bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in body mass index, obesity, and overweight in Southern Africa development countries, 1990 to 2019: Findings from the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study
Authors: Gona Philimon N. , Kimokoti Ruth W. , Gona Clara M. , Ballout Suha , Rao Sowmya R. , Mapoma Chabila C. , Lo Justin , Mokdad Ali H.
Published: May 2021

Background

High body mass index (BMI) is associated with stroke, ischemic heart disease (IHD), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). An epidemiological analysis of the prevalence of high BMI, stroke, IHD, and T2DM was conducted for 16 Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) using Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors (GBD) Study data.

Methods

GBD obtained data from vital registration, verbal autopsy, and ICD codes. Prevalence of high BMI (≥25 kg/m2), stroke, IHD, and T2DM attributed to high BMI were calculated. Cause of Death Ensemble Model and Spatiotemporal Gaussian regression was used to estimate mortality due to stroke, IHD, and T2DM attributable to high BMI.

Results

Obesity in adult females increased 1.54‐fold from 12.0% (uncertainty interval [UI]: 11.5–12.4) to 18.5% (17.9–19.0), whereas in adult males, obesity nearly doubled from 4.5 (4.3–4.8) to 8.8 (8.5–9.2). In children, obesity more than doubled in both sexes, and overweight increased by 27.4% in girls and by 37.4% in boys. Mean BMI increased by 0.7 from 22.4 (21.6–23.1) to 23.1 (22.3–24.0) in adult males, and by 1.0 from 23.8 (22.9–24.7) to 24.8 (23.8–25.8) in adult females. South Africa 44.7 (42.5–46.8), Swaziland 33.9 (31.7–36.0) and Lesotho 31.6 (29.8–33.5) had the highest prevalence of obesity in 2019. The corresponding prevalence in males for the three countries were 19.1 (17.5–20.7), 19.3 (17.7–20.8), and 9.2 (8.4–10.1), respectively. The DRC and Madagascar had the least prevalence of adult obesity, from 5.6 (4.8–6.4) and 7.0 (6.1–7.9), respectively in females in 2019, and in males from 4.9 (4.3–5.4) in the DRC to 3.9 (3.4–4.4) in Madagascar.

Conclusions

The prevalence of high BMI is high in SADC. Obesity more than doubled in adults and nearly doubled in children. The 2019 mean BMI for adult females in seven countries exceeded 25 kg/m2. SADC countries are unlikely to meet UN2030 SDG targets. Prevalence of high BMI should be studied locally to help reduce morbidity.
Cu2+ ion crosslinked carboxymethylcellulose/diatomite composite beads as an efficient catalyst for CuAAC reactions
Authors: Zeng Fang , Zhang Mingjuan , Li Yiqun
Published: May 2021

Cu2+‐crosslinked carboxymethylcellulose/diatomite composite beads (CuII@CMC/DE) were prepared in simple and efficient way using ionic crosslinking techniques. In CuII@CMC/DE beads, diatomite serves as a reinforcing filler, and divalent copper cation acts as crosslinking agent. The chemical structure and morphology of as‐fabricated CuII@CMC/DE beads were well characterized using various techniques such as ICP, FT‐IR, XRD, SEM, EDS, elemental mapping, TEM, XPS, and TGA. The CuII@CMC/DE beads exerted superior catalytic performance in CuAAC reactions of benzyl halides, sodium azide, and alkynes to yield regioselected 1,4‐disubstitued‐1,2,3‐triazoles in excellent yields under green conditions. In these resultant catalytic composite beads, Cu2+ was used not only as a crosslinking agent but also as a metal catalyst for CuAAC reaction. The composite beads can be easily separated by filter and reused at least four times without any significant decrease on its activity and selectivity.
Modified boron nitride‐basalt fiber/epoxy resin composite laminates and their enhanced mechanical properties
Authors: Xiong Ting , Wang Nan , Liao Jun , Zhang Yong
Published: May 2021

At present, the application of epoxy resin and its composites was severely restricted by its disadvantages of intrinsic brittleness after curing, poor fatigue strength, and low fracture energy. In order to improve its mechanical performances and broaden its applied range, the modified boron nitride‐basalt fiber/epoxy resin composite laminates (EP‐BF/mBN) were successfully prepared via a hot‐press process by using BF as reinforcement of epoxy resin composites and BN nanosheets treated by codeposition of PDA and PEI as toughening agent. The effects of the concentration of modified BN solution on the mechanical properties of the composites were studied in terms of flexural strength, flexural modulus, the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), and the mode II interlaminar fracture toughness (GIIC). When 6 g L−1 modified BN solution was added, the flexural strength, flexural modulus, ILSS, and GIIC increased by 12.7%, 10.4%, 37.0%, 62.3%, respectively. And flexural strength, flexural modulus, ILSS, and GIIC approached to 894.6 MPa, 34.6 GPa, 60.4 MPa, and 483.9 J m−2, respectively, which was 20.0%, 10.7%, 38.9%, and 68.9% higher than that of EP‐BF at −60°C, suggesting that EP‐BF/mBN even had better mechanical performances at low temperature, which would be widely used in more fields in the future.
The early evolutionary landscape of osteosarcoma provides clues for targeted treatment strategies
Authors: Kovac Michal , Ameline Baptiste , Ribi Sebastian , Kovacova Monika , Cross William , Barenboim Maxim , Witt Olaf , Bielack Stefan , Krieg Andreas , Hartmann Wolfgang , Nathrath Michaela , Baumhoer Daniel
Published: May 2021

