bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spring phenology outweighed climate change in determining autumn phenology on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Peng Jie , Wu Chaoyang , Wang Xiaoyue , Lu Linlin 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAs the third pole of the Earth, the Tibetan Plateau (TP) is highly sensitive to climate change. Phenological changes in spring (i.e., the start of the growing season, SOS) over the TP are of much debate, while our understanding on the variation of autumn phenology (i.e., the end of the growing season, EOS) is still lacking. Given the significance of tracing the latest variation of EOS induced by the ongoing global change, we used the currently longest time series (1982–2018) of the normalized difference vegetation index of the Long Term Data Record from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR LTDR NDVI) and investigated the responses of EOS to biological and climatic factors. We found that the EOS showed an insignificantly delayed trend at an average rate of 0.14 days·decade−1 on the TP. This variation was found for all vegetation types except for alpine sparse vegetation. We further showed that spring SOS had the largest contribution to the interannual variations in EOS, where 46.5% of the vegetated areas showed significantly positive correlations between SOS and EOS (p < .05). Temperature (26.5%) and precipitation (18.8%) also had significant positive impacts on EOS, while the contribution of radiation was negative (11.3%). These correlations were regulated by local hydrothermal conditions, especially for precipitation gradients. Using the longest satellite data currently available, with the state‐of‐art data processing, we demonstrated a weakly delaying trend of EOS and the controlling role of spring phenology on the interannual variability of EOS, which is of great significance to improve our comprehension of the interactions between vegetation dynamics and climate change in the future.
LncRNA UCA1 negatively regulates NF‐kB activity in psoriatic keratinocytes through the miR125a‐A20 axis
Authors: Ma Xiao‐Lei , Wen Guang‐Dong , Yu Cong , Zhao Zheng , Gao Na , Liu Zheng‐Yi 
Published: February 2021

AbstractPsoriasis is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin diseases that affects approximately 3% of the world's population. Hyper proliferation, infiltration of inflammatory cells and aberrant differentiation of keratinocytes are the three most important characteristics of psoriasis. Previous reports showed that NF‐κBis the crucial mediator linking psoriatic keratinocytes and immune cell states through its effects on chemokine and cytokine production. To identify the role of NF‐κB in psoriasis, we conducted ELISA assay to detect the activity of NF‐κB in lesional skin and nonlesional skin of patients with psoriasis. Mounting evidence suggests that the interaction between long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs plays important role in the regulation of the initiation and development of various diseases. In this article, we identified that lncRNA UCA1 was down‐regulated in lesional skin of patients with psoriasis. Further studies showed that lncRNA UCA1 could promote the expression of A20 by inhibitingmiR125a, and up‐regulated A20 decreased the activity of NF‐κB through its ubiquitin editing function. Taken together, we identified and demonstrated that lncRNA UCA1 negatively regulated NF‐κB activity in psoriasis through the miR125a‐A20 axis.
Improved grounded coplanar waveguide‐to‐multilayer substrate integrated waveguide transition for efficient feeding of an antipodal Vivaldi antenna for imaging applications
Authors: Manzoor Zahra , Al Qaseer A. Mohammad Tayeb , Donnell Kristen M. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis paper presents a novel transition junction between a grounded coplanar waveguide (GCPW) and a multilayer substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) that is intended as a feed for an SIW antipodal Vivaldi antenna. Compared to other similar transitions, this transition has better matching and lower insertion loss. More specifically, the junction between GCPW and multilayer SIW is designed to improve matching between the two‐layer feed line and the multilayer SIW, thereby reducing unwanted radiation from the transition and improving the radiation pattern of the SIW antipodal Vivaldi antenna. These improvements are illustrated through simulation and measurement of a 34.5–37.5 GHz antipodal Vivaldi antenna that is fed by a SIW feed connected to a GCPW via the improved junction.
