bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Should Researchers Measure Perovskite‐Based Monolithic Multijunction Solar Cells’ Performance? A Calibration Lab's Perspective
Authors: Song Tao , Mack Charles , Williams Rafell , Friedman Daniel J. , Kopidakis Nikos
Published: October 2022

Perovskite multijunctions (PVSK MJs) have made remarkable progress with monolithic PVSK/PVSK tandems surpassing the efficiency of single‐junction (1 J) PVSK cells and PVSK/Si cells reported to exceed the 30% efficiency mark. These efficiencies are reported at standard test conditions (STC), established by the photovoltaic (PV) community to facilitate comparison between devices and technologies. Herein, it is discussed why an accurate STC performance measurement for a MJ is more complicated than for a 1 J cell and the special aspects to be considered when measuring the current–voltage characteristics and the performance of PVSK‐containing MJ cells are emphasized. It is discussed why a spectrally adjustable solar simulator is needed and the sequence of accurate performance measurement, namely measurement of the spectral response of each junction, adjustment of the spectrum, and appropriate protocols for measuring the power output of the device at STC, is presented. For all these, common errors and pitfalls that sometime lead to misleading interpretation of the results are presented, and the methods to evaluate the accuracy of the data when a spectrally adjustable solar simulator is not available are recommended. Finally, first step is taken toward recommending performance measurement approaches when high throughput is required as will eventually be in a production line.
Freestanding Ultrathin Precisely Structured Hierarchical Porous Carbon Blackbody Film for Efficient Solar Interfacial Evaporation
Authors: Liu Fenghua , Gu Yunjiao , Hu Yigu , Wang Zan , Ning Yuesheng , Bradley Robert , Lou Deyuan , Zhao Binyuan , Wu Weiping
Published: October 2022

Solar‐energy‐powered interfacial evaporation is the most meaningful strategy for energy utilization, water desalination, and mineral purification. It can achieve high efficiency, low‐density energy, and sustainable harvest and utilization. However, the microstructure and surface/interface design still lead to a balance between solar–thermal conversion, water conduction, and thermal management, which also determines the efficiency of photothermal interfacial evaporation. Here, a free‐standing, ultrathin carbon film with a tunable nanopore diameter is prepared and used as a blackbody layer for solar photothermal evaporation. By 3D reconstruction methods, the effect of pore structure on interfacial evaporation is systematically studied. Hierarchical porous carbon film with an average pore size of about 300 nm exhibits outstanding photothermal evaporation performance, reaching up to 1.96 kg m−2 h−1 with excellent stability. Ultra‐hydrophobic, optically enhanced absorption graphene array is constructed on the carbon film surface through femtosecond laser nanoprocessing, further increasing the evaporation rate to 2.12 kg m−2 h−1 (1 sun) and 5.55 kg m−2 h−1 (3 suns).
Zn(O,S) Buffer Layer Deposited by High Vapor Transport Deposition for Controlling Band Alignment of Cu2ZnSn(SxSe1−x)4 Thin‐Film Solar Cell Heterojunction
Authors: Delgado-Sanchez Jose-Maria , Lillo-Bravo Isidoro , López-Álvarez Jose Antonio , Pérez-Aparicio Elena
Published: October 2022

