bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wetland management practices and secretive marsh bird habitat in the Mississippi Flyway: a review
Authors: Malone Kristen M. , Webb Elisabeth B. , Mengel Doreen C. , Kearns Laura J. , McKellar Ann E. , Matteson Sumner W. , Williams Benjamin R.
Published: June 2023

Management regimes on publicly owned freshwater wetlands in the Mississippi Flyway of North America (i.e., Flyway) have historically emphasized waterfowl, but there is limited information on how waterfowl‐focused wetland management affects other wetland‐dependent wildlife. Secretive marsh birds (SMBs) depend on wetlands with emergent vegetation throughout their migratory life cycle and often encounter vegetation and water conditions resulting from waterfowl‐focused management regimes. Thus, there is a need for better understanding of how SMBs are affected by wetland management and the extent to which waterfowl‐focused management regimes provide habitat for SMBs. In this review, we identify the vegetation and water conditions resulting from typical management objectives on freshwater emergent wetlands in the Flyway, review and qualitatively synthesize results from studies that directly evaluate how wetland management practices affect SMBs or their habitat, and assess how the vegetation and water conditions being produced for target species (mainly waterfowl) align with SMB habitat requirements. We searched online databases and used Google Scholar to locate peer‐reviewed literature, technical reports, and graduate theses that pertained to responses of SMBs or their habitat to water‐level manipulation, herbicide application, prescribed fire, disking, mowing, and planting crops. There are several management strategies that complement SMBs and waterfowl, such as reducing cover of woody species and providing flooded emergent vegetation. We also highlight management strategies that may not currently align with SMB life‐cycle needs and suggest adjustments that might promote habitat for SMBs while still achieving waterfowl population objectives. For example, adjusting the dates and duration of spring water‐level drawdowns on a portion of wetlands within a larger complex can provide for spring migrating waterfowl and ensure habitat for migrating and nesting SMBs. Ideally, future studies would address how modifications to management practices affect SMBs and monitor potential effects on waterfowl, resulting in a more holistic approach to wetland management.
Shifts in soil microbial diversity and functions during continuous cropping of strawberry
Authors: Yang Tongyi , Zhai Deli , Ding Xu , Guo Zechong , Zhao Yuyuan
Published: June 2023

Soil microbial community is particularly essential in the sustainable cropping systems, which may partially account for the vulnerability of soils in continuous cropping (CC). However, the succession patterns and drivers of microbial communities in CC strawberry fields need to be further elucidated. Shifts in the structure and function of soil bacteria and fungi during strawberry CC (0, 2, 5, 15, and 18 years) were investigated using the Illumina MiSeq sequencing technology. The results demonstrated declines in diversity, richness index, and bacterial/fungal ratios in long‐term CC soils. Variance partition analysis identified pH, available nitrogen, and available phosphorus as primary environmental factors affecting bacterial communities, whereas pH, available potassium, and available phosphorus dominated fungal communities. During strawberry CC, the relative abundances of the major genera Bacillus, Trichoderma, and Arthrobotrys first rose and then declined, while those of the other main genera Sclerotiniaceae and Fusarium gradually rose. Furthermore, the microbial functional annotation revealed that CC significantly altered the functional microbial flora, with a marked decrease in the relative abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, but an increase in those of potential plant fungal pathogens in CC soils. The structural equation model revealed that CC significantly affected pH and potential plant fungal pathogens, with a standardized total effects of −0.77 and 0.82, respectively. Thus, strawberry CC significantly altered soil physicochemical properties, microbial communities and functions. These results provide theoretical guidance for the ecological restoration of strawberry CC sickness.
Terahertz Scanless Hypertemporal Imaging
Authors: Zanotto Luca , Balistreri Giacomo , Rovere Andrea , Kwon O‐Pil , Morandotti Roberto , Piccoli Riccardo , Razzari Luca
Published: June 2023

Since its first demonstration in 1995, terahertz time‐domain imaging has attracted an increasingly growing interest for its ability to reveal spectral fingerprints of materials and probe changes in refractive index and absorption, as well as detect the inner structure of complex objects via time‐of‐flight measurements. Practically, however, its widespread use has been hampered by the very long acquisition time typically required to spatially raster‐scan the object, and for each spatial point, record the field in time via a delay line. Here, this fundamental bottleneck is addressed by implementing a scanless single‐pixel imaging scheme, which sets the path for an unprecedented reduction of both system complexity and acquisition time. By properly exploiting natural wave diffraction, time‐to‐space encoding applied to terahertz point detection allows for an almost instantaneous capture of the terahertz waveforms, while multidimensional images are reconstructed via a computational approach. The scheme is a promising solution for the development of next‐generation fast and compact terahertz imagers perfectly suitable for high‐repetition‐rate laser sources.
Description of K‐spaces by means of J‐spaces and the reverse problem in the limiting real interpolation
Authors: Opic Bohumír , Grover Manvi
Published: June 2023

