bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The paradox of forbs in grasslands and the legacy of the mammoth steppe
Authors: Bråthen Kari Anne , Pugnaire Francisco I , Bardgett Richard D
Published: September 2021

The grassland biome supports an enormous diversity of life and includes ecosystems used extensively by humans. Although graminoids lend grasslands their characteristic appearance, forbs are largely responsible for their taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity. In terms of abundance, however, forbs often play a subordinate role relative to graminoids. Yet this may be a relatively recent phenomenon; evidence is mounting that forbs comprised a major part of the richness of, and were abundant in, the extensive and highly productive grasslands of the Pleistocene, the so‐called “mammoth steppe”. As a legacy of their past prevalence under intensive grazing by megafaunal herbivores, we hypothesize that forbs were, and still are, dependent on niche construction by large mammalian herbivores. We suggest that the high species richness of forbs in grasslands globally merits greater research and conservation attention, and management actions tailored to sustain their abundance and diversity.
Quality improvement intervention to reduce time to postoperative radiation in head and neck free flap patients
Authors: Voora Rohith S. , Stramiello Joshua A. , Sumner Whitney A. , Finegersh Andrey , Mohammadzadeh Amir , Fouania John , Ramsey Celia , Blumenfeld Liza , Sacco Assuntina G. , Mell Loren K. , Califano Joseph A. , Orosco Ryan K.
Published: September 2021

Background

Best‐practice guidelines for head and neck cancer patients advise postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) initiation within 6 weeks of surgery. We report our institutional experience improving timeliness of adjuvant radiation in free‐flap patients.

Methods

Thirty‐nine patients met inclusion criteria in the 2017–2019 study period. We divided into “Early” (n = 19) and “Late” (n = 20) time‐period groups to compare performance over time. The primary endpoint was time to PORT initiation, with success defined as <6 weeks.

Results

The number of patients achieving timely PORT improved from 10.5% in the Early group to 50.0% in the Late group (p = 0.014). Patients undergoing concurrent adjuvant chemoradiation were more likely to meet the PORT target in the Late group (p = 0.012).

Conclusions

We ascribe this quality improvement in free‐flap patients to increased communication among multidisciplinary care teams, proactive consultation referrals, and a targeted patient‐navigator intervention. Though work is needed to further improve performance, insight gained from our experience may benefit other teams.
Ductular reaction promotes intrahepatic angiogenesis through Slit2–Roundabout 1 signaling
Authors: Coll Mar , Ariño Silvia , Martínez‐Sánchez Celia , Garcia‐Pras Ester , Gallego Javier , Moles Anna , Aguilar‐Bravo Beatriz , Blaya Delia , Vallverdú Julia , Rubio‐Tomás Teresa , Lozano Juan Jose , Pose Elisa , Graupera Isabel , Fernández‐Vidal Andrea , Pol Albert , Bataller Ramón , Geng Jian‐Guo , Ginès Pere , Fernandez Mercedes , Sancho‐Bru Pau
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims

Ductular reaction (DR) expands in chronic liver diseases and correlates with disease severity. Besides its potential role in liver regeneration, DR plays a role in the wound‐healing response of the liver, promoting periductular fibrosis and inflammatory cell recruitment. However, there is no information regarding its role in intrahepatic angiogenesis. In the current study we investigated the potential contribution of DR cells to hepatic vascular remodeling during chronic liver disease.

Approach and Results

In mouse models of liver injury, DR cells express genes involved in angiogenesis. Among angiogenesis‐related genes, the expression of Slit2 and its receptor Roundabout 1 (Robo1) was localized in DR cells and neoangiogenic vessels, respectively. The angiogenic role of the Slit2–Robo1 pathway in chronic liver disease was confirmed in ROBO1/2−/+ mice treated with 3,5‐diethoxycarbonyl‐1,4‐dihydrocollidine, which displayed reduced intrahepatic neovascular density compared to wild‐type mice. However, ROBO1/2 deficiency did not affect angiogenesis in partial hepatectomy. In patients with advanced alcohol‐associated disease, angiogenesis was associated with DR, and up‐regulation of SLIT2–ROBO1 correlated with DR and disease severity. In vitro, human liver‐derived organoids produced SLIT2 and induced tube formation of endothelial cells.

Conclusions

Overall, our data indicate that DR expansion promotes angiogenesis through the Slit2–Robo1 pathway and recognize DR cells as key players in the liver wound‐healing response.
Recurrent urinary retention due to clots caused by a congenital renal arteriovenous malformation that forms a complex vascular network: Report of two cases
Authors: Ishii Makoto , Nakata Wataru , Horibe Yuki , Tsujimura Go , Tsujimoto Yuichi , Nin Mikio , Tsujihata Masao
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Repeated urinary retention due to clots caused by congenital renal arteriovenous malformation is rare.

