bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary care physicians' perceptions concerning engagement in cancer survivor care
Authors: Kimachi Miho , Omae Kenji , Kamitani Tsukasa , Fukuma Shingo
Published: December 2021

Background

Given the growing diversity among cancer survivors and the fact that oncologists typically do not perform long‐term care, the expected role of primary care physicians (PCPs) in survivor care is expanding. However, communication and collaboration between oncologists and PCPs are lacking. Therefore, we assessed the perception of cancer survivor care among PCPs.

Methods

We sent a questionnaire to 767 Japanese Board–certified PCPs, regardless of facility type (clinics and hospitals), inquiring about PCPs' perceptions of their role in survivor care. Additionally, we included vignette‐based scenarios focused on colorectal and prostate cancer survivors to explore factors associated with their clinical decisions.

Results

We obtained 91 replies (response rate: 11.9%). A total of 75% of PCPs had encountered at least 1 cancer patient in actual practice. Even for patients actively receiving cancer treatment, >70% of PCPs reported that they were willing to engage in comprehensive survivor care, except for the administration of anticancer drugs. Further, 49% of PCPs considered that both PCPs and oncologists were suited to performing regular screening for cancer recurrence in high‐risk patients. Multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed that clinic PCPs were less inclined to conduct screening for recurrence than hospital PCPs in both colorectal (odds ratio, 3.85 [95% confidence interval 1.40–10.6]) and prostate (4.36 [95% confidence interval 1.51–12.6]) cancer scenarios.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that Japanese PCPs are willing to engage in survivor care and encourage closer collaboration between oncologists and PCPs. However, oncologists might need to request cooperation, considering the facility type with which PCPs are affiliated.
The role of administrative data in gender statistics: Supporting inclusive development for women and girls
Authors: Richards Nicola , Pandolfelli Lauren , Bouziani Bouchra , Ofosu‐Baadu Bernice , Carter Karen
Published: December 2021

Gender data are essential for assessing gender‐equitable outcomes for children. However, significant data gaps continue to compromise country ability to implement gender‐responsive policies and monitor gender equality. This study explores the potential role of administrative systems in filling critical gender data gaps. It notes the substantial challenges to sourcing gender data from administrative systems—challenges related to limitations of administrative data itself, and challenges specific to the production and use of gender statistics. Overall, while data from administrative systems alone cannot address all gender data gaps, they are critical to a holistic approach to addressing national gender data needs.
Bioclimatic zoning for dairy cows in Brazil by statistical modeling
Authors: Aparecido Lucas Eduardo de Oliveira , Lorençone João Antonio , Lorençone Pedro Antonio , Torsoni Guilherme Botega , de Moraes José Reinaldo da Silva Cabral , de Meneses Kamila Cunha
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Climate conditions affect animal welfare directly, influencing milk production. The Midwest region is the largest cattle‐producing region in Brazil. The objective of this study was to elaborate on bioclimatic zoning for dairy cattle in the Midwest region of Brazil. Air temperature (Ta, °C) and relative humidity (%, RH) data from a 30‐year historical series (1989–2019) collected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration/Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resources (NASA/POWER) platform were used. The Temperature and Humidity Index (THI) was determined for the hottest and coldest months. Milk production losses due to climate factors in the Midwest of Brazil for two daily production levels, 10 kg Milk (PL10) and 25 kg Milk (PL25), were estimated.

RESULTS

The Midwest presented three THI classifications throughout the year: ‘normal’, ‘alert’, and ‘critical alert’. The entire Midwest region was classified as ‘normal’ (THI < 70) between autumn and winter. The decrease in milk production (DMP) during the autumn and winter presented no loss for both production levels (PL10 and PL25).

CONCLUSION

On the other hand, a 1 to 2 kg reduction in milk production was observed for cows with a PL25 production level between spring and summer in the southern Midwest region, while cows with a PL10 production level showed no reduction in milk production. Only the cities of Sinop and Cuiabá did not present a ‘critical alert’ during spring/summer for the risk of heat stress. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Capillary zone electrophoresis of lipoarabinomannan by multi‐layered concentration
Authors: Pitkänen Eeva Marja , Sirén Heli Marja Marita
Published: December 2021

The present article describes a capillary zone electrophoresis method which relies on a multilayered water‐alkali solvent stacking with online ionization to enhance detection of mannose, arabinose, and their oligosaccharides, which are used as the migration profile standards but are also the distinctive structural components of lipoarabinomannan. Lipoarabinomannan is detected in patients having tuberculosis. The capillary electrophoresis method with ionization of the whole saccharides without degradation in alkaline solution inside the capillary is based on the structural deprotonation of the molecules under ultrahigh pH conditions. The validation of the capillary electrophoresis parameters revealed that the 15‐fold electrolyte–water‐injection plug allowed detection of one‐third lower concentrations than detected without online concentration. For the first time, the better detectability was seen especially for highly polymerized, but otherwise poorly ionized, arabinooctaose. The applicability of the method for detecting whole large biological saccharide complexes was confirmed by the glycolipid lipoarabinomannan. For the first time also, the migration of the indestructible lipoarabinomannan was detected together with oligosaccharides used representing the capping units, namely mannose, mannobiose, and mannotriose. The myo‐inositol‐phosphate‐lipid unit was seen to migrate separately from the arabinomannan, since it was hydrolyzed from one lipoarabinomannan product under alkaline conditions in capillary electrophoresis.
Preparation and performance analysis of monodisperse glycidyl methacrylate modified restricted access media‐imprinted materials
Authors: Liu Xiu , Pu Junli , Li Jianming , Gong Bolin
Published: December 2021

