bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Machine Learning‐Assisted Approach to a Rapid and Reliable Screening for Mechanically Stable Perovskite‐Based Materials
Authors: Jaafreh Russlan , Sharan Abhishek , Sajjad Muhammad , Singh Nirpendra , Hamad Kotiba
Published: November 2022

The present work is designed to discover new perovskite‐based materials, which are expected to show high mechanical stability during their applications, using machine learning (ML) techniques, and based on the Pugh's criterion for distinguishing brittle and ductile behaviors. For this purpose, ML models to predict the moduli of materials, bulk (B) and shear (G), are built using their crystal structure and composition information. The ML process is initiated with the information of 5663 compounds, including composition, crystal structure and moduli, as listed in AFLOW database. Following a procedure of data characteristics, feature generation, feature processing, training, and testing, the ML models are constructed with acceptable accuracy (tenfold cross‐validation R2score of 0.90 and 0.89 for B and G, respectively). The validation process of the models, which is conducted using the corresponding density functional theory calculations, reveals that these models are reliable to be employed in a large‐scale screening process. Indeed, the B‐ and G‐based ML models are incorporated in a screening process, and this is also conjugated with other screening criterions, to find out thermodynamically stable and formable perovskite‐based materials with improved mechanical performance.
Achieving Large Second Harmonic Generation Effects via Optimal Planar Alignment of Triangular Units
Authors: Li Xin‐Yu , Wei Qi , Hu Chun‐Li , Pan Jie , Li Bing‐Xuan , Xue Zhen‐Zhen , Li Xiao‐Yu , Li Jin‐Hua , Mao Jiang‐Gao , Wang Guo‐Ming
Published: November 2022

Trigonal planar units with large polarizability anisotropy and high physicochemical stability are ideal structural units for exploring nonlinear optical (NLO) materials. Integrating the merits of two types of triangular‐like moieties, a family of second‐order NLO‐active hybrid halides, MATX (X = Cl (1), Br (2), and I (3)), are achieved. MATX crystallizes in a nonpolar space group of 2c but exhibits the optimal spatial arrangement and superior NLO performance. The low coordination planar trigonal AgX3 units enable segregation in layers of the three‐winged propeller‐like Me3TPA units. All of the layers are packed in a perfect parallel fashion, making the functional materials exhibit superior NLO performances, including the phase matchable behavior with strong SHG responses (6.2/1, 6.5/2, and 7.6/3 times that of potassium dihydrogen phosphate), large birefringence (0.232/1, 0.252/2 and 0.260/3 at 1064 nm), high laser damage threshold, wide transparent window, and easiness of crystal growth. The first‐principles calculations reveal that the coexistence of strong linear and nonlinear optical properties are ascribed to the synergistic effect of the trigonal moieties. This study points out a useful path for the rational design of excellent NLO materials.
Multi‐Targeting Nano‐Systems Targeting Heterogeneous Cancer Cells for Therapeutics and Biomarker Detection
Authors: Ren Xiao‐He , Han Di , He Xiao‐Yan , Guo Tao , Chen Xue‐Si , Pang Xuan , Cheng Si‐Xue
Published: November 2022

Cancer heterogeneity plays a vital part in cancer resistance and metastasis. To provide a reliable approach to exert a therapy action and evaluate its efficiency in heterogeneous cancer cells, a multiple targeting delivery vector composed of histone encapsulating the therapeutic or diagnostic agent, hyaluronic acid targeting CD44 overexpressed in stem tumor cells, SYL3C aptamer targeting epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) overexpressed in epithelial cancer cells, and CL4 aptamer targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpressed in mesenchymal cancer cells, is developed. The vector can efficiently target different cancer cells and circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in the peripheral blood of patients for mucin 1 (MUC1) knockout. Furthermore, the multiple targeting vector can be used to co‐encapsulate three types of molecular beacons for probing various mRNA biomarkers at single‐cell resolution after genome editing. This study provides an efficient approach for exerting therapeutic actions in heterogeneous cancer cells and assessing the therapeutic efficacy by detection of cancer biomarkers via liquid biopsy.
Machine Learning for Optical Scanning Probe Nanoscopy
Authors: Chen Xinzhong , Xu Suheng , Shabani Sara , Zhao Yueqi , Fu Matthew , Millis Andrew J. , Fogler Michael M. , Pasupathy Abhay N. , Liu Mengkun , Basov D. N.
Published: November 2022

The ability to perform nanometer‐scale optical imaging and spectroscopy is key to deciphering the low‐energy effects in quantum materials, as well as vibrational fingerprints in planetary and extraterrestrial particles, catalytic substances, and aqueous biological samples. These tasks can be accomplished by the scattering‐type scanning near‐field optical microscopy (s‐SNOM) technique that has recently spread to many research fields and enabled notable discoveries. Herein, it is shown that the s‐SNOM, together with scanning probe research in general, can benefit in many ways from artificial‐intelligence (AI) and machine‐learning (ML) algorithms. Augmented with AI‐ and ML‐enhanced data acquisition and analysis, scanning probe optical nanoscopy is poised to become more efficient, accurate, and intelligent.
Laser‐Based Micro/Nano‐Processing Techniques for Microscale LEDs and Full‐Color Displays
Authors: Gong Yanfen , Gong Zheng
Published: November 2022