Case presentation

A 40‐year‐old woman (case 1) and a 66‐year‐old man (case 2) experienced recurrent urinary retention due to clots. Neither patient had a history of renal trauma nor was taking any medications. Contrast‐enhanced abdominal computed tomography revealed a large hematoma in the renal pelvis and ureter with no masses, stones, or vascular lesions and only dilated blood vessels in the arterial phase in case 1. Angiography of the kidney in both patients revealed an arteriovenous malformation, and embolization of the arteries feeding the arteriovenous malformation was performed. Soon after embolization, hematuria disappeared completely with no recurrence for 5 years in case 1 and 2 years in case 2.

Conclusion

Congenital renal arteriovenous malformation should be considered as a cause of recurrent clot retention, and angiographic embolization of the feeding arteries can be an effective treatment.
Hearing and Balance Exceed Initial Bone Mineral Density in Predicting Incident Fractures: A 25‐Year Prospective Observational Study in Menopausal Women With Osteoporosis
Authors: Dotevall Annika , Krantz Emily , Barrenäs Marie‐Louise , Landin‐Wilhelmsen Kerstin
Published: September 2021

Hearing and balance deteriorate, and fracture incidence increases with age, especially in women. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether impaired hearing and body balance are stronger predictors of fractures than bone mass. Between 1995 and 1997, 80 women, aged 50 to 70 years, with primary osteoporosis, taking menopausal hormone therapy, mainly for menopausal symptoms, participated in a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study of treatment with growth hormone versus placebo. All women received calcium 750 mg and vitamin D 400 U daily. They were then examined yearly until 2007 and followed up by registers until 2020. Hearing was assessed by audiometry. Body balance and fine motor function were tested according to the Bruininks‐Oseretsky test. Bone properties were measured with DXA. Data on fractures were derived from the Gothenburg Hospital register. Over the 25‐year follow‐up, 50 women (63%) sustained 104 fractures, most often related to accidental falls. Thoracic and lumbar spine fractures were most common (36%). Other fractures occurred in the pelvis (14%), humerus (14%), hip (11%), and wrist (10%). Hearing impairment at baseline, measured as pure tone average‐high (p = 0.007), pure tone average‐mid (p = 0.003), and speech‐recognition score (p = 0.025), was associated with a subsequent first fracture, as were worse body balance (p = 0.004), upper limb coordination (p = 0.044), and higher running‐speed agility (p = 0.012). After adjustment for age and BMD, pure tone average‐high (p = 0.036), pure tone average‐mid (p = 0.028), and body balance (p = 0.039) were still significantly associated with incident fractures. Bone mineral content, BMD, and treatment at baseline were not associated with subsequent fracture. In conclusion, hearing and body balance at baseline exceeded initial BMD in predicting incident fractures in osteoporotic women regardless of treatment during 25‐year follow‐up. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The SFRP1 Inhibitor WAY-316606 Attenuates Osteoclastogenesis Through Dual Modulation of Canonical Wnt Signaling
Authors: Ma Qingliang , Wang Shiyu , Xie Ziang , Shen Yang , Zheng Bingjie , Jiang Chao , Yuan Putao , Yu Congcong , Li Liangping , Zhao Xiangde , Chen Junxin , Qin An , Fan Shunwu , Jie Zhiwei
Published: September 2021

Osteoporosis, a noteworthy age-related disease induced by imbalanced osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis, is a serious economic burden on both individuals and society. Small molecule drugs with dual effects on both bone resorption and mineralization are pressingly needed. Secreted frizzled-related protein 1 (SFRP1), a well-known extracellular repressor of canonical Wnt signaling, has been reported to regulate osteogenesis. Global SFRP1 knockout mice show significantly elevated bone mass. Although osteoclasts (OCs) express and secrete SFRP1, the role of SFRP1 produced by OCs in osteoclastogenesis and osteoporosis remains unclear. In this work, the levels of SFRP1 were found to be increased in patients with osteoporosis compared with healthy controls. Pharmacological inhibition of SFRP1 by WAY-316606 (WAY)- attenuated osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption in vitro. The expressions of OC-specific genes were suppressed by the SFRP1 inhibitor, WAY. Mechanistically, both extracellular and intracellular SFRP1 could block activation of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway, and WAY reverse the silent status of canonical Wnt through dual effects, leading to osteoclastogenesis inhibition and osteogenesis promotion. Severe osteopenia was observed in the ovariectomized (OVX) mouse model, and WAY treatment effectively improved the OVX-induced osteoporosis. In summary, this work found that SFRP1 supports OC differentiation and function, which could be attenuated by WAY through dual modulation of canonical Wnt signaling, suggesting its therapeutic potential. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Multiscale characterization of pathological bone tissue
Authors: Eren E. Deniz , Nijhuis Wouter H. , van der Weel Freek , Dede Eren Aysegul , Ansari Sana , Bomans Paul H.H. , Friedrich Heiner , Sakkers Ralph J. , Weinans Harrie , de With Gijsbertus
Published: September 2021

