bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New drought‐adaptive loci underlying candidate genes on wheat chromosome 4B with improved photosynthesis and yield responses
Authors: Siddiqui Md Nurealam , Teferi Tesfaye J. , Ambaw Abebaw M. , Gabi Melesech T. , Koua Patrice , Léon Jens , Ballvora Agim
Published: September 2021

Flag leaf serves as an essential source of assimilates during grain filling, thereby contributing to grain yield up to 48%. Thus, high‐throughput phenotyping of flag leaves is crucial to determine their physiological and genetic basis of yield formation and drought adaptation. Here, we utilized 200 wheat cultivars to identify drought‐adaptive loci underlying candidate genes associated with flag leaf biomass and photosynthesis‐related traits using a genome‐wide association study (GWAS). GWAS revealed 21 significant marker‐trait associations for key photosynthetic traits in response to drought stress. Analysis of linkage disequilibrium (LD) in these SNPs intervals discovered 103 significant SNPs that established distinct LD blocks containing a total of 382 candidate genes putatively involved in physiological processes, including photosynthesis and water responses. Further, in silico transcript analysis identified two candidate genes in locus AX‐580365925 on chromosome 4B, those were found to be highly expressed under drought and associated with proton‐transporting ATP synthase activity and stress response pathways. Accordingly, we identified significant allelic haplotype differences on this same locus. The tolerant haplotype (higher chlorophyll content under drought) representing major allele was more abundant and stably increased photosynthetic efficiency and yield under drought scenarios. Collectively, this study offers new adaptive loci and beneficial alleles to reshape the flag leaf physiological and associated photosynthetic components for better yield and sustainability to water‐deficit stress.
Understanding the potential of root microbiome influencing salt‐tolerance in plants and mechanisms involved at the transcriptional and translational level
Authors: Roy Swarnendu , Chakraborty Arka Pratim , Chakraborty Rakhi
Published: September 2021

Soil salinity severely affects plant growth and development and imparts inevitable losses to crop productivity. Increasing the concentration of salts in the vicinity of plant roots has severe consequences at the morphological, biochemical, and molecular levels. These include loss of chlorophyll, decrease in photosynthetic rate, reduction in cell division, ROS generation, inactivation of antioxidative enzymes, alterations in phytohormone biosynthesis and signaling, and so forth. The association of microorganisms, viz. plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria, endophytes, and mycorrhiza, with plant roots constituting the root microbiome can confer a greater degree of salinity tolerance in addition to their inherent ability to promote growth and induce defense mechanisms. The mechanisms involved in induced stress tolerance bestowed by these microorganisms involve the modulation of phytohormone biosynthesis and signaling pathways (including indole acetic acid, gibberellic acid, brassinosteroids, abscisic acid, and jasmonic acid), accumulation of osmoprotectants (proline, glycine betaine, and sugar alcohols), and regulation of ion transporters (SOS1, NHX, HKT1). Apart from this, salt‐tolerant microorganisms are known to induce the expression of salt‐responsive genes via the action of several transcription factors, as well as by posttranscriptional and posttranslational modifications. Moreover, the potential of these salt‐tolerant microflora can be employed for sustainably improving crop performance in saline environments. Therefore, this review will briefly focus on the key responses of plants under salinity stress and elucidate the mechanisms employed by the salt‐tolerant microorganisms in improving plant tolerance under saline environments.
Evaluation and screening of elite wheat germplasm for salinity stress at the seedling phase
Authors: Choudhary Anuj , Kaur Nirmaljit , Sharma Achla , Kumar Antul
Published: September 2021

Salinity is one of the most important constraints for global cereal production, and breeding for salinity tolerance is a challenge. The limited gene pools, merged information regarding osmotic stress/tissue tolerance mechanism(s) including the accumulation of Na+, over‐stressed on the Na+ exclusion mechanism, and inadequate suitable screening methods further weaken the progress. In the present study, an attempt was made to evaluate the salt tolerance in Triticum aestivum lines using the membership function value (MFV) of certain traits viz., the root and shoot length (RL & SL), shoot and root fresh weight (SFW & RFW), shoot and root dry weight (SDW & RDW) and germination percentage (GP). This study screened 314 wheat lines (278 linked top cross population [LTPs] and 36 normal wheat cultivars) under lab conditions to evaluate their salt tolerance. A positive, and the highest, correlation coefficient was recorded between salt tolerance index (STI) of SL and the STI of RL.0.11 highly salt tolerant (HST), 59 salt tolerant (ST), 100 moderately salt tolerant (MST), 137 salt sensitive (SS), and seven highly salt sensitive (HSS) were observed with a distance of 2.2 between each category. The R‐square value was maximum (0.836) between the STI of SFW and the mean MFV, which can be used as the most reliable trait for the salinity tolerance in T. aestivum at the germination phase. Wheat tolerant lines had higher tolerance to salt stress in comparison with the used normal wheat cultivars were detected at the seedling stage.
Public Management for Populists: Trump's Schedule F Executive Order and the Future of the Civil Service
Authors: Moynihan Donald P.
Published: September 2021

