bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective foraging behavior of seabirds in small‐scale slicks
Authors: Lieber Lilian , Füchtencordsjürgen Cynthia , Hilder Rebecca L. , Revering Paula J. , Siekmann Ina , Langrock Roland , Nimmo‐Smith W. Alex M.
Published: November 2022

Marine predator foraging opportunities are often driven by dynamic physical processes enhancing prey accessibility. Surface slicks are ubiquitous yet ephemeral ocean features where convergent flows accumulate flotsam, concentrating marine organisms and pollutants. Slicks can manifest on the sea surface as meandering lines and seabirds often associate with slicks. Yet, how slicks may influence the fine‐scale foraging behavior of seabirds is only coarsely resolved. Here we show that seabirds selectively forage in small‐scale slicks. We used aerial drone technology to track surface‐foraging terns (Sternidae, 107 tracks) over evolving slicks advected by the mean flow and reshaped by localized turbulence at scales of meters and seconds. Terns were more likely to switch into high‐tortuosity foraging behavior when over slicks, with plunge‐dive events occurring significantly more often within slicks. As we demonstrate that terns select dynamic slicks for foraging, our approach will also lend itself to interaction studies with pollutants, plumes, and fronts.
MXene Reinforced PAA/PEDOT:PSS/MXene Conductive Hydrogel for Highly Sensitive Strain Sensors
Authors: Liang Jionghong , He Jie , Xin Yue , Gao Wenshuo , Zeng Guang , He Xin
Published: November 2022

Conductive hydrogel has a vital application prospect in flexible electronic fields such as electronic skin and force sensors. Developing conductive hydrogel with significant toughness and high sensitivity is urgently needed for application research. In this work, a strong and sensitive strain sensor based on conductive hydrogel is demonstrated by introducing MXene (Ti3C2Tx) into the micelle crosslinked polyacrylic acid (PAA)/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene‐sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) hydrogel network. The functional polymer micelle crosslinkers can dissipate external stress by deformation, endowing the hydrogel with high strength. The combination of MXene both improves the polymer network structure and the conductive pathways, further enhancing the mechanical properties and sensing performance. Resultantly, the flexible strain sensor base on PAA/PEDOT:PSS/MXene conductive hydrogel exhibits excellent sensing performance with a high gauge factor of 20.86, a large strain detection range of 1000%, as well as good adhesion on different interfaces. Thus, it can be used to monitor various movements of the human body and identify all kinds of handwriting, showing great potential into wearable electronics.
Azo‐Functionalized Thermoplastic Polyurethane for Light‐Driven Shape Memory Materials
Authors: Pan Baohai , Park Soon Mo , Ying Wu Bin , Yoon Dong Ki , Lee Kyung Jin
Published: November 2022

Shape memory polymers have great potential in the fields of soft robotics, injectable medical devices, and as essential materials for advanced electronic devices. Herein, light‐triggered shape‐memory thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is reported using azido TPU grafted by the photoswitchable azo compound. The trans–cis transitions of the azobenzene on the side chain of the TPU induce the recoiling of the main chain, leading to shaping memory behavior. Under UV irradiation, cis–azo allows the oriented main chain to recoil to release residual stress and realize light‐triggered shape memory behavior. The facile method proposed here for the preparation of azo‐functionalized TPU can provide viable opportunities for soft robotics and smart TPU applications.
Atomistic Modeling of Mechanical Properties and Creep Behavior of Graphene Oxide Reinforced Natural Rubber Composites
Authors: Srivastava Aviral , Sharma Sumit , Patel Pramod Rakt
Published: November 2022

In the realm of polymer composites, the research of nanoparticles has risen in prominence. Graphene oxide (GO) is one of the best nanofillers in natural rubber (NR). In this work, GO nanosheets are utilized as reinforcement in an NR composite to anticipate mechanical characteristics. The researchers project the effect of GO sheets in NR with varied volume percentages and defective GO sheet reinforcement in NR composites. When the volume percentage of GO sheet in the NR nanocomposite is 4.6% and 7.2%, respectively, the value of Young's modulus rose by 68.8% and 166.2%. GO/NR with a 7.2% volume fraction has the highest ultimate tensile strength as compared with lower volume fractions of GO/NR nanocomposites. An increase of 63.49% in ultimate tensile strength in GO/NR nanocomposites (7.2% vol fraction) is seen as compared with pristine NR. Creep characteristics of NR nanocomposites are also investigated. The results reveal that the addition of GO sheets considerably increases the creep resistance strength of NR nanocomposites. The zone of secondary creep grows narrower as the continuous stress level increases.
A regret theory of investment timing under asymmetric information
Authors: Wong Kit Pong
Published: November 2022

This paper examines the optimal investment timing in a principal–agent model under asymmetric information. An owner has to delegate the investment decision of a project to a manager who privately knows the true quality of the project. Introducing regret aversion to the owner affects the equilibrium trade‐off between investment efficiency and information rent as compared to the standard model. When the project is more likely to be of high (low) quality, social loss is smaller (larger), the informed manager is made better (worse) off, and the uninformed owner is always made worse off when regret aversion prevails.
Melanin and Neuromelanin: Linking Skin Pigmentation and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Krainc Talia , Monje Mariana H.G. , Kinsinger Morgan , Bustos Bernabe I. , Lubbe Steven J.
Published: November 2022