Using monodisperse poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) as the matrix, and pefloxacin template molecules, a novel restricted‐access medium molecularly imprinted polymers with Bovine serum albumin crosslinked on its surface was prepared through reversible addition–fragmentation chain‐transfer polymerization. Then, the obtained material was employed in dispersive solid‐phase extraction to analyze the fluoroquinolones in untreated egg samples by high‐performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet detection. Adsorption performance revealed a good binding amount (40.72 mg/g), fast binding kinetics (25 min), satisfactory selectivity, and good ability to eliminate matrix interference. The reusability experiments indicated the materials have good reusable performance after repetition. Under the optimized conditions, restricted access media‐molecularly imprinted polymers‐dispersive solid‐phase extraction was combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet to enrich fluoroquinolones in untreated eggs, good limit of detection (1.31–3.15 μg/L) and high recovery (89.5–96.8%) were obtained. The results showed that the prepared restricted‐access material is promising for the direct detection of antibiotics in complex samples.
Ambient Pressure‐Dried Zirconia Xerogels and Aerogels Using Various Catalysts
Authors: Bangi Uzma K. H. , Ali Tayyab , Park Hyung‐Ho
Published: December 2021

The experimental results on the ambient pressure dried zirconia xerogels and aerogels using various catalysts are reported here. The catalysts (acid and base) have the major impact on the hydrolysis and polycondensation of the precursor solution. Therefore, zirconia xerogels and aerogels are synthesized using various catalysts such as ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH), ammonium fluoride (NH4F), hydrochloric acid (HCl), acetic acid (CH3COOH), and citric acid (C6H8O7) via ambient pressure drying. The influence of these catalysts on the physical and structural characteristics of zirconia is studied by measuring the bulk density, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermo gravimetric‐differential scanning calorimetric (TG‐DSC), as well as X‐ray diffraction analyses. During the synthesis, the molar ratio of ZrPro:PrOH:Acac.:H2O:HMDZ is kept fixed to 1:27:0.39:3.6:3.3, respectively. Among all zirconia samples, xerogels catalyzed using ammonium fluoride and acetic acid are observed to be low dense (～0.67 g cc−1). Moreover, the corresponding zirconia aerogels possess lower density (0.26 g cc−1) than xerogels. FTIR spectra reveal the high peak intensity of C‐H, Si‐C, and Zr‐O‐Si chemical bonds in zirconia xerogels and aerogels manifesting their hydrophobic characteristics. The zirconia xerogels and aerogels retain their hydrophobicity up to around 400 °C as confirmed from the TG‐DSC analysis. Further, the X‐ray diffractogram indicates the amorphous nature of the zirconia xerogels and aerogels.
Studies on Improvement of Mechanical Stability of Silica Coatings
Authors: Kavale Mahendra Suhas , Karande Subhash Shabu
Published: December 2021

Superficial defects are the prominent drawbacks of the most usual real‐world surfaces. The response of the coatings to the external deforming scratches is an issue of an importance when industrial applications are concerned. It is very well known that, the network of silica not only in the aerogels but also in coatings is weaker. In this study, the role of polymethylmethacrylate blended with the silica particles is studies. Also, the sol–gel parameters to obtain hydrophobic and scratch resistance silica coatings on glass are modified. The mechanical strength of the coating from 6 B to B is enhanced. The hydrophobicity of coatings is quantified by water drop contact angle. The measured contact angle values are 149° and sliding angle 4°. Scanning electron microscopy reveals dual assembly of micro and nanoparticles of the order of 100–500 nm. These coatings are examined through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, surface roughness, etc.
Preparation and Optical Characterization of PMMA Thin Films of C1
Authors: Sharma Kalpana , Melavanki Raveendra , Yallur Basappa C , Kusanur Raviraj , Patil N R
Published: December 2021

In this study, thin films of PMMA (poly methylmethacrylate) and chalcones are prepared via drop casting method. A newly synthesized Chalcone derivative namely 1‐(3‐Methoxy‐phenyl)‐3‐(4‐napthalen‐yl)‐propenone (C1) are used for doping films with different concentrations. Films prepared are transparent and so they are considered for analysis in photonic applications. Different spectroscopic techniques are used for optical characterization of the samples. From the absorption spectra, optical parameters are determined like band gap energies, refractive index, and extinction coefficient. The way these parameters are affected by doping concentration is studied and plotted graphically. The doping effect is also analyzed on emission spectra. Also, FTIR spectra for doped films is determined and compared with that of the pure compound to notice alterations in the peak values so as to note the change in intensities.
Studies on Biosensing Properties of Electrodeposited Copper Oxide Films
Authors: Pagare Pavan K. , Kanade Kaluram G. , Jadhav Harsharaj S. , Torane Appasaheb P.
Published: December 2021