Bone is a complex natural material with a complex hierarchical multiscale organization, crucial to perform its functions. Ultrastructural analysis of bone is crucial for our understanding of cell to cell communication, the healthy or pathological composition of bone tissue, and its three‐dimensional (3D) organization. A variety of techniques has been used to analyze bone tissue. This article describes a combined approach of optical, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopy for the ultrastructural analysis of bone from the nanoscale to the macroscale, as illustrated by two pathological bone tissues. By following a top‐down approach to investigate the multiscale organization of pathological bones, quantitative estimates were made in terms of calcium content, nearest neighbor distances of osteocytes, canaliculi diameter, ordering, and D‐spacing of the collagen fibrils, and the orientation of intrafibrillar minerals which enable us to observe the fine structural details. We identify and discuss a series of two‐dimensional (2D) and 3D imaging techniques that can be used to characterize bone tissue. By doing so we demonstrate that, while 2D imaging techniques provide comparable information from pathological bone tissues, significantly different structural details are observed upon analyzing the pathological bone tissues in 3D. Finally, particular attention is paid to sample preparation for and quantitative processing of data from electron microscopic analysis.
Application of the analytical quality by design principles to the development of a qualitative surface‐enhanced Raman scattering method: A proof of concept
Authors: Deidda Riccardo , Avohou Hermane T. , Dumont Elodie , Hubert Cédric , Hubert Philippe , De Bleye Charlotte , Ziemons Éric
Published: September 2021

Analytical quality by design (AQbD) is a systematic approach that allows developing analytical methods in a more science‐based way, due to the higher quality of information collected during the development process. However, its application remains limited to the development of separation methods. (i.e., liquid chromatography and capillary electrophoresis). Its application to spectroscopic techniques remains underexplored, despite the potential benefits. The aim of this work was to demonstrate the application of the AQbD principles to surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) method development, detailing each step characterizing this approach. First, crystal violet (CV) was chosen as a model compound and the analytical target profile was defined. Risk assessment was performed to individuate the critical method parameters. The intensity of the CV band at 1175 cm−1 was selected as critical method attribute to be modeled and maximized. A screening study was conducted to study 11 aggregation agents (AAs) at different concentration levels (range 0.010–1 M) and in two solvent media (aqueous and methanolic). The two AAs exhibiting the strongest signal, one for each medium, were retained. Once these parameters were fixed, an I‐optimal design was applied to optimize the entire analysis process. Here, the volumes of nanoparticle suspension and AA solution added to the SERS samples were simultaneously varied. Two method operable design regions, one for each medium, were computed using a Bayesian design space approach. The latter enabled evaluating the failure risk associated to each experimental condition explored and choosing those that best fit the analytical purpose in the experimental domain.
The effect of tandem coupling of NicoShell and TeicoShell columns in sub/supercritical fluid chromatography on enantioresolution
Authors: Folprechtová Denisa , Tesařová Eva , Kalíková Květa
Published: September 2021

The coupling of columns in sub/supercritical fluid chromatography presents a great opportunity for influencing the separation efficiency and extending the selectivity of the separation system. Combinations of different types of chiral stationary phases could positively affect the enantioresolution if single ones are complementary to each other. In this work, two superficially porous particle (2.7 μm) macrocyclic glycopeptide‐based columns, namely TeicoShell and NicoShell, were serially coupled and tested in sub/supercritical fluid chromatography for the first time. The influence of the column arrangement on the enantioseparation of structurally diverse biologically active compounds was examined. The obtained results showed how the column order crucially affected the enantioresolution of compounds tested, but the retention was negligibly affected in most cases. We also demonstrated that single TeicoShell and NicoShell columns are very promising towards the development of highly efficient and fast/ultrafast sub/supercritical fluid chromatography methods for structurally different chiral compounds. The optimized methods for sub‐minute enantioselective separation of certain biologically important compounds were proposed.
A chiral metal‐organic framework core‐shell microspheres composite for high‐performance liquid chromatography enantioseparation
Authors: Chen Ji‐Kai , Xu Na‐Yan , Guo Ping , Wang Bang‐Jin , Zhang Jun‐Hui , Xie Sheng‐Ming , Yuan Li‐Ming
Published: September 2021

