bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The imaginary part of the heavy-quark potential from real-time Yang-Mills dynamics
Authors: Boguslavski Kirill , Kasmaei Babak S. , Strickland Michael
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We extract the imaginary part of the heavy-quark potential using classical-statistical simulations of real-time Yang-Mills dynamics in classical thermal equilibrium. The r-dependence of the imaginary part of the potential is extracted by measuring the temporal decay of Wilson loops of spatial length r. We compare our results to continuum expressions obtained using hard thermal loop theory and to semi-analytic lattice perturbation theory calculations using the hard classical loop formalism. We find that, when plotted as a function of mDr, where mD is the hard classical loop Debye mass, the imaginary part of the heavy-quark potential shows little sensitivity to the lattice spacing at small mDr ≲ 1 and agrees well with the semi-analytic hard classical loop result. For large quark-antiquark separations, we quantify the magnitude of the non-perturbative long-range corrections to the imaginary part of the heavy-quark potential. We present our results for a wide range of temperatures, lattice spacings, and lattice volumes. This work sets the stage for extracting the imaginary part of the heavy-quark potential in an expanding non-equilibrium Yang Mills plasma.
Investigating top tagging with Ym-Splitter and N-subjettiness
Authors: Dasgupta Mrinal , Helliwell Jack
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We study top-tagging from an analytical QCD perspective focussing on the role of two key steps therein: a step to find three-pronged substructure and a step that places constraints on radiation. For the former we use a recently introduced modification of Y-Splitter, known as Ym-Splitter, and for the latter we use the well-known N-subjettiness variable. We derive resummed results for this combination of variables for both signal jets and background jets, also including pre-grooming of the jet. Our results give new insight into the performance of top tagging tools in particular with regard to the role of the distinct steps involved.
Self-organised localisation
Authors: Giudice Gian F. , McCullough Matthew , You Tevong
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We describe a new phenomenon in quantum cosmology: self-organised localisation. When the fundamental parameters of a theory are functions of a scalar field subject to large fluctuations during inflation, quantum phase transitions can act as dynamical attractors. As a result, the theory parameters are probabilistically localised around the critical value and the Universe finds itself at the edge of a phase transition. We illustrate how self-organised localisation could account for the observed near-criticality of the Higgs self-coupling, the naturalness of the Higgs mass, or the smallness of the cosmological constant.
Genome-wide mRNA profiling identifies X-box-binding protein 1 (XBP1) as an IRE1 and PUMA repressor
Authors: Gebert Magdalena , Sobolewska Aleksandra , Bartoszewska Sylwia , Cabaj Aleksandra , Crossman David K. , Króliczewski Jarosław , Madanecki Piotr , Dąbrowski Michał , Collawn James F. , Bartoszewski Rafal
Published: October 2021

Accumulation of misfolded proteins in ER activates the unfolded protein response (UPR), a multifunctional signaling pathway that is important for cell survival. The UPR is regulated by three ER transmembrane sensors, one of which is inositol-requiring protein 1 (IRE1). IRE1 activates a transcription factor, X-box-binding protein 1 (XBP1), by removing a 26-base intron from XBP1 mRNA that generates spliced XBP1 mRNA (XBP1s). To search for XBP1 transcriptional targets, we utilized an XBP1s-inducible human cell line to limit XBP1 expression in a controlled manner. We also verified the identified XBP1-dependent genes with specific silencing of this transcription factor during pharmacological ER stress induction with both an N-linked glycosylation inhibitor (tunicamycin) and a non-competitive inhibitor of the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA) (thapsigargin). We then compared those results to the XBP1s-induced cell line without pharmacological ER stress induction. Using next‐generation sequencing followed by bioinformatic analysis of XBP1-binding motifs, we defined an XBP1 regulatory network and identified XBP1 as a repressor of PUMA (a proapoptotic gene) and IRE1 mRNA expression during the UPR. Our results indicate impairing IRE1 activity during ER stress conditions accelerates cell death in ER-stressed cells, whereas elevating XBP1 expression during ER stress using an inducible cell line correlated with a clear prosurvival effect and reduced PUMA protein expression. Although further studies will be required to test the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in the relationship between these genes with XBP1, these studies identify a novel repressive role of XBP1 during the UPR.
Evaluierung der NEF-Fehl- und Übergabeeinsätze im Raum Innsbruck
Authors: Troppmair Teresa , Egger J. , Krösbacher A. , Zanvettor A. , Schinnerl A. , Neumayr A. , Baubin M.
Published: October 2021

Hintergrund

Die Qualität eines Rettungssystems zeichnet sich auch durch den effizienten Einsatz seiner personellen und Fahrzeugressourcen aus. So können im berechtigten Fall Stornierungen des anfahrenden Notarztes durch den Rettungsdienst (RD) ebenso sinnvoll sein wie Übergaben des stabilen Patienten an den RD. Aufgrund der hohen Zahlen solcher Storno- und Übergabeeinsätze evaluiert diese Studie diese Entscheidungen retrospektiv und zeigt evtl. Auffälligkeiten auf. Studienkollektiv waren die 10.278 Notarztalarmierungen der beiden Notarzteinsatzfahrzeuge (NEF) Innsbruck Stadt (städtisch) und Telfs (ländlich) der Jahre 2017 und 2018.