Micro light‐emitting diode (Micro‐LED) display is an emerging display technology thanks to its high brightness, fast switching speed, and low power consumption. The commercialization of this technique is being explored by developing advanced processing techniques on an industrial scale. Recent ground‐breaking advances in the manufacture of Micro‐LEDs are mainly based on powerful laser micro/nano‐processing techniques with the unique ability to fabricate materials, structures and devices with the advantages of non‐contacting processing, high efficiency, adjustable coverage from micro‐ to macroscale and the compatibility with organic and inorganic materials. This paper categorizes, reviews and analyzes the main challenges and technical solutions in the Micro‐LED displays by various laser manufacturing processes, covering chip dicing, geometry shaping, laser annealing, laser lift‐off (LLO), laser‐based Micro‐LED transfer, laser‐assist bonding (LAB) and laser repair. The fundamental principles of these techniques are discussed along with their basic mechanisms, followed by an exploration of the latest progress in the field. Finally, a detailed analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques is given, and the future research directions of laser techniques in Micro‐LED display are discussed.
Promoting near‐infrared II fluorescence efficiency by blocking long‐range energy migration
Authors: Ou Changjin , An Lei , Zhao Ziqi , Gao Fan , Zheng Liangyu , Xu Chao , Zhang Kang , Shao Jinjun , Xie Linghai , Dong Xiaochen
Published: November 2022

Generally, long wavelength absorbed near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) dyes have a low fluorescence efficiency in aggregate states for aggregate‐caused quenching effect, simultaneously enhancing efficiency and extending absorption is a challenging issue for NIR‐II dyes. Here, three benzo[1,2‐c:4,5‐c']bis[1,2,5]thiadiazole (BBT) derivatives (TPA‐BBT, FT‐BBT, and BTBT‐BBT) are used to clarify fluorescence quenching mechanisms. When the BBT derivatives are doped into a small molecule matrix, they show quite different fluorescence behaviors. Structure‐distorted TPA‐BBT displays fluorescence quenching originating from short‐range exchange interaction, while FT‐BBT and BTBT‐BBT with a co‐planar‐conjugated backbone exhibit concentration‐dependent quenching processes, namely changing from long‐range dipole‐dipole interaction to exchange interaction, which could be majorly ascribed to large spectral overlap between absorption and emission. By precisely tuning doping concentration, both FT‐BBT and BTBT‐BBT nanoparticles (NPs) present the optimal NIR‐II fluorescence brightness at ∼2.5 wt% doping concentration. The doped NPs have good biocompatibility and could be served as fluorescence contrast agents for vascular imaging with a high resolution under 980‐nm laser excitation. Those paradigms evidence that molecular doping can promote fluorescence efficiency of long wavelength‐absorbed NIR‐II fluorophores via suppressing long‐range energy migration.
Targeting climate‐neutral hydrogen production: Integrating brown and blue pathways with green hydrogen infrastructure via a novel superstructure and simulation‐based life cycle optimization
Authors: Lal Apoorv , You Fengqi
Published: November 2022

This article addresses the sustainable design of hydrogen (H2) production systems that integrate brown and blue pathways with green hydrogen infrastructure. We develop a systematic framework to simultaneously optimize the process superstructure and operating conditions of steam methane reforming (SMR)‐based hydrogen production systems. A comprehensive superstructure that integrates SMR with multiple carbon dioxide capture technologies, electrolyzers, fuel cells, and working fluids in the organic rankine cycle is proposed under varying operating conditions. A life cycle optimization model is then developed by integrating superstructure optimization, life cycle assessment approach, techno‐economic assessment, and process optimization using extensive process simulation models and formulated as a mixed‐integer nonlinear program. We find that the optimal unit‐levelized cost of hydrogen ranges from $1.49 to $3.18 per kg H2. Moreover, the most environmentally friendly process attains net‐zero life cycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to 10.55 kg CO2‐eq per kg H2 for the most economically competitive process design.
Asymmetric bipolar membrane electrodialysis for acid and base production
Authors: Fu Rong , Wang Huangying , Yan Junying , Li Ruirui , Jiang Chenxiao , Wang Yaoming , Xu Tongwen
Published: November 2022

Bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED) is a promising technique for upgrading traditional manufacturing procedures and achieving a circular economy. However, the industrial applications of BMED technology have been restricted by the large consumption of expensive bipolar membranes and the unmatching behavior between water splitting and ion migration. Herein, we proposed a novel asymmetric bipolar membrane electrodialysis (ABMED) to regulate the water splitting in the bipolar membrane and orientational ion migration in the electrodialysis (ED). It was found that the ABMED exhibited comparable performances to BMED for acid/base production when the area of the bipolar membrane was reduced to 50% of the monopolar membrane. The total process cost of ABMED was 0.78 $/kg NaOH, which is 21% lower than the BMED process. The asymmetric membrane design was capable to boost the water splitting in the bipolar membrane and to eliminate the concentration polarization in the ED process.
18‐year follow‐up of enzyme‐replacement therapy in two siblings with attenuated mucopolysaccharidosis I
Authors: Pjetraj Dorina , Santoro Lucia , Sgattoni Claudia , Padella Lucia , Zampini Lucia , Monachesi Chiara , Gabrielli Orazio , Catassi Carlo
Published: November 2022

