bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
5‐Ethylidene‐2‐norbornene Polymerization by α‐Diimine Nickel Catalyst: A Revealing Insight into the Pivotal Function of Binuclear and Mononuclear Catalyst Structure in Tailoring Polymer Architecture
Authors: Mansouri Samira , Omidvar Mojtaba , Mortazavi Seyed Mohammad Mahdi , Ahmadjo Saeid
Published: January 2022

The present investigation is undertaken to provide a deeper understanding of the 5‐ethylidene‐2‐norbornene (ENB) homopolymerization. To this end, binuclear and mononuclear nickel α‐diimine catalysts, as well as modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) as a cocatalyst, are selected and utilized. Al/Ni ratio of 1000 coupled with a temperature 25 °C and a polymerization time 12 h are chosen as the optimal statistics. It is shown that the highest obtained activity for binuclear and mononuclear catalysts are 511 and 478 kg polymer/mol, respectively. Thereafter, the characterization of the obtained poly 5‐ethylidene‐2‐norbornene (PENB) is performed by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Concerning the glass transition of cyclic polyolefin, DSC analysis reveals that catalyst structure is a determining factor (Tg binuclear: 176 °C and Tg mononuclear: 140 °C). As validated by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), it is realized that the alteration in the catalyst structure exerts a far‐reaching influence on the polymer architecture. Surprisingly unexpectedly, excluding addition polymerization, an in‐depth examination of polymer structure uncovers the potentially tenable participation of both cationic and ring‐opening polymerization, albeit, with a diversified degree of contribution. Lastly, PENB is functionalized with three functional groups, and then the successful grafting of polar functional groups into modified cyclic polyolefin backbone is confirmed by NMR and FTIR spectroscopy.
Effective magnetic susceptibility of 3D‐printed porous metal scaffolds
Authors: Hong Greg , Liu Junmin , Cobos Santiago F. , Khazaee Tina , Drangova Maria , Holdsworth David W.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

3D‐printed porous metal scaffolds are a promising emerging technology in orthopedic implant design. Compared to solid metal implants, porous metal implants have lower magnetic susceptibility values, which have a direct impact on imaging time and image quality. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between porosity and effective susceptibility through quantitative estimates informed by comparing coregistered scanned and simulated field maps.

Methods

Five porous scaffold cylinders were designed and 3D‐printed in titanium alloy (Ti‐6Al‐4V) with nominal porosities ranging from 60% to 90% using a cellular sheet‐based gyroid design. The effective susceptibility of each cylinder was estimated by comparing acquired B0 field maps against simulations of a solid cylinder of varying assigned magnetic susceptibility, where the orientation and volume of interest of the simulations was informed by a custom alignment phantom.

Results

Magnitude images and field maps showed obvious decreases in artifact size and field inhomogeneity with increasing porosity. The effective susceptibility was found to be linearly correlated with porosity (R2 = 0.9993). The extrapolated 100% porous (no metal) magnetic susceptibility was −9.9 ppm, closely matching the expected value of pure water (−9 ppm), indicating a reliable estimation of susceptibility.

Conclusion

Effective susceptibility of porous metal scaffolds is linearly correlated with porosity. Highly porous implants have sufficiently low effective susceptibilities to be more amenable to routine imaging with MRI.
Causes and consequences of diagnostic delay in Guillain‐Barré syndrome in a UK tertiary center
Authors: Bose Smriti , Loo Lay Khoon , Rajabally Yusuf A.
Published: January 2022

Introduction/Aims

Understanding the potential causes and consequences of diagnostic delay in Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) could improve quality of care and outcomes. We aimed to determine these causes and consequences in our cohort of patients with GBS.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed records of subjects with GBS, admitted to our center at University Hospitals Birmingham, UK, between January 2005 and December 2020. We evaluated time to diagnosis from presentation, factors associated with diagnostic delay, and its potential consequences.

Results

We included 119 consecutive subjects. Diagnostic delay at least 5 days from first presentation occurred in 27 of 119 (22.7%) of patients. Diagnostic delay was associated with age >60 years (odds ratio [OR], 3.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44‐8.85), pre‐existing cardiac/respiratory disease (OR, 4.10; 95% CI, 1.46‐11.54), pre‐existing diabetes (OR, 10.38; 95% CI, 2.47‐43.69), documented normal initial neurological examination (OR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.03‐6.02), initial assessment by primary care (OR, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.22‐9.10) and at least one visit for medical attention (OR, 10.29; 95% CI, 3.81‐27.77). Diagnostic delay was not associated with length of inpatient stay, intensive care unit admission, ventilation, ability to walk at discharge, or inpatient mortality. Independent associations with diagnostic delay were observed for at least one visit for medical attention (OR, 10.15; 95% CI, 3.64‐28.32) and pre‐existing cardiac/respiratory disease (OR, 3.98; 95% CI, 1.19‐13.28). An association of diagnostic delay with inpatient mortality was ascertained specifically in subjects with classic GBS (OR, 5.33; 95% CI, 1.1‐25.87).

