andrey Yu. , Nogradi Daniel , Szabo Kalman K. , Szikszai Lorinc
Published: June 2022

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/JHEP07(2021)202
Fast harmonic tetrahedral mesh optimization
Authors: Ströter D. , Mueller-Roemer J. S. , Weber D. , Fellner D. W.
Published: June 2022

Mesh optimization is essential to enable sufficient element quality for numerical methods such as the finite element method (FEM). Depending on the required accuracy and geometric detail, a mesh with many elements is necessary to resolve small-scale details. Sequential optimization of large meshes often imposes long run times. This is especially an issue for Delaunay-based methods. Recently, the notion of harmonic triangulations [1] was evaluated for tetrahedral meshes, revealing significantly faster run times than competing Delaunay-based methods. A crucial aspect for efficiency and high element quality is boundary treatment. We investigate directional derivatives for boundary treatment and massively parallel GPUs for mesh optimization. Parallel flipping achieves compelling speedups by up to$$318\times $$318×. We accelerate harmonic mesh optimization by$$119\times $$119×for boundary preservation and$$78\times $$78×for moving every boundary vertex, while producing superior mesh quality.
German Cardiac Arrest Registry: rationale and design of G-CAR
Authors: Pöss Janine , Sinning Christoph , Schreiner Isabelle , Apfelbacher Christian , Drewitz Karl-Philipp , Hösler Nadine , Schneider Steffen , Pieske Burkert , Böttiger Bernd W. , Ewen Sebastian , Wienbergen Harm , Kelm Malte , Bock Daniel , Graf Tobias , Adler Christoph , Dutzmann Jochen , Knie Wulf , Orban Martin , Zeymer Uwe , Michels Guido , Thiele Holger ,   the G-CAR Investigators
Published: June 2022

Background

In Germany, 70,000–100,000 persons per year suffer from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Despite medical progress, survival rates with good neurological outcome remain low. For many important clinical issues, no or only insufficient evidence from randomised trials is available. Therefore, a systemic and standardised acquisition of the treatment course and of the outcome of OHCA patients is warranted.

Study design

The German Cardiac Arrest Registry (G-CAR) is an observational, prospective, multicentre registry. It will determine the characteristics, initial treatment strategies, invasive procedures, revascularisation therapies and the use of mechanical circulatory support devices with a focus on extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. A special feature is the prospective 12-month follow-up evaluating mortality, neurological outcomes and several patient-reported outcomes in the psychosocial domain (health-related quality of life, cognitive impairment, depression/anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and social reintegration). In a pilot phase of 24 months, 15 centres will include approximately 400 consecutive OHCA patients ≥ 18 years. Parallel to and after the pilot phase, scaling up of G-CAR to a national level is envisaged.

Conclusion

G-CAR is the first national registry including a long-term follow-up for adult OHCA patients. Primary aim is a better understanding of the determinants of acute and long-term outcomes with the perspective of an optimised treatment.

Trial registry

NCT05142124.

Graphical abstract

German Cardiac Arrest Registry (G-CAR)
Regorafenib for recurrent high-grade glioma: a unicentric retrospective analysis of feasibility, efficacy, and toxicity
Authors: Treiber Hannes , von der Brelie Christian , Malinova Vesna , Mielke Dorothee , Rohde Veit , Chapuy Claudia Ilse
Published: June 2022

We describe here 11 consecutive patients with recurrence of high-grade glioma treated with regorafenib at our university medical center. The majority of patients had MGMT promoter methylation (9/11 cases). Regorafenib was given as 2nd line systemic treatment in 6/11 patients and 3rd or higher line treatment in 5/11 patients. The median number of applied cycles was 2 with dosage reductions in 5/11. Response to treatment was observed in 4/11 (PR in 1/11, and SD in 3/11). Median overall survival for the cohort was 16.1 months, median progression-free survival 9.0 months, and median time to treatment failure 3.3 months. Side effects of any CTCAE grade were noted in all patients, hereby 6/11 with CTCAE °III-IV reactions. High-grade side effects were of dermatologic, cardiovascular, and hematologic nature. A mean treatment delay of 57.5 days (range 23–119) was noted between tumor board recommendation and treatment initiation due to the application process for off-label use in this indication. In conclusion, treatment with regorafenib in relapsed high-grade glioma is a feasible treatment option but has to be considered carefully due to the significant side effect profile.
Adaptation to DNA Damage, an Asymptotic Approach for a Cooperative Non-local System
Authors: Léculier Alexis , Roux Pierre
Published: June 2022