One‐pot Suzuki Coupling‐Knoevenagel Condensation Tandem Reaction Catalyzed by a Recyclable Magnetic Bifunctional Catalyst
Authors: Yuan Xiaofeng , Wang Jinyuan , Wan Zijuan , Zhang Qiang , Luo Jun 
Published: February 2021

AbstractA novel magnetic nanoparticle‐supported bifunctional catalyst NH−Pd(0)@MNP was prepared and its activity was evaluated in one‐pot Suzuki coupling‐Knoevenagel condensation tandem reaction. A series of biaryl derivatives were synthesized via sequential Suzuki coupling‐Knoevenagel condensation in ethanol/water medium under phosphine‐free conditions. Meanwhile, the catalyst could be easily separated by an external magnetic field, and could be reused several times without remarkable loss of catalytic activity.
Poly(methacrylic acid)‐Stabilized Silver Nanoclusters as Colorimetric Sensors for the Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Ruangchaithaweesuk Songtham , Srirattanasakunsuk Pattraporn , Poomuang Chutima , Kanokworrakarn Amornrat , Tuntulani Thawatchai 
Published: February 2021

AbstractA simple, rapid, and sensitive colorimetric assay for ascorbic acid (AA) was developed based on poly(methacrylic acid)‐stabilized silver nanoclusters (PMAA‐AgNCs). The AgNCs were prepared via a single‐step synthesis exploiting PMAA as both a reducing agent and a stabilizer. The sensing capability of this method is based on the color change associated with the growth in size of AgNCs, which turn into nanoparticles, resulting from the reduction of free Ag+ present in AgNCs solution to Ag0 by AA. In the presence of AA, an apparent surface plasmon resonance absorption peak of the silver nanoparticles was observed at 430 nm, and its intensity increased linearly with AA concentration, so that a solution color change could be observed with the naked eye. The proposed method exhibited a linear working concentration range of 0.25–100 μM and a detection limit of 95 nM. The sensor was employed to determine AA concentration in fruit juice and vitamin C tablet samples, affording results of high accuracy.
Binder‐Free Air Electrodes for Rechargeable Zinc‐Air Batteries: Recent Progress and Future Perspectives
Authors: Yan Xiaoxiao , Ha Yuan , Wu Renbing 
Published: February 2021

AbstractDesigning an efficient air electrode is of great significance for the performance of rechargeable zinc (Zn)‐air batteries. However, the most widely used approach to fabricate an air electrode involves polymeric binders, which may increase the interface resistance and block electrocatalytic active sites, thus deteriorating the performance of the battery. Therefore, binder‐free air electrodes have attracted more and more research interests in recent years. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in designing and fabricating binder‐free air electrodes for electrically rechargeable Zn‐air batteries. Beginning with the fundamentals of Zn‐air batteries and recently reported bifunctional active catalysts, self‐supported air electrodes for liquid‐state and flexible solid‐state Zn‐air batteries are then discussed in detail. Finally, the conclusion and the challenges faced for binder‐free air electrodes in Zn‐air batteries are also highlighted.
Physical Disability and Masculinity: Hegemony and Exclusion
Authors: Swartz Leslie , Mapumulo Bongani , Rohleder Poul 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIn this chapter, we will explore the intersections of disability and masculinity. We will look at how disability influences how men are viewed by others, and how men with disabilities view themselves as masculine and as sexual beings. We also look at the influence of culture on masculinity in the South African context. We draw on existing research knowledge, as well as the pictures and personal stories of some of the male participants in our research project.
New closed-loop insulin systems
Authors: Boughton Charlotte K. , Hovorka Roman 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAdvances in diabetes technologies have enabled the development of automated closed-loop insulin delivery systems. Several hybrid closed-loop systems have been commercialised, reflecting rapid transition of this evolving technology from research into clinical practice, where it is gradually transforming the management of type 1 diabetes in children and adults. In this review we consider the supporting evidence in terms of glucose control and quality of life for presently available closed-loop systems and those in development, including dual-hormone closed-loop systems. We also comment on alternative ‘do-it-yourself’ closed-loop systems. We remark on issues associated with clinical adoption of these approaches, including training provision, and consider limitations of presently available closed-loop systems and areas for future enhancements to further improve outcomes and reduce the burden of diabetes management.