Methode

Der Patientenzustand sowie die Rettungsdienstdokumentation wurden beurteilt und die Notarztindikation retrospektiv anhand der klinischen Aufnahmediagnosen im Abgleich mit dem Notarztindikationskataloges der Deutschen Bundesärztekammer (NIKDBÄK) anhand vorgegebener Kriterien wie eingegebener Vitalparameter und/oder des Notfallgeschehens bewertet.

Ergebnisse

Im zweijährigen Studienzeitraum ergaben sich 2470 relevante Datensätze, davon 1190 Storno- und 1280 Übergabeeinsätze mit gesamt 210 Einsätzen (8,5 %) mit Notarztindikation laut NIKDBÄK. Am NEF Innsbruck fanden mehr Stornierungen statt, und es kam zu mehr Storno- als Übergabeeinsätzen, umgekehrt dazu am NEF Telfs zu mehr Übergabe- als Stornoeinsätzen. An Wochenenden fanden nachts weniger Storno- und Übergabeeinsätze statt. In 284 Protokollen bei Stornierungen (23,9 %) und 339 Protokollen bei Übergaben (26,5 %) war die Dokumentation der Sanitäterprotokolle unvollständig. Patienten mit gegebener Notarztindikation laut NIKDBÄK mussten länger stationär behandelt werden. 35 Patienten nach Storno- (2,9 %) und 35 Patienten nach Übergabeeinsätzen (2,7 %) mussten auf einer Intensivstation aufgenommen werden. Bei den Intensivbehandlungen wurde bei 20 Patienten (1,7 % der Stornoeinsätze) nach einem Stornoeinsatz eine kritische Aufnahmediagnose festgestellt bzw. bei 24 Patienten (1,9 % der Übergabeeinsätze) nach einem Übergabeeinsatz. Bei 40 (3,1 %) Übergabeeinsätzen vom Notarzt an den Rettungsdienst kam es innerhalb von 10 min nach Eintreffen des Notarztes zu einem Folgeeinsatz.

Schlussfolgerung

Die Einführung eines eigenen standardisierten Notfallindikationskataloges für Österreich erscheint als Vorgabe für Leitstellen und Rettungsdienstpersonal sinnvoll. Storno- und Übergabeentscheidungen müssen sorgsam getroffen werden und sollten QM-gesichert evaluiert werden. Der Dokumentationspflicht im Rettungswesen muss vermehrte Aufmerksamkeit gewidmet werden. Durch intensivere Aus- und Fortbildungen sowie Diagnosefeedbacks könnte die Anzahl an unberechtigten bzw. risikobehafteten Storno‑/Übergabeeinsätzen vermindert werden.
Reduced magnetic resonance angiography signal intensity in the middle cerebral artery ipsilateral to severe carotid stenosis may be a practical index of high oxygen extraction fraction
Authors: Mori Takahisa , Yoshioka Kazuhiro , Tanno Yuhei , Kasakura Shigen , Miyazaki Yuichi
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Angiographic “slow flow” in the middle cerebral artery (MCA), caused by carotid stenosis, may be associated with high oxygen extraction fraction (OEF). If the MCA slow flow is associated with a reduced relative signal intensity (rSI) of the MCA on MR angiography, the reduced rSI may be associated with a high OEF. We investigated whether the MCA slow flow ipsilateral to carotid stenosis was associated with a high OEF and aimed to create a practical index to estimate the high OEF.

Methods

We included patients who underwent digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and MRA between 2015 and 2019 to evaluate carotid stenosis. MCA slow flow by image count using DSA, MCA rSI, minimal luminal diameter (MLD) of the carotid artery, carotid artery stenosis rate (CASr), and whole-brain OEF (wb-OEF) was evaluated. When MCA slow flow was associated with a high wb-OEF, the determinants of MCA slow flow were identified, and their association with high wb-OEF was evaluated.

Results

One hundred and twenty-seven patients met our inclusion criteria. Angiographic MCA slow flow was associated with high wb-OEF. We identified MCA rSI and MLD as determinants of angiographic MCA slow flow. The upper limits of MCA rSI and MLD for angiographic MCA slow flow were 0.89 and 1.06 mm, respectively. The wb-OEF was higher in patients with an MCA rSI ≤ 0.89 and ipsilateral MLD ≤ 1.06 mm than patients without this combination.

Conclusions

The combination of reduced MCA rSI and ipsilateral narrow MLD is a straightforward index of high wb-OEF.

Key Points

• The whole-brain OEF in patients with angiographic slow flow in the MCA ipsilateral to high-grade carotid stenosis was higher than in patients without it.

• Independent determinants of MCA slow flow were MCA relative signal intensity (rSI) on MRA or minimal luminal diameter (MLD) of the carotid stenosis.

• The wb-OEF was higher in patients with an MCA rSI ≤ 0.89 and ipsilateral MLD ≤ 1.06 mm than patients without this combination.
Diffusion kurtosis imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI for the differentiation of parotid gland tumors
Authors: Huang Nan , Chen Yu , She Dejun , Xing Zhen , Chen Tanhui , Cao Dairong
Published: October 2021

Objective

To assess the usefulness of combined diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) in the differentiation of parotid gland tumors.

Methods

Seventy patients with 80 parotid gland tumors who underwent DKI and DCE-MRI were retrospectively enrolled and divided into four groups: pleomorphic adenomas (PAs), Warthin tumors (WTs), other benign tumors (OBTs), and malignant tumors (MTs). DCE-MRI and DKI quantitative parameters were measured. The Kruskal–Wallis H test and post hoc test with Bonferroni correction and ROC curve were used for statistical analysis.