We establish conditions under which K‐spaces in the limiting real interpolation involving slowly varying functions can be described by means of J‐spaces and we also solve the reverse problem. To this end, we prove several versions of the fundamental lemma of the real interpolation theory. We apply our results to obtain density theorems for the corresponding limiting interpolation spaces.
The global existence of L∞$L^{\infty }$ solutions to isentropic Euler equations in general nozzle
Authors: Lu Yun‐guang , Chen Jianjun , Jiang Weifeng , Klingenberg Christian , You Guoqiao
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study the global entropy solutions for the Cauchy problem of the isentropic gas dynamics system in a general nozzle with bounded initial date. First, we apply for the flux‐approximation technique coupled with the classical viscosity method to obtain the estimates of the viscosity solutions. Second, we prove the pointwise convergence of the approximation solutions by using the compactness framework for any adiabatic exponent .
Operational and financing decisions of a contract manufacturer under remanufacturing authorization strategy
Authors: Ma Peng , Li Mingdu
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the remanufacturing authorization strategy has widely drawn the attention of practitioners to solve the contradictions and conflicts between contract manufacturers (CMs) and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). However, few studies about authorization remanufacturing consider that the CM is restricted by the limited initial capital. To fill this gap, we build a supply chain with a capital‐constrained CM and an OEM, where the CM can choose the bank financing or the OEM financing. Our results show that when the wholesale prices are exogenous, the CM will choose the OEM financing strategy if the bank's interest rate is in a relatively low or high range. Conversely, the OEM will not offer financing to the CM under the endogenous wholesale prices. Furthermore, it is interesting to find that the authorization fee under the bank financing is always higher than that under the OEM financing.
The effect of online reviews' information on quality and pricing decisions
Authors: Feng Lin , Yang Yuxuan , Lv Jie
Published: June 2023

Consumers often rely on the peer reviews to make smart purchase decisions in the face of new experience products. Such information is also available to firms, which can help them learn about consumers' purchase intention and hence better deal with the tripartite price–quality–demand relationship. In this study, we develop a two‐period model to examine the impact of online reviews on product quality and price decisions. The market is characterized by the two‐dimensional heterogeneity of customer valuation and their willingness to pay for quality. Interestingly, we find that the informativeness of reviews plays different roles in firm–consumer interactions depending on the market's average willingness to pay (AWTP). Such informativeness exerts an information value‐added on both the firm and consumers in a high‐AWTP market and a negative impact in a low‐AWTP market. These two effects respectively induce consumers to purchase more in the high‐AWTP market while expel consumers from the market in the low‐AWTP market. We also compare the price path and quality level under commitment pricing and dynamic pricing both with and without informativeness, the results of which show that the information inducing effect changes the marketing strategies for new products. Furthermore, we present the conditions on which the firm should strive to disclose its quality information and explore the difference of firms' decisions in monopoly and competitive market.
Complex interplay between the immune system, metabolism, and epigenetic factors in autoimmune liver diseases
Authors: Xu Ya‐Fei , Zhao Zhi‐Bin , Yan Ethan P. , Lian Zhe‐Xiong , Zhang Weici
Published: June 2023

Autoimmune liver diseases (ALDs) are chronic inflammatory hepatobiliary diseases in which the autoimmune responses directed against liver tissue result in inflammation and tissue damage. There are several types of ALDs, including autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, immunoglobulin G4‐related sclerosing cholangitis, and overlap syndromes. Metabolism and epigenetics are both critical components of the development and progression of ALDs. Immunometabolism addresses how metabolic processes influence immune cell development, fate and behavior, and how immune responses impact metabolism. In the context of immunity, epigenetics involves regulating gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic modifications can ultimately result in changes in the immunophenotype. The interplay between the immune system, metabolism, and epigenetic factors is highly complex. A better understanding of this interplay and the regulatory mechanisms involved is crucial to uncover the disease pathogenesis of ALDs and exploring novel therapeutic options. This article provides a comprehensive review of the dysregulation of immunometabolism and epigenetics, as well as the multilevel regulatory mechanisms, underlying the autoimmunity in ALDs.
Review of oxygen‐enhanced lung mri: Pulse sequences for image acquisition and T1 measurement
Authors: Xu Pengfei , Meersmann Thomas , Wang Jing , Wang Chengbo
Published: June 2023

Oxygen‐enhanced MR imaging (OE‐MRI) is a special proton imaging technique that can be performed without modifying the scanner hardware. Many fundamental studies have been conducted following the initial reporting of this technique in 1996, illustrating the high potential for its clinical application. This review aims to summarise and analyse current pulse sequences and T1 measurement methods for OE‐MRI, including fundamental theories, existing pulse sequences applied to OE‐MRI acquisition and T1 mapping. Wash‐in and wash‐out time identify lung function and are sensitive to ventilation; thus, dynamic OE‐MRI is also discussed in this review. We compare OE‐MRI with the primary competitive technique, hyperpolarised gas MRI. Finally, an overview of lower‐field applications of OE‐MRI is highlighted, as relatively recent publications demonstrated positive results. Lower‐field OE‐MRI, which is lower than 1.5 T, could be an alternative modality for detecting lung diseases. This educational review is aimed at researchers who want a quick summary of the steps needed to perform pulmonary OE‐MRI with a particular focus on sequence design, settings, and quantification methods.
Deep learning framework to improve the quality of cone‐beam computed tomography for radiotherapy scenarios
Authors: Yang Bining , Liu Yuxiang , Zhu Ji , Dai Jianrong , Men Kuo
Published: June 2023

Background

The application of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) in image‐guided radiotherapy and adaptive radiotherapy remains limited due to its poor image quality.

