bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a general‐purpose parallel finite element method for analyzing earthquake engineering problems
Authors: Motoyama H. , Sawada M. , Hotta W. , Haba K. , Otsuka Y. , Akiba H. , Hori M.
Published: October 2021

A parallel finite element method (FEM) based on high‐fidelity models for solving diverse earthquake engineering problems is presented. Its key feature is a parallel solver that is tuned to solve large‐scale wave equations. Tensorial material constitutive relations of concrete and soil and sophisticated nonlinear joint elements are implemented to broaden the applicability of the parallel FEM. The performance of the proposed parallel FEM is demonstrated for three examples; namely, seismic response, liquefaction, and surface earthquake fault analyses. A high‐fidelity model was constructed for each analysis, and the numerical results were validated against observed data. The performance of the proposed parallel FEM approach was evaluated in terms of the resolution of the simulated results. Ensemble computing based on approximately a hundred high‐fidelity models is useful for cases where there are considerable uncertainties regarding the material properties.
Seismic performance of bridges with novel SMA cable‐restrained high damping rubber bearings against near‐fault ground motions
Authors: Fang Cheng , Liang Dong , Zheng Yue , Lu Shiyuan
Published: October 2021

This study presents a novel type of shape memory alloy (SMA) cable‐restrained high damping rubber (SMA‐HDR) bearing, which is particularly suited to near‐fault (NF) regions where the pulsing effect potentially exists in the ground motions. The working mechanism of the bearing is first described, followed by an experimental investigation on a full‐scale SMA‐HDR bearing specimen. The test results confirm the efficient restraining effect offered by the SMA cables, which contribute to 65% and 24.4% of the lateral load resistance and total energy dissipation, respectively, prior to the initial fracture of the SMA cables. The failure of the cables is initiated near the end grip where moderate stress concentration exists at this region. Following the experimental study, the numerical modeling strategy for the bearing is discussed, and a case study is then presented, demonstrating the application of the SMA‐HDR bearings in the Datianba #2 highway bridge, a real project that first adopts the proposed bearings in the world. A simplified design process is introduced for the bridge with novel SMA‐HDR bearings to mitigate the potential damage during strong earthquakes especially the NF ones. The system‐level analysis on the prototype bridge shows that the novel SMA‐HDR bearings equipped with ten 7×7×1.2 SMA cables in each bearing could reduce the average maximum bearing displacement (MBD) by nearly 30% compared with the conventional bridge with HDR bearings. The application of the novel SMA‐HDR bearing can significantly alleviate the pounding effect, especially under the NF earthquakes. The presence of the SMA cables tends to increase the maximum force response of the piers, but this effect is minor and under control.
Symmetric Least Squares Estimates of Functional Relationships
Authors: Kane Michael T.
Published: October 2021

Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression provides optimal linear predictions of a dependent variable, y, given an independent variable, x, but OLS regressions are not symmetric or reversible. In order to get optimal linear predictions of x given y, a separate OLS regression in that direction would be needed. This report provides a least squares derivation of the geometric mean (GM) regression line, which is symmetric and reversible, as the line that minimizes a weighted sum of the mean squared errors for y, given x, and for x, given y. It is shown that the GM regression line is symmetric and predicts equally well (or poorly, depending on the absolute value of rxy) in both directions. The errors of prediction for the GM line are, naturally, larger for the predictions of both x and y than those for the two OLS equations, each of which is specifically optimized for prediction in one direction, but for high values of , the difference is not large. The GM line has previously been derived as a special case of principal‐components analysis and gets its name from the fact that its slope is equal to the geometric mean of the slopes of the OLS regressions of y on x and x on y.
Drivers of insect consumption across human populations
Authors: Cruz y Celis Peniche Patricio
Published: October 2021

Discussions regarding entomophagy in humans have been typically led by entomologists. While anthropologists devote much time to understanding diverse human subsistence practices, historical and cultural variation in insect consumption remains largely unexplained. This review explores the relation between variable ecologies, subsistence strategies, and social norms on insect consumption patterns across past and contemporary human populations. Ecological factors, such as the nutritional contribution of edible insects relative to those of other foraged or farmed resources available, may help explain variation in their consumption. Additionally, our evolved social learning strategies may help propagate social norms that prohibit or prioritize the consumption of some or all edible insects, independent of their profitability. By adopting a behavioral ecological and cultural evolutionary approach, this review aims to resolve current debates on insect consumption and provide directions for future research.
Experimental evolution reveals sex-specific dominance for surviving bacterial infection in laboratory populations ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Geeta Arun Manas , Agarwala Amisha , Syed Zeeshan Ali , . Jigisha , Kashyap Mayank , Venkatesan Saudamini , Chechi Tejinder Singh , Gupta Vanika , Prasad Nagaraj Guru
Published: October 2021