Results

WTs demonstrated the highest Kep value (median 1.89, interquartile range [1.46–2.31] min−1) but lowest Ve value (0.20, [0.15–0.25]) compared with PAs (Kep, 0.34 [0.21–0.55] min−1; Ve, 0.36 [0.24–0.43]), OBTs (Kep, 1.22 [0.27–1.67] min−1; Ve, 0.28 [0.25–0.41]), and MTs (Kep, 0.71 [0.50–1.23] min−1; Ve, 0.35 [0.26–0.45]) (all p < .05). MTs had the lower D value (1.10, [0.88–1.29] × 10−3 mm2/s) compared with PAs (1.81, [1.60–2.20] × 10−3 mm2/s) and OBTs (1.57, [1.32–1.89] × 10−3 mm2/s) (both p < .05). PAs had the lower Ktrans value (0.12, [0.07–0.18] min−1) compared with OBTs (0.28, [0.11–0.50] min−1) (p < .05). The cutoff values of combined Kep and Ve, D, and Ktrans to distinguish WTs, MTs, and PAs sequentially were 1.06 min−1, 0.28, 1.46 × 10−3 mm2/s, and 0.21 min−1, respectively (accuracy, 89% [71/80], 91% [73/80], 78% [62/80], respectively).

Conclusion

The combined use of DKI and DCE-MRI may help differentiate parotid gland tumors.

Key Points

• The combined use of DKI and DCE-MRI could facilitate the understanding of the pathophysiological characteristics of parotid gland tumors.

• A stepwise diagnostic diagram based on the combined use of DCE-MRI parameters and the diffusion coefficient is helpful for accurate preoperative diagnosis in parotid gland tumors and may further facilitate the clinical management of patients.
Disparate effects of ankle-brachial index on mortality in the ‘very old’ and ‘younger old’ populations-the PolSenior survey
Authors: Królczyk Jarosław , Skalska Anna , Piotrowicz Karolina , Mossakowska Małgorzata , Grodzicki Tomasz , Gąsowski Jerzy
Published: October 2021

To assess the relationship between ankle-brachial index (ABI) and up to 10-year mortality in older individuals below and above the age of 80 years. In a multicenter survey of health status in the community dwelling subjects aged 55–59 and 65 + years in Poland, we assessed baseline medical history including risk-factors. We measured ABI, and serum creatinine, cholesterol, NT-proBNP, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentrations. We assessed mortality based on public registry. Between 2009 and 2019, 27.3% of 561 participants < 80 years, and 79.4% of 291 participants ≥ 80 years, died (p < 0.001); 67.8, 41.5, and 40.3% in the ABI groups < 0.9, 0.9–1.4, and > 1.4, respectively (p < 0.01). In the unadjusted Cox models, ABI was associated with mortality in the entire group, and < 80 years. In the entire group, analysis adjusted for age and sex showed mortality risk increased by 11% per year, and 50% with male sex. Mortality decreased by 37% per 1 unit ABI increase. In the group of people ≥ 80 years, only age was significantly associated with mortality (p < 0.001). In stepwise regression ABI < 0.9, male sex, active smoking, and NT-proBNP level were associated with risk of death < 80 years. In the ≥ 80 years old, mortality risk was associated with older age, and higher levels of IL-6, but not ABI. The ABI < 0.9 is associated with higher mortality in older people, but not among the oldest-old. In the oldest age group, age is the strongest predictor of death. In this age group, inflammageing is of importance.
Cost-minimisation analysis of a treat-and-extend regimen with anti-VEGFs in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Quist S. W. , de Jong L. A. , van Asten F. , Knoester P. , Postma M. J. , Freriks R. D.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Although intraocular anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGFs) are effective as treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), the (economic) burden on the healthcare system is considerable. A treat-and-extend (T&E) regimen is associated with a lower number of injections without compromising the effectiveness and can therefore help optimise nAMD treatment. This study investigates the per-patient costs associated with nAMD treatment, when using aflibercept, bevacizumab, or ranibizumab with a T&E regimen.

Methods

In this cost-minimisation model, the per-patient costs in the Netherlands were modelled using a healthcare payers’ perspective over a 3-year time horizon with the assumption that efficacy of treatments is similar. Additionally, the break-even price of the different anti-VEGFs was calculated relative to the cheapest option and injection frequency.

Results

The injection frequency varied from 14.2 for aflibercept to 27.4 for bevacizumab in 3 years. Nonetheless, bevacizumab remains the cheapest treatment option (€14,215), followed by aflibercept (€18,202) and ranibizumab (€31,048). The medication covers the majority of the per-patient costs for aflibercept and ranibizumab, while administration covers the majority of the per-patient costs for bevacizumab. The break-even prices of aflibercept and ranibizumab are respectively €507 and €60.58 per injection. Brolucizumab was included in the scenario analysis and was more expensive than aflibercept (€20,446). Brolucizumab should reduce to 13.8 injections over 3 years to be as costly as aflibercept.

Conclusion

Bevacizumab is the cheapest anti-VEGF treatment. The list prices of all anti-VEGFs should reduce to be as costly as bevacizumab. Aflibercept is the second-choice treatment and so far brolucizumab is not.
Health and life insurance-related problems in very long-term cancer survivors in Germany: a population-based study
Authors: Thong Melissa S. Y. , Doege Daniela , Weißer Linda , Koch-Gallenkamp Lena , Bertram Heike , Eberle Andrea , Holleczek Bernd , Nennecke Alice , Waldmann Annika , Zeissig Sylke Ruth , Pritzkuleit Ron , Schlander Michael , Brenner Hermann , Arndt Volker
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Limited research suggests that cancer survivors have problems with insurance. Our study aimed to gain insight into the proportion of very long-term (14–24 years post-diagnosis) survivors of breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers who had problems with health (HI) and life (LI) insurance.