Graphical abstract
General Versus Neuraxial Anesthesia for Appendectomy: A Multicenter International Study
Authors: El Moheb Mohamad , Han Kelsey , Breen Kerry , El Hechi Majed , Jia Zhenyi , Mokhtari Ava , Kongkaewpaisan Napaporn , Kongwibulwut Manasnun , Rodriguez Gabriel , Ortega Camilo , Qin Huanlong , Yang Jun , Gao Renyuan , Wang Zhiguo , Gao Zhiguang , Prichayudh Supparerk , van der Wilden Gwendolyn M. , Santin Stephanie , Ribeiro Marcelo A. F. , Noppakunsomboom Napakadol , Sakran Joseph V. , Joseph Bellal , Alami Ramzi , Kaafarani Haytham M. A. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundIn resource‐limited countries, open appendectomy is still performed under general anesthesia (GA) or neuraxial anesthesia (NA). We sought to compare the postoperative outcomes of appendectomy under NA versus GA.MethodsWe conducted a post hoc analysis of the International Patterns of Opioid Prescribing (iPOP) multicenter study. All patients ≥ 16 years‐old who underwent an open appendectomy between October 2016 and March 2017 in one of the 14 participating hospitals were included. Patients were stratified into two groups: NA—defined as spinal or epidural—and GA. All‐cause morbidity, hospital length of stay (LOS), and pain severity were assessed using univariate analysis followed by multivariable logistic regression adjusting for the following preoperative characteristics: age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking, history of opioid use, emergency status, and country.ResultsA total of 655 patients were included, 353 of which were in the NA group and 302 in the GA group. The countries operating under NA were Colombia (39%), Thailand (31%), China (23%), and Brazil (7%). Overall, NA patients were younger (mean age (SD): 34.5 (14.4) vs. 40.7 (17.9), p‐value < 0.001) and had a lower BMI (mean (SD): 23.5 (3.8) vs. 24.3 (5.2), p‐value = 0.040) than GA patients. On multivariable analysis, NA was independently associated with less postoperative complications (OR, 95% CI: 0.30 [0.10–0.94]) and shorter hospital LOS (LOS > 3 days, OR, 95% CI: 0.47 [0.32–0.68]) compared to GA. There was no difference in postoperative pain severity between the two techniques.ConclusionsOpen appendectomy performed under NA is associated with improved outcomes compared to that performed under GA. Further randomized controlled studies should examine the safety and value of NA in lower abdominal surgery.
Tropical land-use change alters trait-based community assembly rules for dung beetles and birds
Authors: Edwards Felicity A. , Edwards David P. , Hamer Keith C. , Fayle Tom M. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractTropical rainforest disturbance and conversion are critical drivers of biodiversity loss. A key knowledge gap is understanding the impacts of habitat modification on mechanisms of community assembly, which are predicted to respond differently between taxa and across spatial scales. We use a null model approach to detect trait assembly of species at local- and landscape-scales, and then subdivide communities with different habitat associations and foraging guilds to investigate whether the detection of assembly mechanisms varies between groups. We focus on two indicator taxa, dung beetles and birds, across a disturbance gradient of primary rainforest, selectively logged rainforest, and oil palm plantations in Borneo, Southeast Asia. Random community assembly was predominant for dung beetles across habitats, whereas trait convergence, indicative of environmental filtering, occurred across the disturbance gradient for birds. Assembly patterns at the two spatial scales were similar. Subdividing for habitat association and foraging guild revealed patterns hidden when focusing on the overall community. Dung beetle forest specialists and habitat generalists showed opposing assembly mechanisms in primary forest, community assembly of habitat generalists for both taxa differed with disturbance intensity, and insectivorous birds strongly influenced overall community assembly relative to other guilds. Our study reveals the sensitivity of community assembly mechanisms to anthropogenic disturbance via a shift in the relative contribution of stochastic and deterministic processes. This highlights the need for greater understanding of how habitat modification alters species interactions and the importance of incorporating species’ traits within assessments.
