bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unbound: The Relationship Among Creativity, Moral Foundations, and Dark Personality
Authors: Kapoor Hansika , Kaufman James C.
Published: October 2021

Creativity, and more recently dark creativity, have yet to be studied in relation to moral foundations, especially against the background of dark traits. This study identified moral foundations that predicted creativity, particularly malevolent creativity, after accounting for Dark Triad/Tetrad traits. Data (N = 529, Mage = 20.10 years, SD = 4.55) on self‐reported creativity, personality, and moral foundations were collected. Results indicated that lower concerns for binding foundations (loyalty, authority, and purity) explained creativity, especially malevolent creativity. In contrast, higher concern for individualizing foundations (care and fairness) predicted creativity, whereas lower regard for these morals predicted malevolent creativity. Planned mediations indicated that lower concerns for all foundations explained greater malevolent creativity due to higher dark personality dispositions. Limitations and implications are discussed.
Gene Therapy for Polyglutamine Spinocerebellar Ataxias: Advances, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Vázquez‐Mojena Yaimeé , León‐Arcia Karen , González‐Zaldivar Yanetza , Rodríguez‐Labrada Roberto , Velázquez‐Pérez Luis
Published: October 2021

Polyglutamine spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) comprise a heterogeneous group of six autosomal dominant ataxias caused by cytosine–adenine–guanine repeat expansions in the coding region of single genes. Currently, there is no curative or disease‐slowing treatment for these disorders, but their monogenic inheritance has informed rationales for development of gene therapy strategies. In fact, RNA interference strategies have shown promising findings in cellular and/or animal models of SCA1, SCA3, SCA6, and SCA7. In addition, antisense oligonucleotide therapy has provided encouraging proofs of concept in models of SCA1, SCA2, SCA3, and SCA7, but they have not yet progressed to clinical trials. On the contrary, the gene editing strategies, such as the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR/Cas9), have been introduced to a limited extent in these disorders. In this article, we review the available literature about gene therapy in polyglutamine SCAs and discuss the main technological and ethical challenges toward the prospect of their use in future clinical trials. Although antisense oligonucleotide therapies are further along the path to clinical phases, the recent failure of three clinical trials in Huntington's disease may delay their utilization for polyglutamine SCAs, but they offer lessons that could optimize the likelihood of success in potential future clinical studies. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
TA organizations supporting MH workforce during pandemic
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2021

As the pandemic continues to bring about structural changes in the public mental health sector, including a shift to telehealth and financial strain for community mental health organizations and clinicians — not to mention a risk of burnout among clinicians and staff — technical assistance (TA) organizations have supported community mental health providers in adapting to these changes, an opinion piece in the October issue of Psychiatric Services stated.
Intralayer synchronization in a duplex network with noise
Authors: Zhuang Jinsen , Zhou Yan , Xia Yonghui
Published: October 2021

This paper concerns the impact of environmental noise on the intralayer synchronization of the duplex networks. A duplex network contains two layers. Different from the previous works (Tang et al., 2018; Shen & Tang, 2018), environmental noise is introduced into the dynamical system of the duplex network. We incorporate both the interlayer delay and the intralayer delay into the dynamical system. Both of the delays are time‐varying. However, Tang et al. (2018) only considered the intralayer delays, and they were assumed as constants, while Shen and Tang (2018) did not consider the interlayer delay or intralayer delay. When the system does not achieve automatic intralayer synchronization, we introduce two controllers: one is the state‐feedback controller and the other is the adaptive state‐feedback controller. Interestingly, we find that the intralayer synchronization will be achieved automatically if the interlayer coupling strength is large enough and the intralayer coupling strength is small enough under the situation that the time‐varying interlayer delays are absent. Finally, some interesting simulation results are obtained for the Chua–Chua chaotic system withapplication of our theoretic results, which show the feasibility and effectiveness of our control schemes.
Monitor unit prediction model for wobbling proton therapy with ridge filters
Authors: Jo Kwanghyun , Chung Eunah , Han Youngyih , Ahn Sung Hwan , Sheen Heesoon , Cho Sungkoo
Published: October 2021

Purpose

We introduced an output factor (cGy/MU) prediction model for wobbling proton beams over the full range of proton energy, scatterer thickness, and the width of spread‐out Bragg peak (SOBP).

Materials and methods

From December 2015 to August 2020, 1990 wobbling proton fields were used to treat patients, where 1714 fields had a diameter smaller than 11 cm and 276 had a diameter between 11 and 16 cm, which were designated as small and middle wobbling radius cases, respectively. The output factor is defined as the ratio of proton absorbed dose at mid‐depth of SOBP to monitor unit (MU). It depends dominantly on proton energy, scatterer thickness, and the width of SOBP. We established the prediction model using the polynomial fitting function and determined its coefficients for the small and middle wobbling radius cases. We evaluated the accuracy of our prediction model by calculating the difference between predicted and measured output factors.

Results

For the small wobbling radius cases, the mean value of the output factor difference was 0.22% with a standard deviation of 1.3%. For the middle wobbling radius cases, the mean value was 0.20% and with a standard deviation of 0.79%. The large deviation was especially observed for wobbling proton beams having small field size and small width of SOBP.

