bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermophoresis and Brownian motion effects on Williamson nanofluid flow past a stretching surface with thermal radiation and chemical reaction
Authors: Sulochana Chalavadi , Mahalaxmi Belagumpi
Published: January 2022

The heat transfer mechanism of nanofluids has numerous industrial applications owing to the non‐Newtonian behavior and has been exercised as a thermophysical phenomena in presence of thermal radiation. The present paper deals with the thermal transfer characteristics of time‐independent magnetohydrodynamics Williamson fluid past a stretching surface in presence of the reaction of chemical equilibrium is dealt. The flow constitutive nonlinear partial differential coupled equations are transmitted into ordinary differential equalities by employing relevant similarity transmutations. These deduced equations are determined by using the Runge–Kutta numerical technique with a shooting approach with the aid of MATLAB software. Influences of distinct pertinent flow parameters like an inclined uniform magnetic field, Soret number, heat generation/absorption, and Schmidt number constrained to convective boundary condition is displayed through graphs with relevant physical interpretations. Computed numerical values for the friction factor coefficient, local Nusselt parameter, and Sherwood number are tabulated.
Front cover
Authors: Wu Limin , Wang Yuye , Li Haibin , Wang Zelong , Ge Meilan , Xu Degang , Yao Jianquan
Published: January 2022

Continuous‐wave terahertz reflection imaging is a potential tool for biological tissues. Based on our home‐made continuouswave terahertz reflection imaging system, the effect of both polarization mode and reflection window on the imaging performance is studied theoretically and experimentally, showing good agreement. By taking obtaining sample information and image contrast into consideration, p‐polarized terahertz waves are recommended. Moreover, considering the sample boundary identification and the image contrast, selection criteria for reflection window are proposed. This work will help to improve the performance of continuous‐wave terahertz reflection imaging and accelerate the THz imaging in biological application.

Further details can be found in the article by Limin Wu, Yuye Wang, Haibin Li, Zelong Wang, Meilan Ge, Degang Xu, and Jianquan Yao (e202100245).

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Periodontal ligament stem cells promote polarization of M2 macrophages
Authors: Liu Jiani , Wang Hong , Zhang Ludan , Li Xiaoyu , Ding Xiaoling , Ding Gang , Wei Fulan
Published: January 2022

Macrophages are widely distributed in a variety of tissues, and the different state of macrophages polarization is closely related to the occurrence, development, and prognosis of inflammation, including periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease leading to tooth loss worldwide. Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) play a key role in immune regulation and periodontal tissues regeneration, contributing to cell-based therapy of periodontitis. However, the interactions between PDLSCs and macrophages are still elusive. The purpose of present study is to investigate the effect of PDLSCs conditioned medium (PDLSCs-CM) on the macrophage polarization and the possible mechanism. PDLSCs were isolated using tissue explant methods and characterized via multipotent differentiation test and examination of expression profiles of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) markers. The supernatant of PDLSCs was collected, centrifuged, filtered, and used as PDLSCs-CM. Then, PDLSCs-CM was cocultured with M0 macrophages or IL-4- and IL-13-induced M2 macrophages. The level of surface markers of M1/M2 macrophages and production of several proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory factors were evaluated by flow cytometric analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The associated genes and proteins involved in the JNK pathway were investigated to explore the potential mechanism that may regulate PDLSCs-CM-mediated macrophage polarization. PDLSCs expressed MSCs markers, including STRO-1, CD146, CD90, and CD73, and were negative for CD34 and CD45, could undergo osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation when cultured in defined medium. After incubation with PDLSCs-CM, no significant increase of CD80+ and HLA-DR+ M1 macrophages was shown while evaluated CD209+ and CD206+ M2 macrophages were observed. In addition, the levels of anti-inflammatory factors such as IL-10, TGF-β, and CCL18 were increased instead of proinflammatory factors such as IL-1β, TNF-α with PDLSC-CM treatment. There was a decrease of JNK expression on M0 macrophages by qRT-PCR analysis and an increase of protein phosphorylation on M0 macrophages after incubation with PDLSCs-CM. Furthermore, as for the enhancement of IL-4- and IL-13-mediated M2 polarization by PDLSCs-CM, the mRNA level of JNK decreased, and the protein phosphorylation level of JNK increased. In addition, the treatment of JNK pathway inhibitor, SP600125, could inhibit the expression and secretion level of anti-inflammatory factor such as IL-10 in M2 polarization induced by PDLSCs-CM. Collectively, PDLSCs were able to induce M2 macrophage polarization instead of M1 polarization, and capable of enhancing M2 macrophage polarization induced by IL-4 and IL-13. The JNK pathway was involved in the promotion of M2 macrophage polarization.
Handedness impacts the neural correlates of kinesthetic motor imagery and execution: A FMRI study
Authors: Crotti Monica , Koschutnig Karl , Wriessnegger Selina Christin
Published: January 2022

