bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of land cover and climate data selection on understanding terrestrial carbon dynamics and the CO2 airborne fraction
Authors: Poulter B. , Frank D. C. , Hodson E. L. , Zimmermann N. E.
Published: February 2011

Abstract. Terrestrial and oceanic carbon cycle processes remove ~ 55% of global carbon emissions, with the remaining 45%, known as the "airborne fraction", accumulating in the atmosphere. The long-term dynamics of the component fluxes contributing to the airborne fraction are challenging to interpret, but important for informing fossil-fuel emission targets and for monitoring the trends of biospheric carbon fluxes. Climate and land-cover forcing data for terrestrial ecosystem models are a largely unexplored source of uncertainty in terms of their contribution to understanding airborne fraction dynamics. Here we present results using a single dynamic global vegetation model forced by an ensemble experiment of climate (CRU, ERA-Interim, NCEP-DOE II), and diagnostic land-cover datasets (GLC2000, GlobCover, MODIS). Forcing uncertainties resulted in a large range of simulated global carbon fluxes, up to 13% for net primary production (52.4 to 60.2 Pg C a−1) and 19% for soil respiration (44.2 to 54.8 Pg C a−1). The sensitivity of contemporary global terrestrial carbon fluxes to climate strongly depends on forcing data (1.2–5.9 Pg C K−1 or 0.5 to 2.7 ppmv CO2 K−1), but weakening carbon sinks in sub-tropical regions and strengthening carbon sinks in northern latitudes are found to be robust. The climate and land-cover combination that best correlate to the inferred carbon sink, and with the lowest residuals, is from observational data (CRU) rather than reanalysis climate data and with land-cover categories that have more stringent criteria for forest cover (MODIS). Since 1998, an increasing positive trend in residual error from bottom-up accounting of global sinks and sources (from 0.03 (1989–2005) to 0.23 Pg C a−1 (1998–2005)) suggests that either modeled drought sensitivity of carbon fluxes is too high, or that the trend toward decreased net land-use fluxes (~ 0.5 Pg C) is overestimated.
The effect of resource history on the functioning of soil microbial communities is maintained across time
Authors: Keiser A. D. , Strickland M. S. , Fierer N. , Bradford M. A.
Published: February 2011

Abstract. Historical resource conditions appear to influence microbial community function. With time, historical influences might diminish as populations respond to the contemporary environment. Alternatively, they may persist given factors such as contrasting genetic potentials for adaptation to a new environment. Using experimental microcosms, we test competing hypotheses that function of distinct soil microbial communities in common environments (H1a) converge or (H1b) remain dissimilar over time. Using a 6 × 2 (soil community inoculum × litter environment) full-factorial design, we compare decomposition rates in experimental microcosms containing grass or hardwood litter environments. After 100 days, communities that develop are inoculated into fresh litters and decomposition followed for another 100 days. We repeat this for a third, 100-day period. In each successive, 100-day period, we find higher decomposition rates (i.e. functioning) suggesting communities function better when they have an experimental history of the contemporary environment. Despite these functional gains, differences in decomposition rates among initially distinct communities persist, supporting the hypothesis that dissimilarity is maintained across time. In contrast to function, community composition is more similar following a common, experimental history. We also find that "specialization" on one experimental environment incurs a cost, with loss of function in the alternate environment. For example, experimental history of a grass-litter environment reduced decomposition when communities were inoculated into a hardwood-litter environment. Our work demonstrates experimentally that despite expectations of fast growth rates, physiological flexibility and rapid evolution, initial functional differences between microbial communities are maintained across time. These findings question whether microbial dynamics can be omitted from models of ecosystem processes if we are to predict reliably global change effects on biogeochemical cycles.
Evolution of extreme Total Water Levels along the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Rasilla Álvarez D. F. , García Codron J. C.
Published: February 2011

Abstract. This paper assesses the evolution of storminess along the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula through the calculation of extreme (1%) Total Water Levels (eTWL) on both observed (tide gauge and buoy data) and hindcasted (SIMAR-44) data. Those events were first identified and then characterized in terms of oceanographic parameters and atmospheric circulation features. Additionally, an analysis of the long-term trends in both types of data was performed. Most of the events correspond to a rough wave climate and moderate storm surges, linked to extratropical disturbances following a northern track. While local atmospheric conditions seem to be evolving towards lesser storminess, their impact has been balanced by the favorable exposure of the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula to the increasing frequency and strength of distant disturbances crossing the North Atlantic. This evolution is also correctly reproduced by the simulated long-term evolution of the forcing component (meteorological sea level residuals and wave run up) of the Total Water Level values calculated from the SIMAR 44 database, since sea level residuals have been experiencing a reduction while waves are arriving with longer periods. Finally, the addition of the rate of relative sea level trend to the temporal evolution of the atmospheric forcing component of the Total Water Level values is enough to simulate more frequent and persistent eTWL.
Topography of Patchy Retinal Whitening during Acute Perfused Retinal Vein Occlusion by Optical Coherence Tomography and Adaptive Optics Fundus Imaging
Authors: Sarda Valerie , Nakashima Kiyoko , Wolff Benjamin , Sahel Jose-Alain , Paques Michel
Published: February 2011

Purpose

During perfused retinal vein occlusions, patchy retinal opacification due to acute neuronal swelling may be present. This may be difficult to document using conventional imaging techniques.