Conclusions

We made a prediction model of output factor for wobbling proton beams, thereby determining MU of each beam. This included the dependency of the output factor on the proton energy between 70 and 230 MeV, scatterer thickness, and the width of SOBP. For 93.6% of the small and 95.5% of the middle wobbling radius cases, the deviation between predicted and measured output factor was below 3%. The cases with deviations of predicted and measured output factor above 3% had small field size and small width of SOBP. The accuracy of our prediction model would be improved by adopting the field size effect and measuring more cases of small field size and small SOBP width in the future.
Inositol supplementation and body mass index: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Zarezadeh Meysam , Dehghani Azadeh , Faghfouri Amir Hossein , Radkhah Nima , Naemi Kermanshahi Mohammad , Hamedi Kalajahi Fatemeh , Mohammadzadeh Honarvar Niyaz , Ghoreishi Zohreh , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Ebrahimi Mamaghani Mehrangiz
Published: October 2021

Background

Inositol is a sugar‐alcohol and recognized as a key component of cell membrane phospholipids. It has crucial role in the cell signaling pathways and contribute to improving glycemic responses. Although some earlier studies have revealed the effect of inositol mediating glucose uptake by improving insulin sensitivity, the benefit of inositol supplementation in patients with overweight and obesity is not completely understood. This study aimed to assess the impact of inositol supplementation on body mass index (BMI) through a systematic review and meta‐analysis of controlled clinical trials.

Methods

A systematic search was performed to August 2021 in the following databases: PubMed‐Medline, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus. Fifteen controlled clinical trials investigating the effect of inositol on adult's BMI were finally included in the study. A random‐effects model was employed to estimate the effect size. Subgroup analysis was performed by dose, duration, age, type of inositol. Meta‐regression was used to investigate presence of any linear relationship. Begg's and Egger's tests were carried out to detect small study effect.

Results

The results of pooled analysis showed that inositol supplementation significantly decreased BMI scores (WMD = −0.41 kg/m2; 95% CI: −0.78, −0.04;p = 0.028). Subgroup analysis was performed to identify the source of heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 73.9%,p < 0.001), demonstrating supplementation duration, baseline BMI, mean age of participants, type of inositol and dosage were potential sources of heterogeneity. The effect of intervention was more clinically significant in participants with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and overweight/obesity. Inositol in the form of myo‐inositol (MI) had stronger effect on BMI reduction.

Conclusion

The meta‐analysis suggests that oral inositol supplementation has positive effect on BMI reduction. Inositol supplementation could be considered as an adjunct treatment to improve body mass index.
Smartphone interactions and nature benefits: How predominant approaches picture social life and ways of advancing this work
Authors: Hitchings Russell , Maller Cecily
Published: October 2021

Whether new technologies will have a positive impact on how societies experience nature depends on how particular devices and populations come to interact.

This paper reviews two bodies of work that have sought to understand and influence these interactions with reference to the smartphone.

The first is associated with a group of researchers interested in how smartphone apps might help people to engage with their surroundings in beneficial ways.

The second comes from a set of scholars hoping to learn from the analysis of the social media datasets associated with smartphone interactions outdoors.

After comparing these how these two bodies commonly see the social world, the paper considers how other approaches might augment these endeavours.

We argue for more studies that explore what different social groups have to say about life with the smartphone and how norms of technology use emerge.

We also suggest that this area of research might engage more fully with wider academic work on how smartphones are reshaping our societies.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Novel itaconic acid‐based superabsorbent polymer with improved gel strength and salt resistance using 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid
Authors: Kwon Yong Rok , Kim Hae Chan , Kim Jung Soo , Chang Young‐Wook , Kim Dong Hyun
Published: October 2021

The synthesis of novel superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) based on itaconic acid (IA) and 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid (AMPS) is described for application in personal hygiene products such as disposable diapers. The AMPS is introduced to improve the low absorption performance of the existing IA‐based SAPs. The salt‐resistant properties of AMPS are shown to improve the absorption performance of SAP with respect to aqueous salt solutions. Further, the high ionization constant of the sulfonic acid group of AMPS contributes to the increase of the centrifugation retention capacity (CRC) of the SAP. Meanwhile, the amide group of AMPS improves the gel strength of the SAP by forming hydrogen bonds between the polymer chains. This increase in gel strength is demonstrated by the enhanced absorbency under load (AUL) and rheological analysis. The degree of neutralization affect the absorption properties of SAP, and the SAP exhibits maximum CRC and AUL of 57.3 and 14.4 g/g at 60% neutralization, respectively. As a crosslinking agent content increased, AUL increased but CRC significantly decreased. Additionally, soil pH evaluation confirms that SAP do not cause soil acidification.
Universal and cross‐cancer prognostic biomarkers for predicting survival risk of cancer patients from expression profile of apoptotic pathway genes
Authors: Arora Chakit , Kaur Dilraj , Raghava Gajendra P. S.
Published: October 2021

