bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellulose Nanocrystal Based Bio‐Memristor as a Green Artificial Synaptic Device for Neuromorphic Computing Applications
Authors: Hussain Tassawar , Abbas Haider , Youn Chulmin , Lee Hojin , Boynazarov Turgun , Ku Boncheol , Jeon Yu‐Rim , Han Hoonhee , Lee Jong Hyeon , Choi Changhwan , Choi Taekjib
Published: October 2021

Nanocomposites based on biomaterials are promising candidates for emerging green‐ electronics benefiting from environment‐friendly, renewable, biocompatible, and biodegradable resources for sustainable research and development. Especially, the application of biocomposites‐based memristor for simulating artificial synapses called bio‐memristor has further facilitated the progress of ecologically benign bioelectronics. In this study, the authors present that the environment‐friendly nanocomposites films, consisting of Ag nanoparticles and cellulose nanocrystal (CNC)‐based bio‐memristor with excellent bipolar resistive switching behavior can perform the artificial bio‐synaptic emulation with continuous resistance modulation for memory storage and neuromorphic computing applications. The bio‐memristor exhibits a large resistive switching (ION/OFF as high as ≈104 and ultralow SET/RESET voltage of ≈0.2 V) and reliable switching characteristics through the electrochemical formation/rupture of Ag metallic filaments within the nanocomposite layer. The device presents coexistence of digital and analog switching properties favorable for both nonvolatile digital memory and neuromorphic computing applications. By applying appropriate pulse stimulations to the device, the authors demonstrate biological synaptic functions, including long‐term potentiation/depression, spike‐rate‐dependent plasticity, excitatory post‐synaptic current, paired‐pulse facilitation, and paired‐pulse depression. Thus, this CNC‐based bio‐memristor as an effective artificial synaptic device is beneficial towards the realization of green‐electronics and bio‐inspired neuromorphic systems.
Graphene Superconductivity at Room‐Temperature of a Wide Range and Standard Atmosphere, Based on Vacuum Channels and White‐Light Interferometry
Authors: ChunKan Tao , Rui Tao , Tianyou Kang , MengYao Hu , YuJing Wu , MingJie Yang , XiaoChun Yang , YePing Wang , YunSheng Qian , YiJun Zhang
Published: October 2021

The thickness of a monolayer graphene is extremely thin, ≈0.34 nm, so exact measurement of the optical path length and optical path length difference of graphene is challenging. This paper uses white‐light interferometry and a horizontal grating to obtain the optical characteristic curve of graphene. Then, the real existence of vacuum channels (VCs) in monolayer graphene is discovered. These VCs naturally eliminate the collision phenomena, and provide zero electrical resistance and superconductivity (SC) states. Multiple SC states (SCSs), SC persistence, magnetic field response, VCs transmitting a SC current with high efficiency, screen characteristics of VCs, etc. are discussed. Experiments show that only when a graphene ribbon is located at the exact position of the VC, does it transmit the SC current and provide a SCS. The duration of the persistence tests is 2 months. All experiments are conducted in a completely open space of a laboratory. Graphene SC at room‐temperatures of a wide range and standard atmosphere is achieved. This paper uses the optical technology to realize graphene SC, points out the basic reason of realizing it, and provides the experimental evidences.
High Hole Mobility Inorganic Halide Perovskite Field‐Effect Transistors with Enhanced Phase Stability and Interfacial Defect Tolerance
Authors: Lee Yoon Jung , Han Ji Su , Lee Da Eun , Lee Tae Hyung , Kim Jae Young , Suh Jun Min , Lee Jung Hun , Im In Hyuk , Kim Seung Ju , Kwak Kyung Ju , Jang Ho Won
Published: October 2021

So far, it has been difficult to fabricate thin‐film field‐effect transistors (TFTs) based on inorganic halide perovskites (IHPs) due to their phase‐instability and uncontrollable trap density. Here, the bottom‐gate bottom‐contact structured p‐type TFTs are presented using the optimized IHP in the active layer. The stable cubic‐CsPbI3 phase is successfully synthesized by doping bismuth iodide and reduced defect densities by adding potassium bromide. The IHP TFTs based on the tailored cubic‐CsPbI3 show high hole mobility of ≈10 cm2 V−1 s−1, an on‐off current ratio of 103, and a low subthreshold swing voltage of 0.43 V dec−1. In addition, the operational stability of the fabricated device is demonstrated through the bias stress test. This study suggests that one of the key factors for fabricating an ideal p‐type IHP transistor is managing charge transport properties in the IHP layer through defect engineering.
π–π Interactions Mediated Pyrene Based Ligand Enhanced Photoresponse in Hybrid Graphene/PbS Quantum Dots Photodetectors
Authors: Ahn Seungbae , Ingrosso Chiara , Panniello Annamaria , Striccoli Marinella , Bianco Giuseppe Valerio , Agostiano Angela , Bruno Giovanni , Curri Maria Lucia , Vazquez‐Mena Oscar
Published: October 2021

