bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and synthesis of yellow- to red-emitting gold(iii) complexes containing isomeric thienopyridine and thienoquinoline moieties and their applications in operationally stable organic light-emitting devices
Authors: Li Lok-Kwan , Au-Yeung Cathay Chai , Tang Man-Chung , Lai Shiu-Lun , Cheung Wai-Lung , Ng Maggie , Chan Mei-Yee , Yam Vivian Wing-Wah
Published: September 2021

A new class of yellow- to red-emitting carbazolylgold(iii) complexes containing isomeric thienopyridine and thienoquinoline moieties in the cyclometalating ligand has been designed to realize high performance OLEDs with long operational lifetime.
Novel indole-BODIPY photosensitizers based on iodine promoted intersystem crossing enhancement for lysosome-targeted imaging and photodynamic therapy
Authors: Liu Miao , Wang Chengjun , Qian Ying
Published: September 2021

In this work, we report the new lysosome-targeting indole-BODIPY derivatives BDP-Lys, IBDP-Lys, and I2BDP-Lys.
The beauty of biocatalysis: sustainable synthesis of ingredients in cosmetics
Authors: Heath Rachel S. , Ruscoe Rebecca E. , Turner Nicholas J.
Published: September 2021

Consumer's needs and desires for green, natural and sustainable cosmetic ingredients has driven the advances in technology needed to synthesise these ingredients using biocatalytic methods, which are described in this review.
Metabolomics and genomics in natural products research: complementary tools for targeting new chemical entities
Authors: Caesar Lindsay K. , Montaser Rana , Keller Nancy P. , Kelleher Neil L.
Published: September 2021

Here we provide a comprehensive guide for studying natural product biosynthesis using genomics, metabolomics, and their integrated datasets. We emphasize integrated strategies and provide a critical outlook on remaining challenges in the field.
Efficient Cr(vi) photoreduction under natural solar irradiation using a novel step-scheme ZnS/SnIn4S8 nanoheterostructured photocatalysts
Authors: Madkour Metwally , Abdelmonem Yasser , Qazi Umair Yaqub , Javaid Rahat , Vadivel S.
Published: September 2021

The Cr(vi) photoreduction tests demonstrated an improved photocatalytic activity of SIS and 2Z-SIS to be 61.0% and 92.3% respectively after 120 min. The results indicated the photocatalyst's capability under sun light, allowing for its industrial use.
A novel BiVO3/SnO2 step S-scheme nano-heterojunction for an enhanced visible light photocatalytic degradation of amaranth dye and hydrogen production
Authors: Abd-Rabboh Hisham S. M. , Galal A. H. , Aziz Rafi Abdel , Ahmed M. A.
Published: September 2021

The destruction of toxic pollutants and production of hydrogen gas on the surface of semiconductors under light irradiation is the main significance of photocatalysis.
New pyridine and chromene scaffolds as potent vasorelaxant and anticancer agents
Authors: Dawood Dina H. , Srour Aladdin M. , Saleh Dalia O. , Huff Kelley J. , Greco Francesca , Osborn Helen M. I.
Published: September 2021

Series of pyridine- (3a–o) and/or chromene- (4a–e) carbonitrile scaffolds have been designed, synthesized and evaluated for their bi-function activities, 3d was the only common derivative having combined vasodilation and anticancer properties.
A mixed-valent vanadium oxide cathode with ultrahigh rate capability for aqueous zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Li Shenglong , Wei Xiujuan , Chen Haopeng , Lai Guoyong , Wang Xuanpeng , Zhang Shaojian , Wu Shuxing , Tang Weiting , Lin Zhan
Published: September 2021

The V10O24·nH2O cathode with a large interlayer spacing and stable structure exhibits superior rate capability and excellent cycling stability for aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
Ferroelectricity promoted by cation/anion divacancies in SrMnO3
Authors: Ricca Chiara , Berkowitz Danielle , Aschauer Ulrich
Published: September 2021

Density functional theory calculations show polar Sr–O vacancy pairs to be a suitable route to engineer ferroelectricity in SrMnO3 in addition to epitaxial strain.
The hole in the bucky: structure–property mapping of closed- vs. open-cage fullerene solar-cell blends via temperature/composition phase diagrams
Authors: Matrone Giovanni Maria , Gutiérrez-Meza Elizabeth , Balzer Alex H. , Khirbat Aditi , Levitsky Artem , Sieval Alexander B. , Frey Gitti. L. , Richter Lee J. , Silva Carlos , Stingelin Natalie
Published: September 2021

Experimentally established, non-equilibrium temperature/composition phase diagrams are demonstrated to be useful beyond rationalization of optimum OPV blend composition but also as tools for rapid, qualitative structure–property mapping.
Supramolecular oligourethane gels as light-harvesting antennae: achieving multicolour luminescence and white-light emission through FRET
Authors: Jiang Nan , Wang Runlin , You Xiaoxia , Geng Yun , Zhu Dongxia , Zhang Ning , Bryce Martin R.
Published: September 2021

Multicolour and white-emitting oligourethane gels have been prepared; their supramolecular assembly and proof-of-concept photonic applications are reported.
Effects of Cognitive Load on the Categorical Perception of Mandarin Tones
Authors: Feng Yan , Meng Yaru , Li Hanfei , Peng Gang
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study investigated the effect of cognitive load (CL) on the categorical perception (CP) of Mandarin lexical tones to discuss the application of the generalized pulse-skipping hypothesis. This hypothesis assumes that listeners might miss/skip temporal pulses and lose essential speech information due to CL, which consequently affects both the temporal and spectral dimensions of speech perception. Should CL decrease listeners' pitch sensitivity and impair the distinction of tone categories, this study would support the generalized pulse-skipping hypothesis.