For over a century, the value of employee protections and limits on direct political control has been the sine qua non of a merit‐based bureaucracy for the US public service. Such assumptions are at odds with the desire of populist governments to exert control over institutions of governance. This tension emerged during the Trump administration. Trump's Schedule F Executive Order sought to transform much of the career public service into political appointees, allowing them to be removed if they were not performing according to the president's goals. In the chaotic last days of the Trump administration, the order was not implemented, but Schedule F offers both a glimpse of an alternative process for public management policymaking that excludes the field of public administration, as well as a potential harbinger for the future of the US civil service.
Blood flow rate: An independent risk factor of mortality in Chinese hemodialysis patients
Authors: Zhao Xinju , Niu Qingyu , Gan Liangying , Hou Fan Fan , Liang Xinling , Ni Zhaohui , Chen Xiaonong , McCullough Keith , Zhao Junhui , Robinson Bruce , Chen Yuqing , Zuo Li
Published: September 2021

Background

Studies suggested the association between blood flow rate (BFR) and mortality might be beyond dialysis adequacy. This study aimed to explore if BFR is an independent predictor of clinical outcomes in Chinese hemodialysis (HD) patients.

Methods

This study included data from patients in China Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (DOPPS) Phase 5. Patients with a record of BFR were included, and demographic data, comorbidities, hospitalization, and death records were collected. Associations between BFR and all‐cause mortality and hospitalization were analyzed using Cox regression models.

Results

One thousand four hundred twelve (98.9%) patients were included. Most patients were with BFR < 300 ml/min. After full adjustment, each 10‐ml/min increase of BFR was associated with a 6.4% decrease in all‐cause mortality risk (HR: 0.936, 95% CI: 0.880–0.996) but not first hospitalization (HR: 0.987, 95% CI: 0.949–1.027). The impact of BFR on mortality may be more prominent in patients who were male gender, nondiabetic, albumin < 4.0 g/dl, and hemoglobin ≥ 9.0 g/dl.

Conclusion

Increased BFR is independently associated with a lower risk of all‐cause mortality within the range of BFR 200–300 ml/min. And this effect is more pronounced in patients who were male gender, nondiabetic, albumin < 4.0 g/dl, and hemoglobin ≥ 9.0 g/dl.
Profiling of elite male junior 50 m freestyle sprinters: Understanding the speed‐time relationship
Authors: Morais Jorge E. , Barbosa Tiago M. , Silva António J. , Veiga Santiago , Marinho Daniel A.
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to (1) analyze and compare the race performance and stability between the fastest and slowest male swimmers during the 50 m freestyle event, and (2) to understand the speed‐time relationship in this race. The performances (start, clean swim, and finish) of 86 swimmers (divided into two tiers: best and poorest performances) who competed in the 50 m freestyle event in the 2019 long course LEN European Junior Championships were analyzed. The swimming speed presented a significant difference between the groups (tier #1 vs tier #2) in all sections of the race, in which the start (S0–15 m: p < 0.001, d = 1.64) and finish sections (S45‐50: p < 0.001, d = 1.63) showed the greatest differences. Significant variances over the race sections were noted for both groups in all variables, in which the swimming speed was the variable with the highest variance (tier #1: p < 0.001, η2 = 0.72; tier #2: p < 0.001, η2 = 0.82). Both groups exhibited a similar normative stability, with the fastest swimmers tending to be the best in all sections. The fit analysis produced a cubic speed‐time relationship. Notwithstanding, junior swimmers who raced the 50 m freestyle can be considered to have an all‐out pacing. This information is of paramount importance for coaches and swimmers to understand the intra‐lap race performance in this short event.
An Efficient One-Step Moment Balancing Algorithm for Computing Medial and Lateral Knee Compartment Contact Forces
Authors: Manal Kurt , Buchanan Thomas S.
Published: September 2021

The knee adduction moment is associated with the progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The adduction moment reflects the net effect of muscles, passive tissues and bone-on-bone contact forces. Medial compartment OA is more common than lateral and therefore our ability to correctly partition bone-on-bones forces across the medial and lateral compartments is key to understanding mechanical factors associated with the onset and progression of knee OA. In this technical brief we present an efficient one-step moment balancing algorithm linking the sagittal and frontal planes in the determination of musculotendon forces. Novel to the one-step approach is the introduction of a penalty function limiting total compressive force from acting in the lateral compartment when the internal moment is net abduction (i.e., external knee adduction). Medial and lateral knee contact forces were computed using the one-step moment balancing algorithm for 10 subjects walking at a self-selected pace and compared to values determined using a well-established two-step frontal moment balancing approach. Overall, average peak differences in magnitude and timing were small and the ensemble-averaged contact force profiles were similar between methods. The only statistical difference was slightly larger (0.2 BWs) peak medial contact force for the one-step method during the first half of stance, however these differences are small relative to peak values and would not likely alter interpretation of the data. The 1-step moment balancing method is a more efficient methodology for computing medial and lateral knee contact forces that can be used in place of two-step frontal plane moment balancing.
Testing a Quaternion Conversion Method to Determine Human Three-Dimensional Tibiofemoral Angles During an In Vitro Simulated Jump Landing
Authors: Ajdaroski Mirel , Ashton-Miller James A. , Baek So Young , Shahshahani Payam Mirshams , Esquivel Amanda O.
Published: September 2021