Hybrid graphene and quantum dots (QDs) photodetectors merge the excellent conductivity and ambipolar electric field sensitivity of graphene, with the unique properties of QDs. The photoresponsivity of these devices depends strongly on the charge transfer at the graphene/QDs interface. Here 1‐pyrene butyric acid (PBA)‐coated PbS QDs with single layer graphene (SLG) are used to investigate the effect of pyrene as a π–π mediator to enhance charge transfer at the SLG/QDs junction under illumination. The surface chemistry at the QD–QD and SLG/QD interface is studied with the conventional tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) QD linker. The hybrid SLG/QD photodetectors with PBA as a SLG‐QD linker demonstrate a photoresponse up to 30% higher than that recorded for devices where only TBAI is used, due to the strong electron coupling between SLG and QDs. Transconductance measurements show that PBA provokes electron depletion in SLG ascribed to the tendency to delocalize the QDs holes, favoring their transfer to SLG. This surface ligand is found to improve the interaction between the QDs light absorbers and the SLG charge collector, leading to an increased photodetection response. This demonstrates that ligand engineering can enhance charge dynamics and boost the performance of the hybrid device.
Atomic Heterointerface Boosts the Catalytic Activity toward Oxygen Reduction/Evolution Reaction
Authors: Lu Xueyi , Yang Yang , Yin Yin , Wang Ziling , Sutrisno Linawati , Yan Chenglin , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: October 2021

Interface engineering is an efficient strategy to enhance the electrocatalytic activity of hybrid materials by taking advantage of the synergistic effect of double or even multiple active sites. Here, the rational design of a Pd/NiO atomic interface with well patterned Pd arrays imbedded into NiO thin films are reported to boost the catalytic activity toward the oxygen reduction/evolution reaction. Theoretical analysis elucidates that the Pd (111)/NiO (111) interface with minimized lattice mismatch effectively adsorbs intermediates (OH*, LiO2*, Li2O2*, and Li2O*) and induces the growth/decomposition of electrochemical reaction products, which greatly lowers the Gibbs energy barrier of crucial steps and boosts the reaction kinetics. As expected, such hybrid thin films exhibit high catalytic activity for both the oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction, with performance comparable to the benchmarked Pt/C and RuO2 catalysts. Moreover, favorable performance is also achieved in both aqueous Zn–air batteries and aprotic Li–air batteries with an overpotential of only 0.69 and 0.50 V, respectively. This work suggests the great potential of such particularly morphological hybrid thin films in the development of high‐performance catalysts for energy storage and conversion.
The role of precision agriculture in food security
Authors: Erickson Bruce , Fausti Scott W.
Published: October 2021

Precision agriculture (PA) is the application of information technology to better manage crop and livestock production, heralded as another tool to advance food security around the world. Precision agriculture has the potential to increase productivity, improve resource allocation for inputs such as pesticides, fertilizers, water, feed, and labor, provide for more stable production, and reduce agricultural production's environmental effect. But PA is an approach that can be very different depending on farm characteristics, such as crops and livestock raised, farm size, management, the farms’ access to technical support, and the characteristics of the operator such as age and education. As a result, the adoption of PA has been slower and less uniform compared with some other agricultural innovations. Modern PA management systems are rarely implemented on small low‐mechanization farms, which comprise much of the world's agricultural production, and these farms are common in areas of the world that are the least food secure. And like other farm technology, its benefits go primarily to its adopters and society as a whole, but those who do not, or cannot adopt are left at a relative disadvantage, which unfortunately at present are most farmers around the world. Food security's four main principles according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations are food availability, access, utilization, and stability. Precision agriculture has an aspect unlike its predecessor innovations that were primarily production related–because it is based on information, it has the capacity also to better inform and to allow adjustment all along the food supply/demand chain.
Advancements in spring frost protection to sustain cranberry production in Massachusetts
Authors: Jeranyama Peter , Kennedy Casey D.
Published: October 2021

American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) is a perennial woody plant that produces buds on short vertical branches known as uprights. These buds must overwinter to acquire adequate winter hardening for protection against frost damage in the spring. Once buds have broken dormancy, the plant requires protection from cold temperatures and desiccating winds. In this study, we evaluated three thermal time models, or growing degree day (GDD) models, as decision tools for initiating spring frost protection, and two methods for applying irrigation for spring frost protection (conventional vs. cycling). We found that the WI(30‐5) thermal time model provided the most accurate estimates of the phenology of buds in both normal and abnormal spring temperature years. Although irrigation cycling resulted in slightly higher bud damage, it did not reduce fruit yield. This finding is consistent with bud damage localized in one to two floral initials, with the remaining two to four initials producing flowers and berries comparable to beds with conventional irrigation. In addition to not differences in fruit yield, water savings of up to 35% were obtained in cycled frost irrigation compared with conventional frost irrigation.
XAITK: The explainable AI toolkit
Authors: Hu Brian , Tunison Paul , Vasu Bhavan , Menon Nitesh , Collins Roddy , Hoogs Anthony
Published: October 2021