Males and females are subjected to distinct kinds of selection pressures, often leading to the evolution of sex-specific genetic architecture, an example being sex-specific dominance. Sex-specific dominance reversals (SSDRs), where alleles at sexually antagonistic loci are at least partially dominant in the sex they benefit, have been documented in Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, and seed beetles. Another interesting feature of many sexually reproducing organisms is the asymmetric inheritance pattern of X chromosomes, which often leads to distinct evolutionary outcomes on X chromosomes compared to autosomes. Examples include the higher efficacy of sexually concordant selection on X chromosomes, and X chromosomes being more conducive to the maintenance of sexually antagonistic polymorphisms under certain conditions. Immunocompetence is a trait that has been extensively investigated for sexual dimorphism with growing evidence for sex-specific or sexually antagonistic variation. X chromosomes have been shown to harbor substantial immunity-related genetic variation in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. Here, using interpopulation crosses and cytogenetic cloning, we investigated sex-specific dominance and the role of the X chromosome in improved postinfection survivorship of laboratory populations of D. melanogaster selected against pathogenic challenge by Pseudomonas entomophila. We could not detect any contribution of the X chromosome to the evolved immunocompetence of our selected populations, as well as to within-population variation in immunocompetence. However, we found strong evidence of sex-specific dominance related to surviving bacterial infection. Our results indicate that alleles that confer a survival advantage to the selected populations are, on average, partially dominant in females but partially recessive in males. This could also imply an SSDR for overall fitness, given the putative evidence for sexually antagonistic selection affecting immunocompetence in Drosophila melanogaster. We also highlight sex-specific dominance as a potential mechanism of sex differences in immunocompetence, with population-level sex differences primarily driven by sex differences in heterozygotes.
Fire injury analysis
Authors: Taylor Mark , Appleton Deb , Fielding John , Oakford Gary
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we examine unintentional dwelling fire injuries during the period 2006 to 2016 in Merseyside, in the North West of England. Overall, it appeared that deprivation was a significant factor in unintentional fire injuries over the period studied, with 52% of fire injuries occurring in areas with the highest level of deprivation. Males and females appeared equally likely to be injured in an unintentional dwelling fire, however, males were twice as likely to be injured in an alcohol and drug‐related fire incident, or injured attempting to fight a dwelling fire than females. In terms of the age profile of those injured in unintentional dwelling fires, the group with the highest level of fire injuries was the elderly (29% of injuries), followed by those aged 25 to 45 (28% of injuries), then those aged 45 to 65 (23% of injuries), then young persons (aged up to 24) (20% of injuries).
Beyond poto mitan: Challenging the “Strong Black Woman” archetype and allowing space for tenderness
Authors: Dubuisson Darlène , Schuller Mark
Published: October 2021

In this article, we contend that the “strong Black woman” archetype constricts expressions of Black womanhood and girlhood and thus limits individual and collective liberation. We maintain that strength need not preclude tenderness, highlighting two forms: wounded tenderness—a raw and aching feeling pointing to the vulnerability of human beings—and liberated tenderness, a practice of meeting woundedness with embodied awareness and gentleness. We foreground the concept of poto mitan to illustrate how the “strong Black woman” archetype upholds virtues of strength at the expense of tenderness, thus taking up Faye Harrison's call to theorize from “ex‐centric sites.” Translated as “center posts,” poto mitan describes the architecture of spaces for traditional ancestor worship and conventionally refers to Haitian women's central role as pillars of the family and community. We begin this article by discussing the limits of this discourse within feminist scholarship and activism. Second, we examine how this discourse both engenders and limits liberation for Haitian rural women. By concluding with “tenderness as method,” we argue that feminist anthropologists working with Black women must not only attune themselves to how discourses and performances of strength may occlude liberation but also call on our own vulnerability to allow space for liberated tenderness.
Influence of age on molecular characteristics and rheological behavior of nopal mucilage
Authors: Rodríguez‐González Francisco , Pérez‐González José , Muñoz‐López Cesar Nadem , Vargas‐Solano Silvia Viridiana , Marín‐Santibáñez Benjamín M.
Published: October 2021

Nopal mucilages are of interest due to a variety of potential applications, which include their use as thickeners and rheological modifiers. In this work, changes in molecular characteristics of nopal mucilages with their age and its influence on the rheological behavior of their solutions were analyzed by light scattering, high performance liquid chromatography, a colorimetric method, and linear viscoelastic rheometrical measurements. For this, mucilages obtained from cladodes from Opuntia ficus‐indica with different ages, namely 20, 80, and 600 days, respectively, were extracted using water as solvent and then subjected to freeze‐drying. The weight‐average molecular weight (Mw) of the mucilages was found to increase along with the age; meanwhile, the concentration of uronic acids increased and the galactose, rhamnose, and xylose contents decreased. Increasing Mw with age resulted in enhanced viscoelastic behavior of solutions, namely, higher viscosity and elasticity at lower mucilage concentrations. Also, along with increasing Mw, decrease in neutral sugar contents and increase of pectic compounds (uronic acids) and Ca+ cations in mucilages with age promoted formation of weak gels. Overall, the molecular weights and rheological behaviors reported in this work for nopal mucilages are comparable to those of widely used thickeners such as xanthan and guar gums, which suggest their use in similar applications regarding its age.
Microglia‐specific ApoE knock‐out does not alter Alzheimer's disease plaque pathogenesis or gene expression
Authors: Henningfield Caden M. , Arreola Miguel A. , Soni Neelakshi , Spangenberg Elizabeth E. , Green Kim N.
Published: October 2021