The human brain functional lateralization has been widely studied over the past decades, and neuroimaging studies have shown how activation of motor areas during hand movement execution (ME) is different according to hand dominance. Nevertheless, there is no research directly investigating the effects of the participant's handedness in a motor imagery (MI) and ME task in both right and left‐handed individuals at the cortical and subcortical level. Twenty‐six right‐handed and 25 left‐handed participants were studied using functional magnetic resonance imaging during the imagination and execution of repetitive self‐paced movements of squeezing a ball with their dominant, non‐dominant, and both hands. Results revealed significant statistical difference (p < 0.05) between groups during both the execution and the imagery task with the dominant, non‐dominant, and both hands both at cortical and subcortical level. During ME, left‐handers recruited a spread bilateral network, while in right‐handers, activity was more lateralized. At the critical level, MI between‐group analysis revealed a similar pattern in right and left‐handers showing a bilateral activation for the dominant hand. Differentially at the subcortical level, during MI, only right‐handers showed the involvement of the posterior cerebellum. No significant activity was found for left‐handers. Overall, we showed a partial spatial overlap of neural correlates of MI and ME in motor, premotor, sensory cortices, and cerebellum. Our results highlight differences in the functional organization of motor areas in right and left‐handed people, supporting the hypothesis that MI is influenced by the way people habitually perform motor actions.
Prognostic analysis and establishment of a nomogram in patients with myoepithelial carcinoma of the salivary gland: A population‐based study
Authors: Liu Ying , Mi Yong , Zhang Li , Gong Qi , Jiang Tao
Published: January 2022

Background

Currently, the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of myoepithelial carcinoma of salivary gland (MC‐SG) have not been defined well. The present study aimed to describe the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of MC‐SG patients.

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was searched for all patients diagnosed with MC‐SG between 1991 and 2016. The Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank tests were used to evaluate the survival. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis were used to identify prognostic biomarkers for overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS). Furthermore, a prognostic nomogram was established, and its predictive accuracy and discriminative ability were determined using the concordance index (C‐index).

Results

In total, 245 patients diagnosed with MC‐SG were identified. The median OS was 152.0 months, with 3‐, 5‐, and 10‐year survival rates of 79.8%, 69.2%, and 50.3%. The 3‐, 5‐, and 10‐year DSS rates were 82.5%, 77.1%, and 61.9%, respectively. Regarding the treatment regimen, most patients (92.2%) underwent surgery, and 103 patients (42.4%) received postoperative radiotherapy. Surgery could significantly prolong OS and DSS (p < .05), but postoperative radiotherapy did not significantly prolong OS and DSS when compared with individuals receiving surgery alone (p > .05). Multivariate Cox analysis revealed that T category (T4), lymph node metastasis (N2), distant metastasis (M1), and poor differentiation were independent unfavorable prognostic factors for OS and DSS. Older age (>62 years) was also independently associated with OS. In addition, the C‐index for the established OS‐ and DSS‐specific nomogram was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.72–0.88) and 0.82 (95% CI: 0.73–0.90).

Conclusion

Age, tumor invasion, metastases, and pathological grade were independently associated with prognosis of MC‐SG patients, and the prognostic nomogram of this rare disease was established.
Hypoxia‐Activated Fluorescent Probe Based on Self‐Immolative Block Copolymer
Authors: Shao Kuanchun , Zhang Wenlong , Shen Jiajia , He Yaning
Published: January 2022

This work reports a hypoxia‐activated fluorescent probe for tumor imaging by using self‐immolative block copolymer with azobenzene linkage. The water‐soluble polymer composed of self‐immolative building blocks shows no obvious fluorescence. Under the hypoxic microenvironment of tumor cells, the azobenzene is reduced by the overexpressed azoreductase, which will trigger a domino‐like disassembly of the self‐immolative polymer. The released building blocks from the self‐immolative polymer emit strong fluorescence, which shows the potential application in tumor imaging.
Looking for the most suitable method for the study of entheseal changes: Application to upper limb's fibrocartilaginous entheses in a human medieval sample
Authors: Perez‐Arzak Uxue , Villotte Sébastien , Arrizabalaga Alvaro , Trancho Gonzalo J.
Published: January 2022

The study of entheseal changes (ECs), that is, osseous changes that occur at muscle attachment sites, has increased in recent years because they have been considered one of the most promising markers of activity in the human skeleton. Their aetiology is highly questioned because several factors unrelated to mechanical stress may be involved in their occurrence. Here, we test the validity of some methods created on different bases for the study of ECs to try to make an approach towards the most beneficial aspects of each method. Seven upper limbs' fibrocartilaginous entheses from a sample of 60 adult medieval individuals have been analysed employing three methods: Villotte (2006), Santana (2011) and the so‐called New Coimbra method (Henderson et al., 2016; Henderson, Mariotti, et al., 2013). These three methods have been applied on the same skeletons. The results show that the three methods seem to indicate the same general trends but with different intensity and some nuances. Santana's method always provides the most frequencies of presence and the highest scores of ECs. In turn, the Coimbra method finds the fewest scores and frequencies of ECs probably because its criteria are the most specific of the three methods. Villotte's method seems to be the one that determines the general tendencies of ECs in the clearest way. This is also evidenced by the calculated Kappa coefficients: the highest agreement is detected between Villotte's lowest scores and Santana's highest ones (k = 0.743); the moderate agreement (k = 0.596; k = 0.544) recorded between Villotte's highest scores and Coimbra's lowest indicates that the latest one registers the lowest scores of ECs between the analysed three methods. All this points to a methodological consensus that should be based on current anatomical knowledge, criteria that are intuitive and flexible, and the use of many scores of osseous expression to avoid excessive sample fragmentation.
Schiff base fluorescent hydrogel containing acylhydrazone structure and pyridine ring with multifunction
Authors: He Jinde , Yuan Ye , Tang Liuyan , Qu Jinqing
Published: January 2022