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by the deficiency of α‐L‐iduronidase and characterized by a progressive course with multisystem involvement. Clinically, MPS I is divided into two forms: (1) severe (Hurler syndrome), which presents in infancy and is characterized by rapid progressive neurological involvement; (2) attenuated (Hurler/Scheie and Scheie syndromes), which displays a slower progression and absent to mild nervous system involvement. The specific treatment for attenuated MPS I consists of enzyme‐replacement therapy with laronidase (human recombinant α‐L‐iduronidase, Aldurazyme). We present updated data after 18 years of laronidase treatment in two siblings affected by the attenuated form of MPS I who started therapy at 5 months and 5 years of age, respectively. Clinical and laboratory data of the siblings show that long‐term enzyme replacement therapy may improve/stabilize many symptoms already present at the time of the diagnosis and reduce the disease progression. This study confirms that early diagnosis and early initiation of enzyme‐replacement therapy are essential to modify positively the natural history of the attenuated form of MPS I.
High‐Capacity Zinc Anode with 96 % Utilization Rate Enabled by Solvation Structure Design
Authors: Wang Mingming , Ma Jiale , Meng Yahan , Sun Jifei , Yuan Yuan , Chuai Mingyan , Chen Na , Xu Yan , Zheng Xinhua , Li Zhenyu , Chen Wei
Published: November 2022

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZBs) show promises for large‐scale energy storage. However, the zinc utilization rate (ZUR) is generally low due to side reactions in the aqueous electrolyte caused by the active water molecules. Here, we design a novel solvation structure in the electrolyte by introduction of sulfolane (SL). Theoretical calculations, molecular dynamics simulations and experimental tests show that SL remodels the primary solvation shell of Zn2+, which significantly reduces the side reactions of Zn anode and achieves high ZUR under large capacities. Specifically, the symmetric and asymmetric cells could achieve a maximum of ∼96 % ZUR at an areal capacity of 24 mAh cm−2. In a ZUR of ∼67 %, the developed Zn−V2O5 full cell can be stably cycled for 500 cycles with an energy density of 180 Wh kg−1 and Zn‐AC capacitor is stable for 5000 cycles. This electrolyte structural engineering strategy provides new insight into achieving high ZUR of Zn anodes for high performance AZBs.
A De Novo‐Designed Type 3 Copper Protein Tunes Catechol Substrate Recognition and Reactivity
Authors: Pirro Fabio , La Gatta Salvatore , Arrigoni Federica , Famulari Antonino , Maglio Ornella , Del Vecchio Pompea , Chiesa Mario , De Gioia Luca , Bertini Luca , Chino Marco , Nastri Flavia , Lombardi Angela
Published: November 2022

De novo metalloprotein design is a remarkable approach to shape protein scaffolds toward specific functions. Here, we report the design and characterization of Due Rame 1 (DR1), a de novo designed protein housing a di‐copper site and mimicking the Type 3 (T3) copper‐containing polyphenol oxidases (PPOs). To achieve this goal, we hierarchically designed the first and the second di‐metal coordination spheres to engineer the di‐copper site into a simple four‐helix bundle scaffold. Spectroscopic, thermodynamic, and functional characterization revealed that DR1 recapitulates the T3 copper site, supporting different copper redox states, and being active in the O2‐dependent oxidation of catechols to o‐quinones. Careful design of the residues lining the substrate access site endows DR1 with substrate recognition, as revealed by Hammet analysis and computational studies on substituted catechols. This study represents a premier example in the construction of a functional T3 copper site into a designed four‐helix bundle protein.
Pecan (Carya illinoinensis) oil consumer hedonic rating, sensory characteristic, satiating and energizing effect, and drivers of overall acceptance
Authors: Du Xiaofen , Muniz Adriana , Juma Shanil
Published: November 2022

With increasing global health and wellness product needs, pecan oil is getting popular in recent years. Although considered a gourmet oil because of its unique sensory and nutritional values, there is no publication focusing on consumer attitude toward pecan oil. This study, for the first time, investigated consumer acceptance, sensory quality, and emotional response to five pecan oils from native and improved varieties, with a comparison to an olive oil. All five pecan oils had positive hedonic ratings (>5, with a 9‐point hedonic scale) for overall acceptance and the acceptance of oil flavor, raw‐nut flavor, and thickness, while the olive oil was rated slightly lower than 5 for these attributes. Pecan oils had higher intensities in raw‐nut flavor, but lower in overall oil flavor, fatty flavor, astringency, and thickness compared to olive oil. Off‐flavor was not perceived in pecan oils, whereas it was perceived in olive oil. The six oils did not show significant differences in satiating effects; however, olive oil was rated lower in energizing effects than pecan oils, which showed a significant variety difference (p ≤ 0.05). Consumer overall acceptance was significantly, positively driven by energizing effects, followed by the acceptability of raw‐nut flavor, thickness, and oil flavor; off‐flavors were negative drivers. Results obtained from this study add direct pecan oil consumer insight: an asset for pecan growers, pecan processing industry, and pecan oil marketers.
Physical properties and ion permeability of crosslinking hydrogel membrane based on poly(vinyl alcohol) for soilless cultivation
Authors: Seeponkai Narumon , Khammuang Kwanniti , Fuggate Puwanart , Seephonkai Prapairat
Published: November 2022