Previous studies suggest that microglial‐expressed Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is necessary to shift microglia into a neurodegenerative transcriptional state in Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse models. On the other hand, elimination of microglia shifts amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation from parenchymal plaques to cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), mimicking the effects of global APOE*4 knock‐in. Here, we specifically knock‐out microglial‐expressed ApoE while keeping astrocytic‐expressed ApoE intact. When microglial‐specific ApoE is knocked‐out of a 5xFAD mouse model of AD, we found a ~35% increase in average Aβ plaque size, but no changes in plaque load, microglial number, microglial clustering around Aβ plaques, nor the formation of CAA. Immunostaining revealed ApoE protein present in plaque‐associated microglia in 5xFAD mice with microglial‐specific ApoE knockout, suggesting that microglia can take up ApoE from other cellular sources. Mice with Apoe knocked‐out of microglia had lower synaptic protein levels than control mice, indicating that microglial‐expressed ApoE may have a role in synapse maintenance. Surprisingly, microglial‐specific ApoE knock‐out resulted in few differentially expressed genes in both 5xFAD and control mice; however, some rescue of 5xFAD associated neuronal networks may occur with microglial‐specific ApoE knock‐out as shown by weighted gene co‐expression analysis. Altogether, our data indicates that microglial‐expressed ApoE may not be necessary for plaque formation or for the microglial transcriptional shift into a Disease Associated Microglia state that is associated with reactivity to plaques but may be necessary for plaque homeostasis in disease and synaptic maintenance under normal conditions.
Genome‐wide analysis identifies gallstone‐susceptibility loci including genes regulating gastrointestinal motility
Authors: Fairfield Cameron J. , Drake Thomas M. , Pius Riinu , Bretherick Andrew D. , Campbell Archie , Clark David W. , Fallowfield Jonathan A. , Hayward Caroline , Henderson Neil C. , Iakovliev Andrii , Joshi Peter K. , Mills Nicholas L. , Porteous David J. , Ramachandran Prakash , Semple Robert K. , Shaw Catherine A. , Sudlow Cathie L. W. , Timmers Paul R. H. J. , Wilson James F. , Wigmore Stephen J. , Spiliopoulou Athina , Harrison Ewen M.
Published: October 2021

Background and Aims

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified several risk loci for gallstone disease. As with most polygenic traits, it is likely that many genetic determinants are undiscovered. The aim of this study was to identify genetic variants that represent new targets for gallstone research and treatment.

Approach and Results

We performed a GWAS of 28,627 gallstone cases and 348,373 controls in the UK Biobank, replicated findings in a Scottish cohort (1089 cases, 5228 controls), and conducted a GWA meta‐analysis (43,639 cases, 506,798 controls) with the FinnGen cohort. We assessed pathway enrichment using gene‐based then gene‐set analysis and tissue expression of identified genes in Genotype‐Tissue Expression project data. We constructed a polygenic risk score (PRS) and evaluated phenotypic traits associated with the score. Seventy‐five risk loci were identified (p < 5 × 10−8), of which 46 were new. Pathway enrichment revealed associations with lipid homeostasis, glucuronidation, phospholipid metabolism, and gastrointestinal motility. Anoctamin 1 (ANO1) and transmembrane Protein 147 (TMEM147), both in novel, replicated loci, are expressed in the gallbladder and gastrointestinal tract. Both regulate gastrointestinal motility. The gallstone risk allele rs7599‐A leads to suppression of hepatic TMEM147 expression, suggesting that the protein protects against gallstone formation. The highest decile of the PRS demonstrated a 6‐fold increased odds of gallstones compared with the lowest decile. The PRS was strongly associated with increased body mass index, serum liver enzymes, and C‐reactive protein concentrations, and decreased lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations.

Conclusions

This GWAS demonstrates the polygenic nature of gallstone risk and identifies 46 novel susceptibility loci. We implicate genes influencing gastrointestinal motility in the pathogenesis of gallstones.
Circulating heat shock protein 27 (HSPB1) levels in prediction of pre‐eclampsia: A pilot study
Authors: Martin Raquel L. , Sottile Mayra L. , Redondo Analia L. , Gomez Laura C. , Gauna Gisel V. , Flamini Marina I. , Grajeda Carina , Anzalone Alfonsa C. , Rodriguez‐Echandia Eduardo , Nadin Silvina B. , Vargas‐Roig Laura M.
Published: October 2021

Objective

To determine whether circulating heat shock proteins HSP27/HSPB1 and HSP90α/HSPC1 may be useful for early prediction of the occurrence of pre‐eclampsia in asymptomatic women.

Methods

We have measured by ELISA the levels of HSPB1, HSPC1, and placental protein 13 (PP13) in serum samples from 44 women in the first trimester (10–12 weeks) and second trimester (17–20 weeks) of pregnancy. Western blot and immunohistochemistry for HSPB1 and HSPC1 were performed.

Results

HSPB1 serum levels were higher in women with pre‐eclampsia than in normotensive pregnant women at the first and second trimester (P = 0.003), whereas PP13 levels decreased in women with pre‐eclampsia only in the first trimester of gestation (P = 0.021). We also observed higher HSPB1 levels in patients with early‐onset pre‐eclampsia in the first and second trimester (P = 0.014).