Methods

Three-dimensional topography of focal retinal opacification was documented in a patient with hemiretinal vein occlusion by combining en face adaptive optics (AO) imaging with high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Results

Patchy retinal opacification in the macula was faintly visible by color fundus photography with no angiographic correlation. Adaptive optics and OCT imaging showed that these areas were located in the plexiform layers while the nerve fiber layer remained spared. During follow-up, visual acuity returned to 20/20 with normalization of fundus features and of AO imaging. At last examination, optical coherence tomography showed thinning of the inner nuclear layer in the area previously opacified.

Conclusions

Patchy retinal opacification that may be observed at the acute phase of perfused central retinal vein occlusion corresponds to ischemic opacification of intermediary neurons within the inner nuclear and inner plexiform layers.
Passive green space exposure leading to lower aggression: The mediating role of sense of control
Authors: Liu Jia , Liu Siyi , Sun Xiaomin , Meng Yilin , Yang Zhihui
Published: May 2024

Green spaces, integral to natural environments, have been extensively studied for their positive impact on mental health, yet their influence on social behavior, particularly aggression, is less explored. While prior research has predominantly emphasized the effects of actively engaging with nature, the significant role of passive nature exposure—a more common daily occurrence—has often been overlooked. We conducted two studies to explore the influence of passive green space exposure on aggression and the mediating effect of the sense of control. Study 1 (N = 240) utilized a cross‐sectional survey to assess the relationship between passive green space exposure, sense of control, and aggression. Study 2 (N = 260) employed a single‐factor between‐subjects experimental design to further explore these relationships in a controlled environment. The results from both studies indicated that passive green space exposure is negatively related to aggression, and that this relationship is partially mediated by an increased sense of control. Specifically, passive green space exposure was found to negatively predict aggression by bolstering individuals' sense of control. These findings underscore the potential of enhancing the sense of control through environmental factors like green spaces as an effective strategy to reduce aggression. This study enriches our understanding of the broader impacts of green spaces, extending beyond mental health to include social behaviors. We discussed both the theoretical and practical implications of our findings, highlighting how urban planning and environmental design can incorporate green spaces to foster community well‐being and mitigate aggressive behaviors.
Magnetic resonance image reconstruction based on image decomposition constrained by total variation and tight frame
Authors: Wang Guohe , Zhang Xi , Guo Li
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a commonly used tool in clinical medicine, but it suffers from the disadvantage of slow imaging speed. To address this, we propose a novel MRI reconstruction algorithm based on image decomposition to realize accurate image reconstruction with undersampled k‐space data.

Methods

In our algorithm, the MR images to be recovered are split into cartoon and texture components utilizing image decomposition theory. Different sparse transform constraints are applied to each component based on their morphological structure characteristics. The total variation transform constraint is used for the smooth cartoon component, while the L0 norm constraint of tight frame redundant transform is used for the oscillatory texture component. Finally, an alternating iterative minimization approach is adopted to complete the reconstruction.

Results

Numerous numerical experiments are conducted on several MR images and the results consistently show that, compared with the existing classical compressed sensing algorithm, our algorithm significantly improves the peak signal‐to‐noise ratio of the reconstructed images and preserves more image details.

Conclusions

Our algorithm harnesses the sparse characteristics of different image components to reconstruct MR images accurately with highly undersampled data. It can greatly accelerate MRI speed and be extended to other imaging reconstruction fields.
Training task‐selection skills: The effect of prompts and explicit instruction on transfer
Authors: Pieplenbosch Jane , van den Broek Gesa , Hoogerheide Vincent , van Gog Tamara
Published: May 2024

For effective self‐regulated learning with problem‐solving tasks, students must accurately assess their performance and select a suitable next learning task. However, most students struggle with this. Recent research shows that self‐assessment and task‐selection skills can be trained through video modeling examples (SATS‐training). However, the limited research available suggests that students struggle to transfer trained task‐selection skills to other problem‐solving contexts. We investigated whether guidance in the form of prompts (stating that the task‐selection procedure can be adapted and used) or explicit instruction (on how the procedure can be adapted) would improve task‐selection accuracy on transfer tasks with this guidance available and on later, unguided transfer tasks. Explicit instruction significantly enhanced task‐selection accuracy compared to prompts and a no‐guidance control condition on guided transfer tasks, but not on unguided transfer tasks. Thus, it remains a question how to lastingly improve transfer of task‐selection skills also in the absence of guidance.
AATOD meeting brings for profits and not‐for‐profits together in face of MOTAA
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2024