Lower limb joint kinematics have been measured in laboratory settings using fixed camera-based motion capture systems; however, recently inertial measurement units (IMUs) have been developed as an alternative. The purpose of this study was to test a quaternion conversion (QC) method for calculating the three orthogonal knee angles during the high velocities associated with a jump landing using commercially available IMUs. Nine cadaveric knee specimens were instrumented with APDM Opal IMUs to measure knee kinematics in one-legged 3–4× bodyweight simulated jump landings, four of which were used in establishing the parameters (training) for the new method and five for validation (testing). We compared the angles obtained from the QC method to those obtained from a commercially available sensor and algorithm (APDM Opal) with those calculated from an active marker motion capture system. Results showed a significant difference between both IMU methods and the motion capture data in the majority of orthogonal angles (p < 0.01), though the differences between the QC method and Certus system in the testing set for flexion and rotation angles were smaller than the APDM Opal algorithm, indicating an improvement. Additionally, in all three directions, both the limits of agreement and root-mean-square error between the QC method and the motion capture system were smaller than between the commercial algorithm and the motion capture.
Redescription of Chiropturopoda nidiphila Wiśniewski & Hirschmann (Acari: Uropodina) from a woodpecker’s tree holes, including all development stages and first notes on its ecology
Authors: Jerzy Błoszyk , Grzegorz Hebda , Zbigniew Adamski , Michał Zacharyasiewicz
Published: September 2021

All development stages of Chiropturopoda nidiphila Wiśniewski & Hirschmann, 1983 are described, which has previously been known only from the deutonymph stage. The species is closely associated with tree holes excavated by woodpeckers. Chiropturopoda nidiphila was redescribed and the genus diagnosis was completed. The description of the species morphology is based largely on scanning (SEM) electronograms. Diagnoses differentiating all of the known species of the genus Chiropturopoda are provided, including their developmental stages.
Band offsets at metalorganic chemical vapor deposited β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/β-Ga2O3 interfaces—Crystalline orientation dependence
Authors: Bhuiyan A F M Anhar Uddin , Feng Zixuan , Huang Hsien-Lien , Meng Lingyu , Hwang Jinwoo , Zhao Hongping
Published: September 2021

The β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 alloy represents an emerging ultrawide bandgap semiconductor material for applications in high-power electronics and deep ultraviolet optoelectronics. The recent demonstrations of orientation-dependent epitaxial growth of high quality β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films have unlocked prospects for the development of ultrahigh frequency β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 based transistors with high-power tolerance. To control the electronic and optical properties of β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 heterostructure-based devices, an understanding of the band offsets between β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 and β-Ga2O3 is crucial. However, there have been no systematic experimental studies on the evolution of the band offsets between differently oriented β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 heterointerfaces as a function of Al compositions. This work presents the valence and conduction band offsets at (010) and (2¯01) oriented β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 interfaces using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 films with x ≤ 0.35 and x ≤ 0.48 were grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition on (010) and (2¯01) oriented β-Ga2O3 substrates, respectively. The determined band offsets reveal the formation of a type-II (staggered) band alignment at (010) oriented β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 and a type-I (straddling) heterojunction between (2¯01) β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3 and β-Ga2O3. For both crystalline orientations, the valence and conduction band offsets are found to increase with increasing Al content with a much weaker variation in the valence band offsets as compared to the conduction band offsets. Among different orientations investigated, such as (010), (2¯01), and (100), the largest conduction band offset occurs at a β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 interface with (100) orientation, providing opportunities for excellent electron confinement with a high-density two-dimensional electron gas. Results from this study on the tunable and orientation-dependent band offsets with the variation of the Al alloy fraction will provide guidance for the design of heterostructures in future β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 based devices.
The Role of Physical Fitness on the Relationship Between Motor Competence and Physical Activity: Mediator or Moderator?
Authors: Lopes Vitor P. , Rodrigues Luis P.
Published: September 2021

Understanding the mechanisms associated with engaging in physical activity (PA) is crucial for its promotion. The aim was to analyze the relationship between motor competence (MC) and PA and the role of physical fitness (PF). Participants wereN = 1,064 children of both sexes (n = 530 girls) and 7.87 ± 1.17 years of age. MC was assessed with KörperkoordinationTest für Kinder. PF was assessed with 50-yard dash, 1-mile run/walk, and standing long jump. PA was assessed with a questionnaire. Mediation and moderation were determined according to Baron and Kenny using Sobel test for indirect effect and using PROCESS (version 3.4). Mediation results showed perfect mediation in girls but not in boys and not when all participants were included in the analysis. The linear moderation was significant for all participants and for boys and girls apart. However, the results of conditional effects of MC at the 16th, 50th, and 84th percentile of the PF, which became significant at the 50th percentile for all participants and for boys, were not significant in girls. In conclusion, perfect mediation seems to exist in girls but not in boys. In boys, the relationship between MC and PA seems conditioned by the PF levels.
Distinguishability and “which pathway” information in multidimensional interferometric spectroscopy with a single entangled photon-pair
Authors: Asban Shahaf , Mukamel Shaul
Published: September 2021

Resolving light-matter interaction histories via interferometry of quantum sources.
Neglected physical human-robot interaction may explain variable outcomes in gait neurorehabilitation research
Authors: Plooij M. , Apte S. , Keller U. , Baines P. , Sterke B. , Asboth L. , Courtine G. , von Zitzewitz J. , Vallery H.
Published: September 2021