Neuromelanin‐containing dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) are the most vulnerable neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD). Recent work suggests that the accumulation of oxidized dopamine and neuromelanin mediate the convergence of mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction in patient‐derived neurons. In addition, the expression of human tyrosinase in mouse SNpc led to the formation of neuromelanin resulting in the degeneration of nigral dopaminergic neurons, further highlighting the importance of neuromelanin in PD. The potential role of neuromelanin in PD pathogenesis has been supported by epidemiological observations, whereby individuals with lighter pigmentation or cutaneous malignant melanoma exhibit higher incidence of PD. Because neuromelanin and melanin share many functional characteristics and overlapping biosynthetic pathways, it has been postulated that genes involved in skin pigmentation and melanin formation may play a role in the susceptibility of vulnerable midbrain dopaminergic neurons to neurodegeneration. Here, we highlight potential mechanisms that may explain the link between skin pigmentation and PD, focusing on the role of skin pigmentation genes in the pathogenesis of PD. We also discuss the importance of genetic ancestry in assessing the contribution of pigmentation‐related genes to risk of PD. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Intake of Pro‐ and/or Prebiotics as a Promising Approach for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Huijuan , Chen Ke , Ning Mengge , Wang Xin , Wang Zhouli , Yue Yuan , Yuan Yahong , Yue Tianli
Published: November 2022

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer, posing a serious threat to human life. It is widely believed that dietary factors may be crucial modifiers of CRC risk, with pro‐and/or prebiotics being especially promising. In this review, a synthesis of CRC prevention and treatment of strategies relying on usage of pro‐ and/or prebiotics supplements is given, as well as discuss mechanisms underlying the contribution of pro‐and/or prebiotics to the suppression of colonic carcinogenesis. Furthermore, a framework for personalizing such supplements according to the composition of an individual's gut microbiome is suggested. Various factors including diversity of one's intestinal microflora, integrity of their intestinal barrier, and the presence of mutagenic/carcinogenic/genotoxic and beneficial compounds are known to have a prominent influence on the development of CRC; thus, clarifying the role of pro‐ and/or prebiotics will yield valuable insight toward optimizing interventions for enhanced patient outcomes in the future.
J‐modulated 19F‐ and 1H‐detected dual‐optimized inverted 1JCC 1,n‐ADEQUATE: A universal ADEQUATE experiment
Authors: Crouch Ronald C. , Pelmuş Marius , Raab Jeffrey G. , Tischenko Evgeny , Frey Michael , Wang Yunyi , Reibarkh Mikhail , Williamson R. Thomas , Martin Gary E.
Published: November 2022

The recently reported 19F‐detected dual‐optimized inverted 1JCC 1,n‐ADEQUATE experiment and the previously reported 1H‐detected version have been modified to incorporate J‐modulation, making it feasible to acquire all 1,1‐ and 1,n‐ADEQUATE correlations as well as 1JCC and nJCC homonuclear scalar couplings in a single experiment. The experiments are demonstrated using N,N‐dimethylamino‐2,5,6‐trifluoro‐3,4‐phthalonitrile and N,N‐dimethylamino‐3,4‐phthalonitrile.
Piloting a new model of personalised care for people with fibromyalgia in primary care with secondary care multidisciplinary support
Authors: Stellman Selena , Ellis Benjamin , Dawson Helen , Kocsis Agnes , Mundra Jag , Hill Cameron , Sahota Kalwant , Douglas Sarah
Published: November 2022

Objective

An estimated 5.5 million people in England have high‐impact chronic pain, which is severe pain associated with significant disability. Current models of healthcare often fail to address their broad range of symptoms and address their complex non‐medical needs.

Methods

A pilot project was designed with the aim of improving the quality of care and addressing unmet needs of patients high‐impact musculoskeletal (MSK) pain through providing a personalised approach to their pain and wider psychosocial needs. The model comprised a longer initial appointment with a general practitioner, a later follow‐appointment, and support of the multidisciplinary team (MDT) (informally and through a formal MDT meeting) with both primary care clinicians and specialists based in secondary care.

Results

Forty six patients were seen using this model, with prominent themes of consultations including self‐management, social needs, mental health and understanding their diagnosis. Evaluation of the pilot demonstrated improvements in MSK and non‐MSK symptoms, together with improved patient confidence in self‐management and knowledge and understanding of their condition. Multidisciplinary working proved to be invaluable in addressing patients' wider needs but also upskilling and supporting primary care clinicians. Primary care staff also found it to be a satisfying way to care for patients, and developed increasing skills and confidence in supporting patients with chronic pain.

Conclusion

This model of care appears to be an effective way to help primary care teams to provide more holistic personalised care to a group of patients who are highly complex and so often forgotten.
A transition scheme from diffusive to discrete crack topologies at finite strain during the course of a staggered iterative procedure
Authors: Han Jike , Shintaku Yuichi , Moriguchi Shuji , Terada Kenjiro
Published: November 2022

