bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Afforestation vegetation uses water from very deep soil layers in the semi‐arid Loess Plateau
Authors: Wu Yuanzhi , Jia Xiaoxu , An Juan , Huang Laiming , Wang Lizhi , Shao Ming'an
Published: July 2023

Investigating the availability of water in very deep soil layers for vegetation is important for assessing the eco‐hydrological effects of the thick loess soil and optimizing soil water management and vegetation restoration initiatives. However, the proportion of soil water sourced from the soil layer deeper than 300 cm by typical afforestation species on the Loess Plateau, along with its seasonal variations, remains unclear. In this study, we examined the composition of the water sources used by two typical afforestation plant species (Caragana korshinskii and Medicago sativa) from soil depths of up to 10 m during the growing season, using isotopic analysis. The results showed that soil desiccation occurred in the soil layers of 260–1000 cm and 260–700 cm at the upper and lower slope positions, respectively, for both species plots. Relative stability of the isotopic values in >260 cm soil layers explained a piston flow occurred in these layers. The contribution proportion of soil water in 260–1000 cm was at 41.7% ± 9.0% and 51.3% ± 8.8% for C. korshinskii on upper and lower slope, respectively and was at 67.6% ± 6.7% and 73.7% ± 7.0% for M. sativa on upper and lower slope, respectively. The serious soil desiccation was induced by the dependence on very deep soil water and the slow recharge with the piston flow. Meanwhile, C. korshinskii converted the main water source between 0–260 cm and 260–1000 cm in different seasons. In contrast, M. sativa used water mainly from soil layers deeper than 260 cm in June and increased the utilization proportion of deeper water sources in July and September. The persistent dependence on very deep soil water for M. sativa, induced a deeper desiccation depth as compared to C. korshinskii. Thus, thinning to the optimal leaf area index and converting to natural grassland were recommended for C. korshinskii and M. sativa plots, respectively to restore the depleted soil water and to promote water cycle.
Maternal diet and interactions with nutritional evaluation during pregnancy
Authors: Miele Maria J. , Souza Renato T. , Vieira Matias C. , Pacagnella Rodolfo C. , Cecatti José G.
Published: July 2023

This narrative review aims to describe the knowledge regarding nutritional evaluation and monitoring in pregnant women. We discuss care provided by non‐specialists in nutrition, regarding dietary information and risks during pregnancy, from a theoretical or conceptual viewpoint. A narrative review was conducted following a literature search when scientific databases were investigated, including SciELO, LILACS, Medline, PubMed, theses, government reports, books, and chapters in books. Finally, the material was fully read, categorized, and critically analyzed. National and international protocols of prenatal nutritional care were included and discussed. Different protocols describe the complexity of evaluating and monitoring nutrition among pregnant women during the prenatal period according to each country. The understanding of social conditions and eating habits has an important role in providing nutritional advice during pregnancy. The lack of dietitians in care overwhelms the healthcare workers and characterizes a missed opportunity. Therefore, it is important to consider rapid support tools that can track adverse nutritional status, and ways to recommend a diet that meets eating habit dynamics, according to the reality of each public health system.
The effect of instructional methods on dental students’ performance in a preclinical endodontic course: A comparative ambispective cohort study
Authors: Alghofaily Maha , Al‐Saud Loulwa M. , Hamadah Lubna E. , Alkahtany Mazen F. , AlSaud Aljohara , AlFraih Jood
Published: July 2023

Objective

The aim of this ambispective cohort study was to examine the effect of instructional methods on dental students’ performance in a preclinical endodontic course. Two cohorts of undergraduate students were included. The pre‐pandemic (retrospective) cohort, which had been taught via traditional instruction (live lecture and live demonstration), and the pandemic (prospective) cohort group, which had been taught via a blended learning approach (online/video recorded lecture and video demonstration, combined with practical training in the simulation laboratory).

Methods

A total of 263 dental students’ competencies and written exam results were reviewed, with 137 students from the traditional and 126 from the blended learning groups. Students’ performances in the competency practical and written exams for both groups were compared. Additionally, a post‐course survey was designed to explore the students’ perceptions of blended learning and was sent to the blended learning cohort.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference between both groups in students’ weekly practical project scores. The average score for females was significantly higher than that of males. However, their practical competency exam scores were comparable. On the other hand, the written exam scores were significantly higher in the blended than in the traditional group, with females demonstrating significantly higher written exam scores compared to males (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Blended learning is an effective teaching method for preclinical endodontic courses. It could be more useful than traditional learning methods for the course's theoretical content. Additionally, the students preferred to continue learning using this model.
Assessment of dental student education and preparedness in periodontics in two different models: Discipline‐based and general practice‐based learning
Authors: Hachem Lea El , Singh Brij B , English Dana K. , Parma Rita
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To compare dental students’ preparedness in clinical periodontal education following their participation in a discipline‐based predoctoral periodontics clinic with dental students that received a general practice‐based periodontal education.

Methods

114 third‐year dental students and 112 fourth‐year dental students at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio, were emailed an online survey consisting of questions on their proficiency and confidence levels in diagnosing periodontal diseases and conditions, treatment planning, performing non‐surgical periodontal treatment, identifying the need for referral, and their perceived impediments on their clinical periodontics education.