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), driven mainly by deep neural networks, have yielded remarkable progress in fields, such as computer vision, natural language processing, and reinforcement learning. Despite these successes, the inability to predict how AI systems will behave “in the wild” impacts almost all stages of planning and deployment, including research and development, verification and validation, and user trust and acceptance. The field of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) seeks to develop techniques enabling AI algorithms to generate explanations of their results; generally these are human‐interpretable representations or visualizations that are meant to “explain” how the system produced its outputs. We introduce the Explainable AI Toolkit (XAITK), a DARPA‐sponsored effort that builds on results from the 4‐year DARPA XAI program. The XAITK has two goals: (a) to consolidate research results from DARPA XAI into a single publicly accessible repository; and (b) to identify operationally relevant capabilities developed on DARPA XAI and assist in their transition to interested partners. We first describe the XAITK website and associated capabilities. These place the research results from DARPA XAI in the wider context of general research in the field of XAI, and include performer contributions of code, data, publications, and reports. We then describe the XAITK analytics and autonomy software frameworks. These are Python‐based frameworks focused on particular XAI domains, and designed to provide a single integration endpoint for multiple algorithm implementations from across DARPA XAI. Each framework generalizes APIs for system‐level data and control while providing a plugin interface for existing and future algorithm implementations. The XAITK project can be followed at: https://xaitk.org.
Phylogeography and ecological differentiation of strictly Mediterranean taxa: the case of the Iberian endemic Odontites recordonii
Authors: Pinto‐Carrasco Daniel , Delgado Luis , Sánchez Agudo José A. , Rico Enrique , Martínez‐Ortega M. Montserrat
Published: October 2021

Premise

Ecological drivers for genetic differentiation in Mediterranean climates are still underexplored. We have used the strictly Mediterranean endemic Odontites recordonii as a model species to address this question. This species is one of the three Iberian representatives of the O. vernus group, which are morphologically similar. Thus, it was additionally necessary to clarify their phylogenetic relationships.

Methods

We used amplified fragment length polymorphisms to reveal phylogenetic relationships within O. vernus group, and to reconstruct the phylogeographic patterns within O. recordonii. Additionally, ecological niche models were generated to detect refugia along the Quaternary climatic oscillations. And finally, alleles under natural selection were identified, and correlations between allele presences and environmental variables were calculated in order to shed light on the ecological drivers promoting differentiation.

Results

The three species from the O. vernus group were recovered as distinct species. Three genetic groups were found within O. recordonii and a putative refugium was detected for each one. Eighty‐one alleles could be under diversifying selection, and 58 alleles showed significant correlations with environmental variables, especially with temperature and precipitation seasonality and summer drought.

Conclusions

The three Iberian species of the O. vernus group are reciprocal monophyletic taxa. The three genetic groups of O. recordonii could have been restricted to narrow refugia during the Quaternary and displayed present distributions in accordance with bioclimatic conditions. Temperature and precipitation seasonality and the intensity of summer drought are definitory climatic parameters of Mediterranean‐type climates, and they could have acted as drivers of genetic differentiation on O. recordonii.
A poly(vinyl alcohol)/poly(stearyl acrylate) core‐shell fibers with robust performance realized by taking advantages of the phase change property
Authors: Qu Meijie , Wang Hai , Zheng Nan , Chen Qiushan , Tang Ping , Bin Yuezhen
Published: October 2021

A phase change fiber with long‐term stability, temperature dependent transparency and melt‐healing properties were prepared using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the shell layer and polystearyl acrylate (PSA) lightly crosslinked by ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate (ETPTA) as the core layer. It was found the PVA/P(SA‐ETPTA) core‐shell fiber exhibited a melt enthalpy of 43 J/g (coagulation bath temperature −15 °C, core layer diameter 0.2 mm, spinning rate 1.0 mm/s) and an extremely high stability after 100 heating–cooling cycles. The as‐spun core‐shell fiber was fragile, but the flexibility was greatly improved after it was drawn to 800% of the original length. The PVA shell forming tunneling for the P(SA‐ETPTA) core layer, which could heal after fracture on condition of PSA melting. The melting and crystallization of PSA side chains enabled a temperature dependent light transmittance of the PVA/P(SA‐ETPTA) fibers, which was ascribed to the phase separation between PSA and PETPTA around the melting point of the PSA composition. As a whole, the core‐shell fibers showed robust performance as a phase change fiber. Further aggregate structure and orientation structure investigation on the PVA/P(SA‐ETPTA) fiber was detected by wide angle X‐ray diffraction and small angle X‐ray scattering.
Design for assessment of dissection in anatomy laboratory based on group identification of structures and peer evaluation
Authors: Hafez Shireen A.
Published: October 2021

Dissection is a unique multisensory educational experience and is essential to learning the anatomical construction of the human and animal bodies. This study aims to introduce a specialized design for the assessment of dissection and to discuss the assessment's attributes. The design was a product of the “assessment drives learning” concept and was developed to motivate students to dissect. Students were awarded “dissection points” based on prior group dissection and identification of structures. Students' perception of the design was examined, and content analysis was performed. The assessment consisted of two parts: the first assigning each student group structures to “pin” on their previously dissected cadavers; the second was a group peer evaluation. The most critical factor for the assessment's success was careful selection of structures assigned to students to pin. The assessment was fit for the purpose, valid, reliable, and had a significant educational impact. Eighty‐three percent of students (n = 116) recommended maintaining the assessment design, as they felt it promoted a deep approach to learning as well as teamwork while reducing stress to a minimum. A strong correlation (Spearman's rho = 0.46, P < 0.0001) was present between the high rating of the design and the number of structures learned, as well as, high rating and lower stress level (Spearman's rho = 0.40, P < 0.0001). There was no apparent influence of grades on student perception of the effectiveness of the assessment. This specific design of evaluation could be used as part of anatomy education in veterinary and medical schools.
EQUINOXE study: Impact of relational cohesion and sexuality on the quality of life of patients treated with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist for prostate cancer
Authors: Droupy Stéphane , Colson Marie‐Hélène , Pello‐Leprince‐Ringuet Nathalie , Perrot Valérie , Descazeaud Aurélien
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To measure the effect of dyadic adjustment on changes in patients’ quality of life when initiating treatment with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist.