Not just another meeting, the conference of the American Association for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence (AATOD) held last week in Las Vegas was a coming together of the minds of the only providers in the country who have ever treated patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) with methadone. And it was clearly time for this meeting to be a positive one, focused on the importance of comprehensive care to patients. ADAW has written about the challenge to opioid treatment programs (OTPs) posed by the Modernizing Opioid Treatment Access Act (MOTAA) many times (see https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.34028, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.34003, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.33951), and one key advocacy session on May 21 presented the case very clearly.
Report from Stop Stigma Now's Lubran at AATOD
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2024

Bob Lubran was at AATOD, not as an attendee, but as an exhibitor for Stop Stigma Now. An old friend and colleague, he shared some of his perceptions from the meeting. As the former director of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Office of Pharmacologic Therapies, he has many connections in the OTP world. “I've been very impressed with the people who came by and stopped to chat,” he told ADAW. “There were a lot of new providers from rural areas. Very enthusiastic. Met some recruiters for Acadia – and such a huge organization. Overall, it's been very positive in my view.”
Adenoma detection rate of screening colonoscopy among age 40–75 years: Implications for lowering the age for colorectal cancer screening
Authors: Chang Tsan‐Hsuan , Chong Lee‐Won , Chang Hung‐Chuen , Liu Yu‐Hwa , Sun Cheuk‐Kay , Yang Kou‐Ching , Lin Yu‐Min
Published: May 2024

Incidence of early‐onset colorectal cancer is on the rise, prompting updated international guidelines recommending screening for average‐risk individuals starting at age 45. Adenoma detection rate (ADR) serves as a crucial quality indicator for colonoscopy (CFS), with a current benchmark of 25% for screening CFS starting at age 50. However, the impact of lowering the screening age on ADR remains uncertain. This study aimed to assess the ADR in average‐risk individuals who undergo screening colonoscopy at an age older than 40. Participants who underwent a complete colonoscopy for health examination at a medical center between January 2014 and February 2020 were enrolled in this study. We excluded colonoscopies performed on individuals younger than 40 years of age or older than 75 years of age, as well as those conducted for surveillance purposes. ADR was defined as the percentage of colonoscopies with at least one colorectal adenoma detected. We calculated the ADR for different age groups, including 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, and 55–75, to understand the age‐specific ADR of screening colonoscopy. Additionally, we evaluated the ADR among participants who started screening colonoscopy at ages ≥40, ≥45, and ≥50 to understand the impact of starting age on ADR. A p value <.05, determined by the chi‐square test, was considered significant. Among the 33 073 CFS completed during the study period, 5852 CFS examined in patients aged younger than 40 years, 344 CFS examined in patients aged older than 75, and 6881 CFS with surveillance indication were excluded, leaving 19 996 CFS enrolled for analysis. The mean age of the participants was 53, with 57% being male and 43% being female. The ADR for the age groups of 40–44, 45–49, 50–54, and 55–75 were 28.0% (1058/3778), 31.8% (1191/3741), 35.6% (1387/3891), and 44.2% (3794/8586), respectively, with a statistically significant difference (p < .01). The ADR for age ≥40, ≥45, and ≥50 were 37.2% (7430/19996), 40.1% (6372/15874), and 41.5% (5181/12477), respectively, with a statistically significant difference (p < .01). The findings of our study indicate that there are notable differences in ADR among various age groups. Lowering the screening age might result in a decrease in the overall ADR. However, our results suggest that even if CRC screening begins at age 40 or 45, the current benchmark of 25% ADR for screening colonoscopy may still be maintained. These findings provide valuable insights into the age‐ and gender‐specific prevalence of adenomas in colonoscopy screening and can be used to inform future screening guidelines and recommendations.
Genetically correlated leaf tensile and morphological traits are driven by growing season length in a widespread perennial grass
Authors: Durant P. Camilla , Bhasin Amit , Juenger Thomas E. , Heckman Robert W.
Published: May 2024

Premise

Leaf tensile resistance, a leaf's ability to withstand pulling forces, is an important determinant of plant ecological strategies. One potential driver of leaf tensile resistance is growing season length. When growing seasons are long, strong leaves, which often require more time and resources to construct than weak leaves, may be more advantageous than when growing seasons are short. Growing season length and other ecological conditions may also impact the morphological traits that underlie leaf tensile resistance.

Methods

To understand variation in leaf tensile resistance, we measured size‐dependent leaf strength and size‐independent leaf toughness in diverse genotypes of the widespread perennial grass Panicum virgatum (switchgrass) in a common garden. We then used quantitative genetic approaches to estimate the heritability of leaf tensile resistance and whether there were genetic correlations between leaf tensile resistance and other morphological traits.

Results

Leaf tensile resistance was positively associated with aboveground biomass (a proxy for fitness). Moreover, both measures of leaf tensile resistance exhibited high heritability and were positively genetically correlated with leaf lamina thickness and leaf mass per area (LMA). Leaf tensile resistance also increased with the growing season length in the habitat of origin, and this effect was mediated by both LMA and leaf thickness.