Results

Approximately 97% of third‐year dental students that participated in discipline‐based predoctoral periodontics agree that they are overall confident in providing excellent periodontal care to their patients, and 91% of these students feel that their participation in the predoctoral periodontics clinic has enhanced their knowledge in periodontics as well as their confidence level when providing periodontal patient care. While 95% of fourth‐year dental students agree that they feel confident in providing excellent periodontal care to their patients, only 83% felt that level of confidence during their third‐year in dental school, and 77% believe that given the option to participate in the pre‐doctoral periodontics clinic, their periodontal education would have been strengthened.

Conclusions

Our results show that the integration of a discipline based predoctoral periodontics clinic has benefited the dental students and boosted their knowledge and confidence in diagnosing and treating periodontal patients. This model can be improved by addressing space and time limitations.
Differentiation of the metabolic profile of actinobacteria isolated from the soil of the caatinga biome by paper spray mass spectrometry
Authors: Medeiros Talita C. T. , Dabija Laurentiu G. , Parasecolo Leonardo , Melo Itamar S. , Moraes Luiz Alberto B. , Ifa Demian R.
Published: July 2023

Paper spray mass spectrometry (PS‐MS) is an ambient ionization technique that allows for rapid and direct mass spectrometry analysis for a wide range of chemical compounds due to its portability, little to no sample preparation, and cost‐effective materials. As applications with this technique continue to expand, the identification and discrimination of bacteria at the strain level remain a promising avenue for researchers. Although studies in the past demonstrated the applicability of PS‐MS to discriminate bacteria at the strain level, no one has reported the strain‐level differentiation of actinobacteria without using solvent for PS‐MS. Hence, this study demonstrates that optimization of PS‐MS permits the investigation and differentiation of the metabolic profiles of actinobacteria without the need for solvents, diminishing the potential for sample contamination and consequently increasing the versatility of this technique. In doing so, strains of actinobacteria (CAAT P5–21, CAAT P5–16, CAAT 8–25, CAAT P8–92, and CAAT P11–13) were grown and transferred to produce a crude growth medium. The supernatant was used for the PS‐MS analyses using a Thermo Scientific LTQ mass spectrometer. Multivariate statistical analysis, including principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchal cluster analysis (HCA), was employed to chemically distinguish the strains of bacteria. As a result, each strain of actinobacteria could be visually differentiated based on their metabolic profile. These findings demonstrate the practicability of using a liquid medium as an alternative to many other organic solvents when analyzing bacteria, making PS‐MS a crucial addition to a microbiologist's research toolkit.
A Novel Technology for Resolution of CEUS Imaging Problems in Patients With High BMI and Fatty Liver
Authors: Merrill Christina , Samuel Anna , Gupta Saransh , Wilson Stephanie R.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

In high‐BMI patients with and without fatty liver, we evaluate performance of a commercially available specially designed ultrasound probe (SDP) for scanning at depth. Greyscale and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) capability of SDP for parenchymal assessment and liver mass characterization, emphasizing HCC, is compared with standard curvilinear probes.

Methods

This retrospective study included 60 patients. Fifty‐five with measured BMI included 46/55 (84%) overweight or obese, and 9/55(16%) in the normal range with severe fatty liver. Fifty‐six patients with focal liver abnormality included 37 with a mass and 19 with post‐ablative treatment site. Masses included 23 confirmed malignancies, 15 HCC, 4 ICC, and 4 metastases. SDP followed suboptimal ultrasound using a standard probe. Images with varying fat content were compared for depth of penetration on greyscale and ability of CEUS to diagnose tumors.

Results

SDP showed statistically significant improvement P = <.05 in CEUS penetration for all degrees of fatty liver (mild, moderate, and severe). In malignant tumors, SDP improved detection of lesion washout in the portal venous/late phase (PVP/LP) at depth >10 cm, and in all malignant masses (P < .05).

Fifteen confirmed deep HCC showed arterial phase hyperenhancement on standard probe in 10/15 (67%) and 15/15 (100%) on SDP. PVP/LP washout on standard probe was shown in 4/15 (26%) and on SDP, 14/15, (93%). Therefore, 93% of LR‐5 tumors were diagnosed with SDP. Removing necessity for biopsy.

Conclusions

Metabolic syndrome and obesity challenge ultrasound, especially CEUS. SDP overcame limitations of standard probes for CEUS penetration especially in fatty liver. SDP was optimal for the liver mass characterization by detecting washout.
Utility of Machine Learning Algorithms in Predicting Preoperative Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients With Rectal Cancer Based on Three‐Dimensional Endorectal Ultrasound and Clinical and Laboratory Data
Authors: Huang Weiqin , Lin Ruoxuan , Ke Xiaohui , Ni Shixiong , Zhang Zhen , Tang Lina
Published: July 2023

Background

We aimed to investigate the value of a machine learning (ML) algorithm in the preoperative prediction of lymph node metastasis in patients with rectal cancer.

Methods

Based on the histopathological results, 126 rectal cancer patients were divided into two groups: lymph node metastasis‐positive and metastasis‐negative groups. We collected clinical and laboratory data, three‐dimensional endorectal ultrasound (3D‐ERUS) findings, and parameters of the tumor for between‐group comparisons. We constructed a clinical prediction model based on the ML algorithm, which demonstrated the best diagnostic performance. Finally, we analyzed the diagnostic results and processes of the ML model.

