bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The differences of poor SRH among municipalities in Iwate after the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Takahashi Shuko , Shimoda Haruki , Sakata Kiyomi , Ogawa Akira , Kobayashi Seiichiro , Kawachi Ichiro
Published: August 2021

The health of communities has been observed to recover at differential rates in the wake of disasters. In the present study, the 5-year trends in poor self-rated health (SRH) in three municipalities of Iwate Prefecture following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami were compared. Annual surveys were conducted from 2011 to 2015 in three municipalities (Otsuchi, Rikuzentakata, and Yamada) that were heavily damaged by the tsunami. We tracked the prevalence of poor SRH in 10,052 participants (mean age, 61.0 years; 39.0% men). Trends in the prevalence of poor SRH were analyzed using generalized linear mixed effect models with control for covariates. Immediately after the disaster (2011), all three municipalities reported similar prevalences of poor SRH (around 15%). Among people under the age of 65 years, there was a gradual improvement in health for residents of Rikuzentakata and Yamada, but the prevalence of poor SRH remained persistently high in Otsuchi. Among people over the age of 65 years, the prevalence of poor SRH remained constant in Rikuzentakata and Yamada but increased over a 5-year follow-up period in Otsuchi. The delayed health recovery in Otsuchi may be due to the characteristics of the local health system. Examination of the variations in health recovery may provide clues about the sources of disaster resilience.
Comprehensive polar metabolomics and lipidomics profiling discriminates the transformed from the non-transformed state in colon tissue and cell lines
Authors: Rombouts Caroline , De Spiegeleer Margot , Van Meulebroek Lieven , Vanhaecke Lynn , De Vos Winnok H.
Published: August 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most lethal disease worldwide. Despite an urgent need for therapeutic advance, selective target identification in a preclinical phase is hampered by molecular and metabolic variations between cellular models. To foster optimal model selection from a translational perspective, we performed untargeted ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry-based polar metabolomics and lipidomics to non-transformed (CCD841-CON and FHC) and transformed (HCT116, HT29, Caco2, SW480 and SW948) colon cell lines as well as tissue samples from ten colorectal cancer patients. This unveiled metabolic signatures discriminating the transformed from the non-transformed state. Metabolites involved in glutaminolysis, tryptophan catabolism, pyrimidine, lipid and carnitine synthesis were elevated in transformed cells and cancerous tissue, whereas those involved in the glycerol-3-phosphate shuttle, urea cycle and redox reactions were lowered. The degree of glutaminolysis and lipid synthesis was specific to the colon cancer cell line at hand. Thus, our study exposed pathways that are specifically associated with the transformation state and revealed differences between colon cancer cell lines that should be considered when targeting cancer-associated pathways.
Misokinesia is a sensitivity to seeing others fidget that is prevalent in the general population
Authors: Jaswal Sumeet M. , De Bleser Andreas K. F. , Handy Todd C.
Published: August 2021

Misokinesia––or the ‘hatred of movements’––is a psychological phenomenon that is defined by a strong negative affective or emotional response to the sight of someone else’s small and repetitive movements, such as seeing someone fidget with a hand or foot. Among those who regularly experience misokinesia sensitivity, there is a growing grass-roots recognition of the challenges that it presents as evidenced by on-line support groups. Yet surprisingly, scientific research on the topic is lacking. This article is novel in systematically examining whether misokinesia sensitivity actually exists in the general population, and if so, whether there is individual variability in the intensity or extent of what sensitivities are reported. Across three studies that included 4100 participants, we confirmed the existence of misokinesia sensitivity in both student and non-student populations, with approximately one-third of our participants self-reporting some degree of sensitivity to seeing the repetitive, fidgeting behaviors of others as encountered in their daily lives. Moreover, individual variability in the range and intensity of sensitivities reported suggest that the negative social-affective impacts associated with misokinesia sensitivities may grow with age. Our findings thus confirm that a large segment of the general population may have a visual-social sensitivity that has received little formal recognition.
Molecular dynamics study on the relationship between phase transition mechanism and loading direction of AZ31
Authors: Yang Qianhua , Xue Chun , Chu Zhibing , Li Yugui , Ma Lifeng , Gao Hong
Published: August 2021

To develop and design mg-based nanoalloys with excellent properties, it is necessary to explore the forming process. In this paper, to explore the effect of different loading directions on the phase transformation of magnesium alloy, the model of AZ31 magnesium alloy was established, the process of Uniaxial Compression (UC) of magnesium alloy in different directions was simulated, the changes of atomic position and phase structure were observed, and the phase transformation mechanism of AZ31 magnesium alloy under uniaxial compression under different loading directions was summarized. The conclusions are as follows: the stress and strain, potential energy and volume change, void evolution, phase structure change and dislocation evolution of magnesium alloy are consistent, and there is no significant difference. In the process of uniaxial compression, the phase transformation of hexagonal closely packed (HCP) → face-centered cubic (FCC) is the main, and its structure evolves into HCP → Other → FCC. Shockley partial dislocations always precede FCC stacking faults by about 4.5%, and Shockley partial dislocations surround FCC stacking faults. In this paper, the phase transformation mechanism of AZ31 magnesium alloy under uniaxial compression under different loading directions is summarized, which provides a theoretical basis for the processing and development of magnesium-based nanoalloys.
Differential responses of chicken monocyte-derived dendritic cells infected with Salmonella Gallinarum and Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Singh Degpal , Singh Mithilesh , Chander Vishal , Sharma Gaurav Kumar , Mahawar Manish , Teeli Aamir Salam , Goswami Tapas Kumar
Published: August 2021