The replacement of the CdS buffer layer is desirable for the development of nontoxic and environmentally friendly kesterite thin‐film solar cells. Band alignment is critical to the energy conversion of solar cells and achieving optimum design of the layers requires high control of the process. Herein, the band alignment dependence of the CZTSSe/Zn(O,S) interface using different oxygen concentrations is reported, which results in a high controllability process for the energy levels of the buffer layers, which is desirable to achieve higher solar cell efficiencies. It is also demonstrated that a Zn(O,S) thin‐film layer can be deposited using a novel process: high vapor transport deposition. The main advantages observed are as follows: 1) absorber and buffer layers can be deposited in the same vacuum reactor, thus avoiding atmospheric contamination; 2) no additional etching or annealing process is needed; and 3) the process conditions have accuracy control of gas injection, which allows precise tuning of the oxygen content in the film. Optimal oxygen concentration is determined to avoid spike‐like CBO, achieving a conversion efficiency level of 6.87% for kesterite‐based thin‐film solar cells with a Cd‐free buffer layer.
Efficient and Stable Mesoporous CsSnI3 Perovskite Solar Cells via Imidazolium‐Based Ionic Liquid Additive
Authors: Ban Huaxia , Zhang Zhiguo , Dai Letian , Liu Zhirong , Yu Haixuan , Shen Yan , Zhang Xiao-Li , Zhu Jun , Wang Mingkui
Published: October 2022

Inorganic tin halide perovskite compound with its eco‐friendly property has attracted tremendous attention of researchers in the field of lead‐free perovskite solar cells. However, the trap‐assisted nonradiative recombination caused by deep‐level defects originating from surface undercoordinated Sn2+ cations significantly deteriorates the CsSnI3 device's performance. Herein, adding low concentrations of an ionic liquid 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate (EMIMAc) shows promise in controlling deep‐level defects in CsSnI3 perovskites. Both experimental observation and theoretical simulation reveal that EMIMAc can have strong electrostatic attraction and coordination interaction with the surface undercoordinated Sn2+ through the lone electron pairs of carboxyl functional groups and the donated π electrons from electron‐rich imidazole moieties, leading to a reduced deep‐level defect density and a restrained nonradiative recombination. Consequently, the processed CsSnI3 perovskite solar cells based on a printable fluorine‐doped tin oxide/compact‐TiO2/mesoporous‐TiO2/Al2O3/NiO/carbon framework achieve a power conversion efficiency as high as 8.54%, which is the champion efficiency among all the reported CsSnI3 mesoporous perovskite solar cells up to now. In addition, the unencapsulated devices have shown an impressive long‐term stability with only ≈6% efficiency degradation after over 2000 h aging under nitrogen atmosphere.
Calibrated design model for the compression capacity of angle members – Consideration of welded or bolted joint configurations
Authors: Unterweger Harald , Kettler Markus , Zauchner Paul
Published: October 2022

Due to the commonly eccentric connection on only one angle leg (bolted or welded), additional bending moments are acting on the angle member under compression axial force, leading to a complex load‐carrying behaviour with flexural and/or flexural torsional buckling phenomena. Furthermore, type and size of rotational restraints at the member's ends (provided by the adjacent structure) significantly influence the compression capacity of these members. In this article, a recently developed design model for angle members in compression with welded or bolted end connection is presented. The design model considers the accurate rotational spring stiffness of three common joint types. The presented procedure allows for calculating the internal forces based on elastic second‐order theory for an individual member with eccentricities, equivalent geometric imperfection and rotational spring stiffness at both ends. The detailed analytical equations for the rotational spring stiffness of all studied joint configurations are summed up. In addition, calibration factors fDi are presented, to get accurate compression capacities with the design model. Finally, the accuracy of the design model for all three studied joint types of angle members with welded connections is shown through comparison with sophisticated finite element calculations, code provisions (EN 1993‐1‐1, AISC) and experimental tests from the literature.
Numerical collapse simulation based critical state analysis for framed‐wall structure subjected to earthquakes
Authors: Ibrahim Ali R. , Makhloof Doaa A. , Ren Xiaodan
Published: October 2022