Purpose

In this study, we aim to develop a deep learning framework to generate high‐quality CBCT images for therapeutic applications.

Methods

The synthetic CT (sCT) generation from the CBCT was proposed using a transformer‐based network with a hybrid loss function. The network was trained and validated using the data from 176 patients to produce a general model that can be extensively applied to enhance CBCT images. After the first therapy, each patient can receive paired CBCT/planning CT (pCT) scans, and the obtained data were used to fine‐tune the general model for further improvement. For subsequent treatment, a patient‐specific, personalized model was made available. In total, 34 patients were examined for general model testing, and another six patients who underwent rescanned pCT scan were used for personalized model training and testing.

Results

The general model decreased the mean absolute error (MAE) from 135 HU to 59 HU as compared to the CBCT. The hybrid loss function demonstrated superior performance in CT number correction and noise/artifacts reduction. The proposed transformer‐based network also showed superior power in CT number correction compared to the classical convolutional neural network. The personalized model showed improvement based on the general model in some details, and the MAE was reduced from 59 HU (for the general model) to 57 HU (p < 0.05 Wilcoxon signed‐rank test).

Conclusion

We established a deep learning framework based on transformer for clinical needs. The deep learning model demonstrated potential for continuous improvement with the help of a suggested personalized training strategy compatible with the clinical workflow.
A theoretical study of H2O2 as the surrogate of dose in minibeam radiotherapy, with a diffusion model considering radical removal process
Authors: Zhang Tengda , García‐Calderón Daniel , Molina‐Hernández Miguel , Leitão Joana , Hesser Jürgen , Seco Joao
Published: June 2023

Background

Minibeam radiation therapy (MBRT) is an innovative dose delivery method with the potential to spare normal tissue while achieving similar tumor control as conventional radiotherapy. However, it is difficult to use a single dose parameter, such as mean dose, to compare different patterns of MBRT due to the spatially fractionated radiation. Also, the mechanism leading to the biological effects is still unknown.

Purpose

This study aims to demonstrate that the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) distribution could serve as a surrogate of dose distribution when comparing different patterns of MBRT.

Methods

A free diffusion model (FDM) for H2O2 developed with Fick's second law was compared with a previously published model based on Monte Carlo & convolution method. Since cells form separate compartments that can eliminate H2O2 radicals diffusing inside the cell, a term describing the elimination was introduced into the equation. The FDM and the diffusion model considering removal (DMCR) were compared by simulating various dose rate irradiation schemes and uniform irradiation. Finally, the DMCR was compared with previous microbeam and minibeam animal experiments.

Results

Compared with a previous Monte Carlo & Convolution method, this analytical method provides more accurate results. Furthermore, the new model shows H2O2 concentration distribution instead of the time to achieve a certain H2O2 uniformity. The comparison between FDM and DMCR showed that H2O2 distribution from FDM varied with dose rate irradiation, while DMCR had consistent results. For uniform irradiation, FDM resulted in a Gaussian distribution, while the H2O2 distribution from DMCR was close to the dose distribution. The animal studies’ evaluation showed a correlation between the H2O2 concentration in the valley region and treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

DMCR is a more realistic model for H2O2 simulation than the FDM. In addition, the H2O2 distribution can be a good surrogate of dose distribution when the minibeam effect could be observed.
Low‐field MRI: A report on the 2022 ISMRM workshop
Authors: Campbell‐Washburn Adrienne E. , Keenan Kathryn E. , Hu Peng , Mugler John P. , Nayak Krishna S. , Webb Andrew G. , Obungoloch Johnes , Sheth Kevin N. , Hennig Jürgen , Rosen Matthew S. , Salameh Najat , Sodickson Daniel K. , Stein Joel M. , Marques José P. , Simonetti Orlando P.
Published: June 2023

