bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mild Microfluidic Approaches to Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesis
Authors: Zardi Paolo , Carofiglio Tommaso , Maggini Michele
Published: November 2021

Oxide nanoparticles (oxide NPs) are advanced materials with a wide variety of applications in different fields. The use of continuous flow methods is particularly appealing for their synthesis due to the high control achieved over the reaction conditions and the easy process scalability. The present review focuses on the preparation of oxide NPs using microfluidic setups at low temperature (≤80 °C), since the employment of mild reaction conditions is crucial for developing sustainable and cost‐effective processes. A particular emphasis will be put on the improvement over the final product features (e. g., size, shape, and size distribution) given by flow methods with respect to conventional batch procedures. The main issues that arise by treating NPs suspensions in microfluidic systems are product deposition or channel clogging; mitigation strategies to overcome these drawbacks will also be presented and discussed.
Late‐Stage Functionalization and Characterization of Drugs by High‐Throughput Desorption Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Huang Kai‐Hung , Ghosh Jyotirmoy , Xu Shiqing , Cooks R. Graham
Published: November 2021

Late‐stage functionalization (LSF) of drug molecules is an approach to generate modified molecules that retain functional groups present in the active drugs. Here, we report a study that seeks to characterize the potential value of high‐throughput desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HT DESI‐MS) for small‐scale rapid LSF. In conventional route screening, HT‐based DESI‐MS provides contactless, rapid analysis, reliable and reproducible data, minimal sample requirement, and exceptional tolerance to high salt concentrations. Ezetimibe (E), an established hypertension drug, is targeted for modification by LSF. C−H alkenylation and azo‐click reactions are utilized to explore this approach to synthesis and analytical characterization. The effect of choice of reactant, stoichiometry, catalyst, and solvent are studied for both reactions using high throughput DESI‐MS experiments. Optimum conditions for the formation of LSF products are established with identification by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS).
A step‐up dc–dc topology with high gain, continuous input current, and low‐voltage stress on power switch
Authors: Eshtiaghi Payam , Lahooti Eshkevari Alireza , Mosallanejad Ali
Published: November 2021

This paper proposes a new step‐up dc–dc converter, designed based on a new impedance network. The proposed single‐switch topology provides single‐stage conversion with a high boost factor using a high‐gain impedance source. The power switch is placed on the low‐voltage side of the converter. So it is exposed to low‐voltage stress. Thanks to this feature, the switch selection will be more convenient than before as it can be picked up from low‐voltage rating and low on‐resistance semiconductors. The topology is suitable for connecting to current‐sensitive energy resources due to the continuous input current. It operates with low duty cycles that yield decreasing the conduction losses of the power switch and improving the efficiency. Common ground is another advantage, which means the input and the output ground lines are the same. In this paper, the theory and operating principle of the proposed topology are presented in detail. Also, both simulation and experimental results will be represented to confirm the above claims. In this regard, a simple prototype has been built to evaluate the theoretical aspects. Results validate the topology and its operation.
C‐peptide, glycaemic control, and diabetic complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A real‐world study
Authors: Huang Yajing , Wang Yahao , Liu Chuanfeng , Zhou Yue , Wang Xiang , Cheng Bingfei , Kui Che , Wang Yangang
Published: November 2021

Objective

To explore the relationship between C‐peptide and glycaemic control rate and diabetic complications (microvascular complication and cerebral infarction) and provide evidence for stratified treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)‐based C‐peptide.

Method

This is a cross‐sectional real‐world observational study. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we studied 1377 patients with T2DM, grouped by fasting C‐peptide and HOMA‐IR. Blood samples were collected after fasting overnight. Logistic regression was used to analyse the relationship among fasting C‐peptide, HOMA‐IR, C2/C0 ratio (the ratio of 2 h postprandial C‐peptide to fasting C‐peptide), glycaemic control rate, and occurrence of diabetic complications. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves based on logistic regression were used to evaluate the relationship between C‐peptide, glycaemic control rate, and diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Results

Patients were subdivided according to their fasting C‐peptide in 4 groups (Q1,Q2,Q3,Q4). Patients of group Q3 (1.71 ≤ C‐peptide < 2.51 ng/ml) showed the lowest incidence of DKD, diabetic retinopathy (DR), and rate of insulin absorption as welll as higher glycaemic control rate. Logistic regression shows that the probability of reaching glycemic control increased with higher levels of C‐peptide, compared with group Q1, after adjusting for age, gender, duration of diabetes, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, creatinine, low‐density lipoprotein, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein. RCS curve shows that, when C‐peptide is ≤2.68 ng/ml, the incidence of not reaching glycaemic control decreases with increasing C‐peptide. The possibility of not reaching glycaemic control decreased with increasing C2/C0, when C‐peptide is ≥1.71 ng/ml. RCS curve shows that the relationship between C‐peptide and DKD follows a U‐style curve. When C‐peptide is <2.84 ng/ml, the incidence of DKD decreased with increasing C‐peptide. With the increase in the C2/C0 ratio, the incidence of DKD, DR, and fatty liver did not decrease.