Results

Between the two groups, there were significant differences in serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels, tumor length, tumor breadth, circumferential extent of the tumor, resistance index (RI), and ultrasound T‐stage (P < 0.05). The extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model had the best comprehensive diagnostic performance for predicting lymph node metastasis in patients with rectal cancer. Compared with experienced radiologists, the XGBoost model showed significantly higher diagnostic value in predicting lymph node metastasis; the area under curve (AUC) value of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of the XGBoost model and experienced radiologists was 0.82 and 0.60, respectively.

Conclusions

Preoperative predictive utility in lymph node metastasis was demonstrated by the XGBoost model based on the 3D‐ERUS finding and related clinical information. This could be useful in guiding clinical decisions on the selection of different treatment strategies.
Ultrathin, Wide‐Angle, and High‐Resolution Meta‐Imaging System via Rear‐Position Wavevector Filter
Authors: Xie Ting , Zhang Fei , Pu Mingbo , Bao Hanlin , Jin Jinjin , Cai Jixiang , Chen Lianwei , Guo Yinghui , Feng Xingdong , He Qiong , Ma Xiaoliang , Li Xiong , Jiang Baoshan , Luo Xiangang
Published: July 2023

Ultrathin metalenses are a revolutionary technology that have emerged in recent years, offering the potential for high‐resolution, wide‐angle imaging in a compact form factor. However, to eliminate imaging aberrations, multilayered structures are often required, which makes the thickness of these devices comparable to the focal length, negating their ultrathin advantage. Here, a novel methodology using a rear‐position wavevector filter is proposed as a solution to this problem, allowing for the necessary thickness to be achieved in subwavelength scale and independent of metalens parameters. Compared with the previous wide‐angle metalens with the minimum ratio of thickness to focal length, this approach has been shown to compress the ratio of thickness to focal length by 55 times compared to traditional metalenses and has been experimentally demonstrated in both the visible and near‐infrared with a maximum diffraction‐limited field of view of over 120°. In addition, this approach can also compress the system length by 50% and increase imaging resolution by more than 3 times. This methodology can be scaled to all spectral bands and has the potential to revolutionize the design paradigm of imaging systems for industrial and research applications.
Characterization of mRNA therapeutics
Authors: Guimaraes Guilherme J. , Kim Jaeah , Bartlett Michael G.
Published: July 2023

Therapeutic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have emerged as powerful tools in the treatment of complex diseases, especially for conditions that lack efficacious treatment. The successful application of this modality can be attributed to its ability to encode entire proteins. While the large nature of these molecules has supported their success as therapeutics, its extended size creates several analytical challenges. To further support therapeutic mRNA development and its deployment in clinical trials, appropriate methods to support their characterization must be developed. In this review, we describe current analytical methods that have been used in the characterization of RNA quality, identity, and integrity. Advantages and limitations from several analytical techniques ranging from gel electrophoresis to liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and from shotgun sequencing to intact mass measurements are discussed. We comprehensively describe the application of analytical methods in the measurements of capping efficiency, poly A tail analysis, as well as their applicability in stability studies.
A dual band compact circularly polarized antenna for GPS applications
Authors: Kaur Sarabjeet , Chaurasiya Bharti , Sazid Mohd , Rizvi Navaid Zafar
Published: July 2023

A novel dual band antenna with right‐hand circular polarization (RHCP) is fabricated. It consists of a T‐shaped parasitic element on the backside of T‐shaped patch (TSP) and a ground plane. The design comprises a rectangular and CPW fed clearance in the ground plane. The placing of a TSP and connecting rectangular stubs to the ground plane is used to achieve GPS L5 and L2 bands. Circular polarization in GPS L5 and L2 bands is produced by rectangular horizontal stubs and F‐shaped slots (FSS), respectively. The measured results show 34 MHz (1.160–1.194 GHz) and 57 MHz (1.207–1.260 GHz) –10 dB impedance bandwidth and 3‐dB axial ratio bandwidths are 10 MHz (1.174–1.184 GHz) and 10 MHz (1.223–1.233 GHz). It also displays a minimum axial ratio of 1.35 and 0.34 dB with broad beamwidth (>100°) essential for the GPS applications. The final design is verified in the experiment. The advantages of the proposed design are compact size, simple structure, and broad beamwidth.
Branched Comonomers in LLDPE—Influence of Short Chain Branch Shape on Crystallinity
Authors: Göpperl Lukas , Cipullo Roberta , Schwarzinger Clemens , Paulik Christian
Published: July 2023