This study presents a novel transition scheme that can trace an actual crack path as closely as possible and stably update its explicit crack tip even in a large deformation regime. The crack initiation and propagation processes are determined from an energy minimization problem with respect to the displacement field and crack phase‐field, and the predicted path represented by a diffuse crack topology is replaced by a discrete path by applying the finite cover method. By developing a technique for determining explicit crack tips, the crack topology is updated from diffusive to discrete intermittently during the course of the staggered iterative procedure. Therefore, even a curved crack path that evolves significantly within a single time increment can be explicitly captured. Additionally, to stably update an explicit crack tip within the finite strain framework, we introduce a stabilization technique. Specifically, pseudo‐stiffness is applied to severely damaged elements around the discrete crack path to prevent excessively large deformations, and the corrector of the displacement increment in the global Newton–Raphson iterative procedure is intentionally diminished so that the discrete crack opens in a gradual and stable manner. After describing the individual techniques devised in the proposed scheme for achieving these features based on their algorithmic aspects, we present several representative numerical examples to demonstrate the performance and capability of the developed approach.
A meta‐analysis comparing the effectiveness of alternate day fasting, the 5:2 diet, and time‐restricted eating for weight loss
Authors: Elortegui Pascual Paloma , Rolands Maryann R. , Eldridge Alison L. , Kassis Amira , Mainardi Fabio , Lê Kim‐Anne , Karagounis Leonidas G. , Gut Philipp , Varady Krista A.
Published: November 2022

Objective

The objective of this meta‐analysis was to compare the effectiveness of different intermittent fasting (IF) regimens on weight loss, in the general population, and compare these to traditional caloric energy restriction (CER).

Methods

Three databases were searched from 2011 to June 2021 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed weight loss and IF, including alternate day fasting (ADF), the 5:2 diet, and time‐restricted eating (TRE). A random effect network analysis was used to compare the effectiveness between the three regimens. Meta‐regression analysis was presented as weighted mean differences of body weight loss.

Results

The exploratory random effects network analysis of 24 RCTs (n = 1768) ranked ADF as the most effective, followed by CER and TRE. The meta‐analysis showed that IF regimens resulted in similar weight loss to CER (mean difference 0.26 kg, 95% CI: –0.31 to 0.84; p = 0.37). Compliance was generally high (>80%) in trials shorter than 3 months.

Conclusions

The present meta‐analysis concludes that IF is comparable to CER and a promising alternative for weight loss. Among the three regimens, ADF showed the highest effectiveness for weight loss, followed by CER and TRE. Further well‐powered RCTs with longer durations of intervention are required to draw solid conclusions.
Improvement of compatibility, mechanical, thermal and dielectric properties of poly(lactic acid) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) blends and their composites with porous clay heterostructures from mixed surfactant systems
Authors: Chotiradsirikun Suchinda , Than‐ardna Bhumin , Guo RuYan , Bhalla Amar S. , Manuspiya Hathaikarn
Published: November 2022

In this study, nanocomposite poly(lactic acid) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) blends were prepared through polymer blending in the presence of multi‐functional epoxy as a compatibilizer that could react with epoxy group and terminated end group of two phases to increase interfacial adhesion between PLA and PBAT and improve the toughness of PLA. The effects of porous clay heterostructure from mixed CTAB:CTAC surfactant in the mole ratio of 1:2 (B1C2‐PCH) were also investigated. The elongation at break of the blends reached 38%, which was eight times that of neat PLA. The cryo‐fractured surface demonstrated the interfacial adhesion caused by the interaction of the epoxy group of the reactive compatibilizer with the terminal carboxyl and hydroxyl groups of PLA and PBAT. Moreover, PBAT reduced the crystallization rate and percent crystallinity of the PLA matrix and further decreased when compatibilizer was used. Alternatively, B1C2‐PCH accelerated the heterogeneous nucleation and crystallization of the nanocomposite films. After adding small amount of B1C2‐PCH, the nanocomposite films demonstrated excellent dielectric properties. Therefore, the improvement of PLA/PBAT nanocomposite blends are capable to be further developed as polymeric capacitor films.
Direct measurement and verification of cohesive zone model parameters for basalt/PProds using the transverse tensile test and virtual double cantilever beam test
Authors: Tobata Yuta , Naito Kimiyoshi , Tanks Jonathon
Published: November 2022

To further our understanding of failure in thermoplastic‐based composite rods, the mode I‐governed cohesive zone model parameter of a basalt fiber reinforced polypropylene composite rod is evaluated. The relations between stress and strain, the maximum normal traction and final separation displacement are examined using a transverse tensile test method. The measured traction is verified by three‐dimensional finite element analysis of rod‐shaped double cantilever beam specimens. The numerical results show the close relation between the crack length and cube root of compliance, and yields a representative value of the mode I‐governed critical fracture energy.
High‐performance nano‐biocomposite ionic soft actuators based on microfibrillated cellulose/ionic liquid electrolyte membrane
Authors: Wang Fan , Wang Lei , Shen Fangfang , Wang Donghai , Shen Wenhao
Published: November 2022

High‐performance electro‐responsive ionic soft actuators with low actuation voltage, large bending strain, and ecofriendly functionalities have received great interest in soft robots, biomimetic robots, biomedical devise, flexible electronics, and wearable devices. Herein, we report a novel ionic soft actuator using biofriendly microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) and PEDOT:PSS, which exhibited a large peak‐to‐peak displacement (11.21 mm) mm under a sinusoidal excitation of 1.5 V at 0.1 Hz, low actuation voltage, wide driving frequency, excellent actuation durability (98% retention for 2 h), and excellent controllability, due to the strong ionic interactions of MFC fibers with cations and anions of ionic liquid (IL). Furthermore, the helical MFC‐IL ionic actuator was successfully designed, displaying that the radical displacements of the helical actuator could be controlled by changing the applied frequency and voltage. Therefore, the proposed ionic actuator as well as its helical design will offer an available pathway for guiding the development of artificial muscles, biomedical active devices, soft robots, flexible electronics, and soft electronics.
Designing of smart nanogels based on tragacanth gum for cisplatin delivery
Authors: Verma Chetna , Pathania Deepak , Negi Poonam , Gupta Piyush Kumar , Verma Rama Shanker , Gupta Bhuvanesh
Published: November 2022