Salmonella enterica serovar Gallinarum is a host-restricted bacterial pathogen that causes a serious systemic disease exclusively in birds of all ages. Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a host-generalist serovar. Dendritic cells (DCs) are key antigen-presenting cells that play an important part in Salmonella host-restriction. We evaluated the differential response of chicken blood monocyte-derived dendritic cells (chMoDCs) exposed to S. Gallinarum or S. Typhimurium. S. Typhimurium was found to be more invasive while S. Gallinarum was more cytotoxic at the early phase of infection and later showed higher resistance against chMoDCs killing. S. Typhimurium promoted relatively higher upregulation of costimulatory and other immune function genes on chMoDCs in comparison to S. Gallinarum during early phase of infection (6 h) as analyzed by real-time PCR. Both Salmonella serovars strongly upregulated the proinflammatory transcripts, however, quantum was relatively narrower with S. Gallinarum. S. Typhimurium-infected chMoDCs promoted relatively higher proliferation of naïve T-cells in comparison to S. Gallinarum as assessed by mixed lymphocyte reaction. Our findings indicated that host restriction of S. Gallinarum to chicken is linked with its profound ability to interfere the DCs function. Present findings provide a valuable roadmap for future work aimed at improved vaccine strategies against this pathogen.
Causes of admission, length of stay and outcomes for common kestrels in rehabilitation centres in the Czech Republic
Authors: Lukesova Gabriela , Voslarova Eva , Vecerek Vladimir , Vucinic Marijana
Published: August 2021

Rehabilitation centres help injured animals to recover and return back to the wild. This study aimed to analyse trends in intake and outcomes for the common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) admitted into rehabilitation centres in the Czech Republic. From 2010 to 2019, a total of 12,923 kestrels were admitted to 34 rehabilitation centres with an increasing trend (rSp = 0.7697, P < 0.01) being found during the monitored period. Subadult kestrels (34.70%) and kestrels injured by power lines (26.57%) were most often admitted. Most kestrels in the rehabilitation centres died or had to be euthanized (81.66%), only 15.90% of the birds could be released back into the wild. The median length of stay in rehabilitation centres for kestrels that were subsequently released was 35 days. Considering survival rates, the most critical threat to kestrels was poisoning (100% of the cases resulted in death) but mortality of the kestrels admitted for most other reasons also exceeded 80%. Given the low success rate of the care of kestrels in rehabilitation centres and the relatively small proportion returned to the wild, it is essential to eliminate the causes leading to their admission, that is, to protect their natural habitats and to prevent unnecessary capture.
TP53 isoform junction reads based analysis in malignant and normal contexts
Authors: Vural Suleyman , Chang Lun-Ching , Yee Laura M. , Sonkin Dmitriy
Published: August 2021

TP53 is one of the most frequently altered genes in cancer; it can be inactivated by a number of different mechanisms. NM_000546.6 (ENST00000269305.9) is by far the predominant TP53 isoform, however a few other alternative isoforms have been described to be expressed at much lower levels. To better understand patterns of TP53 alternative isoforms expression in cancer and normal samples we performed exon-exon junction reads based analysis of TP53 isoforms using RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia (CCLE), and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. TP53 C-terminal alternative isoforms have abolished or severely decreased tumor suppressor activity, and therefore, an increase in fraction of TP53 C-terminal alternative isoforms may be expected in tumors with wild type TP53. Despite our expectation that there would be increase of fraction of TP53 C-terminal alternative isoforms, we observed no substantial increase in fraction of TP53 C-terminal alternative isoforms in TCGA tumors and CCLE cancer cell lines with wild type TP53, likely indicating that TP53 C-terminal alternative isoforms expression cannot be reliably selected for during tumor progression.
Patient-specific effects of soluble factors from Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms on osteogenic differentiation of primary human osteoblasts
Authors: Tübel Jutta , Maier Elisabeth , Jegen Magdalena , Marthen Carmen , Obermeier Andreas , Haug Alexander T. , Schneider Jochen , Burgkart Rainer
Published: August 2021

Due to the frequency of biofilm-forming Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis in orthopedics, it is crucial to understand the interaction between the soluble factors produced by prokaryotes and their effects on eukaryotes. Our knowledge concerning the effect of soluble biofilm factors (SBF) and their virulence potential on osteogenic differentiation is limited to few studies, particularly when there is no direct contact between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. SBF were produced by incubating biofilm from S. aureus and S. epidermidis in osteogenic media. Osteoblasts of seven donors were included in this study. Our results demonstrate that the detrimental effects of these pathogens do not require direct contact between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. SBF produced by S. aureus and S. epidermidis affect the metabolic activity of osteoblasts. However, the effect of SBF derived from S. aureus seems to be more pronounced compared to that of S. epidermidis. The influence of SBF of S. aureus and S. epidermidis on gene expression of COL1A1, ALPL, BGLAP, SPP1, RUNX2 is bacteria-, patient-, concentration-, and incubation time dependent. Mineralization was monitored by staining the calcium and phosphate deposition and revealed that the SBF of S. epidermidis markedly inhibits calcium deposition; however, S. aureus shows a less inhibitory effect. Therefore, these new findings support the hypotheses that soluble biofilm factors affect the osteogenic processes substantially, particularly when there is no direct interaction between bacteria and osteoblast.
Explainable machine-learning predictions for complications after pediatric congenital heart surgery
Authors: Zeng Xian , Hu Yaoqin , Shu Liqi , Li Jianhua , Duan Huilong , Shu Qiang , Li Haomin
Published: August 2021