Numerous cancer‐specific prognostic models have been developed in the past, wherein one model is applicable for only one type of cancer. In this study, an attempt has been made to identify universal or multi‐cancer prognostic biomarkers and develop models for predicting survival risk across different types of cancer patients. In order to accomplish this, we gauged the prognostic role of mRNA expression of 165 apoptosis‐related genes across 33 cancers in the context of patient survival. Firstly, we identified specific prognostic biomarker genes for 30 cancers. The cancer‐specific prognostic models achieved a minimum Hazard Ratio, HRSKCM = 1.99 and maximum HRTHCA = 41.59. Secondly, a comprehensive analysis was performed to identify universal biomarkers across many cancers. Our best prognostic model consisted of 11 genes (TOP2A, ISG20, CD44, LEF1, CASP2, PSEN1, PTK2, SATB1, SLC20A1, EREG, and CD2) and stratified risk groups across 27 cancers (HROV = 1.53‐HRUVM = 11.74). The model was validated on eight independent cancer cohorts and exhibited a comparable performance. Further, we clustered cancer‐types on the basis of shared survival related apoptosis genes. This approach proved helpful in development of cross‐cancer prognostic models. To show its efficacy, a prognostic model consisting of 15 genes was thereby developed for LGG‐KIRC pair (HRKIRC = 3.27, HRLGG = 4.23). Additionally, we predicted potential therapeutic candidates for LGG‐KIRC high risk patients.
CCCTC‐binding factor transcriptionally regulates Galectin‐7 and activates the JNK/STAT3 axis to aggravate bronchial epithelial cell injury
Authors: Sun Xinrong , Shen Wenna , Li Zhaokun , Zhang Wanggang
Published: October 2021

Objective

Studies have shown that the expression of CCCTC‐binding factor (CTCF) is significantly upregulated in the airway epithelial cells of asthmatic patients, suggesting that CTCF may play an important role in the progression of asthma.

Material/Methods

Human bronchial epithelial cells BEAS‐2B were stimulated with transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) at a concentration of 10 ng/ml, and CTCF overexpression plasmid and CTCF small interfering RNA were transfected into the cells. The proliferation, apoptosis, inflammatory factor secretion, and airway remodeling marker protein expression of injured cells were detected. We bidirectionally regulated Galectin‐7 expression in TGF‐β1‐induced BEAS‐2B cells and overexpress CTCF, while interfering with Galectin‐7 to further explore the regulatory effect of CTCF on Galectin‐7. We introduced SP600125, a c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase c‐Jun (JNK) pathway inhibitor, to investigate whether CTCF affects asthma progression through the JNK pathway.

Results

The expression of CTCF in BEAS‐2B cells induced by TGF‐β1 was significantly upregulated, interfering with CTCF expression promoted cell proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, reduced inflammatory factors secretion, and decreased the expression of airway remodeling marker protein. Luciferase reporter gene analysis and chromatin immunoprecipitation verified that CTCF directly bound to Galectin‐7 promoter. The effect of Galectin‐7 on cells is consistent with the effect of CTCF on cells. The regulatory effect of CTCF on injured cells was indeed mediated by activation of the JNK/STAT3 axis.

Conclusions

CTCF transcriptionally regulated Galectin‐7 and activated JNK/STAT3 axis to aggravate bronchial epithelial cell injury.
Motivation for science learning as an antecedent of emotions and engagement in preservice elementary teachers
Authors: Membiela Pedro , Vidal Manuel , Fragueiro Sandra , Lorenzo María , García‐Rodeja Isabel , Aznar Virginia , Bugallo Anxela , González Antonio
Published: October 2021

Several variables associated with motivation toward science learning in preservice elementary teachers, such as relevance to personal goals and self‐efficacy, are important factors in preservice preparation. The main objective is to analyze the relationships of these motivational variables with the emotions of boredom and enjoyment, and with engagement in science learning. Data were obtained with a self‐report questionnaire completed by 871 preservice elementary teachers and analyzed using the structural equation model (SEM) methodology. The first step determined the adequacy of the measurement model and, in the second step, SEM showed that the variables associated with motivation for science learning significantly predicted the variance of boredom and enjoyment as 27% and 52%, respectively. The variables associated with motivation for science learning and emotions explained 67% of the variance in science learning engagement. Relevance to personal goals and self‐efficacy in science learning predicted the emotional variables. Emotional variables mediated the impact of motivational variables in science‐learning engagement. The fundamental role of emotions in motivation and science‐learning engagement in preservice elementary teachers is observed.
NIR Laser‐Treatment, Anti‐Oxidation Upconversion Nanoparticles for Optical Temperature Sensing
Authors: Bai Yandong , Li Yuemei , Wang Rui , Li Yongmei
Published: October 2021

Rare earth ions doped upconversion nanoparticles have a good potential in optical temperature sensing. Herein, a series of ZnO : Yb/Tm/Ga are prepared, which realize the last sensitization. ZnO semiconductor host is sensitized under 980 nm excitation at power 0.6 W. The upconversion luminescence (UCL) intensity of sample increase about ∼15 times compared with pre‐sensitization. The colors of UCL change from blue to yellow with the excitation powers from 0.20 W to 1.05 W, realizing the multi‐color turning. Temperature‐sensing properties based on Stark levels and non‐thermally coupled energy levels (NTECLs) of Tm3+ are analyzed. The maximum relative sensitivity (Sr) of temperature sensor reaches 44.37 %K−1 at 693 K, which originated from 1G4 (652 nm) and 3F2,3 (700 nm) of Tm3+. The energy gap between the energy level 1G4 and 3F2,3 of Tm3+ is about ∼1217 cm−1, which suggest that they are thermally coupled. Moreover, ZnO : Yb/Tm/Ga@SiO2 have no damage to the liver, indicating that UCNPs has a low biological toxicity. The ZnO : Yb/Tm/Ga@SiO2 core/shell upconversion nanoparticles can be used in temperature sensors and biological temperature sensing.
Competitive Wetting: A New Approach to Prevent Liquid Penetration through Porous Materials with Superior Synergistic Effect
Authors: Ding Jie , Kearney James , Wang Hongxia , Tian Tongfei , Rutledge Gregory C. , Lin Tong , Wang Xiaolin
Published: October 2021