In order to prepare multifunctional fluorescent hydrogel (FH), functional Schiff base ligands have been incorporated into polymer networks. We reported here a novel multifunctional Schiff base functionalized FH, P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA), and its corresponding metallohydrogel, Zn2+‐P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA), which exhibited tunable fluorescence intensity, self‐healing ability, stretchability, and shape‐memory property. P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) was obtained by one‐pot micellar copolymerization and Zn2+‐P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) was formed by metal coordination between Schiff base ligand (PEPMA) and Zn2+. Zn2+‐P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) hydrogel was obtained after cross‐linking by the PEPMA‐Zn2+ metal coordination, whose maximum tensile strain can reach over 900%. The fluorescent intensity of Zn2+‐P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) hydrogel gradually increased with the increase of Zn2+ concentration ([Zn2+]). When [Zn2+] was 0.1 M, it could reach to 400% of the original fluorescence intensity. The reversible fluorescence change of hydrogel can be controlled by Zn2+ together with pH. What's more, the Zn2+‐P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) hydrogel has the ability to self‐heal within a minute at room temperature. The shape of the P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) hydrogel was memorized/restored by the forming/breaking the metal coordination between PEPMA and Fe3+. With above properties, P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) hydrogel and Zn2+‐P(AM‐PEGA‐PEPMA) hydrogel are expected to be applied for encryption, flexible sensors and soft wearable devices.
The dynamic basis of structural order in proteins
Authors: Konkankit Chilaluck , Rackovsky S.
Published: January 2022

We compare the sequences of folded and intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), using bioinformatic methods recently developed to study protein dynamic properties. We demonstrate that the two classes of sequences are organized in diametrically opposite ways with respect to long‐length‐scale dynamic properties. We further demonstrate a statistically significant difference between the amino acid compositions of folded and disordered proteins, which is expressed in dynamic properties. Our results indicate that the long‐length‐scale properties of sequences are critical in determining whether proteins are able to fold, and, more generally, that they are central to an understanding of protein physics. They further provide a physical basis for the empirically observed differences in amino acid composition between folded and IDPs.
Vacuolar (H+)‐ATPase subunit c is essential for the survival and systemic RNA interference response in Locusta migratoria
Authors: Shi Xuekai , Liu Xiaojian , Cooper Anastasia MW , Silver Kristopher , Merzendorfer Hans , Zhu Kun Yan , Zhang Jianzhen
Published: January 2022

Background

Vacuolar (H+)‐ATPase (V‐ATPase) is a multi‐subunit enzyme that hydrolyzes adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to transport protons across a cellular membrane, and it plays an important role in numerous biological processes, including in growth, development and immune responses. The c subunit of V‐ATPase is a highly conserved subunit of the rotatory proteolipid ring that is required for binding and transporting protons. To date, there are only a few published reports on V‐ATPase‐c functions in insects.

Results

We identified and characterized the V‐ATPase‐c gene in Locusta migratoria, one of the most destructive agricultural insect pests in the world. LmV‐ATPase‐c was predominately expressed in Malpighian tubules of nymphs, followed by the hindgut and ovary, while the other tissues showed relatively low expression levels. Silencing of LmV‐ATPase‐c caused severe molting defects in nymphs and a high mortality rate of > 90%. Histological staining and microscopic examination of sections from the abdominal cuticle revealed the absence of newly formed cuticle in nymphs that were injected with dsLmV‐ATPase‐c. In addition, silencing of LmV‐ATPase‐c transcript levels significantly impaired RNA interference (RNAi) efficiency of a reporter gene. By quantifying double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) amounts by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR), we found that RNAi against LmV‐ATPase‐c provoked a dramatic accumulation of dsRNA in the endosomes of epidermal and midgut cells of Locusta migratoria.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that LmV‐ATPase‐c is indispensable for the formation of new cuticle during the molting process and has pivotal functions in dsRNA escape from endosomes. LmV‐ATPase‐c might be a valuable target for developing new strategies for insect pest management. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Using hydro‐morphological assessment parameters to estimate the flood‐induced vulnerability of watercourses ‐ a methodological approach across three spatial scales in Germany and the Czech Republic
Authors: Garack Stephan , Ortlepp Regine
Published: January 2022

In addition to their ecological importance, rivers and streams have always been used in diverse ways by humans, resulting in the development of settlements and their connected built environments along many of the world's watercourses. During heavy rainfall, buildings, traffic infrastructure and water‐related infrastructure are exposed to potential hazards in the form of (flash) floods. In contrast to near‐natural watercourses, anthropogenically modified channels in urban areas are particularly susceptible to damage by flooding. Previous damage assessments have highlighted the need to forecast such damage to watercourses in order to identify critical areas and justify the selection and expansion of adaptation measures. Within the scope of the current study, we have developed a method based on the hydro‐morphological properties of watercourses to make transferable estimates of the economic damage potential based on ecologically‐relevant parameters. Using a scale‐specific cause‐effect analysis, we have identified characteristics of the watercourse type and adjacent structures as well as construction‐related properties of reinforcements that can increase the damage potential during flooding. In this way, we are able to show that several influencing factors determine the vulnerability of watercourses: in addition to the specific longitudinal gradient and size (macroscale) of various watercourse types, damage‐relevant boundary conditions in watercourse sections (mesoscale) and the resistance of typical bed and bank constructions are also important, reflecting the specific structural conditions. Taking rivers in Germany and the Czech Republic as case studies, in the following, we review the local identification of critical areas and describe the necessary data management. The presented “Hydro‐morphological based Vulnerability Assessment‐Concept (HyVAC)” can contribute to the flood damage prevention at watercourses by utilizing existing basic data to the greatest possible extent and thus is suitable for preliminary investigations according to the EC Flood Risk Management Directive.
Correlated geometric models of order k and its application to intensive care unit and leprosy data
Authors: de Souza Roberta , Diniz Carlos Alberto Ribeiro
Published: January 2022