Conclusion

This pilot study points out that circulating HSPB1 levels in first and second trimester might be useful for predicting the occurrence of pre‐eclampsia in asymptomatic women. Further validation studies are needed to finally establish this protein as a candidate predictive biomarker of pre‐eclampsia.
The knowledge levels, perceptions, and practices of irrigation farmers in the context of soil salinity management in the South African sugarcane industry*
Authors: Jumman Ashiel , van Heerden Pieter S , van Antwerpen Rianto , van Rensburg Leon D , Adendorff Marius , Radzilani Tshifhiwa , Searle Alex
Published: October 2021

Soil salinity is a well‐researched issue. However, farmers' knowledge and perceptions of salinity management are less known. A questionnaire survey was conducted with 34 sugarcane growers, farming 18,174 ha under irrigation in South Africa. The questionnaire evaluated current knowledge levels, management practices, and perceptions about salinity management.

The results reveal several knowledge gaps. Many farmers were not monitoring their soil salinity status or the water quality used for irrigation. A large portion (71%) of farmers observed visible signs of salinity; however, very few were implementing flushing of salts with irrigation. Contrastingly, participants suggested that they perceived the threat of salinity and have sufficient knowledge about causes and the preventative and corrective measures for salinity management. In addition, respondents were satisfied that the benefits of salinity management outweigh the costs. Participants, however, perceived practical difficulty and hassle factors relating to the knowledge and skill required for implementation. In conclusion, extension activities need to extend beyond knowledge sharing to the level of implementation. On‐farm testing, demonstration plots, farm visits, and technical tours are recommended. Relevant economic and practical case study information must be gathered and shared with larger farmer groups.
Resilience in deaf children: A comprehensive literature review and applications for school staff
Authors: Freitas Eunice , Simões Celeste , Santos Anabela C. , Mineiro Ana
Published: October 2021

Resilience is a dynamic, multidimensional complex concept that implies risk and protective factors, adaptation, and success. Communication and language are often identified as barriers in deaf children's development. However, research linking deafness in childhood and resilience is scarce. The present comprehensive literature review aims to verify which are the predominant risk factors for this group, which protective factors may be identified and if significant differences have been found between deaf and hearing children regarding resilience. A systematic search, performed in seven databases, identified 11 articles published in peer‐reviewed journals between 2000 and 2019 that met the criteria. Deaf children experience exposure to risk through obstacles in communication, language, and information failure. Consequently, differences between hearing and deaf children are related to more difficulties in emotion regulation and interpersonal relationships. Principal protective factors are a supportive family, school staff, and peers. Practical implications and recommendations for future research are provided.
Hyperthermia alters interleukin‐6 production in response to lipopolysaccharide via endoplasmic reticulum stress in bovine endometrial cells
Authors: Sakai Shunsuke , Inoue Yuki , Tanaka Keisuke , Yamamoto Yuki , Iwata Hisataka , Kimura Koji
Published: October 2021

In the postpartum period, cows experience the uterine bacterial infection and develop the endometritis. To eliminate bacteria and recover from endometritis, endometrial epithelial and stromal cells secrete the cytokine and chemokine, such as interleukin 6 (IL‐6), IL‐8, and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1), to recruit immune cells. Moreover, the symptom of endometritis is prolonged in summer and we have recently indicated that hyperthermia suppresses and enhances the IL‐6 production in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge in endometrial epithelial and stromal cells, respectively. However, the mechanisms for the opposite reaction of IL‐6 secretion in response to LPS challenge in both types of endometrial cells under hyperthermia conditions were still unclear. To reveal these mechanisms, both types of endometrial cells were cultured with LPS under the control (38.5°C) or hyperthermia (40.5°C) conditions and comprehensively analyzed differential gene expressions of them by RNA‐seq. In addition, based on these results, we examined the effect of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress on the IL‐6 production in both types of endometrial cells cultured with LPS under hyperthermia conditions. In comprehensive analysis, hyperthermia induced the ER stress in the endometrial stromal cells but not in the endometrial epithelial cells. Actually, we confirmed that hyperthermia increased the gene expression of BiP, ATF4, and sXBP1 and protein expression of BiP and phosphorylated inositol requiring 1, ER stress marker, in the endometrial stromal cells but not in the endometrial epithelial cells. Moreover, in the endometrial stromal cells exposed to LPS, activation and inhibition of ER stress enhanced the IL‐6 production under control conditions and suppressed it under hyperthermia conditions, respectively. In this study, we could uncover the one of causes for the disruption of IL‐6 production in response to LPS challenge in the endometrial cells under hyperthermia conditions. This finding might be a clue for the improvement of the symptom of endometritis in cows during summer.
Prognostic value of B lines detected with lung ultrasound in acute heart failure. A systematic review
Authors: Dubón‐Peralta Ester Emilia , Lorenzo‐Villalba Noel , García‐Klepzig José Luis , Andrès Emmanuel , Méndez‐Bailon Manuel
Published: October 2021