In March 2022, the first ISMRM Workshop on Low‐Field MRI was held virtually. The goals of this workshop were to discuss recent low field MRI technology including hardware and software developments, novel methodology, new contrast mechanisms, as well as the clinical translation and dissemination of these systems. The virtual Workshop was attended by 368 registrants from 24 countries, and included 34 invited talks, 100 abstract presentations, 2 panel discussions, and 2 live scanner demonstrations. Here, we report on the scientific content of the Workshop and identify the key themes that emerged. The subject matter of the Workshop reflected the ongoing developments of low‐field MRI as an accessible imaging modality that may expand the usage of MRI through cost reduction, portability, and ease of installation. Many talks in this Workshop addressed the use of computational power, efficient acquisitions, and contemporary hardware to overcome the SNR limitations associated with low field strength. Participants discussed the selection of appropriate clinical applications that leverage the unique capabilities of low‐field MRI within traditional radiology practices, other point‐of‐care settings, and the broader community. The notion of “image quality” versus “information content” was also discussed, as images from low‐field portable systems that are purpose‐built for clinical decision‐making may not replicate the current standard of clinical imaging. Speakers also described technical challenges and infrastructure challenges related to portability and widespread dissemination, and speculated about future directions for the field to improve the technology and establish clinical value.
Investigation of contrast mechanisms for MRI phase signal‐based proton beam visualization in water phantoms
Authors: Schieferecke Juliane , Gantz Sebastian , Hoffmann Aswin , Pawelke Jörg
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The low sensitivity and limitation to water phantoms of convection‐dependent MRI magnitude signal‐based proton beam visualization hinder its in vivo applicability in MR‐integrated proton beam therapy. The purpose of the present study was, therefore, to assess possible contrast mechanisms for MRI phase signal‐based proton beam visualization that can potentially be exploited to enhance the sensitivity of the method and extend its applicability to tissue materials.

Methods

To assess whether proton beam‐induced magnetic field perturbations, changes in material susceptibility or convection result in detectable changes in the MRI phase signal, water phantom characteristics, experiment timing, and imaging parameters were varied in combined irradiation and imaging experiments using a time‐of‐flight angiography pulse sequence on a prototype in‐beam MRI scanner. Velocity encoding was used to further probe and quantify beam‐induced convection.

Results

MRI phase signal‐based proton beam visualization proved feasible. The observed phase difference contrast was evoked by beam‐induced buoyant convection with flow velocities in the mm/s range. Proton beam‐induced magnetic field perturbations or changes in magnetic susceptibility did not influence the MRI phase signal. Velocity encoding was identified as a means to enhance the detection sensitivity.

Conclusion

Because the MRI phase difference contrast observed during proton beam irradiation of water phantoms is caused by beam‐induced convection, this method will unlikely be transferable to tightly compartmentalized tissue wherein flow effects are restricted. However, strong velocity encoded pulse sequences were identified as promising candidates for the future development of MRI‐based methods for water phantom‐based geometric quality assurance in MR‐integrated proton beam therapy.
A comparison of phase unwrapping methods in velocity‐encoded MRI for aortic flows
Authors: Löcke Miriam , Garay Labra Jeremias Esteban , Franco Pamela , Uribe Sergio , Bertoglio Cristóbal
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The phase of a MRI signal is used to encode the velocity of blood flow. Phase unwrapping artifacts may appear when aiming to improve the velocity‐to‐noise ratio (VNR) of the measured velocity field. This study aims to compare various unwrapping algorithms on ground‐truth synthetic data generated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations.

Methods

We compare four different phase unwrapping algorithms on two different synthetic datasets of four‐dimensional flow MRI and 26 datasets of 2D PC‐MRI acquisitions including the ascending and descending aorta. The synthetic datasets are constructed using CFD simulations of an aorta with a coarctation, with different levels of spatiotemporal resolutions and noise. The error of the unwrapped images was assessed by comparison against the ground truth velocity field in the synthetic data and dual‐VENC reconstructions in the in vivo data.

Results

Using the unwrapping algorithms, we were able to remove aliased voxels in the data almost entirely, reducing the L2‐error compared to the ground truth by 50%–80%. Results indicated that the best choice of algorithm depend on the spatiotemporal resolution and noise level of the dataset. Temporal unwrapping is most successful with a high temporal and low spatial resolution ( ms,  mm), reducing the L2‐error by 70%–85%, while Laplacian unwrapping performs better with a lower temporal or better spatial resolution ( ms, mm), especially for signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) 12 as opposed to SNR 15, with an error reduction of 55%–85% compared to the 50%–75% achieved by the Temporal method. The differences in performance between the methods are statistically significant.

Conclusions

The temporal method and spatiotemporal Laplacian method provide the best results, with the spatiotemporal Laplacian being more robust. However, single‐ methods only situationally and not generally reach the performance of dual‐ unwrapping methods.
Sensitivity and specificity of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale—Revised to detect dysarthria in individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Donohue Cara , Chapin Jennifer L. , Anderson Amber , DiBiase Lauren , Gray Lauren Tabor , Wymer James P. , Plowman Emily K.
Published: June 2023

Introduction/Aims

Given the widespread use of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale‐Revised (ALSFRS‐R) to measure disease progression in ALS and recent reports demonstrating its poor sensitivity, we aimed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the ALSFRS‐R bulbar subscale and speech item to detect validated clinical ratings of dysarthria in individuals with ALS.

