bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bond capacity between H‐shaped steel and recycled concrete under cyclic loading
Authors: Xin Zhang , Jianyang Xue , Rui Ren
Published: August 2021

The premature debonding at the H‐shaped steel‐recycled concrete interface is the main cause of performance degradation for steel reinforced recycled concrete (SRRC) structures especially subjected cyclic loading. However, the bond behavior and shear transfer mechanism under cyclic loading has not been fully understood. For this reason, totally 14 SRRC specimens were performed under cyclic loading. The effects of replacement ratio of recycled concrete (r), thickness of steel concrete cover (Css), reinforcement ratio (ρsv), and recycled concrete strength (fc) are studied. Besides, the bond‐slip constitutive model considering the position function of steel was investigated. The results indicated that the bond capacity of specimen gradually degenerates under cyclic loading, and the load‐slip curves show an obvious “pinching” phenomenon. The bond failure process can be divided into four stages: micro slip stage (O–A), slip development stage (A–B), slip rapid increase stage (B–C), and residual stage (C–D). The average ultimate bond strength of specimen under cyclic load is about 60% of that under pull‐out load. Based on the analysis, bond‐slip constitutive model between H‐shaped steel and recycled concrete was proposed.
Examination of the molecular mechanism of the mutual inhibitory effect of each cytotoxicity caused by the combined extraction of Coptidis Rhizoma and Rhei Rhizoma: An example of providing evidence for ‘herbal pair’ theory
Authors: Suzuki Rena , Zhao Qingfeng , Hosokai Haruka , Tohda Michihisa
Published: August 2021

Aim

Kampo medicines are effective depending on the combination of crude drugs. In addition, the basis is a combination of two crude drugs, which is defined as a ‘herbal pair’. However, there are very few studies from this point of view. We found that Rhei Rhizoma (RR) may interact with Coptidis Rhizoma (CR).

Methods

Component profiles were analyzed by three‐dimensional high‐performance liquid chromatography (3D‐HPLC). Cell viability in N18TG‐2 cells was determined by morphology observation and a ‘3‐(4,5‐di‐methylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide, yellow tetrazole (MTT)’ assay.

Results

When RR and CR were extracted together, the color of the extract was lighter than the colors of the individual extracts. In addition, precipitation occurred by simply combining the extracts of both in vitro. When each component profile was analyzed by 3D‐HPLC, at least the amount of berberine, which is contained in a large amount in CR, was strongly decreased in combined extracts with RR. Although CR and RR each have a cytotoxic effect, when both were extracted together, their cytotoxicity almost disappeared. However, cytotoxicity remained in the supernatant when both extracts were combined in vitro, and also in the suspension of the resulting precipitate.

Conclusion

From these results, when CR and RR are extracted together, their cytotoxicity is suppressed by some unknown mechanism. Whether this is due to the synthesis of new compounds by co‐extraction or the detoxification of toxic components by interaction needs further investigation. This result suggests the importance of ‘herbal pair’ research.
An approach to models for transport and transformation of organochlorine pesticides in rivers
Authors: Cárdenas‐Izaguirre Samuel Felipe , Márquez‐Romance Adriana Mercedes , Guevara‐Pérez Edilberto , Pérez‐Pacheco Sergio Alejandro
Published: August 2021

This paper constitutes a novel proposal for predicting the accumulation–utilization rate for transport of the organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) as well as the kinetic coefficients of biodegradation of OCPs dissolved in water and sorbed on sediments in tropical rivers. Eight OCPs were determined in waters and sediments in the dry and rainy seasons from 2013 to 2016. The biochemical transport and transformation model was proposed in two directions, along the river , and across the river (direction ), , providing kinetic parameters linked to Monod's equation under a steady‐state condition for particulate and soluble OCPs, being useful for designing bioremediation techniques to restore water bodies.
Computed tomography may detect liver infiltration of canine diffuse hepatic lymphoma
Authors: Tanaka Toshiyuki , Yamazaki Hiroki , Ashida Kazuna , Iimori Yasumasa , Mie Keiichiro , Nishida Hidetaka , Akiyoshi Hideo
Published: August 2021

Background

In dogs, hepatic lymphoma is characterized by neoplastic lymphocyte infiltration into the liver. Reports on the computed tomography (CT) findings of the liver for canine hepatic lymphoma are few, with only one study of multiple liver lesions type.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively assess the CT findings of the liver in canine diffuse hepatic lymphoma.

Methods

As control, five dogs without abnormalities in the liver were included. CT data were analysed, and the following were noted: presence of edge bluntness of the liver, presence of periportal collar sign, the liver size:body weight (BW) ratio and the mean attenuation of liver lesions on pre‐contrast, arterial‐phase, portal‐phase and equilibrium‐phase post‐contrast images.

Results

On CT examination, edge bluntness of the liver was significantly detected in lymphoma (4/5, 80%), as opposed to the control (0/5, 0%) (p = 0.048, φ = 0.82). The periportal collar sign was detected in lymphoma (3/5, 60%), as opposed to the control (0/5, 0%) (p = 0.17, φ = 0.65). The liver size:BW ratio of lymphoma cases was significantly higher compared to that of the control cases (p = 0.0002, r = 0.92). The mean Hounsfield unit of lymphoma cases in the pre‐contrast, arterial‐phase, portal‐phase and equilibrium‐phase images were significantly lower than in the control cases (p = 0.005, r = 0.81; p = 0.0003, r = 0.91; p = 0.01, r = 0.75 and p = 0.02, r = 0.71, respectively).