Discussion

Diagnostic delay in GBS results from patient‐specific factors and patient pathways. A high index of suspicion is appropriate for certain patient groups. Prospective studies are needed to further investigate this topic.
A review of the efficacy of appetite stimulating medications in hospitalized adults
Authors: Steiner Lea , Brunetti Luigi , Roberts Susan , Ziegler Jane
Published: January 2022

Background

The majority of evidence on efficacy of appetite‐stimulating medications is limited to specific populations and the outpatient treatment setting. However, hospitalized adults remain at risk for poor appetite and inadequate intake.

Method

The purpose of this review was to assess recent evidence on the efficacy of dronabinol, megestrol acetate, and mirtazapine (used to stimulate appetite) on promoting change in intake; somatic symptoms, such as appetite and nausea; and weight change during hospital stay. The population was limited to hospitalized adults or adults who demonstrated a need for appetite stimulation during hospitalization.

Results

Of the 382 articles screened, four met inclusion criteria (one randomized control trial, two retrospective cohort studies, and one retrospective case series). Based on the studies included, these appetite stimulants have limited efficacy on improving appetite and meal intake. There was no significant change in weight.

Conclusion

Current data lack standardization, generalizability, and comparability, and higher quality evidence is needed before conclusions can be identified on the efficacy of dronabinol, megestrol acetate, and mirtazapine in the inpatient setting.
Power generation control of restructured hybrid power system with FACTS and energy storage devices using optimal cascaded fractional‐order controller
Authors: Farooq Zahid , Rahman Asadur , Lone Shameem Ahmad
Published: January 2022

This work presents power generation control of a two‐area hybrid restructured power system, initially integrated with renewable energy source (RES) and electric vehicle (EV). For further analysis, additional inclusion of FACTS and energy storage devices in the two‐area hybrid restructured power system is to be analyzed for improved system dynamics. The hybrid restructured power system is a complex nonlinear system that brings light to the major problem of system dynamic control due to insufficient damping under varying loading circumstances. To solve this problem, a robust control approach with rapid acting controllable and storage devices are an immediate need for advanced power system. Motivated from the fact that cascaded fractional order controllers exhibit better performance in comparison to classical controllers, this article proposes an advanced cascaded fractional‐order ID‐fractional‐order PD (cascaded FOID‐FOPD) controller for system performance enhancement of hybrid restructured power system. The maiden application of satin bower bird optimizer technique to optimize the secondary controller gains is employed. The proposed controller's superiority is demonstrated by comparing the results to the other existing controllers. The impact of RES's generation and EVs on system dynamics for cascaded FOID‐FOPD controller is also explored. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis is done to reflect that optimized gains of cascaded FOID‐FOPD controller are supportive enough for variations in RESs, load perturbations, capacity ratio, and disco participation matrix.
Perioperative cangrelor in patients with recent percutaneous coronary intervention undergoing liver transplantation: A case series
Authors: Succar Luma , Lopez Chelsea N. , Victor David W. , Lindberg Scott A. , Saharia Ashish , Sheth Samar , Mobley Constance M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Management of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in the perioperative setting is challenging, particularly in complex patient populations, such as those with underlying coagulopathy and/or recent percutaneous coronary interventions.

Methods

In this case series, we describe the perioperative use of cangrelor bridge therapy in two patients undergoing liver transplantation after recent coronary drug‐eluting stent placement.

Outcomes

In both patient cases, cangrelor use as a P2Y12 bridge at a dose of 0.75 μg/kg/min was safe and effective. Both patients were successfully switched back to their oral DAPT regimen post‐operatively without additive bleeding or thrombotic complications.

Conclusion

The use of cangrelor as bridge therapy in high‐risk perioperative liver transplant patients appears to be a viable option when DAPT is warranted.
Methodologic implications for rehabilitation research: Differences in heart rate variability introduced by respiration
Authors: Solinsky Ryan , Schleifer Grant D. , Draghici Adina E. , Hamner Jason W. , Taylor J. Andrew
Published: January 2022

Background

Heart rate variability is a measure of autonomic activity that is growing in popularity as a research outcome. However, despite its increased use, the known effects of respiration on heart rate variability measures are rarely accounted for in rehabilitation medicine research, leading to potential misinterpretation.

Objective

To describe the effect that unpaced and paced breathing introduces to heart rate variability measures in a rehabilitation medicine relevant example of individuals with spinal cord injury.

Design

Cross‐sectional comparison of heart rate variability during unpaced and paced breathing (0.25 Hz, 15 breaths per minute) within the same individuals during the same lab session.

Setting

Academic autonomic physiology laboratory.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Mean low frequency (LF) and high frequency (HF) heart rate variability power, percentage of total power derived from the LF spectrum, LF:HF ratio.