Device transparency, support force, and attachment are important for optimal body-weight support in gait neurorehabilitation.
Epicardial differentiation drives fibro-fatty remodeling in arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kohela Arwa , van Kampen Sebastiaan J. , Moens Tara , Wehrens Martijn , Molenaar Bas , Boogerd Cornelis J. , Monshouwer-Kloots Jantine , Perini Ilaria , Goumans Marie José , Smits Anke M. , van Tintelen J. Peter , van Rooij Eva
Published: September 2021

Modeling ACM using human-induced pluripotent stem cells shows that epicardial disruption of the desmosome drives cardiac fibro-fatty remodeling.
In-Depth Investigation of the Safety of Wooden Shelves Used for Traditional Cheese Ripening
Authors: Settanni Luca , Busetta Gabriele , Puccio Valeria , Licitra Giuseppe , Franciosi Elena , Botta Luigi , Di Gerlando Rosalia , Todaro Massimo , Gaglio Raimondo
Published: September 2021

This study provides evidence for the lack of pathogenic bacteria on the wooden shelves used to ripen internal bacterially ripened semihard and hard cheeses produced in Sicily. These three cheeses are not inoculated on their surfaces, and surface ripening is not considered to occur or, at least, does not occur at the same extent as surface-inoculated smear cheeses.
A Novel Magnetotactic Alphaproteobacterium Producing Intracellular Magnetite and Calcium-Bearing Minerals
Authors: Liu Peiyu , Liu Yan , Ren Xinyi , Zhang Zhifei , Zhao Xiang , Roberts Andrew P. , Pan Yongxin , Li Jinhua
Published: September 2021

Biomineralization is a widespread process in eukaryotes that form shells, teeth, or bones. It also occurs commonly in prokaryotes, resulting in more than 60 known minerals formed by different bacteria under wide-ranging conditions.
Whole-Genome Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2: Assessment of the Ion Torrent AmpliSeq Panel and Comparison with the Illumina MiSeq ARTIC Protocol
Authors: Plitnick Jonathan , Griesemer Sara , Lasek-Nesselquist Erica , Singh Navjot , Lamson Daryl M. , St. George Kirsten
Published: September 2021

Fast and effective methods are needed for sequencing of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genome to track genetic mutations and to identify new and emerging variants during the ongoing pandemic. The objectives were to assess the performance of the SARS-CoV-2 AmpliSeq research panel and S5 plug-in analysis tools for whole-genome sequencing analysis of SARS-CoV-2 and to compare the results with those obtained with the MiSeq-based ARTIC analysis pipeline, using metrics such as depth, coverage, and concordance of single-nucleotide variant (SNV) calls. A total of 191 clinical specimens and a single cultured isolate were extracted and sequenced with AmpliSeq technology and analysis tools.
Evaluation of Nanopore Sequencing as a Diagnostic Tool for the Rapid Identification of Mycoplasma bovis from Individual and Pooled Respiratory Tract Samples
Authors: Bokma Jade , Vereecke Nick , Pas Mathilde L. , Chantillon Laurens , Vahl Marianne , Weesendorp Eefke , Deurenberg Ruud H. , Nauwynck Hans , Haesebrouck Freddy , Theuns Sebastiaan , Boyen Filip , Pardon Bart
Published: September 2021

Rapid identification of
Mycoplasma bovis
infections in cattle is a key factor to guide antimicrobial therapy and biosecurity measures. Recently, Nanopore sequencing became an affordable diagnostic tool for both clinically relevant viruses and bacteria, but the diagnostic accuracy for
M. bovis
identification is undocumented.
A Systematic Evaluation of IgM and IgG Antibody Assay Accuracy in Diagnosing Acute Zika Virus Infection in Brazil: Lessons Relevant to Emerging Infections
Authors: Medialdea-Carrera Raquel , Levy Flavia , Castanha Priscila , Carvalho de Sequeira Patricia , Brasil Patricia , Lewis-Ximenez Lia L. , Turtle Lance , Solomon Tom , Bispo de Filippis Ana Maria , Brown David W. , Griffiths Michael J.
Published: September 2021

Accurate diagnostics underpin effective public health responses to emerging viruses. For viruses, such as Zika virus (ZIKV), where the viremia clears quickly, antibody-based (IgM or IgG) diagnostics are recommended for patients who present 7 days after symptom onset.
Asymmetric Structures and Conformational Plasticity of the Uncleaved Full-Length Human Immunodeficiency Virus Envelope Glycoprotein Trimer
Authors: Zhang Shijian , Wang Kunyu , Wang Wei Li , Nguyen Hanh T. , Chen Shuobing , Lu Maolin , Go Eden P. , Ding Haitao , Steinbock Robert T. , Desaire Heather , Kappes John C. , Sodroski Joseph , Mao Youdong
Published: September 2021

The envelope glycoprotein (Env) trimers on the surface of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) mediate the entry of the virus into host cells and serve as targets for neutralizing antibodies. The functional Env trimer is produced by cleavage of the gp160 precursor in the infected cell.
Multiplexed Simian Immunodeficiency Virus-Specific Paired RNA-Guided Cas9 Nickases Inactivate Proviral DNA
Authors: Smith Lisa M. , Ladner Jason T. , Hodara Vida L. , Parodi Laura M. , Harris R. Alan , Callery Jessica E. , Lai Zhao , Zou Yi , Raveedran Muthuswamy , Rogers Jeffrey , Giavedoni Luis D.
Published: September 2021