The crystallinity of Linear Low‐Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) is influenced significantly by short‐chain branches (SCBs) present in the backbone of the polymer. Despite the importance of this aspect, with only a few linear comonomers being currently used in the commercial production of LLDPE. It is found that by introducing branched comonomers, the melting point and crystallinity of LLDPE can be influenced to a greater extent than with linear comonomers. Since only a few linear comonomers are currently used in the production of LLDPE, the characterization of LLDPEs with branched comonomer has been often overlooked. By combining High‐Temperature‐Size‐Exclusion Chromatography (HT‐SEC), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, it is shown that standard HT‐SEC analysis using an IR detector is also applicable to polymers containing branched comonomers.
Bringing MRI to low‐ and middle‐income countries: Directions, challenges and potential solutions
Authors: Murali Sanjana , Ding Hao , Adedeji Fope , Qin Cathy , Obungoloch Johnes , Asllani Iris , Anazodo Udunna , Ntusi Ntobeko A. B. , Mammen Regina , Niendorf Thoralf , Adeleke Sola
Published: July 2023

The global disparity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a major challenge, with many low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) experiencing limited access to MRI. The reasons for limited access are technological, economic and social. With the advancement of MRI technology, we explore why these challenges still prevail, highlighting the importance of MRI as the epidemiology of disease changes in LMICs. In this paper, we establish a framework to develop MRI with these challenges in mind and discuss the different aspects of MRI development, including maximising image quality using cost‐effective components, integrating local technology and infrastructure and implementing sustainable practices. We also highlight the current solutions—including teleradiology, artificial intelligence and doctor and patient education strategies—and how these might be further improved to achieve greater access to MRI.
A matrix‐free macro‐element variant of the hybridized discontinuous Galerkin method
Authors: Badrkhani Vahid , Hiemstra René R. , Mika Michał , Schillinger Dominik
Published: July 2023

We investigate a macro‐element variant of the hybridized discontinuous Galerkin (HDG) method, using patches of standard simplicial elements that can have non‐matching interfaces. Coupled via the HDG technique, our method enables local refinement by uniform simplicial subdivision of each macro‐element. By enforcing one spatial discretization for all macro‐elements, we arrive at local problems per macro‐element that are embarrassingly parallel, yet well balanced. Therefore, our macro‐element variant scales efficiently to n‐node clusters and can be tailored to available hardware by adjusting the local problem size to the capacity of a single node, while still using moderate polynomial orders such as quadratics or cubics. Increasing the local problem size means simultaneously decreasing, in relative terms, the global problem size, hence effectively limiting the proliferation of degrees of freedom. The global problem is solved via a matrix‐free iterative technique that also heavily relies on macro‐element local operations. We investigate and discuss the advantages and limitations of the macro‐element HDG method via an advection‐diffusion model problem.
The thin blue line in schools: New evidence on school‐based policing across the U.S.
Authors: Sorensen Lucy C. , Avila‐Acosta Montserrat , Engberg John B. , Bushway Shawn D.
Published: July 2023

U.S. public school students increasingly attend schools with sworn law enforcement officers present. Yet little is known about how these school resource officers (SROs) affect school environments or student outcomes. Our study uses a fuzzy regression discontinuity (RD) design with national school‐level data from 2014 to 2018 to estimate the impacts of SRO placement. We construct this discontinuity based on the application scores for federal school‐based policing grants of linked police agencies. We find that SROs effectively reduce some forms of violence in schools, but do not prevent gun‐related incidents. We also find that SROs intensify the use of suspension, expulsion, police referral, and arrest of students. These increases in disciplinary and police actions are consistently largest for Black students, male students, and students with disabilities.
Child‐centered communication interventions in pediatric oncology: A scoping review and proposed new communication model
Authors: Høeg Beverley Lim , Sevillano Paula Barrios , Enesco Ileana , Wakefield Claire E. , Larsen Hanne Baekgaard , Bidstrup Pernille Envold
Published: July 2023

Child‐centered communication in pediatric oncology can be challenging. We aimed to review communication interventions with children about cancer treatment and prognosis to identify potentially effective child‐centered communication models and approaches. We updated a previous review on communication interventions in oncology and searched MEDLINE, Scopus, and PsychINFO for studies indexed between October 2019 up to October 2022. We further searched for ongoing studies on ClinicalTrials.gov. Communication interventions targeting pediatric oncology patients (below 18 years), with outcomes of communication, psychological symptoms or satisfaction in the target population were eligible. We identified 685 titles/abstracts, screened the full text of 34 studies and included only one published study and two ongoing studies. The published study tested a communication tool to help clinicians inform adolescents about treatment options and facilitate shared decision‐making. No communication models were identified. We drew on knowledge from existing studies and guidelines to develop a new child‐centered communication model.
Block length distribution, morphology, and property of thermoplastic polyurethanes affected by production method: A polymer‐by‐process investigation
Authors: Liu Zhirang , Fu Lianlian , Wang Zeyu , Gao Zhidong , Liu Yunhang , Li Xuke , Eling Berend , Pöselt Elmar , Schander Edgar , Wang Zongbao
Published: July 2023