Following previous works about integro-differential equations of parabolic type modelling the Darwinian evolution of a population, we study a two-population system in the cooperative case. First, we provide a theoretical study of the limit of rare mutations and we prove that the limit is described by a constrained Hamilton-Jacobi equation. This equation is given by an eigenvalue of a matrix which accounts for the diffusion parameters and the coefficients of the system. Then, we focus on a particular application: the understanding of a phenomenon called Adaptation to DNA damage. In this framework, we provide several numerical simulations to illustrate our theoretical results and investigate mathematical and biological questions.
Artificial intelligence and blockchain implementation in supply chains: a pathway to sustainability and data monetisation?
Authors: Tsolakis Naoum , Schumacher Roman , Dora Manoj , Kumar Mukesh
Published: June 2022

Digitalisation is expected to transform end-to-end supply chain operations by leveraging the technical capabilities of advanced technology applications. Notwithstanding the operations-wise merits associated with the implementation of digital technologies, individually, their combined effect has been overlooked owing to limited real-world evidence. In this regard, this research explores the joint implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain Technology (BCT) in supply chains for extending operations performance boundaries and fostering sustainable development and data monetisation. Specifically, this study empirically studied the tuna fish supply chain in Thailand to identify respective end-to-end operations, observe material and data-handling processes, and envision the implementation of AI and BCT. Therefore, we first mapped the business processes and the system-level interactions to understand the governing material, data, and information flows that could be facilitated through the combined implementation of AI and BCT in the respective supply chain. The mapping results illustrate the central role of AI and BCT in digital supply chains’ management, while the associated sustainability and data monetisation impact depends on the parameters and objectives set by the involved system stakeholders. Afterwards, we proposed a unified framework that captures the key data elements that need to be digitally handled in AI and BCT enabled food supply chains for driving value delivery. Overall, the empirically-driven modelling approach is anticipated to support academics and practitioners’ decision-making in studying and introducing digital interventions toward sustainability and data monetisation.
Optimization of reagent consumption in TEMPO-mediated oxidation of Eucalyptus cellulose to obtain cellulose nanofibers
Authors: Xu Hongyu , Sanchez-Salvador Jose Luis , Balea Ana , Blanco Angeles , Negro Carlos
Published: June 2022

Eucalyptus cellulose is usually pre-treated by oxidation with 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO), NaBr and NaClO at pH 10.5 and 25 °C before the mechanical process required to obtain cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). In this study, different aspects to improve the effectiveness and sustainability of the TEMPO-mediated oxidation are analyzed. The optimization was carried out at different reaction times by modifying both the concentration of the NaClO and the amount of the catalysts (TEMPO and NaBr). Results show that the carboxyl groups increased up to 1.1 mmol/g with 5 mmol NaClO/g after 50 min, and that the catalyst concentration can be reduced to 0.025 mmol TEMPO/g and 0.5 mmol NaBr/g to minimize costs while maintaining the high fibrillation degree of the CNFs. The kinetic of the reaction can be considered as zero-order with respect to NaClO, and as first order with respect to cellulose. As a result of this work, the catalyst doses are reduced up to 75% compared to the most widely used catalyst doses (0.1 mmol/g TEMPO and 1 mmol/g NaBr), obtaining highly fibrillated CNFs with a lower environmental impact. This reduction of catalyst doses will reduce the costs and facilitate the implementation of CNF production at industrial scale.