Our approach to HIV cure, utilizing the translatable SIV/rhesus macaque model system, aims at provirus inactivation and its removal with the least possible off-target side effects. We developed single molecules that delivered either three truncated SIV-specific gRNAs along with Cas9 nuclease or three pairs of SIV-specific gRNAs (six individual gRNAs) along with Cas9 nickase to enhance efficacy of on-target mutagenesis.
Serum Neutralizing Activity of mRNA-1273 against SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Choi Angela , Koch Matthew , Wu Kai , Dixon Groves , Oestreicher Judy , Legault Holly , Stewart-Jones Guillaume B. E. , Colpitts Tonya , Pajon Rolando , Bennett Hamilton , Carfi Andrea , Edwards Darin K.
Published: September 2021

In light of multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 that have been documented globally during the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains important to continually assess the ability of currently available vaccines to confer protection against newly emerging variants. Data presented herein indicate that immunization with the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine produces neutralizing antibodies against key emerging variants tested, including variants of concern and variants of interest.
Tracing Transmission of Sin Nombre Virus and Discovery of Infection in Multiple Rodent Species
Authors: Goodfellow Samuel M. , Nofchissey Robert A. , Schwalm Kurt C. , Cook Joseph A. , Dunnum Jonathan L. , Guo Yan , Ye Chunyan , Mertz Gregory J. , Chandran Kartik , Harkins Michelle , Domman Daryl B. , Dinwiddie Darrell L. , Bradfute Steven B.
Published: September 2021

Orthohantaviruses cause severe disease in humans and can be lethal in up to 40% of cases. Sin Nombre orthohantavirus (SNV) is the main cause of hantavirus disease in North America.
Sustained Replication of Synthetic Canine Distemper Virus Defective Genomes
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Authors: Tilston-Lunel Natasha L. , Welch Stephen R. , Nambulli Sham , de Vries Rory D. , Ho Gregory W. , Wentworth David E. , Shabman Reed , Nichol Stuart T. , Spiropoulou Christina F. , de Swart Rik L. , Rennick Linda J. , Duprex W. Paul
Published: September 2021

Defective interfering (DI) genomes have long been considered inconvenient artifacts that suppressed viral replication
in vitro
. However, advances in sequencing technologies have led to DI genomes being identified in clinical samples, implicating them in disease progression and outcome.
Comparison of Dried Blood Spots and Venous Blood for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in a Population of Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Meyers Eline , Heytens Stefan , Formukong Asangwing , Vercruysse Hanne , De Sutter An , Geens Tom , Hofkens Kenneth , Janssens Heidi , Nys Eveline , Padalko Elizaveta , Deschepper Ellen , Cools Piet
Published: September 2021

Since the implementation of newly developed SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in the general population, serological tests are of increasing importance. Because DBS samples can be obtained with a finger prick and can be shipped and stored at room temperature, they are optimal for use in large-scale SARS-CoV-2 serosurveillance or postauthorization vaccination studies, even in an elderly study population.
SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Rapid Tests: Valuable Epidemiological Tools in Challenging Settings
Authors: Saluzzo Francesca , Mantegani Paola , Poletti De Chaurand Valeria , Quaresima Virginia , Cugnata Federica , Di Serio Clelia , Macé Aurélien , De Vos Margaretha , Sacks Jilian A. , Cirillo Daniela Maria
Published: September 2021

Our study provides a fresh perspective on the possible employment of SARS-CoV-2 LFA antibody tests. We developed an in-depth, large-scale analysis comparing LFA performance to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) and evaluating their sensitivity and specificity in identifying COVID-19 patients at different time points from symptom onset.
Role of Dicer-Dependent RNA Interference in Regulating Mycoparasitic Interactions
Authors: Piombo Edoardo , Vetukuri Ramesh R. , Broberg Anders , Kalyandurg Pruthvi B. , Kushwaha Sandeep , Funck Jensen Dan , Karlsson Magnus , Dubey Mukesh
Published: September 2021

Small RNAs mediated RNA interference (RNAi) known to regulate several biological processes. Dicer-like endoribonucleases (DCLs) play a vital role in the RNAi pathway by generating sRNAs.
Supplemental Material: Geologic map of central Panamint Range, California, USA
Authors: Andrew J.E.
Published: September 2021

Digital map data files in ArcGIS shapefile format for data collection points, geologic contacts, and geologic unit polygons.
Novel Strained Alicyclic Hydrocarbons Based on 5-Methylene-2-norbornene
Authors: Zarezin D. P. , Rudakova M. A. , Samoilov V. O. , Sultanova M. U. , Maximov A. L. , Bermeshev M. V.
Published: September 2021

The paper describes the synthesis of novel strained hydrocarbons based on a
diene of the norbornene series, namely 5-methylene-2-norbornene, using catalytic
cyclopropanation with diazomethane. The study demonstrated the possibility of
selective cyclopropanation solely along the endocyclic double bond. The
physicochemical properties of the hydrocarbons were investigated systematically.
These hydrocarbons were shown to have an advantageous combination of high
density, low freezing point, and high energy density value. The study’s findings
indicate that the compounds synthesized are promising as a component of
high-energy-density fuels for modern jet engines.
Two-Level Regression Method Using Ensembles of Trees with Optimal Divergence
Authors: Zhuravlev Yu. I. , Senko O. V. , Dokukin A. A. , Kiselyova N. N. , Saenko I. A.
Published: September 2021