Pulmonary ultrasound is a simple diagnostic tool with immediate results for the assessment of pulmonary congestion in patients with heart failure (HF), allowing optimization of treatment by monitoring the dynamic changes identified. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of the presence of B lines detected by lung ultrasound during hospitalization for heart failure. A search was conducted for scientific articles in PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases including clinical trials, reviews, systematic reviews, and original articles that were related to the prognostic value of lung ultrasound in patients with HF in the last 5 years from 2016 to 2021. Studies including individuals aged ≥18 years evaluating the prognostic value of lung ultrasound in HF were included. Fourteen articles met inclusion criteria for analysis (three reviews, three systematic reviews with meta‐analysis, six prospective studies, and two retrospective studies). The presence of more than 30–40 B lines at admission were considered a risk factor for readmission or mortality as was persistent pulmonary congestion with the presence of ≥15 B‐lines. The presence of pulmonary congestion detected by lung ultrasound in acute heart failure has prognostic significance in terms of mortality and hospital readmission. Clinical trials are needed to evaluate whether diuretic therapy guided by lung ultrasound and the presence of B lines can reduce readmission and mortality in these patients.
Artemisinins induce endoplasmic reticulum stress in acute leukaemia cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Mancuso Rubia Isler , Azambuja Juliana Hofstätter , Niemann Fernanda Soares , Congrains Ada , Foglio Mary Ann , Rego Eduardo Magalhães , Olalla Saad Sara Teresinha
Published: October 2021

Loss of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis leads to ER stress, thus prolonged activation can lead to apoptosis. Herein, artesunate (ART) induced ER stress in leukaemia cells, resulting in eIF2α phosphorylation, activation of transcription factor 4, subsequent CHOP upregulation and XBP1 splicing. Furthermore, in vitro cyclin/CDKs reduction induced G1‐phase arrest. An in vivo xenograft model showed a consistent pattern of ART in reducing tumour burden, supporting roles in the UPR pathway, which we speculate could lead to apoptosis by NOXA activation. Moreover, ART were capable of increasing the survival of mice. Taken together, our data indicate that ART may represent an interesting weapon to fight leukaemia.
Adoptive transfer of GRP78-treated dendritic cells alleviates insulitis in NOD mice
Authors: Zhou Xiaoqi , Yang Muyang , Lv Yibing , Li Heli , Wu Sha , Min Jie , Shen Guanxin , He Yong , Lei Ping
Published: October 2021

The 78-kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78) has extracellular, anti-inflammatory properties that can aid resolving inflammation. It has been established previously that GRP78 induced myeloid CD11c+ cell differentiation into distinct tolerogenic cells. This tolerance induction makes GRP78 a potential therapeutic agent for transplanted allogeneic grafts and autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes. In this research, it is revealed that rmGRP78-treated NOD mice bone marrow-derived CD11c+ cells (GRP78-DCs) highly expressed B7-H4 but down-regulated CD86 and CD40, and retained a tolerogenic signature even after stimulation by LPS. In the assessment of in vivo therapeutic efficacy after the adoptive transfer of GRP78-DCs into NOD mice, fluorescent imaging analyses revealed that the transfer specifically homed in inflamed pancreases, promoting β-cell survival and alleviating insulitis in NOD mice. The adoptive transfer of GRP78-DCs also helped reduce Th1, Th17, and CTL, suppressing inflammatory cytokine production in vivo. The findings suggest that adoptive GRP78-DC transfer is critical to resolving inflammation in NOD mice and may have relevance in a clinical setting.
The climatology of extreme wildfires in Portugal, 1980–2018: Contributions to forecasting and preparedness
Authors: Carmo Miguel , Ferreira João , Mendes Manuel , Silva Álvaro , Silva Pedro , Alves Daniela , Reis Luís , Novo Ilda , Xavier Viegas Domingos
Published: October 2021

Available research has extensively examined the spatiotemporal patterns of fire‐weather regime in Portugal, but a comprehensive climatology of extreme wildfires is still under development. This study calls for different strategies and scales of analysis aiming to describe the relationships between medium and low troposphere weather conditions and severe fire behaviour in mainland Portugal, between 1980 and 2018. In particular, critical fire‐weather patterns and thresholds that can contribute to operational and forecasting know‐how in short and medium time ranges are presented. We updated the general trends in the fire regime with a new, longer daily burned area series and developed a method that identifies Extreme Wildfire Periods (EWP) that form the basis for climate analysis. Synoptic analysis using Circulation Weather Types (CWT) showed that the northeasterly and easterly directional flows are significantly associated with EWP and produce the most severe fire‐weather conditions. The four main CWT related to extreme fire are driven from anticyclones over the eastern Atlantic between the Azores and the British Isles. However, severe situations can also be regulated by CWT with marginal presence in both summer and EWP: low systems located to the west and northwest of Iberia carrying air masses from the south quadrant are related to catastrophic events. Regarding the antecedent climate, the results indicate that the coincident meteorological drought, whether weak or intense, is a necessary but not sufficient condition for the development of an EWP. An increasing relevance of water stress for shorter intervals preceding EWP, in the order of days and weeks, is apparent. Following these results, fine dead fuel moisture thresholds related to transitions in fire behaviour in Portuguese landscapes are computed using a promising predictive moisture content model. Finally, the different methods used are summoned for the detailed analysis of an EWP starting under unusual synoptic circulation.
Efficacy of four nitrification inhibitors for the mitigation of nitrous oxide emissions under different soil temperature and moisture#
Authors: Guo Yafei , Naeem Asif , Becker‐Fazekas Stefan , Pitann Britta , Mühling Karl H.
Published: October 2021

Background

Nitrification inhibitors (NI) may be used to inhibit nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from agricultural soils, but their efficacy could be strongly affected by soil temperature and moisture.