The unique features of uniform and adjustable cavities, abundant chiral active sites, and high enantioselectivity make chiral metal‐organic frameworks popular as an emerging candidate for enantioselective separation. However, the wide particle size distribution and irregular shape of as‐synthesized metal–organic frameworks result in low column efficiency, undesired chromatographic peak shape, and high column backpressure of such metal–organic frameworks packed columns. Herein, we report the fabrication of chiral core‐shell microspheres [Cu2(d‐Cam)2(4,4′‐bpy)]n@SiO2 composite for high‐performance liquid chromatography enantioseparation to overcome the above‐mentioned problems. The [Cu2(d‐Cam)2(4,4′‐bpy)]n@SiO2 packed column gave high‐resolution separation of racemates under low column backpressure (10‐22 bar), indicating its synergistic effect of the good column packing property of the SiO2 microspheres and the chiral recognition ability of [Cu2(d‐Cam)2(4,4′‐bpy)]n crystals. Thirteen kinds of chiral compounds including alcohols, amines, ketones, epoxides, and organic bases were well separated with good peak shapes and high column efficiency (18200 plates/m for 1‐(9‐anthryl)‐2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol) on the [Cu2(d‐Cam)2(4,4′‐bpy)]n@SiO2 packed column. Among them, seven pairs of enantiomers achieved baseline separation and the resolution value for 1‐(9‐anthryl)‐2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol reached 11.22. Some effects such as column temperature, and analytes mass on the enantioseparations have been investigated. In addition, the [Cu2(d‐Cam)2(4,4′‐bpy)]n@SiO2 packed column exhibited good stability and repeatability for the separation of chiral compounds. The relative standard deviations for five replicate separations of 1‐phenylethanol were less than 1.0, 1.5, 3.0, and 2.0% for the retention time, peak area, number of theoretical plates, and resolution, respectively. The research results demonstrated the development of chiral metal–organic frameworks core‐shell microspheres composite provide a promising platform for their practical application in chiral separation fields.
Long‐term outcomes of 2‐day training on planning and writing research on publication output of medical professionals: 11‐year cohort study
Authors: Šimić Josip , Marušić Matko , Gelo Marijana , Šaravanja Nikolina , Mišak Aleksandra , Marušić Ana
Published: September 2021

We evaluated long‐term publication outcomes of a workshop on planning and writing a research article attended by medical professionals. A prospective cohort study included 243 participants (68 men and 175 women) attending 18‐h workshops on research planning and writing and 243 controls (78 men and 165 women) identified by participants as their professional peers. A total of 17 workshops was organized by the editors of the Croatian Medical Journal, Zagreb, Croatia, from 2003 to 2011. We measured the number of publications, citations and H‐indices in the Web of Science and Scopus databases from the time of each workshop to the end of 2017. While workshop participants and their controls had similar publication output before the workshops, workshop participants published significantly more scientific articles and had higher citation rates and H‐index after the workshops. For the subgroup of authors who were all followed up for 11 years (n = 398), the increase in the number of articles became apparent in the third post‐workshop year, and levelled out after the eighth post‐workshop year. Workshop attendance proved to be a significant predictor of post‐workshop publishing even when controlled for age, gender, and previous publications (OR = 3.547, CI = 2.320–5.423, p < 0.001), indicating that short‐term workshops on planning and writing research may be an important tool to increase long‐term scientific productivity of medical professionals.
Correlation of Thermoelectric Performance, Domain Morphology and Doping Level in PEDOT:PSS Thin Films Post‐Treated with Ionic Liquids
Authors: Oechsle Anna Lena , Heger Julian E. , Li Nian , Yin Shanshan , Bernstorff Sigrid , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: September 2021

Ionic liquid (IL) post‐treatment of poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) thin films with ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium dicyanamide (EMIM DCA), allyl‐3‐methylimidazolium dicyanamide (AMIM DCA), and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetracyanoborate (EMIM TCB) is compared. Doping level modifications of PEDOT are characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy and directly correlate with the observed Seebeck coefficient enhancement. With conductive atomic force microscopy (c‐AFM) the authors investigate changes in the topographic‐current features of the PEDOT:PSS thin film surface due to IL treatment. Grazing incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS) demonstrates the morphological rearrangement towards an optimized PEDOT domain distribution upon IL post‐treatment, directly facilitating the interconductivity and causing an increased film conductivity. Based on these improvements in Seebeck coefficient and conductivity, the power factor is increased up to 236 µW m−1K−2. Subsequently, a model is developed indicating that ILs, which contain small, sterically unhindered ions with a strong localized charge, appear beneficial to boost the thermoelectric performance of post‐treated PEDOT:PSS films.
New various multisoliton kink‐type solutions of the (1 + 1)‐dimensional Mikhailov–Novikov–Wang equation
Authors: Saha Ray Santanu , Singh Shailendra
Published: September 2021

In this article, a (1 + 1)‐dimensional Mikhailov–Novikov–Wang equation is examined by using simplified Hirota's method. The kink‐type multisoliton solutions are obtained successfully for the equation. The solutions obtained are displayed graphically in order to demonstrate the properties.
Triple‐band ultra‐thin linear to circular polarization converter based on transmission metasurface
Authors: Yuan Lili , Hou Lei , Yang Zhengyi , Zhang Zheng‐ping
Published: September 2021