Patients and methods

A prospective, multicenter, longitudinal, and non‐interventional study (NCT02630641) that included patients with prostate cancer starting GnRH agonist therapy, and their partners, in 157 centers in France. Data were collected at inclusion and after 6 months of treatment on quality of life (WHOQOL‐BREF), disease perception (B‐IPQ), disease symptoms (QLQ‐PR25), and perception of cohesion within the couple (dyadic adjustment, DAS‐16).

Results

The Full Analysis Set included 492 patients (median age [Q1;Q3]: 74 [68;80] years). An improvement of the quality of life (defined as the improvement of at least one of the four dimensions of WHOQOL‐BREF) was reported in 290/434 (67%) patients between baseline and follow‐up. Quality of life was better at baseline and follow‐up in patients with good cohesion within the couple than in those with medium or poor cohesion. Factors associated with improvement in quality of life of patients were the following: initial presence of QLQ‐PR25 hormonal treatment‐related symptoms (OR [95% CI]: 3.00 [1.46, 6.17]) suggesting testosterone deficiency symptoms at baseline and initial low level (2.04 [1.12, 3.72]) or absence of sexual activity (2.23 [1.11, 4.50]) before GnRH agonist initiation.

Conclusion

Men with the greatest improvement in quality of life after initiating hormone therapy were those with, at baseline, testosterone deficiency symptoms (identified by QLQ‐PR25 treatment‐related symptoms score) or no/low sexual activity. Cohesion within the couple was not confirmed as an influence on the evolution of quality of life.
Strengths and weaknesses of the psychology of criminal conduct: Implications for the conceptualisation, assessment and treatment of antisocial personality pattern
Authors: Fortune Clare‐Ann , Heffernan Roxanne
Published: October 2021

The Psychology of Criminal Conduct and its associated components (e.g. the Risk Need Responsivity model, the Central Eight risk factors) has been hugely influential in the criminal justice sector. However, like any theory it has relative strengths and weakness, one weakness being that assumptions have been made about the causal nature and conceptual coherence of its foundational constructs, dynamic risk factors. The numerous issues with the conceptualisation of dynamic risk factors have implications for the widespread practice of using them as explanations of offending and to inform intervention planning. Recently some attention has been given to exploring the conceptualisation and definitions, scope and use of dynamic risk factors. Some key advancements in this area are considered and we illustrate how the weaknesses encountered by dynamic risk factors may impact our understanding and application of these concepts, using the example of Antisocial Personality Pattern.
The effect of respiration and body position on terminal thoracic duct diameter and the lymphovenous junction: An exploratory ultrasound study
Authors: Hinton Lucy R. , O'Hagan Lomani A. , Griffiths Andrew P. , Clark Alys R. , Phillips Anthony R. J. , Windsor John A. , Mirjalili S. Ali
Published: October 2021

The thoracic duct (TD) drains most of the body's lymph back to the venous system via its lymphovenous junction (LVJ), playing a pivotal role in fluid homeostasis, fat absorption and the systemic immune response. The respiratory cycle is thought to assist with lymph flow, but the precise mechanism underpinning terminal TD lymph flow into the central veins is not well understood. The aim of this study was to use ultrasonography (US) to explore the relationship between terminal TD lymph flow, the respiratory cycle, and gravity. The left supraclavicular fossa was scanned in healthy non‐fasted volunteers using high‐resolution (13–5 MHz) US to identify the terminal TD and the presence of a lymphovenous valve (LVV). The TD's internal diameter was measured in relation to respiration (inspiration vs. expiration) and body positioning (supine vs. Trendelenburg). The terminal TD was visualized in 20/33 (61%) healthy volunteers. An LVV was visualized in only 4/20 (20%) cases. The mean terminal TD diameter in the supine position was 1.7 mm (range 0.8–3.1 mm); this increased in full inspiration (mean 1.8 mm, range 0.9–3.2 mm, p < 0.05), and in the Trendelenburg position (mean 1.8 mm, range 1.2–3.1 mm, p < 0.05). The smallest mean terminal TD diameter occurred in full expiration (1.6 mm, range 0.7–3.1 mm, p < 0.05). Respiration and gravity impact the terminal TD diameter. Due to the challenges of visualizing the TD and LVJ, other techniques such as dynamic magnetic resonance imaging will be required to fully understand the factors governing TD lymph flow.
A reappraisal of pediatric abdominal surface anatomy
Authors: Şener Umut , Tellioğlu Ayfer Metin , Polat Yasemin Durum
Published: October 2021