Methods

Paired ALSFRS‐R and validated Speech Intelligibility Test (SIT) data from individuals with ALS were analyzed. Trained raters completed duplicate, independent, and blinded ratings of audio recordings to obtain speech intelligibility (%) and speaking rate (words per minute, WPM). Binary dysarthria profiles were derived (dysarthria ≤96% intelligible and/or <150 WPM). Data were obtained using the Kruskal‐Wallis test, receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve, area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity and specificity percentages, and positive/negative predictive values (PPV/NPV).

Results

A total of 250 paired SIT and ALSFRS‐R data points were analyzed. Dysarthria was confirmed in 72.4% (n = 181). Dysarthric speakers demonstrated lower ALSFRS‐R bulbar subscale (8.9 vs. 11.2) and speech item (2.7 vs. 3.7) scores (P < .0001). The ALSFRS‐R bulbar subscale score had an AUC of 0.81 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75 to 0.86). A subscale score of ≤11 yielded a sensitivity of 86%, specificity of 57%, PPV of 84%, and NPV of 60% to correctly identify dysarthria status. The ALSFRS‐R speech item score demonstrated an AUC of 0.81 to detect dysarthria (95% CI 0.76 to 0.85), with sensitivity of 79%, specificity of 75%, PPV of 89%, and NPV of 58% for a speech item cutpoint of ≤3.

Discussion

The ALSFRS‐R bulbar and speech item subscale scores may be useful, inexpensive, and quick tools for monitoring dysarthria status in ALS.
Classification of transient epileptic amnesia attacks: Two types of amnestic seizures, the pure amnesia type and partial amnesia type
Authors: Ukai Katsuyuki , Ito Masumi , Watanabe Masako
Published: June 2023

Aim

Transient epileptic amnesia (TEA) is a type of mesial temporal lobe epilepsy characterized by recurrent amnesia attacks. In 1998, Zeman et al. proposed the following diagnostic criteria for TEA: (1) recurrent, witnessed episodes of amnesia (TEA attacks); (2) other cognitive functions remain intact during attacks; and (3) evidence of epilepsy. It was also reported that patients with TEA often demonstrate two other types of memory symptoms: accelerated long‐term forgetting (ALF) and autobiographical amnesia (AbA). Both ALF and AbA are persistent memory disorders, but transient epileptic seizures are not.

Methods

We encountered two cases of TEA associated with two types of amnesia attacks. Therefore, we reviewed TEA cases in the literature to clarify the type of TEA attacks that occurred.

Results

Based on the extracted TEA cases, including our two cases, we found that there are two main types of TEA attacks, and we discussed their clinical features.

Conclusion

We propose two main types of TEA attacks; that is, pure amnesia‐type and partial amnesia‐type seizures. Furthermore, we also propose that topographical amnesia mainly manifests as a type of amnesia attack, rather than as a chronic memory disturbance, such as ALF or AbA.
Identifying inpatient mortality in MarketScan claims data using machine learning
Authors: Xie Fenglong , Beukelman Timothy , Sun Dongmei , Yun Huifeng , Curtis Jeffrey R.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Inpatient mortality is an important variable in epidemiology studies using claims data. In 2016, MarketScan data began obscuring specific hospital discharge status types for patient privacy, including inpatient deaths, by setting the values to missing. We used a machine learning approach to correctly identify hospitalizations that resulted in inpatient death using data prior to 2016.

Methods

All hospitalizations from 2011 to 2015 with discharge status of missing, died, or one of the other subsequently obscured values were identified and divided into a training set and two test sets. Predictor variables included age, sex, elapsed time from hospital discharge until last observed claim and until healthcare plan disenrollment, and absence of any discharge diagnoses. Four machine learning methods were used to train statistical models and assess sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) for inpatient mortality.

Results

Overall 1 307 917 hospitalizations were included. All four machine learning approaches performed well in all datasets. Random forest performed best with 88% PPV and 93% sensitivity for the training set and both test sets. The two factors with the highest relative importance for identifying inpatient mortality were having no observed claims for the patient on days 2–91 following hospital discharge and patient disenrollment from the healthcare plan within 60 days following hospital discharge.

Conclusion

We successfully developed machine learning algorithms to identify inpatient mortality. This approach can be applied to obscured data to accurately identify inpatient mortality among hospitalizations with missing discharge status.
Teacher–student relationships and peer victimization among Chinese children: The roles of peer status and gender
Authors: Fang Xin , Liu Shifan , Wang Meifang
Published: June 2023