Geometric models are used to analyse the discrete time until the occurrence of an event of interest (success or consecutive successes). In two real data sets, named leprosy and intensive care unit (ICU), the events correspond, respectively, to abandoning the clinical treatment of leprosy, where abandonment corresponds to four consecutive patient absences from treatment, and the patient's discharge from the ICU. The distribution proposed in this article, called the correlated geometric distribution of order k (or correlated k‐order geometric distribution), , consists of including a correlation parameter in the geometric distribution of order k, thus considering the dependence between patient responses until the occurrence of the event. This model proves to be a better option for real data analysis where the effect of individual correlation is considered. The model is applied to real leprosy data to estimate the treatment abandonment probability. Bayesian methods are used to determine the parameter estimators of the models and to evaluate regression models. The covariates are related to the probability of the event by an appropriate link function chosen by Bayesian selection criteria. A diagnostic analysis evaluates the models fit by posterior randomized quantile residuals and influential observations by ‐divergence measures. This methodology is illustrated by simulation studies and real ICU admission data analysis. Studies show a good fit of the proposed model. Real data analyses also find that the probabilities of the event of interest can be overestimated or underestimated when modeled without considering the effect of dependency on the model.
Progress in Spray Coated Perovskite Films for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Chou Li-Hui , Chan Julian M. W. , Liu Cheng-Liang
Published: January 2022

Spray coating is an emerging technique that can be used to produce large‐area functional films on various kinds of substrates. It is increasingly recognized as a state‐of‐the‐art method for fabricating perovskite films for large‐area, high throughput, and low‐cost perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and modules. Herein, the merits of spray coating and an overview on its application in recent practice are presented. Owing to the key importance of the photoabsorbing perovskite film in PSCs, how one‐ and two‐step spray coating strategies can significantly impact the film quality and overall photovoltaic performance are also discussed. The summary of the recent progress in spray coated PSCs reviewed herein will hopefully serve as a useful guide to the application of this relatively new technique for creating next‐generation perovskite‐based photovoltaics.
Evaluation of interface shear transfer strength of steel fiber‐reinforced concrete based on artificial neural network and regression method
Authors: Liu Bai
Published: January 2022

Transfer of shear strength across the concrete‐to‐concrete interface is important to the strength of reinforcement concrete structures and is extensively existing in repairing and strengthening existing reinforced concrete members, the connections between prefabricated members and the connection joints between concrete sections cast in situ. Steel fibers improve the mechanical properties of concrete and steel fiber‐reinforced concrete (SFRC) has been universally applied as the repaired materials and the connection materials in reinforced concrete structures. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the interface shear transfer (IST) strength of SFRC. One hundred twenty‐seven‐group experimental results are collected from previous studies to establish a reliable database, which the investigated parameters include the compressive strength of concrete, the diameter, length and volume friction of steel fibers, and the volumetric ratio and yield strength of shear reinforcement. Based on the established database, an artificial neural network (ANN) model is developed and the parameters sensitive is analyzed based on the proposed ANN model. Based on the parametric sensitive analysis, the linear regression model is established to evaluate the IST strength of SFRC, which is applied to evaluate the design of the concrete‐to‐concrete connections.
Suspected hyperadrenocorticism in an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus): Diagnostic approach and treatment with ketoconazole
Authors: Mercera Karl , Mellin Mathieu , Mercera Birgitta , van Elk Cornelis
Published: January 2022

A 35‐year‐old female Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) presented with lethargy, dysorexia, obesity and locomotor difficulties. An abnormal deposition of fat and superficial skin lesions was observed. Laboratory findings showed lymphopenia and eosinopenia associated with hypercholesterolemia. Endocrinological assessment revealed chronically increased serum cortisol values associated with increased plasma adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) concentration. ACTH‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism, also known as Cushing's syndrome, was strongly suspected. The bottlenose dolphin was treated with ketoconazole (2.3 mg/kg every 12 hours) and prednisone (0.03 mg/kg every 48 hours), which resulted in an improvement in clinical signs, except for obesity. Long‐term treatment with ketoconazole and prednisolone did not cause any adverse effects. However, the authors recommend avoiding concurrent hormonal treatment with altrenogest as it might cause a relapse of hyperadrenocorticism or drug–drug interaction with ketoconazole. Endocrinopathies are rare in cetaceans but this case highlights the importance of considering hyperadrenocorticism as a differential diagnosis in dolphins with obesity and skin lesions.
The digital transformation of industry and the world of work
Authors:   ILO
Published: January 2022