The copper oxide (CuO) based films have been prepared for biosensing application. Electrodeposition mode has been used for preparation of CuO films on cost effective stainless steel substrates. The structural properties of CuO material are studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and it shows (ī11) more intensive plane. Hierarchical multilayer nanosheets clusters have been displayed in scanning electron microscopic images. The energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX) pattern displays wt% of Cu and oxygen in CuO material and it is found to be 52.80% and 57.61%. The glucose sensing of CuO electrodes is carried out in NaOH and glucose electrolyte at different concentration of glucose and 10–50 mV s−1 scan rates. The effect of glucose sensing on CuO electrode has been studied.
Sex‐Specific Effects of Maternal and Post‐Weaning High‐Fat Diet on Adipose Tissue Remodeling and Asprosin Expression in Mice Offspring
Authors: Yang Zhao , Jiang Jianan , Chen Miao , Huang Jiaqi , Liu Jing , Wei Xiaojing , Jia Ru , Song Lin , Sun Bo , Luo Xiao , Song Qing , Han Zhen
Published: December 2021

Scope

Perinatal high‐fat diet (HFD) increases risk of metabolic disorders in offspring. Adipose tissue remodeling is associated with metabolic syndrome. The current study characterizes the profile of maternal HFD‐induced changes in adipose tissue remodeling and adipokines expression in mice offspring.

Methods and Results

Female C57BL/6 mice are fed with CHOW or HFD for 2 weeks before mating, throughout gestation and lactation. At weaning, pups are randomly fed with CHOW or HFD, resulting in eight groups according to sex and maternal diet: Male CHOW‐CHOW (MCC), Male CHOW‐HFD (MCH), Male HFD‐CHOW (MHC), Male HFD‐HFD (MHH), Female CHOW‐CHOW (FCC), Female CHOW‐HFD (FCH), Female HFD‐CHOW (FHC), and Female HFD‐HFD (FHH). Increased body weight, impaired glucose tolerance, increased adipose tissue mass and hypertrophy, and decreased circulating asprosin level are only observed in male offspring exposure to maternal HFD. Serum asprosin level negatively correlates with fasting blood glucose, serum cholesterol (CHO), and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, while positively correlates with serum low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and glutamate‐oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) levels in male offspring. A combination of genetic and biochemical analyses of adipokines shows the depot‐ and sex‐specific changes in response to maternal and/or post‐weaning HFD.

Conclusion

This study's results reveal the differential metabolic changes in response to maternal and/or post‐weaning HFD in male and female offspring. The effect of maternal HFD on metabolic phonotype is more obvious in male offspring, supporting the notion that males are more susceptible to HFD‐induced metabolic disorders.
The Keystone device as a clinical tool for measuring the supination resistance of the foot: A reliability study
Authors: Moisan Gabriel , McBride Sean , Isabelle Pier‐Luc , Chicoine Dominic
Published: December 2021

Background

The supination resistance test (SRT) is a kinetic test used in clinical and research contexts to estimate the amount of force required to supinate the foot. Previous studies either used a manual, less reliable version of this test or a more reliable instrumented version, but with devices inconvenient for clinical use. The clinically available Keystone device has been developed for the SRT, and could be better suited for clinical purposes. The objective of this study is to determine the intrarater and interrater reliability of the Keystone device for the SRT.

Method

Thirty young adults underwent two prospective experimental sessions, 1 week apart, during which SRT measures with the Keystone device were registered. Intrarater and interrater reliability were calculated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable difference (MDD) and limits of agreements (LoA).

Results

The intrarater reliability of the SRT was good (ICC = 0.86, p < 0.001). The SEM, MDD and 95% LoA were 7.3, 20.4 and −31.6–14.3 N, respectively. The interrater reliability of the SRT was good (ICC = 0.76, p < 0.001). The SEM, MDD and 95% LoA were 9.0, 24.9 and −36.6–24.9 N, respectively.

Conclusion

The Keystone device is a reliable tool that can be used in clinical and research contexts. Prospective studies aiming to determine if SRT measures are predictors of musculoskeletal injuries or if they can predict the effects of external supports on the biomechanics of the foot and ankle are warranted.
Pancreatic fat relates to fasting insulin and postprandial lipids but not polycystic ovary syndrome in adolescents with obesity
Authors: Ware Meredith A. , Kaar Jill L. , Diniz Behn Cecilia , Bartlette Kai , Carreau Anne‐Marie , Lopez‐Paniagua Dan , Scherzinger Ann , Xie Danielle , Rahat Haseeb , Garcia‐Reyes Yesenia , Nadeau Kristen J. , Cree‐Green Melanie
Published: December 2021

Objective

Adolescents with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and obesity can have insulin resistance, dysglycemia, and hepatic steatosis. Excess pancreatic fat may disturb insulin secretion and relate to hepatic fat. Associations between pancreatic fat fraction (PFF) and metabolic measures in PCOS were unknown.

Methods

This secondary analysis included 113 sedentary, nondiabetic adolescent girls (age = 15.4 [1.9] years), with or without PCOS and BMI ≥ 90th percentile. Participants underwent fasting labs, oral glucose tolerance tests, and magnetic resonance imaging for hepatic fat fraction (HFF) and PFF. Groups were categorized by PFF (above or below the median of 2.18%) and compared.