The quality of treatment and prognosis after pediatric congenital heart surgery remains unsatisfactory. A reliable prediction model for postoperative complications of congenital heart surgery patients is essential to enable prompt initiation of therapy and improve the quality of prognosis. Here, we develop an interpretable machine-learning-based model that integrates patient demographics, surgery-specific features and intraoperative blood pressure data for accurately predicting complications after pediatric congenital heart surgery. We used blood pressure variability and the k-means algorithm combined with a smoothed formulation of dynamic time wrapping to extract features from time-series data. In addition, SHAP framework was used to provide explanations of the prediction. Our model achieved the best performance both in binary and multi-label classification compared with other consensus-based risk models. In addition, this explainable model explains why a prediction was made to help improve the clinical understanding of complication risk and generate actionable knowledge in practice. The combination of model performance and interpretability is easy for clinicians to trust and provide insight into how they should respond before the condition worsens after pediatric congenital heart surgery.
Increased retinal venular calibre in acute infections
Authors: Fitt Cara , Luong Thao Vi , Cresp Damian , Hutchinson Anastasia , Lim Karen , Hodgson Lauren , Colville Deb , Savige Judy
Published: August 2021

Population-based studies have demonstrated that increased retinal venular calibre is a risk factor for cardiac disease, cardiac events and stroke. Venular dilatation also occurs with diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia and autoimmune disease where it is attributed to inflammation. This study examined whether the inflammation associated with infections also affected microvascular calibre. Participants with infections and CRP levels  >  100 mg/L were recruited from the medical wards of a teaching hospital and assisted to complete a demographic and vascular risk factor questionnaire, and to undergo non-mydriatic retinal photography (Canon CR5-45NM, Japan). They were then treated with appropriate antibiotics, and underwent repeat retinal imaging when their CRP levels had fallen to less than 100 mg/L. Retinal images were examined for arteriole and venular calibre using validated semi-automated software based on Knudtson’s modification of the Parr-Hubbard formula (IVAN, U Wisconsin). Differences in inflammatory markers and calibre were examined using the paired t-test for continuous variables. Determinants of calibre were calculated from multiple linear regression analysis. Forty-one participants with respiratory (27, 66%), urinary (6, 15%), skin (5, 12%), or miscellaneous (3, 7%) infections were studied. After antibiotic treatment, participants’ mean CRP levels fell from 172.9 ± 68.4 mg/L to 42.2 ± 28.2 mg/L (p < 0.0001) and mean neutrophil counts fell from 9 ± 4 × 109/L to 6 ± 3 × 109/L (p < 0.0001). The participants’ mean venular calibre (CRVE) decreased from 240.9 ± 26.9 MU to 233.4 ± 23.5 MU (p = 0.0017) but arteriolar calibre (CRAE) was unchanged (156.9 ± 15.2 MU and 156.2 ± 16.0 MU, p = 0.84). Thirteen additional participants with infections had a CRP > 100 mg/L that persisted at review (199.2 ± 59.0 and 159.4 ± 40.7 mg/L, p = 0.055). Their CRAE and CRVE were not different before and after antibiotic treatment (p = 0.96, p = 0.78). Hospital inpatients with severe infections had retinal venular calibre that decreased as their infections resolved and CRP levels fell after antibiotic treatment. The changes in venular calibre with intercurrent infections may confound retinal vascular assessments of, for example, blood pressure control and cardiac risk.
Downregulation of CD40L–CD40 attenuates seizure susceptibility and severity of seizures
Authors: Pototskiy Esther , Vinokuroff Katherine , Ojeda Andrew , Major C. Kendall , Sharma Deepak , Anderson Taylor , Howard Kendall , Borenstein Ronen , Musto Alberto E.
Published: August 2021

Unregulated neuro-inflammation mediates seizures in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Our aim was to determine the effect of CD40–CD40L activation in experimental seizures. CD40 deficient mice (CD40KO) and control mice (wild type, WT) received pentenyltetrazole (PTZ) or pilocarpine to evaluate seizures and status epilepticus (SE) respectively. In mice, anti-CD40L antibody was administered intranasally before PTZ. Brain samples from human TLE and post-seizure mice were processed to determine CD40–CD40L expression using histological and molecular techniques. CD40 expression was higher in hippocampus from human TLE and in cortical neurons and hippocampal neural terminals after experimental seizures. CD40–CD40L levels increased after seizures in the hippocampus and in the cortex. After SE, CD40L/CD40 levels increased in cortex and showed an upward trend in the hippocampus. CD40KO mice demonstrated reduction in seizure severity and in latency compared to WT mice. Anti-CD40L antibody limited seizure susceptibility and seizure severity. CD40L–CD40 interaction can serve as a target for an immuno-therapy for TLE.
Non-toxic polymer nanovectors for improved delivery of dexamethasone
Authors: Ede Benjamin C. , Diamanti Paraskevi , Williams David S. , Blair Allison
Published: August 2021