Conclusions

Hepatic lymphoma should be a differential for a blunted and enlarged liver with hypoattenuation on CT examination.
Zoonotic pathogens in wild muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) and domestic sheep (Ovis aries) from Greenland
Authors: Berg Rebecca P. K. D. , Stensvold C. Rune , Jokelainen Pikka , Grønlund Anna K. , Nielsen Henrik V. , Kutz Susan , Kapel Christian M.O.
Published: August 2021

The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of zoonotic pathogens Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., Toxoplasma gondii and Erysipelothrix in muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) and sheep (Ovis aries) from Greenland. In 2017 and 2018, faecal samples were collected from wild muskoxen from three distinct populations (Zackenberg, Kangerlussuaq, and Ivittuut) and from domestic sheep from southwest Greenland. Blood samples were collected from muskoxen from Kangerlussuaq and Ivittuut and from sheep. Faecal samples were tested for specific DNA of G. duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp., and blood samples were tested for antibodies against T. gondii and Erysipelothrix. The estimated prevalence of G. duodenalis was 0% (0/58), 17% (7/41) and 0% (0/55) in muskoxen from Zackenberg, Kangerlussuaq and Ivittuut, respectively, and 37% (16/43) in sheep. The estimated prevalence of Cryptosporidium was 0% (0/58), 2% (1/41), 7% (4/55) in muskoxen from Zackenberg, Kangerlussuaq, Ivittuut, respectively, and 2% (1/43) in sheep. Neither Giardia nor Cryptosporidium were detected in winter samples (0/78). Of the positive samples, Giardia from one muskox sample only was successfully typed as G. duodenalis assemblage A, and Cryptosporidium from two muskoxen was successfully typed as C. parvum, subtype IIdA20G1e. The estimated T. gondii seroprevalence was 2% (1/44) and 0% (0/8) in muskoxen from Kangerlussuaq and Ivittuut, respectively, and 1% (1/155) in sheep. The estimated Erysipelothrix seroprevalence was 2% (1/45) and 13% (1/8) in muskoxen from Kangerlussuaq and Ivittuut, respectively, and 7% (10/150) in sheep. The results of this study add to the scarce knowledge on zoonotic pathogens in the Arctic.
Evolution of haematopoietic cell transplantation for canine blood disorders and a platform for solid organ transplantation
Authors: Graves Scott S. , Storb Rainer
Published: August 2021

Pre‐clinical haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) studies in canines have proven to be invaluable for establishing HCT as a highly successful clinical option for the treatment of malignant and non‐malignant haematological diseases in humans. Additionally, studies in canines have shown that immune tolerance, established following HCT, enabled transplantation of solid organs without the need of lifelong immunosuppression. This progress has been possible due to multiple biological similarities between dog and mankind. In this review, the hurdles that were overcome and the methods that were developed in the dog HCT model which made HCT clinically possible are examined. The results of these studies justify the question whether HCT can be used in the veterinary clinical practice for more wide‐spread successful treatment of canine haematologic and non‐haematologic disorders and whether it is prudent to do so.
Genomic association and further characterisation of faecal immunoglobulin A deficiency in German Shepherd dogs
Authors: Grützner Niels , Heilmann Romy M. , Tress Ursula , Peters Iain R. , Suchodolski Jan S. , Steiner Jörg M.
Published: August 2021

Background

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency, chronic enteropathies and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) have a high prevalence in German Shepherd dogs (GSD). This prospective study determined the prevalence of faecal IgA deficiency (IgAD) in GSD and investigated several candidate genes and the canine genome for a region or locus co‐segregating with IgAD in GSD. Faecal IgA concentrations were quantified and genomic DNA was extracted from 8 GSD with an undetectable faecal IgA (classified as IgAD) and 80 non‐IgAD GSD. The canine minimal screening set II microsatellite markers were genotyped, with evidence of an association atp < 1.0 × 10−3. Faecal IgA concentrations were also tested for an association with patient clinical and biochemical variables.

Results

Allele frequencies observed using the candidate gene approach were not associated with faecal IgAD in GSD. In the genome‐wide association study (GWAS), the microsatellite marker FH2361 on canine chromosome 33 approached statistical significance for a link with IgAD in GSD (p = 1.2 × 10−3). A subsequent GWAS in 11 GSD with EPI and 80 control GSD revealed a significant association between EPI and FH2361 (p = 8.2 × 10−4).

Conclusions

The lack of an association with the phenotype of faecal IgAD in GSD using the candidate gene approach and GWAS might suggests that faecal IgAD in GSD is a relative or transient state of deficiency. However, the prevalence of faecal IgAD in GSD appears to be low (<3%). The relationship between faecal IgAD, EPI and loci close to FH2361 on canine chromosome 33 in GSD warrants further investigation.
Successful treatment of a hepatic abscess in a pony by percutaneous drainage and antimicrobial therapy
Authors: Witt Petra , Siegers Esther W. , Tobón Restrepo Mauricio , van den Boom Robin
Published: August 2021