Methods

We used data from CAESAR (CAncEr Survivorship—A multi-Regional population-based study). Participants completed questions on change in insurance providers since cancer diagnosis, problems with requesting (additional) HI or LI, and how potential problems were resolved. We conducted logistic regression to determine factors associated with change in statutory HI.

Results

Of the 2714 respondents, 174 (6%) reported having changed HI providers. Most switched between different statutory HI providers (86%), 9% from statutory to private, and 5% from private to statutory. Respondents who changed statutory HI providers were more likely to be prostate cancer survivors (OR 2.79, 95% CI 1.01–7.68) while being ≥ 65 years at time of diagnosis (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.35–0.96) and having ≥ 2 comorbid conditions (OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.40–0.92) were associated with reduced odds for change. Problems in changing HI were minimal and were resolved with additional contribution. Of the 310 respondents who tried to get LI, 25 respondents reported having difficulties, of whom the majority had their request rejected.

Conclusion

Most cancer survivors did not change their HI nor tried to buy LI after cancer diagnosis. Problems with changing statutory HI were generally resolved with additional contribution while the main problem encountered when buying LI was rejection of request.
Distress and quality of life do not change over time in patients with operated and conservatively managed intracranial meningioma
Authors: Kalasauskas Darius , Keric Naureen , Abu Ajaj Salman , von Cube Leoni , Ringel Florian , Renovanz Mirjam
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The patients’ burden with asymptomatic meningiomas and patients with good clinical outcome after meningioma resection often remains neglected. In this study, we aimed to investigate the longitudinal changes of psychological distress and quality of life in these patient groups.

Methods

Patients with conservatively managed (CM) or operated (OM) meningiomas and excellent neurological status, who were screened for psychological distress during the follow-up visit (t1), were included. We performed a follow-up mail/telephone-based survey 3–6 months (t2) after t1. Distress was measured using Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Distress Thermometer (DT), 36-item Short Form (SF-36), and Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI).

Results

Sixty-two patients participated in t1 and 47 in t2. The number of patients reporting increased or borderline values remained high 3 months after initial presentation, with n = 25 (53%) of patients reporting increased anxiety symptom severity and n = 29 (62%) reporting increased depressive symptom severity values. The proportion of distressed patients according to a DT score remained similar after 3 months. Forty-four percent of patients reported significant distress in OM and 33% in CM group. The most common problems among distressed patients were fatigue (t2 75%) and worries (t2 50%), followed by pain, sleep disturbances, sadness, and nervousness. Tumor progress was associated with increased depression scores (OR 6.3 (1.1–36.7)).

Conclusion

The level of psychological distress in asymptomatic meningiomas and postoperative meningiomas with excellent outcome is high. Further investigations are needed to identify and counsel the patients at risk.
Farmers’ action space to adopt sustainable practices: a study of arable farming in Saxony
Authors: Gütschow Malin , Bartkowski Bartosz , Felipe-Lucia María R.
Published: October 2021

The urgency to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and natural resource degradation requires major changes in agricultural practices. Agricultural policy in Germany has so far failed to generate such changes; meanwhile, public demands for new regulations are met by widespread farmers’ protests. Against this background, an improved understanding of the factors influencing farmers’ uptake of sustainable agricultural practices is necessary. This study introduces the concept of action space to analyze the role of barriers to change which lie beyond farmers’ perceived immediate control. We apply this conceptual framework to the case of diversified crop rotations in Saxony (Germany) and combine semi-structured interviews and a survey to identify key barriers to change and their relative weights. We find that farmers feel rather strongly restricted in their action space to implement diversified crop rotations for sustainable agriculture. The most important barriers pertain to the market environment, which severely limits the feasibility of many crops. In addition, limited regulatory predictability as well as regulatory incoherence and limited flexibility restrict farmers in their action space. The role of resource availability within the farm businesses as well as availability and accessibility of knowledge is ambiguous between interview and survey results. The analysis of interactions indicates that multiple barriers form a self-reinforcing system in which farmers perceive to have little leeway to implement sustainable practices. These results emphasize the need to create an enabling market and regulatory environment in which sustainable practices pay off.
Potentiometric back titration as a robust and simple method for specific surface area estimation of lignocellulosic fibers
Authors: Serra-Parareda Ferran , Aguado Roberto , Tarrés Quim , Mutjé Pere , Delgado-Aguilar Marc
Published: October 2021