With the rapid developments of the constitutive theory, numerical methods, and computer software and hardware, full attention has been paid to establishing nonlinear structural models and investigating the nonlinear behavior, damage performance, and failure criterion of the structures. Consequently, this study introduces a precise analysis with a highly accurate level of simulation for an existing framed‐wall structure excited with strong ground motions. The incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) technique has been adopted to investigate the nonlinear behavior of the structure. The damage evolution and collapse pattern have been well captured in the structure based on the adopted damage model. The results showed that the maximum interstory drift (ISD) position varies at different seismic loads due to the damage initiation and propagation variation. The IDA curves show the end of the elastic stage at 0.70, 0.50, 0.70, and 0.20 g at San Francisco, Italy, Northridge, and San Fernando ground motions, respectively. Also, different collapse patterns of the structure have been observed at different ground motions and also at different intensities for the same ground motion. Therefore, the high‐rise building design should account for multiple collapse patterns. Moreover, a new IDA‐based technique is proposed to estimate the structure's maximum seismic capacity (MSC) and ensure it through the collapse analysis. The structure adopted in this study reaches its MSC at the San Francisco event at an intensity of 2.50 g. However, the MSC decreased by 40% at Italy and Northridge events and 60% at the San Fernando event. Since the seismic capacity of the structure is considered an essential ingredient in the design process, therefore, the findings of this study are supposed to lay the basis for the performance‐based seismic design of the structure.
Students' engagement with Socioscientific issues: Use of sources of knowledge and attitudes
Authors: Klaver Lida T. , Walma van der Molen Juliette H. , Sins Patrick H. M. , Guérin Laurence J. F.
Published: October 2022

The current study is about students' engagement with socioscientific issues (SSI). We explored the use of sources of knowledge about SSI and attitudes toward SSI among a sample of 1676 Dutch 8‐ to 16‐year‐old students. First, we developed a questionnaire that measured students' use of four sources of knowledge about SSI: Social Resources (online media use and talking with parents and friends), In‐Class Resources (in‐class talk and in‐class offline media use), Visit Resources (visiting the zoo or a science museum with parents or school), and Offline Media Resources (engaging with issues or the news via books, magazines, newspapers, or TV). Second, we performed a latent profile analysis to explore students' patterns of use of these sources. This resulted in five profiles: Social Visitors (5.9%), Offline Media Consumers (10.6%), Media Discussers (14.3%), In‐Class Users (21.0%), and Non‐Users (48.3%). Third, we related these profiles to students' attitudes toward SSI, as measured with the Pupils' Attitudes toward Socioscientific Issues (PASSI) questionnaire. In line with the sources of knowledge profiles, the Non‐Users felt and thought most negatively about engagement with SSI, while the Media Discussers showed the most positive attitudes. We believe that our exploration of the profiles adds to the discourse about students' socioscientific capital. Moreover, this study informs teachers about the resources that students may bring into the learning environment and their decision‐making about SSI. The study concludes with practical suggestions about stimulating the use of sources of knowledge for certain groups of students and fostering positive attitudes toward engagement with SSI.
PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway mediated‐cell cycle dysregulation contribute to malignant proliferation of mouse spermatogonia induced by microcystin‐leucine arginine
Authors: Du Xingde , Liu Haohao , Tian Zhihui , Zhang Shiyu , Shi Linjia , Wang Yongshui , Guo Xing , Zhang Bingyu , Yuan Shumeng , Zeng Xin , Zhang Huizhen
Published: October 2022