The article discusses a new two-level regression analysis method in which a corrective procedure is applied to optimal ensembles of regression trees. Optimization is carried out based on the simultaneous achievement of the divergence of the algorithms in the forecast space and a good approximation of the data by individual algorithms of the ensemble. Simple averaging, random regression forest, and gradient boosting are used as corrective procedures. Experiments are presented comparing the proposed method with the standard decision forest and the standard gradient boosting method for decision trees.
Arthroscopic Bankart versus open Latarjet as a primary operative treatment for traumatic anteroinferior instability in young males: a randomised controlled trial with 2-year follow-up
Authors: Kukkonen Juha , Elamo Sami , Flinkkilä Tapio , Paloneva Juha , Mäntysaari Miia , Joukainen Antti , Lehtinen Janne , Lepola Vesa , Holstila Milja , Kauko Tommi , Aarimaa Ville
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To compare the success rates of arthroscopic Bankart and open Latarjet procedure in the treatment of traumatic shoulder instability in young males.

Design

Multicentre randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Orthopaedic departments in eight public hospitals in Finland.

Participants

122 young males, mean age 21 years (range 16–25 years) with traumatic shoulder anteroinferior instability were randomised.

Interventions

Arthroscopic Bankart (group B) or open Latarjet (group L) procedure.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome measure was the reported recurrence of instability, that is, dislocation at 2-year follow-up. The secondary outcome measures included clinical apprehension, sports activity level, the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index, the pain Visual Analogue Scale, the Oxford Shoulder Instability Score, the Constant Score and the Subjective Shoulder Value scores and the progression of osteoarthritic changes in plain films and MRI.

Results

91 patients were available for analyses at 2-year follow-up (drop-out rate 25%). There were 10 (21%) patients with redislocations in group B and 1 (2%) in group L, p=0.006. One (9%) patient in group B and five (56%) patients in group L returned to their previous top level of competitive sports (p=0.004) at follow-up. There was no statistically significant between group differences in any of the other secondary outcome measures.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic Bankart operation carries a significant risk for short-term postoperative redislocations compared with open Latarjet operation, in the treatment of traumatic anteroinferior instability in young males. Patients should be counselled accordingly before deciding the surgical treatment.

Trial registration number

NCT01998048.
High-flow nasal cannula therapy in a predominantly African American population with COVID-19 associated acute respiratory failure
Authors: Nguyen Paul L , Osman Heba , Watza Donovan , Khicher Suman , Sharma Aditi , Dyson Greg , Saydain Ghulam , Soubani Ayman
Published: September 2021

Importance

Use of non-invasive respiratory modalities in COVID-19 has the potential to reduce rates of intubation and mortality in severe disease however data regarding the use of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) in this population is limited.

Objective

To interrogate clinical and laboratory features of SARS-CoV-2 infection associated with high-flow failure.

Design

We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate characteristics of high-flow therapy use early in the pandemic and interrogate factors associated with respiratory therapy failure.

Setting

Multisite single centre hospital system within the metropolitan Detroit region.

Participants

Patients from within the Detroit Medical Center (n=104, 89% African American) who received HFNC therapy during a COVID-19 admission between March and May of 2020.

Primary outcome

HFNC failure is defined as death or intubation while on therapy.

Results

Therapy failure occurred in 57% of the patient population, factors significantly associated with failure centred around markers of multiorgan failure including hepatic dysfunction/transaminitis (OR=6.1, 95% CI 1.9 to 19.4, p<0.01), kidney injury (OR=7.0, 95% CI 2.7 to 17.8, p<0.01) and coagulation dysfunction (OR=4.5, 95% CI 1.2 to 17.1, p=0.03). Conversely, comorbidities, admission characteristics, early oxygen requirements and evaluation just prior to HFNC therapy initiation were not significantly associated with success or failure of therapy.

Conclusions

In a population disproportionately affected by COVID-19, we present key indicators of likely HFNC failure and highlight a patient population in which aggressive monitoring and intervention are warranted.
Probability-based static truck loading model for rural bridges in Saskatchewan
Authors: Doan Kien T. , Feldman Lisa R. , Sparling Bruce F.
Published: September 2021

A study was conducted to establish a new truck load model intended for the evaluation and design of bridges with simple spans of 20 m or less located on rural roads in Saskatchewan. Monte Carlo simulation was used to generate truck data sets based on site-specific traffic conditions determined from a traffic count program conducted between 2008 and 2012 across all 296 rural municipalities, and data collected from six weigh-in-motion stations in the province from January to December 2013. All axle weights and spacings were modelled as probabilistic parameters. The critical truck configuration featured a truck tractor with a steering axle and tandem axle group, and a truck trailer with a tridem axle group. Truck models with a common axle configuration but varying weights were developed for various reference periods that reliably reproduced extreme nominal load effects over those periods. The use of other data sets may lead to different results.
Gravitational decoupling and superfluid stars
Authors: da Rocha Roldao
Published: September 2021