The specific surface area (SSA) of cellulosic or lignocellulosic fibers is seldom reported in the recent literature on papermaking, despite its close relation with the degree of refining and other key pulp properties. Amidst outdated assays (Pulmac permeability test) and methods that, while accurate, are of doubtful usefulness for papermaking purposes (N2adsorption–desorption), we suggest a methodology based on the cationic demand. A commonly used cationic polyelectrolyte, poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC), became adsorbed onto thermomechanical pulp samples. Then, a potentiometric back titration with an anionic polyelectrolyte measured the cationic demand, expressed as microequivalents of PDADMAC per gram of pulp. Multiplying this value by the surface area of a microequivalent of polymer, considering rod-like conformation in the case of minimum ionic strength, yielded the SSA of the lignocellulosic pulp. Our system assumes that the quaternary ammonium groups were anchored through electrostatic and ion–dipole interactions. Measuring the carboxyl content allowed for discriminating between both kinds of forces. Finally, the model could be validated by plotting the estimated SSA values against the Schopper-Riegler degree, attaining high correlation coefficients (R2 ~ 0.98). Owing to the high molecular weight of the polyelectrolyte of choice (107 kDa), and more particularly in the case of fine-free pulps, SSA values estimated from the cationic demand were consistently lower than those from dye (Congo red) sorption. Instead of being a drawback, the limited diffusion of PDADMAC through fibers can enable papermakers to attain a more helpful quantification of the available surfaces in operations with low residence times.
On the extraordinary low quench sensitivity of an AlZnMg alloy
Authors: Rowolt Christian , Milkereit Benjamin , Springer Armin , Mihara-Narita Mami , Yoshida Hideo , Yamashita Kenya , Oldenburg Kevin , Kessler Olaf
Published: October 2021

The scope of this work was to investigate the quench sensitivity of a high-purity wrought aluminum alloy Al6Zn0.75 Mg (in this work called 7003pure). This is compared to a similar alloy with the additions of Fe, Si, and Zr at a sum less than 0.3 at.% (in this work called 7003Fe,Si,Zr). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used for an in situ analysis of quench induced precipitation in a wide range of cooling rates varying between 0.0003 and 3 K/s. In 7003pure, three main precipitation reactions were observed during cooling, a medium temperature reaction with a distinct double peak between 325 and 175 °C and a very low temperature reaction starting at about 100 °C. An additional high temperature reaction related to the precipitation of Mg2Si starting at 425 °C has been observed for 7003Fe,Si,Zr. In terms of hardness after natural as well as artificial aging, alloy 7003pure shows a very low quench sensitivity. Hardness values on the saturation level of about 120 HV1 are seen down to cooling rates of 0.003 K/s. The as-quenched hardness (5 min of natural aging) shows a maximum at a cooling rate of 0.003 K/s, while slower and faster cooling results in a lower hardness. In terms of hardness after aging, 0.003 K/s could be defined as the technological critical cooling rate, which is much higher for 7003Fe,Si,Zr (0.3–1 K/s). The physical critical cooling rates for the suppression of any precipitation during cooling were found to be about 10 K/s for both variants.
Parental Happiness Associates With the Co-occurrence of Preschool-Aged Children’s Healthy Energy Balance-Related Behaviors
Authors: Engberg Elina , Ray Carola , Määttä Suvi , Figueiredo Rejane A. O. , Leppänen Marja H. , Pajulahti Riikka , Koivusilta Leena , Korkalo Liisa , Nissinen Kaija , Vepsäläinen Henna , Sajaniemi Nina , Erkkola Maijaliisa , Roos Eva
Published: October 2021

We examined whether parental happiness associate with preschoolers’ healthy energy balance-related behaviors (EBRBs) and with the co-occurrence of multiple healthy EBRBs. This cross-sectional study included 647 pairs of parents (88% mothers) and children (mean age 4.7, SD 0.9 years). Parents completed the Subjective Happiness Scale. In addition, ActiGraph accelerometers measured children’s physical activity, and parents reported screen time and food consumption on behalf of their children. We defined four healthy EBRBs: meeting physical activity guidelines; meeting screen time guidelines; a higher consumption of vegetables, fruits and berries; and a lower consumption of sugary foods, treats and drinks. Parental happiness scores did not associate with children’s healthy EBRBs when each behavior was analyzed separately. However, parents with higher happiness scores were more likely to have a child with 2 or 3–4 healthy EBRBs than a child with 0–1 healthy EBRBs. To conclude, parents who are happier have children with multiple healthy EBRBs. Targeting parental wellbeing should be considered when promoting children’s healthy EBRBs.
Normalisation and subformula property for a system of intuitionistic logic with general introduction and elimination rules
Authors: Kürbis Nils
Published: October 2021

This paper studies a formalisation of intuitionistic logic by Negri and von Plato which has general introduction and elimination rules. The philosophical importance of the system is expounded. Definitions of ‘maximal formula’, ‘segment’ and ‘maximal segment’ suitable to the system are formulated and corresponding reduction procedures for maximal formulas and permutative reduction procedures for maximal segments given. Alternatives to the main method used are also considered. It is shown that deductions in the system convert into normal form and that deductions in normal form have the subformula property.
Identification of plant materials containing ephedrine alkaloids based on DNA barcoding and TaqMan real-time PCR assay
Authors: Zheng Yaqin , Gao Han , Song Ming , Lin Yunhan , Fan Jiajia , Zhang Yaqin , Liu Xia
Published: October 2021

An intentional or inadvertent mixing of plant materials containing ephedrine alkaloids, especially Ephedra, is illegal. In order to better detect plant materials containing ephedrine alkaloids in export and smuggling, DNA barcoding combined with a TaqMan real-time PCR-based assay were used in this study. We collected 201 samples from 18 species belonging to four genera distributed in three families to amplify two barcoding markers, internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) and psbA-trnH. 175 ITS2 sequences and 136 psbA-trnH sequences were obtained. Alignments and the neighbor-joining tree indicated that ITS2 showed a better discrimination of species than psbA-trnH. In addition, based on the sequence comparison of the ITS2 region from 18 species, three sets of primer/probes were designed using the real-time PCR assay platform. A sensitivity test showed the above primer/probe sets were specific and sensitive (as little as 0.0050 ng/μL target DNA) to identify species containing ephedrine alkaloids. Hence, the combination of novel DNA barcoding and the TaqMan real-time PCR-based technique are promising tools for the identification of plant materials containing ephedrine alkaloids. It is beneficial to standardize market circulation and detection of plant materials containing ephedrine alkaloids.
The effect of landscape on Cucurbita pepo-pollinator interaction networks varies depending on plants’ genetic diversity
Authors: Landaverde-González Patricia , Enríquez Eunice , Núñez-Farfán Juan
Published: October 2021