Environmental cyanotoxin exposure may be a trigger of testicular cancer. Activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway is the critical molecular event in testicular carcinogenesis. As a widespread cyanotoxin, microcystin‐leucine arginine (MC‐LR) is known to induce cell malignant transformation and tumorigenesis. However, the effects of MC‐LR on the regulatory mechanism of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in seminoma, the most common testicular tumor, are unknown. In this study, mouse spermatogonia cell line (GC‐1) and nude mice were used to investigate the effects and mechanisms of MC‐LR on the malignant transformation of spermatogonia by nude mouse tumorigenesis assay, cell migration invasion assay, western blot, and cell cycle assay, and so forth. The results showed that, after continuous exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of MC‐LR (20 nM) for 35 generations, the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of GC‐1 cells were increased by 120%, 340%, and 370%, respectively. In nude mice, MC‐LR‐treated GC‐1 cells formed tumors with significantly greater volume (0.998 ± 0.768 cm3) and weight (0.637 ± 0.406 g) than the control group (0.067 ± 0.039 cm3; 0.094 ± 0.087 g) (P < .05). Furthermore, PI3K inhibitor Wortmannin inhibited the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and its downstream proteins (c‐MYC, CDK4, CCND1, and MMP14) activated by MC‐LR. Blocking PI3K alleviated MC‐LR‐induced cell cycle disorder and malignant proliferation, migration and invasive of GC‐1 cells. Altogether, our findings suggest that MC‐LR can induce malignant transformation of mouse spermatogonia, and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway‐mediated cell cycle dysregulation may be an important target for malignant proliferation. This study provides clues to further reveal the etiology and pathogenesis of seminoma.
Choline alleviated perinatal fluoride exposure‐induced learning and memory impairment through α4β2 nAChRs and α7 nAChRs in offspring mice
Authors: Zhao Yangfei , Zhao Xiaojuan , Wang Jundong
Published: October 2022

Fluoride pollution is widely present in the living environment. As a critical period of brain development, the perinatal period is extremely vulnerable to fluoride. Studies have found that choline can protect the brain's memory and enhance the ability to focus. However, the effect of choline on perinatal fluoride‐induced nerve damage remains unclear. Therefore, 32 Kunming newly conceived female mice and their offspring mice were randomly divided into control, NaF, LC + NaF, and HC + NaF groups, and the HE staining, Y‐maze test, RT‐PCR, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, etc. were used in this study. The results showed that fluoride decreased the brain organ coefficients and brain protein content (p < 0.05, p < 0.01), and caused histomorphological damage in the hippocampus and cortex, which suggested that fluoride affected the development of the brain and damaged the brain. Moreover, the results of the Y‐maze test showed that fluoride increased the number of learning days, error reaction time, and total reaction time, and decreased the AchE activity in the brain (p < 0.05, p < 0.01), which indicated that fluoride reduced the learning and memory ability of the mice. Besides, the results showed that fluoride decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of α4β2 nAChRs and α7 nAChRs in the hippocampus and cortex (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). However, perinatal choline supplementation reversed the aforementioned fluoride‐induced changes. In short, these results demonstrated that choline alleviated perinatal fluoride‐induced learning and memory impairment, which will provide a rationale for the mitigation and prevention of fluoride‐induced brain damage.
Population shifts in some faeces and rumen bacteria profiles and subsequent blood LPS and lactate concentrations in lambs in the early period of subacute ruminal acidosis
Authors: Nikvand Ali Abbas , Nouri Mohammad , Gharibi Darioush , Rakhshandeh Rahman
Published: October 2022

Background

It is known that ruminal acidosis can induce harmal population shifts in some ruminal bacteria profiles. However, there is little information related to alterations in faecal and ruminal bacterial communities and relevant serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in sheep with subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA).

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate alterations in the defined faecal and ruminal bacteria profiles and serum LPS and blood lactate concentrations in lambs with empirically induced SARA.

Methods

Fifteen lambs were served and undergone to induce SARA during a 7‐day period. Faecal and ruminal samples were taken to measure the pH and to perform the bacteriological works at 0 (just before induction), 8, 9, and 10 days of the challenge. Blood samples were collected to determine the serum LPS and lactate levels. The rumen and faecal samples were cultured to specify colony‐forming units (CFU) for Escherichia coli, Streptococcus Group D (SGD), and lactic acid bacteria (LAB).