Conclusions

Differences in growing season length may promote selection for different leaf lifespans and may explain existing variation in leaf tensile resistance in P. virgatum. In addition, the high heritability of leaf tensile resistance suggests that P. virgatum will be able to respond to climate change as growing seasons lengthen.
CRISPR/Cas9 mediated validation of spermatogenesis‐related gene, tssk2 as a component of genetic pest management of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Anu Cholenahalli Narayanappa , Ashok Karuppannasamy , Bhargava Chikmagalur Nagaraja , Dhawane Yogi , Manamohan Maligeppagol , Jha Grish Kumar , Asokan Ramasamy
Published: May 2024

Invasive insect pests, currently, pose a serious economic threat to several staple crops all over the world, one such being the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda. It was first observed in Africa since 2016, outside of its natural habitat in the Americas. Subsequently, it invaded several countries in South and South East Asia and also very recently in Australia. In all the newly invaded regions, maize is the principal crop attacked causing a serious economic concern to the poor farmers, particularly in the developing countries. Owing to the innate genetic ability, it defies many of the management options that include insecticides, Bt transgenics, and so forth. This is due to its high mobility, polyphagy and ability for quick development of resistance to several classes of insecticides. At this critical juncture, CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing has shown a lot of promise in developing a novel area‐wide pest management strategy called precision‐guided sterile insect technique (pgSIT). pgSIT was initially demonstrated in Drosophila melanogaster which holds a greater promise for the environmentally friendly management of several globally significant agricultural pests such as S. frugiperda. Therefore, before developing both sgRNA and Cas9 transgenic lines, we have validated the target gene such as tssk2 through a non‐transgenic approach by microinjecting ribo nucleo protein complex (Cas9 protein and tssk2 sgRNA) into G0 eggs of S. frugiperda. In the current investigation, we have obtained five edited males with distinct mutations which were further used for crossing studies to ascertain the effect of tssk2 editing affecting egg hatchability.
Tetraethylammonium Perfluorobutanesulfonate as an Alternative Salt for Electric Double Layer Capacitors
Authors: Gaško Mariana , Mahadev Patil Indrajit , Köps Lukas , Krüger Daniel , Neumann Christof , Turchanin Andrey , Kreth Fabian Alexander , Balducci Andrea
Published: May 2024

The utilization of tetraethylammonium perfluorobutane sulfonate as a promising alternative salt for electrolyte solutions in electrochemical double layer capacitors is introduced in this study. A thorough analysis of the physical and electrochemical characteristics of tetraethylammonium perfluorobutane sulfonate was conducted, including the assessment of its ionic conductivity, viscosity, and thermal behavior, using a 1 M solution in acetonitrile. Comparative assessments were made between the performance of this novel electrolyte and two well‐studied electrolytes: 1 M tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate and 1 M tetraethylammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide in acetonitrile, focusing on electrochemical performance and long‐term stability. Furthermore, an investigation into the impact of tetraethylammonium perfluorobutane sulfonate on the anodic dissolution of aluminum current collectors was conducted. The results highlight the potential of tetraethylammonium perfluorobutane sulfonate as an effective replacement for bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide‐based electrolytes.
Predicting class switch recombination in B‐cells from antibody repertoire data
Authors: Servius Lutecia , Pigoli Davide , Ng Joseph , Fraternali Franca
Published: May 2024

Statistical and machine learning methods have proved useful in many areas of immunology. In this paper, we address for the first time the problem of predicting the occurrence of class switch recombination (CSR) in B‐cells, a problem of interest in understanding antibody response under immunological challenges. We propose a framework to analyze antibody repertoire data, based on clonal (CG) group representation in a way that allows us to predict CSR events using CG level features as input. We assess and compare the performance of several predicting models (logistic regression, LASSO logistic regression, random forest, and support vector machine) in carrying out this task. The proposed approach can obtain an unweighted average recall of with models based on variable region descriptors and measures of CG diversity during an immune challenge and, most notably, before an immune challenge.
Association of pulsatility index with total burden of cerebral small vessel disease and cognitive impairment
Authors: Wu Huijuan , Xu Liaoyang , Zheng Xingyongpei , Gu Caihong , Zhou Xinyu , Sun Yong , Li Xiaomin
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study investigated the correlation between the pulsatility index (PI) of the middle cerebral artery with the total burden of cerebral small vessel disease and cognitive impairment.

Method

Information on patients hospitalized in the Department of Neurology was collected retrospectively. These patients had complete clinical and laboratory data. The middle cerebral artery PI was measured using transcranial Doppler, a Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to assess cognitive function, and the total cerebral small vessel disease burden was assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were grouped according to their scores for total imaging burden of cerebral small vessel disease and cognitive function. Logistic regression analysis assessed the association between the PI, total imaging burden, and cognitive impairment. Spearman analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between the PI and total imaging burden and cognitive impairment, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the predictive value of the PI for cognitive function.

Results

The PI was higher in the cognitive impairment (CI) group than in the no‐CI group. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that increased PI was an independent risk factor for CI (OR = 1.582; 95% CI: 1.043–2.401; p = .031) and total imaging burden (OR = 1.842; 95% CI: 1.274–2.663; p = .001). Spearman analysis found that the PI correlated negatively with the MMSE score (r = −.627, p < .001). ROC curve analysis showed the PI predicted CI with an area under the curve of 0.784. The PI combined with the total imaging burden predicted CI in cerebral small vessel disease with an area under the curve of 0.832.