In this article, a triple‐band linear‐to‐circular transmissive polarization converter based on metasurface is proposed, which can transform a linearly polarized incident wave into right‐hand circularly polarized wave and left‐hand circularly polarized wave in three nonadjacent frequency bands. Since the proposed polarization converter has a novel structure with only one metallic layer, the proposed converter is ultra‐thin. After simulating, the results demonstrate that the axial ratio of the proposed transmissive circularly converter is below 3‐dB in 7.3–10.4 GHz, 11.9–18.7 GHz and 21.6–29.6 GHz. Additionally, the physical mechanism of multiple resonances is discussed based on equivalent circuit model. Moreover, a prototype is fabricated and measured; the experimental and simulation results are in good agreement. This polarization converter can be employed to manipulate the polarization state of signals in microwave communication.
A batch delivery mechanism of network update in software‐defined wide area networks
Authors: Zhang RongBo , Li Xin , Niu Jibin , Wang Yinqing
Published: September 2021

In software‐defined network (SDN) architecture, the network decisions are all located on a logically centralized controller. Based on installing rules into switches of the data plane, the controller directly initiates and schedules a network update and which will cause a delay in the completion time of a network update. The situation is aggravated in wide area networks (WANs) further due to the switches deployed in a wide geographical area bring long propagation delay. On account of adopting the in‐band transmission style to deliver control messages instead of dedicated control channels is economics in WANs, the retransmission of control messages causing by congestion of the data channels is another unbearable delay source. This paper describes a new control information batch delivery mechanism (CIBDM) of network updates to relieve the delay and enhance the reliability of control message transmission in SD‐WANs. The characteristics of the novel scheme include the following: (1) every control information message may contain multiple update information of different forwarding devices, and each update information consists of a set of update instructions with dependencies; (2) by using a similar mechanism of onion routing, in the delivering process of control messages, it attains the security for each control rule of the specified devices; (3) with delegating the update consistency coordination into the data plane, it improves network update on the completion time. A comprehensive evaluation runs on 10 network topologies selected from all over the world. Experimental results show that CIBDM achieves rapid network updates with reliable message transmission.
Associations of dietary inflammatory potential with postpartum weight change and retention: Results from a cohort study
Authors: Qin Yuting , Chen Ying , Zhang Zhiwei , Huang Shaoming , Jiao Changya , Zhang Zheqing , Mao Limei
Published: September 2021

Objective

This study examined the associations of Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) with weight outcomes within 1 year post partum.

Methods

This analysis included women who participated in a cohort study in South China (n = 468). The assessments included maternal height, weight, and dietary intake. The latter variable was based on three consecutive 24‐hour food records collected at 2 weeks and 1 year after childbirth and was used to calculate the energy‐adjusted DII (EDII) scores during and after puerperium, respectively. A general linear regression was performed to examine the relationships between the EDII scores and postpartum weight outcomes after adjusting for confounders.

Results

In an analysis adjusted for confounders, the EDII during puerperium was positively associated with the weight change from 3 to 42 days (β: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.11‐0.70). The EDII after puerperium was positively correlated with the weight changes from 42 days to 1 year (β: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.02‐1.02) and from 3 days to 1 year (β: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.13‐1.14), as well as with the postpartum weight retention at 1 year after childbirth (β: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.29‐1.22).

Conclusions

The results indicate that a diet with a high EDII score might minimize postpartum weight loss and promote higher postpartum weight retention.
Assessing physical access to healthy food across United Kingdom: A systematic review of measures and findings
Authors: Titis Elzbieta , Procter Rob , Walasek Lukasz
Published: September 2021

Background

Existing research suggests that physical access to food can affect diet quality and thus obesity rates. When defining retail food environment (RFE) quantitatively, there is a little agreement on how to measure “lack of healthy food” and what parameters to use, resulting in a heterogeneity of study designs and outcome measures. In turn, this leads to a conflicting evidence base being one of the many barriers to using evidence in policy‐making.

Aims

This systematic review aimed to identify and describe methods used to assess food accessibility in the United Kingdom (UK) to overcome heterogeneity by providing a classification of measures.

Materials & Methods

The literature search included electronic and manual searches of peer‐reviewed literature and was restricted to studies published in English between January 2010 and March 2021. A total of 9365 articles were assessed for eligibility, of which 44 articles were included in the review. All included studies were analysed with regards to their main characteristics (e.g., associations between variables of interest, setting, sample, design, etc.) and definition of RFE and its metrics. When defining these metrics, the present review distinguishes between a point of origin (centroid, address) from which distance was calculated, summary statistic of accessibility (proximity, buffer, Kernel), and definition of distance (Euclidean, network distance). Trends, gaps and limitations are identified and recommendations made for food accessibility research in UK.

Results

Multiple theoretical and methodological constructs are currently used, mostly quantifying distance by means of Euclidean and ring‐buffer distance, using both proximity‐ and density‐based approaches, and ranging from absolute to relative measures. The association between RFE and diet and health in rural areas, as well as a spatiotemporal domain of food access, remains largely unaccounted.

Discussion

Evidence suggests that the duration of exposure may bear a greater importance than the level of exposure and that density‐based measures may better capture RFE when compared with proximity‐based measures, however, using more complex measures not necessarily produce better results. To move the field forward, studies have called for a greater focus on causality, individual access and the use of various measures, neighbourhood definitions and potential confounders to capture different aspects and dimensions of the RFE, which requires using univariate measures of accessibility and considering the overall context in terms of varying types of neighbourhoods.