Two thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPUs) based on the same monomers and composition were produced by two different production methods – hand mix batch process and continuous band casting. The soft segment was poly(hydrofuran) (PTHF) with a molar mass of 1000 and the hard segment was made of 1,4‐butanediol (BD) and 4,4′‐methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI). The hard segment content amounted to 42%. The distinctions in crystallization and thermal behavior and mechanical properties of the two TPUs were ascribed to differences in the hard and soft block length distribution caused by the different production methods. Using thermal fractionation – a series of successive self‐nucleation and annealing steps – the minor differences in hard block length distribution could be shown and quantified. The length distribution of the hard and soft blocks of the machine‐produced sample was narrower than that of the hand‐cast sample. The former with the narrow block distribution showed thicker and mechanically and thermally more stable hard domains. The more uniform block length distribution facilitated crystallization and resulted in improved tensile recovery behavior and elasticity. The second with the broader distribution, however, showed the highest tensile strength at break, which was ascribed to an improved strain‐induced hardening of the soft phase.
Analysis of neutral mutational drift in an allosteric enzyme
Authors: Liechty Evan T. , Hren Andrew , Kramer Levi , Donovan Gregory , Friedman Anika J. , Shirts Michael R. , Fox Jerome M.
Published: July 2023

Neutral mutational drift is an important source of biological diversity that remains underexploited in fundamental studies of protein biophysics. This study uses a synthetic transcriptional circuit to study neutral drift in protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), a mammalian signaling enzyme for which conformational changes are rate limiting. Kinetic assays of purified mutants indicate that catalytic activity, rather than thermodynamic stability, guides enrichment under neutral drift, where neutral or mildly activating mutations can mitigate the effects of deleterious ones. In general, mutants show a moderate activity‐stability tradeoff, an indication that minor improvements in the activity of PTP1B do not require concomitant losses in its stability. Multiplexed sequencing of large mutant pools suggests that substitutions at allosterically influential sites are purged under biological selection, which enriches for mutations located outside of the active site. Findings indicate that the positional dependence of neutral mutations within drifting populations can reveal the presence of allosteric networks and illustrate an approach for using synthetic transcriptional systems to explore these mutations in regulatory enzymes.
Assessment of microbial biocontrol agent (BCA) viability to mechanical and thermal stress by simulating spray application conditions
Authors: Grella Marco , Gioelli Fabrizio , Marucco Paolo , Zwertvaegher Ingrid , Mozzanini Eric , Pittarello Marco , Balsari Paolo , Fountas Spyros , Nuyttens David , Mezzalama Monica , Pugliese Massimo
Published: July 2023

Background

In order to improve the biological control agent (BCA) efficacy, stress factors threatening the viability of microorganisms during spray application need to be determined. The effect of spray mixture temperature and exposure time on Trichoderma harzianum T 22 and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 viability were tested. Concurrently the combined effect of mechanical and thermal stress effect on BCA viability were tested at two initial spray mixture temperatures (14 and 25 °C) by simulating a spray application using airblast sprayers featured by different tank capacity and a spray liquid circuit (without and with hydraulic agitation system). To assess the BCA microorganism viability, spray mixture samples were collected at time intervals along trials and plated to count the colony forming units (CFU).

Results

The critical temperature threshold that inhibited BCA viability was 35 °C with 30 min of exposure. The sprayer type, the initial temperature of the spray mixture and the temperature increment during the trials significantly decreased the number of CFU recovered. When simulating a spray application, the spray mixture temperature increase rate was determined mainly by the residual amount of spray mixture in the tank. Even if the tank capacity does not substantially affect the final temperature reached by the spray mixture, the higher residual spray mixture in bigger tanks can expose the BCAs for a longer time to critical temperatures.

Conclusions

Experimental trials allowed us to identify the effect of factors affecting the viability of tested BCAs, providing information about the actual chance to guarantee the biological efficacy of BCA treatments. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Chavibetol: major and potent phytotoxin in betel (Piper betle L.) leaf essential oil
Authors: Kemprai Phirose , Bora Pranjit Kumar , Saikia Siddhartha Proteem , Haldar Saikat
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Many essential oils and their constituent volatile organic compounds are known to be phytotoxic and potential bioherbicides. This study aims to investigate the phytotoxicity of propenylbenzene‐rich essential oils and identify active molecule(s) therein.

RESULTS

Five commercially available propenylbenzene‐rich oils were screened, of which betel (Piper betle L.) oil was identified as a potent natural phytotoxin. It dose‐dependently inhibited wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) seed germination and growth in water and agar medium with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) in the range 23.2–122.7 μg mL−1. Phytotoxicity‐guided fractionation and purification revealed chavibetol as the major and most potent phytotoxic constituent of betel oil, followed by chavibetol acetate. A structure–activity relationship study involving 12 propenylbenzenes indicated the structural and positional importance of aromatic substitutions for the activity. Furthermore, the phytotoxic efficacy of chavibetol was established against wheatgrass germination and growth in water (IC50 15.8–53.4 μg mL−1), agar (IC50 34.4–53.6 μg mL−1) and aerial (IC50 1.7–4.5 mg L−1) media with a more pronounced effect on the radicle. Also, in open phytojars, chavibetol efficiently inhibited the growth of 3–7‐day‐old bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) seedlings when sprayed directly (IC50 2.3–3.4 mg jar−1) or supplemented in agar (IC50 116.6–139.1 μg mL−1). The growth of pre‐germinated green amaranth (Amaranthus viridis) was inhibited more effectively in both application modes (1.2–1.4 mg jar−1 and IC50 26.8–31.4 μg mL−1 respectively).