Surface anatomy is fundamental to clinical and surgical practices. As the surface anatomy varies with age, the purpose of this study is to provide age‐standardized surface markings for the abdomen in children. A total of 155 abdominal computed tomography scans of healthy children aged 0–18 years were categorized into six groups, and the surface anatomy of the major vascular structures, solid viscera, and anatomical planes in the abdomen was analyzed. The vertebral levels of the celiac trunk, superior mesenteric artery, and hepatic portal vein formation were higher in the youngest age group, whereas the levels of the inferior mesenteric artery, formation of the inferior vena cava, and renal arteries did not differ with age. The right kidney lay between T12 and L3 and the left at T11‐L3; however, both kidneys were in lower positions in younger children. The spleen was most commonly located between the 8th and 11th ribs except in toddlers. In all age groups, the hepatic portal vein formation was within the transpyloric plane and the aortic bifurcation was above the supracristal plane. In vivo reassessment of the surface anatomy enables the substantial variability of surface landmarks to be highlighted. This study demonstrates that taking account of age‐related variations will increase the accuracy and therefore the clinical relevance of surface anatomy.
Review recent rulings involving Title VII and racial discrimination
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: October 2021

An overview of the key topics faced by campus administrators with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Influence of genotype and environment on the flour and bread baking properties of peas and lentils
Authors: Lagassé Shelley , Boyd Lindsey , Young Gina , Frohlich Peter , Boyd Rosa , Bourré Lindsay , Sarkar Ashok , Sopiwnyk Elaine , Warkentin Tom D. , Vandenberg Albert , Crow Gary , Dyck Adam , Malcolmson Linda
Published: October 2021

Background and objectives

Understanding the influence of genotype (G) and environment (E) on the compositional, functional, and baking properties of pulse flours is important for expanding their use as alternative plant‐based ingredients. The objective of this research was to examine the effects of G, E, and their interaction (GxE) on flour and bread properties of peas (yellow and red) and lentils (red and green).

Findings

For both peas and lentils, main effects of G and/or E were observed for most of the flour and bread parameters including sensory properties. Significant GxE effects were also observed for some of the flour and bread parameters.

Conclusions

Both G and E influenced the flour and bread baking properties of peas and lentils. To ensure consistent flour quality and to meet flour specifications, G and E should be considered when sourcing peas and lentils for flour production.

Significance and novelty

The findings from this research greatly advance our understanding of the importance of G and E on the quality of pea and lentil flours and their baking performance.
Concomitant ventricular septal rupture and interventricular septal aneurysm in neglected inferior myocardial infarction misdiagnosed with congenital ventricular septal defect: A case report
Authors: Davarpasand Tahereh , Mohseni‐Badalabadi Reza , Sadeghian Mohammad , Mortazavi Seyedeh Hamideh , Lalvand Atefeh
Published: October 2021

This study emphasizes that VSD should not be immediately diagnosed as a congenital disorder; instead, regional wall motion abnormalities in the left ventricle should also be taken into account since it may result from mechanical complications of neglected myocardial infarction.
The Friends of Cancer Research Real‐World Data Collaboration Pilot 2.0: Methodological Recommendations from Oncology Case Studies
Authors: Rivera Donna R. , Henk Henry J. , Garrett‐Mayer Elizabeth , Christian Jennifer B. , Belli Andrew J. , Bruinooge Suanna S. , Espirito Janet L. , Sweetnam Connor , Izano Monika A. , Natanzon Yanina , Robert Nicholas J. , Walker Mark S. , Cohen Aaron B. , Boyd Marley , Enewold Lindsey , Hansen Eric , Honnold Rebecca , Kushi Lawrence , Mishra Kalyani Pallavi S. , Pe Benito Ruth , Sakoda Lori C. , Sharon Elad , Tymejczyk Olga , Valice Emily , Wagner Joseph , Lasiter Laura , Allen Jeff D.
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential collective opportunities and challenges of transforming real‐world data (RWD) to real‐world evidence for clinical effectiveness by focusing on aligning analytic definitions of oncology end points. Patients treated with a qualifying therapy for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer in the frontline setting meeting broad eligibility criteria were included to reflect the real‐world population. Although a trend toward improved outcomes in patients receiving PD‐(L)1 therapy over standard chemotherapy was observed in RWD analyses, the magnitude and consistency of treatment effect was more heterogeneous than previously observed in controlled clinical trials. The study design and analysis process highlighted the identification of pertinent methodological issues and potential innovative approaches that could inform the development of high‐quality RWD studies.
Genetic gain and G×E interaction in bread wheat cultivars representing 105 years of breeding in Pakistan
Authors: Hanif Uzma , Gul Alvina , Amir Rabia , Munir Faiza , Sorrells Mark E. , Gauch Hugh G. , Mahmood Zahid , Subhani Abid , Imtiaz Muhammad , Alipour Hadi , Rasheed Awais , He Zhonghu
Published: October 2021