Method

Twenty-four native Mandarin-speaking listeners were recruited to complete a dual-task experiment where they were required to identify or discriminate tone stimuli while concurrently memorizing six Chinese characters or graphic symbols. A no-load condition without a memory recall task was also included as a baseline condition. The position of categorical boundary, identification slope, between- and within-category discrimination, and discrimination peakedness were compared across the three conditions to measure the impact of CL on tone perception. The recall accuracy of Chinese characters and graphic symbols was used to assess the difficulty of memory recall.

Results

Compared with the no-load condition, both load conditions showed a boundary shift to Tone 3, shallower identification slope, poorer between-category discrimination, and lower discrimination peakedness. Within-category discrimination was negatively affected by CL in the graphic symbol condition only, not in the Chinese character condition.

Conclusions

CL degraded listeners' sensitivity to subtle fundamental frequency changes and impaired CP of Mandarin lexical tones. This provides support for the generalized pulse-skipping hypothesis. Besides, the involvement of lexical information modulated the effect of CL.
Morphology and Syntax in Arabic-Speaking Adolescents Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Authors: Kawar Khaloob
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Diagnoses, assessments, and treatments, as well as social and language interventions, can be effective in identifying and interpreting specific linguistic features that present special challenges to the language abilities of individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing (DHH). This article reports on a study analyzing complex sentences and morphosyntactic error production by Arabic-speaking adolescents who are hearing and DHH.

Method

A total of 124 adolescents participated, all native speakers of Arabic in Grades 6–10 (63 hearing and 61 DHH). The participants were asked to provide an oral narrative about a dangerous experience.

Results

Both groups produced a low mean percentage of complex sentences out of the total number of clauses. However, adolescents who are DHH produced significantly fewer complex sentences and more morphosyntactic errors when compared with their hearing peers. The most common errors produced by both groups were clause errors including omission of subject or predicate and errors in word order. Determiner errors were produced significantly more often by adolescents who are DHH.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this study is one of the first to investigate morphosyntactic aspects of complex sentences and morphosyntactic errors produced by Arabic-speaking adolescents who are hearing and DHH. This study therefore has significance for further research on language development among Arabic speakers and on definitions of vulnerable linguistic aspects in DHH.
„Mit meinen Greifhilfen löse ich jedes Problem“ – Der Hilfsmittel-Tüftler
Authors: Gretz Livia
Published: September 2021

1998 erhielt Hans Peter Durtschi die Diagnose Multiple Sklerose. Ein Jahr spater war er bereits auf einen Rollstuhl angewiesen. Heute meistert er seinen Alltag mehrheitlich selbststandig - dank selbst angefertigter Greifstocke. Livia Gretz hat ihn im Rahmen ihrer Bachelorarbeit zum Thema „Resilienz bei MS“ besucht.
Therapie patellofemoraler Knorpelschäden
Authors: Ossendorff Robert , Walter Sebastian G. , Salzmann Gian M.
Published: September 2021

Patellofemorale Knorpeldefekte sind eine mittlerweile sehr häufige Entität und oft Ursache des vorderen Knieschmerzes beim Sportler. Diese können nach akutem Trauma, insbesondere in Verbindung mit einer Patellaluxation, entstehen. Nichttraumatische Knorpelläsionen sind häufig Folge bestehender Grundpathologien des Patellofemoralgelenks, die jedoch insbesondere bei retropatellaren Knorpeldefekten häufig erst spät symptomatisch werden. Zur Therapie dieser Läsionen steht eine Vielzahl von regenerativen Knorpeltherapieverfahren zur Verfügung. Der Outcome nach Versorgung patellofemoraler Knorpeldefekte ist jedoch den Ergebnissen des Tibiofemoralgelenks oft unterlegen. Von entscheidender Bedeutung für den Therapierfolg ist neben der Wahl der optimalen Knorpelintervention die adäquate Adressierung der Begleitpathologie. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit werden die verschiedenen Techniken der patellofemoralen Knorpeltherapie gegenübergestellt.
Flavanols and Flavanes from Crinum asiaticum and Their Effects
on LPS Signaling Pathway Through the Inhibition of NF-κB
Activation
Authors: Do Kiep Minh , Shin Min-Kyoung , Kodama Takeshi , Win Nwet Nwet , Prema Prema , Nguyen Hien Minh , Hayakawa Yoshihiro , Morita Hiroyuki
Published: September 2021

Three new flavanols, (2R,3S)-7-methoxy-flavan-3-ol (1),
(2R,3S)-7-hydroxy-flavan-3-ol (2), and
(2R,3S)-2′-hydroxy-7-methoxy-flavan-3-ol (3), together
with two known flavans (4 and 5), were isolated from the
chloroform extract of Crinum asiaticum. Their structures were elucidated
by various spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESI-MS, and CD
data. The isolated compounds 1 and 3−5 showed inhibitory
activity toward LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production. Further investigation
of the NF-κB pathway mechanisms indicated that 1 and
3−5 inhibited the LPS-induced IL-6 production and p65 subunit
phosphorylation of NF-κB in RAW264.7 cells, with an effective dose of
10 µM.
Increase in Cancer Patient Load during COVID-19 Pandemic: The Faridabad Experience
Authors: Gupta Sumant , Pandey Anamika , Gupta Neha , Naim Faran , Gupta Rakesh , Das Bhaskar
Published: September 2021

Introduction Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected oncology care differently across the world. We evaluated our experience of infusional chemotherapy during the active phase of ongoing pandemic.