Results

Fifty‐nine individuals with spinal cord injury completed laboratory assessments using standardized protocols (NCT02139436). In repeated measures within individuals, mean LF power was significantly higher in unpaced breathing compared to paced breathing (1292 vs. 573 ms2, p < .001). A Bland‐Altman plot demonstrated significant positive proportional bias for LF power when comparing unpaced and paced breathing conditions (R2 = 0.39). Mean HF power was similar between unpaced and paced breathing conditions, although there were wide positive and negative differences between measures, leading to notable uncertainty when respiratory confounders were not accounted for. The percentages of total power derived from the LF spectrum and the mean LF:HF ratio were both significantly higher for unpaced breathing compared to paced breathing (64 vs. 42%, p < .001; and 3.2 vs. 1.1, p < .001, respectively).

Conclusion

Respiration has a significant effect on heart rate variability following spinal cord injury, and not accounting for this has serious consequences for accurate interpretation of unpaced data. Future studies of heart rate variability in rehabilitation medicine should accordingly consider paced breathing.
The impact of acute skeletal muscle loss after gastrointestinal cancer surgery on physical function
Authors: Tanaka Kohei , Taoda Ayano , Kashiwagi Hirohiko
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Significant skeletal muscle loss occurs commonly after cancer surgery; however, the impact of postoperative acute skeletal muscle loss on physical function remains poorly understood.

Objective

To determine the impact of surgery‐associated acute skeletal muscle wasting on physical function in the early postoperative period in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.

Design

A single‐center retrospective observational study.

Setting

General hospital.

Patients

Hospitalized patients with gastrointestinal cancer who were admitted for surgery.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome was the partial correlation between postoperative changes in skeletal muscle index (SMI) and physical function such as handgrip strength, gait speed, and 6‐minute walk test.

Results

A total of 69 patients (41 male and 28 female) with a mean age of 70.5 years were included. SMI was significantly correlated with physical function, such as handgrip strength (r = 0.757, p < .001), maximum gait speed (r = 0.318, p = .008), and 6‐minute walk test (r = 0.365, p = .002) before surgery. In contrast, partial correlation analysis between the absolute changes in SMI and physical function after controlling for SMI and each physical function before surgery showed no significant correlation. Multivariable linear regression analyses also showed that postoperative change in SMI was not significantly associated with the postoperative change in physical function but it was associated with the length of stay after surgery, SMI at admission, and absolute change in body fat percentage.

Conclusions

The absolute change in SMI during the early postoperative period was not linearly correlated with the degree of decline in physical function. Further studies are necessary to investigate the effects of the respective changes in skeletal muscle mass and physical function on clinical outcomes.
Capsaicin inhibits the stemness of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma cells by triggering autophagy‐lysosome mediated OCT4A degradation
Authors: Wu Liying , Xu Shichen , Cheng Xian , Zhang Li , Wang Yunping , Wu Jing , Bao Jiandong , Yu Huixin , Lu Rongrong
Published: January 2022

Capsaicin (CAP) is a well‐known anti‐cancer agent. Recently, we reported capsaicin‐induced apoptosis in anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) cells. It is well accepted that the generation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is responsible for the dedifferentiation of ATC, the most lethal subtype of thyroid cancer with highly dedifferentiation status. Whether CAP inhibited the ATC growth through targeting CSCs needed further investigation. In the present study, CAP was found to induce autophagy in ATC cells through TRPV1 activation and subsequent calcium influx. Meanwhile, CAP dose‐dependently decreased the sphere formation capacity of ATC cells. The stemness‐inhibitory effect of CAP was further by extreme limiting dilution analysis (ELDA). CAP significantly decreased the protein level of OCT4A in both 8505C and FRO cells. Furthermore, CAP‐induced OCT4A degradation was reversed by autophagy inhibitors 3‐MA and chloroquine, BAPTA‐AM and capsazepine, but not proteasome inhibitor MG132. Collectively, our study firstly showed CAP suppressed the stemness of ATC cells partially via calcium‐dependent autophagic degradation of OCT4A. Our study lent credence to the feasible application of capsaicin in limiting ATC stemness.
Sequential modeling for a class of reference‐based imputation methods in clinical trials with quantitative or binary outcomes
Authors: Fang Yixin , Jin Man
Published: January 2022