Crosslinking hydrogel membranes were prepared by esterification reaction with different ratios of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA). The purpose of the study was to research the effect of the crosslinking agent PAA on the hydrogel properties of the membranes used for soilless cultivation. Increasing of PAA ratio resulted in a significant increase in the crosslinking density (ρx) and a decrease in the average molecular weight of the polymer chain between the crosslinks () and the mesh size (ξ) of the hydrogel membranes. In addition, the ion permeability coefficient decreased when the PAA ratio increased. Increasing the PAA ratio significantly affected water uptake value, tensile strength, and elongation of the hydrogel membranes. A PVA:PAA ratio of 9:1 was suitable for plant cultivation. The cultivated plants germinated well and generated many small fine roots on the upper surface of the hydrogel membrane. These small fine roots adhered well to the hydrogel membrane to absorb the water and feed nutrient ions. This finding showed that the hydrogel membranes have the potential of being used for soilless cultivation in controlled experimental conditions.
Smart Nano‐switch with Flexible Modulation of Ion Transport Using Multiple Environmental Stimuli
Authors: Chen Li‐Dong , Wu Yuan‐Yi , Zhang Di , Cao Shuo‐Hui , Xu Lin‐Tao , Li Yao‐Qun
Published: November 2022

In this work, we demonstrate a unique nano‐switch with triple environmental stimuli based on the action of functional copolymer brushes in a single conical nanochannel. This nanodevice flexibly and efficiently modulates ion transport properties under the influence of three environmental stimuli: light, pH and temperature. The triple factors can not only play a regulatory role independently, but their synergistic cooperation could fully activate the ionic gate and reversibly control the gating direction. In addition, the nano‐switch can switch transport properties on demand in the face of complex combinations of different factors. This work promotes the development of intelligent bionic ion channels, which holds promise for biosensing, energy conversion and biomedical research.
Calibration of scientific reasoning ability
Authors: Drummond Otten Caitlin , Fischhoff Baruch
Published: November 2022

Scientific reasoning ability, the ability to reason critically about the quality of scientific evidence, can help laypeople use scientific evidence when making judgments and decisions. We ask whether individuals with greater scientific reasoning ability are also better calibrated with respect to their ability, comparing calibration for skill with the more widely studied calibration for knowledge. In three studies, participants (Study 1: N = 1022; Study 2: N = 101; and Study 3: N = 332) took the Scientific Reasoning Scale (SRS; Drummond & Fischhoff, 2017), comprised of 11 true–false problems, and provided confidence ratings for each problem. Overall, participants were overconfident, reporting mean confidence levels that were 22.4–25% higher than their percentages of correct answers; calibration improved with score. Study 2 found similar calibration patterns for the SRS and another skill, the Cognitive Reflection Test (CRT), measuring the ability to avoid intuitive but incorrect answers. SRS and CRT scores were both associated with success at avoiding negative decision outcomes, as measured by the Decision Outcomes Inventory; confidence on the SRS, above and beyond scores, predicted worse outcomes. Study 3 added an alternative measure of calibration, asking participants to estimate the number of items answered correctly. Participants were less overconfident by this measure. SRS scores predicted correct usage of scientific information in a drug facts box task and holding beliefs consistent with the scientific consensus on controversial issues; confidence, above and beyond SRS scores, predicted worse drug facts box performance but stronger science‐consistent beliefs. We discuss the implications of our findings for improving science‐relevant decision‐making.
Comprehensive investigation of a structural variant in a bi‐specific, N‐and C‐terminal Fc‐fusion molecule, and its monitoring with LC‐MS based method
Authors: Datola Antonio , Satwekar Abhijeet , Barron Nadine , DeRosa Sawako , Tomascak Brittany , Dawson Jessica , Palmese Angelo , Rossi Mara
Published: November 2022

There is an increasing interest in the generation of Fc‐fusion molecules to exploit the effector functions of Fc and the fusion partner, towards improving the therapeutic potential. The Fc‐fusion molecules have unique structural and functional attributes that impart various advantages. However, the manufacturing of Fc‐fusion molecules possesses certain challenges in the biopharmaceutical development. The fusion of unnaturally occurring two or more domains in a construct can pose problems for proper folding and are prone to aggregation and degradation. Reshuffling of disulfide bridges represents a posttranslational event that affects folding. This can play a critical role in the correct structure of a molecule and leads to structural heterogeneity in biotherapeutics; it may also impact the in vivo biological activities, safety, and efficacy of the biopharmaceutical. Our work presents an investigation case of a doublet band, as observed only in nonreducing sodium dodecyl sulfate ‐ polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) for a bi‐specific, N‐ and C‐terminal Fc‐fusion molecule. Other characterization and orthogonal methods from the analytical panel did not indicate the presence of two distinct species, including the orthogonal CE‐SDS (Caliper Lab Chip GXII). Therefore, it was necessary to determine if the phenomenon was an analytical artifact or a real variant of our Fc‐fusion molecule. With the comprehensive mass spectrometry‐based characterization, we were able to determine that the doublet band was related to the reshuffling of one disulfide bridge in one of the fused domains. Our work illustrates the application of nonreducing peptide mapping by mass spectrometry to characterize and identify disulfide variants in a complex N‐ and C‐terminal Fc‐fusion molecule, and further adoption to monitor the disulfide structural variants in the intermediate process samples to drive the manufacturing of a consistent product with the desired quality attributes.
Modular Peptide Probe for Protein Analysis
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Yuan Lizhen , Hu Jing‐Jing , Xia Fan , Lou Xiaoding
Published: November 2022