Graphical abstract
A comprehensive analysis of the microbiota composition and host driver gene mutations in colorectal cancer
Authors: Yuan Danping , Tao Yong , Wang Haoyi , Wang Jiawei , Cao Yuepeng , Cao Wen , Pan Shou , Yu Zhaonan
Published: June 2022

Studies of both, microbiota and target therapy associated with gene mutations in colorectal cancer, (CRC) have attracted increasing attention. However, only a few of them analyzed the combined effects on CRC. we analyzed differences in intestinal microbiota of 44 colorectal cancer patients and 20 healthy controls (HC) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing of fecal samples. For 39 of the CRC patients, targeted Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) was carried out at formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples to identify somatic mutation profiles. Compared to the HC group, the microbial diversity of CRC patients was significantly lower. In the CRC group, we found a microbiome that was significantly enriched for strains of Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, and Megasphaera whereas in the HC group the abundance of Collinsella, Faecalibacterium, and Agathobacter strains was higher. Among the mutations detected in the CRC group, the APC gene had the highest mutation rate (77%, 30/39). We found that the KRAS mutant type was closely associated with Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, Megamonas, Lachnoclostridium, and Harryflintia. Notably, Spearman correlation analysis showed that KRAS mutations were negatively correlated with the existence of Bifidobacterium and positively correlated with Faecalibacterium. By employing 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we identified more unique features of microbiota profiles in CRC patients. For the first time, our study showed that gene mutations could directly be linked to the microbiota composition of CRC patients. We hypothesize that the effect of a targeted colorectal cancer therapy is also closely related to the colorectal flora, however, this requires further investigation.
Biological Individuality and the Foetus Problem
Authors: Morgan William
Published: June 2022

The Problem of Biological Individuality is the problem of how to count organisms. Whilst counting organisms may seem easy, the biological world is full of difficult cases such as colonial siphonophores and aspen tree groves. One of the main solutions to the Problem of Biological Individuality is the Physiological Approach. Drawing on an argument made by Eric Olson in the personal identity debate, I argue that the Physiological Approach faces a metaphysical problem - the ‘Foetus Problem’. This paper illustrates how metaphysics can contribute to debates about organisms in the philosophy of biology.
Predation impacts brain allometry in female guppies (Poecilia reticulata)
Authors: Vega-Trejo Regina , Vila-Pouca Catarina , Mitchell David J , Kotrschal Alexander
Published: June 2022

Cognitive and sensory abilities are vital in affecting survival under predation risk, leading to selection on brain anatomy. However, how exactly predation and brain evolution are linked has not yet been resolved, as current empirical evidence is inconclusive. This may be due to predation pressure having different effects across life stages and/or due to confounding factors in ecological comparisons of predation pressure. Here, we used adult guppies (Poecilia reticulata) to experimentally test how direct predation during adulthood would impact the relative brain size and brain anatomy of surviving individuals to examine if predators selectively remove individuals with specific brain morphology. To this end, we compared fish surviving predation to control fish, which were exposed to visual and olfactory predator cues but could not be predated on. We found that predation impacted the relative size of female brains. However, this effect was dependent on body size, as larger female survivors showed relatively larger brains, while smaller survivors showed relatively smaller brains when compared to control females. We found no differences in male relative brain size between survivors and controls, nor for any specific relative brain region sizes for either sex. Our results corroborate the important, yet complex, role of predation as an important driver of variation in brain size.
On the symmetries of Siklos spacetimes
Authors: Calvaruso Giovanni , Kaflou Mahdieh , Zaeim Amirhesam
Published: June 2022

We consider the large class of Siklos spacetimes and investigate their relevant symmetries (homothetic and affine vector fields, Ricci, curvature, Weyl and matter collineations). We prove some general results and obtain complete classifications for homogeneous Siklos spacetimes.
Ti Ions Induce IL-1β Release by Activation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome in a Human Macrophage Cell Line
Authors: Pettersson Mattias , Almlin Sanna , Romanos Georgios E. , Johansson Anders
Published: June 2022