The DOCK protein family in vascular development and disease
Authors: Benson Clare E. , Southgate Laura 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe vascular network is established and maintained through the processes of vasculogenesis and angiogenesis, which are tightly regulated during embryonic and postnatal life. The formation of a functional vasculature requires critical cellular mechanisms, such as cell migration, proliferation and adhesion, which are dependent on the activity of small Rho GTPases, controlled in part by the dedicator of cytokinesis (DOCK) protein family. Whilst the majority of DOCK proteins are associated with neuronal development, a growing body of evidence has indicated that members of the DOCK family may have key functions in the control of vasculogenic and angiogenic processes. This is supported by the involvement of several angiogenic signalling pathways, including chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), in the regulation of specific DOCK proteins. This review summarises recent progress in understanding the respective roles of DOCK family proteins during vascular development. We focus on existing in vivo and in vitro models and known human disease phenotypes and highlight potential mechanisms of DOCK protein dysfunction in the pathogenesis of vascular disease.
The colloidal structure of a cellulose fiber
Authors: Gubitosi Marta , Asaadi Shirin , Sixta Herbert , Olsson Ulf 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
We present a small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) study of the colloidal structure of regenerated cellulose fibers, air-gap spun from an ionic liquid solution. Based on the data, and a different interpretation of the anisotropic SAXS pattern, we propose a slightly different colloidal structure of the fibers, than what is commonly assumed for regenerated cellulose fibers. Fibers with two different degrees of orientation, as produced by different draw ratios, DR = 2 and 15, respectively, are analyzed. The 2D SAXS pattern is highly anisotropic with striking cross-like pattern, having scattering predominantly perpendicular and parallel to the fiber axis. This cross-like pattern suggest a colloidal structure with oriented crystalline lamellae of ca. 10 nm thickness, embedded within a continuous matrix of amorphous cellulose. The lamellae are oriented with their normal parallel with the fiber axis. Complementary wide angle X-ray diffraction data confirm that the lamellae normal direction corresponds to the cellulose chain direction (c-direction) in the monoclinic cellulose crystal (Cellulose II).

Graphic abstract
Factors Associated with Support for Adolescent Access to Contraception Among Mexican Catholic Parents
Authors: Küng Stephanie A. , Saavedra-Avendano Biani , Vélez Evelyn Aldaz , Piñeros María Consuelo Mejía , Metcalfe Gillian M. Fawcett , Darney Blair G. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractWe used a nationally representative survey of 2186 Mexican Catholic parents to assess two outcomes: support for adolescent access to modern contraception and whether adolescents unaccompanied by an adult should have access to contraceptive methods. A majority (85%) of Mexican Catholic parents support adolescent access to modern contraceptive methods, but there was less support (28%) for access to contraception unaccompanied. Further, our results show strong support (92%) for sex education in schools. Parents who believe that good Catholics can use contraception had higher odds of support for adolescent access and unaccompanied access to modern contraception. Mexican Catholic parents support adolescent access to modern contraception, but support for unaccompanied access to contraception is lower. This may reflect an interest in being involved, and not necessarily opposition to contraceptive use. Measures of Catholicism that focus on behaviors may better explain opinions about adolescent access to contraception.