We consider treatment effect estimation in a randomized clinical trial with longitudinally measured quantitative or categorical outcomes. To handle missing data, we usually assume missing at random and then conduct sensitivity analysis for missing not at random. In the literature, several reference‐based imputation methods, including “jump to reference” (J2R) and “copy reference” (CR), have been commonly used for conducting sensitivity analysis. J2R assumes the mean effect profile of patients who discontinue the investigative treatment jumps to that of the patients in the reference group after discontinuation, while CR assumes the conditional mean effect profile given the status prior to the time of discontinuation copies that of the patients in the reference group after discontinuation. In this article, we propose a novel, wide class of reference‐based imputation methods for conducting sensitivity analysis, which includes J2R and CR as two extreme ends. The framework is motivated by the thought that the investigative treatment may have no, partially, or fully carried‐over effect after deviation from the assigned treatment (eg, discontinue the assigned treatment or change to a different treatment). Further, we show that the proposed reference‐based imputation methods can be implemented through sequential modeling. This property ensures that the methods can be applied to clinical trials with either quantitative or categorical outcomes. We use both causal‐inference arguments and numerical examples to demonstrate the performance of the proposed methods.
Surgical and medical management of an oral spindle cell sarcoma in an African hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris)
Authors: Lacqua Andrew , Dreizen Rebecca , Helmer Peter
Published: January 2022

A 2.5‐year‐old male African hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) presented with an intraoral, soft tissue mass overlying the left mandible. A computed tomography scan and subsequent fine needle aspirate suggested a malignant spindle cell tumour. The tumour was excised with a partial hemimandibulectomy. Histopathology demonstrated an incompletely excised spindle cell sarcoma. The hedgehog underwent adjuvant therapy consisting of intravenous carboplatin and oral lomustine, followed by palliative radiation therapy once tumour recurrence was noted on follow‐up surveillance. Radiation therapy was initially successful in decreasing tumour size, but the hedgehog re‐presented a month later acutely non‐ambulatory paraparetic with a distal right antebrachial mass. Diagnostics including radiographs and fine needle aspirate were consistent with metastatic neoplasia and humane euthanasia was elected.
Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor‐induced regulation of RNA metabolism in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity
Authors: Costa Rui O. , Martins Luís F. , Tahiri Emanuel , Duarte Carlos B.
Published: January 2022

The neurotrophin brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays multiple roles in the nervous system, including in neuronal development, in long‐term synaptic potentiation in different brain regions, and in neuronal survival. Alterations in these regulatory mechanisms account for several diseases of the nervous system. The synaptic effects of BDNF mediated by activation of tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) receptors are partly mediated by stimulation of local protein synthesis which is now considered a ubiquitous feature in both presynaptic and postsynaptic compartments of the neuron. The capacity to locally synthesize proteins is of great relevance at several neuronal developmental stages, including during neurite development, synapse formation, and stabilization. The available evidence shows that the effects of BDNF–TrkB signaling on local protein synthesis regulate the structure and function of the developing and mature synapses. While a large number of studies have illustrated a wide range of effects of BDNF on the postsynaptic proteome, a growing number of studies also point to presynaptic effects of the neurotrophin in the local regulation of the protein composition at the presynaptic level. Here, we will review the latest evidence on the role of BDNF in local protein synthesis, comparing the effects on the presynaptic and postsynaptic compartments. Additionally, we overview the relevance of BDNF‐associated local protein synthesis in neuronal development and synaptic plasticity, at the presynaptic and postsynaptic compartments, and their relevance in terms of disease.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization
Paddy Fields as Green Infrastructure: Their Ecosystem Services and Threatening Drivers
Authors: Osawa Takeshi , Nishida Takaaki , Oka Takashi
Published: January 2022

The paddy field is a typical ecosystem in monsoon Asia. The main purpose of a paddy field is food production (i.e., a provisioning ecosystem service), but it also has several other ecosystem services. Therefore, we can consider paddy fields as components of green infrastructure (GI) that are already widely distributed. To maintain and improve the value of paddy fields as GI, we should strive to maintain and improve other ecosystem services besides provisioning services. However, issues that reduce the value of paddy fields as GI remain, and these are related to the consolidation and abandonment of paddy fields in recent years. In this paper, we focus on two ecosystem services of paddy fields, other than the provisioning service: (1) the habitat service and (2) the regulating service. Both these services are relatively well-evaluated ecosystem services of paddy fields in Japan. We discuss the effects of both consolidation and abandonment on these ecosystem services as well as their corresponding countermeasures. Based on this, we also discuss the challenges in applying and expanding the idea of paddy fields as GI.
Natural Succession of Wetland Vegetation in a Flood-Control Pond Constructed on Abandoned Farmland
Authors: Morimoto Junko , Goto Susumu , Kuroyanagi Akito , Toyoshima Motoko , Shida Yuichiro
Published: January 2022