A 4‐year‐old Welsh pony mare presented with anorexia and colic of several days’ duration. The mare showed gastric reflux for several days with clinicopathological evidence of inflammation and markedly increased hepatic parameters. Treatment consisted of supportive care and broad‐spectrum antimicrobials. Ultrasound revealed hepatopathy and liver biopsy was consistent with bacterial hepatitis. Two weeks later, multiple abscesses could be imaged and the largest abscess was drained percutaneously, under ultrasound guidance. Bacterial culture of the aspirated purulent material yieldedEscherichia coliand antimicrobial therapy was switched to oral enrofloxacin for another 2 weeks. The pony made a full clinical recovery and ultrasound revealed improvement in hepatic structure. Two years after discharge from the hospital the pony was reported to be healthy and performing at the expected level.
Synthesis of Unsupported Primary Phosphido Complexes of Aluminum(III)
Authors: Phan Nathan A. , Sherbow Tobias J. , Fettinger James C. , Berben Louise A.
Published: August 2021

Primary phosphido complexes of aluminum(III) are rare, particularly those that are not supported by interactions with Lewis bases or stabilizing cations. Here we report two new examples of unsupported primary phosphido complexes of Al(III). The ancillary ligand on Al is a pincer ligand, diiminopyridine (denoted as I2P). Solid‐state structures show distorted tetrahedral geometry about Al and single bond character in the Al−P bond. Near infra‐red spectra display low energy absorption bands near 1050 nm that are consistent with pincer ligand – Al charge transfer transitions and metalloaromatic character in the “(I2P2−)Al” fragment of the molecules. The phosphido ligands lie out of the I2P ligand plane by up to 15° and this is consistent with our previous reports where π‐donor halide ligands occupy the fourth coordination site on Al.
Earth Observation Applications in the Hindu Kush Himalaya Region—Evolution and Adoptions
Authors: Bajracharya Birendra , Irwin Daniel E. , Thapa Rajesh Bahadur , Matin Mir A.
Published: August 2021

The year 1957 marked the start of a new era in human history with the launch of Sputnik, thus began the journey of Earth observation (EO). Then, in the early 1960s, with rapid developments in space technology and the race to reach the moon, scientific discussions veered toward the potential applications of EO in the fields of geography, agriculture, water resources, geology, and oceanography (NASA: Sputnik and the dawn of the space age, 2017; Haklay et al. in Earth observation open science and innovation, ISSI scientific report series 15, 2018).
Monitoring of Glaciers and Glacial Lakes in Afghanistan
Authors: Maharjan Sudan Bikash , Shrestha Finu , Azizi Fayezurahman , Joya Esmatullah , Bajracharya Birendra , Bromand Mohammad Tayib , Rahimi Mohammad Murtaza
Published: August 2021

During the needs assessment in Afghanistan, the General Directorate of Water Resources (GDWR) of the National Water Affairs Regulation Authority (NWARA) (previously Water Resource Department (WRD) of  the Ministry of Energy and Water (MEW)) emphasized that the compilation of comprehensive data on the glaciers in the country is a national priority.
Geospatial Information Technology for Information Management and Dissemination
Authors: Pradhan Sudip , Bajracharya Birendra , Shakya Kiran , Shakya Bikram
Published: August 2021

Over the last few decades, the development of geospatial technologies has converged with a variety of formal information technology disciplines (Zwartjes in Eur J Geogr 9(4):138–151, 2018; Jackson and Schell in Directions Magazine, 2009). The rapidly growing location-based services seamlessly integrate data and technologies from Earth observation (EO), Geographic Information System (GIS), Geographic Position System (GPS), and wireless and mobile communications (Huang et al. in J Location Based Servi 12(2):63–93, 2018).
Strengthening the Capacity on Geospatial Information Technology and Earth Observation Applications
Authors: Thapa Rajesh Bahadur , Tripathi Poonam , Matin Mir A. , Bajracharya Birendra , Hernandez Sandoval Betzy E.
Published: August 2021

The innovative transformation in geospatial information technology (GIT) and Earth observation (EO) data provides a significant opportunity to study the Earth’s environment and enables an advanced understanding of natural and anthropogenic impacts on ecosystems at the local, regional, and global levels (Thapa et al. in Carbon Balance Manag 10(23):1–13, 2015; Flores et al. in SAR handbook: comprehensive methodologies for forest monitoring and biomass estimation. NASA Publication, 2019; Leibrand et al. in Front Environ Sci 7:123, 2019; Chap. 1). The major advantages of these technologies can be briefly categorized into five broad areas: multidisciplinary; innovative and emerging; providing platforms for analysis, modelling, and visualization; capability to support decision-making; and impact on policies.
Gender Integration in Earth Observation and Geo-information Technology Applications: Correlation and Connections
Authors: Goodrich Chanda Gurung , Gurung Kamala , Hamal Menaka
Published: August 2021

As technological innovation and advancement is sweeping across the world, transforming economies, countries, and societies, Earth observation (EO) and geo-information technologies (GIT) have come closer to the public realm and become exceedingly an all-encompassing part in the daily lives of people, with more uses and users. These technologies today are not just “research and visualization tools”, but they touch upon all aspects of people’s lives, bringing in advantages as well as challenges for different groups of people.
User Engagement for Sustaining Services
Authors: Shakya Naina , Pathak Santosh , Bajracharya Birendra , Matin Mir A.
Published: August 2021

In the first phase of SERVIR-HKH, there was disconnect between the cutting-edge technology products that were developed and the specific needs of the users. Thus, the service planning approach shifted the focus from products to comprehensive services that put the users’ need first. User engagement improved the quality of the services by addressing user feedback and also building sustainability into the services from the very beginning. This chapter aims to introduce the concept of user engagement in the context of SERVIR-HKH and its execution within the service planning framework; it also dwells on the lessons that have been learnt. The chapter also gives prominence to examples of user engagement case studies as well as to the tools and techniques that have been adopted for successful user engagement. It also describes the insights, achievements, and experiences during the implementation process of the user engagement module in the HKH region.
Lessons and Future Perspectives of Earth Observation and GIT in the HKH
Authors: Matin Mir A. , Bajracharya Birendra , Thapa Rajesh Bahadur
Published: August 2021