Blocking liquid penetration in porous materials is a key function for several applications including chemical protective clothing (CPC), wound healing, and hygiene products. Enormous efforts are made to prevent liquid penetration through porous media by the modification of materials. CPC is used as an example to demonstrate the effect of the synergistic effect on liquid penetration. A common strategy to achieve liquid protection is the use of liquid‐repellent surfaces with the aid of a liquid absorption liner layer. However, this strategy demonstrates limited success for low surface energy liquids. Herein, a novel approach is reported to prevent the permeation of liquid across porous materials by a synergistic effect. Both fabrics are individually susceptible to be wetted by low surface tension liquids. However, when they are assembled, they can prevent low surface tension liquids from penetrating because of the wettability gap between the two fabrics. The fabric assembly demonstrates an increase in the liquid prevention capacity by 70–1000 times compared with a commercial CPC material. This novel synergistic effect may offer a breakthrough in the development of various applications including protective clothing baby nappies, hygiene products, food preparation, soil water retention, and sporting/camping/ski equipment and clothing.
Machine Learning in Screening High Performance Electrocatalysts for CO2 Reduction
Authors: Zhang Ning , Yang Baopeng , Liu Kang , Li Hongmei , Chen Gen , Qiu Xiaoqing , Li Wenzhang , Hu Junhua , Fu Junwei , Jiang Yong , Liu Min , Ye Jinhua
Published: October 2021

Converting CO2 into carbon‐based fuels is promising for relieving the greenhouse gas effect and the energy crisis. However, the selectivity and efficiency of current electrocatalysts for CO2 reductions are still not satisfactory. In this paper, the development of machine learning methods in screening CO2 reduction electrocatalysts over the recent years is reviewed. Through high‐throughput calculation of some key descriptors such as adsorption energies, d‐band center, and coordination number by well‐constructed machine learning models, the catalytic activity, optimal composition, active sites, and CO2 reduction reaction pathway over various possible materials can be predicted and understood. Machine learning is now realized as a fast and low‐cost method to effectively explore high performance electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction.
Gram‐Scale Synthesis of Nanosized Li3HoBr6 Solid Electrolyte for All‐Solid‐State Li‐Se Battery
Authors: Shi Xiaomeng , Zeng Zhichao , Zhang Hongtu , Huang Bolong , Sun Mingzi , Wong Hon Ho , Lu Qiuyang , Luo Wei , Huang Yunhui , Du Yaping , Yan Chun‐Hua
Published: October 2021

Rare earth (RE) based halide solid electrolytes (HEs) are recently considered as research hotspots in the field of all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs). The RE‐based HEs possess high ionic conductivity, credible deformability, and good stability, which can bring excellent electrochemical performances for ASSBs. However, the conventional synthetic methods of RE HEs are a mechanochemical process and co‐melting strategy, both approaches require expensive raw materials and sophisticated equipment. Therefore, a lot of research work is required to promote the preparation methods for these promising SSEs in ASSBs. Thus, a vacuum evaporation‐assisted synthesis method is developed for the massive synthesis of HEs. The as‐prepared Li3HoBr6 (LHB) has a high lithium‐ion conductivity close to the mS cm−1 level and the LHB‐based Li‐Se ASSBs can be assembled by cold pressing. Theoretical calculations have revealed that the Li migrations are highly preferred in Li3HoBr6 owing to the low energy cost and high tolerance of stable structure. The tetrahedral and octahedral pathways are responsible for Li migrations in short and long ranges, respectively. The results show that the LHB‐based Li‐Se battery has good stability and rate performance, indicating that LHB has potential application in the field of ASSBs.
Covid‐19 treatment hope derived from llamas
Authors: Gray Arabella
Published: October 2021

Arabella Gray discusses a novel treatment to tackle Covid‐19, using nanobodies produced by llamas
Greg Nelson Simpson
Authors: Daly Mike
Published: October 2021

Regularly nominated for the vet of the year award, he was a talented vet who loved his work.
Classification of large N superconformal gauge theories with a dense spectrum
Authors: Agarwal Prarit , Lee Ki-Hong , Song Jaewon
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We classify the large N limits of four-dimensional supersymmetric gauge theories with simple gauge groups that flow to superconformal fixed points. We restrict ourselves to the ones without a superpotential and with a fixed flavor symmetry. We find 35 classes in total, with 8 having a dense spectrum of chiral gauge-invariant operators. The central charges a and c for the dense theories grow linearly in N in contrast to the N2 growth for the theories with a sparse spectrum. The difference between the central charges a − c can have both signs, and it does not vanish in the large N limit for the dense theories. We find that there can be multiple bands separated by a gap, or a discrete spectrum above the band. We also find a criterion on the matter content for the fixed point theory to possess either a dense or sparse spectrum. We discover a few curious aspects regarding supersymmetric RG flows and a-maximization along the way. For all the theories with the dense spectrum, the AdS version of the Weak Gravity Conjecture (including the convex hull condition for the cases with multiple U(1)’s) holds for large enough N even though they do not have weakly-coupled gravity duals.
Two-particle scattering from finite-volume quantization conditions using the plane wave basis
Authors: Meng Lu , Epelbaum E.
Published: October 2021