Dexamethasone (Dex) is a highly insoluble front-line drug used in cancer therapy. Data from clinical trials indicates that the pharmacokinetics of Dex vary considerably between patients and prolonging drug exposure rather than increasing absolute dose may improve efficacy. Non-toxic, fully biodegradable Dex loaded nanovectors (NV) were formulated, via simple direct hydration within 10 min, as a vehicle to extend exposure and distribution in vivo. Dex-NV were just as effective as the free drug against primary human leukemia cells in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, high levels of DMSO solvent were not required in the NV formulations. Broad distribution of NV was seen rapidly following inoculation into mice. NV accumulated in major organs, including bone marrow and brain, known sanctuary sites for ALL. The study describes a non-toxic, more easily scalable system for improving Dex solubility for use in cancer and can be applied to other medical conditions associated with inflammation.
Difference in electron microscopic findings among interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome with distinct clinical and cystoscopic characteristics
Authors: Lee Yu Khun , Jhang Jia-Fong , Jiang Yuan-Hong , Hsu Yung-Hsiang , Ho Han-Chen , Kuo Hann-Chorng
Published: August 2021

Urothelial dysfunction may be a key pathomechanism underlying interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). We therefore examined if clinical severity is associated with the extent of urothelial damage as revealed by electron microscopic (EM) analysis of biopsy tissue. One hundred IC/BPS patients were enrolled and 24 patients with stress urinary incontinence served as controls. Clinical symptoms were evaluated by visual analog scale pain score and O’Leary-Sant Symptom score. Bladder biopsies were obtained following cystoscopic hydrodistention. The presence of Hunner’s lesions and glomerulation grade after hydrodistention were recorded and patients classified as Hunner-type IC (HIC) or non-Hunner-type IC (NHIC). HIC patients exhibited more severe defects in urothelium cell layers, including greater loss of umbrella cells, umbrella cell surface uroplakin plaque, and tight junctions between adjacent umbrella cells, compared to control and NHIC groups (all p < 0.05). Both NHIC and HIC groups demonstrated more severe lamina propria inflammatory cell infiltration than controls (p = 0.011, p < 0.001, respectively). O’Leary-Sant Symptom scores were significantly higher among patients with more severe urothelial defects (p = 0.030). Thus, urothelium cell layer defects on EM are associated with greater clinical symptom severity.
Fabrication of Pd/CeO2nanocubes as highly efficient catalysts for degradation of formaldehyde at room temperature
Authors: Chen Yafeng , Jiang Guimin , Cui Xiangzhi , Zhang Zuotai , Hou Xinmei
Published: August 2021

The highly active Pd/CeO2nanocube interface guarantees a high percentage of metallic Pd and the surface active O species is responsible for the complete decomposition of formaldehyde.
Photocontrolled lactide ROP by the light-regulated release of potassium acetate from an azobenzene-bridged crown ether
Authors: De Roover Quentin , Vucko Timothé , Vincent Stéphane P. , De Winter Julien , Coulembier Olivier
Published: August 2021

An azobenzene-bridged crown ether was successfully used as a photoswitch for modulating the catalytic activity of potassium acetate (KOAc) in the ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of l-lactide (l-LA) when initiated from an exogenous alcohol.
Development and characterization of an adaptable aerosolized methylene diphenyl diisocyanate generation system
Authors: Aubin Simon , Wingert Loïc , Gagné Sébastien , Breau Livain , Lesage Jacques
Published: August 2021

Isocyanates are reactive compounds found in industrial processes and are still challenging to evaluation as contaminants. A simple airborne methylene diphenyl diisocyanate generation system can be used in the comparison studies of evaluation methods.
Water absorption dependence of the formation of poly(vinyl alcohol)-iodine complexes for poly(vinyl alcohol) films
Authors: Song Yingxu , Zhang Sumei , Kang Jian , Chen Jinyao , Cao Ya
Published: August 2021

Swelling process improves the mobility of PVA segments, while dyeing process restricts that. And there is a large water absorption dependence on the formation of PVA–iodine complexes.
Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Pterocephalus hookeri (C. B. Clarke) Höeck: a review
Authors: Gan Zhiqiang , Jiang Juan , Tao Honglin , Luo Shiying , Meng Xianli , Yu Jia , Zhang Yi , Tang Ce
Published: August 2021

Pterocephalus hookeri (C. B. Clarke) Höeck has been used in traditional Tibetan medicine for thousands of years. The existing research results of P. hookeri are summarized, and will provide a basis for the further development of new drugs.
Critical issues in molecular recognition: the enzyme–substrate association
Authors: Ciferri Alberto
Published: August 2021

Bond scumbling promotes the enzyme-substrate adhesion.
Local electrocatalytic activity of PtRu supported on nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes towards methanol oxidation by scanning electrochemical microscopy
Authors: Gupta Divyani , Chakraborty Sudip , Amorim Rodrigo G. , Ahuja Rajeev , Nagaiah Tharamani C.
Published: August 2021

Bimetallic PtRu decorated over nitrogen-containing CNTs was synthesised by an impregnation–reduction method to achieve a remarkable activity towards methanol oxidation, which is supported by DFT studies. The local electrocatalytic activity during methanol oxidation was determined by means of scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) measurements.
Detection of bile acids using optical biosensors based on cholesteric liquid crystal droplets
Authors: Gollapelli Buchaiah , Tatipamula Arun Kumar , Dewanjee Saikat , Pathinti Ramadevi Suguru , Vallamkondu Jayalakshmi
Published: August 2021