Conclusion

When C‐peptide is ≥ 1.71 and < 2.51 ng/ml, patients with T2DM had a higher glycemic control rate. Excessive C‐peptide plays different roles in DKD and DR; C‐peptide may promote the incidence of DKD but protects patients from DR. Higher C2/C0 ratio is important for reaching glycaemic control but cannot reduce the risk of DKD, DR, and fatty liver.
Biomarker‐based assessment of collagen cross‐linking identifies patients at risk of heart failure more likely to benefit from spironolactone effects on left atrial remodelling. Insights from the HOMAGE clinical trial
Authors: Ravassa Susana , López Begoña , Ferreira João Pedro , Girerd Nicolas , Bozec Erwan , Pellicori Pierpaolo , Mariottoni Beatrice , Cosmi Franco , Hazebroek Mark , Verdonschot Job A.J. , Cuthbert Joe , Petutschnigg Johannes , Moreno María U. , Heymans Stephane , Staessen Jan A. , Pieske Burkert , Edelmann Frank , Clark Andrew L. , Cleland John G.F. , Zannad Faiez , Díez Javier , González Arantxa ,   on behalf of the HOMAGE Trial Committees and Investigators
Published: November 2021

Aims

The HOMAGE randomized trial found that spironolactone reduced left atrial volume index (LAVI), E:A ratio, and a marker of collagen type I synthesis (procollagen type I C‐terminal propeptide) in patients at risk of heart failure (HF). Previous trials showed that patients with HF, preserved ejection fraction and low serum collagen type I C‐terminal telopeptide to matrix metalloproteinase‐1 ratio (CITP:MMP‐1), associated with high collagen cross‐linking, had less improvement in diastolic function with spironolactone. We evaluated the interaction between serum CITP:MMP‐1 and spironolactone on cardiac function in the HOMAGE trial.

Methods and results

Patients at risk of HF were randomized to spironolactone (n = 260) or not (n = 255). Blood sampling and echocardiography were done at baseline, one and nine months. CITP:MMP‐1 was used as an indirect measure of collagen cross‐linking. Higher baseline CITP:MMP‐1 (i.e. lower collagen cross‐linking) was associated with greater reductions in LAVI with spironolactone at both one (p = 0.003) and nine (p = 0.01) months, but no interaction was observed for E:A ratio. Spironolactone reduced LAVI after one and nine months only for those patients in the third tertile of CITP:MMP‐1 (estimated lowest collagen cross‐linking) [mean differencesspiro/control: −1.77 (95% confidence interval, CI −2.94 to −0.59) and −2.52 (95% CI −4.46 to −0.58) mL/m2; interaction pacross‐tertiles = 0.005; interaction pthird tertile = 0.008] with a similar trend for N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide which was consistently reduced by spironolactone only in the lowest collagen cross‐linking tertile [mean differencesspiro/control: −0.47 (95% CI −0.66 to −0.28) and −0.31 (95% CI −0.59 to −0.04) ng/L; interaction pacross‐tertiles = 0.09; interaction pthird tertile < 0.001].

Conclusions

These findings suggest that, for patients at risk of HF, the effects of spironolactone on left atrial remodelling may be more prominent in patients with less collagen cross‐linking (indirectly assessed by serum CITP:MMP‐1).
Effect of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid on bone health: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Dou Yuqi , Wang Ying , Chen Zekun , Yu Xue , Ma Defu
Published: November 2021

Bone metabolism is a complicated process, which involves bone modeling and remodeling. If this process is unbalanced, bone loss and resultant osteoporosis might occur. Recently, nutrition supplementations such as n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are considered to be used on improving the bone metabolism and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. To more precisely assess the effects of n‐3 PUFA supplementation on bone mass and clarify its potential mechanism, we have conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Based on the strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, 12 articles were included in this meta‐analysis. The results in articles show that n‐3 PUFAs could slightly enhance the level of bone mineral density (BMD) (0.005 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.000–0.010) (n = 7), which was the primary outcome for the research in comparison with the control group. In addition, the results also illustrate that the increasing effect on BMD (0.024 g/cm2; 95% CI, 0.020–0.028) became more significant for postmenopausal women. N‐3 PUFAs had no significance on the level of bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP) (−0.24 µg/L; 95% CI, −0.86 to 0.39) and osteocalcin (−0.63 μg/L; 95% CI, −1.84 to 0.57) (n = 5), which are the specific markers of bone formation. When compared with the eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid supplementation, the supplementation form of α‐linolenic acid significantly increased the content of BALP (0.396 µg/L; 95% CI, 0.069–0.724). The effects of n‐3 PUFAs on bone resorption biomarkers containing type I collagen cross‐linked C‐terminal peptide (CTX) and type I collagen cross‐linked N‐terminal peptide (NTX) are considered and used in our study. Results indicated that participants who received n‐3 PUFAs significantly decreased the level of CTX in the human body (−0.367 μg/L; 95% CI, −0.726 to −0.007) (n = 4). However, there was no significant difference in NTX levels in humans after supplementation with n‐3 PUFA (−1.744 µg/L; 95% CI, −3.970–0.481) (n = 3). For postmenopausal women, it presented a significant decreasing level of CTX (−0.393 µg/L; 95% CI, −0.651 to −0.135) and NTX (−2.082 µg/L; 95% CI, −2.970 to −1.195) within their bodies. In conclusion, these findings suggested that n‐3 PUFAs might have a beneficial effect on bone health, especially for α‐linolenic acid supplementation form or for postmenopausal women.
Prediagnostic alterations in circulating bile acid profiles in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Stepien Magdalena , Lopez‐Nogueroles Marina , Lahoz Agustin , Kühn Tilman , Perlemuter Gabriel , Voican Cosmin , Ciocan Dragos , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Jansen Eugene , Viallon Vivian , Leitzmann Michael , Tjønneland Anne , Severi Gianluca , Mancini Francesca Romana , Dong Catherine , Kaaks Rudolf , Fortner Renee Turzanski , Bergmann Manuela M. , Boeing Heiner , Trichopoulou Antonia , Karakatsani Anna , Peppa Eleni , Palli Domenico , Krogh Vittorio , Tumino Rosario , Sacerdote Carlotta , Panico Salvatore , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H. Bas , Skeie Guri , Merino Susana , Ros Raul Zamora , Sánchez Maria Jose , Amiano Pilar , Huerta Jose Mª , Barricarte Aurelio , Sjöberg Klas , Ohlsson Bodil , Nyström Hanna , Werner Marten , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Schmidt Julie A. , Freisling Heinz , Scalbert Augustin , Weiderpass Elisabete , Christakoudi Sofia , Gunter Marc J. , Jenab Mazda
Published: November 2021