Abstract

We propose an alternative approach to Lüscher’s formula for extracting two-body scattering phase shifts from finite volume spectra with no reliance on the partial wave expansion. We use an effective-field-theory-based Hamiltonian method in the plane wave basis and decompose the corresponding matrix elements of operators into irreducible representations of the relevant point groups. The proposed approach allows one to benefit from the knowledge of the long-range interaction and avoids complications from partial wave mixing in a finite volume. We consider spin-singlet channels in the two-nucleon system and pion-pion scattering in the ρ-meson channel in the rest and moving frames to illustrate the method for non-relativistic and relativistic systems, respectively. For the two-nucleon system, the long-range interaction due to the one-pion exchange is found to make the single-channel Lüscher formula unreliable at the physical pion mass. For S-wave dominated states, the single-channel Lüscher method suffers from significant finite-volume artifacts for a L = 3 fm box, but it works well for boxes with L > 5 fm. However, for P-wave dominated states, significant partial wave mixing effects prevent the application of the single-channel Lüscher formula regardless of the box size (except for the near-threshold region). Using a toy model to generate synthetic data for finite-volume energies, we show that our effective-field-theory-based approach in the plane wave basis is capable of a reliable extraction of the phase shifts. For pion-pion scattering, we employ a phenomenological model to fit lattice QCD results at the physical pion mass. The extracted P-wave phase shifts are found to be in a good agreement with the experimental results.
Three-point functions of higher-spin spinor current multiplets in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 1 superconformal theory
Authors: Buchbinder Evgeny I. , Hutomo Jessica , Kuzenko Sergei M.
Published: October 2021

Abstract

In this paper, we study the general form of three-point functions of conserved current multiplets Sα(k) = S(α1…αk) of arbitrary rank in four-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 superconformal theory. We find that the correlation function of three such operators $$ \left\langle {\overline{S}}_{\dot{\alpha}(k)}\left({z}_1\right){S}_{\beta \left(k+l\right)}\left({z}_2\right){\overline{S}}_{\dot{\gamma}(l)}\left({z}_3\right)\right\rangle $$

S
¯

α
̇

k

z
1

S

β

k
+
l

z
2

S
¯

γ
̇

l

z
3

is fixed by the superconformal symmetry up to a single complex coefficient though the precise form of the correlator depends on the values of k and l. In addition, we present the general structure of mixed correlators of the form $$ \left\langle {\overline{S}}_{\dot{\alpha}(k)}\left({z}_1\right){S}_{\alpha (k)}\left({z}_2\right)L\left({z}_3\right)\right\rangle $$

S
¯

α
̇

k

z
1

S

α

k

z
2

L

z
3

and $$ \left\langle {\overline{S}}_{\dot{\alpha}(k)}\left({z}_1\right){S}_{\alpha (k)}\left({z}_2\right){J}_{\gamma \dot{\gamma}}\left({z}_3\right)\right\rangle $$

S
¯

α
̇

k

z
1

S

α

k

z
2

J

γ

γ
̇

z
3

, where L is the flavour current multiplet and $$ {J}_{\gamma \dot{\gamma}} $$

J

γ

γ
̇

is the supercurrent.
Supersymmetric alignment models for (g − 2)μ
Authors: Nakai Yuichiro , Reece Matthew , Suzuki Motoo
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Hierarchical masses of quarks and leptons are addressed by imposing horizontal symmetries. In supersymmetric Standard Models, the same symmetries play a role in suppressing flavor violating processes induced by supersymmetric particles. Combining the idea of spontaneous CP violation to control contributions to electric dipole moments (EDMs), the mass scale of supersymmetric particles can be lowered. We present supersymmetric models with U(1) horizontal symmetries and discuss CP and flavor constraints. Models with two U(1) symmetries are found to give a viable solution to the muon g − 2 anomaly. Interestingly, the parameter space to explain the anomaly will be probed by future electron EDM experiments.
Quantum unitary dynamics of a charged fermionic field and Schwinger effect
Authors: Álvarez-Domínguez Álvaro , Garay Luis J. , García-Heredia David , Martín-Benito Mercedes
Published: October 2021

Abstract

In quantum field theory, particle creation occurs, in general, when an intense external field, such as an electromagnetic field, breaks time translational invariance. This leads to an ambiguity in the definition of the vacuum state. In cosmological backgrounds this ambiguity has been reduced by imposing that the quantization preserves the symmetries of the system and that the dynamics is unitarily implemented. In this work, we apply these requirements to the quantization of a massive charged fermionic field coupled to a classical time-dependent homogeneous electric field, extending previous studies done for a scalar field. We characterize the quantizations fulfilling the criteria above and we show that they form a unique equivalence class of unitarily related quantizations, which provide a well-defined number of created particles at all finite times.
OncomiRs miR-106a and miR-17 negatively regulate the nucleoside-derived drug transporter hCNT1
Authors: Boces-Pascual Clara , Mata-Ventosa Aida , Martín-Satué Mireia , Boix Loreto , Gironella Meritxell , Pastor-Anglada Marçal , Pérez-Torras Sandra
Published: October 2021