CONCLUSION

The study concluded betel oil as a potent phytotoxic herbal extract and its major constituent chavibetol as a promising volatile phytotoxin for the future management of weeds in their early phase of emergence. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pyrethroid and carbamate resistance in Czech populations of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) from oilseed rape
Authors: Stará Jitka , Hovorka Tomáš , Horská Tereza , Zusková Eva , Kocourek František
Published: July 2023

Background

Failures in controlling Myzus persicae by pyrethroids and carbamates have been observed in Czechia since 2018. Eleven populations collected from Czech oilseed rape fields during 2018–2021 were tested for susceptibility to 11 insecticides. The presence of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) leading to knockdown resistance in M. persicae populations was screened using allelic discriminating quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The presence of mutations related with the resistance of M. persicae to pyrethroids and carbamates was detected by sequencing paratype voltage‐gated sodium channel and acetylcholinesterase 2 genes, respectively.

Results

Resistance to alpha‐cypermethrin and pirimicarb was detected in most of the tested populations. The L1014F mutation was detected in 44.5% of M. persicae individuals surviving the field‐recommended dose of alpha‐cypermethrin. Sequencing of partial para gene for paratype voltage‐gated sodium channel detected five different SNPs leading to four amino acid substitutions (kdr L1014F; s‐kdr M918L; s‐kdr M918T; and L932F). No pyrethroid‐sensitive genotype was detected. The S431F amino acid substitution conferring resistance to carbamates was detected in 11 of 20 individuals with different pyrethroid‐resistance genotypes.

Conclusion

Resistance of M. persicae to both pyrethroids and carbamates was detected in nine of 11 populations. High resistance of M. persicae was correlated with mutations of the sodium channel. Sulfoxaflor, flonicamid, and spirotetramat are proposed as effective compounds to control pyrethroid‐ and carbamate‐resistant populations of M. persicae. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Refined Quantum Gates for Λ‐Type Atom‐Photon Hybrid Systems
Authors: Du Fang‐Fang , Wu Yi‐Ming , Fan Gang
Published: July 2023

High‐efficiency quantum information processing is equivalent to the fewest quantum resources and simplest operations by means of logic qubit gates. Based on the reflection geometry of a single photon interacting with a three‐level Λ‐type atom‐cavity system, the authors present some refined protocols for realizing controlled‐not (CNOT), Fredkin, and Toffoli gates on hybrid systems. The first control qubit of gates is encoded on a flying photon, and the remaining qubits are encoded on the atoms in the optical cavity. Moreover, these quantum gates can be extended to the optimal synthesis of multi‐qubit CNOT, Fredkin, and Toffoli gates with optical elements without auxiliary photons or atoms. Further, the simplest single‐qubit operations are applied to the photon only, which make these logic gates experimentally feasible with current technology.
Education for sustainable development in rural communities: Parents' perceptions of children's willingness‐to‐study and learning difficulties associated with school transport in Ukerewe Island, Tanzania
Authors: Tengecha Nyamatari Anselem , Akintunde Tosin Yinka , Agyeman Stephen , Alimo Philip Kofi
Published: July 2023

Quality education and school transport are prerequisites for children to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs), but they are disproportionately inadequate in rural communities. This study explores 350 parents' perceptions of the willingness‐to‐study (WTS) and learning difficulties of schoolchildren in Ukerewe Island (Tanzania) based on the mode of transport. The study surveyed 17 rural islands to build structural equation models based on Health Belief Model. The results showed that schoolchildren in Ukerewe Island have learning difficulties caused by the quality of their mode of transport to and from school. The children's learning difficulties were positively associated with perceived severity, self‐efficacy, and vulnerability. The perceived benefits of canoe transport supported the WTS. However, WTS could not buffer learning difficulties. Interestingly, male and female caregivers differ regarding the perceived WTS and their children's learning difficulties. This study contributes mitigation measures relevant to education and transport planning toward realizing SDGs 3, 4, and 10.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis under multiple effectiveness outcomes: A probabilistic approach
Authors: Arsham Aryana , Bebu Ionut , Mathew Thomas
Published: July 2023

Probability based criteria are proposed for the assessment of cost‐effectiveness of a new treatment compared to a standard treatment when there are multiple effectiveness measures. Depending on the preferences of a policy maker, there are several options to define such criteria. Two such metrics are investigated in detail. One metric is defined as the conditional probability that a new treatment is more effective with respect to the multiple effectiveness measures for patients having lower costs under the new treatment. A second metric is defined as the conditional probability that a new treatment is less costly for patients having greater health benefits under the new treatment. The metrics offer considerable flexibility to a policy maker as thresholds for cost and effectiveness can be incorporated into the metrics. Parametric confidence limits are developed using a percentile bootstrap approach assuming multivariate normality for the joint distribution of the log(cost) and effectiveness measures. A non‐parametric estimation procedure is also developed using the theory of U‐statistics. Numerical results indicate that the proposed confidence limits accurately maintain coverage probabilities. The methodologies are illustrated using a study on the treatment of type two diabetes. Code implementing the proposed methods are provided in the supporting information.
3D trigonal FAPbI3‐based multilevel resistive switching nonvolatile memory for artificial neural synapse
Authors: Tao Li , Jiang Bowen , Ma Sijie , Zhang Yan , Huang Yuanqiang , Pan Yueyi , Kong Weijun , Zhang Jun , Ma Guokun , Wan Houzhao , Ding Yong , Dyson Paul J. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja , Wang Hao
Published: July 2023