We report a novel highly sensitive bile acids (cholic acid and deoxycholic acid) biosensor based on PVA/SC12S-stabilized cholesteric liquid crystal droplets.
Regulating the metal nodes of 1D conjugated coordination polymers for enhancing the performance of sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Fan Kun , Zhang Chenyang , Chen Yuan , Zhang Guoqun , Wu Yanchao , Zou Jincheng , Wang Chengliang
Published: August 2021

1D conjugated coordination polymers M-DHBQ (M = Mn, Zn, and Ni) were constructed for sodium-ion batteries. Ni-DHBQ delivered the highest performance. These results highlighted the importance of metal ions for high performance batteries.
Stable vortex in Bose-Einstein condensate dark matter
Authors: Nikolaieva Y. O. , Olashyn A. O. , Kuriatnikov Y. I. , Vilchynskii S. I. , Yakimenko A. I.
Published: August 2021

The nature of dark matter (DM) is one of the most fascinating unresolved challenges of modern physics. One of the perspective hypotheses suggests that DM consists of ultralight bosonic particles in the state of Bose–Einstein condensate (BEC). The superfluid nature of BEC must dramatically affect the properties of DM including quantization of the angular momentum. Angular momentum quantum in the form of a vortex line is expected to produce a considerable impact on the luminous matter in galaxies including density distribution and rotation curves. We investigate the evolution of spinning DM cloud with typical galactic halo mass and radius. Analytically and numerically stationary vortex soliton states with different topological charges have been analyzed. It has been shown that while all multi-charged vortex states are unstable, a single-charged vortex soliton is extremely robust and survives during the lifetime of the Universe.
A search for the desert rat-kangaroo or ngudlukanta (
Authors: Vernes Karl , Jackson Stephen M. , Elliott Todd F. , Elliott Kelsey , Carr Steven G.
Published: August 2021

The desert rat-kangaroo or ‘ngudlukanta’ (Caloprymnus campestris) was once sparsely distributed in the Lake Eyre Basin of north-eastern South Australia and adjacent parts of Queensland, but has not been collected since the 1930s. However, numerous reported sightings, including some recent, provide some hope that it may still be extant. In 2018 and 2019, we searched for evidence of this species at sites where it had been collected in the 1930s, and at places where people have since reported seeing an animal that fits its description. Our survey, which analysed data from more than 6000 camera trap nights, 536 predator scats and 226 km of spotlight transects, was the most extensive field-based search ever undertaken for this animal; but we found no evidence for its continued existence. However, our work did detect other threatened species including a range extension for the kowari (Dasyuroides byrnei), thereby demonstrating the value of surveys like this one. Because of the vastness and inaccessibility of much of the terrain comprising the supposed distribution of C. campestris, we do not see our null result as definitive for this poorly surveyed animal; we instead hope that it provides a starting point for future surveys aimed at resolving its status.
Poverty-related bandwidth constraints reduce the value of consumption
Authors: Schofield Heather , Venkataramani Atheendar S.
Published: August 2021

Significance

Poverty confers many costs on individuals, primarily through constraining material resources. Poverty may also worsen welfare by reducing the utility (or enjoyment) individuals may get from whatever little they are able to consume by constraining cognitive resources—conferring a “double tax” on the wellbeing of the poor. However, the impacts of poverty on utility from consumption are not well known. We conducted a randomized experiment in India to investigate this question. We found that participants randomized to various features of poverty (e.g., thinking about a difficult financial situation) reported reduced enjoyment on a range of subsequent activities. The findings suggest that programs that alleviate the material deprivation of poverty may be even more valuable than assumed.
Performance study of a 3×1×1 m3 dual phase liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber exposed to cosmic rays
Authors: Aimard B. , Aizawa L. , Alt C. , Asaadi J. , Auger M. , Aushev V. , Autiero D. , Balaceanu A. , Balik G. , Balleyguier L. , Bechetoille E. , Belver D. , Blebea-Apostu A.M. , Bolognesi S. , Bordoni S. , Bourgeois N. , Bourguille B. , Bremer J. , Brown G. , Brunetti L. , Brunetti G. , Caiulo D. , Calin M. , Calvo E. , Campanelli M. , Cankocak K. , Cantini C. , Carlus B. , Cautisanu B.M. , Chalifour M. , Chappuis A. , Charitonidis N. , Chatterjee A. , Chiriacescuf A. , Chiu P. , Coan T. , Conforti S. , Cotte P. , Crivelli P. , Cuesta C. , Dawson J. , De Bonis I. , De La Taille C. , Delbart A. , Di Luise S. , Doizon F. , Drancourt C. , Duchesneau D. , Dulucq F. , Duval F. , Emery S. , Ereditato A. , Falcone A. , Fusshoeller K. , Gallego-Ros A. , Galymov V. , Geffroy N. , Gendotti A. , Gherghel-Lascu A. , Gil-Botella I. , Girerd C. , Gomoiu M.C. , Gorodetzky P. , Hamada E. , Hanni R. , Hasegawa T. , Holin A. , Horikawa S. , Ikeno M. , Jiménez S. , Jipa A. , Karolak M. , Karyotakis Y. , Kasai S. , Kasami K. , Kishishita T. , Konari H. , Kreslo I. , Kryn D. , Kunzé P. , Kurokawa M. , Kuromori Y. , Lastoria C. , Lazanu I. , Lehmann-Miotto G. , Leyton M. , Lira N. , Liubarska M. , Loo K. , Lorca D. , Lutz P. , Lux T. , Maalampi J. , Maire G. , Maki M. , Manenti L. , Margineanu R.M. , Marteau J. , Martin-Chassard G. , Mathez H. , Mazzucato E. , Misitano G. , Mladenov D. , Molina Bueno L. , Mosu T.S. , Mu W. , Murphy S. , Nakayoshi K. , Narita S. , Navas-Nicolás D. , Negishi K. , Nessi M. , Niculescu-Oglinzanu M. , Noto F. , Noury A. , Onishchuk Y. , Palomares C. , Parvu M. , Patzak T. , Penichot Y. , Pennacchio E. , Periale L. , Pessard H. , Pietropaolo F. , Pugnere D. , Radics B. , Redondo D. , Regenfus C. , Remoto A. , Resnati F. , Ristea O. , Rubbia A. , Saftoiu A. , Sakashita K. , Sanchez F. , Santos C. , Scarpelli A. , Schloesser C. , Sendai K. , Sergiampietri F. , Shahsavarani S. , Shoji M. , Sinclair J. , Soto-Oton J. , Stanca D.I. , Stefan D. , Sulej R. , Tanaka M. , Toboaru V. , Tonazzo A. , Tromeur W. , Trzaska W.H. , Uchida T. , Urda L. , Vannucci F. , Vasseur G. , Verdugo A. , Viant T. , Vihonen S. , Vilalte S. , Weber M. , Wu S. , Yu J. , Zambelli L. , Zito M.
Published: August 2021