Results

Serum LPS value had no significant increase in the affected lambs with SARA. Significant increasing trends were observed in faecal E. coli and LAB populations (p < 0.01). Rumen bacteriology revealed a rising trend for LAB and a falling trend for SGD populations (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

: Unlike cattle, LPS appears to be of minor importance in the pathogenesis of SARA in sheep. The increased ruminal and faecal LAB (4.00 × 107 CFU/ml or g) are proposed as valuable biomarkers for improving nutritional strategy and screening SARA in lambs.
Effects of decabromodiphenyl ethane flame retardant on the combustion behavior and physical‐mechanical properties of chloroprene rubber: Experimental and molecular dynamic simulation
Authors: Han Xiaokun , Li Jianxing , Lu Tianyun , Liu Ruiyin , Yan Zepei , Wang He
Published: October 2022

Herein, a molecular dynamics simulation method was used to predict the compatibility of chloroprene rubber (CR) and decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) and to investigate the mechanical properties of CR‐based composites. The limiting oxygen index and cone calorimeter measurement values indicated that the addition of DBDPE was beneficial for reducing the peak heat release rate during combustion and facilitating the formation of compact and strong char layers for carbon black‐filled CR composites, resulting in efficient reduction of flammability and fire risk. Incorporation of DBDPE obviously delayed the dehydrochlorination of the CR matrix. Moreover, adding 50 phr DBDPE had little effect on the tensile strength and elongation at the break, and increased the modulus at 100% elongation by 64.3% in contrast to CR without DBDPE. However, the cold properties of CR vulcanizates decreased slightly with an increase in the DBDPE content.
Advances in design of polymer brush functionalized inorganic nanomaterials and their applications in biomedical arena
Authors: Dutta Soumyadip , Shreyash Nehil , Satapathy Bhabani Kumar , Saha Sampa
Published: October 2022

Grafting of polymer brush (assembly of polymer chains tethered to the substrate by one end) is emerging as one of the most viable approach to alter the surface of inorganic nanomaterials. Inorganic nanomaterials despite their intrinsic functional superiority, their applications remain restricted due to their incompatibility with organic or biological moieties vis‐à‐vis agglomeration issues. To overcome such a shortcoming, polymer brush modified surfaces of inorganic nanomaterials have lately proved to be of immense potential. For example, polymer brush‐modified inorganic nanomaterials can act as efficient substrates/platforms in biomedical applications, ranging from drug‐delivery to protein‐array due to their integrated advantages such as amphiphilicity, stimuli responsiveness, enhanced biocompatibility, and so on. In this review, the current state of the art related to polymer brush‐modified inorganic nanomaterials focusing, not only, on their synthetic strategies and applications in biomedical field but also the architectural influence of polymer brushes on the responsiveness properties of modified nanomaterials have comprehensively been discussed and its associated future perspective is also presented.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Emerging Technologies

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology
Near‐infrared absorbing semiconducting polymer nanomedicines for cancer therapy
Authors: Li Meng , Zhao Ming , Li Jingchao
Published: October 2022

As a new type of organic optical nanomaterials, semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (SPNs) have the advantages of good optical characteristics and photostability, low toxicity concerns, and relatively simple preparation processes. Particularly, near‐infrared (NIR) absorbing SPNs have shown a great promise in biomedicine. In addition to acting as nanoprobes for molecular imaging, these SPNs can produce local heat and reactive oxygen species with the stimulation of NIR light, allowing photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT), respectively. Herein, we summarize the recent development of SPN‐based nanomedicines for cancer therapy. The rational designs of SPNs for enhanced PTT, PDT, or combinational PTT/PDT to achieve effective ablation of tumor tissues are highlighted. Via loading/conjugating SPNs with other therapeutic elements (such as chemotherapeutic drugs and immunotherapeutic agents), phototherapy‐combined chemotherapy or immunotherapy can be realized, which is then discussed. In especial, the constructions of SPN‐based nanomedicines for NIR photoactivatable chemotherapy and immunotherapy are introduced with representative examples. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and key concerns of SPNs for their biomedical applications and give an outlook for their future clinical translation.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
Cytotoxicity of quercetin is related to mitochondrial respiration impairment in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Carrillo‐Garmendia Andres , Martinez‐Ortiz Cecilia , Canizal‐Garcia Melina , González‐Hernández Juan Carlos , Arvizu‐Medrano Sofia Maria , Gracida Jorge , Madrigal‐Perez Luis Alberto , Regalado‐Gonzalez Carlos
Published: October 2022