The present work deals with the development of smart nanogels with a coating of a lipid layer, which synergized the triggered delivery of the anticancer drug cisplatin (CP). In the first step, the chemical initiation method was used for the grafting of poly(itaconic acid) on tragacanth gum (TG). Subsequently, this grafted TG matrix was used for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Nanoemulsion process was followed to prepare CP‐loaded grafted TG–lecithin (GTG‐LC) nanogels using dioctyl sulfosuccinate as the surfactant. These nanoparticles were characterized for size, morphology, elemental composition and crystallinity. Transmission electron microscopy images of the GTG‐LC nanogels with varying concentrations of CP demonstrate an irregular polygonal shape of the nanoparticles which is strongly influenced by the CP concentration. The smart nanogels exhibit a unique structure, nano‐within‐nano, a structure where nanosized CP is encapsulated within the GTG‐LC nanogel. Grafted nanogels have a high carboxyl functionality and exhibit pH‐sensitive behavior leading to pH‐responsive drug release behavior. These nanogels show required biocompatibility and offer interesting material for nanomedicines in chemotherapy. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Mass spectrometry‐based high‐throughput proteomics and its role in biomedical studies and systems biology
Authors: Messner Christoph B. , Demichev Vadim , Wang Ziyue , Hartl Johannes , Kustatscher Georg , Mülleder Michael , Ralser Markus
Published: November 2022

There are multiple reasons why the next generation of biological and medical studies require increasing numbers of samples. Biological systems are dynamic, and the effect of a perturbation depends on the genetic background and environment. As a consequence, many conditions need to be considered to reach generalizable conclusions. Moreover, human population and clinical studies only reach sufficient statistical power if conducted at scale and with precise measurement methods. Finally, many proteins remain without sufficient functional annotations, because they have not been systematically studied under a broad range of conditions. In this review, we discuss the latest technical developments in mass spectrometry (MS)‐based proteomics that facilitate large‐scale studies by fast and efficient chromatography, fast scanning mass spectrometers, data‐independent acquisition (DIA), and new software. We further highlight recent studies which demonstrate how high‐throughput (HT) proteomics can be applied to capture biological diversity, to annotate gene functions or to generate predictive and prognostic models for human diseases.
Portable mass spectrometry system: instrumentation, applications, and path to ‘omics analysis
Authors: Wang Jing , Pursell Madison E. , DeVor Amanda , Awoyemi Olanrewaju , Valentine Stephen J. , Li Peng
Published: November 2022

Mass spectrometry (MS) is an information rich analytical technique and plays a key role in various ‘omics studies. Standard mass spectrometers are bulky and operate at high vacuum, which hinder their adoption by the broader community and utility in field applications. Developing portable mass spectrometers can significantly expand the application scope and user groups of MS analysis. This review discusses the basics and recent advancements in the development of key components of portable mass spectrometers including ionization source, mass analyzer, detector, and vacuum system. Further, major areas where portable mass spectrometers are applied are also discussed. Finally, a perspective on the further development of portable mass spectrometers including the potential benefits for ‘omics analysis is provided.
Clearing up the smoke: Physical and mental health considerations regarding cannabis use in adolescents with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Ince H. Yavuz , Phan Hanna , Nasr Samya Z. , Pierce Jessica M. , Malas Nasuh
Published: November 2022

The cannabis plant is the most used federally illegal drug in the United States and is widely used by adolescents. Cannabis has complex effects on the body and mind. All health professionals who take care of adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF) should be aware of the factors impacting cannabis use in CF. Given limited evidence regarding the benefits of cannabis and the significant risks, clinicians have the responsibility to identify risk of cannabis use early, counsel patients about the risks, provide a safe space for ongoing conversations about cannabis use in the context of CF care, and deliver evidence‐based interventions.
Regional inequalities in life expectancy and lifespan variation by educational attainment in Spain, 2014–2018
Authors: Bramajo Octavio , Permanyer Iñaki , Blanes Amand
Published: November 2022

Two important sources of inequality in mortality are regional variation and individuals' socioeconomic status. While many studies have investigated the effect that each of these two factors might have had on mortality levels separately, they have rarely been studied simultaneously. Using linked data from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics, we study regional levels of life expectancy and lifespan inequality by sex and educational attainment in contemporary Spain (2014–2018). In all regions, life expectancy was higher (and lifespan variation lower) for individuals with higher educational attainment and among women. We find a negative relationship between life expectancy and lifespan inequality across subnational regions among all sex‐education groups. However, the relationship is much weaker among the highly educated. These findings suggest that spatial conditions still matter as health determinants, but even more among individuals with disadvantaged socioeconomic positions, not only in terms of lower life expectancy but also of higher lifespan variation.
Disease trajectory of SLE clinical endpoints and covariates affecting disease severity and probability of response: Analysis of pooled patient‐level placebo (Standard‐of‐Care) data to enable model‐informed drug development
Authors: Goteti Kosalaram , French Jonathan , Garcia Ramon , Li Ying , Casset‐Semanaz Florence , Aydemir Aida , Townsend Robert , Mateo Cristina Vazquez , Studham Matthew , Guenther Oliver , Kao Amy , Gastonguay Marc , Girard Pascal , Benincosa Lisa , Venkatakrishnan Karthik
Published: November 2022