Osteosarcomas are aggressive primary tumors of bone that are typically detected in locally advanced stages; however, which genetic mutations drive the cancer before its clinical detection remain unknown. To identify these events, we performed longitudinal genome‐sequencing analysis of 12 patients with metastatic or refractory osteosarcoma. Phylogenetic and molecular clock analyses were carried out next to identify actionable mutations, and these were validated by integrating data from additional 153 osteosarcomas and pre‐existing functional evidence from mouse PDX models. We found that the earliest and thus clinically most promising mutations affect the cell cycle G1 transition, which is guarded by cyclins D3, E1, and cyclin‐dependent kinases 2, 4, and 6. Cell cycle G1 alterations originate no more than a year before the primary tumor is clinically detected and occur in >90% and 50% of patients of the discovery and validation cohorts, respectively. In comparison, other cancer driver mutations could be acquired at any evolutionary stage and often do not become pervasive. Consequently, our data support that the repertoire of actionable mutations present in every osteosarcoma cell is largely limited to cell cycle G1 mutations. Since they occur in mutually exclusive combinations favoring either CDK2 or CDK4/6 pathway activation, we propose a new genomically‐based algorithm to direct patients to correct clinical trial options. © 2021 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration triggers redistribution of nitrogen to promote tillering in rice
Authors: Zhou Juan , Gao Yingbo , Wang Junpeng , Liu Chang , Wang Zi , Lv Minjia , Zhang Xiaoxiang , Zhou Yong , Dong Guichun , Wang Yulong , Huang Jianye , Hui Dafeng , Yang Zefeng , Yao Youli
Published: May 2021

Elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration (eCO2) often reduces nitrogen (N) content in rice plants and stimulates tillering. However, there is a general consensus that reduced N would constrain rice tillering. To resolve this contradiction, we investigated N distribution and transcriptomic changes in different rice plant organs after subjecting them to eCO2 and different N application rates. Our results showed that eCO2 significantly promoted rice tillers (by 0.6, 1.1, 1.7, and 2.1 tillers/plant at 0, 75, 150, and 225 kg N ha−1 N application rates, respectively) and more tillers were produced under higher N application rates, confirming that N availability constrained tillering in the early stages of growth. Although N content declined in the leaves (−11.0 to −20.7 mg g−1) and sheaths (−9.8 to −28.8 mg g−1) of rice plants exposed to eCO2, the N content of newly emerged tillers on plants exposed to eCO2 equaled or exceeded the N content of tillers produced under ambient CO2 conditions. Apparently, the redistribution of N within the plant per se was a critical adaptation strategy to the eCO2 condition. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that eCO2 induced less extensive alteration of gene expression than did N application. Most importantly, the expression levels of multiple N‐related transporters and receptors such as nitrate transporter NRT2.3a/b and NRT1.1a/b were differentially regulated in leaf and shoot apical meristem, suggesting that multiple genes were involved in sensing the N signal and transporting N metabolites to adapt to eCO2. The redistribution of N in different organs could be a universal adaptation strategy of terrestrial plants to eCO2.
Non‐isothermal gas‐assisted displacement of viscous Newtonian fluids at high capillary number in gas‐assisted injection molding
Authors: Kirk Robert J. , Tendulkar Minesh R. , Kolliopoulos Panayiotis K. , Wang Yijie , Shi Xutao , Koelling Kurt W.
Published: May 2021

Gas‐assisted injection molding is a polymer processing technology in which a penetrating gas bubble hollows out a plastic part as it cools and solidifies within a mold. In this study, non‐isothermal gas injection experiments at high capillary number illustrate the effects of delay time in gas injection, tube diameter, capillary number, and temperature‐sensitive fluid viscosity and flow activation energy on coating thickness. Experiments with polybutene H‐300 and Dow Corning silicon oil (DC‐200) in stainless steel tubing (1.27 and 0.635 cm) demonstrated fractional coverage increasing from 0.6 to a maximum in the range of 0.63–0.83 at short delay times, then decaying toward 0.6 at long delay times upon approaching the cooled isothermal state. Further analysis is drawn from simulations based on a simple theoretical model incorporating one‐dimensional heat transfer with convection at the outer surface of the mold, non‐isothermal behavior of the viscous fluid, and radial velocity profiles in the one‐phase fluid flow region. Quantitative agreement is found between experimental and simulated results. Two‐dimensional modeling and simulation methods extend the prior results to illustrate transient axial and radial heat transfer as well as flow behavior with respect to the penetrating gas bubble within the fluid flow region.
Glucagon: Its evolving role in the management of hypoglycemia
Authors: Isaacs Diana , Clements Jennifer , Turco Neil , Hartman Rachel
Published: May 2021