In recent years, evidence has been found that plant-pollinator interactions are altered by land-use and that genetic diversity also plays a role. However, how land-use and genetic diversity influence plant–pollinator interactions, particularly in the Neotropics, where many endemic plants exist is still an open question.Cucurbita pepois a monoecious plant and traditional crop wide distributed, with high rates of molecular evolution, landraces associated with human cultural management and a history of coevolution with bees, which makes this species a promising model for studying the effect of landscape and genetic diversity on plant-pollinator interactions. Here, we assess (1) whether female and male flowers differences have an effect on the interaction network, (2) how C. pepogenetic diversity affects flower-bee visitation network structure, and (3) what is the effect that land-use, accounting forC. pepogenetic variability,has on pumpkin-bee interaction network structure. Our results indicate that female and male flowers presented the same pollinator community composition and interaction network structure suggesting that female/male differences do not have a significant effect on network evolution. Genetic diversity has a positive effect on modularity, nestedness and number of interactions. Further, the effect of semi-natural areas on nestedness could be buffered when genetic diversity is high. Our results suggest that considering genetic diversity is relevant for a better understanding of the effect of land-use on interaction networks. Additionally, this understanding has great value in conserving biodiversity and enhancing the stability of interaction networks in a world facing great challenges of habitat and diversity loss.
The Treasury of Wharton's Jelly
Authors: Guenther Rebecca , Dreschers Stephan , Maassen Jessika , Reibert Daniel , Skazik-Voogt Claudia , Gutermuth Angela
Published: October 2021

Background

Postnatal umbilical cord tissue contains valuable mesenchymal progenitor cells of various differentiation stages. While mesenchymal stem cells are plastic-adherent and tend to differentiate into myofibroblastic phenotypes, some round cells detach, float above the adherent cells, and build up cell aggregates, or form spheroids spontaneously. Very small luminescent cells are always involved as single cells or within collective forms and resemble the common well-known very small embryonic-like cells (VSELs). In this study, we investigated these VSELs-like cells in terms of their pluripotency phenotype and tri-lineage differentiation potential.

Methods

VSELs-like cells were isolated from cell-culture supernatants by a process that combines filtering, up concentration, and centrifugation. To determine their pluripotency character, we measured the expression of Nanog, Sox-2, Oct-4, SSEA-1, CXCR4, SSEA-4 on gene and protein level. In addition, the cultured cells derived from UC tissue were examined regarding their potential to differentiate into three germ layers.

Result

The VSELs-like cells express all of the pluripotency-associated markers we investigated and are able to differentiate into meso- endo- and ectodermal precursor cells.

Conclusions

Umbilical cord tissue hosts highly potent VSELs-like stem cells.

Graphical Abstract
Implizite Fähigkeitstheorien, akademisches Selbstkonzept und schulisches Wohlbefinden
Authors: Lüftenegger Marko , Holzer Julia , Schober Barbara
Published: October 2021

Implizite Fähigkeitstheorien haben hohe Relevanz für Lernverhalten und Leistung von Schüler*innen. Diese Effekte werden in kognitiven Bedeutungssystemen durch selbstbezogene Kompetenzeinschätzungen vermittelt. Neben Lernverhalten und Leistung rückte als weiteres zentrales Ziel von Schule und Unterricht in den letzten Jahren auch zunehmend schulisches Wohlbefinden in den Fokus. Studien zu Zusammenhängen von Impliziten Theorien und Wohlbefinden sind jedoch rar. Vorhandene Arbeiten betrachteten Wohlbefinden dabei überwiegend als die Abwesenheit von pathologischen Merkmalen, während neuere Ansätze das Vorhandensein von Ressourcen und die Multidimensionalität von Wohlbefinden im Jugendalter betonen. Ein solches Modell ist das EPOCH-Modell welches die Dimensionen Engagement, Perseverance, Optimism, Connectedness und Happiness unterscheidet.

Die vorliegende Studie untersucht Zusammenhänge zwischen inkrementellen Impliziten Fähigkeitstheorien, akademischem Selbstkonzept und Wohlbefinden von Schüler*innen. Wohlbefinden wird dabei als kontextspezifisches Konstrukt – adaptiert an den Schulkontext – durch die fünf EPOCH Dimensionen operationalisiert.