Aims

This study investigated how different NI behave in a sandy soil under variable temperature and moisture levels, which currently remains unclear.

Methods

Efficacies of four NI [dicyandiamide (DCD), 3,4‐dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP), nitrogenous mineral fertilizers containing the DMPP ammonium stabilizer (ENTEC) and active ingredients: 3.00–3.25% 1,2,4‐triazole and 1.50–1.65% 3‐methylpyrazole (PIADIN)] were investigated in an incubation experiment under two soil temperatures (15 and 25°C) and two moisture levels [60% and 80% water‐holding capacity (WH)] for 60 days in a sandy soil. The soil received 0.5 g NH4+‐N kg−1 soil and the inhibitors were applied at 5% of applied N. Total N2O emissions were calculated based on gas samples collected throughout the incubation period.

Results

Increasing soil temperature from 15 to 25°C decreased N2O emissions by 73–191% while increasing soil moisture from 60% to 80% WHC caused a 109–251% increase in the emissions. ENTEC followed by DCD were the least effective inhibitors to reduce N2O emissions under all temperature and moisture combinations. Depending upon temperature and soil moisture, DMPP and PIADIN inhibited 85–100% of N2O emissions. At 15°C, both DMPP and PIADIN almost completely inhibited N2O emissions. At 25°C, the efficacy of PIADIN decreased to 88%, while that of DMPP ranged from 86% to 98%. Increased soil moisture content improved the efficacy of all the NI.

Conclusions

Overall, DMPP and PIADIN were more effective than DCD in a sandy soil under both the soil moisture levels and temperatures. DMPP was the most effective inhibitor, completely inhibiting N2O emissions at 15–25°C and up to 80% WHC in this soil, and is therefore recommended for use in agricultural lands. The concentration of the NI contained in ENTEC was insufficient to affect nitrification at the both soil moisture levels and temperatures.
A systematic review of socioecological factors, community violence exposure, and disparities for Latinx youth
Authors: Santacrose Diana E. , Kia‐Keating Maryam , Lucio Daniella
Published: October 2021

Community violence exposure poses a public health risk exacerbated by immigration‐related stressors and environmental factors, including systemic racism and interpersonal discrimination, socioeconomic disparities, and anti‐immigrant laws and policies, that disproportionately impact Latinx‐immigrant and systematically minoritized youth. Using the ecological–transactional model of community violence as a conceptual framework, this systematic review was conducted to examine research on exposure to community violence, risk and protective factors, and associated health and mental health sequelae among Latinx youth. The initial search generated 2,152 articles, 291 of which were reviewed for detailed evaluation; ultimately, 59 articles were included. Mexican‐origin youth and adolescent samples were the most represented in research studies. Across several studies, Latinx youth reported high rates of violence exposure and poor health or mental health outcomes. The findings revealed important gaps in socioecological factors, with a dearth of evidence establishing macrosystem factors or culturally salient and immigrant‐related factors. Notable risk and protective factors at various ecological levels were identified and discussed as key opportunities for future research and points of intervention or prevention efforts for Latinx‐immigrant and systematically minoritized youth.
The end of the trial: Perspectives on cognitive processing therapy from community‐based providers in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Lakin Daniel P. , Murray Sarah M. , Lasater Molly E. , Kaysen Debra , Mataboro Amani , Annan Jeannie , Bolton Paul , Bass Judith K.
Published: October 2021

Despite calls forincreased mental health programming in low‐resource and humanitarian contexts and effectiveness trials of psychotherapy in these settings, little research exists on the extent to which providers and recipients continue to practice skills learned during trials of these programs. To understand if and how providers continued to use mental health intervention skills without ongoing institutional support following the completion of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), we analyzed data from semistructured interviews with six of seven providers who participated in an RCT of cognitive processing therapy (CPT) in the Democratic Republic of Congo 7 years prior. Provider interviews revealed continued knowledge of and, in some cases, the practice of core CPT skills as well as efforts to keep meeting with women in the community and a strong desire to learn new skills. Although financial limitations sometimes prohibited providers from formally convening CPT groups with women in need, participants maintained knowledge and skill use. Providers also reported feeling more valued in their communities, and they continued providing services beyond the planned intervention period despite a lack of ongoing support. In addition, participants described a strong desire to continue psychosocial interventions for trauma and learn more about this type of intervention. Reframing the evaluation of psychological interventions as program development and maintaining a strong working relationship with community partners may allow for increased sustainability of mental health services beyond the end of academic research studies in low‐resource contexts.
Intergenerational maltreatment in parent–child dyads from Burundi, Africa: Associations among parental depression and connectedness, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and aggression in children
Authors: Charak Ruby , De Jong J.T.V.M. , Berckmoes Lidewyde H. , Ndayisaba Herman , Reis Ria
Published: October 2021