Methods Prospectively collected month wise data from January 2019 to November 2020 was compared between the 2 years.

Results A total of 6,003 chemotherapy infusions were administered between January 1, 2019 and November 30, 2020 (2,548 in 11 months of 2019 and 3,455 in the same 11 months of 2020). Between May 1 and October 31, 2020, 2,337 chemotherapy infusions were administered to 570 patients all of whom were also tested for COVID-19 positivity, of which 65 (11.4%) were COVID-19 positive. The majority (63/65; 97%) could receive their chemotherapy infusions safely.

Discussion Paradoxically, our hospital recorded an increase in the number of cancer patients receiving infusional chemotherapy in 2020, with a linear increase in the cancer case being treated (from 309 in June to 398 in November 2020). We believe that this was possible because cancer patients wanted treatment near their homes to avoid/minimize risk of exposure to COVID-19, cross state border travel restrictions was an additional roadblock, and our quality of service provided earned the trust of cancer patients.
A Novel Telescoped Kilogram-Scale Process for Preparation of Obeticholic Acid
Authors: Li Cheng-Wei , Wang Cai , Guo Chao , Lv Bin-Hua , Luo You-Fu
Published: September 2021

A novel scalable four-step process has been developed to improve the synthesis of obeticholic acid (OCA). The key step of this process was the isolation of the amide intermediate, which underwent hydrogenation, basic epimerization, ketone reduction, and amide hydrolysis in a one-pot procedure. The use of efficient single recrystallization for the final purification in this process made the corresponding work-up procedure more concise and environmentally friendly. A kilogram-scale production of OCA following this process could achieve over 70% yield with all impurities controlled below 0.10%.
Old English intensifiers
Authors: Stratton James M.
Published: September 2021

While many studies have employed variationist methods to examine longitudinal changes in the English intensifier system, to date, no variationist studies have tackled the intensifier system of Old English. By providing a critical view of this system at an earlier stage in the history of the English language, the present study adds to the long tradition of scholarship on intensifiers while providing new insight into their diachronic development. Despite its antiquity, several parallels can be drawn with the intensifier system at later stages in the language. Both internal and external factors are found to constrain this system, with predicative adjectives favoring intensification over attributive adjectives, prose texts having higher intensification rates than verse texts, Latin-based texts having higher intensification rates than vernacular texts, and the rate of intensification increasing over time. The quantitative analysis of the Old English system also increases the time depth necessary for a more detailed reflection on the diachronic recycling, replacement, and renewal of intensifiers. Language contact and borrowing are also postulated as driving forces of innovation and replacement in earlier stages of the English language.
Biochemically deleterious human NFKB1 variants underlie an autosomal dominant form of common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: Li Juan , Lei Wei-Te , Zhang Peng , Rapaport Franck , Seeleuthner Yoann , Lyu Bingnan , Asano Takaki , Rosain Jérémie , Hammadi Boualem , Zhang Yu , Pelham Simon J. , Spaan András N. , Migaud Mélanie , Hum David , Bigio Benedetta , Chrabieh Maya , Béziat Vivien , Bustamante Jacinta , Zhang Shen-Ying , Jouanguy Emmanuelle , Boisson-Dupuis Stephanie , El Baghdadi Jamila , Aimanianda Vishukumar , Thoma Katharina , Fliegauf Manfred , Grimbacher Bodo , Korganow Anne-Sophie , Saunders Carol , Rao V. Koneti , Uzel Gulbu , Freeman Alexandra F. , Holland Steven M. , Su Helen C. , Cunningham-Rundles Charlotte , Fieschi Claire , Abel Laurent , Puel Anne , Cobat Aurélie , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Zhang Qian , Boisson Bertrand
Published: September 2021

Autosomal dominant (AD) NFKB1 deficiency is thought to be the most common genetic etiology of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). However, the causal link between NFKB1 variants and CVID has not been demonstrated experimentally and genetically, and there has been insufficient biochemical characterization and enrichment analysis. We show that the cotransfection of NFKB1-deficient HEK293T cells (lacking both p105 and its cleaved form p50) with a κB reporter, NFKB1/p105, and a homodimerization-defective RELA/p65 mutant results in p50:p65 heterodimer–dependent and p65:p65 homodimer–independent transcriptional activation. We found that 59 of the 90 variants in patients with CVID or related conditions were loss of function or hypomorphic. By contrast, 258 of 260 variants in the general population or patients with unrelated conditions were neutral. None of the deleterious variants displayed negative dominance. The enrichment in deleterious NFKB1 variants of patients with CVID was selective and highly significant (P = 2.78 × 10−15). NFKB1 variants disrupting NFKB1/p50 transcriptional activity thus underlie AD CVID by haploinsufficiency, whereas neutral variants in this assay should not be considered causal.
QSSOR and cubic non-polynomial spline method for the solution of two-point boundary value problems
Authors: Sunarto A , Agarwal P , Chew J V L , Justine H , Sulaiman J
Published: September 2021