Can a flood-control basin be considered a component of green infrastructure (GI) with not only disaster prevention functions but also biodiversity conservation functions? We studied the succession of wetland vegetation in a flood-control basin constructed in a floodplain. The number of species composing the buried seeds depended on the depth of the soil layer, with shallower (recent) layers having more species. Plants germinated from buried seeds in deep (ancient) soil layers were small and difficult to identify based on morphology alone, but DNA-based analyses made it possible to identify these species. The occurrence of three species of Juncus and Cyperus in the peat layer that developed between 840 and 1215 years ago indicates that it is possible to regenerate wetland plants from the past if the buried seeds are well preserved and in good condition. The excavated section of the experimental site, which was set in part of the flood-control basin, received dispersed seeds from the surrounding agricultural land and contained more species than did the soil layer itself. The shallower the water depth was (the shallower the excavation depth), the greater the number of species that occurred. In addition, species with different life forms occurred depending on the water depth. More species occurred in the entire flood-control basin than in the experimental site. The factors that determined the type of plant community were years since excavation, water depth, and water quality. Finally, we discussed the management practices concerning the supply of propagules and the management of suitable habitats as essential factors for flood-control basins constructed on fallow land to function as GI.
Changes in the Use of Green Spaces by Citizens Before and During the First COVID-19 Pandemic: A Big Data Analysis Using Mobile-Tracking GPS Data in Kanazawa, Japan
Authors: Ueno Yusuke , Kato Sadahisa , Mase Tomoka , Funamoto Yoji , Hasegawa Keiichi
Published: January 2022

To consider green spaces and parks as valuable green infrastructure that provides various socio-ecological benefits, including health, this study analyzed changes in the use of green spaces before and during the first COVID-19 pandemic in Japan, using mobile-tracking GPS data of Kanazawa citizens. The results showed that the declaration of a state of emergency in April–May 2020 changed the outing behavior of Kanazawa citizens, and there was a strong tendency for them to avoid going out, with a decrease in the number, time, and distance of outings. On the other hand, while citizens refrained from going out, the rate of decrease in the number of visits to green spaces was smaller compared to commercial areas, and the number of walks increased slightly from 2019. The distance traveled to green spaces is generally shorter in 2020, and the number of visits to green spaces near one’s home increased in 2020. These findings suggest that those who had green spaces around their homes were able to use them for maintaining their health and refreshment during the COVID-19 pandemic, adding to the increasing evidence for the value of urban green spaces as part of nature-based solutions.
Toward an Equitable Distribution of Urban Green Spaces for People and Landscapes: An Opportunity for Portland’s Green Grid
Authors: Shandas Vivek , Hellman Dana
Published: January 2022

Portland, Oregon, has a relatively long history of progressive planning, environmental protection, and implementation of green infrastructure (GI) projects, enjoying associated benefits such as temperature reduction, energy savings, and aesthetic improvements. These efforts, while resulting in a robust suite of GI across the city, must be better coordinated to meet the challenges of the future. In this chapter, we provide an overview of GI implementation in Portland, emphasizing key projects and policies, as well as ongoing disparities in access to GI and its benefits. We then discuss the potential for activating a green grid in Portland by linking existing nodes of GI for maximum benefit. In addition to amplifying the positive biophysical effects of GI, we suggest that this approach can help alleviate ongoing socioeconomic disparities that make some communities more vulnerable to climate change and environmental degradation.
Governance for Realizing Multifunctional Floodplain: Flood Control, Agriculture, and Biodiversity in Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, California, USA
Authors: Kamada Mahito , Nishihiro Jun , Nakamura Futoshi
Published: January 2022

Yolo Bypass (YB) is an engineered floodplain bypass for flood control in Sacrament River Valley in California, USA. Although the main purpose of the YB is to prevent the capital city of Sacramento and nearby riverside communities, the bypass provides wildlife habitats for various organisms and a good farming ground for multiple seasonal crops. Thus, we can refer to this facility as green infrastructure. We conducted an interview with key persons involving in the establishment and management of Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area (YBWA) in 2015 and reviewed the history of collaboration of various sectors with literature mining. Finally, we clarified the schematic relationship of stakeholders in the establishment and management of YBWA in which federal, state, and local entities and individuals take years of meetings, discussions, negotiation, and trust-building to reach consensus for restoration and management of the wildlife area.
Analysis of the Description of the Multifunctionality of Farmland in the Administrative Plans of Local Municipalities
Authors: Masuda Yosuke , Oka Takashi , Yoshinari Erika , Nishida Takaaki , Ikeda Tadashi
Published: January 2022

Farmland has various beneficial functions, such as flood control, water purification, and habitat provision, in addition to food production. These functions are highly compatible with green infrastructure, and the use of farmland as green infrastructure has been discussed in recent years. In order to utilize these functions of farmland, it is preferable to include their usefulness and utilization measures in administrative plans and link them to actual projects. In this research, we collected eight types of administrative plans from local governments across Japan that could be related to the multifunctionality of farmland and reviewed the extent to which they contain descriptions of the multifunctionality of farmland as basic information for promoting the utilization of the multifunctionality of farmland. As a result, we discovered that farmland’s multifunctionality was incorporated into the plans of many municipalities. Municipalities with a certain population size and a high financial strength index, in particular, tended to mention the multifunctional role of farmland in their plans more frequently. In addition, we found that some of the functions were mentioned less frequently in the plans. While descriptions of “conservation of natural environment” and “landscape/culture formation and recreation” were common in many plans, descriptions of “disaster mitigation and response” and “water and food supply” in times of disaster were less common. Finally, we drew some recommendations that can be used as a reference for future planning and project promotion, including dissemination of knowledge and information of farmland’s multifunctionality to government and citizens.
Riparian Forests and Climate Change: Interactive Zone of Green and Blue Infrastructure
Authors: Nakamura Futoshi
Published: January 2022