This chapter traces the rise of the digital economy and digital platforms, focusing on digital labour platforms in particular. It assesses the impact of such platforms on different economic sectors and labour markets, highlighting the distinctive aspects of digital labour platforms that are transforming the world of work. It gives some estimates of the number of platform companies and the number of workers whose work is mediated through these platforms based on the available literature. It also discusses the roles of data and finance in the rapid rise of these platforms, and the challenges the platforms pose to both businesses and workers.
Electroweak phase transition triggered by fermion sector
Authors: Cao Qing-Hong , Hashino Katsuya , Li Xu-Xiang , Ren Zhe , Yu Jiang-Hao
Published: January 2022

Abstract

To realize first-order electroweak phase transition, it is necessary to generate a barrier in the thermal Higgs potential, which is usually triggered by scalar degree of freedom. We instead investigate phase transition patterns in pure fermion extensions of the standard model, and find that additional fermions with mass hierarchy and mixing could develop such a barrier and realize a strongly first-order phase transition in such models. In the Higgs potential with polynomial parametrization, the barrier can be generated in the following two patterns by fermionic reduction effects: (I) positive quadratic term, negative cubic term and positive quartic term or (II) positive quadratic term, negative quartic term and positive higher dimensional term, such as dimensional 6 operator.
Dark confinement and chiral phase transitions: gravitational waves vs matter representations
Authors: Reichert Manuel , Sannino Francesco , Wang Zhi-Wei , Zhang Chen
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We study the gravitational-wave signal stemming from strongly coupled models featuring both, dark chiral and confinement phase transitions. We therefore identify strongly coupled theories that can feature a first-order phase transition. Employing the Polyakov-Nambu-Jona-Lasinio model, we focus our attention on SU(3) Yang-Mills theories featuring fermions in fundamental, adjoint, and two-index symmetric representations. We discover that for the gravitational-wave signals analysis, there are significant differences between the various representations. Interestingly we also observe that the two-index symmetric representation leads to the strongest first-order phase transition and therefore to a higher chance of being detected by the Big Bang Observer experiment. Our study of the confinement and chiral phase transitions is further applicable to extensions of the Standard Model featuring composite dynamics.
Galois orbits of TQFTs: symmetries and unitarity
Authors: Buican Matthew , Radhakrishnan Rajath
Published: January 2022

Abstract

We study Galois actions on 2+1D topological quantum field theories (TQFTs), characterizing their interplay with theory factorization, gauging, the structure of gapped boundaries and dualities, 0-form symmetries, 1-form symmetries, and 2-groups. In order to gain a better physical understanding of Galois actions, we prove sufficient conditions for the preservation of unitarity. We then map out the Galois orbits of various classes of unitary TQFTs. The simplest such orbits are trivial (e.g., as in various theories of physical interest like the Toric Code, Double Semion, and 3-Fermion Model), and we refer to such theories as unitary “Galois fixed point TQFTs”. Starting from these fixed point theories, we study conditions for preservation of Galois invariance under gauging 0-form and 1-form symmetries (as well as under more general anyon condensation). Assuming a conjecture in the literature, we prove that all unitary Galois fixed point TQFTs can be engineered by gauging 0-form symmetries of theories built from Deligne products of certain abelian TQFTs.
Gluino-SUGRA scenarios in light of FNAL muon g – 2 anomaly
Authors: Li Zhuang , Liu Guo-Li , Wang Fei , Yang Jin Min , Zhang Yang
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Gluino-SUGRA ($$ \overset{\sim }{g} $$

g
~

SUGRA), which is an economical extension of the predictive mSUGRA, adopts much heavier gluino mass parameter than other gauginos mass parameters and universal scalar mass parameter at the unification scale. It can elegantly reconcile the experimental results on the Higgs boson mass, the muon g − 2, the null results in search for supersymmetry at the LHC and the results from B-physics. In this work, we propose several new ways to generate large gaugino hierarchy (i.e. M3 » M1, M2) for $$ \overset{\sim }{g} $$

g
~

SUGRA model building and then discuss in detail the implications of the new muon g − 2 results with the updated LHC constraints on such $$ \overset{\sim }{g} $$

g
~

SUGRA scenarios. We obtain the following observations: (i) for the most interesting M1 = M2 case at the GUT scale with a viable bino-like dark matter, the $$ \overset{\sim }{g} $$

g
~

SUGRA can explain the muon g − 2 anomaly at 1σ level and be consistent with the updated LHC constraints for 6 ≤ M3/M1 ≤ 9 at the GUT scale; (ii) For M1 : M2 = 5 : 1 at the GUT scale with wino-like dark matter, the $$ \overset{\sim }{g} $$

g
~

SUGRA model can explain the muon g − 2 anomaly at 2σ level and be consistent with the updated LHC constraints for 3 ≤ M3/M1 ≤ 3.2 at the GUT scale; (iii) For M1 : M2 = 3 : 2 at the GUT scale with mixed bino-wino dark matter, the $$ \overset{\sim }{g} $$

g
~

SUGRA model can explain the muon g − 2 anomaly at 1σ level and be consistent with the updated LHC constraints for 6.9 ≤ M3/M1 ≤ 7.5 at the GUT scale. Although the choice of heavy gluino will always increase the FT involved, some of the 1σ/2σ survived points of $$ \Delta {a}_{\mu}^{\mathrm{combine}} $$
∆

a
μ
combine

can still allow low EWFT of order several hundreds and be fairly natural. Constraints from (dimension-five operator induced) proton decay are also discussed.
On BGG resolutions of unitary modules for quiver Hecke and Cherednik algebras
Authors: Bowman C. , Norton E. , Simental J.
Published: January 2022