Two-point boundary value problems are commonly used as a numerical test in developing an efficient numerical method. Several researchers studied the application of a cubic non-polynomial spline method to solve the two-point boundary value problems. A preliminary study found that a cubic non-polynomial spline method is better than a standard finite difference method in terms of the accuracy of the solution. Therefore, this paper aims to examine the performance of a cubic non-polynomial spline method through the combination with the full-, half-, and quarter-sweep iterations. The performance was evaluated in terms of the number of iterations, the execution time and the maximum absolute error by varying the iterations from full-, half- to quarter-sweep. A successive over-relaxation iterative method was implemented to solve the large and sparse linear system. The numerical result showed that the newly derived QSSOR method, based on a cubic non-polynomial spline, performed better than the tested FSSOR and HSSOR methods.
Surface Roughness and Hardness Characteristic of 2024 Aluminum Alloy by Electroplating Ni-Cr
Authors: Akhyar  , Yaqin R I , Farhan A , Jalil Z
Published: September 2021

Aluminum alloy 2024 is widely applied to aircraft because it has excellent mechanical properties. However, the application requires better properties on the surface. However, in its application, sometimes better properties are needed on the surface. This experiment aimed to evaluate the effect of electroplating time duration (nickel solution: 15 and 20 minutes, and chromium solution: 10, 15, and 20 minutes) on surface roughness. Investigate surface hardness due to variations in electroplating time: 10, 15, 20, 20, 25, 30, and 35 minutes. The results show that the time duration can affect the surface roughness after electroplating coating compared to untreated samples. On the other hand, electroplating on 2024 alloy with time variations, initially the surface hardness value increases with increasing time duration and reaches the highest at 25 minutes (electroplating time), then the hardness value decreases with increasing treatment time duration.
Big data acquisition and processing platform for embedded prognostics of the ultrasonic motor
Authors: Qin Taichun , Li Dan , Li Peng , Huang Shouqing , Dai Wei
Published: September 2021

To ensure reliability and safety, embedded prognostics are essential for ultrasonic motor, which is a key component of spacecraft. Although many big-data algorithms have been proposed for prognostics and health management (PHM), no suitable embedded prognostic platform is found for the ultrasonic motor. In this paper, a big data acquisition and processing platform is proposed. The platform is composed of a high-speed signal acquisition board, an edge computing module and a display screen. As the key part, the high-speed signal acquisition board is discussed in detail. Moreover, this platform has been tested with an ultrasonic motor. The results show that the acquired waveform is quite clear, which indicates this platform can successfully be used for prognostics of ultrasonic motors.
A TDOA localization method for complex environment localization
Authors: Ma Bole , Tong Chao , Zou Lipeng , Tian Ming
Published: September 2021

Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) algorithm is a widely used wireless network-based localization algorithm. However, with the increasing complexity of real-life localization environments, the disturbances of noise, perturbations and multi-path effect have limited the performance of the classical TDOA algorithm. In view of these, we design an Interaction-derived Sequence Selection (IDSS) method and an Interaction-derived Sequence Adjustment (IDSA) method to reduce localization error caused by Non Line of Sight (NLOS) environments. Furthermore, an Interacting Multiple Model (IMM) framework is proposed to deal with the localization problem in complex mixed environments. Experimental results demonstrate that the IDSS and IDSA methods can enhance TDOA localization performance in NLOS environments, and the IMM framework can maintain strong adaptability in complex mixed environments.
Research on antithrombotic mechanism of Paeoniae Radix Alba based on data mining, network pharmacology and molecular docking technology
Authors: Wu Jun , Guo Mengya , Shen Xingang , Qiu Zhaozhi , Duan Yingying , Wu Jiahang , Zhang Dan , Liu Liting , Liu Yunfeng
Published: September 2021

The antithrombotic mechanism of Paeoniae Radix Alba(PRA) was studied with data mining, network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques. The active ingredient of PRA was through mining and screening TCMSP database and literature, using the SwissTargetPrediction website to predict the target of the material. The Genacard database was used to mine "thrombotic" related targets, and the Cytoscape3.7.2 was used to construct PRA "active ingredients-thrombotic targets" network relationships. The target of antithrombotic drug was obtained by R language, Wencketty Diagram was drawn, and Kegg enrichment analysis was carried out. Then the core target of antithrombotic drug was selected by insertion of Cytonca, and its binding property to the core target was verified by molecular docking method. A total of 14 active components were selected from PRA and 257 targets were selected, among which 83 were antithrombotic targets and a total of 13 core antithrombotic targets were obtained, namely AKT1, ESR1, SRC, SERPINE1, MMP2, JUN, PTGS2, EGFR, FGF2, KDR, GAPDH, MMP9, VEGFA. A total of 1830 GO enrichment results were obtained, of which 1711 were enriched in biological processes (BP), 99 in molecular functions (MF) and 17 in cellular components (CC). A total of 127 KEGG signaling pathways were enriched. The docking results further showed that the active components of PRA could form intermolecular hydrogen bonds with the Amino acid residues of the core targets, and had strong binding properties. Based on data mining, network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques, PRA has been proved to have the characteristics of antithrombotic multi-pathway and synergistic therapy, and the possible targets of PRA antithrombotic and its mechanism of action were explored. It provides a theoretical basis for its further experimental study and clinical application.
Research on attention and reasoning mechanism of autonomous English learning based on machine learning
Authors: Wang Shanshan
Published: September 2021