During the last decade, SERVIR has been striving for realizing its vision of “Space to Village” by implementing services that provide innovative solutions to improve livelihoods and foster self-reliance with the help of EO and geospatial technologies. Over these years, there has been significant development in the field of EO and geospatial technology. However, the capacity of the key agencies to utilize these advancements to produce, disseminate, and use information has not been able to catch up with these developments. As cited in the previous chapters, SERVIR-HKH has been working with various partners and stakeholders in co-developing and implementing applied, user-driven EO and geospatial information services in the HKH region. SERVIR-HKH recognizes that the sustainability of information products and applications and their use requires an understanding of users and their needs. Understanding the user’s needs and organizational context is the key to delivering effective services. As illustrated in Chaps. 2 and 3, the needs assessment study revealed that the use of geospatial data in the region started in the early 1990s, but there are still gaps in the institutionalization and sharing of that information. Often, individual agencies produce geospatial information for their own purpose and do not share it due to lack of policies. Besides, in most cases, the information would have been generated through specific projects funded by external agencies without proper sustainability planning. And as has happened in many cases, those services could not be continued due to lack of resources and capacity.
Service Planning Approach and Its Application
Authors: Thapa Rajesh Bahadur , Bajracharya Birendra , Matin Mir A. , Anderson Eric , Epanchin Pete
Published: August 2021

In the first phase, SERVIR-HKH placed high importance on developing application products and tools to demonstrate the usefulness of earth observation (EO) and geospatial information in supporting decision-making on various thematic areas including land cover mapping, forest fire monitoring, agriculture and food security, disasters, and air quality monitoring (Chap. 1).
A Regional Drought Monitoring and Outlook System for South Asia
Authors: Qamer Faisal Mueen , Matin Mir A. , Zaitchik Ben , Shakya Kiran , Fan Yi , Khanal Nishanta , Ellenburg Walter Lee , Krupnik Timothy J. , Hamidur Rahman Hasan Md. , Ahmad Bashir , Shah Shib Nandan , Kshetri Man
Published: August 2021

The Regional Drought Monitoring and Outlook System (RDMOS) is an operational service which produces reliable drought indicators for the south Asia region with a specific focus on Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. The system incorporates climatic models with suitable Earth observation data and land surface models to produce drought indices—precipitation, temperature, soil moisture, evapotranspiration—and vegetation conditions at 10-day intervals for near realtime monitoring of droughts. The RDMOS also provides seasonal outlooks at four-month intervals to support drought management and preparedness processes.
Regional Land Cover Monitoring System for Hindu Kush Himalaya
Authors: Uddin Kabir , Matin Mir A. , Khanal Nishanta , Maharjan Sajana , Bajracharya Birendra , Tenneson Karis , Poortinga Ate , Quyen Nguyen Hanh , Aryal Raja Ram , Saah David , Lee Ellenburg Walter , Potapov Peter , Flores-Anderson Africa , Chishtie Farrukh , Aung Khun San , Mayer Timothy , Pradhan Sudip , Markert Amanda
Published: August 2021

The land cover across the HKH region is changing at an accelerated rate due to the rapid economic growth and population pressures that are impacting the long-term sustainability of ecosystems.
Forest Fire Detection and Monitoring
Authors: Thapa Sunil , Chitale Vishwas Sudhir , Pradhan Sudip , Shakya Bikram , Sharma Sundar , Regmi Smriety , Bajracharya Sameer , Adhikari Shankar , Dangol Gauri Shankar
Published: August 2021

Forest fire is one of the major global environmental issues, causing havoc in places as disparate as cold Siberia, tropical Amazon, and the temperate HKH region (Fig. 8.1).
Dimensional reduction and (Anti) de Sitter bounds
Authors: Rudelius Tom
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Dimensional reduction has proven to be a surprisingly powerful tool for delineating the boundary between the string landscape and the swampland. Bounds from the Weak Gravity Conjecture and the Repulsive Force Conjecture, for instance, are exactly preserved under dimensional reduction. Motivated by its success in these cases, we apply a similar dimensional reduction analysis to bounds on the gradient of the scalar field potential V and the mass scale m of a tower of light particles in terms of the cosmological constant Λ, which ideally may pin down ambiguous O(1) constants appearing in the de Sitter Conjecture and the (Anti) de Sitter Distance Conjecture, respectively. We find that this analysis distinguishes the bounds $$ \left|\nabla V\right|/V\ge \sqrt{4/\left(d-2\right)} $$

∇
V

/
V
≥

4
/

d
−
2

, m ≲ |Λ|1/2, and m ≲ |Λ|1/d in d-dimensional Planck units. The first of these bounds is equivalent to the strong energy condition in Einstein-dilaton gravity and precludes accelerated expansion of the universe. It is almost certainly violated in our universe, though it may apply in asymptotic limits of scalar field space. The second bound cannot be satisfied in our universe, though it is saturated in supersymmetric AdS vacua with well-understood uplifts to 10d/11d supergravity. The third bound likely has a limited range of validity in quantum gravity as well, so it may or may not apply to our universe. However, if it does apply, it suggests a possible relation between the cosmological constant and the neutrino mass, which (by the see-saw mechanism) may further provide a relation between the cosmological constant problem and the hierarchy problem. We also work out the conditions for eternal inflation in general spacetime dimensions, and we comment on the behavior of these conditions under dimensional reduction.
Symmetries and anomalies of (1+1)d theories: 2-groups and symmetry fractionalization
Authors: Yu Matthew
Published: August 2021