Bile acids (BAs) play different roles in cancer development. Some are carcinogenic and BA signaling is also involved in various metabolic, inflammatory and immune‐related processes. The liver is the primary site of BA synthesis. Liver dysfunction and microbiome compositional changes, such as during hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, may modulate BA metabolism increasing concentration of carcinogenic BAs. Observations from prospective cohorts are sparse. We conducted a study (233 HCC case‐control pairs) nested within a large observational prospective cohort with blood samples taken at recruitment when healthy with follow‐up over time for later cancer development. A targeted metabolomics method was used to quantify 17 BAs (primary/secondary/tertiary; conjugated/unconjugated) in prediagnostic plasma. Odd ratios (OR) for HCC risk associations were calculated by multivariable conditional logistic regression models. Positive HCC risk associations were observed for the molar sum of all BAs (ORdoubling = 2.30, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.76‐3.00), and choline‐ and taurine‐conjugated BAs. Relative concentrations of BAs showed positive HCC risk associations for glycoholic acid and most taurine‐conjugated BAs. We observe an association between increased HCC risk and higher levels of major circulating BAs, from several years prior to tumor diagnosis and after multivariable adjustment for confounders and liver functionality. Increase in BA concentration is accompanied by a shift in BA profile toward higher proportions of taurine‐conjugated BAs, indicating early alterations of BA metabolism with HCC development. Future studies are needed to assess BA profiles for improved stratification of patients at high HCC risk and to determine whether supplementation with certain BAs may ameliorate liver dysfunction.
Introduction of a Cys360Tyr Mutation in ANO5 Creates a Mouse Model for Gnathodiaphyseal Dysplasia
Authors: Li Hongyu , Wang Xiaoyu , Chen Erjun , Liu Xiu , Ma Xinrong , Miao Congcong , Tian Zhenchuan , Dong Rui , Hu Ying
Published: November 2021

Gnathodiaphyseal dysplasia (GDD) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disease characterized by the osteosclerosis of tubular bones and the formation of cemento-osseous lesions in mandibles. Although genetic mutations for GDD have been identified in the ANO5/TMEM16E gene, the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the pathogenesis of GDD remain unclear. Here, we generated the first knock-in mouse model for GDD with the expression of human mutation p.Cys360Tyr in ANO5. Homozygous Ano5 knock-in mice (Ano5KI/KI) replicated GDD-like skeletal features, including massive jawbones, bowing tibia, bone fragility, sclerosis, and cortical thickening of the femoral and tibial diaphysis. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were elevated in Ano5KI/KI mice as in GDD patients with p.Cys360Tyr mutation. Calvaria-derived Ano5KI/KI osteoblast cultures showed increased osteoblastogenesis, including hypermineralized bone matrix and enhanced bone formation-related factors expression. Interestingly, Ano5KI/KI bone marrow-derived macrophage cultures showed decreased osteoclastogenesis, and Ano5KI/KI osteoclasts exhibited disrupted actin ring formation, which may be associated with some signaling pathways. In conclusion, this new mouse model may facilitate elucidation of the pathogenesis of GDD and shed more light on its treatment. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Comparison of Bougainvillea spectabilis and Bougainvillea glabra species inhibited in Pakistan based on microscopic studies: Light microscope and scanning electron microscope
Authors: Shaheen Shabnum , Khan Muhammad Asaf , Naeem Muhammad Afzal , Shahid Muhammad Naveed , Jaffer Mehwish , Mukhtar Hanan
Published: November 2021