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems. Many investigational agents have failed or shown only modest effects when added to standard of care (SoC) therapy in placebo‐controlled trials, and only two therapies have been approved for SLE in the last 60 years. Clinical trial outcomes have shown discordance in drug effects between clinical endpoints. Herein, we characterized longitudinal disease activity in the SLE population and the sources of variability by developing a latent disease trajectory model for SLE component endpoints (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index [SLEDAI], Physician's Global Assessment [PGA], British Isles Lupus Assessment Group Index [BILAG]) and composite endpoints (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Responder Index [SRI], BILAG‐based Composite Lupus Assessment [BICLA], and Lupus Low Disease Activity State [LLDAS]) using patient‐level historical SoC data from nine phase II and III studies. Across all endpoints, in predictions up to 52 weeks from the final disease trajectory model, the following baseline covariates were associated with a greater decrease in SLE disease activity and higher response to placebo + SoC: Hispanic ethnicity from Central/South America, absence of hypocomplementemia, recent SLE diagnosis, and high baseline disease activity score using SLEDAI and BILAG separately. No discernible differences were observed in the trajectory of response to placebo + SoC across different SoC medications (antimalarial and immunosuppressant such as mycophenolate, methotrexate, and azathioprine). Across all endpoints, disease trajectory showed no difference in Asian versus non‐Asian patients, supporting Asia‐inclusive global SLE drug development. These results describe the first population approach to support a model‐informed drug development framework in SLE.
Plantamajoside attenuates cardiac fibrosis via inhibiting AGEs activated‐RAGE/autophagy/EndMT pathway
Authors: Zhang Lu , Guo Yi‐Ning , Liu Jing , Wang Lin‐Hai , Wu Han‐Qin , Wang Ting , Deng Bo , Wang Jun‐Yan , Lu Lu , Chen Zi‐Xin , He Jia‐qi , Liang Bi‐Rong , Li Huan , Huang Yu‐Sheng , Yang Zhong‐Qi , Xian Shao‐Xiang , Wang Ling‐Jun , Ye Xiao‐Han
Published: November 2022

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) have been identified to transduce fibrogenic signals via inducing the activation of their receptor (RAGE)‐mediated pathway. Recently, disrupting AGE‐RAGE interaction has become a promising therapeutic strategy for chronic heart failure (CHF). Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is close to the cardiac fibrosis pathological process. Our previous studies have demonstrated that knockout RAGE suppressed the autophagy‐mediated EndMT, and thus alleviated cardiac fibrosis. Plantamajoside (PMS) is the major bioactive compound of Plantago Asiatica, and its activity of anti‐fibrosis has been documented in many reports. However, its effect on CHF and the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Thus, we tried to elucidate the protective role of PMS in CHF from the viewpoint of the AGEs/RAGE/autophagy/EndMT axis. Herein, PMS was found to attenuate cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction, suppress EndMT, reduce autophagy levels and serum levels of AGEs, yet did not affect the expression of RAGE in CHF mice. Mechanically, PMS possibly binds to the V‐domain of RAGE, which is similar to the interaction between AGEs and RAGE. Importantly, this competitive binding disturbed AGEs‐induced the RAGE‐autophagy‐EndMT pathway in vitro. Collectively, our results indicated that PMS might exert an anti‐cardiac fibrosis effect by specifically binding RAGE to suppress the AGEs‐activated RAGE/autophagy/EndMT pathway.
The Swendsen–Wang dynamics on trees
Authors: Blanca Antonio , Chen Zongchen , Štefankovič Daniel , Vigoda Eric
Published: November 2022

The Swendsen–Wang algorithm is a sophisticated, widely‐used Markov chain for sampling from the Gibbs distribution for the ferromagnetic Ising and Potts models. This chain has proved difficult to analyze, due in part to its global nature. We present optimal bounds on the convergence rate of the Swendsen–Wang algorithm for the complete ‐ary tree. Our bounds extend to the non‐uniqueness region and apply to all boundary conditions. We show that the spatial mixing conditions known asvariance mixingandentropy mixingimply spectral gap and mixing time, respectively, for the Swendsen–Wang dynamics on the ‐ary tree. We also show that these bounds are asymptotically optimal. As a consequence, we establish mixing for the Swendsen–Wang dynamics forallboundary conditions throughout (and beyond) the tree uniqueness region. Our proofs feature a novel spectral view of the variance mixing condition and utilize recent work on block factorization of entropy.
WSR 2.0 (2): Wuli–shili–renli notions
Authors: Zhu Zhichang
Published: November 2022

This is the second of a series of papers that present a systems approach to management from China: wuli–shili–renli (WSR). The paper focuses on an updated reconstruction of the WSR notions. In WSR 2.0, wuli is defined as characteristics and regularities of objective existence, shili as means and methods for knowing and doing and renli as principles and norms that guide collective actions toward higher purpose. Issues emerging from recent theorising and applying WSR notions are discussed.
On a new higher order kernel for density estimation
Authors: Das Soumya , Dutta Subhajit , Srivastava Radhendushka
Published: November 2022

Higher order kernels have been widely implemented for nonparametric function estimation, mainly due to their faster asymptotic rates of convergence and interpretability. This article constructs a novel higher order kernel of any pre‐specified even order by using Shannon's formula. The proposed kernels have a closed form expression and are easy to implement. We compare the constructed kernel with several popular higher order kernels in the context of density estimation. Further, we observe that the mean integrated squared error (MISE) of the density estimator corresponding to the proposed kernel is comparable with that of the popular kernels. The constructed kernel performs somewhat better for the Fejér‐de la Vallée Poussin and the
‐symmetric densities. The MISE of the corresponding kernel density estimator and a few related theoretical results are also presented.
Size effect of circular concrete‐filled stainless steel tubular short columns under axial compression
Authors: Liu Xiaolong , Wang Senping , Yuan Bo
Published: November 2022