Die Stichprobe der Fragebogenstudie umfasste 1484 österreichische Schüler*innen (52 % weiblich; M = 12,95; SD = 2,10) aus 87 Klassen. Zur Untersuchung der Zusammenhänge wurde ein latentes Mediationsmodell mit inkrementeller Fähigkeitstheorie als unabhängiger Variable, Selbstkonzept als Mediator und Wohlbefinden als abhängiger Variable spezifiziert. Die Ergebnisse zeigten positive Zusammenhänge von inkrementeller Fähigkeitstheorie mit Selbstkonzept sowie mit allen fünf EPOCH Dimensionen. Die Effekte von inkrementeller Fähigkeitstheorie auf Engagement, Perseverance und Optimism werden durch das Selbstkonzept mediiert. Limitationen dieser Studie sowie Implikationen für Theorie, Praxis und zukünftige Forschung werden diskutiert.
Capture of aqueous radioiodine species by metallated adsorbents from wastestreams of the nuclear power industry: a review
Authors: Robshaw Thomas J. , Turner Joshua , Kearney Sarah , Walkley Brant , Sharrad Clint A. , Ogden Mark D.
Published: October 2021

Iodine-129 poses a significant challenge in the drive towards lowering radionuclide emissions from used nuclear fuel recycling operations. Various techniques are employed for capture of gaseous iodine species, but it is also present, mainly as iodide anions, in problematic residual aqueous wastestreams, which have stimulated research interest in technologies for adsorption and retention of the radioiodine. This removal effort requires specialised adsorbents, which use soft metals to create selectivity in the challenging chemical conditions. A review of the literature, at laboratory scale, reveals a number of organic, inorganic and hybrid adsorbent matrices have been investigated for this purpose. They are functionalised principally by Ag metal, but also Bi, Cu and Pb, using numerous synthetic strategies. The iodide capacity of the adsorbents varies from 13 to 430 mg g−1, with ion-exchange resins and titanates displaying the highest maximum uptakes. Kinetics of adsorption are often slow, requiring several days to reach equilibrium, although some ligated metal ion and metal nanoparticle systems can equilibrate in < 1 h. Ag-loaded materials generally exhibit superior selectivity for iodide verses other common anions, but more consideration is required of how these materials would function successfully in industrial operation; specifically their performance in dynamic column experiments and stability of the bound radioiodine in the conversion to final wasteform and subsequent geological storage.

Article highlights

Metallated adsorbents for the capture and retention of radioiodine in the nuclear industry are assessed.

The strengths and weaknesses of organic, inorganic and hybrid support matrices and loading mechanisms are discussed.

Pathways for progression of this technology are proposed.

Graphic abstract
Air entrapment and its effect on pressure impulses in the slamming of a flat disc on water
Authors: Jain Utkarsh , Vega-Martínez Patricia , van der Meer Devaraj
Published: October 2021

The presence of ambient air in liquid-slamming events plays a crucial role in influencing the shape of the liquid surface prior to the impact, and the distribution of loads created upon impact. We study the effect of trapped air on impact loads in a simplified geometry, by slamming a horizontal flat disc onto a stationary water bath at a well-controlled velocity. We show how air trapping influences pressure peaks at different radial locations on the disc, how the pressure impulses are affected and how local pressure impulses differ from those obtained from area-integrated (force) impulses at impact. More specifically, we find that the air layer causes a gradual buildup of the load before the peak value is reached, and show that this buildup follows inertial scaling. Further, the same localised pressure impulse at the disc centre is found to be lower than the corresponding (area-integrated) force impulse on the entire disc. While the (area-integrated) force impulses are close to the classical result of Batchelor (An Introduction to Fluid Dynamics, Cambridge University Press, 1967, § 6.10) and Glasheen & McMahon (Phys. Fluids, vol. 8, issue 8, 1996, pp. 2078–2083), the localised pressure impulses at the disc centre, where the trapped air layer is at its thickest, lie closer to the theoretical estimation by Peterset al.(J. Fluid Mech., vol. 724, 2013, pp. 553–580) for an air-cushioned impact.
Expected length and probability of winning a tennis game
Authors: Cooper Curtis , Kennedy Robert E.
Published: October 2021

The game of tennis has provided mathematicians with many interesting problems. In [1], the problem of finding the probability that a certain player wins a tennis tournament was studied. Gale [2] determined the best serving strategy in tennis. First, we assume Alice and Bob play a game of tennis using the standard (or Deuce/Ad) scoring system, without a tiebreaker, and that Alice serves the game. We also assume that the probability that Alice wins any point she serves is . Stewart [3] proved that the probability that Alice wins is

$${{15{p^4} - 34{p^5} + \;28{p^6} - 8{p^7}} \over {1 - 2p\; + \;2{p^2}}}$$
.
Shade lichens are characterized by rapid relaxation of non-photochemical quenching on transition to darkness
Authors: Beckett Richard P. , Minibayeva Farida V. , Mkhize Kwanele W. G.
Published: October 2021

Non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) plays an important role in protecting photosynthetic organisms from photoinhibition by dissipating excess light energy as heat. However, excess NPQ can greatly reduce the quantum yield of photosynthesis at lower light levels. Recently, there has been considerable interest in understanding how plants balance NPQ to ensure optimal productivity in environments in which light levels are rapidly changing. In the present study, chlorophyll fluorescence was used to study the induction and relaxation of non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) in the dark and the induction of photosynthesis in ten species of lichens, five sampled from exposed and five sampled from shaded habitats. Here we show that the main difference between sun and shade lichens is the rate at which NPQ relaxes in the dark, rather than the speed that photosynthesis starts upon illumination. During the first two minutes in the dark, NPQ values in the five sun species declined only by an average of 2%, while by contrast, in shade species the average decline was 40%. For lichens growing in microhabitats where light levels are rapidly changing, rapid relaxation of NPQ may enable their photobionts to use the available light most efficiently.
Blame and coercion: Together again for the first time
Authors: SIEK JEREMY G. , THIEMANN PETER , WADLER PHILIP
Published: October 2021