Abstract

We investigate the interactions of discrete zero-form and one-form global symmetries in (1+1)d theories. Focus is put on the interactions that the symmetries can have on each other, which in this low dimension result in 2-group symmetries or symmetry fractionalization. A large part of the discussion will be to understand a major feature in (1+1)d: the multiple sectors into which a theory decomposes. We perform gauging of the one-form symmetry, and remark on the effects this has on our theories, especially in the case when there is a global 2-group symmetry. We also implement the spectral sequence to calculate anomalies for the 2-group theories and symmetry fractionalized theory in the bosonic and fermionic cases. Lastly, we discuss topological manipulations on the operators which implement the symmetries, and draw insights on the (1+1)d effects of such manipulations by coupling to a bulk (2+1)d theory.
Celestial amplitudes from UV to IR
Authors: Arkani-Hamed N. , Pate M. , Raclariu A.-M. , Strominger A.
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Celestial amplitudes represent 4D scattering of particles in boost, rather than the usual energy-momentum, eigenstates and hence are sensitive to both UV and IR physics. We show that known UV and IR properties of quantum gravity translate into powerful constraints on the analytic structure of celestial amplitudes. For example the soft UV behavior of quantum gravity is shown to imply that the exact four-particle scattering amplitude is meromorphic in the complex boost weight plane with poles confined to even integers on the negative real axis. Would-be poles on the positive real axis from UV asymptotics are shown to be erased by a flat space analog of the AdS resolution of the bulk point singularity. The residues of the poles on the negative axis are identified with operator coefficients in the IR effective action. Far along the real positive axis, the scattering is argued to grow exponentially according to the black hole area law. Exclusive amplitudes are shown to simply factorize into conformally hard and conformally soft factors. The soft factor contains all IR divergences and is given by a celestial current algebra correlator of Goldstone bosons from spontaneously broken asymptotic symmetries. The hard factor describes the scattering of hard particles together with the boost-eigenstate clouds of soft photons or gravitons required by asymptotic symmetries. These provide an IR safe $$ \mathcal{S} $$
S
-matrix for the scattering of hard particles.
Quasi-Locality Bounds for Quantum Lattice Systems. Part II. Perturbations of Frustration-Free Spin Models with Gapped Ground States
Authors: Nachtergaele Bruno , Sims Robert , Young Amanda
Published: August 2021

We study the stability with respect to a broad class of perturbations of gapped ground-state phases of quantum spin systems defined by frustration-free Hamiltonians. The core result of this work is a proof using the Bravyi–Hastings–Michalakis (BHM) strategy that under a condition of local topological quantum order (LTQO), the bulk gap is stable under perturbations that decay at long distances faster than a stretched exponential. Compared to previous work, we expand the class of frustration-free quantum spin models that can be handled to include models with more general boundary conditions, and models with discrete symmetry breaking. Detailed estimates allow us to formulate sufficient conditions for the validity of positive lower bounds for the gap that are uniform in the system size and that are explicit to some degree. We provide a survey of the BHM strategy following the approach of Michalakis and Zwolak, with alterations introduced to accommodate more general than just periodic boundary conditions and more general lattices. We express the fundamental condition known as LTQO by means of an indistinguishability radius, which we introduce. Using the uniform finite-volume results, we then proceed to study the thermodynamic limit. We first study the case of a unique limiting ground state and then also consider models with spontaneous breaking of a discrete symmetry. In the latter case, LTQO cannot hold for all local observables. However, for perturbations that preserve the symmetry, we show stability of the gap and the structure of the broken symmetry phases. We prove that the GNS Hamiltonian associated with each pure state has a non-zero spectral gap above the ground state.
Impact of different sterilization techniques and mass loss measurements on the durability of wood against wood-destroying fungi
Authors: Brischke Christian , von Boch-Galhau Nicklas , Bollmus Susanne
Published: August 2021

The biological durability of wood is frequently determined in laboratory tests with monocultures of different decay fungi under ideal conditions for fungal growth. To avoid contamination with mould and inhibition of fungal growth, wood specimens need to be sterilized using different methods. To determine the mass loss of wood blocks during incubation, the initial total dry mass is needed but should be determined without oven-drying to avoid the loss of volatile compounds of the tested wood. In this study the effect of different sterilization techniques in combination with different methods of determining the oven-dry weight on mass loss (MLF) in agar plate wood block tests was investigated. No significant MLFdifferences were observed between sterilization through gamma radiation, steam, autoclaving, ethanol dipping and oven-drying. Solely, non-sterilized specimens showed reduced MLF, since the test fungus was inhibited by mould growth. Oven-drying of wood species that contain volatile and resistance-affecting compounds such as Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) led to reduced biological durability and should either be avoided or adapted to kiln-drying temperatures usually applied in practice.
A mutation in LacDWARF1 results in a GA-deficient dwarf phenotype in sponge gourd (Luffa acutangula)
Authors: Zhao Gangjun , Luo Caixia , Luo Jianning , Li Junxing , Gong Hao , Zheng Xiaoming , Liu Xiaoxi , Guo Jinju , Zhou Lingyan , Wu Haibin
Published: August 2021

Key message

A dwarfism gene LacDWARF1 was mapped by combined BSA-Seq and comparative genomics analyses to a 65.4 kb physical genomic region on chromosome 05.