Riparian forests are recognized as green/blue infrastructure that provides various ecosystem services, including water transport, shade from sunlight energy, supply of leaf litter, input of terrestrial insect, delivery of large wood, maintenance of water quality, and corridors for wildlife. However, these forests have already experienced negative impacts from various anthropogenic stressors, such as forest cutting, agricultural development, river regulation, and dam construction. Moreover, the climate projections for the twenty-first century in Japan indicate that mean precipitation may increase by more than 10%, and other projections predict an increase in the frequency of high-magnitude floods and a reduction in the discharge of snowmelt floods. In this chapter, we describe probable changes in the structure and function of riparian forests that might result and describe adaption strategies to reduce the potential impacts of climate change on stream and riparian ecosystems exacerbated by anthropogenic stressors.
Improvement of the Flood-Reduction Function of Forests Based on Their Interception Evaporation and Surface Storage Capacities
Authors: Tamura Takao
Published: January 2022

Forests have a flood-reduction function that reduces flood peak flow and delays the flood peak time. In the mountains of Japan, artificial forests planted between the 1950s and 1970s are widespread; however, many of these forests are not well managed. The effective use of the flood-reduction function of forests as a remarkable approach for river basin management has been discussed for several years. In this study, two aspects of the water cycle in forests were explored: the interception evaporation process in the forest canopy and the groundwater storage process on the forest slope. A runoff model was applied to the hydrological data obtained in several forest basins with different characteristics to evaluate the effects of the processes. In the case of the Japanese cedar plantations studied, it was suggested that the improvement of interception evaporation capacity and surface storage capacity by conversion to mixed forests and selective logging would significantly reduce the peak flood discharge on a timescale of approximately 20–30 years.
Forest Green Infrastructure to Protect Water Quality: A Step-by-Step Guide for Payment Schemes
Authors: Nisbet Thomas R. , Andreucci Maria-Beatrice , De Vreese Rik , Högbom Lars , Kay Sonja , Kelly-Quinn Mary , Leonardi Alessandro , Lyubenova Mariyana I. , Pol Paola Ovando , Quinteiro Paula , Silos Ignacio Pérez , Valatin Gregory
Published: January 2022

This chapter describes how to design appropriate and cost-effective forest green infrastructure for water payment schemes to protect and improve water quality. It is structured by the main steps involved in establishing a payment scheme, starting with identifying the water issues and how tree planting and forest management can help, managing potential disbenefits and exploring multiple benefits, followed by scheme design, monitoring and communication. The approach is relevant to all actors involved in sustainable water management, farming and forestry, from policy makers, catchment planners and land managers to private investors, practitioners and local communities. We provide a common language and framework to help ensure schemes are successful in delivering water and other ecosystem services while minimising possible trade-offs (such as the potential for tree planting to reduce water resources).
Equivalence of JT gravity and near-extremal black hole dynamics in higher derivative theory
Authors: Banerjee Nabamita , Mandal Taniya , Rudra Arnab , Saha Muktajyoti
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Two derivative Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) gravity theory captures the near-horizon dynamics of higher dimensional near-extremal black holes, which is governed by a Schwarzian action at the boundary in the near-horizon region. The partition function corresponding to this boundary action correctly gives the statistical entropy of the near-extremal black hole. In this paper, we study the thermodynamics of spherically symmetric four-dimensional near-extremal black holes in presence of arbitrary perturbative four derivative corrections. We find that the near-horizon dynamics is again captured by a JT-like action with a particular namely R2 higher derivative modification. Effectively the theory is described by a boundary Schwarzian action which gets suitably modified due to the presence of the higher derivative interactions. Near-extremal entropy, free energy also get corrected accordingly.
Planar solutions of higher-spin theory. Nonlinear corrections
Authors: Didenko V. E. , Korybut A. V.
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Leading order higher-spin corrections to the linearized higher-spin black brane are analyzed in four dimensions. It is shown that the static solution that respects planar symmetry exists in the bosonic case at given order. Its higher-spin Weyl tensors are found in a closed form and are shown to have the double copy origin. The effect of higher-spin fields to form a strictly positive scalar condensate for any values of higher-spin charges is observed.
Information transfer with a twist
Authors: Uhlemann Christoph F.
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Holographic duals for CFTs compactified on a Riemann surface Σ with a twist are cast in the language of wedge holography. Σ starts as part of the field theory geometry in the UV and becomes part of the internal space in the IR. This allows to associate entanglement entropies with splits of the internal space in the IR geometry. Decomposing the internal space in the IR and geometrizing the corresponding subsystems separately leads to two interacting gravitational systems, similar to the intermediate holographic description in braneworld models. For Σ = T2 the setups are used to model information transfer from a black hole to a gravitating bath. This leads to Page curves with a phase structure which precisely mirrors that in braneworld models. The transition from geometric to non-geometric entropies is also discussed for Σ = S2 as a model for more general internal spaces in AdS/CFT.
Taxonomy of brane gravity localisations
Authors: Erickson C. W. , Leung Rahim , Stelle K. S.
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Generating an effective theory of lower-dimensional gravity on a submanifold within an original higher-dimensional theory can be achieved even if the reduction space is non-compact. Localisation of gravity on such a lower-dimensional worldvolume can be interpreted in a number of ways. The first scenario, Type I, requires a mathematically consistent Kaluza-Klein style truncation down to a theory in the lower dimension, in which case solutions purely within that reduced theory exist. However, that situation is not a genuine localisation of gravity because all such solutions have higher-dimensional source extensions according to the Kaluza-Klein ansatz. Also, there is no meaningful notion of Newton’s constant for such Type I constructions.