It is important to understand the genetic gain achieved through selection of key yield traits for planning future breeding strategies in developing high yielding wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars. The aim of this study was to characterize the genetic changes and genotype × environment (G×E) interaction by additive main effect and multiplicative interactions (AMMI) for morphological, physiological, and yield component traits under five environments using 24 wheat cultivars released from 1911 to 2016 in Pakistan. There was a significant increase in grain yield (9.03 kg ha−1 yr−1, 0.37%), and plant height was reduced linearly (−0.26 cm yr−1, −0.33%). The traits waxiness, leaf rolling, harvest index, spike length, and grains per spike significantly increased but the gain was only 0.16–0.2% per year. Analysis of variance revealed that genotype, environment, and G×E interaction were highly significant (P < .01) for all traits except relative chlorophyll content, biomass, days to maturity, and number of spikes. Gene‐specific markers identified the durable resistance gene Lr67/Yr46/Sr55/Pm46 in obsolete cultivars as early as 1911, whereas the photoperiod‐insensitive allele Ppd‐D1a and reduced height alleles Rht‐B1b and Rht‐D1b were present only in the post‐1965 cultivars. Diversity analysis based on a 50K single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping array clearly differentiated temporal patterns in 24 cultivars, which was correlated with the agronomic performance of the cultivars. This dataset provided detailed insight into the performance of historical wheat cultivars and could help in devising wheat breeding strategies to focus on the traits contributing to grain yield and have slower rate of genetic progress.
Optimizing the choice of test locations for multitrait genotypic evaluation
Authors: Neyhart Jeffrey L. , Gutierrez Lucia , Smith Kevin P.
Published: October 2021

Plant breeding programs expend significant resources on multilocation testing to evaluate genotypes for advancement or potential cultivar release. The selection of genotype entries for these trials is typically based on previous phenotypic data or predictions; yet locations, important contributors to nongenetic variation, are often chosen in a less data‐driven manner. Using agronomic and quality trait data from two long‐term regional barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) nurseries, our objectives were (a) to measure the precision, repeatability, and representativeness of test locations based on multitrait data and (b) to optimize the selection of test locations for use in future trials. When considering traits individually, ideal locations could be identified simply, but a combined analysis of 11 traits indicated that very few locations were broadly favorable, and considerable tradeoffs are necessary. We developed a flexible optimization procedure to select the locations based on their precision, repeatability, and representativeness for multiple traits while simultaneously constraining the total number of locations. Optimization led to a 58–75% reduction in the number of locations, and therefore phenotyping costs, with little loss in data utility. Importantly, our approach allowed locations to be selected for phenotyping different sets of traits (e.g., either agronomic or both agronomic and malting quality), mimicking the often nested structure of trait data collection. This approach may be useful for individual plant breeding programs or collaborations wishing to increase the resource efficiency of these important regional evaluation trials.
Measurement of dense plasma temperature of the shock‐compressed silicon
Authors: Nikolaev D.N. , Kulish M.I. , Dudin S.V. , Mintsev V.B. , Lomonosov I.V. , Fortov V.E.
Published: October 2021

Measurements of the brightness temperature and compressibility of a dense silicon plasma formed by powerful shock waves (SWs) passing through a single‐crystal sample have been carried out. Plane SWs were created using an explosive technique: the traditional plane acceleration of a steel driver plate made it possible to obtain pressures in silicon up to 133 GPa, and the use of “Mach” cumulative generators realized the pressures up to 510 GPa. The shock Hugoniot of silicon was determined by the impedance matching with α‐quartz as the reference. The intensity of emitted thermal radiation was measured in the infrared rangeλ ∼ 1.5 μm, where silicon is optically transparent, and in the visible range of the spectrum. A significant (up to five times) understatement of the measured values of the brightness temperature in comparison with the values calculated by the equation of state was found. Taking into account the reflective properties of the SW in silicon does not lead to an agreement with the experiment. The estimates of relaxation processes behind the shock front suggest the presence of a zone of the establishment of ionization equilibrium with a width of ∼10 μm.
Recent progress in cytometric technologies and their applications in ecotoxicology and environmental risk assessment
Authors: Wlodkowic Donald , Czerw Aleksandra , Karakiewicz Beata , Deptała Andrzej
Published: October 2021

Environmental toxicology focuses on identifying and predicting impact of potentially toxic anthropogenic chemicals on biosphere at various levels of biological organization. Presently there is a significant drive to gain deeper understanding of cellular and sub‐cellular mechanisms of ecotoxicity. Most notable is increased focus on elucidation of cellular‐response networks, interactomes, and greater implementation of cell‐based biotests using high‐throughput procedures, while at the same time decreasing the reliance on standard animal models used in ecotoxicity testing. This is aimed at discovery and interpretation of molecular pathways of ecotoxicity at large scale. In this regard, the applications of cytometry are perhaps one of the most fundamental prospective analytical tools for the next generation and high‐throughput ecotoxicology research. The diversity of this modern technology spans flow, laser‐scanning, imaging, and more recently, Raman as well as mass cytometry. The cornerstone advantages of cytometry include the possibility of multi‐parameter measurements, gating and rapid analysis. Cytometry overcomes, thus, limitations of traditional bulk techniques such as spectrophotometry or gel‐based techniques that average the results from pooled cell populations or small model organisms. Novel technologies such as cell imaging in flow, laser scanning cytometry, as well as mass cytometry provide innovative and tremendously powerful capabilities to analyze cells, tissues as well as to perform in situ analysis of small model organisms. In this review, we outline cytometry as a tremendously diverse field that is still vastly underutilized and often largely unknown in environmental sciences. The main motivation of this work is to highlight the potential and wide‐reaching applications of cytometry in ecotoxicology, guide environmental scientists in the technological aspects as well as popularize its broader adoption in environmental risk assessment.
Influence of glycaemic control on macular thickness in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Sharma Sadhana , Karki Pratap , Joshi Sagun Narayan , Parajuli Sanket
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Diabetic macular oedema (DME) is one of the major cause of decreased visual acuity in patients with diabetic retinopathy. Poor glycaemic control is associated with increased incidence of DME.