The anatomical variations of two plants from the Nyctaginaceae family, Bougainvillea spectabilis and Bougainvillea glabra, were studied using light and scanning electron microscopy methods in this work. Bougainvillea is a dicotyledonous with defensive traits that can withstand extreme (hot and dry) settings; according to the findings, crystal inclusions in cells, woody spines, and an abnormal development pattern are all features that help them survive against predators and are unique to this species. The Bougainvillea plant's leaves are arranged in simple pattern, alternate to each other along stem having an undulate leaves edge and an oval form. The xylem and phloem, palisade, parenchyma midrib, spongy mesophyll, raphide crystal bundles, and trichomes were all visible when bracts and leaves were transversally sectioned and dyed with toluidine blue O (TBO). The presence of crystals was confirmed by a detailed examination of the transverse leaves by using bright‐field and cross‐polarizing microscopy. Dissecting microscopic examination showed that all the leaves revealed leaves venation pattern that had midvein, lateral veins areoles, and trichomes. Although trichomes have been identified on both sides, a closer look at a cleaned leaf dyed with TBO showed multicellular abundant trichomes on adaxial surface. Stomata complexes were typically found on the abaxial surface of the leaf according to epidermal peels. Present studies also showed that on adaxial side, stomata were lesser in number or were absent and also showed that the morphologies of the pavement cells on the adaxial and abaxial sides of the leaf differed.
Palyno‐morphological attributes of some selected plant species of family Asteraceae from district Dera Ismail Khan, KPK, Pakistan
Authors: Gul Farheen , Malik Khafsa , Qureshi Rahmatullah , Ahmad Mushtaq , Ansari Lubna , Zafar Muhammad , Hussain Sabtain , Khalid Sidra , Imran Muhammad , Rashid Neelam
Published: November 2021

The current study aimed to investigate the palyno‐morphological features of Asteraceous species from District Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 13 species were collected, pressed, identified, and examined by using light and scanning electron microscopy. Both qualitative and quantitative pollen characters were observed, that is, equatorial and polar diameter, number of pores and colpi, exine thickness, exine sculpturing, pollen shape, and P/E ratio. Pollen shapes observed in studied taxa were spheroidal, suboblate, oblate‐spheroidal, and lophate‐spheroidal. The aperturation patterns of pollens vary from tricolporate to tetracolporate. The maximum polar and equatorial diameter of 75–100 (87.5 ± 13.6) μm and 87.5–117.5 (102.5 ± 16.4) μm, respectively, was recorded in Echinops echinatus, while minimum polar and equatorial diameter of 20–22.5 (21 ± 1.36) μm and 22.5–25 (23.5 ± 1.36) μm, respectively, was recorded in Aster subulatus. Six types of exine sculpturing patterns were observed; echinate, micro‐echinate, echinate‐microreticulate, microreticulate, echinate‐perforate, and scabrate. Maximum exine thickness of 8.75 μm was recorded in E. echinatus and minimum of 1.25 μm in Launaea mucronata. The pollen morphology has valuable significance in understanding the taxonomy of different plant groups and plays a central role in the correct identification and classification of Asteraceous flora at species, generic, and tribe levels.
Quantifying Bone Marrow Fat Fraction and Iron by MRI for Distinguishing Aplastic Anemia from Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Authors: Zeng Zhaolong , Ma Xiangzheng , Guo Yifan , Ye Baodong , Xu Maosheng , Wang Wei
Published: November 2021

ROIs were manually drawn at the level containing the largest section of the left posterior superior ilium (A, B, D, E). The zoomed version of the ROIs showed in the upper left corner. (A, D) FF value of AA and MDS is 86.98% and 25.84%, respectively. (B, E) Iron content from R2*image is 117.91 and 147.98/second. (C, F) Histologic sections images of AA and MDS. Compared with MDS group (F), the number of fat cells (black arrow) in the AA group (C) was increased by Zeng et al. (1754–1760)

image
Meta‐Analysis of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient in Pediatric Medulloblastoma, Ependymoma, and Pilocytic Astrocytoma
Authors: Dury Richard J. , Lourdusamy Anbarasu , Macarthur Donald C. , Peet Andrew C. , Auer Dorothee P. , Grundy Richard G. , Dineen Robert A.
Published: November 2021

Background

Medulloblastoma, ependymoma, and pilocytic astrocytoma are common pediatric posterior fossa tumors. These tumors show overlapping characteristics on conventional MRI scans, making diagnosis difficult.

Purpose

To investigate whether apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values differ between tumor types and to identify optimum cut‐off values to accurately classify the tumors using different performance metrics.

Study type

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Subjects

Seven studies reporting ADC in pediatric posterior fossa tumors (115 medulloblastoma, 68 ependymoma, and 86 pilocytic astrocytoma) were included following PubMed and ScienceDirect searches.

Sequence and Field Strength

Diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) was performed on 1.5 and 3 T across multiple institution and vendors.

Assessment

The combined mean and standard deviation of ADC were calculated for each tumor type using a random‐effects model, and the effect size was calculated using Hedge's g.

Statistical Tests

Sensitivity/specificity, weighted classification accuracy, balanced classification accuracy. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant, and a Hedge's g value of >1.2 was considered to represent a large difference.

Results

The mean (± standard deviation) ADCs of medulloblastoma, ependymoma, and pilocytic astrocytoma were 0.76 ± 0.16, 1.10 ± 0.10, and 1.49 ± 0.16 mm2/sec × 10−3. To maximize sensitivity and specificity using the mean ADC, the cut‐off was found to be 0.96 mm2/sec × 10−3 for medulloblastoma and ependymoma and 1.26 mm2/sec × 10−3 for ependymoma and pilocytic astrocytoma. The meta‐analysis showed significantly different ADC distributions for the three posterior fossa tumors. The cut‐off values changed markedly (up to 7%) based on the performance metric used and the prevalence of the tumor types.