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether titanium (Ti)-induced release of interleukin (IL)-1β acts through the assembly of the NACHT, LRR, and PYD domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. In addition, we examined whether particulate Ti or TiO2 activates the same intracellular pathways with the assembly of the NLRP3 inflammasome as Ti ions. Ti ions are known to induce IL-1β maturation and release by the formation of metal–protein aggregates. Wild-type THP-1 (wt.) cells and NLRP3− and ASC− (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing caspase recruitment domain (CARD)) knockdown cells were used in the experimental analyses. Macro- and nanoparticles (NPs) of both Ti and TiO2 were used as test agents. IL-1β release as a biomarker for inflammasome activation and cell viability was also analyzed. Periodate-oxidized adenosine triphosphate (oATP) was used to attenuate downstream signaling in NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Cellular uptake of Ti was examined using transmission electron microscopy. Cells exposed to the Ti-ion solution showed a dose-dependent increase in the release of IL-1β; conversely, exposure to particulate Ti did not result in increased IL-1β release. Cell viability was not affected by particulate Ti. Knockdown cells exposed to Ti showed a statistically significant reduction in the release of IL-1β compared with wt. cells (p < 0.001). Cellular uptake was detected in all Ti mixtures, and aggregates with various structures were observed. Ti ion–induced release of bioactive IL-1β in THP-1 cells involves the assembly of the NLRP3 inflammasome.
A novel smartphone app for blood pressure measurement: a proof-of-concept study against an arterial catheter
Authors: Hofmann G. , Proença M. , Degott J. , Bonnier G. , Lemkaddem A. , Lemay M. , Schorer R. , Christen U. , Knebel J.-F. , Schoettker P.
Published: June 2022

Smartphones may provide a highly available access to simplified hypertension screening in environments with limited health care resources. Most studies involving smartphone blood pressure (BP) apps have focused on validation in static conditions without taking into account intraindividual BP variations. We report here the first experimental evidence of smartphone-derived BP estimation compared to an arterial catheter in a highly dynamic context such as induction of general anesthesia. We tested a smartphone app (OptiBP) on 121 patients requiring general anesthesia and invasive BP monitoring. For each patient, ten 1-min segments aligned in time with ten smartphone recordings were extracted from the continuous invasive BP. A total of 1152 recordings from 119 patients were analyzed. After exclusion of 2 subjects and rejection of 565 recordings due to BP estimation not generated by the app, we retained 565 recordings from 109 patients (acceptance rate 51.1%). Concordance rate (CR) and angular CR demonstrated values of more than 90% for systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP) and mean (MBP) BP. Error grid analysis showed that 98% of measurement pairs were in no- or low-risk zones for SBP and MBP, of which more than 89% in the no-risk zone. Evaluation of accuracy and precision [bias ± standard deviation (95% limits of agreement)] between the app and the invasive BP was 0.0 ± 7.5 mmHg [− 14.9, 14.8], 0.1 ± 2.9 mmHg [− 5.5, 5.7], and 0.1 ± 4.2 mmHg [− 8.3, 8.4] for SBP, DBP and MBP respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a smartphone app was compared to an invasive BP reference. Its trending ability was investigated in highly dynamic conditions, demonstrating high concordance and accuracy. Our study could lead the way for mobile devices to leverage the measurement of BP and management of hypertension.
On maximum-sum matchings of points
Authors: Bereg Sergey , Chacón-Rivera Oscar P. , Flores-Peñaloza David , Huemer Clemens , Pérez-Lantero Pablo , Seara Carlos
Published: June 2022

Huemer et al. (Discrete Mathematics, 2019) proved that for any two point sets R and B with $$|R|=|B|$$

|
R
|
=
|
B
|

, the perfect matching that matches points of R with points of B, and maximizes the total squared Euclidean distance of the matched pairs, has the property that all the disks induced by the matching have a common point. Each pair of matched points $$p\in R$$

p
∈
R

and $$q\in B$$

q
∈
B

induces the disk of smallest diameter that covers p and q. Following this research line, in this paper we consider the perfect matching that maximizes the total Euclidean distance. First, we prove that this new matching for R and B does not always ensure the common intersection property of the disks. Second, we extend the study of this new matching for sets of 2n uncolored points in the plane, where a matching is just a partition of the points into n pairs. As the main result, we prove that in this case all disks of the matching do have a common point.
Flame retardancy of PET foams manufactured from bottle waste
Authors: Bocz Katalin , Ronkay Ferenc , Vadas Dániel , Molnár Béla , Gere Dániel , Czigány Tibor , Marosi György
Published: June 2022