Results

Visceral fat and HFF were elevated in individuals with PCOS versus control individuals, but PFF was similar. PFF did not correlate with serum androgens. Higher and lower PFF groups had similar HFF, with no correlation between PFF and HFF, although hepatic steatosis was more common in those with higher PFF (≥5.0% HFF; 60% vs. 36%; p = 0.014). The higher PFF group had higher fasting insulin (p = 0.026), fasting insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, p = 0.032; 1/fasting insulin, p = 0.028), free fatty acids (p = 0.034), and triglycerides (p = 0.004) compared with those with lower PFF. β‐Cell function and insulin sensitivity were similar between groups.

Conclusions

Neither PCOS status nor androgens related to PFF. However, fasting insulin and postprandial lipids were worse with higher PFF.
Synthesis of new aliphatic poly(ester‐carbonate)s bearing amino groups based on photolabile protecting group and evaluation of antibacterial property
Authors: Li Kaiqi , Liu Xiliang , Chen Long , Xiong Zuochun , Xiong Chengdong , Chen Dongliang
Published: December 2021

Amino‐functionalized six‐membered cyclic carbonate 5‐((2‐nitrobenzyl) amino)‐1,3‐dioxan‐2‐one (NBAC) was synthesized with 2‐nitrobenzyl group as photolabile protecting group. The following copolymerization was carried out by using l‐lactide as comonomer and Sn (Oct)2 as catalyst. The amino‐functionalized polymer P(LA‐co‐AC) was obtained by ultraviolet irradiation of P(LA‐co‐NBAC) to remove the protecting group. The structures of products were confirmed by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and 13C NMR analysis. The pendant amino groups not only resulted in an enhancement of the hydrophilicity, but also played a role of antibacterial effect due to the positive charge imparted to the material.
Investing in the future of science: Assessing UK environmental science engagement with school‐aged children
Authors: Hobbs Laura , Stevens Carly
Published: December 2021

Societal Impact Statement

Currently, there is no national overview of environmental science engagement in the United Kingdom. Children are key stakeholders in the future of science more generally and environmental science specifically. Appraising the situation immediately before the United Kingdom first entered lockdown due to the COVID‐19 pandemic allows both assessment of the achievements of the UK environmental science engagement field before the impacts of the changes resulting from the pandemic, and an up‐to‐date baseline by which to assess those impacts and identify existing gaps to be addressed post‐pandemic. Results indicate that support is needed to increase reach and recognition of the importance of engagement, particularly in rural areas and outside Southeast England.

Scoping research was carried out as the first step towards addressing knowledge gaps around engagement of school‐aged children with environmental science in the United Kingdom. Key objectives were identifying which institutions carry out this engagement, its scope and where further engagement is needed, and assessing visibility of projects. Examples of good practice were also highlighted to inform the wider community. This was carried out via systematic online searches and an online survey of UK‐based environmental science engagement professionals, February to March 2020.

Most projects were operating locally with a smaller proportion also operating nationally or internationally. Remote engagement comprised a low proportion of delivery, with most projects engaging children in school during school time, using practical sessions. Universities, charities, trusts and societies comprised the majority of hosting institutions. Visiting a low number of schools, a low number of times per year was common, although some projects reached thousands of children in many schools. There was a focus on reaching children aged 7–14 years, relatively evenly split between primary and secondary phases. All major environmental science themes were well represented.

Most evaluation and reporting was simple and descriptive, and while key areas for expansion included widening reach in terms of numbers and geography, funding was highlighted as a barrier to achieving this.

Results give a snapshot of the state of play before the United Kingdom entered lockdown during the COVID‐19 pandemic, also providing a baseline by which to assess impacts post‐pandemic.
Cyclic control equilibria for switched systems with applications to ecological systems
Authors: Anderson Alejandro L. , Abuin Pablo , Ferramosca Antonio , Hernandez‐Vargas Esteban A. , Gonzalez Alejandro H.
Published: December 2021

The main contribution of this article is to provide the key concept—from a control point of view—of a region of the state space called cyclic control equilibria, which is a permanence region for switched systems under arbitrary waiting‐time constraints. The study also includes a discussion about the typical permanence regions (steady‐states, multiple equilibria, and invariant sets), and the reasons why these regions (except for the origin) fail to be useful as a control target for switched systems under waiting‐times constraints. The theoretical results and the proposed algorithm to compute cyclic control equilibria are tested via illustrative examples. Also, simulation results concerning the control of a population ecological system are given, where it is shown that the ecological communities can be stabilized at desired regions out of the origin, by means of sequences of modes that fulfill arbitrary waiting‐time constraints.
Porphyrin‐Based Nanostructures for Cancer Theranostics: Chemistry, Fundamentals and Recent Advances
Authors: Qindeel Maimoona , Sargazi Saman , Hosseinikhah Seyedeh Maryam , Rahdar Abbas , Barani Mahmood , Thakur Vijay Kumar , Pandey Sadanand , Mirsafaei Razieh
Published: December 2021