We provide a homological construction of unitary simple modules of Cherednik and Hecke algebras of type A via BGG resolutions, solving a conjecture of Berkesch–Griffeth–Sam. We vastly generalize the conjecture and its solution to cyclotomic Cherednik and Hecke algebras over arbitrary ground fields, and calculate the Betti numbers and Castelnuovo–Mumford regularity of certain symmetric linear subspace arrangements.
First-line high-dose therapy and autologous blood stem cell transplantation in patients with primary central nervous system non-Hodgkin lymphomas—a single-centre experience in 61 patients
Authors: Brezina T. , von Dewitz H. , Schroeder T. , Ullrich S. , Nachtkamp K. , Reifenberger G. , Malzkorn B. , Sabel M. , Haas R. , Kobbe G.
Published: January 2022

Primary central nervous system non-Hodgkin lymphomas (PCNS-NHLs) are extranodal B-cell lymphomas with poor prognosis. The role of high-dose therapy (HDT) followed by autologous blood stem cell transplantation (ASCT) as first-line therapy is still not clear. We retrospectively collected long-term follow up data of 61 consecutive patients with PCNS-NHL at the University Hospital Düsseldorf from January 2004 to December 2016. Thirty-six patients were treated with conventional chemoimmunotherapy (cCIT) only (CT-group). Seventeen patients received an induction cCIT followed by HDT and ASCT. In the CT-group, the overall response rate (ORR) was 61% (CR 47%, PR 14%), and there were 8% treatment-related deaths (TRD). Progression-free survival (PFS) was 31.8 months, and overall survival (OS) was 57.3 months. In the HDT-group, the ORR was 88% (59% CR, 29% PR), and there were 6% TRD. Median PFS and OS were not reached at 5 years. The 5-year PFS and OS were 64.7%. After a median follow up of 71 months, 10 patients (59%) were still alive in CR/PR following HDT and ASCT, one patient was treated for progressive disease (PD), and 7 had died (41%, 6 PD, 1 TRD). All patients achieving CR prior to HDT achieved durable CR. In the CT-group, 8 patients (22%) were alive in CR/PR after a median follow-up of 100 months. Twenty-eight patients died (78%, 24 PD, 2 TRD, 2 deaths in remission). In the univariate analysis, the HDT-group patients had significantly better PFS (not reached vs 31.8 months, p = 0.004) and OS (not reached vs 57.3 months, p = 0.021). The multivariate analysis showed HDT was not predictive for survival. Treatment with HDT + ASCT is feasible and offers the chance for long-term survival with low treatment-related mortality in younger patients. In this analysis, ORR, PFS and OS were better with HDT than with conventional cCIT alone. This result was not confirmed in the multivariate analysis, and further studies need to be done to examine the role of HDT in PCNSL.
Prediction of procedural success of transcatheter mitral valve repair with normal and extended clip arms
Authors: Kirschfink Annemarie , Alachkar Mhd Nawar , Almalla Mohammad , Grebe Julian , Vogt Felix , Schröder Jörg , Frick Michael , Marx Nikolaus , Altiok Ertunc
Published: January 2022

TMVR using different clip sizes is a treatment option for selected patients with mitral regurgitation (MR). This study sought to identify predictors of successful transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVR) by 3-dimensional (3D) echocardiography and to compare different effects of the larger XTR and the smaller NT/NTR devices. 3D transesophageal echocardiography was performed on 54 patients with secondary MR undergoing TMVR with one clip (55.6% NT/NTR, 44.4% XTR). All NT/NTR and 96% of XTR patients had MR reduction ≤ 2+. Despite more severe baseline MR (3D vena contracta area (VCA): 0.67 ± 0.34 cm2 vs. 0.43 ± 0.19 cm2, p = 0.004) and greater mitral valve area (MVA) (6.8 ± 2.1 cm2 vs. 5.1 ± 1.6 cm2, p = 0.001) in the XTR group, MR severity after TMVR was not different between XTR and NT/NTR patients (3D VCA: 0.19 ± 0.14 vs. 0.17 ± 0.10, p = 0.51). Baseline 3D VCA > 0.45 cm2 in NT/NTR (AUC = 0.802, 95% CI 0.602 to 1.000) and 3D VCA > 0.54 cm2 in XTR devices (AUC = 0.868, 95% CI 0.719 to 1.000) were associated with ineffective MR reduction defined as residual VCA ≤ 0.2 cm2. Baseline MVA ≤ 4.2 cm2 in NT/NTR (AUC = 0.920, 95% CI 0.809 to 1.000) and MVA ≤ 6.0 cm2 in XTR devices (AUC = 0.865, 95% CI 0.664 to 1.000) were associated with postprocedural transmitral pressure gradient (TMPG) ≥ 5 mmHg. TMVR using the XTR device resulted in an equally effective reduction of MR despite of a greater baseline MR. Distinct cut-off values of baseline 3D VCA and MVA for prediction of successful MR reduction and postprocedural increase of TMPG were identified for the different devices.
BRCA1 Norway: comparison of classification for BRCA1 germline variants detected in families with suspected hereditary breast and ovarian cancer between different laboratories
Authors: Hovland Henrikke N. , Al-Adhami Rafal , Ariansen Sarah Louise , Van Ghelue Marijke , Sjursen Wenche , Lima Sigrid , Bolstad Marte , Berger Amund H. , Høberg-Vetti Hildegunn , Knappskog Per , Haukanes Bjørn Ivar , Aukrust Ingvild , Ognedal Elisabet
Published: January 2022