More than 10% of the United States population has diabetes, characterized by hyperglycemia. Insulin and other agents used to treat diabetes predispose people to hypoglycemia, which can be life threatening. Glucagon is an emergency medication that can save lives by quickly raising glucose in people who are unconscious or unable to consume glucose due to severe hypoglycemia. Although glucagon has been commercially available since 1960, earlier formulations required reconstitution of a dry powder with diluent immediately prior to injection, due to lack of long‐term stability once reconstituted. Glucagon has been underutilized due to the lack of confidence or ability to administer in emergency situations. More recently, new formulations including a nasal powder glucagon and liquid‐stable glucagon have become available. This article discusses the evidence surrounding new glucagon formulations compared with the original glucagon emergency kit including ease of use, efficacy, and safety with a focus on important patient counseling points and relevant clinical information on hypoglycemia.
Highly heat‐resistant branched silicon‐containing arylacetylene resins with low curing temperature
Authors: Ling Zhipeng , Zhu Junli , Cai Chunhua , Lin Jiaping , Wang Liquan , Du Lei
Published: May 2021

Silicon‐containing arylacetylene (PSA) resins exhibit excellent thermal stability. However, the high curing temperature limits their applications. Herein, we report that changing the topology of PSA resins from linear to branched effectively decreases their curing temperature with no deterioration of thermal stability. Two sets of resins based on silyleneethynylene–naphthalene–ethynylene (SNP) and silyleneethynylene–phenyl–ethynylene (SPN) repeat units were studied. It is found that the branched resins exhibit considerably lower thermal curing temperatures than their linear counterparts. The exothermic peaks for branched SNP (BSNP) and branched SPN (BSPN) are about 190 and 214 °C, respectively, which are 18 and 25 °C lower than those for their linear counterparts (i.e. PSNP and PSPN). Density functional theory was applied to theoretically explain the differences in the thermal curing temperature between the linear and branched resins. The lower curing temperature of the branched PSAs is attributed to the greater number of terminal alkyne groups per molecule which increases the reactivity of the curing reaction to transform into a crosslinked structure. In addition, Td5 (the temperature at 5% mass loss) for BSNP and BSPN resins are 653 and 613 °C, respectively, which are comparable with those for their linear counterparts. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Incorporating the indigenous evaluation framework for culturally responsive community engagement
Authors: Goforth Anisa N. , Nichols Lindsey M. , Sun Jingjing , Violante Amy , Christopher Kelsey , Graham Niki
Published: May 2021

Native American families, schools, and communities foster resilience among their youth who experience significant mental health disparities. To increase equity in mental health services for Native American students, it is essential that researchers employ culturally responsive community engagement when developing programs in schools. Guided by the Indigenous Evaluation Framework and Tribal Critical Race Theory, the aim of the current study was to examine our process of community engagement in the development of a culturally responsive school‐based mental health program for students attending public school on the land of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. University‐affiliated members of the research team who were engaged in the community‐based participatory action research analyzed the process through individual reflexivity and collaborative discussions. Findings include themes of Centrality of Context and Relationships, Immersion into Community, Authentic Partnership, Storytelling and Metaphors, Community Liaison as Teacher, Cultural Broker, and Confidant, and Honoring Tribal Sovereignty. Implications for researchers and practitioners emphasize the importance of using decolonizing practices and community engagement in developing and implementing culturally responsive school‐based mental health programs to increase equity for Native American youth.
A consensus on the Aquaporin Gene Family in the Allotetraploid Plant, Nicotiana tabacum
Authors: Groszmann Michael , De Rosa Annamaria , Ahmed Jahed , Chaumont François , Evans John R.
Published: May 2021

Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane‐spanning channel proteins with exciting applications for plant engineering and industrial applications. Translational outcomes will be improved by better understanding the extensive diversity of plant AQPs. However, AQP gene families are complex, making exhaustive identification difficult, especially in polyploid species. The allotetraploid species of Nicotiana tabacum (Nt; tobacco) plays a significant role in modern biological research and is closely related to several crops of economic interest, making it a valuable platform for AQP research. Recently, De Rosa et al., (2020) and Ahmed et al., (2020), concurrently reported on the AQP gene family in tobacco, establishing family sizes of 76 and 88 members, respectively. The discrepancy highlights the difficulties of characterizing large complex gene families. Here, we identify and resolve the differences between the two studies, clarify gene models, and yield a consolidated collection of 84 members that more accurately represents the complete NtAQP family. Importantly, this consensus NtAQP collection will reduce confusion and ambiguity that would inevitably arise from having two different descriptive studies and sets of NtAQP gene names. This report also serves as a case study, highlighting and discussing variables to be considered and refinements required to ensure comprehensive gene family characterizations, which become valuable resources for examining the evolution and biological functions of genes.
Recent development of polyimides: Synthesis, processing, and application in gas separation
Authors: Xu Zhen , Croft Zacary L. , Guo Dong , Cao Ke , Liu Guoliang
Published: May 2021