Dwarf architecture is one of the most important traits utilized in Cucurbitaceae breeding because it saves labor and increases the harvest index. To our knowledge, there has been no prior research about dwarfism in the sponge gourd. This study reports the first dwarf mutant WJ209 with a decrease in cell size and internodes. A genetic analysis revealed that the mutant phenotype was controlled by a single recessive gene, which is designated Lacdwarf1 (Lacd1). Combined with bulked segregate analysis and next-generation sequencing, we quickly mapped a 65.4 kb region on chromosome 5 using F2 segregation population with InDel and SNP polymorphism markers. Gene annotation revealed that Lac05g019500 encodes a gibberellin 3β-hydroxylase (GA3ox) that functions as the most likely candidate gene for Lacd1. DNA sequence analysis showed that there is an approximately 4 kb insertion in the first intron of Lac05g019500 in WJ209. Lac05g019500 is transcribed incorrectly in the dwarf mutant owing to the presence of the insertion. Moreover, the bioactive GAs decreased significantly in WJ209, and the dwarf phenotype could be restored by exogenous GA3 treatment, indicating that WJ209 is a GA-deficient mutant. All these results support the conclusion that Lac05g019500 is the Lacd1 gene. In addition, RNA-Seq revealed that many genes, including those related to plant hormones, cellular process, cell wall, membrane and response to stress, were significantly altered in WJ209 compared with the wild type. This study will aid in the use of molecular marker-assisted breeding in the dwarf sponge gourd.
In situ curing and bonding of epoxy prepregs in epoxy thermoset injection molding
Authors: Deringer Tim , Drummer Dietmar
Published: August 2021

In this study, epoxy molding compounds are combined with fast-curing epoxy prepregs in thermoset injection molding using a new integrative process. The combination is carried out under the varied parameters of mold temperatures and curing times, which are dominant factors in thermoset processing. The focus of the investigations is the bond strength in the interface resulting from these parameters, as the interface is known as the weak point of hybrid components. To identify causes for possible increases and decreases of the bond strength, additional rheological and thermoanalytical analyses are done under near-process conditions. The influence of prepreg pre-crosslinking, a function of the mold temperature, is also described by means of additional tests in which specific pre-crosslinking of the prepreg is adjusted by the temperature storage and then functionalized in integrative process combination. The aim of the study is to identify and understand initial process limits for the integrative process combination for a potential process window.
Do financial markets respond to macroeconomic surprises? Evidence from the UK
Authors: Heinlein Reinhold , Lepori Gabriele M.
Published: August 2021

We investigate the response of UK asset prices to a large set of domestic scheduled macroeconomic announcements using data at a daily frequency from 1998 to 2017. Our results are mostly consistent with economic theory and follow two general patterns: (1) a stronger-than-expected economy raises stock returns, causes the home currency to appreciate, makes the yield curve steeper, and lowers the corporate credit quality spread; (2) higher-than-anticipated inflation leads to an appreciation of the domestic currency and raises the slope of the yield curve. Surprises about retail sales, claimant count rate, GDP, and industrial production have the most prevalent effects across the four asset classes in our data set. A large number of macroeconomic announcements increase trading activity in the stock market, whereas there is barely any (only minor) evidence that announcements (surprises) affect the volatility of asset prices. We also document that the effects of macroeconomic surprises are contingent not only upon the state of the economy but also on the state of the stock market (bull vs. bear).
Physiology-based toxicokinetic modelling of aluminium in rat and man
Authors: Hethey Christoph , Hartung Niklas , Wangorsch Gaby , Weisser Karin , Huisinga Wilhelm
Published: August 2021

A sufficient quantitative understanding of aluminium (Al) toxicokinetics (TK) in man is still lacking, although highly desirable for risk assessment of Al exposure. Baseline exposure and the risk of contamination severely limit the feasibility of TK studies administering the naturally occurring isotope 27Al, both in animals and man. These limitations are absent in studies with 26Al as a tracer, but tissue data are limited to animal studies. A TK model capable of inter-species translation to make valid predictions of Al levels in humans—especially in toxicological relevant tissues like bone and brain—is urgently needed. Here, we present: (i) a curated dataset which comprises all eligible studies with single doses of 26Al tracer administered as citrate or chloride salts orally and/or intravenously to rats and humans, including ultra-long-term kinetic profiles for plasma, blood, liver, spleen, muscle, bone, brain, kidney, and urine up to 150 weeks; and (ii) the development of a physiology-based (PB) model for Al TK after intravenous and oral administration of aqueous Al citrate and Al chloride solutions in rats and humans. Based on the comprehensive curated 26Al dataset, we estimated substance-dependent parameters within a non-linear mixed-effect modelling context. The model fitted the heterogeneous 26Al data very well and was successfully validated against datasets in rats and humans. The presented PBTK model for Al, based on the most extensive and diverse dataset of Al exposure to date, constitutes a major advancement in the field, thereby paving the way towards a more quantitative risk assessment in humans.
A role for reward valuation in the serotonergic modulation of impulsivity
Authors: Desrochers Stephanie S. , Lesko Emma K. , Magalong Valerie M. , Balsam Peter D. , Nautiyal Katherine M.
Published: August 2021

Rationale

Impulsive behavior is a deleterious component of a number of mental health disorders but has few targeted pharmacotherapies. One contributing factor to the difficulty in understanding the neural substrates of disordered impulsivity is the diverse presentations of impulsive behavior. Defining the behavioral and cognitive processes which contribute to different subtypes of impulsivity is important for understanding the neural underpinnings of dysregulated impulsive behavior.