High-affinity uptake of natural nucleosides as well as nucleoside derivatives used in anticancer therapies is mediated by human concentrative nucleoside transporters (hCNTs). hCNT1, the hCNT family member that specifically transports pyrimidines, is also a transceptor involved in tumor progression. In particular, oncogenesis appears to be associated with hCNT1 downregulation in some cancers, although the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we sought to address changes in colorectal and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma—both of which are important digestive cancers—in the context of treatment with fluoropyrimidine derivatives. An analysis of cancer samples and matching non-tumoral adjacent tissues revealed downregulation of hCNT1 protein in both types of tumor. Further exploration of the putative regulation of hCNT1 by microRNAs (miRNAs), which are highly deregulated in these cancers, revealed a direct relationship between the oncomiRs miR-106a and miR-17 and the loss of hCNT1. Collectively, our findings provide the first demonstration that hCNT1 inhibition by these oncomiRs could contribute to chemoresistance to fluoropyrimidine-based treatments in colorectal and pancreatic cancer.

Graphic abstract
Design of stiffened panels for stress and buckling via topology optimization
Authors: Chu Sheng , Featherston Carol , Kim H. Alicia
Published: October 2021

This paper investigates the weight minimization of stiffened panels simultaneously optimizing sizing, layout, and topology under stress and buckling constraints. An effective topology optimization parameterization is presented using multiple level-set functions. Plate elements are employed to model the stiffened panels. The stiffeners are parametrized by implicit level-set functions. The internal topologies of the stiffeners are optimized as well as their layout. A free-form mesh deformation approach is improved to adjust the finite element mesh. Sizing optimization is also included. The thicknesses of the skin and stiffeners are optimized. Bending, shear, and membrane stresses are evaluated at the bottom, middle, and top surfaces of the elements. A p-norm function is used to aggregate these stresses in a single constraint. To solve the optimization problem, a semi-analytical sensitivity analysis is performed, and the optimization algorithm is outlined. Numerical investigations demonstrate and validate the proposed method.
Edge finishing of large turbine casings using defined multi-edge and abrasive tools in automated cells
Authors: Rodríguez Adrian , González Mikel , Pereira Octavio , de Lacalle L. Norberto López , Esparta Mikel
Published: October 2021

Automate finishing processes is a global challenge in several industrial sectors. Concretely, when dealing with aero-engine components, only simple finishing processes are automated nowadays. Most of the high-added value components manufactured are finished hand working, using deburring and polishing manual techniques. The driver of the proposed work is to achieve the necessary knowledge to introduce in a production line a complete finishing process for automated robotic deburring applications with low machinability materials (Inconel 718 in this case-study) on aero-engine casings with complex geometries: extruded casting bosses, internal features, etc. For this purpose, a three-step methodology is presented and analysed, providing a feasible workflow combining visual inspection for part positioning and edge location, with multi-edge solid tools and flexible abrasive tools to automate finishing operations, taking into account all process singularities. Results show that, using correct techniques, processes and parameters, an automated finishing process reducing operating time can be implemented in production lines.
Inhibitory effects of hyperoside and quercitrin from Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. leaf on 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4,5-b]pyridine formation by trapping phenylacetaldehyde
Authors: Wang Wei , Ren Xiaopu , Bao Yingjie , Zhu Yuxia , Zhang Yawei , Li Junke , Peng Zengqi
Published: October 2021

2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazole[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) is one of the most abundant Heterocyclic amines (HAs) in meat products. Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. leaf (ZML) extract has been shown to be rich in polyphenols, which are gaining increasing interest as efficient tools for inhibiting the formation of HAs. In the present work, the effects of ZML extract, major polyphenols, chlorogenic acid, hyperoside and quercitrin on the formation of PhIP in both roast beef patties and chemical model systems were investigated. UPLC-MS showed that ZML extract and those three polyphenols effectively inhibited PhIP formation. Additionally, GC-MS analysis showed that those three polyphenols significantly reduced the content of phenylacetaldehyde in the model systems, a key intermediate involved in PhIP formation. The subsequent UPLC-MS and TOF-MS/MS analysis found that hyperoside and quercitrin reacted with phenyacetaldehyde to form those four adducts, 8-C-(E-Phenylethenyl)hyperoside, 6-C-(E-Phenylethenyl)hyperoside, 8-C-(E-Phenylethenyl)quercitrin and 6-C-(E-Phenylethenyl)quercitrin, respectively. The results revealed that hyperoside and quercitrin could trap phenylacetaldehyde to form adducts, thereby, retarding the reaction of phenylacetaldehyde and creatinine, blocking the generation of PhIP.
“Within a minute” detection of focal cortical dysplasia
Authors: Urbach Horst , Heers Marcel , Altenmueller Dirk-Matthias , Schulze-Bonhage Andreas , Staack Anke Maren , Bast Thomas , Reisert Marco , Schwarzwald Ralf , Kaller Christoph P. , Huppertz Hans-Juergen , Demerath Theo
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To evaluate a MRI postprocessing tool for the enhanced and rapid detection of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD).