Methods

A total of 112 eyes of 112 patients were studied in this cross‐sectional study and were classified into three groups based on HbA1c: group 1 included patients with good glycaemic control (HbA1c ≤7%), group 2 included patients with moderate glycaemic control (HbA1c between 7% and 9%) and group 3 included patients with poor glycaemic control (HbA1c ≥9%).

Results

We included 112 eyes of 112 patients. The mean duration of diabetes mellitus (DM) was 11.37 years. In statistical analysis, CMT (mean 188.80 ± 27.64 μm) positively correlated with mean HbA1c level (7.95 ± 1.29%) (r = 0.238, p < .05). There was a significant difference in CMT values among the three groups of HbA1c (F (2,109) = 19.39, p < .001). Post hoc analysis showed statistical significance between HbA1c≤7% and HbA1c ≥9% group and HbA1c 7%–9% and ≥9% group. However, statistical significance was not found among HbA1c ≤7% group and HbA1c 7%–9% group. Multiple regression analyses showed a significant correlation between CMT and HbA1c after adjusting for age and duration of diabetes.

Conclusion

Serum HbA1c level has a significant correlation with CMT in diabetic patients.
Rational Design of LDH/Zn2SnO4 Heterostructures for Efficient Mineralization of Toluene Through Boosted Interfacial Charge Separation
Authors: Lei Ben , Cui Wen , Chen Peng , Chen Ruimin , Sun Yanjuan , Kim Ki‐Hyun , Dong Fan
Published: October 2021

It is crucial to efficiently separate and transport photo‐induced charge carriers for the effective implementation of photocatalysis toward environmental remediation. A rational design strategy is proposed to validate such proposition through the construction of an interfacial structure in the form of LDH/Zn2SnO4 heterostructures in this research. The interfacial charge transfer on LDH/Zn2SnO4 is greatly promoted via the unique charge transfer pathway, as characterized by transient photocurrent responses, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum, and photoluminescence analysis. As such, it contributes to the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the activation of reactants for the mineralization of toluene. According to the in situ DRIFTS spectra analysis, the accumulation of benzoic acid takes place possibly through the partial oxidation of the methyl group on toluene at the interface of the LDH/Zn2SnO4 heterostructure. This process can greatly promote the photocatalytic oxidation of toluene with the enhanced ring‐opening efficiency. The LDH/Zn2SnO4 is thus demonstrated as superior photocatalyst against toluene (removal efficiency of 89.5%; mineralization of 83.1%; and quantum efficiency of 4.55 × 10−6 molecules/photon). As such, the performance of this composite far exceeds that of their individual components (e.g., P25, pure Mg‐Al LDH, or Zn2SnO4). This study is expected to offer a new path to the interfacial charge transfer mechanism based on the design of highly efficient photocatalysts for air purification.
Aeolian sand transport thresholds in excavated foredune notches
Authors: Nguyen Duc , Hilton Michael , Wakes Sarah
Published: October 2021

Excavation of ‘notches’ in foredunes aims to facilitate sand transport through the foredune zone to enhance biodiversity and increase foredune resilience. Recent research has examined notch morphodynamics, however, the underlying aeolian processes in relation to sand transport have not been examined. This study determines: (i) the critical incident wind conditions resulting in sand transport inside the notch; and (ii) the pattern of wind flow and sand deposition/erosion inside the notch.

Secondary winds are recorded using 12 ultrasonic anemometers deployed at cross‐notch stations and compared with incident winds measured on a mast 6.5 m above foredune crest. Instantaneous sand transport is recorded using 12 laser particle counters located on four masts across the notch. Sand deposition is measured using erosion pins and digital surface models derived from remotely piloted aerial system. Field data are used to validate Computational Fluid Dynamic wind flow simulations to provide three‐dimensional wind direction and speed contours in the notch. The study area is St Kilda Beach, Dunedin, New Zealand.

Sand transport occurs inside the notch when incident wind speed and approach angle are 15 ms−1, 17 ms−1 and 23 ms−1 and 40°, 48° and 55°, respectively, to the notch orientation. When the incident wind speed and direction is 15 ms−1 and 40°, respectively, wind speed inside the notch at the western side (upwind) (6.2 ms−1) is lower than at the eastern side (8 ms−1), resulting in deposition on the western side and erosion on the eastern side. The near‐surface wind directions are at an angle (14°) to notch orientation toward the northwest and result in deposition on the western side of the depositional lobe downwind of the notch. These results assist dune managers to determine the appropriate notch angle to the prevailing wind direction, to maximise sand transport through the notch in a wide range of conditions.
Experimental insights into the effect of event sequencing and sediment input texture on step‐pool channel evolution
Authors: Wang Jiamei , Hassan Marwan A. , Saletti Matteo , Chen Xingyu , Fu Xudong , Zhou Hongwei , Yang Xingguo
Published: October 2021