Methods

Using a mouse model for disordered impulsivity, our goal was to identify behavioral and cognitive processes that are associated with increased impulsivity. Specifically, we were interested in the facets of impulsivity modulated by serotonin signaling. We used mice lacking the serotonin 1B receptor (5-HT1BR) and measured different types of impulsivity as well as goal-directed responding, extinction, habitual-like behavior, cue reactivity, and reward reactivity.

Results

Mice lacking expression of 5-HT1BR had increased levels of impulsive action, goal-directed responding, and motivation, with no differences seen in rate of extinction, development of habitual behavior, delay discounting, or effort-based discounting. Interestingly, mice lacking 5-HT1BR expression also showed an overall increase in the choice of higher value rewards, increased hedonic responses to sweet rewards, and responded more for cues that predict reward. We developed a novel paradigm to demonstrate that increasing anticipated reward value could directly increase impulsive action. Furthermore, we found that 5-HT1BR KO-induced impulsivity could be ameliorated by decreasing the reward value relative to controls, suggesting that the increased 5-HT1BR-associated impulsive action may be a result of increased reward valuation.

Conclusions

Taken together, these data show that the effects of serotonin on impulsive action are mediated through the modulation of hedonic value, which may alter the reward representations that motivate action. Overall, this data supports a role for reward value as an important substrate in impulsive action which may drive clinically relevant increases in impulsivity.
Scaling Limits of Lattice Quantum Fields by Wavelets
Authors: Morinelli Vincenzo , Morsella Gerardo , Stottmeister Alexander , Tanimoto Yoh
Published: August 2021

We present a rigorous renormalization group scheme for lattice quantum field theories in terms of operator algebras. The renormalization group is considered as an inductive system of scaling maps between lattice field algebras. We construct scaling maps for scalar lattice fields using Daubechies’ wavelets, and show that the inductive limit of free lattice ground states exists and the limit state extends to the familiar massive continuum free field, with the continuum action of spacetime translations. In particular, lattice fields are identified with the continuum field smeared with Daubechies’ scaling functions. We compare our scaling maps with other renormalization schemes and their features, such as the momentum shell method or block-spin transformations.
Delocalization Transition for Critical Erdős–Rényi Graphs
Authors: Alt Johannes , Ducatez Raphael , Knowles Antti
Published: August 2021

We analyse the eigenvectors of the adjacency matrix of a critical Erdős–Rényi graph $${\mathbb {G}}(N,d/N)$$

G
(
N
,
d
/
N
)

, where d is of order $$\log N$$

log
N

. We show that its spectrum splits into two phases: a delocalized phase in the middle of the spectrum, where the eigenvectors are completely delocalized, and a semilocalized phase near the edges of the spectrum, where the eigenvectors are essentially localized on a small number of vertices. In the semilocalized phase the mass of an eigenvector is concentrated in a small number of disjoint balls centred around resonant vertices, in each of which it is a radial exponentially decaying function. The transition between the phases is sharp and is manifested in a discontinuity in the localization exponent $$\gamma (\varvec{\mathrm {w}})$$

γ
(

w

)

of an eigenvector $$\varvec{\mathrm {w}}$$

w

, defined through $$\Vert \varvec{\mathrm {w}} \Vert _\infty / \Vert \varvec{\mathrm {w}} \Vert _2 = N^{-\gamma (\varvec{\mathrm {w}})}$$

‖

w

‖

∞

/

‖

w

‖

2

=

N

-
γ
(

w

)

. Our results remain valid throughout the optimal regime $$\sqrt{\log N} \ll d \leqslant O(\log N)$$

log
N

≪
d
⩽
O

(
log
N
)

.
Non-local Markovian Symmetric Forms on Infinite Dimensional Spaces I. The closability and quasi-regularity
Authors: Albeverio Sergio , Kagawa Toshinao , Yahagi Yumi , Yoshida Minoru W.
Published: August 2021

General theorems on the closability and quasi-regularity of non-local Markovian symmetric forms on probability spaces $$(S, \mathcal{B}(S), \mu )$$

(
S
,
B
(
S
)
,
μ
)

, with S Fréchet spaces such that $$S \subset {{\mathbb {R}}}^{{\mathbb {N}}}$$

S
⊂

R

N

, $${{\mathcal {B}}}(S)$$

B
(
S
)

is the Borel $$\sigma $$
σ
-field of S, and $$\mu $$
μ
is a Borel probability measure on S, are introduced. Firstly, a family of non-local Markovian symmetric forms $${{\mathcal {E}}}_{(\alpha )}$$

E

(
α
)

, $$0< \alpha < 2$$

0
<
α
<
2

, acting in each given $$L^2(S; \mu )$$

L
2

(
S
;
μ
)

is defined, the index $$\alpha $$
α
characterizing the order of the non-locality. Then, it is shown that all the forms $${{\mathcal {E}}}_{(\alpha )}$$