Methods

MP2RAGE sequences of 40 consecutive, so far MRI-negative patients and of 32 healthy controls were morphometrically analyzed to highlight typical FCD features. The resulting morphometric maps served as input for an artificial neural network generating a FCD probability map. The FCD probability map was inversely normalized, co-registered to the MPRAGE2 sequence, and re-transferred into the PACS system. Co-registered images were scrolled through “within a minute” to determine whether a FCD was present or not.

Results

Fifteen FCD, three subcortical band heterotopias (SBH), and one periventricular nodular heterotopia were identified. Of those, four FCD and one SBH were only detected by MRI postprocessing while one FCD and one focal polymicrogryia were missed, respectively. False-positive results occurred in 21 patients and 22 healthy controls. However, true positive cluster volumes were significantly larger than volumes of false-positive clusters (p < 0.001). The area under the curve of the receiver operating curve was 0.851 with a cut-off volume of 0.05 ml best indicating a FCD.

Conclusion

Automated MRI postprocessing and presentation of co-registered output maps in the PACS allowed for rapid (i.e., “within a minute”) identification of FCDs in our clinical setting. The presence of false-positive findings currently requires a careful comparison of postprocessing results with conventional MR images but may be reduced in the future using a neural network better adapted to MP2RAGE images.
Advanced translation and cultural adaption of the LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module from English to Danish
Authors: Madsen Christoffer Bing , Poulsen Lotte , Jørgensen Mads Gustaf , Lorenzen Mike Mikkelsen , Tsangaris Elena , Klassen Anne , Sørensen Jens Ahm
Published: October 2021

Background

To better quantify the impact that breast cancer-related arm lymphedema (BCRL) has on health-related quality of life (HR-QOL), a disease-specific patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) is needed. The LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module was recently developed for patients with BCRL. The aim of this study was to perform an advanced translation and culturally adapt the LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module for use in Denmark.

Methods

The LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module was translated into Danish according to the guidelines of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The process included two forward and one back translation, an expert panel meeting, and cognitive debriefing interviews with patients. The focus of the translation was to develop a Danish version that used appropriate patient-friendly language while maintaining the meaning of the items, instructions and response options.

Results

The two forward translations resulted in minor differences in terminology. These discrepancies were discussed among the translators and a harmonized Danish version 1 was achieved. Comparison of the back translation to the original English version identified 14 items/instructions/response options that required re-translation. Subsequently, experts helped to identify and resolve the language for 10 items/instructions/response options that did not maintain the same meaning as the English version. Participants in the cognitive debriefing interviews did not report any difficulties with understanding the items/instructions/response options.

Conclusions

The translation and cultural adaption process led to the development of a conceptually equivalent Danish version of the LYMPH-Q Upper Extremity Module.

Level of Evidence: Not gradable
Diagnostic reference levels and median doses for common clinical indications of CT: findings from an international registry
Authors: Bos Denise , Yu Sophronia , Luong Jason , Chu Philip , Wang Yifei , Einstein Andrew J. , Starkey Jay , Delman Bradley N. , Duong Phuong-Anh T. , Das Marco , Schindera Sebastian , Goode Allen R. , MacLeod Fiona , Wetter Axel , Neill Rebecca , Lee Ryan K. , Roehm Jodi , Seibert James A. , Cervantes Luisa F. , Kasraie Nima , Pike Pavlina , Pahwa Anokh , Jeukens Cécile R. L. P. N. , Smith-Bindman Rebecca
Published: October 2021

Ob
jectives

The European Society of Radiology identified 10 common indications for computed tomography (CT) as part of the European Study on Clinical Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs, EUCLID), to help standardize radiation doses. The objective of this study is to generate DRLs and median doses for these indications using data from the UCSF CT International Dose Registry.

Methods

Standardized data on 3.7 million CTs in adults were collected between 2016 and 2019 from 161 institutions across seven countries (United States of America (US), Switzerland, Netherlands, Germany, UK, Israel, Japan). DRLs (75th percentile) and median doses for volumetric CT-dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product (DLP) were assessed for each EUCLID category (chronic sinusitis, stroke, cervical spine trauma, coronary calcium scoring, lung cancer, pulmonary embolism, coronary CT angiography, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), colic/abdominal pain, appendicitis), and US radiation doses were compared with European.

Results

The number of CT scans within EUCLID categories ranged from 8,933 (HCC) to over 1.2 million (stroke). There was greater variation in dose between categories than within categories (p < .001), and doses were significantly different between categories within anatomic areas. DRLs and median doses were assessed for all categories. DRLs were higher in the US for 9 of the 10 indications (except chronic sinusitis) than in Europe but with a significantly higher sample size in the US.

Conclusions

DRLs for CTDIvol and DLP for EUCLID clinical indications from diverse organizations were established and can contribute to dose optimization. These values were usually significantly higher in the US than in Europe.

Key Points

• Registry data were used to create benchmarks for 10 common indications for CT identified by the European Society of Radiology.

• Observed US radiation doses were higher than European for 9 of 10 indications (except chronic sinusitis).

• The presented diagnostic reference levels and median doses highlight potentially unnecessary variation in radiation dose.
Interplay between adipose tissue secreted proteins, eating behavior and obesity
Authors: Würfel Marleen , Breitfeld Jana , Gebhard Claudia , Scholz Markus , Baber Ronny , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. , Blüher Matthias , Stumvoll Michael , Kovacs Peter , Tönjes Anke
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Adipokines may play an important role in the complex etiology of human obesity and its metabolic complications. Here, we analyzed the relationship between 15 adipokines, eating behavior and body-mass index (BMI).