The analysis and regulation of proteins are of great significance for the development of disease diagnosis and treatment. However, complicated analytical environment and complex protein structure severely limit the accuracy of their analysis results. Nowadays, ascribing to the editability and bioactivity of peptides, peptide‐based probes could meet the requirements of good selectivity and high affinity to overcome the challenges. In this review, we summarize the advances in the use of modular peptide probes for proteins analysis. It focuses on how to design and optimize the structure of probes, as well as their performance. Then, the strategies and application to improve the analysis result of modular peptide probes are introduced. Finally, we also discuss current challenge and provide some ideas for the future direction for modular peptide probes, hoping to accelerate their clinical transformation.
Ebola deep wavelet extreme learning machine based chronic kidney disease prediction on the internet of medical things platform
Authors: Prasad Reddy Tatiparti B. , Vydeki D
Published: November 2022

Various significant methodologies have been developed in classifying chronic kidney disease (CKD). But still, there emerge certain drawbacks, including high storage space requirements, increased diagnosis time, high cost of computation, and degraded accuracy. Hence in the proposed research work, Ebola deep wavelet extreme learning machine (EDWELM) is proposed for the precise classification of CKD and non‐CKD. Initially, the accessed data are preprocessed by transforming categorical to numerical values and replacing missing values with median to remove unwanted distortions. In the feature selection process, the hybrid methodology of Darts game and Battle royale optimization called Darts Battle game optimizer is carried out to choose the most discriminative features for improving classification accuracy. The final step undertaken is the classification process, which is one of the important data mining applications for distinguishing the data classes. In the proposed EDWELM classification method, ELM based autoencoder, wavelet neural network, and Ebola optimization search algorithm are carried out for effective CKD classification. From the CKD dataset, the performance is analyzed to various terms like accuracy, F1 score, precision, recall, kappa, and balanced score. The accuracy of 99.83% is attained by the proposed EDWELM classification method, which is comparatively better than the existing approaches.
Electronic Substitution Effect on the Ground and Excited State Properties of Indole Chromophore: A Computational Study**
Authors: Ray Soumyadip , Mondal Padmabati
Published: November 2022

Indole, being the main chromophore of amino acid tryptophan and several other biologically relevant molecules like serotonin, melatonin, has prompted considerable theoretical and experimental interest. The current work focuses on the investigation of substitution effect on the ground and excited electronic states of indole using computational quantum chemistry. Having three close‐lying excited electronic states, the vibronic coupling effect becomes extremely important yet challenging for the photophysics and photochemistry of indole. Here, we have evaluated the performance of time‐dependent density functional theory against available experimental and ab initio results from the literature. The electronic effects on the excited states of indole and indole derivatives e. g. tryptophan, serotonin and melatonin are reported. A bathochromic shift has been observed in the absorption spectrum for the La state. The absorption wavelength increases in the order of indole<tryptophan <serotonin <melatonin. While the contribution of the in‐plane small adjacent groups increases the electron density of the indole ring, the out‐of‐plane long substituent groups have minor effect. The absorption spectra calculated including the vibronic coupling are in good agreement with experiments. These results can be used to estimate the error in photophysical observables of indole derivatives calculated considering indole as a prototypical system.
Remember These Best Practices When It Comes to Vertical Tillage
Authors: Ernst Matt
Published: November 2022

The popularity of vertical and hybrid tillage tools continues to grow east of the Mississippi. Pinpointing what producers mean when they say “vertical tillage” can be difficult. Today, it is often used as a more generic term for shallow soil tillage. This article provides some things to keep in mind with vertical tillage, including soil conditions, machine setup, fuel economy, timing, and more. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Soil & Water Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Orthogonal rational approximation of transfer functions for high‐frequency circuits
Authors: Ma Andrew , Engin Arif Ege
Published: November 2022

This paper introduces the orthogonal rational approximation (ORA) algorithm for rational function approximation of transfer functions, based on data available from simulations or measurements. A rational function allows integration of such data in transient solvers for analysis of high‐frequency circuits. In rational function approximation, the unknown denominator polynomial of the model results in a nonlinear problem, which can be replaced with successive solutions of linearized problems following the Sanathanan–Koerner (SK) iteration. An orthogonal basis can be obtained based on Arnoldi resulting in a stabilized SK iteration. We present an extension of the stabilized SK, called ORA, which ensures real polynomial coefficients and stable poles for realizability of electrical networks. We also introduce an efficient implementation of ORA for multiport networks based on a block QR decomposition.
Do animal personalities promote species coexistence? A test with sympatric boreal rodents
Authors: Morris Douglas W. , Palmer Sommer
Published: November 2022