C#, Dart, Pyret, Racket, TypeScript, VB: many recent languages integrate dynamic and static types via gradual typing. We systematically develop four calculi for gradual typing and the relations between them, building on and strengthening previous work. The calculi are as follows:

$\lambda{B}$

, based on the blame calculus of Wadler and Findler (2009);

$\lambda{C}$

, inspired by the coercion calculus of Henglein (1994);

$\lambda{S}$

inspired by the space-efficient calculus of Herman, Tomb, and Flanagan (2006); and

$\lambda{T}$

based on the threesome calculus of Siek and Wadler (2010). While

$\lambda{B}$

and

$\lambda{T}$

are little changed from previous work,

$\lambda{C}$

and

$\lambda{S}$

are new. Together,

$\lambda{B}$

,

$\lambda{C}$

,

$\lambda{S}$

, and

$\lambda{T}$

provide a coherent foundation for design, implementation, and optimization of gradual types. We define translations from

$\lambda{B}$

to

$\lambda{C}$

, from

$\lambda{C}$

to

$\lambda{S}$

, and from

$\lambda{S}$

to

$\lambda{T}$

. Much previous work lacked proofs of correctness or had weak correctness criteria; here we demonstrate the strongest correctness criterion one could hope for, that each of the translations is fully abstract. Each of the calculi reinforces the design of the others:

$\lambda{C}$

has a particularly simple definition, and the subtle definition of blame safety for

$\lambda{B}$

is justified by the simple definition of blame safety for

$\lambda{C}$

. Our calculus

$\lambda{S}$

is implementation-ready: the first space-efficient calculus that is both straightforward to implement and easy to understand. We give two applications: first, using full abstraction from

$\lambda{C}$

to

$\lambda{S}$

to establish an equational theory of coercions; and second, using full abstraction from

$\lambda{B}$

to

$\lambda{S}$

to easily establish the Fundamental Property of Casts, which required a custom bisimulation and six lemmas in earlier work.
Making a Mark: Process, Pattern and Change in the British and Irish Neolithic
Authors: Jones Andrew Meirion , Díaz-Guardamino Marta
Published: October 2021

This paper presents key results of theMaking a Markproject (2014–2016), which aimed to provide a contextual framework for the analysis of mark making on portable artefacts in the British and Irish Neolithic by comparing them with other mark-making practices, including rock art and passage tomb art. The project used digital imaging techniques, including Reflectance Transformation Imaging (RTI), and improved radiocarbon chronologies, to develop a new understanding of the character of mark making in the British and Irish Neolithic. Rather than considering this tradition in representational terms, as expression of human ideas, we focus on two kinds of relational material practices, the processes of marking and the production of skeuomorphs, and their emergent properties. We draw on Karen Barad's concept of ‘intra-action’ and Gilles Deleuze's notion of differentiation to understand the evolution and development of mark-making traditions and how they relate to other kinds of social practices over the course of the Neolithic.
The Phonostate at the End of History: Language, Nation, and a Scheme for World Peace in Edwardian South Africa
Authors: Ossa-Richardson Anthony
Published: October 2021

This article tells the story of the eccentric and unknown writer Albert William Alderson (1880–1963), a British South African office clerk whose father had helped found the De Beers diamond mining corporation with Cecil Rhodes. Alderson, despite having no academic background, wrote two books and several pamphlets arguing that world peace could be achieved by eliminating all the languages in the world other than English; he buttressed this claim with an elaborate account of the causes of war taken from his reading in world history, but also with extraordinary statements on the relation of language to personal agency. Although Alderson's arguments cannot be taken seriously, they are illuminating as an example of “naïve” liberalism pushed to its limit; that is, as a case-study in heterodoxy comparable to Carlo Ginzburg's Menocchio. I conclude by suggesting that his work helped inspire one influential reader—C. K. Ogden, the founder of Basic English.
The effects of vitamins and dietary pattern on epigenetic modification of non-communicable diseases
Authors: Khajebishak Yaser , Alivand Mohammadreza , Faghfouri Amir Hossein , Moludi Jalal , Payahoo Laleh
Published: October 2021

Abstract: Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have received more attention because of high prevalence and mortality rate. Besides genetic and environmental factors, the epigenetic abnormality is also involved in the pathogenesis of NCDs. Methylation of DNA, chromatin remodeling, modification of histone, and long non-coding RNAs are the main components of epigenetic phenomena. Methodology: In this review paper, the mechanistic role of vitamins and dietary patterns on epigenetic modification was discussed. All papers indexed in scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Google Scholar, and Elsevier were searched during 2000 - 2021 using, vitamins, diet, epigenetic repression, histones, methylation, acetylation, and NCDs as keywords. Results: The components of healthy dietary patterns like Mediterranean and dietary approaches to stop hypertension diets have a beneficial effect on epigenetic hemostasis. Both quality and quantity of dietary components influence epigenetic phenomena. A diet with calorie deficiency in protein content and methyl-donor agents in a long time, with a high level of fat, disrupts epigenetic hemostasis and finally, causes genome instability. Also, soluble and insoluble vitamins have an obvious role in epigenetic modifications. Most vitamins interact directly with methylation, acetylation, and phosphorylation pathways of histone and DNA. However, numerous indirect functions related to the cell cycle stability and genome integrity have been recognized. Conclusion: Considering the crucial role of a healthy diet in epigenetic homeostasis, adherence to a healthy dietary pattern containing enough levels of vitamin and avoiding the western diet seems to be necessary. Having a healthy diet and consuming the recommended dietary level of vitamins can also contribute to epigenetic stability.