Pathogenic germline variants in Breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) predispose carriers to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). Through genetic testing of patients with suspected HBOC an increasing number of novel BRCA1 variants are discovered. This creates a growing need to determine the clinical significance of these variants through correct classification (class 1–5) according to established guidelines. Here we present a joint collection of all BRCA1 variants of class 2–5 detected in the four diagnostic genetic laboratories in Norway. The overall objective of the study was to generate an overview of all BRCA1 variants in Norway and unveil potential discrepancies in variant interpretation between the hospitals, serving as a quality control at the national level. For a subset of variants, we also assessed the change in classification over a ten-year period with increasing information available. In total, 463 unique BRCA1 variants were detected. Of the 126 variants found in more than one hospital, 70% were interpreted identically, while 30% were not. The differences in interpretation were mainly by one class (class 2/3 or 4/5), except for one larger discrepancy (class 3/5) which could affect the clinical management of patients. After a series of digital meetings between the participating laboratories to disclose the cause of disagreement for all conflicting variants, the discrepancy rate was reduced to 10%. This illustrates that variant interpretation needs to be updated regularly, and that data sharing and improved national inter-laboratory collaboration greatly improves the variant classification and hence increases the accuracy of cancer risk assessment.
Cross Second Virial Coefficient of the H2O–CO System from a New Ab Initio Pair Potential
Authors: Hellmann Robert
Published: January 2022

The cross second virial coefficient $$B_{12}$$

B
12

for the interaction between water (H2O) and carbon monoxide (CO) was obtained with low uncertainty at temperatures from 200 K to 2000 K employing a new intermolecular potential energy surface (PES) for the H2O–CO system. This PES was fitted to interaction energies determined for about 58 000 H2O–CO configurations using high-level quantum-chemical ab initio methods up to coupled cluster with single, double, and perturbative triple excitations [CCSD(T)]. The cross second virial coefficient $$B_{12}$$

B
12

was extracted from the PES using a semiclassical approach. An accurate correlation of the calculated $$B_{12}$$

B
12

values was used to determine the dilute gas cross isothermal Joule–Thomson coefficient, $$\phi _{12}=B_{12}-T(\mathrm {d}B_{12}/\mathrm {d}T)$$

ϕ
12

=

B
12

-
T

(
d

B
12

/
d
T
)

. The predicted values for both $$B_{12}$$

B
12

and $$\phi _{12}$$

ϕ
12

agree reasonably well with the few existing experimental data and older calculated values and should be the most accurate estimates of these quantities to date.
Sustainable behavior in motion: designing mobile eco-driving feedback information systems
Authors: Gimpel Henner , Heger Sebastian , Wöhl Moritz
Published: January 2022

Emissions from road traffic contribute to climate change. One approach to reducing the carbon footprint is providing eco-driving feedback so that drivers adapt their driving style. Research about the impact of eco-feedback on energy consumption is the basis for designing a mobile eco-driving feedback information system that supports drivers in reducing fuel consumption. This work develops design knowledge from existing knowledge. Subsequently, we implement a prototypical instantiation based on the derived knowledge. Insights from a field study suggest that our design artifact allows most drivers to decrease fuel consumption by 4% on average. The paper’s theoretical contribution is a set of design principles and an architecture of the proposed mobile eco-driving feedback information system. One recommendation is to provide normative feedback that compares drivers with each other. This feedback appears to encourage drivers to decrease their fuel consumption additionally. The design knowledge may support researchers and practitioners in implementing efficient eco-driving feedback information systems.
Preparation of medical Mg–Zn alloys and the effect of different zinc contents on the alloy
Authors: Hu Yunpeng , Guo Xuan , Qiao Yang , Wang Xiangyu , Lin Qichao
Published: January 2022

In recent years, along with the development and application of magnesium alloys, magnesium alloys have been widely used in automotive, aerospace, medicine, sports, and other fields. In the field of medical materials, magnesium not only has the advantage of light weight, high strength, and a density similar to that of human bone, but also has good biocompatibility and promotes the growth of human bone. However, the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of magnesium alloys need to be further improved to meet the requirements for human biodegradable implants. In this study, three alloys (mass fractions: Mg–10Zn, Mg–20Zn, and Mg–30Zn (wt.%)) were prepared using powder metallurgy by homogeneously mixing powders of the above materials in a certain amount with magnesium as the substrate through the addition of zinc elements, which also have good biocompatibility. The effect of zinc on the microstructure, mechanical properties, wear performance, and corrosion resistance of magnesium–zinc alloys was studied when the zinc content was different. The results show that compared with the traditional magnesium alloy using powder metallurgy, prepared magnesium alloy has good resistance to compression and bending, its maximum compressive stress can reach up to 318.96 MPa, the maximum bending strength reached 189.41 MPa, and can meet the mechanical properties of the alloy as a human bone-plate requirements. On the polarization curve, the maximum positive shift of corrosion potential of the specimens was 73 mv and the maximum decrease of corrosion-current density was 53.2%. From the comparison of the above properties, it was concluded that the three prepared alloys of which Mg–20% Zn had the best overall performance. Its maximum compressive stress, maximum bending strength, and corrosion-current density reached 318.96 MPa, 189.41 MPa and 2.08 × 10−5 A·cm−2 respectively, which are more suitable for use as human implant bone splints in human-body fluid environment.
The Structure of the Brachial Plexus of the Djungarian Hamster (Phodopus sungorus)
Authors: Grzeczka Arkadiusz , Zdun Maciej
Published: January 2022