Data Conclusion

There were significant differences in ADC between tumor types. However, it should be noted that only summary statistics from each study were analyzed and there were differences in how regions of interest were defined between studies.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
MRI‐Based Multiple Instance Convolutional Neural Network for Increased Accuracy in the Differentiation of Borderline and Malignant Epithelial Ovarian Tumors
Authors: Jian Junming , Li Yong'ai , Xia Wei , He Zhang , Zhang Rui , Li Haiming , Zhao Xingyu , Zhao Shuhui , Zhang Jiayi , Cai Songqi , Wu Xiaodong , Gao Xin , Qiang Jinwei
Published: November 2021

Background

Preoperative differentiation of borderline from malignant epithelial ovarian tumors (BEOT vs. MEOT) is challenging and can significantly impact surgical management.

Purpose

To develop a multiple instance convolutional neural network (MICNN) that can differentiate BEOT from MEOT, and to compare its diagnostic performance with that of radiologists.

Study Type

Retrospective study of eight clinical centers.

Subjects

Between January 2010 and June 2018, a total of 501 women (mean age, 48.93 ± 14.05 years) with histopathologically confirmed BEOT (N = 165) or MEOT (N = 336) were divided into the training (N = 342) and validation cohorts (N = 159).

Field Strength/Sequence

Three axial sequences from 1.5 or 3 T scanner were used: fast spin echo T2‐weighted imaging with fat saturation (T2WI FS), echo planar diffusion‐weighted imaging, and 2D volumetric interpolated breath‐hold examination of contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted imaging (CE‐T1WI) with FS.

Assessment

Three monoparametric MICNN models were built based on T2WI FS, apparent diffusion coefficient map, and CE‐T1WI. Based on these monoparametric models, we constructed an early multiparametric (EMP) model and a late multiparametric (LMP) model using early and late information fusion methods, respectively. The diagnostic performance of the models was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and compared to the performance of six radiologists with varying levels of experience.

Statistical Tests

We used DeLong test, chi‐square test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and t‐test, with significance level of 0.05.

Results

Both EMP and LMP models differentiated BEOT from MEOT, with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.855 (95% CI, 0.795–0.915) and 0.884 (95% CI, 0.831–0.938), respectively. The AUC of the LMP model was significantly higher than the radiologists' pooled AUC (0.884 vs. 0.797).

Data Conclusion

The developed MICNN models can effectively differentiate BEOT from MEOT and the diagnostic performances (AUCs) were more superior than that of the radiologists' assessments.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Inter‐comparison of historical simulation and future projections of rainfall and temperature by CMIP5 and CMIP6 GCMs over Egypt
Authors: Hamed Mohammed Magdy , Nashwan Mohamed Salem , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: November 2021

The global climate models (GCMs) performances of the recently released Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) compared to its predecessor, CMIP5, are evaluated to anticipate the expected changes in climate over Egypt. Thirteen GCMs and their multi‐model ensemble (MME) of both CMIPs were used for this purpose. The future projections were compared for two radiative concentration pathways (RCP 4.5 and 8.5) and two shared socio‐economic pathways (SSP 2–4.5 and 5–8.5). The results revealed improvement in most CMIP6 models in replicating historical rainfall, maximum temperature (Tmax), and minimum temperature (Tmin) climatology over Egypt. The MME of the CMIPs revealed that both could reproduce Egypt's spatial distribution and seasonal climate variability. However, the bias in CMIP5 was higher than that for CMIP6. The uncertainties in simulating seasonal variability of rainfall and temperatures were lower for CMIP6 compared to CMIP5. The future projection of rainfall using CMIP6 MME revealed a higher reduction of precipitation (10–26 mm) in the economically crucial northern region than that estimated using CMIP5 (0–17 mm), compared to 133.5 mm rainfall in the base period. CMIP6 also projected a 0.74–1.63°C more rise in Tmax and Tmin compared to CMIP5 by the end of the century. The study indicates more aggravated scenarios of climate changes in Egypt than anticipated earlier, using the CMIP5 models. Therefore, Egypt needs to streamline the existing adaptation and mitigation measures to account for climate projections.
Co‐application of wood distillate and biochar improves soil quality and plant growth in basil (Ocimum basilicum)#
Authors: Becagli Michelangelo , Santin Marco , Cardelli Roberto
Published: November 2021

Background

Nowadays, an ever‐increasing attention toward eco‐friendly and sustainable agricultural practices, such as the use of biological fertilizers that do not alter the ecological balance of soil, has been grown worldwide.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of wood distillate (WD), biochar (B), and their combination (BWD) in increasing soil biomass, soil biological activities, and plant growth in basil (Ocimum basilicumL.) by determination of plant biomass.

Methods

Plants of basil were cultivated in greenhouse with three different amendments. WD was applied at a 1% dilution through fertigation. B was applied at a rate of 2% (w/w) corresponding to 34 t ha–1. Organic carbon (OC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), soil microbial biomass carbon (MB‐C), and enzymatic activities (dehydrogenase, phosphatase, arylsulfatase, β‐glucosidase, and urease) were determined at the end of the cultivation period (4 weeks) in bulk soil and in the rhizospheric soil. The alteration index three (AI3), which calculates the balances between three enzymes and potentially allows to quantify in relative terms the differences between soils due to different management practices, was also determined.