The gravitational decoupling is applied to studying minimal geometric deformed (MGD) compact superfluid stars, in covariant logarithmic scalar gravity on fluid branes. The brane finite tension is shown to provide more realistic values for the asymptotic value of the mass function of MGD superfluid stars, besides constraining the range of the self-interacting scalar field, minimally coupled to gravity. Several other physical features of MGD superfluid stars, regulated by the finite brane tension and a decoupling parameter, are derived and discussed, with important corrections to the general-relativistic limit that corroborate to current observational data.
Traffic dynamics on homogeneous networks with community structure
Authors: Ma Jinlong , An Zishuo , Zhou Yi , Zhang Yi , Xu Xiangyang , Li Sufeng
Published: September 2021

In complex networks, how topology structures influence the traffic dynamics on networks is a hot topic. The existence of structure within communities may affect the transmission of data packets in the network. In this paper, we investigate the impact of community structure on traffic dynamics in random networks which are homogeneous. It is found that three key factors influence traffic capacity in such community networks: community number, community strength, and average node degree. The increase of average node degree increases traffic capacity, while the increase of community number and community strength decreases traffic capacity.
Natural higher-derivatives generalization for the Klein–Gordon equation
Authors: Thibes Ronaldo
Published: September 2021

We propose a natural family of higher-order partial differential equations generalizing the second-order Klein–Gordon equation. We characterize the associated model by means of a generalized action for a scalar field, containing higher-derivative terms. The limit obtained by considering arbitrarily higher-order powers of the d’Alembertian operator leading to a formal infinite-order partial differential equation is discussed. The general model is constructed using the exponential of the d’Alembertian differential operator. The canonical energy–momentum tensor densities and field propagators are explicitly computed. We consider both homogeneous and non-homogeneous situations. The classical solutions are obtained for all cases.
Deformed Kac–Moody algebra and noncommutative Fermi theory in two dimensions
Authors: AlMasri M. W. , Wahiddin M. R. B.
Published: September 2021

Starting from noncommutative Fermi theory in two dimensions, we construct a deformed Kac–Moody algebra between its vector and chiral currents. The higher-order corrections to the deformed Kac–Moody algebra are explicitly calculated. We observe that the ordinary Schwinger terms are not affected by noncommutativity. Finally we conclude that the deformed Kac–Moody algebra can be given in term of ordinary Kac–Moody algebra plus infinitely many Lie algebraic structures at each nonzero power of the antisymmetric coefficient [Formula: see text].
On black hole formation in higher dimensions
Authors: Dadhich Naresh , Shaymatov Sanjar
Published: September 2021

The two main processes of black hole formation are collapse of a matter cloud under its own gravity and accretion of matter onto an already existing gravitating centre. The necessary condition for both the processes to operate is that overall force on collapsing fluid element or on test accreting particles is attractive. It turns out that this is not the case in general in higher dimensions greater than the usual four for collapsing or accreting matter having nonzero angular momentum. Thus, both these processes cannot operate in higher dimensions to form a rotating black hole. The only theory in which this is not the case in higher dimensions is the pure Lovelock gravity, where both these processes could in principle work for formation of black holes.
TRANSITIONAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP: ESTABLISHING THE PARAMETERS OF THE FIELD
Authors: BRUTON GARRY D , PILLAI JAYARETHANAM , SHENG NAIHENG
Published: September 2021

Although scholars often argue that entrepreneurship can be life-changing, they increasingly recognize that entrepreneurship centered on helping people overcome dire conditions merits specific investigation. Such entrepreneurship to overcome dire/desperate conditions in mature economies is commonly referred to as transitional entrepreneurship. We establish the boundaries of this unique form of entrepreneurship by examining the prior studies that have looked at such transitions in mature economies. We further build on our insights by looking at specific cases of transitional entrepreneurship. Finally, we lay out a research agenda that will help build the foundation of understanding of transitional entrepreneurship.
Metal templated synthesis of a dipyridazinamethyrin and its properties
Authors: Xu Kui , Ding Wenjing , Liu Guopeng , Ma Wanzun , Yin Yu , Chen Xi , Wu Lamei , Ding Lili , Zhang Zhan
Published: September 2021

Presented here is the stepwise and one-pot synthesis of a dipyridazinamethyrin, 1. In either synthetic route, a proper metal cation template was found necessary. 1H NMR and UV-Vis absorption studies suggest this macrocycle exhibits a non-aromatic nature. DFT calculations suggest that the optimized structure of this macrocycle is slightly ruffled rather than planar.
On LB-Valued GFA: An LB-Valued Operator Oriented View with t-Norm/t-Conorm and Implicators
Authors: Abolpour Kh.
Published: September 2021

This study aims at investigating [Formula: see text]-valued general fuzzy automata, for simplicity, [Formula: see text]-valued GFA, with respect to their algebraic properties and based on t-norm/t-conorm and general implicators, where [Formula: see text] stands for residuated lattice and [Formula: see text] is a set of propositions about the GFA, in which its underlying structure is a complete infinitely distributive lattice. Specifically, we introduce the concepts of [Formula: see text]-valued operators with t-norm and [Formula: see text]-valued operators with t-conorm. We also examine the relationships between the [Formula: see text]-valued operators with t-norm and [Formula: see text]-valued operators with t-conorm. Finally, we introduce the concepts of [Formula: see text]-valued operators with implicator and study the relationships between the [Formula: see text]-valued operators with the implicator and the [Formula: see text]-valued operators with t-norm/t-conorm. To clarify the notions and the results obtained in this study, some examples are submitted as well.
Trustworthy AI
Authors: Wing Jeannette M.
Published: September 2021