Concrete‐filled stainless steel tube (CFSST) members combine the advantages of stainless steel materials and concrete‐filled steel tube (CFST) members. Therefore, it has a broad range of applications than CFST members in the marine environment and other scenarios requiring great durability and corrosion resistance. However, there are limited researches on the large‐sized CFSST members. In this paper, 30 circular CFSST members with varying steel ratios (3.7% ≤ α ≤ 10.3%), diameters (500 mm ≤ D ≤ 900 mm), and strength of concrete (
= 40 MPa, 50 MPa) are studied on the size effect under axial compression. For peak axial stress, peak axial strain, and composite elastic modulus, size effects are investigated. According to the results, the peak axial stress and peak axial strain of the members increase with the increase in diameter. The modulus of composite elasticity essentially stays constant as the diameter increases, showing that there is no obvious size effect on the composite elastic modulus. The size effect of peak axial stress and peak axial strain is influenced by the steel ratio. Increasing the steel ratio tended to decrease the size effect. According to the generated data, it was found that the current codes of Chinese and European underestimate the ultimate bearing capacity of CFSST short columns significantly. To this end, the resistances of the large‐sized austenitic CFSST columns with a low steel ratio are well predicted by the proposed design model after being modified, based on GB 50936‐2014 and EN 1994‐1‐1 design codes.
Characterization of the Binary Nitrides VN and ScN by Solid‐State NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Steinadler Jennifer , Eisenburger Lucien , Bräuniger Thomas
Published: November 2022

NMR spectra of polycrystalline samples of the binary nitrides ScN and VN were acquired under magic‐angle spinning. The observed nuclides 45Sc, 51V and 14N are all quadrupolar nuclei with a spin
. However, due to the high symmetry of their rock‐salt type structures, the spectra of the nitrides do not exhibit effects of quadrupolar or other anisotropic interactions of significant magnitude. This allows a relatively straightforward evaluation of the acquired spectra, leading to isotropic chemical shift values (δiso) of −213 ppm (51VN), 378 ppm (V14N), 290 ppm (45ScN) and 442 ppm (Sc14N) against commonly used reference standards. In the wider context of 14N‐NMR of binary nitrides, it is shown that the distance of nitrogen to the nearest neighbour cation can be correlated to the observed chemical shift.
Correction to: Traditional Medicinal Knowledge of Vendors and Their Contribution Toward Community Healthcare in Baguio City, Philippines
Authors: Barcelo Racquel C. , Gallao II Mark Gamaliel S. , Balocnit Reina G. , Caballero Kate L. , Fernandez Alfonso Rafael C. , Magwa Karl Andrei B. , Valmoja Justin Dave P. , Garambas Zenaida U. , Barcelo Jonathan M.
Published: November 2022

In the original version of the book, the author provided a revised map that has been updated in Figure 6.1.

The book and the chapter have been updated with the change.
The effective theory of gravity and dynamical vacuum energy
Authors: Mottola Emil
Published: November 2022

Abstract

Gravity and general relativity are considered as an Effective Field Theory (EFT) at low energies and macroscopic distances. The effective action of the conformal anomaly of light or massless quantum fields has significant effects on macroscopic scales, due to associated light cone singularities that are not captured by an expansion in local curvature invariants. A compact local form for the Wess-Zumino effective action of the conformal anomaly and stress tensor is given, requiring the introduction of a new light scalar field, which it is argued should be included in the low energy effective action for gravity. This scalar conformalon couples to the conformal part of the spacetime metric and allows the effective value of the vacuum energy, described as a condensate of an exact 4-form abelian gauge field strength F = dA, to change in space and time. This is achieved by the identification of the torsion dependent part of the Chern-Simons 3-form of the Euler class with the gauge potential A, which enters the effective action of the conformal anomaly as a J · A interaction analogous to electromagnetism. The conserved 3-current J describes the worldtube of 2-surfaces that separate regions of differing vacuum energy. The resulting EFT thus replaces the fixed constant Λ of classical gravity, and its apparently unnaturally large sensitivity to UV physics, with a dynamical condensate whose ground state value in empty flat space is Λeff = 0 identically. By allowing Λeff to vary rapidly near the 2-surface of a black hole horizon, the proposed EFT of dynamical vacuum energy provides an effective Lagrangian framework for gravitational condensate stars, as the final state of complete gravitational collapse consistent with quantum theory. The possible consequences of dynamical vacuum dark energy for cosmology, the cosmic coincidence problem, and the role of conformal invariance for other fine tuning issues in the Standard Model are discussed.
Analysis of a dimension splitting scheme for Maxwell equations with low regularity in heterogeneous media
Authors: Zerulla Konstantin
Published: November 2022

We analyze a dimension splitting scheme for the time integration of linear Maxwell equations in a heterogeneous cuboid. The domain contains several homogeneous subcuboids and serves as a model for a rectangular embedded waveguide. Due to discontinuities of the material parameters and irregular initial data, the solution of the Maxwell system has regularity below $$H^1$$

H
1

. The splitting scheme is adapted to the arising singularities and is shown to converge with order one in $$L^2$$

L
2

. The error result only imposes assumptions on the model parameters and the initial data, but not on the unknown solution. To achieve this result, the regularity of the Maxwell system is analyzed in detail, giving rise to sharp explicit regularity statements. In particular, the regularity parameters are given in explicit terms of the largest jump of the material parameters. The analysis is based on semigroup theory, interpolation theory, and regularity analysis for elliptic transmission problems.
Long-term physical and psychological outcome following traumatic hemipelvectomy
Authors: Patrick Galland , Christian Krettek , Jennifer Ernst , Stephan Sehmisch , Sebastian Decker
Published: November 2022

Purpose

First time examination of the physical and psychological long-term outcome following traumatic hemipelvectomy.