We report the results of the analyses of the cosmic ray data collected with a 4 tonne (3×1×1 m3) active mass (volume) Liquid Argon Time-Projection Chamber (TPC) operated in a dual-phase mode. We present a detailed study of the TPC's response, its main detector parameters and performance. The results are important for the understanding and further developments of the dual-phase technology, thanks to the verification of key aspects, such as the extraction of electrons from liquid to gas and their amplification through the entire one square metre readout plain, gain stability, purity and charge sharing between readout views.
Separation of scales: dynamical approximations for composite quantum systems*
Authors: Burghardt Irene , Carles Rémi , Kammerer Clotilde Fermanian , Lasorne Benjamin , Lasser Caroline
Published: August 2021

We consider composite quantum-dynamical systems that can be partitioned into weakly interacting subsystems, similar to system–bath type situations. Using a factorized wave function ansatz, we mathematically characterize dynamical scale separation. Specifically, we investigate a coupling régime that is partially flat, i.e. slowly varying with respect to one set of variables, for example, those of the bath. Further, we study the situation where one of the sets of variables is semiclassically scaled and derive a quantum–classical formulation. In both situations, we propose two schemes of dimension reduction: one based on Taylor expansion (collocation) and the other one based on partial averaging (mean-field). We analyze the error for the wave function and for the action of observables, obtaining comparable estimates for both approaches. The present study is the first step towards a general analysis of scale separation in the context of tensorized wavefunction representations.
Set-theoretic Yang–Baxter equation, braces and Drinfeld twists
Authors: Doikou Anastasia
Published: August 2021

We consider involutive, non-degenerate, finite set-theoretic solutions of the Yang–Baxter equation (YBE). Such solutions can be always obtained using certain algebraic structures that generalize nilpotent rings called braces. Our main aim here is to express such solutions in terms of admissible Drinfeld twists substantially extending recent preliminary results. We first identify the generic form of the twists associated to set-theoretic solutions and we show that these twists are admissible, i.e. they satisfy a certain co-cycle condition. These findings are also valid for Baxterized solutions of the YBE constructed from the set-theoretical ones.
Study on Behavior of Concrete Mixes using Waste Plastics as an alternative for Coarse Aggregates
Authors: Karthik M , Ajey Kumar V G , Keshava Mangala
Published: August 2021

This study proposes the use of waste plastics namely high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene ethylene (PPE) as a replacement to natural coarse aggregates in M20 mix concrete. The study was carried out by testing specimens prepared by replacing recycled waste plastic coarse aggregates (RPCA) produced using semi mechanized process and conventional mix for their workability, compressive strength, flexural strength, split tensile strength and behavior of plastic aggregates at high temperature. Three different set of plastic aggregates were produced by using HDPE LDPE PPE plastic wastes respectively. It was observed that concrete mixes with increasing percent of plastic waste aggregates showed decrease in workability. Compressive strength and flexural strength reduced due to weak Interfacial Transition Zone (ITZ) between plastic aggregates and paste. Tensile strength increased by addition of waste plastic aggregates due to its aggregate property. Exposure of concrete specimens to higher temperature behaved positively in strength parameters. Replacement of 10-20% of RPCA can be made without affecting strength and durability parameters.
Storm Water Purification in an Urban City of India using a Bio-retention Filter
Authors: Mishra S S , Verma V K
Published: August 2021