Hybrid perovskites have attracted enormous attention in the next generation resistive switching (RS) memristor for the artificial synapses, owing to their ambipolar charge transport, long diffusion length, and tunable visible bandgap. However, the variable switch, limited reproducibility, and poor endurance are the obstacles to the practical application of the perovskite memristors. Herein, we reported a multilevel RS nonvolatile memory based on a 3D trigonal HC(NH2)2PbI3(α‐FAPbI3) perovskite layer modified by 1‐cyanobutyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([CNBmim]Cl) and sandwiched between ITO and Au electrodes (Au/[CNBmim]Cl/α‐FAPbI3/SnO2/ITO). In contrast to the bare memristor with failure switching from low resistance state (LRS) to high resistance state (HRS), the memristor device based on theα‐FAPbI3modified with [CNBmim]Cl (Target device) shows the retention time over 104 s with On/Off ratio (>102) and endurance up to 550 cycles. The stable RS cycle benefits from the accelerated electrons de‐trapping from the reduced defects and fast charge separation in the interface ofα‐FAPbI3/electrode, leading to the rupture of conductive filaments and transition of LRS to HRS. As a two‐terminal analog synaptic device, the target device can realize random handwritten digit recognition with an impressive accuracy of 89.3% on the condition of low learning phases (500 training cycles).
Assessment of health hazard due to fluoride in groundwater from a rural area in east‐coast of India and remedial measures
Authors: Das Utsav , Das Rosalin , Hota Soumya Ranjan , Hota Rabindra Nath
Published: July 2023

The present research deals with the quantification of health hazard in a fluorosis prone area from east‐coast of India. The average health hazard quotients are 2.09, 2.42, 1.79, and 1.69 for infants, children, male, and female adults, respectively. These values are more than the tolerance limit (1) in 92% groundwater samples and 96% of the study area. The children are more vulnerable to fluorosis than infants and adults. Ca2+/ Na+ versus HCO3−/Na+ and Ca2+/Na+ versus Mg2+/Na+ plots suggest silicate weathering as the prime factor while linear relationship of TDS versus NO3− + (Cl−/HCO3−) supports the anthropogenic input of F− to the aquifer system. The study suggests that the F− ions are chiefly derived from fluorite, apatite, biotite, and hornblende present in the granitic basement under alkaline environment. The secondary sources are domestic and industrial sewage as well as return flow from irrigation with ingredients of phosphate fertilizers. The adverse effects of fluorosis can be minimized by mass awareness programmes, alternative source of potable drinking water, defluoridation techniques, dilution of high F− concentration in groundwater, and minimizing the use of phosphate fertilizers.
Quantification, characteristics, and distribution of microplastics released from waste burning furnaces and their associated health impacts
Authors: Aini Sofi Azilan , Syafiuddin Achmad , Kueh Ahmad Beng Hong
Published: July 2023

Although investigation of microplastics (MPs) present in air environment has been intensively carried out, quantification, characteristics, and distribution of MPs released from the waste burning furnace (WBF) has been missing in literature. The aim of this study was to characterize the presence of MPs released from WBFs and analyze their associated health impacts. The examined locations were at two WBFs (nominated as TPS1 and TPS2) in Sidoarjo, Indonesia. MPs were collected using a 9 cm diameter glass beaker for a period of 8 h at two different sampling points, which are 3 and 15 m from each WBF. Several characteristics of MPs in terms of the number of particles, size, shape, color, and polymer type were comprehensively characterized. This study found that the obtained MPs were of fiber type and in the range of 46–77 and 41–59 particles at TPS1 and TPS2, respectively. In general, the polymer types of MPs were, respectively, cellophane and polytetrafluoroethylene at TPS1 and TPS2. Moreover, it was estimated that about 1.9–2.3 MPs can enter the human body via inhalation. This study offers a pilot examination of MPs released from WBF and findings from this study are crucial to provide new knowledge as a basis to carefully regulate the use of WBF particularly that are located closely to local community.
BoHV‐1 affects abortion and progesterone in dairy cows Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV‐1) seropositivity, progesterone levels and embryo loss of 30‐day‐old pregnant dairy cows in Zagros Industrial Dairy Farm in Shahrekord: Examination and analysis
Authors: Khaneabad Amirhosein , Taktaz Taghi , Goodarzi Sajad , Momtaz Hassan
Published: July 2023

Background

Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV‐1) is a serious disease with severe negative economic effects on the global cattle sector, especially in Iran.

Objective

This cross‐sectional study was carried out to examine the seroprevalence and associated risk factors of BoHV‐1 infection with progesterone levels and embryo death in 30‐day pregnant dairy cattle at Zagros Industrial Dairy Farm in Shahrekord, Iran.

Methods

Between December 2017 to February 2018, blood samples were obtained from 60 dairy cow herds. To determine whether BoHV‐1 was present, serum samples were examined using the ELISA for serum antibodies. To find progesterone (P4) in blood, the progesterone ELISA test was used.