The pursuit of responsible AI raises the ante on both the trustworthy computing and formal methods communities.
A new era for mechanical CAD
Authors: Frazelle Jessie
Published: September 2021

Time to move forward from decades-old design.
RAP: A Software Framework of Developing Convolutional Neural Networks for Resource-constrained Devices Using Environmental Monitoring as a Case Study
Authors: Tu Chia-Heng , Sun Qihui , Chang Hsiao-Hsuan
Published: September 2021

Monitoring environmental conditions is an important application of cyber-physical systems. Typically, the monitoring is to perceive surrounding environments with battery-powered, tiny devices deployed in the field. While deep learning-based methods, especially the convolutional neural networks (CNNs), are promising approaches to enriching the functionalities offered by the tiny devices, they demand more computation and memory resources, which makes these methods difficult to be adopted on such devices. In this article, we develop a software framework,
RAP
, that permits the construction of the CNN designs by aggregating the existing, lightweight CNN layers, which are able to fit in the limited memory (e.g., several KBs of SRAM) on the resource-constrained devices satisfying application-specific timing constrains. RAP leverages the Python-based neural network framework
Chainer
to build the CNNs by mounting the C/C++ implementations of the lightweight layers, trains the built CNN models as the ordinary model-training procedure in Chainer, and generates the C version codes of the trained models. The generated programs are compiled into target machine executables for the on-device inferences. With the vigorous development of lightweight CNNs, such as binarized neural networks with binary weights and activations, RAP facilitates the model building process for the resource-constrained devices by allowing them to alter, debug, and evaluate the CNN designs over the C/C++ implementation of the lightweight CNN layers. We have prototyped the RAP framework and built two environmental monitoring applications for protecting endangered species using image- and acoustic-based monitoring methods. Our results show that the built model consumes less than 0.5 KB of SRAM for buffering the runtime data required by the model inference while achieving up to 93% of accuracy for the acoustic monitoring with less than one second of inference time on the TI 16-bit microcontroller platform.
The role of professional certifications in computer occupations
Authors: Tannian Mark , Coston Willie
Published: September 2021

Experienced and aspiring computing professionals need to manage their qualifications according to current market needs. That includes certification achievement as well as formal education, experience, and licenses.
Exploring Efficient Architectures on Remote In-Memory NVM over RDMA
Authors: Zhuge Qingfeng , Zhang Hao , Sha Edwin Hsing-Mean , Xu Rui , Liu Jun , Zhang Shengyu
Published: September 2021

Efficiently accessing remote file data remains a challenging problem for data processing systems. Development of technologies in non-volatile dual in-line memory modules (NVDIMMs), in-memory file systems, and RDMA networks provide new opportunities towards solving the problem of remote data access. A general understanding about NVDIMMs, such as Intel Optane DC Persistent Memory (DCPM), is that they expand main memory capacity with a cost of multiple times lower performance than DRAM. With an in-depth exploration presented in this paper, however, we show an interesting finding that the potential of NVDIMMs for high-performance, remote in-memory accesses can be revealed through careful design. We explore multiple architectural structures for accessing remote NVDIMMs in a real system using Optane DCPM, and compare the performance of various structures. Experiments are conducted to show significant performance gaps among different ways of using NVDIMMs as memory address space accessible through RDMA interface. Furthermore, we design and implement a prototype of user-level, in-memory file system, RIMFS, in the device DAX mode on Optane DCPM. By comparing against the DAX-supported Linux file system, Ext4-DAX, we show that the performance of remote reads on RIMFS over RDMA is 11.44

higher than that on a remote Ext4-DAX on average. The experimental results also show that the performance of remote accesses on RIMFS is maintained on a heavily loaded data server with CPU utilization as high as 90%, while the performance of remote reads on Ext4-DAX is significantly reduced by 49.3%, and the performance of local reads on Ext4-DAX is even more significantly reduced by 90.1%. The performance comparisons of writes exhibit the same trends.
Specification Guided Automated Synthesis of Feedback Controllers
Authors: Singh Nikhil Kumar , Saha Indranil
Published: September 2021

The growing use of complex Cyber-Physical Systems (CPSs) in safety-critical applications has led to the demand for the automatic synthesis of robust feedback controllers that satisfy a given set of formal specifications. Controller synthesis from the high-level specification is an NP-Hard problem. We propose a heuristic-based automated technique that synthesizes feedback controllers guided by Signal Temporal Logic (STL) specifications. Our technique involves rigorous analysis of the traces generated by the closed-loop system, matrix decomposition, and an incremental multi-parameter tuning procedure. In case a controller cannot be found to satisfy all the specifications, we propose a technique for modifying the unsatisfiable specifications so that the controller synthesized for the satisfiable subset of specifications now also satisfies the modified specifications. We demonstrate our technique on eleven controllers used as standard closed-loop control system benchmarks, including complex controllers having multiple independent or nested control loops. Our experimental results establish that the proposed algorithm can automatically solve complex feedback controller synthesis problems within a few minutes.