Bio-retention filtration system is the leading water conservation strategy that makes use of biogeochemical technique within a vegetation ecosystem to retain soil moisture, purify and conserve storm water in urban cities. The present study was aimed at designing a bio-retention filter basin in Kharghar node of Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The analysis was carried out for both minor (5-year average recurrence interval) and major (100-year average recurrence interval) floods. Total discharge was computed using the rational formula and it was estimated as 0.023 m3/s for minor flood condition and as 0.037 m3/s for major flood condition. The maximum infiltration rate was computed as 0.0047 m3/s considering sandy loam soil as the filter media. A flow width of 1.6 m was considered in designing the bio-retention filter. 100 mm diameter polyvinyl chloride pipe was proposed as they are the best in terms of performance and have advantage over other pipes. No liner is required for filter according to the soil condition of Kharghar. A transition layer of 100 mm gravel was suggested to provide better efficiency and durability for the bio retention system. The vegetation for the bio-retention basin can be Doob or Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) as it has the highest water retention capacity as per Indian conditions.
Comparative Analysis of Cantilever Retaining Wall and Retaining Wall with Relieving Platform
Authors: Jiwankar Himanshu , Mahule Niraj , Jichkar Rutvik , Dahiwale Vaibhav , Dabhekar Kuldeep , Khedikar Isha , Agrawal Rahul
Published: August 2021

The concept and study of a cantilever retaining wall and a cantilever retaining wall with relieving platform with elevations varying from 5 to 8 meters and having a safe bearing capacity of 160 KN/m2 are presented in this paper. It also depicts relative research such as bending moment, safety against overturning and sliding, expense and economy, between the retaining walls. The cost and optimal cost are calculated as part of the relative analysis. Software and analytical results such as bending moment, deflection, and stresses are also discussed in this paper. Laterally acting total earth pressure is depicted to be reduced due to the provision of relieving platform (RP). The retaining wall with relieving platform (RW with RP) is shown to be cost-effective, more stable, and relieve the BM of the stem and heel portions than cantilever retaining wall (CRW). The findings of this research is drawn based on the results obtained using different models prepared in software, comparison of bending moments, requirement of tension reinforcement and these results are verified by manual analysis. The research shows that the CRW with RP is more economical and is more worthy than CRW.
Behaviour of Fly Ash and Silica Fume based Composite Fiber (Glass and Polypropylene) reinforced High-Performance Concrete under Acid Attack
Authors: Patil Sachin , Somasekharaiah H. M. , Sudarsana Rao H. , Ghorpade Vaishali G
Published: August 2021

High-Performance-Concrete made with glass fibers and polypropylene fibers are regarded as Composite Fibre (Glass and polypropylene) Reinforced High-Performance Concrete (CFRHPC). The development of cost-effective state-of-the-art procedures for producing, evaluating, and designing with CFRHPC will enhance the performance for each performance characteristic and can be reliably achieved in the field. This investigation evaluates the effect of cement being partially replaced by combined fly ash and silica fume with glass fibers and polypropylene fibers as an addition to produce high-performance concrete with composite fiber for resistance to sulfuric acid attack for 30, 60, and 90 days. The water to binder ratios of 0.275, 0.300, 0.325, and 0.350 and an aggregate to binder ratio of 1.75 were adopted. Fly ash and silica fume were replaced in the range from 0% to 15% each, glass fibers were added in volume percentages from 0% to 1%, and polypropylene fibers were kept constant at 0.25%. The combined effect of fly ash and silica fume at 5% each as replacement of cement and the addition of composite fiber dosage of glass fiber = 1% and polypropylene fibers = 0.25% for water to binder ratio of 0.275 was found to be the optimum combination to obtain maximum acid attack resistance.
Estimation of Hydrologic Simulation in Upstream of KRS Reservoir using SWAT Model
Authors: Deepthi B P , Tuppad Pushpa , Lokesh K S
Published: August 2021

The simulation of hydrologic response of a watershed system using hydrologic models involves calibration and validation process. Carrying out these processes, indeed requires an intensive knowledge on the parameters that impact the hydrologic process in that particular system. In this study, Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was used to simulate the streamflow for upstream of Krishna Raja Sagar (KRS) reservoir, Karnataka, India for the period from 1982-2014. Sensitivity analysis, calibration and validation was carried out using SWAT CUP (SWAT-calibration and uncertainty program) along with SUFI-2 algorithm (sequential uncertainty fitting-version 2) for monthly time scale. The computational efficiency and performance of the model was evaluated using statistical metrics including Nash-Sutcliffe (NS), Coefficient of determination (R2) and Percent bias (P-bias), p factor and r factor. Sensitivity of the parameters were analysed by performing one-at-a-time technique. Calibration of the model was carried out for a period of 10 years i.e., 2002-2011 and validation period was 3 years i.e., 2012-2014 which is one-third of the calibration time period. Using 90 m resolution DEM, landuse and soil maps, observed and 0.25° gridded rainfall along with other observed weather data. NS and R2for calibration and validation period were 0.62, 0.67 and 0.60, 0.60, respectively. Thus, result indicates that SWAT model can be further used to assess the impacts of management scenarios as it effectively simulated the hydrologic response in the KRS catchment.
Stabilization of Residual Soil from Wastewater Treatment Plant by using Bio-Enzyme (Terrazyme)
Authors: Fazal Ahmed Ejaz , Thyagaraj K J , Aravindan S , Shafi Syed Farhan , Shahzaib Mir
Published: August 2021