Results

96.7 % of sera tested positive for BoHV‐1 antibodies, according to the findings. Additionally, 60.34 % of blood samples that tested positive had an experience of abortion and significantly more inseminations that resulted in pregnancy, consistent with findings from other studies conducted in Iran and other nations.

Conclusions

Since this study is the first to document the risk factor for BoHV‐1 infection in Shahrekord, Iran, we could infer that the virus is extensively dispersed in this area.
The first attempt of assessing the population status of large predators and their prey in an unexplored central Indian Protected Area
Authors: Basak Krishnendu , Suraj M. , Ahmed Moiz , Kumar Ujjwal , Bhattacharjee Subhadeep
Published: July 2023

We assessed population status of large predators and their prey in the Udanti Sitanadi Tiger Reserve (USTR), an almost unexplored Protected Area (PA) in Chhattisgarh State, Central India. Our total effort of 976 km walked on 108 spatially replicated line transects yielded low densities for wild ungulates (8.46 ± 2.1 SE individuals/km2) compared to other PAs in this region. Camera trap surveys with total effort of 3004 trap nights generated 37 photo‐captures of only two individual tigers, while population and densities for leopards (22.03 ± 0.19 SE individuals and 1.56 ± 0.36 SE/100 km2) and striped hyenas (18.18 ± 0.45 SE individuals and 1.69 ± 0.43 SE/100 km2), were quite low too. Predators and prey in USTR demonstrated temporal avoidance of human presence, which could be linked to anthropogenic intrusions across the reserve. Therefore, simultaneous implementations of alternate livelihood‐based strategies and voluntary village rehabilitations along with efficient legal enforcements are urgently needed to mitigate such a critical conservation crisis in USTR.
Wahrgenommene Auswirkungen der Coronapandemie auf die Lebenssituation älterer Menschen
Authors: Hansen Sylvia , Schäfer Nicole , Kaspar Roman
Published: July 2023

Zwischen November 2020 und April 2021 wurde im Rahmen der bundesweiten Studie „Hohes Alter in Deutschland“ eine schriftliche Befragung von mehr als 10.000 Personen ab 80 Jahren zu deren Lebenssituation und Lebensqualität durchgeführt. Die Befragung erfolgte damit unter dem Eindruck der zweiten und dritten Welle der Coronapandemie. Dieser erste Kurzbericht aus der deutschlandweiten Repräsentativbefragung stellt dar, welche Veränderungen sehr alte Menschen im Zusammenhang mit der Pandemie in verschiedenen Lebensbereichen erfahren haben und wie sie diese Veränderungen bewerten.
Beyond Watson-Crick: The Next 40 Years of Semantomorphic Science
Authors: Vecchioni Simon , Sha Ruojie , Ohayon Yoel P.
Published: July 2023

It should come as no surprise that the world of DNA nanotechnology is still learning how to fully master the different steps of the self-assembly process. Semantomorphic science, as the late Ned Seeman would describe DNA nanotechnology, relies on the programmability of nucleic acids (semanto-) to encourage short oligomers to put themselves together (-morphic) into designed architectures (science?). In the same way that Gibson assembly frustrates the molecular biologist, semantomorphic self-assembly has for decades, and continues to, defy the scientist in question. In a brief analogy, Gibson assembly can be thought of as enzymatically directed self-assembly [1] that follows the same general rules as Seeman assembly: (1) guess conditions; (2) set up reaction; (3) pray to entity of choice; (4) check result; and (5) repeat as needed. In other words, when it works, it works well; when it doesn’t, troubleshooting the sticky-ended cohesion between too-large or too-small building blocks with imperfect assays can take months. Returning to semantomorphic science, it is still mesmerizing that any of this works at all, and for that, we owe our deepest gratitude to Ned and his generations-spanning vision.
From Molecules to Mathematics
Authors: Ellis-Monaghan Joanna , Jonoska Nataša
Published: July 2023

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of bottom-up DNA nanotechnology we highlight the interaction of the field with mathematics. DNA self-assembly as a method to construct nanostructures gave impetus to an emerging branch of mathematics, called here ‘DNA mathematics’. DNA mathematics models and analyzes structures obtained as bottom-up assembly, as well as the process of self-assembly. Here we survey some of the new tools from DNA mathematics that can help advance the science of DNA self-assembly. The theory needed to develop these tools is now driving the field of mathematics in new and exciting directions. We describe some of these rich questions, focusing particularly on those related to knot theory, graph theory, and algebra.
DNA Nanotechnology Research in Japan
Authors: Murata Satoshi
Published: July 2023

In this essay, the evolution of DNA nanotechnology research in Japan to date will be reviewed. The expansion of the research community in Japan and the trends in regard to the selection of project themes will be elucidated, along with the identification of the researchers who participated in these projects. Some aspects of the research history of the author, who entered from the field of robotics, are introduced, as this information may be of interest to young students and researchers.
Reminiscences from the Trenches: The Early Years of DNA Nanotech
Authors: LaBean Thomas H.
Published: July 2023

Research toward the use of nucleic acids as a medium in which to encode non-biological information or as a structural material with which to build novel constructs has now been going on for 40 years. I have been participating in this field for approximately 24 years. I will use my space within this dedicated volume to relate some of my personal experiences and observations throughout my own DNA nanotech journey.