Conclusion

In order to render ongoing heterogeneity in measuring RFE, researchers should prioritise measures that may provide a more accurate and realistic account of people’s lives and follow an intuitive approach based on convergence of results until consensus could be reached on using some useful standards.
LC–MS metabolomics analysis of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni leaves cultivated in Malaysia in relation to different developmental stages
Authors: Lee Soo Yee , Shaari Khozirah
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Stevia is known for its sweet taste, attributed to the presence of steviol glycosides. Although reports on the dynamic changes of steviol glycosides during development of stevia are available, the data are mainly focused on stevioside and rebaudioside A. Information concerning the comprehensive metabolite profile of stevia in relation to different developmental stages is still lacking.

Objective

This study investigated the metabolite changes along the developmental stages of a local stevia cultivar.

Methodology

Stevia leaves were harvested at 4 different developmental stages (early vegetative, late vegetative, budding, and flowering). Samples were then subjected to LC–MS metabolomics analysis to determine the metabolite variations.

Results

A total of 55 metabolites, comprising phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids were identified by MS/MS analysis of the stevia leaf extracts, revealing a metabolite profile which was comparatively similar with those of cultivars grown in other countries. PLS‐DA differentiated the early vegetative stage stevia leaf samples from those of the later stages by higher content of phenolic acids. The leaf metabolomes of the later 3 stages (late vegetative, budding, and flowering) were collectively richer in flavonoids. Meanwhile, the content of steviol glycosides is highest during the late vegetative and budding stages.

Conclusion

The present study provided, for the first time, a general overview of the metabolite variations with regard to the different developmental stages of stevia. The information may facilitate decision making of suitable harvesting times for higher yields of steviol glycosides or a more balanced metabolite profile in terms of pharmacologically useful metabolites.
Elucidating the impact of side chain dispersity on the assembly of bottlebrush polymers at the air‐water interface
Authors: Ogbonna Nduka D. , Dearman Michael , Bharti Bhuvnesh , Peters Andrew J. , Lawrence Jimmy
Published: September 2021

The synthesis of bottlebrush polymers with discrete side chains, their surface pressure isotherm measurements, and thin film molecular dynamics simulations are reported. Our results show that monolayers of bottlebrushes with discrete side chains achieve higher packing densities and exhibit previously unknown, distinct phase transitions that are unseen in their disperse counterparts. The combination of experimental findings and simulation results show that shape‐defined bottlebrush polymers can advance structure–property relationship studies of branched polymers and the theoretical descriptions of polymer monolayer self‐assembly.
Pyrotinibin vitrometabolite profiling via rat, dog and human hepatocytes using liquid chromatography–quadrupole/orbitrap mass spectrometry
Authors: Su Guosheng , Qin Lihua , Su Xiaoye , Tao Chuanmin
Published: September 2021

Rationale

Pyrotinib is an irreversible EGFR/HER2 inhibitor that has shown antitumor activity and tolerance in the treatment of breast cancer. Studies focused on its metabolic pathways and major metabolites are insufficient. In the evaluation of drug safety and therapeutic use, metabolite characterization is critical. The metabolism of pyrotinibin vitrowas studied utilizing rat, dog and human hepatocytes in this study.

Methods

Pyrotinib (10 μM) was incubated with hepatocytes in Williams' E medium. The metabolites were examined and profiled using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole/orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The metabolite structures were deduced by comparing their precise molecular weights, fragment ions and retention times with those of the parent drug.

Results

A total of 16 metabolites, including 6 novel ones, were discovered and structurally described under the present conditions. Oxidation, demethylation, dehydrogenation,O‐dealkylation and glutathione (GSH) conjugation were all involved in the metabolism of pyrotinib in hepatocytes. The most predominant metabolic route was identified as GSH conjugation (M5).

Conclusions

This study generated valuable metabolite profiles of pyrotinib in several species, which will aid in the understanding of the drug's disposition in various species and in evaluating the contribution of metabolites to overall effectiveness and toxicity of pyrotinib.
Neural‐network‐based adaptive finite‐time output constraint control for rigid spacecrafts
Authors: Xie Shuzong , Tao Meiling , Chen Qiang , Tao Liang
Published: September 2021

This article proposes a neural‐network‐based adaptive finite‐time output constraint control scheme for attitude stabilization of rigid spacecrafts. First, a novel singularity‐free terminal sliding mode variable is constructed and an auxiliary function is developed in the controller design to avoid the singularity problem. Then, an adaptive neural control law is designed to approximate the lumped uncertainty of spacecraft system including inertia uncertainties and external disturbances. Furthermore, a novel finite‐time prescribed performance function is constructed for characterizing the convergence rate and steady state of the spacecraft attitude, such that the attitude can be maintained within a prescribed small region in finite time. Finally, the finite‐time stability of the whole closed‐loop system is analyzed by rigorous theoretical proofs, and comparative simulations are given to show the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed scheme.
Model based systems engineering—A text mining based structured comprehensive overview
Authors: Akundi Aditya , Mondragon Oscar
Published: September 2021