As heterocyclic macrocycle organic compounds, porphyrins can generate a rich platform of chemical behavior and characteristics conveniently utilized for multiple bioapplications, including bio‐sensors, fluorescence tracking, and in vivo imaging. The conjugation of nanotechnology and porphyrins presents a promising approach to enhance the safety and effectiveness of porphyrin‐based materials in phototherapy against cancer. Several nanoformulations, including organic and inorganic nanocarriers, porphyrin‐laden nanoparticles, porphyrin‐based amphiphilic molecules, supramolecular polymers, and porphyrin‐based block copolymers, have been investigated to deliver porphyrins, which protect the pre‐mature release of photosensitizer and provide tumor‐selective and site‐specific targeting. The monodisperse nanoparticles formed of biocompatible building block conjugates can be beneficially used to develop a multifunctional novel system utilized in optical imaging, positron emission tomography, photodynamic therapy, photothermal therapy, and other imaging modalities in one formulation. This topic is important because exploiting and knowing porphyrin‐based nanostructures aids in detecting pathological damages that cannot readily be discovered by routine imaging or physical examination and thus, helps early diagnosis of cancer. This critical review will assess the basic knowledge and updated information for a broad audience of scientists, engineers, and newcomers related to the porphyrin‐based nanostructures for cancer theranostics
Visible‐Light‐Promoted Synthesis of Fusesd Imidazoheterocycle by Eosin Y under Metal‐Free and Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Singh Himanshu Kumar , Kamal Arsala , Kumari Savita , Maury Suresh Kumar , Kushwaha Ambuj Kumar , Srivastava Vandana , Singh Sundaram
Published: December 2021

A mild, efficient, solvent free, metal free and operationally simple visible light promoted multicomponent reaction of styrene, 2‐aminopyrimidine, and t‐butyl isocyanide have been been gathered to provide a variety of fusesd fused imidazoheterocycle using Eosin Y as a photocatalyst. This approach delivers good to excellent yields of imidazoheterocycle using readily accessible and economical starting materials under ambient conditions. The reaction provides a broad substrate scope and is compatible with several functional groups.
Incense Sticks Ash Extract, an Efficient and Sustainable Medium for Michael Addition Reaction
Authors: Rani Patra Snigdha , Choudhary Munmun , Mallick Sadhucharan , Bhunia Sabyasachi , Das Debjit
Published: December 2021

A convenient and environmentally benign protocol for Michael addition has been developed using water extract of incense sticks ash (WEISA) at room temperature. This is the first report to utilize WEISA as an effective and renewable medium for the formation of C−C and C−S bonds via Michael addition of readily available chalcones and various nucleophiles like malononitrile, benzyl cyanide, nitromethane and thiols. WEISA is generated from waste material, therefore, the present development is eco‐friendly and cost‐effective. The corresponding Michael adducts were isolated with high yields by simple precipitation and sequential washing with aqueous ethanol; avoids the extraction and column chromatographic purification steps. The other significant features of the developed protocol are the clean reaction profile, high functional group tolerance, large‐scale synthesis, and reusability of reaction media. Additionally, a straightforward application of this methodology is shown in the synthesis of biologically relevant 2‐amino‐4H‐chromene derivatives.
Carbonnetzwerkbogen – Erfahrungen aus der Erstanwendung von Netzwerkhängern aus Carbon
Authors: Haspel Lorenz
Published: December 2021

Die Entscheidung, bei der Stadtbahnbrücke erstmals Zugglieder aus Carbon für die Hänger eines Netzwerkbogens einzusetzen, wurde zunächst vor dem Aspekt der außergewöhnlich guten Ermüdungsfestigkeit und der daraus resultierenden möglichen Reduktion der Querschnitte getroffen. Erst in der weiteren Planung zeigte sich das Potenzial dieser Lösung auch im Hinblick auf das Gesamttragverhalten des Systems Netzwerkbogen durch Vergleichmäßigung der Hängerkräfte, Vermeidung von auf Druck ausfallenden Hängern sowie die vorteilhaften dynamischen Eigenschaften der leichten, hoch vorgespannten Zugglieder. Ergänzend zu den bereits veröffentlichten Beiträgen zum Entwurf und Tragverhalten der Stadtbahnbrücke, dem Tragprinzip des Carbonnetzwerkbogens und zu deren Fertigung und Montage soll in diesem Beitrag auf die Carbonhänger und deren Verankerungen an Bogen und Deck eingegangen werden.
Inhibition ofUSP15ameliorates high‐glucose‐induced oxidative stress and inflammatory injury in podocytes through regulation of theKeap1/Nrf2signaling
Authors: Xu Erdi , Yin Chunyan , Yi Xiaoqing , Liu Yuesheng
Published: December 2021

Ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 15 (USP15) is implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases. However, whether USP15 plays a role in diabetic nephropathy remains undetermined. This project was designed to determine the potential role of USP15 in mediating high glucose (HG)‐induced podocyte injury, a key event in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy. We found that USP15 levels were elevated in podocytes after HG stimulation. Inhibition of USP15 led to decreases in HG‐evoked apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammation in podocytes. Further investigation showed that inhibition of USP15 enhanced the activation of NF‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and expression of Nrf2 target genes in HG‐simulated podocytes. Moreover, depletion of Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) diminished the regulatory effect of USP15 inhibition on Nrf2 activation. In addition, Nrf2 suppression reversed USP15‐inhibition‐induced protective effects in HG‐injured podocytes. Taken together, these data indicate that USP15 inhibition protects podocytes from HG‐induced injury by enhancing Nrf2 activation via Keap1.
Age of sexual maturity and factors associated with neutering dogs in the UK and the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Da Costa Rosa E. P. , Kinsman Rachel H. , Owczarczak‐Garstecka Sara C. , Casey Rachel A. , Tasker Séverine , Knowles Toby G. , Woodward Joshua L. , Lord Michelle S. , Murray Jane K.
Published: December 2021

Background

Surgical neutering of dogs is common, however the average age that dogs reach sexual maturity, are neutered, and dog owners’ attitudes to neutering in the UK and the Republic of Ireland have not been explored in a longitudinal study.