Results

WD and B significantly increased OC and MB‐C content, whereas B preferentially retains soil DOC species and the organic substance of the WD in the BWD treatment. Phosphatase and urease activities were the most increased with the combination of the two amendments. AI3 in controls suggests that the application of WD and B at the right doses promotes the activity of soil microorganisms, enhancing the soil biological quality.

Conclusion

The presence of the two organic sources increased the availability of nitrogen and phosphorus, with a positive response in terms of basil dry biomass. WD and B have been confirmed as suitable and sustainable amendments for potential application in crops cultivation.
A process to deduplicate individuals for regional chronic disease prevalence estimates using a distributed data network of electronic health records
Authors: Scott Kenneth A. , Davies Sara Deakyne , Zucker Rachel , Ong Toan , Kraus Emily McCormick , Kahn Michael G , Bondy Jessica , Daley Matt F. , Horle Kate , Bacon Emily , Schilling Lisa , Crume Tessa , Hasnain‐Wynia Romana , Foldy Seth , Budney Gregory , Davidson Arthur J.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Learning health systems can help estimate chronic disease prevalence through distributed data networks (DDNs). Concerns remain about bias introduced to DDN prevalence estimates when individuals seeking care across systems are counted multiple times. This paper describes a process to deduplicate individuals for DDN prevalence estimates.

Methods

We operationalized a two‐step deduplication process, leveraging health information exchange (HIE)‐assigned network identifiers, within the Colorado Health Observation Regional Data Service (CHORDS) DDN. We generated prevalence estimates for type 1 and type 2 diabetes among pediatric patients (0‐17 years) with at least one 2017 encounter in one of two geographically‐proximate DDN partners. We assessed the extent of cross‐system duplication and its effect on prevalence estimates.

Results

We identified 218 437 unique pediatric patients seen across systems during 2017, including 7628 (3.5%) seen in both. We found no measurable difference in prevalence after deduplication. The number of cases we identified differed slightly by data reconciliation strategy. Concordance of linked patients' demographic attributes varied by attribute.

Conclusions

We implemented an HIE‐dependent, extensible process that deduplicates individuals for less biased prevalence estimates in a DDN. Our null pilot findings have limited generalizability. Overlap was small and likely insufficient to influence prevalence estimates. Other factors, including the number and size of partners, the matching algorithm, and the electronic phenotype may influence the degree of deduplication bias. Additional use cases may help improve understanding of duplication bias and reveal other principles and insights. This study informed how DDNs could support learning health systems' response to public health challenges and improve regional health.
Influence of plasma nitriding pre‐treatment on the corrosion and tribocorrosion behaviours of PVD CrN, TiN and AlTiN coated AISI 4140 steel in seawater
Authors: Alkan Sabri , Gök Mustafa Sabri
Published: November 2021

CrN, TiN and AlTiN coatings were applied by the Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) method on AISI 4140 and plasma nitrided (PN) AISI 4140 steel. The study aimed to investigate the effect of plasma nitriding before PVD on the corrosion and tribocorrosion behaviour of AISI 4140 steel in seawater. The electrochemical corrosion behaviour of the samples was evaluated in natural seawater by the potentiodynamic polarisation method. Tribocorrosion tests were performed against alumina in natural seawater under 5 N load and open circuit potential (OCP) using a ball‐on‐disk tribometer coupled with an electrochemical cell. As a result of the study, plasma nitriding applied before the coating significantly improved corrosion and tribocorrosion resistance of PVD CrN, TiN and AlTiN coatings. Besides, it was concluded that duplex treated low alloy AISI 4140 steel could be a candidate instead of stainless steel in tribocorrosion conditions for the marine environment.
Upgrading Our Online Offerings and an Exciting Wrap‐Up to 2021
Authors: Atwood Stephen P.
Published: November 2021

It's a really exciting time for Information Display, with terrific content arriving from our authors and excellent work coming from our guest editors. This year, we expanded our scope on business and market coverage, while also exploring more human‐interest stories about the people and institutions driving our industry.
Colloidal Quantum Dot Image Sensors: Technology and Marketplace Opportunities
Authors: Goossens Stijn , Konstantatos Gerasimos , Oikonomou Antonios
Published: November 2021

CQD image sensor technology is a promising platform that enables the emergence of widespread advanced computer vision applications.
Heavy‐Metal‐Free Quantum Dot‐Based Flexible Electronics
Authors: Zhao Tianshuo , Basu Amrita , Ramasamy Karthik , Makarov Nikolay S. , McDaniel Hunter , Kagan Cherie R.
Published: November 2021

Applications of flexible electronics typically depend less on high computational power, instead exploiting the advantages of devices with a high degree of deformation that are lightweight, disposable or degradable, and low‐cost.
Business Conference Predicts Key Markets' Futures
Authors: Raikes Bob
Published: November 2021

Display Week Business Conference presents a wide range of views, analysts, and topics.
High‐efficiency algorithms for simulating metal failure effects under multiaxial repeated loadings
Authors: Zhan Lin , Wang Si‐Yu , Bruhns Otto T. , Xiao Heng
Published: November 2021