High‐performance polymers have been concomitant with advanced technology for half a century. With the advancement of synthetic chemistry, the recent development of high‐performance polymers has provided superior properties and enabled wide applications. This article reviews recent research progress in aromatic high‐performance polymers. Particularly, we focus on the synthesis and processing of polyimides, as well as the application in gas separation membranes. We begin with a brief introduction to highlight important history and physiochemical characteristics of polyimides. Then, we review the various synthesis methods, followed by recent advances for improving processability. Finally, we evaluate the use of high‐performance polymers in gas separation membranes with focus given to the key issues of plasticization and aging. Overall, the information presented herein provides an up‐to‐date overview of high‐performance polymers, polyimides particularly, and serves as a guide for further research involving the applications in membrane technologies.
Studies on the control effect of Bacillus subtilis on wheat powdery mildew
Authors: Xie Deshan , Cai Xuewei , Yang Chunping , Xie Linjun , Qin Guangwei , Zhang Min , Huang Yong , Gong Guoshu , Chang Xiaoli , Chen Huabao
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Wheat powdery mildew is a worldwide fungal disease and one of the main diseases harming wheat production. Bacillus subtilis is a vital biocontrol bacteria with broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity. In this study, we systematically studied the control effect of B. subtilis on wheat powdery mildew.

RESULTS

The control efficiency of 4 × 105 CFU ml−1 B. subtilis on wheat leaves was 71.75% in vitro and 70.31% in a pot experiment. Application of 4 × 105 CFU ml−1 B. subtilis significantly inhibited spore germination (spore germination rate of 22.23%) and increased appressorium deformity (appressorium deformity rate of 69.33%). This was significantly different from the results in the sterile water treatment. Through transcriptome sequencing analysis, we found that differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in the biosynthesis and metabolism of amino acids (including phenylalanine), carbon metabolism, the pentose phosphate pathway and other pathways. In particular, the plant hormone signal pathway gene nonexpressor of pathogenesis‐related genes 1 (NPR1) was significantly upregulated.

CONCLUSION

B. subtilis at concentrations of 4 × 105 CFU ml−1 had a significant control effect on wheat powdery mildew and can inhibit germination of the conidial germ tubes and the normal development of appressorium. B. subtilis may induce disease resistance in wheat to control wheat powdery mildew, and this effect is related to the salicylic acid‐dependent signal pathway. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Role of Interface Vibrational Modes in Thermal Boundary Resistance
Authors: Stanley Christopher M. , Rader Benjamin K. , Laster Braxton H. D. , Servati Mahsa , Estreicher Stefan K.
Published: May 2021

Understanding how heat flows across interfaces is vital to energy efficiency and thermal stability of many electrical devices. However, the thermal resistance caused by the interface between two materials, termed Kapitza resistance, remains poorly understood. To that end, several first‐principles molecular dynamic simulations and a detailed analysis of the phonon processes and associated transfer of heat at the interfaces of both c‐Si|a‐SiO2 and c‐Si|c‐Ge are presented. It is found that in both cases the interface properties are very important. In the case of c‐Si|a‐SiO2, it is found that interface modes cause inelastic phonon interactions and play a significant role in the total energy transferred. In the case of c‐Si|a‐SiO2, one is able to quantify this effect and find that there is a small set of interface modes which carry >10% of the heat, and decrease the ultimate thermal boundary resistance by 26.5%.
Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell Silicon Solar Cells with a Front Polysilicon Passivating Contacted Selective Emitter
Authors: Yuan Shengzhao , Cui Yanfeng , Zhuang Yufeng , Chen Penghui , Hu Yuting , Yang Bin , Yu Yuanyuan , Ren Yichao , Wang Wenjie , Chen Wenhao , Wan Yimao , Hu Zhigao , Chu Junhao
Published: May 2021

p‐Type silicon solar cells with a structure of passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) are a mainstream product of the photovoltaic (PV) industry. Because of its low cost, PERC technology will continue to be dominant for a long time. One of the key features to improve PERC solar cell performance is the use of a selective emitter (SE), which is now mainly realized by laser doping (LD). However, SE by LD still cannot perfectly resolve recombination underneath the front metallized area. The use of a tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) can dramatically reduce recombination at the metallized area. With the help of an organic mask and etching by texturing solution, the TOPCon SE structure on PERC cells is realized. An average efficiency of 22.65% is reached on 6 in., commercial grade p‐type Czochralski wafers. The average open‐circuit voltage of PERC cells with TOPCon SE is 14.6 mV higher than LD SE. However, the short‐circuit current is lowered by parasitic absorption of polysilicon of alignment margins, which makes cell efficiency of the two SE structures almost the same. With improved alignment precision, TOPCon SE will provide an increase in efficiency.
A nonparametric change detection approach in social networks
Authors: Hazrati‐Marangaloo Hossein , Noorossana Rassoul
Published: May 2021