Conclusion

An increased PI was associated with CI and a high imaging burden in cerebral small vessel disease patients. The PI combined with the total burden score shows a high predictive value for CI.
A Systematic Study of Nonionic Di‐ and Multiborane Catalysts for the Oligomerization and Polymerization of Epoxides
Authors: Haug Iris , Eberhardt Marc , Krappe Udo , Naumann Stefan
Published: May 2024

Borane catalysis has emerged as a powerful technology in epoxide polymerization. Still, the structure‐activity correlations for these catalysts are not fully understood to date, especially regarding compounds with nonionic backbones. Thus, in this work, 13 different borane catalysts of this respective type are described and investigated for their epoxide oligomerization and polymerization performance, using propylene oxide (PO), 1‐butylene oxide (BO) and allyl glycidyl ether (AGE) as monomers. Structurally, special emphasis is put on catalysts with different linker lengths and linker flexibilities as well as the introduction of more than two borane functionalities. Importantly, this screening is conducted both under typical polymerization conditions as well as under the chain transfer agent (CTA)‐rich conditions relevant for large‐scale production. It is found that suitable preorganization of the borane groups, such as present in biphenyl derivatives, offers a simple route to high‐performing catalysts and quantitative monomer conversion of the investigated epoxides. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that a diborane‐catalyzed oligomerization can be kept active over weeks, whereby repeated addition of monomer batches (14 steps) constantly results in full conversion and well‐defined oligoethers, underlining the practical potential of this method. The absence of co‐initiating counter ions is suggested as an inherent advantage of nonionic catalysts.
A Fluorescent Furan‐based Probe with Protected Functional Groups for Highly Selective and Non‐Toxic Imaging of HT‐29 Cancer Cells and 4T1 Tumors
Authors: Naderi Parisa Mehdizadeh , Zargoosh Kiomars , Qandalee Mohammad , Firuzi Omidreza , Behmadi Hossein , Hosseinkhani Saman , Ghafary Soroush Moasses , Durán‐Valle Carlos J. , López‐Coca Ignacio M.
Published: May 2024

Most of the previously reported fluorescent organic probes for cancer cell and tumor imaging have significant limitations including chemical toxicity, structural instability, low Stokes shift value, and the inability for selective accumulations in tumors during in vivo imaging. To overcome the mentioned challenges, we synthesized the fluorescent probes with protected polar functional groups to enhance the non‐toxicity nature and increase the selectivity toward tumors. In addition, the structural rigidity of the fluorescent probes was increased by embedding aromatic rings in the probe structure. This issue enables us to obtain ultrabright cell images due to enhanced fluorescence quantum yield (ΦFL) values. After synthesis and spectral characterizations, the applicability of two furan‐based and imidazole‐based fluorescent probes ( abbreviated as DCPEF and DBPPI, respectively) was investigated for ultrabright in vitro and in vivo imaging of cancer cells. The probe DCPEF shows the ΦFL value of 0.946 and the Stocks shift of 86 nm. In addition, probe DBPPI offers the ΦFL value of 0.400 and a Stocks shift of 150 nm. The MTT colorimetric cytotoxicity assay showed that probe DCPEF has minimal effects against HT‐29 (cancer) and Vero (normal) cells. The probe DCPEF produced ultrabright fluorescence images from HT‐29 cells. In addition, in vivo imaging of cancer cells showed that probe DCPEF selectively accumulates in the 4T1 tumor in mice. The spectral and chemical stability, minimal cytotoxicity, significant Stokes shift, and high degree of selectivity for tumor cells during in vivo imaging make DCPEF an appropriate candidate to be used as a standard probe for cancer cell imaging.
Battery‐free ultra‐low‐power radio‐frequency receiver for mm‐wave applications using 130‐nm CMOS technology with harvested DC supplies
Authors: Mansour Marwa , Mansour Islam
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a battery‐free ultra‐low‐power (ULP), highly integrated, and wide‐bandwidth low‐IF radio‐frequency (RF) receiver designed for millimeter‐wave (mm‐Wave) applications, utilizing 130‐nm CMOS technology. The suggested RF receiver is suitable for K‐band (n258) at 26 GHz, Ka‐band (n261 and n257) at 28 GHz, and the LMDS band at 28 GHz in fifth‐generation applications. The proposed radio receiver consists of a low‐noise driver stage implemented using a complementary current‐reuse common gate with an active shunt feedback configuration and an in‐phase/quadrature‐phase (I/Q) demodulator. The proposed RF receiver employs transformer coupling to isolate the DC path between the transconductance stage (RF stage) and the switching stage (IF stage). The driver stage expands the RF input impedance while maintaining acceptable linearity and gain with ultra‐low DC power dissipation. The DC supplies for the proposed mm‐Wave RF receiver are generated using two novel energy‐harvesting voltage doubler circuits to provide positive and negative voltages. The proposed mm‐Wave radio receiver consumes 0.475 mW from a 1.1 V DC supply and exhibits a power conversion gain (CG) of 6.3 dB, with a 3 dB frequency bandwidth extending from 22 to 32 GHz. The input 1‐dB compression point (P1dB) of the RF receiver is −2.65 dBm, and the input third‐order intercept point (IIP3) is 7.35 dBm. With a sensitivity of −66.5 dBm at a 100 MHz channel bandwidth and a dynamic range of 63.85 dB, the suggested receiver demonstrates notable performance characteristics. The proposed radio receiver boasts an excellent figure of merit (FoM) at 215 dB, surpassing published works by a margin of 8–31 dB. The primary positive supply voltage is derived from a double‐band positive voltage doubler with series resonance feedback and parallel resonance networks, efficiently achieving the desired DC voltage and output current (1.1 V and 450 μA). Meanwhile, the negative gate bias is provided by a negative voltage doubler, ensuring the necessary negative voltage (−0.5 V) without any current conditions.
Multipurpose error calibration of pipeline analog‐to‐digital converters using decision points of the residue curve in sub‐analog‐to‐digital converters
Authors: Ghanbari Kourosh , Farshidi Ebrahim , Sheini Navid Alaei
Published: May 2024