Types II and III admit coupling to genuinely localised sources in the higher-dimensional theory, with corresponding solutions involving full sets of higher-dimensional modes. Type II puts no specific boundary conditions near the worldvolume aside from regularity away from sources. In a case where the wave equation separated in the non-compact space transverse to the worldvolume admits a normalisable zero mode, the Type III scenario requires boundary conditions near the worldvolume that permit the inclusion of that zero mode in mode expansions for gravitational wave fluctuations or potentials. In such a case, an effective theory of lower-dimensional gravity can emerge at sufficiently large worldvolume distance scales.

This taxonomy of brane gravity localisations is developed in detail for linearised perturbations about a background incorporating the vacuum solution of Salam-Sezgin theory when embedded into ten-dimensional supergravity with a hyperbolic non-compact transverse space. Interpretations of the Newton constant for the corresponding Type III localisation are then analysed.
Accompanying injuries in tibial shaft fractures: how often is there an additional violation of the posterior malleolus and which factors are predictive? A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lisitano Leonard , Mayr Edgar , Rau Kim , Wiedl Andreas , Reuter Jan , Foerch Stefan
Published: January 2022

Introduction

An undislocated fracture of the posterior malleolus is a common concomitant injury in tibial shaft spiral fractures. Nevertheless, these accompanying injuries cannot always be reliably assessed using conventional X-rays. Thus, the aim of the study is to evaluate how often a fracture of the posterior malleolus occurs with tibial shaft fractures (AO:42A/B/C and AO:43A) and which factors—identifiable in conventional X-rays—are predictive.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of X-ray and CT images revealed a total of 103 patients with low-energy tibial shaft fractures without direct joint involvement. Proximal fractures and fractures involving the knee were excluded. Basic data on injury, the trauma mechanism, the path of the fracture, bony avulsions of the posterior syndesmosis and the procedures performed were evaluated.

Results

Thirty-nine fractures were located in the middle third of the tibia, 64 in the distal third. In 65 cases, a spiral fracture (simple or wedge fracture) was found. In 31/103 fractures, an additional osseous avulsion of the posterior syndesmosis could be detected, 5 (16.1%) of them were not recognized preoperatively due to an absence of CT imaging. In three of these patients, a fracture of the posterior malleolus was only recognized postoperatively, and an additional surgery was necessary. The spiral fractures were classified in the a.p. X-ray according to their path from lateral proximal to medial distal (Type A) or from medial proximal to lateral distal (Type B).

A Pearson chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test showed a highly significant accumulation of accompanying posterior malleolus fractures for type A fractures (p = 0.001), regardless of the location of the fracture. In addition, the fractures with involvement of the posterior malleolus had a significantly higher proportion in the fractures of the distal third (p = 0.003).

There was no statistically significant relationship between the height of the fracture and the path of the fracture (type A or B). These two factors seem to be independent factors for participation of the posterior malleolus.

Conclusion

In 40.6% of the tibial shaft fractures in the distal third, in 56.9% of the type A spiral fractures and in 67.6% of the type A fractures in the distal third, the ankle joint is involved with bony avulsion of the posterior syndesmosis, which is not always recognized in conventional X-rays. To avoid complications such as additional operations, instability and post-traumatic arthrosis, we recommend preoperative imaging of the ankle using CT for these fractures.

Level of evidence

III, retrospective cohort study.