An observed increase in systems scale and complexity has led to a significant momentum in exploring, identifying, and adopting model based systems engineering (MBSE) tools and techniques amongst research communities and industry practitioners. Several attempts to transform systems design and engineering practices through the use of MBSE in academia and industry has led to a considerable increase in the number of articles published containing the keyword “MBSE.” This growth serves as the motivation in this paper to explore the MBSE landscape with the help of text mining techniques to identify the most often used key terms, tools, and languages, in the context of research in MBSE and the thematic aspects defining the use of MBSE by researchers and practitioners. The objective of this paper is to provide a structured comprehensive overview of research contributions across the MBSE landscape by employing text mining techniques for: (a) identifying the concepts and methodologies inferred upon in relation to MBSE, and (b) classifying the literature published to identify commonalities across academic researchers and practitioners using MBSE tools and methods. For this purpose, the abstracts of 2380 relevant articles published in the period of the last two decades from five different databases are mined. It is found that the terms “SysML,” “Cyber Physical Systems,” and “Production” are the most used terms among researchers across the MBSE landscape with SysML being the most widely used modeling language. Further, six major thematic topics are identified that classify articles from over the last two decades with an increasing interest observed in the use of MBSE to support manufacturing and production engineering activities, especially in the cyber physical systems domain. The contributions of this paper provide a leeway on using text mining techniques to understand the research directions that are currently of interest in the field of MBSE and thereby identify potential future research directions.
Molecular evidence of zoonotic Babesia species, other than B. microti, in ixodid ticks collected from small mammals in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim Tae Yun , Kim Seong Yoon , Kim Tae‐Kyu , Lee Hee IL , Cho Shin‐Hyeong , Lee Wook‐Gyo , Kim Hyunwoo
Published: September 2021

The occurrence of tick‐borne infectious diseases, including zoonotic babesiosis, has become a serious concern in recent years. In this study, we detected Babesia spp. using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the 18S rRNA of the parasites isolated from ixodid ticks collected from small mammals in the Republic of Korea (ROK). Sequence analysis of the PCR amplicon revealed the presence of B. duncani, B. venatorum, B. capreoli/divergens, and, the most prevalent, B. microti in the ticks. The molecular phylogenetic analysis showed that the four species‐specific18S rRNA sequences clustered in four distinct clades. This is the first study to provide molecular evidence for the presence of zoonotic Babesia spp. other than B. microti in ticks in the ROK.
The Impact of Father’s Health on Reproductive and Infant Health and Development
Authors: Kotelchuck Milton
Published: September 2021

The importance of father’s health and health behaviors during the perinatal period is an under-appreciated, but critical, topic for enhancing reproductive and infant health and development, and ultimately men’s own lifetime health. This chapter brings together the existing scattered reproductive fatherhood health literature and articulates a new conceptual framework that identifies eight direct and indirect pathways of potential paternal impact. Three pathways reflect pre-conception to conception influences; paternal planned and wanted pregnancies (family planning); paternal biologic and genetic contributions; and paternal epigenetic contributions. Three pathways reflect father-mother perinatal interactions: paternal reproductive health practices that may alter their partner’s health behaviors and self-care practices; paternal reproductive biologic and social health that may alter their partner’s reproductive health biology; and paternal support for maternal delivery and post-partum care. And two pathways reflect systemic influences: paternal mental health influences; and paternal contributions to the family’s social determinants of health. This chapter pushes back the time frame for the father’s developmental importance for his child into the antenatal period, if not earlier; it encourages more gender equitable parental roles and opportunities; and it provides a stronger scientific knowledge base to support new fatherhood programs, policies and research that encourages father’s more active, healthier and earlier reproductive health involvement.
Nonlinear dynamics of flux compactification
Authors: Corman Maxence , East William E. , Johnson Matthew C.
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We study the nonlinear evolution of unstable flux compactifications, applying numerical relativity techniques to solve the Einstein equations in D dimensions coupled to a q-form field and positive cosmological constant. We show that initially homogeneous flux compactifications are unstable to dynamically forming warped compactifications. In some cases, we find that the warping process can serve as a toy-model of slow-roll inflation, while in other instances, we find solutions that eventually evolve to a singular state. Analogous to dynamical black hole horizons, we use the geometric properties of marginally trapped surfaces to characterize the lower dimensional vacua in the inhomogeneous and dynamical settings we consider. We find that lower-dimensional vacua with a lower expansion rate are dynamically favoured, and in some cases find spacetimes that undergo a period of accelerated expansion followed by contraction.
Radiative decays of heavy-light mesons and the $$ {f}_{H,{H}^{\ast },{H}_1}^{(T)} $$ decay constants
Authors: Pullin Ben , Zwicky Roman
Published: September 2021