Methods

Owner‐reported data on the timing of the first oestrus, timing of neutering and the reasons given for neutering dogs by 12 and 15 months of age were summarised. Factors associated with neutering at 15 months and factors associated with intention to neuter were quantified using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

At 15 months of age, 90.0% (n = 207/230) of unneutered females had had their first oestrus. By 7, 9, 12 and 15 months of age, 22.1% (n = 131/593), 32.2% (197/593), 45.4% (n = 269/593) and 59.9% (n = 352/593) of dogs were neutered, respectively. Breed purity, dog's source, owners’ intentions to neuter and the number of dogs in the household were associated with neuter status at age 15 months. Dog's sex, Kennel Club registration, dog's source, dogs intended to be working dogs and previous dog ownership were associated with intentions to neuter. Preventing puppies was the most common reason for neutering.

Conclusion

Understanding factors that shape owners’ intentions to neuter can inform owner‐vet discussions regarding whether to neuter a dog and the optimal age for doing so.
Comparison of concanavalin A and poly‐l‐lysine as cell adhesives for routine yeast microscopy applications
Authors: Caloca Bryanna , Navarro Alejandro , Canales‐Torres Marcelino , Le Brittany , Rosas Carol , Sero Zig , Bachant Jeff
Published: December 2021

A frequently encountered problem with imaging budding yeast specimens by light microscopy is that the cells do not adhere well to glass microscope slides. Frustratingly, cells that initially appear stationary in the visual field often become displaced and float away. The development of immunofluorescence microscopy methods for yeast led to the widespread use of poly‐l‐lysine as an adhesive for cell immobilization. More recently, the lectin‐binding protein concanavalin A has also been used as an adhesive that may be less familiar to yeast investigators. Here, we directly compare the ability of poly‐l‐lysine and concanavalin A to adhere yeast to glass microscope slides using several different assays. Using a simple coating procedure, we find that 1‐mg/ml concanavalin A proves superior to various concentrations of poly‐l‐lysine under all conditions tested and that concanavalin A can be used as an adhesive for live cell imaging without impairing yeast proliferation or cell division kinetics. Importantly, we also delineate forms of sample preparation that are or are not compatible with concanavalin A. Overall, we hope our findings will bring concanavalin A to the attention of a broad spectrum of the yeast community for their microscopy needs.
Truncated cluster algebras and Feynman integrals with algebraic letters
Authors: He Song , Li Zhenjie , Yang Qinglin
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We propose that the symbol alphabet for classes of planar, dual-conformal-invariant Feynman integrals can be obtained as truncated cluster algebras purely from their kinematics, which correspond to boundaries of (compactifications of) G+(4, n)/T for the n-particle massless kinematics. For one-, two-, three-mass-easy hexagon kinematics with n = 7, 8, 9, we find finite cluster algebras D4, D5 and D6 respectively, in accordance with previous result on alphabets of these integrals. As the main example, we consider hexagon kinematics with two massive corners on opposite sides and find a truncated affine D4 cluster algebra whose polytopal realization is a co-dimension 4 boundary of that of G+(4, 8)/T with 39 facets; the normal vectors for 38 of them correspond to g-vectors and the remaining one gives a limit ray, which yields an alphabet of 38 rational letters and 5 algebraic ones with the unique four-mass-box square root. We construct the space of integrable symbols with this alphabet and physical first-entry conditions, whose dimension can be reduced using conditions from a truncated version of cluster adjacency. Already at weight 4, by imposing last-entry conditions inspired by the n = 8 double-pentagon integral, we are able to uniquely determine an integrable symbol that gives the algebraic part of the most generic double-pentagon integral. Finally, we locate in the space the n = 8 double-pentagon ladder integrals up to four loops using differential equations derived from Wilson-loop d log forms, and we find a remarkable pattern about the appearance of algebraic letters.
The three-loop MHV octagon from $$ \overline{Q} $$ equations
Authors: Li Zhenjie , Zhang Chi
Published: December 2021

Abstract

The $$ \overline{Q} $$

Q
¯

equations, rooted in the dual superconformal anomalies, are a powerful tool for computing amplitudes in planar $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills theory. By using the $$ \overline{Q} $$

Q
¯

equations, we compute the symbol of the first MHV amplitude with algebraic letters — the three-loop 8-point amplitude (or the octagon remainder function) — in this theory. The symbol alphabet for this amplitude consists of 204 independent rational letters and shares the same 18 algebraic letters with the two-loop 8-point NMHV amplitude.
Applications of Data Driven Methods in Computational Materials Design
Authors: Dösinger Christoph , Spitaler Tobias , Reichmann Alexander , Scheiber Daniel , Romaner Lorenz
Published: December 2021