Trail registration number

DRKS00024536.
Development of a nozzle capillary viscometer for inline viscosity measurement of thermoplastics
Authors: Wappler Peter , Horter Tim , Kulkarni Romit , Guenther Thomas , Fritz Karl-Peter , Zimmermann André
Published: January 2022

Todays continuous improvement and advancement in the injection molding process for plastics allow for increasing reliability of the process parameter control, whereas the fluctuations of the material properties still present a great challenge. To compensate for these fluctuations, a nozzle capillary rheometer is developed with the aim to determine the viscosity inline during the injection process in series production applications. An essential part of this work is the signal processing and the definition of a suitable integration boundary to ensure a reliable signal evaluation. In addition, based on mathematical modeling and established correction factors, it is possible to determine the effective viscosity accurately without the need to replace the capillary channel according to the Bagley correction.
A climate perspective of the quasi-stationary front in southwestern China: structure, variation and impact
Authors: Cai Danping , Tao Lingfeng , Yang Xiu-Qun , Sang Xiaozhuo , Fang Jiabei , Sun Xuguang , Wang Weiping , Yan Hongming
Published: January 2022

Yunnan–Guizhou quasi-stationary front (YGQSF) is a unique weather phenomenon that frequently occurs during the winter half year over the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau in southwestern China. Most of the previous studies analyzed it only with synoptic cases. This study investigates the structure, variation, and impact of this front from a climate perspective, using long-term high-resolution atmospheric reanalyses and high-density station records for 1981–2016. An objective method quantifying YGQSF is proposed and three indexes are defined to measure its intensity, frequency, and location, respectively, with horizontal gradient of air potential temperature at a terrain-following level of sigma 0.995. With these indexes, climatological structure, subseasonal variability as well as climatic impact of the front are comprehensively examined. In climatology, YGQSF as a north–south-oriented low-level front is found to occur the most frequently during January–February–March, determined predominately by the coldness from the east of the front. The structure of the front identified essentially reflects an obstruction of high-terrain Yunnan (the western part of the plateau) to the low-level cold air mass, which makes near-surface cold northeasterly winds cease westward intruding and veer upward over relatively low-terrain Guizhou, transporting moisture upward and forming low clouds. A sharp climate contrast is thus formed between two sides of the front: cold, sunless, and continuously rainy Guizhou versus warm and sunny Yunnan. Furthermore, the front features significant subseasonal variations with periods at around 30 days and 60 days largely in its intensity. Anomalously strong YGQSF events which are caused 75% by the cold anomaly from the east but no more than 17% by the warm anomaly from the west yield different anomalous structures, but consistently amplify the sharp climate contrast between Yunnan and Guizhou.
Effects of matcha tea extract on cell viability and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ expression on T47D breast cancer cells
Authors: Keckstein Simon , Tilgener Constantin , Jeschke Udo , Hofmann Simone , Vilsmaier Theresa , Kaltofen Till , Heidegger Helene , Batz Falk , Mahner Sven , Schröder Lennard
Published: January 2022

Purpose

In the following work, we investigated the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ)-dependent proliferation behavior of breast cancer cells after stimulation with matcha green tea extract (MTE).

Methods

T47D cells were stimulated with MTE at concentrations of 5, 10 and 50 µg/ml. Cell viability was assessed using a WST-1 assay after an incubation time of 72 h. PPARγ expression was quantified at the gene level by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A western blot (WB) was carried out for the qualitative assessment of the expression behavior of on a protein level.

Results

The WST-1 test showed a significant inhibition of viability in T47D cells after 72 h at 5, 10 and 50 µg/ml. The PCR showed an overexpression of PPARγ in T47D cells in all concentrations. At the concentration of 50 µg/ml the expression was significantly increased (p < 0.05). The WB demonstrated a significant quantitative increase of PPARγ at protein level with MTE concentrations of 10 and 50 µg/ml. In addition, there was a negative correlation between the overexpression of PPAR γ and the inhibition of proliferation.

Conclusion

MTE decreases the cell viability of T47D cells and furthermore leads to an overexpression of PPARγ on protein and mRNA level.
Local Routing in Sparse and Lightweight Geometric Graphs
Authors: Ashvinkumar Vikrant , Gudmundsson Joachim , Levcopoulos Christos , Nilsson Bengt J. , Renssen André van
Published: January 2022

Online routing in a planar embedded graph is central to a number of fields and has been studied extensively in the literature. For most planar graphs no O(1)-competitive online routing algorithm exists. A notable exception is the Delaunay triangulation for which Bose and Morin (SIAM J Comput 33(4):937–951, 2004) showed that there exists an online routing algorithm that is O(1)-competitive. However, a Delaunay triangulation can have $$\varOmega (n)$$

Ω
(
n
)

vertex degree and a total weight that is a linear factor greater than the weight of a minimum spanning tree. We show a simple construction, given a set V of n points in the Euclidean plane, of a planar geometric graph on V that has small weight (within a constant factor of the weight of a minimum spanning tree on V), constant degree, and that admits a local routing strategy that is O(1)-competitive. Moreover, the technique used to bound the weight works generally for any planar geometric graph whilst preserving the admission of an O(1)-competitive routing strategy.