A new mechanism of digital background calibration in pipeline analog‐to‐digital converters (ADCs) is expressed. The presented technique calibrates various errors like capacitor mismatch, finite DC gain of the amplifier, third‐order nonlinearity, and fifth‐order nonlinearity, so it is called multipurpose. In this method, the error coefficients are identified by estimation of the output code of the decision points in the voltage transfer characteristic (VTC) of the pipeline stages. To achieve sufficient decision points in the VTCs of the pipeline stages, one threshold level of one comparator of the sub‐ADC is shifted, and then the digital output is calibrated by capturing the error coefficients. The digital logic of this method is simple and does not require special analog circuits. The introduced calibration mechanism is evaluated for the first five stages of a 12‐bit 100 MS/s pipeline ADC. The required time for the calibration is 1.5 ms. By applying this method, the signal‐to‐noise and distortion ratio (SNDR) and spurious‐free dynamic range (SFDR) in order are enhanced from 46.44 and 50.53 dB to 69.92 and 74.04 dB, respectively.
Addressing Inequality: How to better serve community college students who transfer for bachelor's degrees
Authors: May Rachel
Published: May 2024

Community colleges can offer access to “social mobility” via bachelor's degree “attainment for students and communities who have not had accessible and affordable pathways,” write the authors of two new companion studies, but, they find, these pathways are “ineffective, inequitable, and not improving fast enough.”
How will AI change higher education?
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: May 2024

To me, AI is named Alexa, and she lives in my house. She tells me whether it will rain today, reminds me when to take the trash to the curb, and lets me know when my Amazon packages arrive. She tells me when to take cookies out of the oven and warns me when there is going to be bad weather in my neighborhood.
Loquat and its phytochemical potential: A promising application in food technology
Authors: Kumar Vishal , Gupta Prerna , Kumar Mukul
Published: May 2024

This review study highlights the importance of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) in terms of its nutritional, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical value. The entire plant, including its seeds, leaves, flowers, fruits, and peel, contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as phenolics, carotenoids, triterpenic acids, and organic acids. These compounds exhibit a wide range of beneficial properties such as fighting cancer, reducing inflammation, managing diabetes, combating viruses, preventing mutations, inhibiting nitrosamine formation, killing harmful microorganisms, lowering blood sugar levels, inducing cell death, and protecting the liver. The extraction and separation of such compounds will greatly enhance and expand its potential. Furthermore, the waste generated from the seeds and peel can be effectively used for submerged and solid state biomass production.
Salt substitute recommendations for heart failure patients may influence guideline‐directed medical therapies titration
Authors: Tartière Jean‐Michel , Roubille François , Salvat Muriel , Damy Thibaud , Beauvais Florence , Berthelot Emmanuelle , Lamblin Nicolas , Kesri‐Tartière Lamia
Published: May 2024

Aims

Reducing sodium intake is necessary for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Salt substitutes (saltSubs) have become increasingly popular as recommendations by healthcare professionals (HCPs) as well as options for patients and their caregivers. However, their consumption is generally potassium based and remains poorly evaluated in CHF management. Their impact on guideline‐directed medical therapies (GDMTs) also remains unknown. The primary objective of this study was to provide a description and estimate of HCP recommendations and reported use of saltSubs in France. Secondary objectives were to identify if there was an association between these recommendations by HCPs and the use of GDMTs.