In India, the foremost important prerequisite for a project is performance criteria, economic feasibility and serviceability. The Traditional methods are laborious and don’t seem to be economically viable. Therefore, there is a need to innovate other ways to ensure serviceability as well as economic viability. In this Study, the effects on residual soil’s engineering properties due to bio enzymes are discussed. The soil stabilization with Terrazyme may be a well-established technique that became predominant worldwide due to its performance. There are numerous bio-enzymes that are used for the stabilization of soil like Terra-Zyme, Fujibeton, Renolith, Perma-Zyme, etc. These enzymes are demonstrated to be effective and economical. One among the main advantages of bio-enzymes is that they’re eco-friendly. Once we mix this terrazyme with different types of soils it modifies/improves the soil engineering and index properties. The effectiveness of Terrazyme relies on the quantity of addition, type of soil, and conditions on fields. The utilization of terrazyme for residual soils isn’t well known. In this study, Residual soils obtained from waste water treatment plant is used and its properties were found by conducting tests, it was found that the residual soil was not suitable for any engineering purposes as its UCS was less and it had high water content, hence it was treated with terrazyme in different dosages to supplement the properties of residual soil and obtain its optimum. Treating residual soil with terrazyme improves engineering properties of residual soil to great extent such that UCS of residual soil increased by 250% by adding 2% of terrazyme.
Application of Heavy Metal Pollution Index and Metal Index for the Assessment of Groundwater Quality in Peenya Industrial Area
Authors: Anitha B H , Maya Naik S N , Nanjundaswamy C , Divyanand M S
Published: August 2021

Heavy metals, at lower concentrations, have a high atomic weight and density which are toxic and can harm human health and the environment. The level of toxicity typically depends on the age, genetics, gender, the amount of exposure, and the level of immunity of the people. The aim of this study is to determine the extent of heavy metal pollution in Bangalore’s Peenya industrial area (PIA). Heavy metal concentrations were found in the following order: Cr > Cr+6 > Pb > Ni > Fe > Cd. The pollution indices, Heavy metal pollution index (HPI), and Metal index (MI) are used to measure the quality of groundwater based on the ranking. The mean concentration of HPI value is 845.1, which is significantly higher than the critical index value of 100. The percentage of groundwater samples that are over 100 index value is 83.33 percent, which is deemed completely unsuitable for purpose of drinking. The mean MI concentration was 27.1, and it was discovered that 73 percent of groundwater samples were “Seriously Affected” (MI value > 6.0). The findings indicate that the groundwater in these samples is extremely polluted and unfit for human use. It depicts the present state of the PIA in terms of harmful heavy metal pollution in groundwater. The effect of urbanization and industrialization on the study area has played a significant role in the deficit of groundwater quality.
Multistorey Building Analysis and Its Behavior because of Shear Wall Location Underneath completely different Seismal Zones
Authors: Reshma T V , Sankalpasri S S , Tanu H M , Nirmala M V
Published: August 2021

Earthquake leads to a disaster by creating massive damage on the surface of the earth. A framed structure reduces the impact of an earthquake. In these types of structures, shear wall plays a vital role by resisting the horizontal shear effectively. The shear wall is the flexural members that effectively resist displacement by providing adequate stiffness to the structure. In this work, the behavior of structure considering shear wall location in a different location under different seismic zones are studied both along the longitudinal and transverse direction. The dynamic response spectrum analysis is done as per IS code and by using design software ETABS. A 20 floor RCC building including base shear, time-period, drift ratio, & displacement are studied. The comparative analysis is done by considering with and without shear walls at different locations. The best feasible position of the shear wall is emphasized in our studies.
Review on “Effect of Floating Columns on Building subjected to seismic Forces”
Authors: Pawar Neha , Dabhekar Kuldeep , Patil P.B. , Khedikar Isha
Published: August 2021

In recent trends, Floating column is used to occupy more spaces for functional requirement. Floating Column is that architectural feature which gives poor response to earthquake. Hence it should be avoided in Earthquake prone zones. This review shows the responses of various studies done by Researchers. Comparison of result is done with respect to different parameters like bending moment, storey shear, displacement, time period etc. Authors have modelled various structures such as conventional Building, building with Floating Columns, building modelled with different solutions and their solution is compared. This review also focuses on the methodology to be adopted to have better seismic response of Building with Floating Column.
Abundance of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in ground water of coastal areas at Sundarban; removal strategy and remediation
Authors: Basak Somjyoti , Sarkar Subhendu , Majumdar Swachchha
Published: August 2021

The confluence of various rivers, swamp forests, salty water abundance makes Sundarban a quite vulnerable ecosystem. This part of the delta areas suffers heavily from fresh water scarcity due to its increased salinity in river bed and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)/polyaromatic hydrocarbons/polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. PAHs are generally insoluble and found as contaminants in drinking water produced from burning coal, gasoline, trash, tobacco, wood etc. Samples of ground water have been found with more than ten different variants of PAHs by gas chromatography equipment with large amount of dissolved salts which are harmful for human health. A conventional activated carbon packed bed type treatment process has been used to purify the contaminated organic rich raw water by the adsorptive surface contact method of bed. In order to remove fine particles leaching out of the packed bed filter, an ultrafiltration membrane was used to reject those substances which are producing turbidity, such as fine particles, colloids, algae remaining in the water. Total dissolved solids and the PAHs of the ground water reduced significantly by the dual process and further this combination may be used for effective separation of PAHs and cost effective drinking water production.