Variable Smoothing for Weakly Convex Composite Functions
Authors: Böhm Axel , Wright Stephen J. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractWe study minimization of a structured objective function, being the sum of a smooth function and a composition of a weakly convex function with a linear operator. Applications include image reconstruction problems with regularizers that introduce less bias than the standard convex regularizers. We develop a variable smoothing algorithm, based on the Moreau envelope with a decreasing sequence of smoothing parameters, and prove a complexity of$${\mathcal {O}}(\epsilon ^{-3})$$O(ϵ-3)to achieve an$$\epsilon $$ϵ-approximate solution. This bound interpolates between the$${\mathcal {O}}(\epsilon ^{-2})$$O(ϵ-2)bound for the smooth case and the$${\mathcal {O}}(\epsilon ^{-4})$$O(ϵ-4)bound for the subgradient method. Our complexity bound is in line with other works that deal with structured nonsmoothness of weakly convex functions.
‘The moral irrelevance of moral coercion’
Authors: Frowe Helen 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAn agent A morally coerces another agent, B, when A manipulates non-epistemological facts in order that B’s moral commitments enjoin B to do what A wants B to do, and B is motivated by these commitments. It is widely argued that forced choices arising from moral coercion are morally distinct from forced choices arising from moral duress or happenstance. On these accounts, the fact of being coerced bears on what an agent may do, the voluntariness of her actions, and/or her accountability for any harms that result from her actions (where accountability includes liability to defensive harm, punishment, blame and compensation). This paper does not provide an account of the wrongness of moral coercion. Rather, I argue that, whatever the correct account of its wrongness, the mere fact of being coerced has no bearing on what the agent may do, on the voluntariness of her action, or her accountability for any resultant harm, compared to otherwise identical cases arising from duress and happenstance.
Using structural equation modeling to investigate change and response shift in patient-reported outcomes: practical considerations and recommendations
Authors: Verdam M. G. E. , Oort F. J. , Sprangers M. A. G. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are of increasing importance for health-care evaluations. However, the interpretation of change in PROs may be obfuscated due to changes in the meaning of the self-evaluation, i.e., response shift. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is the most widely used statistical approach for the investigation of response shift. Yet, non-technical descriptions of SEM for response shift investigation are lacking. Moreover, application of SEM is not straightforward and requires sequential decision-making practices that have not received much attention in the literature.

Aims
To stimulate appropriate applications and interpretations of SEM for the investigation of response shift, the current paper aims to (1) provide an accessible description of the SEM operationalizations of change that are relevant for response shift investigation; (2) discuss practical considerations in applying SEM; and (3) provide guidelines and recommendations for researchers who want to use SEM for the investigation and interpretation of change and response shift in PROs.

Conclusion
Appropriate applications and interpretations of SEM for the detection of response shift will help to improve our understanding of response shift phenomena and thus change in PROs. Better understanding of patients’ perceived health trajectories will ultimately help to adopt more effective treatments and thus enhance patients’ wellbeing.
Skill and strategic control
Authors: Fridland Ellen 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis paper provides an account of the strategic control involved in skilled action. When I discuss strategic control, I have in mind the practical goals, plans, and strategies that skilled agents use in order to specify, structure, and organize their skilled actions, which they have learned through practice. The idea is that skilled agents are better than novices not only at implementing the intentions that they have but also at forming the right intentions. More specifically, skilled agents are able formulate and modify, adjust and adapt their practical intentions in ways that are appropriate, effective, and flexible given their overall goals. Further, to specify the kind of action plans that are involved in strategic control, I’ll rely on empirical evidence concerning mental practice and mental imagery from sports psychology as well as evidence highlighting the systematic differences in the cognitive representations of skills between experts and non-experts. I’ll claim that, together, this evidence suggests that the intentions that structure skilled actions are practical and not theoretical, that is, that they are perceptual and motor and not abstract, amodal, or linguistic. Importantly, despite their grounded nature, these plans are still personal-level, deliberate, rational states. That is, the practical intentions used to specify and structure skilled actions are best conceived of as higher-order, motor-modal structures, which can be manipulated and used by the agent for the purpose of reasoning, deliberation, decision-making and, of course, the actual online structuring and organizing of action.