Methodology

In this study, all patients suffering from traumatic hemipelvectomy that were treated in a level-A trauma center since 1988 were retrospectively evaluated. The authors aimed to compare the physical and psychological outcome following primary amputation (A) vs. limb-preservation (LP) procedures. The patients were examined with a focus on pain, function, mobility and general health. As part of this examination, various scores were recorded, i.e., Majeed Score, Time up & Go or SF-36.

Results

The following work showed 13 patients who had suffered a traumatic hemipelvectomy, 8 of whom survived. Five of these were available for subsequent clinical re-examination; of these, three patients underwent an amputation, while limb preservation was performed on two patients. Mean follow-up of the amputee group was after 12 years compared to 6.5 years following limb preservation. After limb preservation, both patients reported phantom limb pain at the affected leg, despite pain medication. The general state of health was assessed as 82/100 (A) and 45/100 (LP). The Majeed score was 61 (A) vs. 45 (LP). In the clinical examination, three out of five patients (2 LP, 1 A) showed peroneal palsy (PP). In the quality-of-life analysis based on the SF12/36 and the NHP, amputees scored higher than the patients who underwent limb preservation surgery.

Conclusion

In our small patient cohort, satisfaction, pain and mobility tend to be better following primary amputation compared to limb preserving surgery.
COVID-19-Impfintention von Eltern bezogen auf ihre Kinder
Authors: Brandstetter Susanne , Pawellek Maja , Böhmer Merle M. , Köninger Angela , Melter Michael , Kabesch Michael , Apfelbacher Christian ,   KUNO-Kids Study Group
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Mit Beginn der Impfkampagne hat eine neue Phase der Bewältigung der Coronapandemie begonnen. Zulassung und Empfehlung für die COVID-19-Impfung von Kindern folgten schrittweise; bis heute (mit Stand vom 04.10.2022) sind in Deutschland Impfungen für Kinder unter 5 Jahren nicht zugelassen.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel war es, zu untersuchen, wie sich die COVID-19-Impfintention von Eltern bezogen auf ihre Kinder von Mai 2020 bis Februar 2021 (von der ersten zur zweiten Coronawelle) entwickelte und welche Determinanten der Impfintention es gibt.

Methoden

612 Familien, die mit ihrem Kind im Alter zwischen 1,5 und 6 Jahren an der KUNO Kids Gesundheitsstudie teilnehmen, beantworteten im Mai 2020 Fragen eines Online-Surveys (Teilnahmerate 51 %), 507 nahmen an der Wiederholungsbefragung im Februar 2021 teil. Determinanten der Impfintention wurden für beide Zeitpunkte in uni- und multivariablen logistischen Regressionsmodellen analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Während 51 % der Eltern im Mai 2020 angaben, ihr Kind gegen COVID-19 impfen lassen zu wollen, reduzierte sich dieser Anteil bis Februar 2021 auf 41 %. Zu mindestens einem der beiden Zeitpunkte waren Gesundheitskompetenz sowie die wahrgenommene Kompetenz bzgl. Schutzmaßnahmen gegen das Virus signifikant positiv mit einer höheren Impfintention assoziiert, die Zugehörigkeit von Angehörigen zu einer Risikogruppe sowie der Eindruck, dass die politischen Maßnahmen übertrieben seien, ging mit einer niedrigeren Impfintention einher.

Diskussion

Die Intention, das Kind gegen COVID-19 impfen zu lassen, war nur mäßig ausgeprägt und nahm zur zweiten Coronawelle weiter ab. Einstellungs- und kompetenzbezogene Determinanten waren zu beiden Zeitpunkten wichtig und könnten in einer künftigen Impfkampagne, die Eltern jüngerer Kinder adressiert, gezielt berücksichtigt werden.
Sakrale Fragilitätsfrakturen: Risikofaktoren und Ergebnisse nach Zementsakroplastie
Authors: Andresen Julian Ramin , Radmer Sebastian , Prokop Axel , Schröder Guido , Schober Hans-Christof , Andresen Reimer
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Ziel der Untersuchung bei PatientInnen mit Fragilitätsfrakturen des Os sacrum (FFS) war die Erfassung von vorhandenen Risikofaktoren sowie der klinischen Ergebnisse nach Zementsakroplastie (ZSP).

PatientInnen und Methoden

Retrospektiv wurden 68 PatientInnen (64 Frauen, 4 Männer) mit stattgehabten FFS nachuntersucht. Anhand von CT- und MRT-Schnittbildern erfolgte eine Fraktureinteilung nach Denis et al. sowie Rommens und Hofmann. Bei allen PatientInnen wurde eine Knochenmineralgehaltsbestimmung mittels QCT durchgeführt. Unter Berücksichtigung von Anamnese und Röntgenaufnahmen wurden Begleiterkrankungen sowie zentrale und periphere Frakturen miterfasst. Vitamin-D-Werte wurden zusätzlich bestimmt. Nach einem frustranen konservativen Therapieversuch erfolgte eine ZSP. Anhand der Schmerzentwicklung, der körperlichen Selbstständigkeit, der PatientInnen-Zufriedenheit, der Komplikationsrate und der Mortalität wurden die Ergebnisse dokumentiert.