The coexistence of competing species requires density feedbacks that have a larger effect on their own species' population growth than they do on others in the assembly. The feedbacks are often associated with behavioral tradeoffs that enable species to differentially exploit underlying axes of heterogeneity. Conjoining theories of species coexistence with foraging behavior and density‐dependent habitat selection reveals that such tradeoffs impinge on invasion probabilities and equilibrium dynamics emerging from species' differences in habitat use. The resulting habitat separation promotes coexistence by reducing the overall interaction among species. Differential habitat selection depends on the behavioral abilities of organisms to identify and exploit the most profitable habitats and resource patches. One might thus expect that each species will evolve behavioral types distinct from those of other potential competitors. Accordingly, we exposed four coexisting species in four genera of boreal rodents to open‐field tests. We used principal components (PC) to summarize their behaviors along three independent axes corresponding with clines of exploratory, vigilant, and apprehensive personalities. We confirmed that the axes represented repeatable behaviors (personalities) and assessed differences among species with a general linear model (GLM). The GLM revealed highly distinct differences among species, and between pairs of species, on each PC. Even so, it is difficult to infer the adaptive advantages of personality to the habitat segregation that reduces otherwise high interactions among species. Rather, personalities are best interpreted as co‐adaptive behaviors reflecting the complex of morphological, physiological and behavioral attributes that dictate tradeoffs and enable coexistence.
Circulating differentiated and senescent lymphocyte subsets and incident diabetes risk in older adults: The Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Olson Nels C. , Doyle Margaret F. , Buzkova Petra , Huber Sally A. , de Boer Ian H. , Sitlani Colleen M. , Tracy Russell P. , Psaty Bruce M. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Delaney Joseph A.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Cellular senescence is a feature of aging implicated in the pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus (DM). Whether senescent lymphocytes are associated with the future occurrence of DM is uncertain.

Methods

We used cryopreserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected from 1860 Cardiovascular Health Study participants (average age 80.2 years) and flow cytometry immunophenotyping to evaluate the longitudinal relationships of naive (CD45RA+), memory (CD45RO+), senescent (CD28−), and T effector memory RA+ (TEMRA) (CD28−CD57+CD45RA+) CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and memory B cells (CD19+CD27+), with the risk of incident DM. In exploratory analyses we evaluated the relationships of 13 additional innate lymphocyte and CD4+ and CD8+ subsets with incident DM risk.

Results

Over a median follow‐up time of 8.9 years, 155 cases of incident DM occurred. In Cox models adjusted for demographic variables (age, sex, race, study site and flow cytometry analytical batch) or diabetes risk factors (demographic variables plus education, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol use, systolic blood pressure, hypertension medication use and physical activity), no significant associations were observed for any CD4+, CD8+ or CD19+ cell phenotypes with incident DM.

Conclusions

These results suggest the frequencies of naive, memory and senescent T cells and memory B cells are not strongly associated with incident DM risk in older adults.
In‐line sample trap columns with diatomite for large‐volume injection in CZE–IM–MS
Authors: Hooijschuur Kevin , Liu Xiufen , Grootendorst Anna , Pieterman Ines , Sastre Toraño Javier
Published: November 2022

The analysis of low‐abundant compounds with capillary zone electrophoresis–drift‐tube ion mobility spectrometry–mass spectrometry (CZE–DTIMS–MS) is compromised due to the low injectable sample volumes in CZE and low duty cycle in DTIMS. Fritless packed in‐line trap columns, using solid‐phase extraction sorbent particles, have been used to increase injection volumes in CZE, but these columns are difficult to prepare and exhibit rapidly increasing back pressures. To provide smooth and complete filling of trap columns as well as to ensure higher and sustained flow rates though the columns, blends of cation and anion exchange particles with diatomite were used. The application of diatomite blends ensured the use of trap columns for at least 100 injections, with maximum injection volumes over 10 µl, which corresponds to an enrichment factor of more than 1000 over conventional injections in CZE–MS, enabling the detection of low nM concentrations of N‐glycans with CZE–IMS–MS.
Evaluating vacant middle seats and masks as Coronavirus exposure reduction strategies in aircraft cabins using particle tracer experiments and computational fluid dynamics simulations
Authors: Bennett James S. , Mahmoud Seif , Dietrich Watts , Jones Byron , Hosni Mohammad
Published: November 2022

Aircraft cabins have high‐performance ventilation systems, yet typically hold many persons in close proximity for long durations. The current study estimated airborne virus exposure and infection reductions when middle seats are vacant compared to full occupancy and when passengers wear surgical masks in aircraft. Tracer particle data reported by U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) and CFD simulations reported by Boeing were used along with NIOSH data, to build nonlinear regression models with particle exposure and distance from particle source as variables. These models that estimate exposure at given distances from the viral source were applied to evaluate exposure reductions from vacant middle seats. Reductions averaged 54% for the seat row where an infectious passenger is located and 36% for a 24‐row cabin containing one infectious passenger, with middle seats vacant. Analysis of the TRANSCOM data showed that universal masking (surgical masks) reduced exposures by 62% and showed masking and physical distancing provide further reductions when practiced together. For a notional scenario involving 10 infectious passengers, compared with no intervention, masking, distancing, and both would prevent 6.2, 3.8, and 7.6 secondary infections, respectively, using the Wells–Riley equation. These results suggest distancing alone, masking alone, and these practiced together reduce SARS CoV‐2 exposure risk in increasing order of effectiveness, when an infectious passenger is present.
Use of photogrammetry to determine spruce and OSB char bulk density
Authors: Dupal Ondřej , Hasalová Lucie , Šálek Vojtěch , Hejtmánek Petr , Jahoda Milan
Published: November 2022