Previous studies have shown that peer victimization causes a great variety of severe adverse effects on children's development, and it is necessary to explore the influential factors and mechanisms of peer victimization. This study examined the associations between teacher–student relationships and peer victimization, as well as the roles of peer status and gender in China. The participants were 734 primary school students from Grades 5 ~ 6. Structural equation models were conducted to test the roles of peer status in the associations between teacher–student relationships and peer victimization, as well as the gender differences in the above associations. The findings showed that teacher–student closeness negatively predicted peer victimization, and teacher–student conflict positively predicted peer victimization. It was also found that teacher–student conflict but not closeness could negatively predict peer status, which was in turn negatively associated with peer victimization. The above associations did not vary across genders. The findings indicated that both teacher–student closeness and conflict were directly associated with children's peer victimization, and teacher–student conflict was indirectly associated with peer victimization via peer status. This implies that interventions for decreasing children's peer victimization should not only focus on improving teacher–student relationships but also target peer status.
The temporal behavior of O atom of a nonequilibrium atmospheric pressure plasma driven by kHz nanosecond voltage pulses
Authors: Wang LanPing , Nie LanLan , Liu DaWei , Laroussi Mounir , Lu XinPei
Published: June 2023

This work investigates the temporal dynamics of O atoms in nonequilibrium atmospheric pressure plasma (NAPP) generated by kHz nanosecond pulsed discharge. Two‐photon laser‐induced fluorescence (TALIF) method is used to measure the time resolution of O atom density from the first discharge pulse in two gas mixtures, He + 0.4%O2 and He + 0.4%air. The discharge frequencies of 1 and 10 kHz are considered in the experiment. The results show that the O atom density does not accumulate with increasing number of pulses in both gas environments at 1 kHz. However, at 10 kHz, a cumulative effect of O atom density with the number of pulses is observed in both gas mixtures. After 10 and 300 discharge pulses in He + 0.4%O2 and He + 0.4%air, respectively, the O atom density saturates at the same moment after each discharge cycle. It was found that even after a long operating period of discharge, the decay of O atom density during each discharge cycle is not negligible. The O atom density in He + 0.4%O2 varies in the range of 2.85 × 1021 m−3–4.29 × 1021 m−3 while the O atom density in He + 0.4%air varies in the range of 2.60 × 1021 m−3–3.19 × 1021 m−3. This indicates that the choice of diagnostic time points is important for the O atom density measurements when using TALIF to diagnose kHz pulsed NAPP. In addition, 0D plasma chemical kinetics models are developed for the two gas mixtures to investigate O atoms' production and consumption processes. The causes of the cumulative effect of O atom density at 10 kHz, the saturation effect, and the formation of the periodic variation trend are also investigated. The simulation results show that the consumption rate of O atoms and the O atom density are directly correlated. As the number of pulses increases, the O atom consumption rate increases, which gradually counteracts the number of O atoms generated during the pulse discharge. This leads to delay and saturation of the cumulative effect of O atoms.
Are intellectual property policies for gene‐edited crops fit for purpose? The perspectives of German scientists
Authors: Glenna Leland L.
Published: June 2023

Societal Impact Statement

A growing body of research indicates that intellectual property policies for agricultural biotechnologies are hindering research and limiting the use of the technologies. Research also indicates that public resistance to agricultural biotechnologies, including transgenic and gene‐edited crops, is at least in part motivated by concerns about intellectual property restrictions. Therefore, changing the policies governing agricultural biotechnologies promises to reduce public resistance and to enhance the diffusion of research outputs. Because so many patents related to gene editing are held by universities and because so much cutting‐edge research is conducted by public scientists, exploring the scientists' perspectives on these policies offers insights into possibilities for policy changes.

After the European Court of Justice's ruling that gene‐edited crops would be regulated the way transgenic crops are regulated, the European Commission consulted with stakeholders and concluded that policies governing gene‐edited crops are not fit for purpose. This research explores whether public scientists in Germany also consider intellectual property policies not fit for purpose.

The data come from intensive interviews with 10 scientists working at German universities and research institutes.

The interviewed scientists describe how intellectual property policies limited the use of transgenic breeding techniques and how they now limit applications of gene‐editing techniques. They overwhelmingly support policy changes that facilitate the use of their scientific breakthroughs to solve problems in the world, and they do not want to see large companies use the technologies to consolidate economic power or to profit at the expense of solving problems.

Because intellectual property policies are often cited as a key reason for the resistance to agricultural biotechnologies and because research indicates that current policies are not enhancing crop innovations or social welfare, a change in intellectual property policies is likely to reduce resistance to the new crop breeding technologies and yield more social benefits.
Development of bright red‐shifted miRFP704nano using structural analysis of miRFPnano proteins
Authors: Oliinyk Olena S. , Pletnev Sergei , Baloban Mikhail , Verkhusha Vladislav V.
Published: June 2023