E

(
α
)

defined on $$\bigcup _{n \in {{\mathbb {N}}}} C^{\infty }_0({{\mathbb {R}}}^n)$$

⋃

n
∈
N

C
0
∞

(

R

n

)

are closable in $$L^2(S;\mu )$$

L
2

(
S
;
μ
)

. Moreover, sufficient conditions under which the closure of the closable forms, that are Dirichlet forms, become strictly quasi-regular, are given. Finally, an existence theorem for Hunt processes properly associated to the Dirichlet forms is given. The application of the above theorems to the problem of stochastic quantizations of Euclidean $$\varPhi ^4_d$$

Φ
d
4

fields, for $$d =2, 3$$

d
=
2
,
3

, by means of these Hunt processes is indicated.
A novel CT-based automated analysis method provides comparable results with MRI in measuring brain atrophy and white matter lesions
Authors: Kaipainen Aku L , Pitkänen Johanna , Haapalinna Fanni , Jääskeläinen Olli , Jokinen Hanna , Melkas Susanna , Erkinjuntti Timo , Vanninen Ritva , Koivisto Anne M , Lötjönen Jyrki , Koikkalainen Juha , Herukka Sanna-Kaisa , Julkunen Valtteri
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Automated analysis of neuroimaging data is commonly based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but sometimes the availability is limited or a patient might have contradictions to MRI. Therefore, automated analyses of computed tomography (CT) images would be beneficial.

Methods

We developed an automated method to evaluate medial temporal lobe atrophy (MTA), global cortical atrophy (GCA), and the severity of white matter lesions (WMLs) from a CT scan and compared the results to those obtained from MRI in a cohort of 214 subjects gathered from Kuopio and Helsinki University Hospital registers from 2005 - 2016.

Results

The correlation coefficients of computational measures between CT and MRI were 0.9 (MTA), 0.82 (GCA), and 0.86 (Fazekas). CT-based measures were identical to MRI-based measures in 60% (MTA), 62% (GCA) and 60% (Fazekas) of cases when the measures were rounded to the nearest full grade variable. However, the difference in measures was 1 or less in 97–98% of cases. Similar results were obtained for cortical atrophy ratings, especially in the frontal and temporal lobes, when assessing the brain lobes separately. Bland–Altman plots and weighted kappa values demonstrated high agreement regarding measures based on CT and MRI.

Conclusions

MTA, GCA, and Fazekas grades can also be assessed reliably from a CT scan with our method. Even though the measures obtained with the different imaging modalities were not identical in a relatively extensive cohort, the differences were minor. This expands the possibility of using this automated analysis method when MRI is inaccessible or contraindicated.
Comparison of time to failure of pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy versus pembrolizumab monotherapy: a consecutive analysis of patients having NSCLC with high PD-L1 expression
Authors: Takumida Hiroshi , Horinouchi Hidehito , Masuda Ken , Shinno Yuki , Okuma Yusuke , Yoshida Tatsuya , Goto Yasushi , Yamamoto Noboru , Ohe Yuichiro
Published: August 2021

Introduction

There are two treatment strategies for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) exhibiting a high expression level of programmed death-ligand 1 (tumor proportion score ≥ 50%): pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy and monotherapy. We retrospectively compared their efficacy and safety.

Materials and methods

We reviewed the efficacy and safety of first-line pembrolizumab-containing regimens administered between 2017 and 2020 to consecutive patients. The patients were divided into a pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy group (Combo group) or monotherapy group (Mono group). To compare the efficacy, we monitored the time to failure of strategy (TFS) defined as the time from the start of treatment to the occurrence of one of the following events: the addition of any drug not included in the primary strategy, progression of cancer after complete therapy, progression and no subsequent therapy, or death, whichever occurred first. We used the propensity score matching (PSM) to reduce the bias.

Results

A total of 126 patients were identified (89 in the Mono group and 37 in the Combo group). PSM matched 36 individuals from each of the two groups. The overall response rate and median progression-free survival of the Combo group were better than those of the Mono group. However, the median TFS was almost the same (11.3 months vs. 14.9 months; hazard ratio 1.40 [95% confidence interval 0.62–3.15]). The frequency of all serious adverse effects was higher in the Combo group than in the Mono group.

Discussion

Due to similar efficacy in TFS, both pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy and monotherapy are valid options for NSCLC.
The Direct Medical Cost of Acute Appendicitis Surgery in a Resource‐Limited Setting of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Umo Ian , James Kennedy
Published: August 2021

Background

Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency, and challenges in access to surgery in a low middle‐income country can direct cost implications.

Methods

A prospective cost of illness study was conducted at Alotau Provincial Hospital (APH) from October 14, 2019, to June 1, 2020. A bottom‐up approach of microcosting was used to estimate the direct medical cost of consecutive patients with acute appendicitis undergoing surgery.

Results

The mean cost of acute appendicitis surgery for each patient was K39,517.66 (US$11,460.12) for uncomplicated appendicitis, K45,873.99 (US$13,303.46) for complicated appendicitis and K38,838.80 (US$ 11,263.25) for a normal appendix. In total, the direct medical cost for acute appendicitis in this study was K4,562,625.29 (US$ 1,323,161.33) with the majority of expenditure incurred by surgical ward expenses.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that direct medical costs for uncomplicated appendicitis surgery in a resource‐limited hospital are less expensive. As the pathology progresses, the cost also exponentially increases. Policy makers and clinicians must establish appropriate curative surgical services at secondary (NOM of acute appendicitis and laparoscopic surgery) and primary health‐care levels to address acute appendicitis surgery as this can reduce costs.