Ergebnisse

Das Alter der Frauen betrugt Ø 83,2 (72–99), dass der Männer Ø 77,8 (76–85) Jahre. Zu 42,4 % fand sich eine Denis-Typ-1-, zu 4,2 % eine Denis-Typ-2-, zu 0 % eine Denis-Typ-3-, zu 43,3 % eine Denis-Typ-1–2- und zu 10,1 % eine Denis-Typ-1–2–3-Frakturzone. Es fand sich ein FFP-Typ-II a-bis -II c-Frakturgeschehen zu 88,2 %, ein FFP-Typ III c zu 7,4 % sowie ein FFP-Typ IV b zu 4,4 %. Bei 68,8 % fanden sich bilaterale FFS. Der Knochenmineralgehalt (KMG) betrug im Ø 35,4 (2–74) mg/ml, der Vitamin-D-Wert im Ø 8,8 (0–28) nmol/l. Weitere osteoporoseassoziierte Frakturen fanden sich in circa 50 %. Nach der ZSP zeigten die PatientInnen eine schnelle und signifikante (p < 0,001) Schmerzreduktion sowie nachhaltige klinische Verbesserung.

Schlussfolgerung

Als Frakturrisikofaktoren von FFS fanden sich das weibliche Geschlecht, das hohe Alter, eine vorhandene Osteoporose und ein schwerer Vitamin-D-Mangel. PatientInnen mit nichtdislozierten FFS, welche schmerzbedingt nicht zu mobilisieren waren, profitierten von einer ZSP nachhaltig.
Dopamine increases risky choice while D2 blockade shortens decision time
Authors: Hirschbichler Stephanie T. , Rothwell John C. , Manohar Sanjay G.
Published: November 2022

Dopamine is crucially involved in decision-making and overstimulation within dopaminergic pathways can lead to impulsive behaviour, including a desire to take risks and reduced deliberation before acting. These behavioural changes are side effects of treatment with dopaminergic drugs in Parkinson disease, but their likelihood of occurrence is difficult to predict and may be influenced by the individual’s baseline endogenous dopamine state, and indeed correlate with sensation-seeking personality traits. We here collected data on a standard gambling task in healthy volunteers given either placebo, 2.5 mg of the dopamine antagonist haloperidol or 100/25 mg of the dopamine precursor levodopa in a within-subject design. We found an increase in risky choices on levodopa. Choices were, however, made faster on haloperidol with no effect of levodopa on deliberation time. Shortened deliberation times on haloperidol occurred in low sensation-seekers only, suggesting a correlation between sensation-seeking personality trait and baseline dopamine levels. We hypothesise that levodopa increases risk-taking behaviour via overstimulation at both D1 and D2 receptor level, while a single low dose of haloperidol, as previously reported (Frank and O’Reilly 2006), may block D2 receptors pre- and post-synaptically and may paradoxically lead to higher striatal dopamine acting on remaining striatal D1 receptors, causing speedier decision without influencing risk tolerance. These effects could also fit with a recently proposed computational model of the basal ganglia (Moeller and Bogacz 2019; Moeller et al. 2021). Furthermore, our data suggest that the actual dopaminergic drug effect may be dependent on the individual’s baseline dopamine state, which may influence our therapeutic decision as clinicians in the future.
Sources of vitamin D and determinants of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D in Finnish adolescents
Authors: Soininen Sonja , Eloranta Aino-Maija , Schwab Ursula , Lakka Timo A.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To study the intake and sources of vitamin D and determinants of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (S-25(OH)D) in Finnish adolescents.

Methods

We studied 265 adolescents (117 girls) aged 15–17 years attending 8-year examinations of the PANIC Study, assessed diet using food records and other lifestyle factors by questionnaires, and analyzed S-25(OH)D by chemiluminescence immunoassay and determinants of S-25(OH)D using multivariate linear regression.

Results

Mean (standard deviation) of total vitamin D intake from food and supplements was 19.2 (13.1) µg/d, and that of dietary vitamin D intake was 9.9 (5.4) µg/d. Milk fortified with vitamin D was the main dietary source of vitamin D, providing 45% of daily intake. Altogether, 29% of the adolescents used no vitamin D supplements and 25% did not meet the recommended total vitamin D intake of 10 µg/d. Mean (standard deviation) of S-25(OH)D was 62.0 (18.8) nmol/l, and S-25(OH)D was < 50 nmol/l in 29.5% of the adolescents. Vitamin D intake from supplements was the main determinant of S-25(OH)D (β = 0.465, p < 0.001), followed by consumption of milk products (β = 0.251, p < 0.001), consumption of meat products (β = 0.179, p = 0.002), travels to sunny countries (β = 0.178, p = 0.002), and average daylight time (β = 0.162, p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Most of the adolescents had vitamin D intake at the recommended level, although a fourth did not meet the recommended total vitamin D intake of 10 µg/d and almost a third had S-25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l. More attention should be paid to the sufficient intake of vitamin D in adolescents who do not use vitamin D supplements or fortified milk products.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01803776, registered March 3, 2013.