We recently converted the GAF domain of NpR3784 cyanobacteriochrome into near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent proteins (FPs). Unlike cyanobacterichrome, which incorporates phycocyanobilin tetrapyrrole, engineered NIR FPs bind biliverdin abundant in mammalian cells, thus being the smallest scaffold for it. Here, we determined the crystal structure of the brightest blue‐shifted protein of the series, miRFP670nano3, at 1.8 Å resolution, characterized its chromophore environment and explained the molecular basis of its spectral properties. Using the determined structure, we have rationally designed a red‐shifted NIR FP, termed miRFP704nano, with excitation at 680 nm and emission at 704 nm. miRFP704nano exhibits a small size of 17 kDa, enhanced molecular brightness, photostability and pH‐stability. miRFP704nano performs well in various protein fusions in live mammalian cells and should become a versatile genetically‐encoded NIR probe for multiplexed imaging across spatial scales in different modalities.
Hazards of lithium‐ion battery energy storage systems (BESS), mitigation strategies, minimum requirements, and best practices
Authors: Mylenbusch Ian S. , Claffey Kieran , Chu Benjamin N.
Published: June 2023

In the last few years, the energy industry has seen an exponential increase in the quantity of lithium‐ion (LI) utility‐scale battery energy storage systems (BESS). Standards, codes, and test methods have been developed that address battery safety and are constantly improving as the industry gains more knowledge about BESS. These standards address the minimum requirements for shipping, installation, commissioning, and operation of the battery. In addition to minimum standards, there are recommended practices that enhance the safety of utility‐scale energy storage installations. This paper reviews the recommended practices that, through knowledge and experience with BESS, are being adopted by electric utilities. The focus is on fire, explosion, and toxic emission hazards of thermal runaway events of the battery and their mitigation. The paper also addresses utility considerations of minimum requirements dictated by codes, standards, and expectations of authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and insurance companies. This paper is intended to increase the technical acumen of environmental health and safety personnel and to provide practical information to utilities and developers installing LI BESS.
Discovery of novel phenothiazine derivatives as new agrochemical alternatives for treating plant viral diseases
Authors: Shao Wu‐Bin , Liao Yan‐Mei , Luo Rong‐Shuang , Ji Jin , Xiao Wan‐Lin , Zhou Xiang , Liu Li‐Wei , Yang Song
Published: June 2023

Background

Plant viral diseases, namely ‘plant cancer’, are extremely difficult to control. Even worse, few antiviral agents can effectively control and totally block viral infection. There is an urgent need to explore and discover novel agrochemicals with high activity and a unique mode of action to manage these refractory diseases.

Results

Forty‐one new phenothiazine derivatives were prepared and their inhibitory activity against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) was assessed. Compound A8 had the highest protective activity against TMV, with a half‐maximal effective concentration (EC50) of 115.67 μg/mL, which was significantly better than that of the positive controls ningnanmycin (271.28 μg/mL) and ribavirin (557.47 μg/mL). Biochemical assays demonstrated that compound A8 could inhibit TMV replication by disrupting TMV self‐assembly, but also enabled the tobacco plant to enhance its defense potency by increasing the activities of various defense enzymes.

Conclusion

In this study, novel phenothiazine derivatives were elaborately fabricated and showed remarkable anti‐TMV behavior that possessed the dual‐action mechanisms of inhibiting TMV assembly and invoking the defense responses of tobacco plants. Moreover, new agrochemical alternatives based on phenothiazine were assessed for their antiviral activities and showed extended agricultural application. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Scutellarein alleviates chronic obstructive pulmonary disease through inhibition of ferroptosis by chelating iron and interacting with arachidonate 15‐lipoxygenase
Authors: Liu Lu , Zhang Yunsen , Wang Lun , Liu Yue , Chen Hongqing , Hu Qiongying , Xie Chunguang , Meng Xianli , Shen Xiaofei
Published: June 2023

Ferroptosis, an iron‐dependent cell death characterized by lethal lipid peroxidation, is involved in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathogenesis. Therefore, ferroptosis inhibition represents an attractive strategy for COPD therapy. Herein, we identified natural flavonoid scutellarein as a potent ferroptosis inhibitor for the first time, and characterized its underlying mechanisms for inhibition of ferroptosis and COPD. In vitro, the anti‐ferroptotic activity of scutellarein was investigated through CCK8, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), Western blotting, flow cytometry, and transmission electron microscope (TEM). In vivo, COPD was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/cigarette smoke (CS) and assessed by changes in histopathological, inflammatory, and ferroptotic markers. The mechanisms were investigated by RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq), electrospray ionization mass spectra (ESI‐MS), local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA), and molecular dynamics. Our results showed that scutellarein significantly inhibited Ras‐selective lethal small molecule (RSL)‐3‐induced ferroptosis and mitochondria injury in BEAS‐2B cells, and ameliorated LPS/CS‐induced COPD in mice. Furthermore, scutellarein also repressed RSL‐3‐ or LPS/CS‐induced lipid peroxidation, GPX4 down‐regulation, and overactivation of Nrf2/HO‐1 and JNK/p38 pathways. Mechanistically, scutellarein inhibited RSL‐3‐ or LPS/CS‐induced Fe2+ elevation through directly chelating Fe2+. Moreover, scutellarein bound to the lipid peroxidizing enzyme arachidonate 15‐lipoxygenase (ALOX15), which resulted in an unstable state of the catalysis‐related Fe2+ chelating cluster. Additionally, ALOX15 overexpression partially abolished scutellarein‐mediated anti‐ferroptotic activity. Our findings revealed that scutellarein alleviated COPD by inhibiting ferroptosis via directly chelating Fe2+ and interacting with ALOX15, and also highlighted scutellarein as a candidate for the treatment of COPD and other ferroptosis‐related diseases.
Outlier‐robust zonotope set‐membership filter for discrete‐time nonlinear system
Authors: Yang Bo , Chen Xinxing , Cheng Rong , Huang Jian
Published: June 2023