Methods and results

A nationwide, questionnaire‐based, cross‐sectional, epidemiological study was conducted from September 2020 to July 2021. Data collection included baseline characteristics, the use and recommendations of saltSubs, and the use of GDMTs, which included (i) angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitors (ARNis), (ii) mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and/or (iii) beta‐blockers (BBs). In total, 13% of HCPs advised saltSubs and 17% of patients and 22% of caregivers reported their consumption. CHF patients advised to take saltSubs did not differ in terms of left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) <40%, ischaemic origin, and New York Heart Association III–IV class, but were more recently hospitalized for acute HF (P = 0.004). HCPs who recommended saltSubs to patients were more likely to advise an anti‐diabetic diet (P < 0.001), cholesterol‐lowering diet (P < 0.001), and exercise (P = 0.018). In the overall population, ACEi/ARB/ARNi use was less frequent in case of saltSub recommendations (74% vs. 82%, P = 0.012). The concomitant prescription of none, one, two, or three GDMTs was less favourable in case of saltSub recommendations (P = 0.046). There was no significant difference for the presence of MRA (56% vs. 58%) and/or BB (78% vs. 82%). The under‐prescription of ACEi/ARB/ARNi was found when patients had EF < 40% (P = 0.029) and/or EF ≥ 40% (P = 0.043). In the subgroup with left ventricular EF ≥ 40%, we found a higher thiazide use (P = 0.014) and a less frequent use of low EF GDMTs (P = 0.044) in case of being recommended saltSubs.

Conclusions

Beyond the well‐established risk for hyperkalaemia, our preliminary results suggest a potentially negative impact of saltSubs on GDMT use, especially for ACEis/ARBs/ARNis in CHF management. saltSub recommendations and their availability from open sale outlets should be considered to avoid possible misuse or deference from GDMTs in the future. Informed advice to consumers should also be considered from HCPs or pharmacists.
Technical, Economical, and Marketing Analyses of Corotating Dual‐Rotor Wind Turbines
Authors: Erturk Ercan , Bulbul Yasar , Güngör Ayşegül Sağkaya , Karagoz Yasin , Pusat Saban
Published: May 2024

In this study, a comprehensive analysis is done on a dual rotor wind turbine (DRWT) in co‐rotating arrangement. First, a co‐rotating dual rotor is designed and its performance is analyzed by blade element momentum theory simulation. Later, the designed co‐rotating DRWT is manufactured and then tested in the field by mounting the wind turbine on a truck. Running the truck steadily at different speeds while logging the performance parameters of the wind turbine, the power curve of the DRWT is obtained. Then, using the power curve of the co‐rotating DRWT and the actual wind measurement data from Çatalca Istanbul, the annual electricity generation of the designed turbine is calculated. The present techno‐economic analysis states that the co‐rotating DRWTs are more efficient compared to single rotor wind turbines (SRWTs), in accordance with the literature. Analyses show that with DRWT, around 22% higher power generation can be achieved. Additionally, the payback period for DRWT was found to be less than 1 year. The marketing strategy for introducing the product emphasizes identifying and targeting early adopters and influencers within the market. The present techno‐economic analysis states that the co‐rotating DRWTs are more efficient compared to SRWTs, in accordance with the literature.
A comprehensive review on developments and future perspectives of biopolymer‐based materials for energy storage
Authors: Mahajan Priyanka , Sharma Mansi
Published: May 2024

Driven by the escalating environmental impact of synthetic materials, there has been a growing focus on employing eco‐sustainable biomass‐derived biopolymers and native materials as a viable alternative to traditional energy storage applications. Biopolymer‐based energy devices, like batteries, supercapacitors, electrode materials, and ion‐exchange membranes, a novel and eco‐conscious approach, hold great potential for flexible and smart electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices, owing to their affordability, environmental sustainability, and biodegradability. This critical review outlines the sources and properties of biopolymers leading to energy storage and emphasizes their utilization in the energy sector. Despite their inherent constraints, biopolymers can be effectively leveraged when combined with other materials in composites. This collaborative approach not only refines their intrinsic physical attributes but also elevates the electrochemical performance of biologically active molecules. In this regard, bionanocomposites, a class of materials combining biopolymers and nanoparticles, have emerged as a promising greener alternative to conventional petroleum‐based polymers. Their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and antimicrobial properties have promoted their increased commercialization, thus paving the way for a more sustainable future. The review concludes by identifying and effectively addressing the limitations, challenges, and future perspectives of biopolymers in energy storage applications.
Exploring the influence of Ni doping thin films for supercapacitor application
Authors: Ranmale V. B. , Kadam L. D. , Shinde T. J.
Published: May 2024

This study explores the impact of nickel (Ni) doping bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) thin film synthesis by spray pyrolysis method. The structural and morphological study shows that the thin films are slightly amorphous with granular morphology. Investigated the supercapacitive behavior of synthesized material by using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge‐discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The thin films synthesized are capable of storing a 253.31 F/g capacitance at a 10 mV/s scan rate and by introducing nickel into the synthesis process, we obtained 312.12 F/g capacitance at a 10 mV/s scan rate. The material shows good cyclic stability after 91000 cycles. It is also observed that no structural and morphological changes were made by doping Ni into BiFeO3 thin films. The significant improvement in capacitance was displayed by Ni doping into BiFeO3 obtained via spray pyrolysis methods indicating its potential for use in supercapacitor applications.
The translational inhibitor and amnestic agent emetine also suppresses ongoing hippocampal neural activity similarly to other blockers of protein synthesis
Authors: Al‐Smadi S. , Padros A. , Goss G. G. , Dickson C. T.
Published: May 2024