A network provides powerful means of representing relationships between entities in complex physical, biological, cyber, and social systems. Any phenomena in those areas may be realized as changes in the structure of the associated networks. Hence, change detection in dynamic networks is an important problem in many areas, such as fraud detection, cyber intrusion detection, and health care monitoring. This article proposes a new methodology for monitoring dynamic networks for quick detection of structural changes in network streams and also estimating the location of the change‐point. The proposed methodology utilizes the eigenvalues for the adjacency matrices of network snapshots and employs a nonparametric hypothesis to test if the distribution of the eigenvalues for the current snapshot is different from those of the previous ones along a sliding window of reference networks. The statistic of the nonparametric test, energy distance among eigenvalues, is monitored using a one‐sided exponentially weighted moving average control chart. Then, after an anomaly detection signal from the monitoring scheme, eigenvalues for the snapshots are employed to calculate the energy statistic at various time steps to locate the change‐point. The proposed method is intended to detect two types of structural changes in the networks: (1) change in the communication rates among individuals and (2) change in the community structure of the network. The proposed methodology is applied to both simulated and real‐world data. Results indicate that the proposed methodology provides a reliable tool for monitoring networks streams and also estimating change‐points locations for precise assessing of the networks under investigation.
Automating the IRC‐Analysis within Eyringpy
Authors: Quintal Alan , Dzib Eugenia , Ortíz‐Chi Filiberto , Jaque Pablo , Restrepo Albeiro , Merino Gabriel
Published: May 2021

To analyze the evolution of a chemical property along the reaction path, it is necessary to extract all the information from a set of electronic structure computations. However, this process is time‐consuming and prone to human error. Here we introduce intrinsic reaction coordinate (IRC)‐Analysis, a new extension in Eyringpy, to monitor the evolution of chemical properties along the intrinsic reaction coordinate, including the complete reaction force analysis. IRC‐Analysis collects the entire data set for each snapshot of the reaction coordinate, avoiding human error in data capture, and allowing the study of several chemical reactions in seconds. Eyringpy is written in Python, has a simple input format, and no programming skills are required. Python's Matplotlib library is used for plotting the evolution of the properties along the reaction coordinate. This version can analyze the evolution of bond distances, angles, Wiberg bond indices, natural charges, dipole moments, and orbital energies (and related properties).
Cascaded model‐free predictive control for single‐phase boost power factor correction converters
Authors: Gu Jiayuan , Li Hongmei , Zhang Hengguo , Pan Chen , Luan Zhiyuan
Published: May 2021

Conventionally, the dual‐loop PI controllers are designed for the single‐phase boost power factor correction (PFC) converters operating under continuous conduction mode (CCM), which is not available to perform rapid adaptations to plant uncertainties caused by the different operation modes and the parameter variations. In order to improve the control performance and robustness, a cascaded model‐free predictive control (MFPC) scheme is proposed based on the unified ultra‐local model under CCM and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) for the single‐phase boost power factor correctors. Different from the traditional sluggish PI controllers, the proposed control law is adaptive to the operation mode and sudden variations with the algebraic identification technique, thus providing high‐quality line current and fast dynamic characteristic for the full power operating range. Comparative simulations and experiments with PI control scheme are provided to certificate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Output‐feedback stabilization of a class of stochastic high‐order nonlinear systems with stochastic inverse dynamics and multidelay
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhu Quanxin
Published: May 2021

In this article, the problem of output‐feedback stabilization for a class of stochastic high‐order nonlinear systems with stochastic inverse dynamics and multidelay is studied. In the control scheme, an output‐feedback controller with a reduced‐order observer is designed to globally stabilize the whole system. Different from the classical literature on stochastic upper‐triangular systems, a high‐gain‐based technique is utilized to eliminate the effect of uncertainties in z0‐subsystem. By skillfully choosing suitable forms of the control gains and the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, we analyze the global asymptotic stability in probability of the closed‐loop system. Finally, two simulation examples are presented to show the effectiveness of our theoretical results.
An event‐triggered approach to security control for networked systems using hybrid attack model
Authors: Liu Jinliang , Wang Yuda , Zha Lijuan , Xie Xiangpeng , Tian Engang
Published: May 2021

This article presents an event‐triggered approach to security control for networked systems by using hybrid attack model. Stochastic deception attacks, replay attacks, and denial of service attacks are assumed to occur in the communication network. The main contribution of the article is that an event‐triggered control strategy is presented to stabilize the networked systems based on the hybrid attacks and the network resource limitations. A novel event‐based model for networked control systems under hybrid attacks is established. Based on the proposed model, sufficient conditions are acquired to guarantee the closed‐loop system stability and the controller design method is developed. Finally, two simulation examples are given to validate the feasibility of the proposed method.
Wildfire severity and vegetation recovery drive post‐fire evapotranspiration in a southwestern pine‐oak forest, Arizona, USA
Authors: Poulos Helen M. , Barton Andrew M. , Koch George W. , Kolb Thomas E. , Thode Andrea E.
Published: May 2021

Post‐fire stand water balance is a critical factor influencing tree regeneration and survival, which are often modulated by fire severity. We examined influences of the post‐fire vegetation matrix and fire severity on diurnal, seasonal, and multi‐year variation in evapotranspiration (ET) by analyzing the relationship between post‐fire vegetation and ECOsystem Spaceborne Thermal Radiometer Experiment on the International Space Station (ECOSTRESS) ET data using multivariate and linear mixed effects modeling. Unlike many high‐severity fire sites where ET drops after burning, post‐fire ET was high at shrubland sites that burned at high fire severity in southern Arizona, USA. In this study, post‐fire ET was driven by plant species composition and tree canopy cover. ET was significantly higher in the morning and midday in densely vegetated post‐fire shrublands than pine‐dominated forests that remained 5–7 years after wildfire. Our results demonstrate that plant functional traits such as resprouting and desiccation tolerance drive post‐fire ET patterns, and they are likely to continue to play critical roles in shaping post‐fire plant communities and forest water cycling under future environmental change.
Variable impact of compost on phosphorus dynamics in organic dryland soils following a one‐time application
Authors: Atoloye Idowu A. , Jacobson Astrid , Creech Earl , Reeve Jennifer
Published: May 2021