The wave of the Internet era has swept over our lives and learning, and the Internet is gradually being widely used in all scenes of life and learning. The use of Internet technology can greatly improve efficiency compared to traditional methods. With the popularization of computers, internet technology has entered millions of households, and now more and more school courses are related to the Internet. However, the teaching evaluation of online learning is generally derived from the post-class feedback of teachers and students. In this paper, we analyze the video feeds of students during class and then qualitatively assess students' attention. In this paper, the English grammar error correction model is mainly based on deep learning, and the English grammar error correction problem is defined. The English grammar error correction evaluation criteria are given. Besides, the SEQ-based English grammar error correction model is proposed, and some improvements are made to the basic SEQ model, and then the algorithmic model is experimented and validated. Based on the above discussion, the feedback mechanism is proposed. Moreover, we also introduce the N-gram model and related implementation techniques, and experiments are conducted and experimental results are given with the corpus.
Phase formation and magnetic properties of (Nd1−xYx)14Fe80B6 melt-spun ribbons
Authors: Li ShengXi , Dai FeiLong , Shen JiuQi , Huang JunKang , Huang FaJia , Rong MaoHua , Yao QingRong , Wang Jiang
Published: September 2021

Phase formation and magnetic properties of (Nd1−xYx)14Fe80B6 (x = 0.1–0.8) alloys were investigated experimentally by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The phase structure analysis reveals that the as-cast (Nd1−xYx)14Fe80B6 alloys were made of 2:14:1 phase with tetragonal Nd2Fe14B-tpyed structure, REFe2 and α-Fe phases, while the melt-spun ribbons are composed of 2:14:1 phase and α-Fe Phase. Based on the magnetic measurements, the remanence (Br), the coercivity (Hcj), the maximum magnetic energy product ((BH)max) and the Curie temperatures (Tc) of (Nd1−xYx)14Fe80B6 ribbons reduces gradually with increasing Y substitution. The relatively high coercivity (6.75 kOe) of (Nd0.4Y0.6)14Fe80B6 ribbon with high Y substitution was achieved, which indicates that good magnetic properties of Nd–Y–Fe–B ribbons would be obtained through the design of alloy composition and phase formation.
Forest above-ground volume assessments with terrestrial laser scanning: a ground-truth validation experiment in temperate, managed forests
Authors: Demol Miro , Calders Kim , Verbeeck Hans , Gielen Bert
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims

Quantifying the Earth’s forest above-ground biomass (AGB) is indispensable for effective climate action and developing forest policy. Yet, current allometric scaling models (ASMs) to estimate AGB suffer several drawbacks related to model selection and uncertainties about calibration data traceability. Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) offers a promising non-destructive alternative. Tree volume is reconstructed from TLS point clouds with quantitative structure models (QSMs) and converted to AGB with wood basic density. Earlier studies have found overall TLS-derived forest volume estimates to be accurate, but highlighted problems for reconstructing finer branches. Our objective was to evaluate TLS for estimating tree volumes by comparison with reference volumes and volumes from ASMs.

Methods

We quantified the woody volume of 65 trees in Belgium (from 77 to 2800 L; Pinus sylvestris, Fagus sylvatica, Larix decidua, and Fraxinus excelsior) with QSMs and destructive reference measurements. We tested a volume expansion factor (VEF) approach by multiplying the solid and merchantable volume from QSMs by literature VEF values.

Key Results

Stem volume was reliably estimated with TLS. Total volume was overestimated by +21 % using original QSMs, by +9 % and –12 % using two sets of VEF-augmented QSMs, and by –7.3 % using best-available ASMs. The most accurate method differed per site, and the prediction errors for each method varied considerably between sites.

Conclusions

VEF-augmented QSMs were only slightly better than original QSMs for estimating tree volume for common species in temperate forests. Despite satisfying estimates with ASMs, the model choice was a large source of uncertainty, and species-specific models did not always exist. Therefore, we advocate for further improving tree volume reconstructions with QSMs, especially for fine branches, instead of collecting more ground-truth data to calibrate VEF and allometric models. Promising developments such as improved co-registration and smarter filtering approaches are ongoing to further constrain volumetric errors in TLS-derived estimates.
Pollen limitation and xenia effects in a cultivated mass-flowering tree, Macadamia integrifolia (Proteaceae)
Authors: Trueman Stephen J , Kämper Wiebke , Nichols Joel , Ogbourne Steven M , Hawkes David , Peters Trent , Hosseini Bai Shahla , Wallace Helen M
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims

Pollen limitation is most prevalent among bee-pollinated plants, self-incompatible plants and tropical plants. However, we have very little understanding of the extent to which pollen limitation affects fruit set in mass-flowering trees despite tree crops accounting for at least 600 million tons of the 9200 million tons of annual global food production.