This paper deals with the bulk density determination of char, which is an important input parameter for numerical simulations of pyrolysis. The aim was to develop a time and cost‐effective, non‐destructive, and repeatable method capable to determine the bulk density of highly porous, fragile wood and engineered wood samples of various shapes, namely char of spruce and oriented strand board. Char samples were prepared in a cone calorimeter under various heat flux exposures. Photogrammetry was chosen for this purpose. A detailed photogrammetric measurement procedure consisting of sample preparation, sample measurement and software reconstruction was designed and validated. It was found that the bulk density of char depends on the virgin material and the way char was formed. The spruce and oriented strand board char bulk density value is provided to be used in pyrolysis modeling and compared to literature.
Rhizosphere soil nitrification ability controls nitrogen‐use efficiency in rice growth period
Authors: Zhang Haipeng , Liao Fuxing , Li Wanyi , Li Yunlong , Yang Shuo , Zhang Hongcheng , Yang Yanju , Shan Yuhua
Published: November 2022

Nitrification in the rhizosphere is a crucial process in controlling nitrogen‐use efficiency (NUE) in flooded paddy soils. To understand the relationship between the nitrification ability of the rhizosphere and NUE, pot experiments using 15N tracer technique were conducted to investigate the impacts of the rhizosphere soil net nitrification rate on NUE and denitrification losses at different rice growth stages in two paddy soils, which were sampled from Jurong (JR) and Yancheng (YC) in Jiangsu Province in China. The results showed that the nitrification rate in JR rhizosphere soil was lower than in YC rhizosphere soil at all rice growth stages. The abundance of ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB), ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA), and pH in YC rhizosphere soils were always higher than in JR rhizosphere soils. Rice yield, biomass, NUE, leaf glutamine synthetase (GS) activity, and nitrate reductase (NR) activity were higher in JR soils with low nitrification rates than in YC soils with high nitrification rates (p < 0.05). In contrast, denitrification loss from JR soil (12.69%–23.41%) was lower than that from YC soil (26.83%–40.98%; p < 0.05) for each rice growth stage. The biomass and NUE decreased significantly as the net nitrification rate, the abundance of AOA and AOB of both the JR and YC rhizosphere soils increased (p < 0.05), and the denitrification loss was enhanced as the rhizosphere nitrification rate increased in the JR and YC soils (p < 0.05) during the rice growth period. The rhizosphere‐dominant AOB community Nitrosospira is the key factor affecting the nitrification rate and then decreasing rice NUE. In general, the rhizosphere nitrification rate in paddy soils is a primary factor controlling the rice NUE and denitrification loss.
Novel porous electrode designs for reversible solid oxide hydrogen planar cell through multi‐physics modeling
Authors: Zhou Zhu , Xing Lei , Venkatesan Vijay , Xu Haoran , Chen Wenhua , Xuan Jin
Published: November 2022

A comprehensive multiphysics 3D model of an anode‐supported planar reversible solid oxide cell (rSOC) with a half‐channel‐unit‐cell geometry is created and validated. The physical phenomena that are modeled include reversible electrochemistry/charge transport, coupled with momentum/mass/heat transport. Several electrode microstructures comprising the homogeneous and functionally graded porosity distributions are applied to the validated model, to evaluate and compare the current‐voltage (j‐V) performance in both fuel cell mode and electrolysis mode. The results indicate that increasing the porosity in a homogeneous porous electrode does not always promote the cell's j‐V performance. An optimal porosity emerges where the effect of porosity on the mass transport is maximized, which ranges between 0.5 and 0.7 in the working conditions of the present study. Compared with homogeneous porous electrodes, the heterogeneous porous electrode design with a functionally graded porosity distribution is found to be a potential option to better the overall j‐V performance of the rSOC. Furthermore, it is discovered that theoretically grading the porosity in the width direction (i.e., increasing porosity from the center of each gas channel to the center of each adjacent rib) brings an outsize benefit on the cell's performance, compared to the traditional way of improving the porosity along the cell thickness direction.
Geochemistry of meta‐mafic and meta‐tonalite‐trondhjemite intrusives from Jaintia and Karbi Anglong hills of Shillong Plateau, North East India: Implications on the evolution of the Proterozoic Shillong Basin
Authors: Khonglah Medard Augustine , Kumar A. Anil , Haokip Lalboi , Sougrakpam Sujata , Imchen Imlishila
Published: November 2022