High‐efficiency algorithms are proposed for numerically integrating elasto‐plastic rate equations for the purpose of simulating metal failure effects under repeated loading conditions. Results are obtained with a newly established elasto‐plasticity model which can automatically simulate both low and high cycle fatigue failure effects, with reference to neither damage‐like variables nor ad hoc failure criteria. Novelties are incorporated in a few respects. First, multiaxial loading processes with arbitrarily changing principal stresses and axes can be treated in a broad sense beyond usually treated proportional loading cases. Second, by means of the commonly used ‐invariant of the deviatoric stress, multiaxial loading cases can be directly treated just as in the uniaxial loading case. Third, high cost in time consumption can be considerably reduced in evaluating both low and high cycle failure effects. Numerical examples are presented for simulating uniaxial and multiaxial fatigue failure effects and simulation results are in good agreement with experimental data. Results show that the computation speed with the new algorithms exceeds 600 times faster than usual integration algorithms.
Giving stakeholders a voice in governance: Biodiversity priorities for New Zealand's agriculture
Authors: MacLeod Catriona J. , Brandt Angela J. , Collins Kevin , Dicks Lynn V.
Published: November 2021

Mainstreaming biodiversity across government and society is recognised by international policy as critical to achieving positive conservation outcomes. With ‘participatory governance’ increasingly being applied to achieve collective action in conservation, there are growing calls to critically review such processes to capture their complexity and manage for emergent outcomes.

This paper critically reviews a case study, aiming to give a broad range of stakeholders a voice in setting biodiversity priorities for New Zealand's agricultural landscape, in relation to four principles for knowledge co‐production in sustainability: context‐based, pluralistic, goal‐orientated and interactive.

Aiming to facilitate an inclusive but rapid participation process, while not overburdening those willing to participate, three pathways for engagement were offered. Stakeholder participants were recruited from public, private and civic sectors involved in managing New Zealand's farmland biodiversity.

An initial scoping exercise helped elevate biodiversity groups and management actions distinct to New Zealand's social and environmental context. Online surveys then gave stakeholders, from a diverse range of roles and sectors, a nationwide voice to express their own biodiversity interests and needs; these were reviewed by an advisor panel to reach consensus on final priorities that reflected the biodiversity outcomes that matter most to stakeholders involved in managing New Zealand's agricultural landscape and the management practices they considered most relevant to achieving those outcomes.

This knowledge co‐production process delivered multiple gains that would not have been achieved had a more traditional science‐based process been applied, such as wide stakeholder engagement, identification of a tangible starting point, mitigation of bias or conflict risks, enhanced researcher and practitioner capabilities and a shared understanding of the opportunities and challenges for future development.

Institutes addressing conservation challenges within local contexts need to: be ‘boundary‐spanning’ to manage cross‐scale influences and enable desired conservation behaviours; plan explicitly for the substantial effort required to overcome existing power hierarchies and facilitate transparent and structured decision processes that deliver social justice; better capture the relational values of nature to more successfully leverage peoples’ connection to nature in conservation policies and practices; and incorporate wider environmental (e.g. biosecurity), social, economic and political considerations.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Protected areas and the neglected contribution of Indigenous Peoples and local communities: Struggles for environmental justice in the Caatinga dry forest
Authors: Dawson Neil , Carvalho William Douglas , Bezerra Jakelyne S. , Todeschini Felipe , Tabarelli Marcelo , Mustin Karen
Published: November 2021

Despite evidence about the contribution of Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLCs) to conservation, prevailing strategies still seek their separation from nature, often triggering conflicts. Current pledges to expand global protected area coverage suggest a need for the critical analysis of governance quality and the way conservation interacts with the well‐being of IPLCs.

We present the case of Catimbau National Park in the Caatinga dry forest of northeast Brazil, where we explored connections between the well‐being of IPLCs and landscape through different values, practices and institutions, and perceptions of how environmentally just the park's governance has been.

The well‐being of IPLCs is inextricably connected with the Caatinga landscape, through multiple place‐based relational values that, although differing between Indigenous and non‐indigenous inhabitants, have in both cases developed over generations. Although often framed as degraders, IPLCs exhibit a strong motivation to conserve, reflected through local institutions including forest gardens, sustainable use regulations, restoration activities and prevention of external encroachment.

The strict form of protected area implemented at Catimbau, instead of a locally led or sustainable use reserve, explicitly targeted the resettlement of IPLCs and livelihood reorientation. These imposed objectives have clashed with a way of life in this peopled landscape and precluded local stewardship on a larger scale. Long‐term conflict arose through governance deficiencies which sparked multidimensional injustices. These include not only the misrecognition of local values and customary institutions but also the lack of procedures for consent or decision‐making influence, plus distributional harms including tenure insecurity and denied development assistance.

Development and conservation strategies must reject narratives about poor, resource‐dependent rural communities and embrace the opportunities that local knowledge and institutions bring for effective conservation. As conservation efforts are expanded post‐2020, the people of the Caatinga and beyond must be recognised as embedded and a key part of any solution.