Methods

We determined the extent of pollen limitation in a bee-pollinated, partially self-incompatible, subtropical tree by hand cross-pollinating the majority of flowers on mass-flowering macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia) trees that produce about 200 000–400 000 flowers. We measured tree yield and kernel quality and estimated final fruit set. We genotyped individual kernels by MassARRAY to determine levels of outcrossing in orchards and assess paternity effects on nut quality.

Key Results

Macadamia trees were pollen-limited. Supplementary cross-pollination increased nut-in-shell yield, kernel yield and fruit set by as much as 97, 109 and 92 %, respectively. The extent of pollen limitation depended upon the proximity of experimental trees to trees of another cultivar because macadamia trees were highly outcrossing. Between 84 and 100 % of fruit arose from cross-pollination, even at 200 m (25 rows) from orchard blocks of another cultivar. Large variations in nut-in-shell mass, kernel mass, kernel recovery and kernel oil concentration were related to differences in fruit paternity, including between self-pollinated and cross-pollinated fruit, thus demonstrating pollen-parent effects on fruit quality (i.e. xenia).

Conclusions

This study is the first to demonstrate pollen limitation in a mass-flowering tree. Improved pollination led to increased kernel yield of 0.31–0.59 tons ha–1, which equates currently to higher farm-gate income of approximately $US3720–$US7080 ha–1. The heavy reliance of macadamia flowers on cross-pollination and the strong xenia effects on kernel mass demonstrate the high value that pollination services can provide to food production.
Evolutionary history of two rare endemic conifer species from the eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Miao Jibin , Farhat Perla , Wang Wentao , Ruhsam Markus , Milne Richard , Yang Heng , Tso Sonam , Li Jialiang , Xu Jingjing , Opgenoorth Lars , Miehe Georg , Mao Kangshan
Published: September 2021

Background and Aims

Understanding the population genetics and evolutionary history of endangered species is urgently needed in an era of accelerated biodiversity loss. This knowledge is most important for regions with high endemism that are ecologically vulnerable, such as the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP).

Methods

The genetic variation of 84 juniper trees from six populations of Juniperus microsperma and one population of Juniperus erectopatens, two narrow-endemic junipers from the QTP that are sister to each other, was surveyed using RNA-sequencing data. Coalescent-based analyses were used to test speciation, migration and demographic scenarios. Furthermore, positively selected and climate-associated genes were identified, and the genetic load was assessed for both species.

Key Results

Analyses of 149 052 single nucleotide polymorphisms showed that the two species are well differentiated and monophyletic. They diverged around the late Pliocene, but interspecific gene flow continued until the Last Glacial Maximum. Demographic reconstruction by Stairway Plot detected two severe bottlenecks for J. microsperma but only one for J. erectopatens. The identified positively selected genes and climate-associated genes revealed habitat adaptation of the two species. Furthermore, although J. microsperma had a much wider geographical distribution than J. erectopatens, the former possesses lower genetic diversity and a higher genetic load than the latter.

Conclusions

This study sheds light on the evolution of two endemic juniper species from the QTP and their responses to Quaternary climate fluctuations. Our findings emphasize the importance of speciation and demographic history reconstructions in understanding the current distribution pattern and genetic diversity of threatened species in mountainous regions.
The Accuracy of a Patient-Specific Three-Dimensional Digital Ostectomy Template for Mandibular Angle Ostectomy
Authors: Wu Guoping , Xie Zhiyang , Shangguan Wensong , Zhang Wenwen , Wang Shu , Hu Chao , Lu Tong , Gao Sheng
Published: September 2021

Background

Although three-dimensional (3D)-printed digital ostectomy templates (DOTs) can help surgeons perform mandibular angle ostectomy (MAO) more precisely and safely, the clinical application of such templates is problematic.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a novel DOT and improve the precision of MAO.

Methods

A total of 20 patients with a prominent mandibular angle (PMA) were allocated into 2 groups (10 patients per group). A conventional DOT and a novel DOT were applied to guide MAO in Groups A and B, respectively. The mean time taken for curved osteotomy and the volume of postoperative drainage on 1 side within 24 hours were recorded. The deviations between the simulated and postoperative lower border of the mandible were measured on both sides.

Results

All the patients were satisfied with the cosmetic outcomes. Statistical results showed that the mean time taken for curved osteotomy was shorter in Group B than in Group A, and that the volume of postoperative drainage on 1 side within 24 hours was similar between the 2 groups. The deviations at the anterior and posterior parts of the inferior border showed that the accuracy of osteotomy was higher in Group B than in Group A, and that there was no significant difference between the 2 groups in the middle part.

Conclusions

The novel DOT is easy to locate and fix tightly, which reduced the operating time and increased the safety and precision of the procedures.