The consolidation of memory is thought to ultimately depend on the synthesis of new proteins, since translational inhibitors such as anisomycin and cycloheximide adversely affect the permanence of long‐term memory. However, when applied directly in brain, these agents also profoundly suppress neural activity to an extent that is directly correlated to the degree of protein synthesis inhibition caused. Given that neural activity itself is likely to help mediate consolidation, this finding is a serious criticism of the strict de novo protein hypothesis of memory. Here, we test the neurophysiological effects of another translational inhibitor, emetine. Unilateral intra‐hippocampal infusion of emetine suppressed ongoing local field and multiunit activity at ipsilateral sites as compared to the contralateral hippocampus in a fashion that was positively correlated to the degree of protein synthesis inhibition as confirmed by autoradiography. This suppression of activity was also specific to the circumscribed brain region in which protein synthesis inhibition took place. These experiments provide further evidence that ongoing protein synthesis is necessary and fundamental for neural function and suggest that the disruption of memory observed in behavioral experiments using translational inhibitors may be due, in large part, to neural suppression.
Hyperbolae
Authors: Killeen Peter R.
Published: May 2024

Hyperbolic relations between independent and dependent variables are ubiquitous in the experimental analysis of behavior, mentioned in over 150 articles in the Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior. There are two principal forms of hyperbolae: The first describes the relation between response rate and reinforcement rate on variable‐interval schedules of reinforcement; it rises asymptotically toward a maximum. The second describes the relation between the current equivalent value of an incentive and its delay or (im)probability; it falls from a maximum toward an asymptote of 0. Where do these come from? What do their parameters mean? How are they related? This article answers the first two questions and addresses the last.
In vivo measurement of strain in the periodontal space of pig (Sus scrofa) incisors using in‐fiber Bragg sensors
Authors: Popowics Tracy E. , Hwang Isabelle , Lu Jason , Nguyen Tammy , Sample Morgan , Sangster Anissa , Tang Derrick , Dennison Christopher R. , Romanyk Dan L. , Rafferty Katherine , Greenlee Geoffrey
Published: May 2024

The incisor teeth in pigs, Sus scrofa, function in association with a disc‐shaped snout to explore the environment for potential food. Understanding how mechanical loading applied to the tooth deforms the periodontal ligament (PDL) is important to determining the role of periodontal mechanoreceptors during food exploration and feeding. The objective of this study was to use fiber Bragg (FBG) sensors to measure strain in vivo within the PDL space of pig incisors. The central mandibular incisors of pigs underwent spring loaded lingual tipping during FBG strain recording within the labial periodontal space. FBG sensors were placed within the periodontal space of the central mandibular incisors of ~2–3‐month‐old farm pigs. The magnitude and orientation of spring loads are expected to mimic incisor contact with food. During incisor tipping with load calibrated springs, FBG strains in vitro (N = 6) and in vivo (N = 6) recorded at comparable load levels overlapped in range (−10–20 με). Linear regressions between peak FBG strains, that is, the highest recorded strain value, and baseline strains, that is, strain without applied spring load, were significant across all in vivo experiments (peak strain at 200 g vs. baseline, p = .04; peak strain at 2000 g vs. baseline p = .03; peak strain at 2000 g vs. 200 g, p = .004). These linear relationships indicate that on a per experiment basis, the maximum measured strain at different spring loads showed predictable differences. A Friedman test of the absolute value of peak strain confirmed the significant increase in strain between baseline, 200 g, and 2000 g spring activation (p = .02). Mainly compressive strains were recorded in the labial PDL space and increases in spring load applied in vivo generated increases in FBG strain measurements. These results demonstrate the capacity for FBG sensors to be used in vivo to assess transmission of occlusal loads through the periodontium. PDL strain is associated with mechanoreceptor stimulation and is expected to affect the functional morphology of the incisors. The overall low levels of strain observed may correspond with the robust functional morphology of pig incisors and the tendency for pigs to encounter diverse foods and substrates during food exploration.
Multifunctional ORF3 protein of hepatitis E virus
Authors: Li Xiaoxuan , Sun Xuwen , Pinpin Ji , Zhao Qin , Sun Yani
Published: May 2024

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen that is transmitted primarily through the fecal‐oral route and can cause acute hepatitis in humans. Since HEV was identified as a zoonotic pathogen, different species of HEV strains have been globally identified from various hosts, leading to an expanding range of hosts. The HEV genome consists of a 5' noncoding region, three open reading frames (ORFs), and a 3' noncoding region. The ORF3 protein is the smallest but has many functions in HEV release and pathogenesis. In this review, we systematically summarize recent progress in understanding the functions of the HEV ORF3 protein in virion release, biogenesis of quasi‐enveloped viruses, antigenicity, and host environmental regulation. This review will help us to understand HEV replication and pathogenesis mechanisms better.