Transient sensor malfunction, improper replacement measures, and large non‐Gaussian noise can cause data outliers in real‐world scenarios. In this article, an outlier‐robust zonotope set‐membership filter is proposed for uncertain nonlinear systems susceptible to outliers. In order to linearize nonlinear systems, a linearization method based on Stirling's interpolation formula is proposed. Then, an outlier detector utilizing the linearization error bounds, the prediction domain, and the output feasible domain is constructed. Based on the linearized system, a tight strip construction method is given to reduce the conservatism of the estimated enclosure. Moreover, a prediction‐correction‐backward reconstruction filter structure is designed to improve estimation accuracy and reduce conservatism. The proposed structure fuses historical data to attenuate the impact of uncertainty on the system. The robustness, guarantee, and convergence of the proposed filter are investigated. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed approach is evaluated by two simulation examples.
Gray whale detection in satellite imagery using deep learning
Authors: Green Katherine M. , Virdee Mala K. , Cubaynes Hannah C. , Aviles‐Rivero Angelica I. , Fretwell Peter T. , Gray Patrick C. , Johnston David W. , Schönlieb Carola‐Bibiane , Torres Leigh G. , Jackson Jennifer A.
Published: June 2023

The combination of very high resolution (VHR) satellite remote sensing imagery and deep learning via convolutional neural networks provides opportunities to improve global whale population surveys through increasing efficiency and spatial coverage. Many whale species are recovering from commercial whaling and face multiple anthropogenic threats. Regular, accurate population surveys are therefore of high importance for conservation efforts. In this study, a state‐of‐the‐art object detection model (YOLOv5) was trained to detect gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) in VHR satellite images, using training data derived from satellite images spanning different sea states in a key breeding habitat, as well as aerial imagery collected by unoccupied aircraft systems. Varying combinations of aerial and satellite imagery were incorporated into the training set. Mean average precision, whale precision, and recall ranged from 0.823 to 0.922, 0.800 to 0.939, and 0.843 to 0.889, respectively, across eight experiments. The results imply that including aerial imagery in the training data did not substantially impact model performance, and therefore, expansion of representative satellite datasets should be prioritized. The accuracy of the results on real‐world data, along with short training times, indicates the potential of using this method to automate whale detection for population surveys.
Leverage Title V grant funding to scale student success projects on campus
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: June 2023

CHICAGO — Waubonsee Community College, a Hispanic‐serving institution an hour west of Chicago, has been awarded three consecutive Title V grants, starting in 2010, for building equity and helping scale projects that lead to increased completion rates for Latino/Latina and adult students.
Microlevers™ — small moves for big workplace culture change
Authors: Freebairn‐Smith Laura
Published: June 2023

Higher education professionals can use small actions to create greater, better, more joyous, more engaged workplace cultures.
Perceptions of the academic community on the performance of sustainable development initiatives in higher education
Authors: Filho Walter Leal , de Vasconcelos Claudio Ruy Portela , Ferreira Paula , Araújo M. Madalena , Berenguer Alessandra , Almeida Nadjacleia , Fritzen Gomes Bárbara , Júnior Joácio Morais , Colombo Ciliana Regina , Lira Walleci Gabeu , Agostinho Thatiana Lira Alves
Published: June 2023

Since the UN Conference on the Human Environment was held in Stockholm in 1972, higher education institutions (HEIs) have been adapting to assume their social role in supporting societies in promoting sustainable lifestyles. However, HEIs are complex institutions composed of several interdependent subsystems. Sustainable improvement requires holistic assessment measures to comply with established goals. To date, few studies have focused on comparing the different perceptions of sustainability in HEIs and considering the views of the academic community in shaping the efforts and better disseminating sustainable development initiatives. To fill this gap, this work aimed to implement a methodology that compares the perceptions of sustainability and the implemented actions among members of HEIs to show the discrepancies between perceptions and facts. Many studies report either the perception of members of the academic community or the technical assessment of the sustainable performance of the institution in isolation. The novelty of this work lies in developing a tool that allows the use of a similar scale to compare the perception of users of academic services with the valuation attributed by technicians responsible for implementing sustainable development initiatives at HEIs. Analysing of these results enables the identification of dimensions with discrepancies, guiding managers as they carry out actions to promote greater community engagement in implementing sustainability initiatives that boost the consolidation of these values in the institutional culture. Additionally, it is highlighted that the proposed methodology could be adapted for use in other types of institutions, maintaining the same benefits described here.