Studies investigating the associations between histories of childhood maltreatment (CM) in parent–child dyads have primarily involved samples from high‐income countries; however, CM rates are higher in low‐ and middle‐income countries. The present study aimed to examine the (a) association between maltreatment in parents and maltreatment of their children through risk (i.e., parent depression) and protective (i.e., parent–child connectedness) factors and (b) associations between CM in children with aggression through posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and peer/sibling victimization. Participants were 227 parent–child dyads from Burundi, Africa, a low‐income country. Parents were 18 years of age or older, and children were 12–18 years (M = 14.76, SD = 1.88, 57.7% female). Among parents, 20.7%–69.5% of participants reported a history of physical and emotional abuse and neglect; among children, the rates of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse ranged from 14.5% to 89.4%. A history of CM in parents was associated with CM in children, B = 0.19, p < .01, and CM in parents was indirectly associated with CM in children through parent–child connectedness, β = .04, 95% CI [.01, .10], and parental depression, β = .08, 95% CI [.03, .15]. In children, maltreatment was positively associated with peer/sibling victimization, and CM was associated with aggression, β = .07, 95% CI [.04, 0.11], through PTSS but not via peer/sibling victimization. Continued efforts to improve CM‐related preventive strategies and the accessibility of prevention services are needed to reduce CM in low‐income countries such as Burundi.
Complication Risk in Ventral Skull Base Surgery Based on Preoperative Hematocrit
Authors: Flanagan Liam S. , Choi Chris B. , Lemdani Mehdi S. , Shah Aakash , Parray Aksha , Sukyte‐Raube Donata , Fang Christina H. , Baredes Soly , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: October 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Preoperative anemia has been shown to be a predictor of complications in different surgeries. This has not been exclusively studied in skull base surgery. This study investigates the impact of preoperative hematocrit on complications following ventral skull base (VSB) surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective database review.

Methods

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was queried for all cases of VSB surgery from 2005 to 2015. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to investigate the impact of preoperative anemia on complications following VSB procedures.

Results

3,053 patients meeting inclusion criteria were identified. On univariate analysis, low hematocrit was found in 39.7% of patients and was associated with increased mean age (55.71 vs. 53.25 years), male gender (63.6% vs. 36.4%), and Black race (18.5% vs. 10.9%). Preoperative anemia was also associated with increased incidences of postoperative pneumonia, blood transfusions, sepsis, medical complications, surgical complications, extended length of hospital stay (LOS), and mortality. On multivariate analysis, associations between low preoperative hematocrit and perioperative transfusions (odds ratio [OR] 2.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.88–3.50, P < .001), total surgical complications (OR 2.12, 95% CI 1.60–2.80, P < .001), and extended LOS (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.05–1.57, P = .013) remained significant.

Conclusions

Low preoperative hematocrit is associated with increased risk of postoperative complications and extended LOS in patients undergoing VSB surgery. This study highlights the importance of careful preoperative assessment and management of anemia in these patients.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:1707–1713, 2022
Impact of sustainable land‐use management practices on soil carbon storage and soil quality in Goa State, India
Authors: Paramesh Venkatesh , Singh Surendra Kumar , Mohekar Deepak S. , Arunachalam Vadivel , Misra Shiva Dhar , Jat Shankar Lal , Kumar Parveen , Nath Arun Jyoti , Kumar Nirmal , Mahajan Gopal Ramdas , Bhagat Tejasvi
Published: October 2021

Evaluating sustainable land management (SLM) practices have regional to worldwide implications. It is imperative to develop SLM under particular soil type, climate, and cropping sequence following area‐specific best management practices to harness maximum profitability. The alternative land‐use system (ALUS—natural forest, pasture, cashew, areca nut, coconut) on hills and agricultural land‐use system (AGLUS—rice–rice, rice–pulse) in the coastal plains of Goa State in west coast India were evaluated in this study. This study assessed the impact of sustainable land‐use management practices on different fractions of soil organic carbon (SOC), its stock, and soil quality index (SQI) under the ALUS and AGLUS. The total SOC stocks under different land‐use systems varied from 14.4 Mg C ha−1 in rice–rice rotations to 133.7 Mg C ha−1 in cashew. The lability index, available nutrients, and biochemical properties were higher in ALUS. The variation in the levels of SOC and soil quality was due to land use and management practices. The results indicated land use with areca nut (SQI = 0.8) on the hills and rice–pulses (SQI = 0.25) rotations on the coast had maintained soil quality of high order. We recommend promoting sustainable agriculture with ALUS on the hills and AGLUS on the coastal plains of Goa State to enhance SOC storage, improve soil quality, and increase farmers' income.
Influence of Salt Doping on the Entropy‐Driven Lower Disorder‐to‐Order Transition Behavior of Poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐Poly(4‐vinylpyridine)
Authors: Zhang Ze‐Kun , Ding Shi‐Peng , Zhou Yi‐Ting , Ye Ze , Wang Rui‐Yang , Du Bin‐Yang , Xu Jun‐Ting
Published: October 2021