In today’s digitized world, large amounts of data are becoming available at rates never seen before. This holds true also for materials science where high-throughput simulations and experiments continuously produce new data. Data driven methods are required which can make best use of the information stored in large data repositories. In the present article, two of such data driven methods are presented. First, we apply machine learning to generalize and extend the results obtained from computationally intense density functional theory (DFT) simulations. We show how grain boundary segregation energies can be trained with gradient boosting regression and extended to many more positions in the grain boundary for a complete description. The second method relies on Bayesian inference, which can be used to calibrate models to give data and quantification of the model uncertainty. The method is applied to calibrate parameters in thermodynamic models of the Gibbs energy of Ti-W alloys. The uncertainty of the model parameters is quantified and propagated to the phase boundaries of the Ti-W system.
Extracellular citrate and metabolic adaptations of cancer cells
Authors: Parkinson E. Kenneth , Adamski Jerzy , Zahn Grit , Gaumann Andreas , Flores-Borja Fabian , Ziegler Christine , Mycielska Maria E.
Published: December 2021

It is well established that cancer cells acquire energy via the Warburg effect and oxidative phosphorylation. Citrate is considered to play a crucial role in cancer metabolism by virtue of its production in the reverse Krebs cycle from glutamine. Here, we review the evidence that extracellular citrate is one of the key metabolites of the metabolic pathways present in cancer cells. We review the different mechanisms by which pathways involved in keeping redox balance respond to the need of intracellular citrate synthesis under different extracellular metabolic conditions. In this context, we further discuss the hypothesis that extracellular citrate plays a role in switching between oxidative phosphorylation and the Warburg effect while citrate uptake enhances metastatic activities and therapy resistance. We also present the possibility that organs rich in citrate such as the liver, brain and bones might form a perfect niche for the secondary tumour growth and improve survival of colonising cancer cells. Consistently, metabolic support provided by cancer-associated and senescent cells is also discussed. Finally, we highlight evidence on the role of citrate on immune cells and its potential to modulate the biological functions of pro- and anti-tumour immune cells in the tumour microenvironment. Collectively, we review intriguing evidence supporting the potential role of extracellular citrate in the regulation of the overall cancer metabolism and metastatic activity.
A new operational approach for understanding water-related interactions to achieve water sustainability in growing cities
Authors: Torres López Susana , Barrionuevo Maria de los Angeles , Rodríguez-Labajos Beatriz
Published: December 2021

About 56 percent of the world’s population currently lives in cities. Anthropogenic activities have both directly and indirectly modified their environment. Therefore, management actions at the urban level determine whether or not cities are heading toward sustainability. Consequently, water management is in need of a clear insight of the social and ecological water-related interactions. Thus, a new operational approach is proposed for a better understanding of the interactions between the water cycle, cities and the society. In our approach, eleven key issues and their interactions emerge from an analysis of 371 documents published between 2012 and 2018. The interactions between different key issues were examined through four main foci of analysis: water resources, urban throughput, water equity, and water governance and financing. Those main foci help to comprehend water as a holistic element intertwined in urban areas. In addition, our approach provides six challenges to guide the stakeholders in decision-making processes: how to recognize, integrate, and/or restore water-related ecosystem services, how to maintain and improve the supporting green and blue spaces, how to guarantee the quality and quantity of water resources and the water supplied and used, how to ensure public and social health and well-being of the citizens, how to prevent and manage water-related conflicts, and how to make informed and equitable decisions on water management at urban level?
Entwicklung des Einsamkeitsempfindens im Alter in Zeiten von COVID-19
Authors: Richter Lukas , Heidinger Theresa
Published: December 2021

Der Beitrag betrachtet die Einsamkeitsentwicklung vor und in den ersten Monaten der Covid-19-Pandemie vor dem Hintergrund sozioökonomischer Lagen älterer Menschen. Hierfür werden Varianzanalysen mit Daten aus Niederösterreich aus zwei Surveys (vor und während der Covid-19-Pandemie) durchgeführt. Die Analysen zeigen, dass es sich bei älteren Menschen nicht um eine homogene Gruppe handelt, das Einsamkeitsniveau also bereits vor der Pandemie divergent ausgeprägt war und sich diese bestehenden Unterschiede während der Pandemie mit geringer Variation weitgehend auf einem etwas höheren Niveau erhalten haben.
Evidence for interactive common causes. Resuming the Cartwright-Hausman-Woodward debate
Authors: Näger Paul M.
Published: December 2021

The most serious candidates for common causes that fail to screen off (‘interactive common causes’, ICCs) and thus violate the causal Markov condition (CMC) refer to quantum phenomena. In her seminal debate with Hausman and Woodward, Cartwright early on focussed on unfortunate non-quantum examples. Especially, Hausman and Woodward’s redescriptions of quantum cases saving the CMC remain unchallenged. This paper takes up this lose end of the discussion and aims to resolve the debate in favour of Cartwright’s position. It systematically considers redescriptions of ICC structures, including those by Hausman and Woodward, and explains why these are inappropriate, when quantum mechanics (in an objective collapse interpretation) is true. It first shows that all cases of purported quantum ICCs are cases of entanglement and then, using the tools of causal modelling, it provides an analysis of the quantum mechanical formalism for the case that the collapse of entangled systems is best described as a causal model with an ICC.
Purifying applied mathematics and applying pure mathematics: how a late Wittgensteinian perspective sheds light onto the dichotomy
Authors: Pérez-Escobar José Antonio , Sarikaya Deniz
Published: December 2021