In strict protected areas like Catimbau, where social conflict constrains their ability to function, seeking legal changes in governance type can be onerous. However, we describe other local‐level actions to build relationships and agency that may foster transitions towards better governance, and just treatment of IPLCs.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Asymmetric distribution of extracellular matrix proteins in seed coat epidermal cells of Arabidopsis is determined by polar secretion
Authors: Lee Yi‐Chen , Dean Gillian H. , Gilchrist Erin , Tsai Allen Yi‐Lun , Haughn George W.
Published: November 2021

Although asymmetric deposition of the plant extracellular matrix is critical for the normal functioning of many cell types, the molecular mechanisms establishing this asymmetry are not well understood. During differentiation, Arabidopsis seed coat epidermal cells deposit large amounts of pectin‐rich mucilage asymmetrically to form an extracellular pocket between the plasma membrane and the outer tangential primary cell wall. At maturity, the mucilage expands on contact with water, ruptures the primary cell wall, and extrudes to encapsulate the seed. In addition to polysaccharides, mucilage contains secreted proteins including the β‐galactosidase MUCILAGE MODIFIED 2 (MUM2). A functional chimeric protein where MUM2 was fused translationally with Citrine yellow fluorescent protein (Citrine) indicated that MUM2‐Citrine fluorescence preferentially accumulates in the mucilage pocket concomitant with mucilage deposition and rapidly disappears when mucilage synthesis ceases. A secreted form of Citrine, secCitrine, showed a similar pattern of localization when expressed in developing seed coat epidermal cells. This result suggested that both the asymmetric localization and rapid decrease of fluorescence is not unique to MUM2‐Citrine and may represent the default pathway for secreted proteins in this cell type. v‐SNARE proteins were localized only in the membrane adjacent to the mucilage pocket, supporting the hypothesis that the cellular secretory apparatus is redirected and targets secretion to the outer periclinal apoplast during mucilage synthesis. In addition, mutation of ECHIDNA, a gene encoding a TGN‐localized protein involved in vesicle targeting, causes misdirection of mucilage, MUM2 and v‐SNARE proteins from the apoplast/plasma membrane to the vacuole/tonoplast. Western blot analyses suggested that the disappearance of MUM2‐Citrine fluorescence at the end of mucilage synthesis is due to protein degradation and because several proteases have been identified in extruded seed mucilage. However, as mutation of these genes did not result in a substantial delay in MUM2‐Citrine degradation and the timing of their expression and/or their intracellular localization were not consistent with a role in MUM2‐Citrine disappearance, the mechanism underlying the abrupt decrease of MUM2‐Citrine remains unclear.
Synthesis of poly(1‐vinylimidazole)‐block‐poly(9‐vinylcarbazole) copolymers via RAFT and their use in chemically responsive graphitic composites
Authors: Migliore Nicola , Araya‐Hermosilla Esteban , Scheutz Georg M. , Sumerlin Brent S. , Pucci Andrea , Raffa Patrizio
Published: November 2021

This study reports the synthesis of novel poly(1‐vinylimidazole)‐b‐poly(9‐vinylcarbazole) (PVI‐b‐PVK) block copolymers with varying monomer ratios using reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization and their incorporation in responsive composite materials. Specifically, non‐covalent exfoliation of two different conductive fillers, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) or reduced graphene oxide (rGO), was studied. The percolation threshold of the synthesized nanocomposites was dependent on the polymer used for dispersion, showing a better affinity of the fillers for block copolymers with higher relative carbazole content. Resistivity measurements showed selective variation in the resistance signal when the materials were exposed to various organic solvents and acids, providing a good basis for the design of sensing devices.
Decreased mental health, quality of life, and utilization of professional help in cancer patients with unexpressed needs: A longitudinal analysis
Authors: Heß Verena , Meng Karin , Schulte Thomas , Neuderth Silke , Bengel Jürgen , Faller Hermann , Schuler Michael
Published: November 2021

Background

Cancer patients' mental health and quality of life can be improved through professional support according to their needs. In previous analyses of the UNSAID study, we showed that a relevant proportion of cancer patients did not express their needs during the admission interview of inpatient rehabilitation. We now examine trajectories of mental health, quality of life, and utilization of professional help in cancer patients with unexpressed needs.

Methods

We enrolled 449 patients with breast, prostate, and colon cancer at beginning (T0) and end (T1) of a 3‐week inpatient rehabilitation and 3 (T2) and 9 (T3) months after discharge. We explored depression (PHQ‐2), anxiety (GAD‐2), emotional functioning (EORTC QLQ‐C30), fear of progression (FoP‐Q‐SF), and global quality of life (EORTC QLQ‐C30) using structuring equation models. Furthermore, we evaluated self‐reports about expressing needs and utilization of professional help at follow‐up.

Results

Patients with unexpressed needs (24.3%, n = 107) showed decreased mental health compared to other patients (e.g., depression: d T0 = 0.32, d T1‐T3 = 0.39). They showed a significant decline in global quality of life at discharge and follow‐up (d = 0.28). Furthermore, they had a higher need for support (Cramer's V T2 = 0.10, T3 = 0.15), talked less about their needs (Cramer’s V T2 = 0.18), and made less use of different health care services at follow‐up.

Conclusion

Unexpressed needs in cancer patients may be a risk factor for decreased mental health, quality of life, and non‐utilization of professional help in the long term. Further research should clarify causal relationships and focus on this specific group of patients to improve cancer care.