Methods

The study included 557 participants of the Sorbs (62.1% women, 37.9% men) and 3101 participants of the population-based LIFE-Adult cohorts (53.4% women, 46.4% men) who completed the German version of the Three-Factor-Eating Questionnaire to assess the eating behavior types cognitive restraint, disinhibition and hunger. Serum levels of 15 adipokines, including adiponectin, adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (AFABP), angiopoietin-related growth factor (AGF), chemerin, fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-19, FGF-21, FGF-23, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, interleukin (IL) 10, irisin, progranulin, vaspin, pro-neurotensin (pro-NT), pro-enkephalin (PENK) and leptin were measured. Based on significant correlations between several adipokines with different eating behavior items and BMI, we conducted mediation analyses, considering the eating behavior items as potential mediation variable towards BMI.

Results

Here, we found that the positive association between chemerin, AFABP or leptin and BMI in Sorbian women was mediated by higher restraint or disinhibited eating, respectively. Additionally, in Sorbian women, the negative relation between IGF-1 and BMI was mediated by higher disinhibition and the positive link between AGF and BMI by lower disinhibition. In Sorbian men, the negative relationship between PENK and BMI was mediated by lower disinhibition and hunger, whereas the negative relation between IGF-1 and BMI was mediated by higher hunger. In the LIFE-Adult women´s cohort, associations between chemerin and BMI were mediated by decreased hunger or disinhibition, respectively, whereas relations between PENK and BMI were fully mediated by decreased disinhibition.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that adipokines such as PENK, IGF-1, chemerin, AGF, AFABP and leptin might affect the development of obesity by directly modifying individual eating behavior. Given the observational nature of the study, future experimental or mechanistic work is warranted.
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) bran preserves cardiac function by modulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and redox state in the myocardium from obese rats
Authors: Garcia Jéssica Leite , Vileigas Danielle Fernandes , Gregolin Cristina Schmitt , Costa Mariane Róvero , Francisqueti-Ferron Fabiane Valentini , Ferron Artur Junio Togneri , De Campos Dijon Henrique Salomé , Moreto Fernando , Minatel Igor Otávio , Bazan Silméia Garcia Zanati , Corrêa Camila Renata
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of rice bran (RB) supplementation to a high-sugar fat (HSF) diet on cardiac dysfunction in an experimental obesity model.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were distributed into three groups: control, high-sugar fat, and high-sugar fat supplemented with 11% RB for 20 weeks.

Results

HSF diet promoted obesity and metabolic complications. Obese rats showed cardiac structural and functional impairment associated with high levels of interleukin-6, tumoral necrosis factor alpha, and malondialdehyde, and decreased activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the myocardium. RB supplementation was able to mitigate obesity and its metabolic alterations in HSF diet-fed animals. Moreover, the RB also prevented structural and functional damage, inflammation, and redox imbalance in the heart of these animals.

Conclusion

This study suggests that RB supplementation prevents cardiac dysfunction in rats fed on HSF by modulating systemic metabolic complications and inflammation and oxidative stress in the myocardium, representing potential alternative therapy.
Phosphorylation of CAP1 regulates lung cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion
Authors: Zeng Jie , Li Xuan , Liang Long , Duan Hongxia , Xie Shuanshuan , Wang Changhui
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Cyclase-associated protein 1 (CAP1) is a ubiquitous protein which regulates actin dynamics. Previous studies have shown that S308 and S310 are the two major phosphorylated sites in human CAP1. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the role of CAP1 phosphorylation in lung cancer.

Methods

Massive bioinformatics analysis was applied to determine CAP1’s role in different cancers and especially in lung cancer. Lung cancer patients’ serum and tissue were collected and analyzed in consideration of clinical background. CAP1 shRNA-lentivirus and siRNA were applied to CAP1 gene knockdown, and plasmids were constructed for CAP1 phosphorylation and de-phosphorylation. Microarray analysis was used for CAP1-associated difference analysis. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments were performed to investigate the roles of CAP1 phosphorylation and de-phosphorylation in lung cancer A549 cells.

Results

CAP1 is a kind of cancer-related protein. Its mRNA was overexpressed in most types of cancer tissues when compared with normal tissues. CAP1 high expression correlated with poor prognosis. Our results showed that serum CAP1 protein concentrations were significantly upregulated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients when compared with the healthy control group, higher serum CAP1 protein concentration correlated with shorter overall survival (OS) in NSCLC patients, and higher pCAP1 and CAP1 protein level were observed in lung cancer patients’ tumor tissue compared with adjacent normal tissue. Knockdown CAP1 in A549 cells can inhibit proliferation and migration, and the effect is validated in H1975 cells. It can also lead to an increase ratio of F-actin/G-actin. In addition, phosphorylated S308 and S310 in CAP1 promoted lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. When de-phosphorylated, these two sites in CAP1 showed the opposite effect. Phosphorylation of CAP1 can promote epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Conclusion

These findings indicated that CAP1 phosphorylation can promote lung cancer proliferation, migration, and invasion. Phosphorylation sites of CAP1 might be a novel target for lung cancer treatment.