Quercetin is a flavonol ubiquitously present in fruits and vegetables that shows a potential therapeutic use in non‐transmissible chronic diseases, such as cancer and diabetes. Although this phytochemical has shown promising health benefits, the molecular mechanism behind this compound is still unclear. Interestingly, quercetin displays toxic properties against phylogenetically distant organisms such as bacteria and eukaryotic cells, suggesting that its molecular target resides on a highly conserved pathway. The cytotoxicity of quercetin could be explained by energy depletion occasioned by mitochondrial respiration impairment and its concomitant pleiotropic effect. Thereby, the molecular basis of quercetin cytotoxicity could shed light on potential molecular mechanisms associated with its health benefits. Nonetheless, the evidence supporting this hypothesis is still lacking. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate whether quercetin supplementation affects mitochondrial respiration and whether this is related to quercetin cytotoxicity. Saccharomyces cerevisiae was used as a study model to assess the effect of quercetin on energetic metabolism. Herein, we provide evidence that quercetin supplementation: (1) decreased the exponential growth of S. cerevisiae in a glucose‐dependent manner; (2) affected diauxic growth in a similar way to antimycin A (complex III inhibitor of electron transport chain); (3) suppressed the growth of S. cerevisiae cultures supplemented with non‐fermentable carbon sources (glycerol and lactate); (4) promoted a glucose‐dependent inhibition of the basal, maximal, and ATP‐linked respiration; (5) diminished complex II and IV activities. Altogether, these data indicate that quercetin disturbs mitochondrial respiration between the ubiquinone pool and cytochrome c, and this phenotype is associated with its cytotoxic properties.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Calcium‐Pyrazolonato Complex. Observation of In‐Situ Desolvation During Micro‐Electron Diffraction
Authors: Mies Thomas , Schürmann Christian , Ito Sho , White Andrew J. P. , Crimmin Mark R. , Barrett Anthony G. M.
Published: October 2022

The synthesis and characterization of a calcium pyrazolonato complex is reported. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) of single crystals revealed an octahedral geometry with two axial solvent ligands. Analysis of the bulk sample by means of microcrystal electron diffraction (micro‐ED) measurement revealed a polymeric pentagonal bipyramidal coordination geometry joined via a central Ca2O2 ring with axial water ligands. During the micro‐ED measurement, loss of water was observed resulting in a secondary structure with a polymeric distorted octahedral coordination geometry joined via a central Ca2O2 ring. These findings demonstrate that XRD and micro‐ED methods can provide complementary data during structural determination, and that even electrophilic metals are susceptible to desolvation under micro‐ED measurements.
Creating a Digital Marketplace for Agrobiodiversity and Plant Genetic Sequence Data: Legal and Ethical Considerations of an AI and Blockchain Based Solution
Authors: Kochupillai Mrinalini , Köninger Julia
Published: October 2022

The EU regulation on ‘Organic Production and Labelling of Organic Products’ opens the door for the creation of an EU-wide marketplace for agrobiodiversity contained in so-called “heterogeneous materials”. However, the creation of such a marketplace presupposes the existence of optimal demand and supply of agrobiodiversity, linked plant genetic sequence data and local/traditional knowledge on how best to use agrobiodiversity. Farmers’ tendency to prefer genetically uniform “high yielding” seeds and the adoption of chemical intensive farming have compromised the supply of agrobiodiversity. At the same time, regulatory regimes have disincentivized the use of agrobiodiversity in research and breeding programs, resulting in a lack of demand for agrobiodiversity. This chapter argues that these trends result from (inadvertent) inequities in existing regulatory frameworks that primarily support uni-directional data/knowledge flows from the formal sector (academia, industry) to the informal sector (farmers). We propose ways in which rapidly evolving technologies like blockchain/DLTs and AI/Machine Learning can (and should) diversify the direction of scientific research as well as of data/knowledge flows in the agricultural sector. The chapter thus provides food for thought for developing novel regulatory frameworks and ethical business models for robust digital marketplaces for agrobiodiversity for the benefit of farmers, researchers, and the environment.
Ethical and Legal Considerations in Smart Farming: A Farmer’s Perspective
Authors: Zampati Foteini
Published: October 2022