Abstract

The on-shell matrix elements, or couplings $$ {g}_{H{H}^{\ast}\left({H}_1\right)\upgamma} $$

g

H

H
∗

H
1

γ

, describing the $$ B{(D)}_q^{\ast } $$
B

D

q
∗

→ B(D)qγ and B1q → Bqγ (q = u, d, s) radiative decays, are determined from light-cone sum rules at next-to-leading order for the first time. Two different interpolating operators are used for the vector meson, providing additional robustness to our results. For the D*-meson, where some rates are experimentally known, agreement is found. The couplings are of additional interest as they govern the lowest pole residue in the B(D) → γ form factors which in turn are connected to QED-corrections in leptonic decays B(D) → ℓ$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

. Since the couplings and residues are related by the decay constants $$ {f}_{H^{\ast}\left({H}_1\right)} $$

f

H
∗

H
1

and $$ {f}_{H^{\ast}\left({H}_1\right)}^T $$

f

H
∗

H
1

T

, we determine them at next-leading order as a by-product. The quantities $$ \left\{{f}_{H^{\ast}}^T,{f}_{H_1}^T\right\} $$

f

H
∗

T

f

H
1

T

have not previously been subjected to a QCD sum rule determination. All results are compared with the existing experimental and theoretical literature.
Inclusive production of heavy quarkonia in pNRQCD
Authors: Brambilla Nora , Chung Hee Sok , Vairo Antonio
Published: September 2021

Abstract

We develop a formalism for computing inclusive production cross sections of heavy quarkonia based on the nonrelativistic QCD and the potential nonrelativistic QCD effective field theories. Our formalism applies to strongly coupled quarkonia, which include excited charmonium and bottomonium states. Analogously to heavy quarkonium decay processes, we express nonrelativistic QCD long-distance matrix elements in terms of quarkonium wavefunctions at the origin and universal gluonic correlators. Our expressions for the long-distance matrix elements are valid up to corrections of order $$ 1/{N}_c^2 $$
1
/

N
c
2

. These expressions enhance the predictive power of the nonrelativistic effective field theory approach to inclusive production processes by reducing the number of nonperturbative unknowns, and make possible first-principle determinations of long-distance matrix elements once the gluonic correlators are known. Based on this formalism, we compute the production cross sections of P-wave charmonia and bottomonia at the LHC, and find good agreement with measurements.
Four Solutions for Fractional p-Laplacian Equations with Asymmetric Reactions
Authors: Iannizzotto Antonio , Livrea Roberto
Published: September 2021

We consider a Dirichlet type problem for a nonlinear, nonlocal equation driven by the degenerate fractional p-Laplacian, whose reaction combines a sublinear term depending on a positive parameter and an asymmetric perturbation (superlinear at positive infinity, at most linear at negative infinity). By means of critical point theory and Morse theory, we prove that, for small enough values of the parameter, such problem admits at least four nontrivial solutions: two positive, one negative, and one nodal. As a tool, we prove a Brezis-Oswald type comparison result.
Evaluation of subcooled MQL in cBN hard turning of powder-based Cr-Mo-V tool steel using simulations and experiments
Authors: Laakso Sampsa V.A. , Mallipeddi Dinesh , Krajnik Peter
Published: September 2021

Metal cutting fluids for improved cooling and lubrication are an environmental risk and a health risk for workers. Minimizing water consumption in industry is also a goal for a more sustainable production. Therefore, metal cutting emulsions that contain hazardous additives and consume considerable amounts of water are being replaced with more sustainable metal cutting fluids and delivery systems, like vegetable oils that are delivered in small aerosol droplets, i.e., via minimum quantity lubrication (MQL). Since the volume of the cutting fluid in MQL is small, the cooling capacity of MQL is not optimal. In order to improve the cooling capacity of the MQL, the spray can be subcooled using liquid nitrogen. This paper investigates subcooled MQL with machining simulations and experiments. The simulations provide complementary information to the experiments, which would be otherwise difficult to obtain, e.g., thermal behavior in the tool-chip contact and residual strains on the workpiece surface. The cBN hard turning simulations and experiments are done for powder-based Cr-Mo-V tool steel, Uddeholm Vanadis 8 using MQL subcooled to −10 °C and regular MQL at room temperature. The cutting forces and tool wear are measured from the experiments that are used as the calibration factor for the simulations. After calibration, the simulations are used to evaluate the thermal effects of the subcooled MQL, and the surface residual strains on the workpiece. The simulations are in good agreement with the experiments in terms of chip morphology and cutting forces. The cutting experiments and simulations show that there is only a small difference between the subcooled MQL and regular MQL regarding the wear behavior, cutting forces, or process temperatures. The simulations predict substantial residual plastic strain on the workpiece surface after machining. The surface deformations are shown to have significant effect on the simulated cutting forces after the initial tool pass, an outcome that has major implications for inverse material modeling.