Supercritical CO2-assisted extrusion technique was used to produce flame retarded foams from recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (rPET). Synergistic combination of aluminium-alkylphosphinate flame retardant (FR) and natural montmorillonite (MMT) was utilised to provide adequate flame retardancy at moderate loadings, i.e. with less than 9% of additives. Addition of FR was found to increase the rate of degradation during production (compounding and foam extrusion), which was effectively compensated by chain extender (CE) addition that ensured the melt strength required to obtain proper foam structure. The effects of the FR content and the CE addition on the viscosity of the rPET compounds and on the morphological, thermal, flammability and mechanical properties of the foam products were comprehensively investigated. When compared to injection moulded bulk materials of identical compositions, the highly porous structure of foams was found to increase flammability according to UL94 tests and LOI measurements but has not been shown to be detrimental to heat release rates as measured by cone calorimetry. It was concluded that with well-balanced composition, i.e. 8% FR + 1% MMT + 1% CE, low-density foams (with porosities higher than 70%) of uniform microcellular structure and prominent flame retardant characteristics (such as V0 rating according to UL94 standard, LOI of 28.5% and by 50% reduced peak of heat release rate and by 30% reduced total heat emission) can be manufactured even from rPET.
A mechanism explaining the metamorphoses of KAM islands in nonhyperbolic chaotic scattering
Authors: Nieto Alexandre R. , Seoane Jesús M. , Barrio Roberto , Sanjuán Miguel A. F.
Published: June 2022

In the context of nonhyperbolic chaotic scattering, it has been shown that the evolution of the KAM islands exhibits four abrupt metamorphoses that strongly affect the predictability of Hamiltonian systems. It has been suggested that these metamorphoses are related to significant changes in the structure of the KAM islands. However, previous research has not provided an explanation of the mechanisms underlying the metamorphoses. Here, we show that they occur due to the formation of a homoclinic or heteroclinic tangle that breaks the internal structure of the main KAM island. We obtain similar qualitative results in a two-dimensional Hamiltonian system and a two-dimensional area-preserving map. The equivalence of the results obtained in both systems suggests that the same four metamorphoses play an important role in conservative systems.
The MOBIS dataset: a large GPS dataset of mobility behaviour in Switzerland
Authors: Molloy Joseph , Castro Alberto , Götschi Thomas , Schoeman Beaumont , Tchervenkov Christopher , Tomic Uros , Hintermann Beat , Axhausen Kay W.
Published: June 2022

This article presents the MOBIS dataset and underlying survey methods used in its collection. The MOBIS study was a nation-wide randomised controlled trial (RCT) of transport pricing in Switzerland, utilising a combination of postal recruitment, online surveys, and GPS tracking. 21,571 persons completed the first online survey, and 3680 persons completed 8 weeks of GPS tracking. Many continued tracking for over a year after the study was completed. In the field experiment, participants participated through the use of a GPS tracking app, Catch-my-Day, which logged their daily travel on different transport modes and imputed the trip segments and modes. The experiment lasted 8 weeks, bookended by two online surveys. After the first 4-week control phase, participants were split into two different treatment groups and a continued control group. An analysis of the survey participation shows that the technology is capable of supporting such an experiment on both Android and iOS, the two main mobile platforms. Significant differences in the engagement and attrition were observed between iOS and Android participants over the 8-week period. Finally, the attrition rate did not vary between treatment groups. This paper also reports on the wealth of data that are being made available for further research, which includes over 3 million trip stages and activities, labelled with transport mode and purpose respectively.
Meet, beat, and pollute
Authors: Thomas Jake , Yao Wentao , Zhang Frank , Zhu Wei
Published: June 2022

We investigate two related questions about the trade-off between the short-term pressures on managers to meet earnings targets and the long-term environmental benefits of reduced pollution. Do firms release more toxins by cutting back on pollution abatement costs to boost earnings in years they meet earnings benchmarks? If so, is that relation weaker for firms with higher environmental ratings? Using Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) data on toxic emissions, we find that U.S. firms pollute more when they meet or just beat consensus earnings per share (EPS) forecasts, suggesting that meeting expectations is a more important goal than reducing pollution. We find this relation is stronger, not weaker, for firms with higher environmental ratings: they increase pollution even more when meeting earnings benchmarks than firms with lower ratings. This suggests that highly rated firms build regulatory and reputational slack over time and use it when needed to soften the negative impact of increased pollution. We contribute to the real earnings management and environmental economics literatures by documenting a negative externality of financial reporting incentives on the environment and society. We also contribute to the corporate sustainability literature by showing that an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) focus does not curb managerial short-termism.