Prolonged benefits following a single application of compost in organic dryland wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the western United States have been documented, including the long‐term bioavailability of phosphorus (P). Information on the bioavailability and forms of P following a one‐time compost application in marginal organic agroecosystems with low and infrequent use of fertilizers is required to promote sustainability. The goal of this study was to evaluate changes in Hedley P pools following a one‐time application of manure compost and its potential influence on short‐term (3‐yr) P bioavailability. Steer manure compost at 0, 25, and 50 Mg dry weight ha–1 was applied to two organic dryland sites, Snowville and Blue Creek, with contrasting soil characteristics in northern Utah in a randomized complete block design. Potential phosphatase assays, a laboratory aerobic incubation study, and soil P fractionations were carried out to assess the transformation of P 1 and 3 yr after a one‐time compost application. At 0–10 cm, compost application resulted in increased acid phosphatase at Snowville (67.3 vs. 42.7 μg p‐nitrophenol g–1 soil, p = .003), while alkaline phosphatase increased at Blue Creek (124 vs. 49 μg p‐nitrophenol g–1 soil, p = .0185). The path coefficient between compost P and Hedley labile inorganic P was significant at Snowville, but not at Blue Creek, suggesting that the pathways of P differed between the sites. The Hedley stable P pool was a sink of compost P at Snowville but a source at Blue Creek. In conclusion, our work shows that a one‐time compost application had a differential effect on the variation in P dynamics in organic dryland winter wheat–fallow soils. The potential long‐term benefits may be greater in semiarid soils with lower available P levels, higher carbonate levels and pH, and drier conditions.
Conflating marginal and conditional treatment effects: Comments on “Assessing the performance of population adjustment methods for anchored indirect comparisons: A simulation study”
Authors: Remiro‐Azócar Antonio , Heath Anna , Baio Gianluca
Published: May 2021

In this commentary, we highlight the importance of: (1) carefully considering and clarifying whether a marginal or conditional treatment effect is of interest in a population‐adjusted indirect treatment comparison; and (2) developing distinct methodologies for estimating the different measures of effect. The appropriateness of each methodology depends on the preferred target of inference.
Assessing the Effects of Common Topical Exposures on Skin Bacteria Associated with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Castillo C. R. , Alishahedani M. E. , Gough P. , Chaudhary P. P. , Yadav M. , Matriz J. , Myles I. A.
Published: May 2021

Background

While patients and families struggling with atopic dermatitis (AD) have documented concerns for a contributory role of skin care products in AD pathology, nearly all the skin microbiome studies to date have asked participants to avoid topical products (such as soaps or select medications) for the preceding days to weeks prior to sample collection. Thus, given the established role of the microbiome in AD, the interactions between topical exposures, dysbiosis and AD remains underrepresented in the academic literature.

Objectives

To address this knowledge gap, we expanded our previous evaluations to test the toxicological effects of a broader range of common chemicals, AD treatment lotions, creams and ointments using both health- and AD-associated strains of Roseomonas mucosa and Staphylococcus spp.

Methods

Use of in vitro culture techniques and mouse models were deployed to identify chemicals with dysbiotic or pre-biotic potential. A proof-of-concept study was subsequently performed in healthy volunteers to assess global microbiome shifts after exposure to select chemicals using dermatologic patch testing.

Results

Numerous chemicals possessed antibiotic properties, including many not marketed as anti-microbials. Through targeted combination of potentially beneficial chemicals, we identified combinations which promoted the growth of health-associated isolates over disease-associated strains in bacterial culture and enhanced microbe-specific outcomes in an established mouse model of AD; the most promising of which was the combination of citral and colophonium (often sold as lemon myrtle oil and pine tar). Additional studies would likely further optimize the combination of ingredients use. Similar results were seen in the proof-of-concept human studies.

Conclusions

Our results could offer a systematic, multiplex approach to identify which products carry dysbiotic potential and thus may guide formulation of new topicals to benefit patients with AD.
Quantitative software project management with mixed data: A comparison of radial, nonradial, and ensemble data envelopment analysis models
Authors: Pendharkar Parag C. , Rodger James A.
Published: May 2021