Level of Evidence: 4
Smoothed nested testing on directed acyclic graphs
Authors: Loper J H , Lei L , Fithian W , Tansey W
Published: September 2021

We consider the problem of multiple hypothesis testing when there is a logical nested structure to the hypotheses. When one hypothesis is nested inside another, the outer hypothesis must be false if the inner hypothesis is false. We model the nested structure as a directed acyclic graph, including chain and tree graphs as special cases. Each node in the graph is a hypothesis and rejecting a node requires also rejecting all of its ancestors. We propose a general framework for adjusting node-level test statistics using the known logical constraints. Within this framework, we study a smoothing procedure that combines each node with all of its descendants to form a more powerful statistic. We prove that a broad class of smoothing strategies can be used with existing selection procedures to control the familywise error rate, false discovery exceedance rate, or false discovery rate, so long as the original test statistics are independent under the null. When the null statistics are not independent, but are derived from positively correlated normal observations, we prove control for all three error rates when the smoothing method is an arithmetic averaging of the observations. Simulations and an application to a real biology dataset demonstrate that smoothing leads to substantial power gains.
Spatial distribution of sediment archaeal and bacterial communities relates to the source of organic matter and hypoxia – a biogeographical study on Lake Remoray (France)
Authors: Tardy Vincent , Etienne David , Masclaux Hélène , Essert Valentin , Millet Laurent , Verneaux Valérie , Lyautey Emilie
Published: September 2021

Bottom waters hypoxia spreads in many lakes worldwide causing severe consequences on whole lakes trophic network. Here, we aimed at understanding the origin of organic matter stored in the sediment compartment and the related diversity of sediment microbial communities in a lake with deoxygenated deep water layers. We used a geostatistical approach to map and compare both the variation of organic matter and microbial communities in sediment. Spatialisation of C/N ratio and δ13C signature of sediment organic matter suggested that Lake Remoray was characterized by an algal overproduction which could be related to an excess of nutrient due to the close lake-watershed connectivity. Three spatial patterns were observed for sediment microbial communities after the hypoxic event, each characterized by specific genetic structure, microbial diversity and composition. The relative abundance variation of dominant microbial groups across Lake Remoray such as Cyanobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, Deltaproteobacteria and Chloroflexi provided us important information on the lake areas where hypoxia occurs. The presence of methanogenic species in the deeper part of the lake suggests important methane production during hypoxia period. Taken together, our results provide an extensive picture of microbial communities' distribution related to quantity and quality of organic matter in a seasonally hypoxic lake.
A toolbox for digitally enhanced teaching in synthetic biology
Authors: Muth Liv Teresa , Jenkins Sánchez Liam Richard , Claus Silke , Salvador Lopez José Manuel , Van Bogaert Inge
Published: September 2021

The global pandemic of COVID-19 has forced educational provision to suddenly shift to a digital environment all around the globe. During these extraordinary times of teaching and learning both the challenges and the opportunities of embedding technologically enhanced education permanently became evident. Even though reinforced by constraints due to the pandemic, teaching through digital tools increases the portfolio of approaches to reach learning outcomes in general. In order to reap the full benefits, this Minireview displays various initiatives and tools for distance education in the area of Synthetic Biology in higher education while taking into account specific constraints of teaching Synthetic Biology from a distance, such as collaboration, laboratory and practical experiences. The displayed teaching resources can benefit current and future educators and raise awareness about a diversified inventory of teaching formats as a starting point to reflect upon one's own teaching and its further advancement.
A systems approach using Diversity Outbred mice distinguishes the cardiovascular effects and genetics of circulating GDF11 from those of its homolog, myostatin
Authors: Starcher Abigail E , Peissig Kristen , Stanton James B , Churchill Gary A , Cai Dunpeng , Maxwell Joshua T , Grider Arthur , Love Kim , Chen Shi-You , Coleman Amanda E , Strauss Emma , Pazdro Robert
Published: September 2021

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a member of the TGF-β protein family that has been implicated in the development of cardiac hypertrophy. While some studies have suggested that systemic GDF11 protects against cardiomyocyte enlargement and left ventricular wall thickening, there remains uncertainty about the true impact of GDF11 and whether its purported effects are actually attributable to its homolog myostatin. This study was conducted to resolve the statistical and genetic relationships among GDF11, myostatin, and cardiac hypertrophy in a mouse model of human genetics, the Diversity Outbred (DO) stock. In the DO population, serum GDF11 concentrations positively correlated with cardiomyocyte cross-sectional area, while circulating myostatin levels were negatively correlated with body weight, heart weight, and left ventricular wall thickness and mass. Genetic analyses revealed that serum GDF11 concentrations are modestly heritable (0.23) and identified a suggestive peak on murine chromosome 3 in close proximity to the gene Hey1, a transcriptional repressor. Bioinformatic analyses located putative binding sites for the HEY1 protein upstream of the Gdf11 gene in the mouse and human genomes. In contrast, serum myostatin concentrations were more heritable (0.57) than GDF11 concentrations, and mapping identified a significant locus near the gene FoxO1, which has binding motifs within the promoter regions of human and mouse myostatin genes. Together, these findings more precisely define the independent cardiovascular effects of GDF11 and myostatin, as well as their distinct regulatory pathways. Hey1 is a compelling candidate for the regulation of GDF11 and will be further evaluated in future studies.
4. Rules of attribution—corporate acts and liabilities
Authors: Hannigan Brenda
Published: September 2021