Hamsters are often chosen as companion animals but are also a group of animals frequently subjected to laboratory tests. As there are no scientific publications providing information on the anatomical architecture of the brachial plexus of the Djungarian hamster, this study analyses the structure of this part of the nervous system of this species. It is important to know the details of this structure not only for cognitive reasons, but also due to the increasing clinical significance of rodents, which are often used in scientific research. The study was conducted on 55 specimens. Like in humans, the brachial plexus of the Djungarian hamster has three trunks. The following individual nerves innervating the thoracic limb of the Djungarian hamster: the radial nerve, median nerve, ulnar nerve, musculocutaneous nerve, axillary nerve, suprascapular nerve, thoracodorsal nerve, cranial pectoral nerves, caudal pectoral nerve, lateral thoracic nerve, long thoracic nerve, and subscapular nerves. Similarly to other mammals of this order, the brachial plexus of the Djungarian hamster ranges widely (C5-T1). However, its nerves are formed from different ventral branches of the spinal nerves than in other mammals.
Correction to: How life cycle–based science and practice support the transition towards a sustainable economy
Authors: Stucki Matthias , Jattke Marleen , Berr Marcus , Desing Harald , Green Ashley , Hellweg Stefanie , Laurenti Rafael , Meglin Ronny , Muir Karen , Pedolin Dario , Shinde Rhythima , Welz Tobias , Keller Regula Lisa
Published: January 2022

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11367-021-01930-0
Association of Vitamin D Status and COVID-19-Related Hospitalization and Mortality
Authors: Seal Karen H. , Bertenthal Daniel , Carey Evan , Grunfeld Carl , Bikle Daniel D. , Lu Chuanyi M.
Published: January 2022

Background

The relationship between vitamin D status and COVID-19-related clinical outcomes is controversial. Prior studies have been conducted in smaller, single-site, or homogeneous populations limiting adjustments for social determinants of health (race/ethnicity and poverty) common to both vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 outcomes.

Objective

To evaluate the dose-response relationship between continuous 25(OH)D and risk for COVID-19-related hospitalization and mortality after adjusting for covariates associated with both vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19 outcomes.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Patients

Veteran patients receiving care in US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) health care facilities with a positive severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) test and a blood 25(OH)D test between February 20, 2020, and November 8, 2020, followed for up to 60 days.

Main Measures

Exposure was blood 25(OH)D concentration ascertained closest to and within 15 to 90 days preceding an index positive SARS-CoV-2 test. Co-primary study outcomes were COVID-19-related inpatient hospitalization requiring airborne, droplet, contact, or other isolation and mortality ascertained within 60 days of an index positive SARS-CoV-2 test.

Key Results

Of 4,599 veterans with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test, vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) was identified in 665 (14.5%); 964 (21.0%) were hospitalized; and 340 (7.4%) died. After adjusting for all covariates, including race/ethnicity and poverty, there was a significant independent inverse dose-response relationship between increasing continuous 25(OH)D concentrations (from 15 to 60 ng/mL) and decreasing probability of COVID-19-related hospitalization (from 24.1 to 18.7%, p=0.009) and mortality (from 10.4 to 5.7%, p=0.001). In modeling 25(OH)D as a log-transformed continuous variable, the greatest risk for hospitalization and death was observed at lower 25(OH)D concentrations.

Conclusions

Continuous blood 25(OH)D concentrations are independently associated with COVID-19-related hospitalization and mortality in an inverse dose-response relationship in this large racially and ethnically diverse cohort of VA patients. Randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the impact of vitamin D supplementation on COVID-19-related outcomes.
Sample management: a primary critical starting point for successful omics studies
Authors: Koh Eun Jung , Kim Seung Hwan , Hwang Seung Yong
Published: January 2022

Biological samples collected from cohort studies are widely utilized in molecular genetic studies and are typically stored long term for future applications, such as omics analyses. The extent of sample availability is determined by proper sample handling, and it is of primary importance for successful omics studies. However, questions on whether samples in long-term storage are properly available for omics experiments has been raised, because the quality and availability of such samples remain unknown until their actual utilization. In that perspective, several guidelines for proper sample management have been suggested. In addition, several researchers assessed how improper management damages sample using mock sample and suggested a set of requirements for sample handling. In this review, we present several considerations for sample handling eligible for omics studies. Focusing on birth cohorts, we describe the types of samples collected from which omics data were generated. This review ultimately aims to provide proper guidelines for sample handling for successful human omics studies.