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) models are often used for benchmarking software projects, and traditional DEA models only allow for the use of continuous variables. This study considers the use of DEA for datasets with mixed continuous and discrete variables to ranking software projects. It uses the existing radial DEA model and extends the nonradial DEA model to allow for the use of mixed variables. Further efficiency scores from the two DEA models are averaged in an ensemble DEA score. Using three real‐world software engineering datasets, this study finds that the nonradial DEA and the ensemble DEA models have better discriminating power (lower tied efficiency scores) to rank software projects, and the radial DEA model generates more general ranking distribution (higher entropy) of normalized efficiency scores. The choice between selecting radial and nonradial DEA models for ranking software projects appears to depend on the extent to which managers want to introduce bias into the efficiency score ranking distribution. Radial models appear to have a lower bias than nonradial models. The ensemble DEA model appears to be the best performing DEA model for datasets containing two or more discrete and continuous variables.
Single‐Atom Sites on MXenes for Energy Conversion and Storage
Authors: Cui Yanglansen , Cao Zhenjiang , Zhang Yongzheng , Chen Hao , Gu Jianan , Du Zhiguo , Shi Yongzheng , Li Bin , Yang Shubin
Published: May 2021

Single‐atom sites on MXenes (SASs‐MXenes) have attracted widespread attention for energy storage and conversion due to their highest atom utilization efficiency, intriguing intrinsic properties, unusual performance, and improved robustness. In addition, the large surface area and abundant anchor sites make MXenes ideal substrates for supporting single atoms via covalent interaction. Herein, the main strategies for synthesis of SASs‐MXenes are first summarized, which cover capturing single atoms by cation vacancies, coordinating single atoms with heterodopants, and inheriting single atoms from MAX phases. Then, disclosing the crucial roles SASs‐MXenes play in tuning the kinetics and thermodynamics of various catalytic reactions, i.e., hydrogen evolution reaction, nitrogen reduction reaction, CO2 reduction reaction, CO2 functionalization, polysulfide conversion, and other redox reactions involved in rechargeable batteries, is focused on. Finally, the challenges and future opportunities for developing highly active SASs‐MXenes are discussed.
LncRNA NCK1‐AS1 exerts oncogenic property in gastric cancer by targeting the miR‐22‐3p/BCL9 axis to activate the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling
Authors: Guan Bugao , Ma Jun , Yang Zhi , Yu Fei , Yao Jian
Published: May 2021

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) exert crucial effects on the development of many malignancies, including gastric cancer. Herein, we investigated the role of lncRNA noncatalytic region of tyrosine kinase adaptor protein 1 (NCK1) divergent transcript (NCK1‐DT, also known as NCK1‐AS1) in gastric cancer. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that NCK1‐AS1 exhibited high expression in gastric cancer tissues and cells. In vitro assays including MTT, colony formation, Transwell, wound healing and sphere formation assays indicated that NCK1‐AS1 depletion inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion and stemness maintenance. Luciferase reporter and RIP assays suggested that NCK1‐AS1 functioned as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR‐22‐3p to positively modulate BCL9 expression. BCL9 was a target gene of miR‐22‐3p. According to western blot analysis and TOP/FOP flash assay, NCK1‐AS1 activated the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling via the miR‐22‐3p/BCL9 axis. Furthermore, rescue experiments verified that NCK1‐AS1 affected cellular processes by activating the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway via the miR‐22‐3p/BCL9 axis. Tumor xenograft model validated that NCK1‐AS1 promoted tumor growth in vivo via the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling by upregulating BCL9 expression. Overall, NCK1‐AS1 functions as an oncogene and promotes gastric cancer progression via the miR‐22‐3p/BCL9‐Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway.
International consensus on methodological issues in standardization of fecal calprotectin measurement in inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: D'Amico Ferdinando , Rubin David T. , Kotze Paulo Gustavo , Magro Fernando , Siegmund Britta , Kobayashi Taku , Olivera Pablo A. , Bossuyt Peter , Pouillon Lieven , Louis Edouard , Domènech Eugeni , Ghosh Subrata , Danese Silvio , Peyrin‐Biroulet Laurent
Published: May 2021

Background

Fecal calprotectin (FC) is a non‐invasive marker of gut inflammation which is frequently used to guide therapeutic decisions in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Each step of FC measurement can influence the results, leading to misinterpretations and potentially impacting the management of IBD patients. To date, there is high heterogeneity between FC measurements and no current method is universally accepted as a standard.

Aims

Our aim was to provide clear position statementsabout the pre‐analytical and the analytical phases of FC measurement to homogenize FC levels and to minimize variability and risk of misinterpretation through aninternational consensus.

Materials & Methods

Fourteen physicians with expertise in the field of IBD and FC from 11 countries attended a virtual international consensus meeting on July 17th, 2020. A systematic literature was conducted and the literature evidence was shared and discussedamong the participants. Statements were formulated, discussed, and voted. Statements were considered approved if all participants agreed.

Results

Nine statements were formulated and approved. Based on the available evidence, quantitative tests should be preferred for measuring FC. Furthermore, FC measurement, if possible, should always be performed with the same method and factors influencing FC levels should be taken into account when interpreting the results.

Discussion

FC has an increasingly important role in the management of patients with IBD. However, large multicenter studies should be conducted to define the reproducibility and to confirm the diagnostic accuracy of the available FC tests.