Poly(ethylene oxide)‐b‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine) (PEO‐b‐P4VP) block copolymers (BCPs) exhibiting lower disorder‐to‐order transition (LDOT) phase behavior are doped with different salts (LiCl, CuCl2, and FeCl3), in which both blocks can competitively associate with the metal ions. It is found that the entropy‐driven LDOT phase behavior of PEO‐b‐P4VP can be bi‐directionally adjusted by enthalpic interactions, depending on the complexation selectivity of metal ions toward two blocks and doping ratio (r). At low rs, Li+ ions preferentially interact with PEO block, leading to a decreased disorder‐to‐order transition temperature (TDOT). Cu2+ ions selectively complex with the P4VP block, and the TDOT first increases with increasing r, followed by a decrease. By contrast, Fe3+ ions interact strongly with both blocks, resulting in increase of TDOT. At high rs, the complexation selectivity becomes weaker, leading to reduced immiscibility and increased TDOT, as compared with the hybrids with low rs. The effects of metal cation and r on the LDOT phase behavior are qualitatively explained by the change of the Flory–Huggins parameter.
Modified MOF‐Based Composite All‐Solid‐State Polymer Electrolyte with Improved Comprehensive Performance for Dendrite‐Free Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Yu , Zeng Qinghui , Chen Pingping , Li Zhenfeng , Chen Anqi , Guan Jiazhu , Wang Ailian , Zhang Liaoyun
Published: October 2021

Solid‐state polymer electrolytes (SPEs) used for Li‐ion batteries have consistently received widely−attention owing to its high safety, excellent flexibility, and good compatibility with electrodes. However, pristine SPEs are difficult to satisfy all necessary demands for the practical applications in high‐performance Li‐ion batteries. Herein, a polycaprolactone modified metal‐organic framework (MOF‐PCL) composite polymer electrolyte (CSPE) is fabricated through the facile UV‐light induced photopolymerization of boronic ester crosslinking monomer (BEM) and poly (ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) in the presence of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiTFSI) and MOF‐PCL. The existence of MOF‐PCL in the electrolyte can not only obviously improve the ion conduction, but also enhance electrochemical stability simultaneously. Besides, the boron‐doped network structure can further promote the transport of Li‐ions. As a result, the obtained CSPE has a higher lithium‐ion transference number of 0.59 and a wide electrochemical window of 5.29 V. Moreover, the LiFePO4/Li cell based on this CSPE also exhibits excellent long‐cycling and rate performance. Undoubtedly, this study not only can provide a new designed method for SPEs with comprehensive performance, but also exhibits a good application potential of this modified MOF‐based CSPE with borate ester in the high‐performance Li‐ion batteries.
Waterborne Polyurethane Enhanced, Adhesive, and Ionic Conductive Hydrogel for Multifunctional Sensors
Authors: Li Xiaobin , Zhang Ending , Shi Jun , Xiong Xiaoyan , Lin Jiaming , Zhang Qiang , Cui Xiaohua , Tan Liqin , Wu Kun
Published: October 2021

In the past two decades, ionic conductive hydrogel has attracted tremendous research interests for their intrinsic characteristics in the field of flexible sensor. However, synchronous achievement of high mechanical strength, satisfied ionic conductivity, and broad adhesion to various substrates is still a challenge. Herein, a novel zwitterionic composite hydrogel that displayed excited strechability (up to 900%), satisfied strength (about 30 kPa), high ionic conductivity (1.2 mS cm−1), and adhesion to polar and nonpolar materials is fabricated though the combination of waterborne polyurethanes (PU) and poly(sulfobetaine zwitterion‐co‐acrylamide) (SAm). Especially, this facile strategy demonstrates that PU has a synergistic effect on enhancing mechanical strength and ionic conductivity for ionic conductive hydrogel. Moreover, the hydrogel‐based strain/stress sensor shows high sensitivity, wide sensing range, great stability, and accuracy for human body movements detecting and voice recognition. This novel ionic conductive hydrogel has promoted the development of wearable devices.
In Situ Generation of Heterocyclic Polymers by Triple‐Bond Based Polymerizations
Authors: Wang Xinnan , Han Ting , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: October 2021

Stemming from unique ring structures, heterocyclic polymers exhibit distinguished electrical, mechanical, and photophysical properties and have been widely used in a variety of important applications. Along with the technological significance are the challenges in their synthesis. Traditional synthetic strategies toward heterocyclic polymers often require the direct attachment of heterocycles to polymer backbones, which are generally limited by the lack of suitable and low‐cost heterocyclic monomers, tedious reaction process, difficulties in incorporation of multiple substitutents, etc. Alternatively, in situ construction of heterocyclic polymers via triple‐bond based polymerization offers promising prospects. This review summarized the recent progress on polymerizations of triple‐bond based monomers including alkynes, nitriles, and isonitriles that can in situ generate heterocyclic polymers. The properties and advanced applications of the derived heterocyclic polymers will also be discussed. Finally, the future perspectives and challenges in this field will be addressed.
Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Luminescent Hydrogel Glued by a Cationic Polymeric Binder
Authors: Li Bin , Yu Jinxie , Niu Qingyu , Li Zhiqiang , Zhang Ying , Yang Daqing , Li Huanrong
Published: October 2021

Luminescent hydrogels have shown great potential in many fields, such as lighting, display, imaging, and sensing, because of their unique optical properties, biocompatibility, and easy processing. Organic–inorganic hybrid self‐assembly can not only enhance the hydrogels’ mechanical strength, but also retain their self‐healing ability. Herein, a luminescent supramolecular hydrogel is reported, which is formed via self‐assembly of the negatively charged Laponite nanosheets and cationic lanthanide coordination polymer. The corresponding results reveal that the multiple binding interaction between Laponite and the polymeric binder is vital for improving the mechanical performance of the obtained luminescent supramolecular hydrogel.