In this work we argue that there is no strong demarcation between pure and applied mathematics. We show this first by stressing non-deductive components within pure mathematics, like axiomatization and theory-building in general. We also stress the “purer” components of applied mathematics, like the theory of the models that are concerned with practical purposes. We further show that some mathematical theories can be viewed through either a pure or applied lens. These different lenses are tied to different communities, which endorse different evaluative standards for theories. We evaluate the distinction between pure and applied mathematics from a late Wittgensteinian perspective. We note that the classical exegesis of the later Wittgenstein’s philosophy of mathematics, due to Maddy, leads to a clear-cut but misguided demarcation. We then turn our attention to a more niche interpretation of Wittgenstein by Dawson, which captures aspects of the aforementioned distinction more accurately. Building on this newer, maverick interpretation of the later Wittgenstein’s philosophy of mathematics, and endorsing an extended notion of meaning as use which includes social, mundane uses, we elaborate a fuzzy, but more realistic, demarcation. This demarcation, relying on family resemblance, is based on how direct and intended technical applications are, the kind of evaluative standards featured, and the range of rhetorical purposes at stake.
Analytical and numerical comparisons of two methods of estimation of additive × additive × additive interaction of QTL effects
Authors: Cyplik Adrian , Bocianowski Jan
Published: December 2021

This paper presents the analytical and numerical comparison of two methods of estimation of additive × additive × additive (aaa) interaction of QTL effects. The first method takes into account only the plant phenotype, while in the second we also included genotypic information from molecular marker observation. Analysis was made on 150 doubled haploid (DH) lines of barley derived from cross Steptoe × Morex and 145 DH lines from Harrington × TR306 cross. In total, 153 sets of observation was analyzed. In most cases, aaa interactions were found with an exert effect on QTL. Results also show that with molecular marker observations, obtained estimators had smaller absolute values than phenotypic estimators.
Passive solar house prototype design with a new bio-based material for a semi-arid climate
Authors: Boulebbina Cherif , Mebarki Ghazali , Rahal Samir
Published: December 2021

In this study, a passive solar house prototype was built using Trombe wall and was tested in the semi-arid region of Batna, in eastern Algeria. Traditional local materials (stone and adobe) were used for the construction of the thermal storage wall. A new local bio-based material made from date palm trunks was used for the insulation of the passive house prototype. For a better understanding of passive house heating and for a comparative study, a numerical simulation, using Fluent, was carried out. The aim of this study was to supply recommendations for improving the passive systems and to participate to the energy consumption control in the building sector. The results show that the experimental and numerical simulation results are in good agreement. The optimal orientation of the solar passive house has been determined, which is at 160° southeast. The use of local and bio-based materials has proven its effectiveness in the construction of the passive house. The thermal behavior of date palm wood has been found to be close to those of insulation materials commonly used in buildings. That means it has the same thermal insulation ability (thermal conductivity). On the other hand, the results show that the thermal efficiency of the passive solar heating system, with an adobe wall is significantly higher (50%) than that with a stone wall (30.7%).
Green road–rail intermodal routing problem with improved pickup and delivery services integrating truck departure time planning under uncertainty: an interactive fuzzy programming approach
Authors: Sun Yan , Yu Nan , Huang Baoliang
Published: December 2021

This paper addresses the multi-objective optimization for the road–rail intermodal routing problem that aims to minimize the total costs and carbon dioxide emissions of the routes. To achieve high timeliness of the entire transportation process, pickup and delivery services are simultaneously improved based on the employment of fuzzy soft time windows to measure their service levels. The modeling of road–rail intermodal routing considers fixed schedules of rail and time flexibility of road to match the real-world transportation scenario, in which travel times and carbon dioxide emission factors of road services are considered to be time-varying. To improve the feasibility of the routing, uncertainty of travel times and carbon dioxide emission factors of road services and capacities of rail services are incorporated into the problem. By applying trapezoidal fuzzy numbers to formulate the uncertainty, we propose a fuzzy multi-objective nonlinear optimization model for the routing problem that integrates the truck departure time planning for road services. After processing the model with fuzzy chance-constrained programming and linearization, we obtain an auxiliary equivalent crisp linear model and solve it by designing an interactive fuzzy programming approach with the Bounded Objective Function method. Based on an empirical case study, we demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach and discuss the effects of improving the confidence levels and service levels on the optimization results. The case analysis reveals several managerial insights that help to realize an efficient transportation organization by making effective trade-offs among lowering costs, reducing emissions, improving service levels, and enhancing feasibility.
The Making of an Alliance
Authors: Tal David
Published: December 2021

Laying the foundation for an understanding of US-Israeli relations, this lively and accessible book provides critical background on the origins and development of the 'special' relations between Israel and the United States. Questioning the usual neo-realist approach to understanding this relationship, David Tal instead suggests that the relations between the two nations were constructed on idealism, political culture, and strategic ties. Based on a diverse range of primary sources collected in archives in both Israel and the United States, The Making of an Alliance discusses the development of relations built through constant contact between people and ideas, showing how presidents and Prime Ministers, state officials, and ordinary people from both countries, impacted one another. It was this constancy of religion, values, and history, serving the bedrock of the relations between the two countries and peoples, over which the ephemeral was negotiated.