We present the whole‐rock and mineral chemical data of the Khasi meta‐mafic/basic‐trondhjemite intrusives (KMI) and meta‐tonalite‐trondhjemite (MTT) that coevally emplaced the Proterozoic Shillong Group (SG) of Shillong Plateau, northeast (NE) India and discuss their petrogenetic‐tectonic origin. The calc‐alkaline to tholeiite KMI are compositionally transitional between hornblende‐gabbro; hornblende‐diorite and minor‐hornblendite. They show Ta–Nb troughs and strong decoupling large‐ion lithophile/high field strength elements (HFSE) signature consistent with subduction zone‐related basic magmas. The calcic to calc‐alkaline, low‐Al2O3, and I‐type metaluminous Fe‐hedenbergite‐trondhjemite (KMT) exhibits similar trace and rare earth elements (REE) distribution to the KMI. The MTT on the other hand are depleted in trace elements and REE, and correspond with the I‐type granitoids, and are comparable to Proterozoic to Phanerozoic tonalite‐trondhjemite‐granodiorites. Gentle negative sloping of REE in KMI ([La/Lu]CN = 4.04 to 6.35) with moderate LREE, suggests partial melting or, fractional crystallization from a transitional source between garnet and spinel lherzolite. Although almost a flat pattern ([La/Lu]CN = 3.70 to 4.05) for MTT entails a high degree of partial melting from sources similar to Archaean Mafic Composite or Archaean Tholeiite. Trace elemental modellings ([Sr/Y] vs. Y and [La/Yb]N vs. YbN) for MTT infer low pressure (<15 kbar) and high degree partial melting of >50% in equilibrium with 10% garnet +90% amphibole residue. A relatively flat REE pattern with some elevated HREE of MTT compared to KMI suggests for depleted source. Bimodal plutonism and the prevalence of meta‐dacite‐rhyolite in SG invokes for tonalite‐trondhjemite‐dacite setting of a continental arc or, active continental margin tectonic setting. Emplacement of KMI initiated in a temporary relax‐extensional phase and MTT in a compressional regime. This is possibly caused by an over‐thickened crust later subjected to orogenic collapse, exhumation‐metamorphism, and decompressional melting. This event might have taken place between 1.0 to 0.5 Ga during the Pan‐African Orogenic crustal growth, linked to the amalgamation of Gondwana.
Common and unique dysconnectivity profiles of dorsal and median raphe in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Wang Junling , Sun Junyan , Gao Linlin , Zhang Dongling , Chen Lili , Wu Tao
Published: November 2022

The serotonergic (5‐HT) system, which undergoes degeneration in Parkinson's disease (PD), is involved in the pathogenesis of motor and nonmotor symptoms. The dorsal raphe (DR) and median raphe (MR) nuclei are the main source of 5‐HT neurons, however, brain connectivity changes in these two nuclei have not been delineated in PD. Here we used resting‐state fMRI (rs‐fMRI) to characterize functional connectivity profiles of DR and MR and further examine the associations between dysconnectivity of raphe nuclei and clinical phenotypes of PD. We found that DR and MR commonly hypo‐connected with the sensorimotor, temporal, and occipital cortex, limbic system, left thalamus, putamen, and cerebellum in PD. DR had unique decreased connectivity with the bilateral prefrontal and cingulate cortices, while MR had lower connectivity with the pons. Moreover, reduced connectivity of DR correlated with depression, drowsiness, and anxiety, whereas dysconnectivity of MR correlated with depression, cognitive deficits, sleep disturbances, and pain. Our findings highlight the complex roles of raphe nuclei in motor and nonmotor symptoms, providing novel insights into the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying pathogenesis of PD.
Ruptured cystic endometriosis within degenerated leiomyoma mimicking intra‐abdominal malignancy: An unusual case report
Authors: Hsieh Ping‐Lin , Li Yao‐Feng , Chang Fung‐Wei , Yu Mu‐Hsien , Ke Jyun‐Cheng , Su Kuo‐Min
Published: November 2022

Synopsis

An unusual case of ruptured cystic endometriosis within degenerated leiomyoma showing surged serum CA‐125 together with CA‐199 levels mimicking intra‐abdominal malignancy.
Obesity in pregnancy in a resource‐constrained setting: Complications and cost implications — a retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ngatiane Logic S. , Naidoo Thinagrin D.
Published: November 2022

Objective

To investigate the complications and costs associated with managing obese pregnant women in a resource‐constrained environment.

Methods

The files were randomly sampled for women that delivered at the tertiary level public sector Greys Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa; of the retrieved files, 206 met the inclusion criteria (January–June 2020). Patients were stratified by body mass index (normal, overweight, obese). The main outcomes being the prevalence of obesity, we conducted a logistic regression to compare the incidence of associated obstetric complications, and a direct costs comparison.

Results

Of the 206 patients, 117 (57%) were obese and at higher risk for fetal and maternal adverse outcomes. The obese/overweight group had higher incidence of pre‐pregnancy complications; history of macrosomia and obstetric complications; and increased risk of failed induction, fetal anomalies, unscheduled prenatal care visits, and postpartum hemorrhage. Neonates born to obese/overweight women were at increased need for neonatal unit admission. The mean cost estimates were 49575.3 South African Rand (ZAR) for normal weight, 49310.5 ZAR for overweight, and 54444.2 ZAR for obese women.

Conclusion

The high levels of obesity were associated with feto‐maternal complications; the association increased healthcare use, resulting in a substantial increase in direct cost to the healthcare system.
Delayed‐interval delivery in twin pregnancies: 12 years' experience in one perinatal center
Authors: Yang Yilin , Mai Zan , Chen Bingjun , He Fang
Published: November 2022

Synopsis

Delayed‐interval delivery of twins potentially improves the survival rate of the second fetus through prolonged pregnancy, and it is essential to formulate standardized management strategies.