Conclusion

FC concentrations guide clinicians' treatment decisions. Our statements have a relevant impact in daily practice and could be applied in clinical trials to standardize FC measurement.
Endoscopic management of duodenal adenomatosis in familial adenomatous polyposis—A case‐based review
Authors: Soons E. , Bisseling T. M. , van Kouwen M. C. A. , Möslein G. , Siersema P. D.
Published: May 2021

Adenomatous polyposis (AP) diseases, including familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), attenuated FAP (AFAP), and MUTYH‐associated polyposis (MAP), are the second most common hereditary causes of colorectal cancer. A frequent extra‐colonic manifestation of AP disease is duodenal polyposis, which may lead to duodenal cancer in up to 18% of AP patients. Endoscopic surveillance is recommended at 0.5‐ to 5‐year intervals depending on the extent of polyp growth and histological progression. Although the Spigelman classification is traditionally used to determine surveillance intervals, it lacks information on the (peri‐)ampullary site, where 50% of duodenal carcinomas are located. Hence, information on the papilla has recently been added as a prognostic marker. Patients with duodenal adenoma(s) ≥10 mm and ampullary adenomas of any size are suggested to be referred to an expert center for endoscopic therapy, particularly endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic ampullectomy. Nonetheless, despite the logic of this approach, the long‐term efficacy of endoscopic therapy is still to be demonstrated.
Pyrrole‐based pincer ligands containing iminophosphorane moieties and their coordination chemistry with group 1 metals and magnesium
Authors: Ehrlich Nico , Freytag Matthias , Raeder Jan , Jones Peter G. , Walter Marc D.
Published: May 2021

The Staudinger reaction of 2,5‐bis((di‐tert‐butylphosphaneyl)methyl)‐1H‐pyrrole (tBuPNP)H; tBuPNP=C4H2N‐2,5‐CH2PtBu2) with 2 equiv. of Me3SiN3 cleanly furnishes 1,1′‐((1H‐pyrrole‐2,5‐diyl)bis(methylene))bis(1,1‐di‐tert‐butyl‐N‐(trimethylsilyl)‐λ5‐phosphanimine) (1; (NPNPN)H, NPNPN=C4H2N‐2,5‐CH2PtBu2NSiMe3) in excellent yield. Pyrrole 1 is easily deprotonated by alkali metal amides, [MN(SiMe3)2] (M=Li, Na, K, Cs) to yield the corresponding alkali metal pyrrolides, 1‐M. Compound 1‐Li is features a κ‐N,N,N coordination whereby both iminophosphorane side‐arms are coordinated to the lithium cation (with additional short Li⋅⋅⋅H contacts, whereas the heavier congeners form dimeric structures. This results in κ‐N,N coordination within one [(NPNPN)M] (M=Na, Cs) unit, and the dimeric structure is then completed by additional η5‐coordination of the pyrrolyl ligand to the neighbouring alkali metal. Furthermore, heteroleptic magnesium alkyl complexes, 1‐MgR, are isolated from the reaction of [MgR2] (R= CH2SiMe3, CH2CMe3, CH2CMe2Ph) with (PNP*)H (1 equiv).
Indentation method accounting for thickness effect of viscoelastic layer
Authors: Miura Kotaro , Oyama Chihiro , Sakamoto Makoto , Tanabe Yuji
Published: May 2021

Indentation tests have been widely used to evaluate the mechanical properties of industrial and biological materials in many studies. In this study, we obtained an analytical solution for the axisymmetric contact problem for a viscoelastic layer bonded to a rigid substrate and indented by a flat‐ended cylindrical punch using the elastic–viscoelastic correspondence principle. The analytical solution was obtained from a method using an infinite system of simultaneous equations instead of a conventional method using the second kind of Fredholm equation. Relaxation indentation tests were conducted for silicon rubber, polyurethane gel (a soft material used for elastography), and articular cartilage from a bovine femoral head. The articular cartilage was tested as obtained and then tested again after treatment by collagenase. The viscoelastic models in this study were a three‐element model (standard linear solid model) and a five‐element model (generalized Maxwell model), and the viscoelastic parameters for the models were determined by fitting the analytical solution to results for applied load as it varied over time during relaxation indentation tests. The results suggested that the five‐element model was more appropriate than the three‐element model for reproducing the relaxation indentation behavior of silicon rubber, polyurethane gel, and articular cartilage. Furthermore, the viscoelastic parameters for treated articular cartilage clearly decreased compared with those for unaltered articular cartilage. These results suggest that the method for evaluating the time‐dependent mechanical properties of articular cartilage based on analytical solutions of relaxation indentation tests could be a useful tool for evaluating the state of degenerated cartilage.
New analytical method for dynamic response of thermoelastic damping in simply supported generalized piezothermoelastic nanobeam
Authors: Kaur Iqbal , Singh Kulvinder , Ghita Gilbert Marius Daniel
Published: May 2021

The present paper deals with the application of one‐dimensional piezoelectric materials in particular piezo‐thermo‐elastic nanobeam in the context of generalized piezothermoelastic theory. The ends of the nanobeam are considered to be simply supported and at a constant temperature. The mathematical model so formed is solved to obtain the non‐dimensional expressions for lateral deflection, electric potential, thermal moment, thermoelastic damping, and frequency shift. Effect of frequency on the lateral deflection, electric potential, thermal moment with generalized piezothermoelastic theory are represented graphically using the MATLAB software. Comparisons are made with different theories of thermoelasticity.