We conducted flume experiments in a step‐pool channel with different sediment supply regimes to explore how the sequencing and the grain‐size of sediment pulses affect channel evolution. Our results show that the sequencing of events is not a primary control as the trends in flow characteristics, bedload transport, sediment storage, step evolution, and step frequency were similar in feed phases with different sequencing of sediment pulses. Channel adjustment and step stability in a short timescale (i.e., in a 4‐h run) were mostly controlled by the magnitude and frequency of sediment pulses. A coarser sediment feed mixture led to a coarser bed surface which increased both sediment storage in the channel and step stability. Our experiments show that channel evolution in a step‐pool channel is primarily controlled by the magnitude and frequency of sediment pulses and the grain size of sediment supply rather than the event sequencing of sediment pulses.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG as dietary supplement improved survival from lipopolysaccharides‐induced sepsis in mice
Authors: Tsui Ko‐Chung , Yen Ting‐Lin , Huang Chi‐Jung , Hong Kun‐Jing
Published: October 2021

Sepsis is a state of host immune response triggered by virus or bacterial infection, in which the extent of regional and systemic inflammation and companion counter‐inflammatory reactions determines disease outcomes. Probiotics are known for the immunomodulatory effect on allergic disorders, but it is not clear whether the beneficiary effect extends to sepsis and increases survival. In this mouse model, we injected intraperitoneally lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to induce sepsis, and investigated whether the pretreatment of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) contributed to host survival and examined the alteration of the gut microbiota and blood cytokines/chemokines profile before sepsis induction. Four‐week‐old male BALB/c mice were divided into two groups: one group were fed daily with LGG as a dietary supplement for fourteen days, whereas the other group with sterile water. Before sepsis induction, some mice from each group were killed to collect stool in the intestine and blood for microbial metagenomic and cytokine/chemokine analyses, respectively, and the rest were monitored afterward for mortality. The relative abundance of several families in the gut microbiota after LGG treatment was altered as well as the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes. In addition, several pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as G‐CSF, IL7, IL15, and MCP1 were lower in the LGG group than in the control group. The survival rate following LPS‐induced sepsis improved with LGG treatment. Our results indicated that dietary supplement of probiotic LGG improved survival from LPS‐induced sepsis, most likely through pre‐septic changes in the gut microbial constituents by LGG with reciprocal alteration of host immune system to a less reactive state to incoming pathogens.
Comparison of myeloid neoplasms with nonclassic 3q26.2/MECOM versus classic inv(3)/t(3;3) rearrangements reveals diverse clinicopathologic features, genetic profiles, and molecular mechanisms of MECOM activation
Authors: Gao Juehua , Gurbuxani Sandeep , Zak Taylor , Kocherginsky Masha , Ji Peng , Wehbe Firas , Chen Qing , Chen Yi‐Hua , Lu Xinyan , Jennings Lawrence , Frankfurt Olga , Altman Jessica , Sukhanova Madina
Published: October 2021

MECOM rearrangements are recurrent in myeloid neoplasms and associated with poor prognosis. However, only inv(3)(q21q26.2) and t(3;3)(q21;q26.2), the classic MECOM rearrangements resulting in RPN1‐MECOM rearrangement with Mecom overexpression and GATA2 haploinsufficiency, define the distinct subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and serve as presumptive evidence for myelodysplastic syndrome based on the current World Health Organization classification. Myeloid neoplasms with nonclassic 3q26.2/MECOM rearrangements have been found to be clinically aggressive, but comparative analysis of clinicopathologic and genomic features is limited. We retrospectively studied cohorts of myeloid neoplasms with classic and nonclassic MECOM rearrangements. Cases with classic rearrangements consisted predominantly of AML, often with inv(3) or t(3;3) as the sole chromosome abnormality, whereas the group of nonclassic rearrangements included a variety of myeloid neoplasms, often with complex karyotype without TP53 mutations and similarly dismal overall survival. Immunohistochemistry revealed Mecom protein overexpression in both groups, but overexpression in cases with nonclassic rearrangements was mediated through a mechanism other than GATA2 distal enhancer involvement typical for classic rearrangement. Our results demonstrated that myeloid neoplasms with nonclassic 3q26.2/MECOM rearrangements encompass a diverse group of diseases with poor clinical outcome, overexpression of Mecom protein as a result of the nonclassic mechanism of MECOM activation.
Violence and newborn health: Estimates for Colombia
Authors: Rodríguez Laura
Published: October 2021

This paper examines the relationship between maternal exposure to violence during pregnancy and newborn birthweight. The identification strategy exploits variation in the timing of exposure and in the geographic location of expectant mothers across Colombian municipalities. Exposure to violence in early pregnancy had a large negative impact on birthweight, primarily for boys, and the effect was mitigated by their mothers' education. Girls' birthweight was affected mainly by shocks in later stages of gestation. Furthermore, their mothers were more likely to engage in potentially harmful behaviors during the pregnancy. This evidence exposes the importance of parental responses in shaping the effect of exposure to violence on newborn health.