This chapter looks at identifying whose acts are the acts of the company for the purposes of determining the rights and liabilities of the company, given that the company is an artificial legal entity. There are several distinct rules of attribution which may assist in this context. The chapter examines corporate liability in contract, corporate liability in tort, and criminal liability of the company. The chapter addresses the debate between the traditional approach to attribution, relying on directing mind and will theory, (especially in criminal matters) and the more purposive approach being adopted in civil matters. Attribution in the case of the wrongdoing director is considered as well as the application of an illegality defence.
7. Board composition—appointment and removal of directors
Authors: Hannigan Brenda
Published: September 2021

This chapter discusses the appointment and removal of directors. Directors are responsible for the management of the company’s business, for which purpose they may exercise all the powers of the company. This chapter considers three classes of directors: the de jure director, the de facto director, and the shadow director. It identifies the characteristics of each category and the liabilities which attach in the event that someone is classed as being a director. It also considers whether fiduciary duties are owed by shadow directors. The position of corporate directors is also considered. In addition, the remuneration of directors is addressed.
13. Specific conflicts—CA 2006, Part 10, Ch 4, and Ch 4A
Authors: Hannigan Brenda
Published: September 2021

This chapter considers provisions of the Companies Act 2006 (CA 2006), Pt 10, Ch 4, and Ch 4A. These provisions regulate transactions with directors where there is an acute conflict of interest between the director’s personal interests and his duty to the company and so, typically, the statute requires prior shareholder approval of the transaction. The relevant provisions address: directors’ service contracts (CA 2006, ss 188–189); payments for loss of office (CA 2006, ss 215–221); for quoted companies (which must have a directors’ remuneration policy)—remuneration payments and payments for loss of office (Ch 4A); substantial property transactions (CA 2006, ss 190–196); and loans and similar financial transactions (CA 2006, ss 197–214).
18. Informed shareholders and stakeholders—disclosure and the limited company
Authors: Hannigan Brenda
Published: September 2021

Most disclosure comes in the form of company accounts and reports focusing on the financial position and the activities of the company. Increasingly, mandated disclosures for public companies extend widely beyond the financial statements to a narrative account of the company’s activities, business strategy, and risks. Considerable emphasis is now placed, for public companies, on addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) concerns. The chapter discusses the statutory provisions governing company accounts and considers the obligations of the directors with respect to preparing, circulating, and filing accounts. The chapter also addresses the regulatory framework for audit, the need in larger companies for an auditors’ report, and considers the extent of the auditor’s duty of care as well as the potential auditor liabilities arising from a negligent audit report.
21. Share capital—capital raising and payment
Authors: Hannigan Brenda
Published: September 2021

This chapter considers the statutory rules governing share capital requirements, especially the rules governing allotment of shares, payment for shares, and capital raising. Share capital rules are predominantly statutory and this chapter looks at the statutory framework on allotment including the authority of the directors to allot shares, the need for rights issues; the ability to accept a non-cash consideration; and the prohibitions on various types of consideration, in the case of public companies. Minimum capital requirements and the need to avoid issuing at a discount are considered. A key issue for public companies is whether to make an offer of their shares to the public or seek to have their shares traded on a public market. The regulatory framework for public offers of shares, essentially requiring a prospectus, is considered.
Insight into Inflammatory Bowel Disease Pathogenesis: Is the Answer Blowing in the Wind?
Authors: Herman Sari M , Zaborniak Karver , Bernstein Charles N
Published: September 2021

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are conditions characterized by immune dysregulation to a trigger in those with a genetic predisposition. Environmental factors are thought to contribute to IBD, but no definite trigger has been identified. Aeroallergens have not been thoroughly investigated in their potential contribution to the pathogenesis to IBD. The geographic distribution of aeroallergens and IBD, the association of atopic disease with IBD, seasonality and IBD, and cross-reactive food allergens require further study with implications for targeted dietary and immunomodulatory therapies.
1449Rapid Evidence for Practice modules: using team-based learning to teach evidence-based medicine
Authors: Ackermann Deonna , Blyth Fiona , Burgess Annette , Reid Sharon
Published: September 2021

Background

Evidence-based medicine (EBM) teaching in medical education programs introduces key clinical epidemiology concepts to the future medical workforce. Team-based learning (TBL) is a student-centred learning strategy increasingly used in medical education. We adapted the TBL framework into Rapid Evidence for Practice (REP) modules which will provide students with EBM knowledge and skills and prepare them to apply evidence within short timeframes, simulating real world clinical contexts.

Methods

Year 2 graduate medical students completed a REP module on randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comprising: online informational content, an individual readiness quiz; a forum featuring a critical appraisal demonstration, and a team-based rapid appraisal and application of a published RCT to a clinical scenario. Student feedback was collected by questionnaire, using closed and open-ended items. Data will be analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results

In total, 54/259 (20%) of participants completed a questionnaire regarding the REP module. Summary quantitative results found 91% of students agreed that REP helped them develop a way to use evidence to approach clinical questions and 81% agreed they were satisfied with this method of teaching. Complete quantitative and qualitative analysis results will be presented at the congress.

Conclusions

Our adaption of the TBL framework into a REP module addressing RCTs was highly rated by medical students. Further evaluation of REP for other study types is planned.

Key messages

REP appears to be an acceptable method of delivering EBM teaching to graduate medical students.