Smart farming contributes to exponential income growth, enhanced decision making, better services and products, as well as productivity and profitability. Nowadays, numerous agricultural technology providers are entering the market, focusing on aggregating farmers’ data. But many farmers, especially smallholders, do not benefit from the sharing and exchange of this data, which leaves them feeling disempowered. Until today, ethical considerations were often side-lined because gathering more data was seen as necessary, and concerns about how data might be abused or misused were only subsequently considered. However, with the increase of big data in smart farming, it is more essential than ever to focus on the ethical aspects of data governance (access, control, consent) and practices. Therefore, these ethical questions will provide valuable insights into how data is being collected and used, for what purposes, how to bridge the digital divide, and how to create transparency and build trust between stakeholders. This chapter will focus on farmers’ perspectives and how they could actively participate in a more equitable data sharing and exchange in the agri-food value chain by contributing to the design of a fairer data governance framework. The adoption of agricultural codes of conduct is the example that will be explored.
Cultivating Responsible Plant Breeding Strategies: Conceptual and Normative Commitments in Data-Intensive Agriculture
Authors: Williamson Hugh F. , Leonelli Sabina
Published: October 2022

This chapter argues for the importance of considering conceptual and normative commitments when addressing questions of responsible practice in data-intensive agricultural research and development. We consider genetic gain-focused plant breeding strategies that envision a data-intensive mode of breeding in which genomic, environmental and socio-economic data are mobilised for rapid crop variety development. Focusing on socio-economic data linkage, we examine methods of product profiling and how they accommodate gendered dimensions of breeding in the field. Through a comparison with participatory breeding methods, we argue that the conceptual commitments underpinning current methods of integrating socioeconomic data into calculations of genetic gain can preclude the achievement of key social development goals, and that better engagement with participatory approaches can help address this problem. We conclude by identifying three key avenues towards a data-intensive approach to plant breeding that utilises the diverse sources of relevant evidence available, including socio-economic data, and maximises the chance of developing sustainable and responsible strategies and research practices in this domain: (1) reliable, long-term management of data infrastructures; (2) ongoing critical analysis of the conceptual foundations of specific strategies; and (3) regular transdisciplinary consultations including expertise in the social studies of agricultural science as well as participatory breeding techniques.
Theory-Ladenness as a Problem for Plant Data Linkage
Authors: Radick Gregory
Published: October 2022

This paper draws upon the history of scientific studies of inheritance in Mendel’s best-remembered model organism, the garden pea, as a source of two parables – one pessimistic, the other optimistic – on the challenges of data linkage in plants. The moral of the pessimistic parable, from the era of the biometrician-Mendelian controversy, is that the problem of theory-ladenness in data sets can be a major stumbling block to making new uses of old data. The moral of the optimistic parable, from the long-run history of studies at the John Innes Centre of aberrant or “rogue” pea varieties, is that an excellent guarantor of the continued value of old data sets is the availability of the relevant physical materials – in the first instance, the plant seeds.
Managing Data in Breeding, Selection and in Practice: A Hundred Year Problem That Requires a Rapid Solution
Authors: Harrison Richard J. , Caccamo Mario
Published: October 2022

Following the rediscovery of Mendelian genetics, food supply pressures and the rapid expansion of crop varieties with defined performance characteristics, international systems were set up throughout the 20 C to regulate the trade of seed, the protection of intellectual property and the sale of productive varieties of key agricultural crops. These systems are a highly connected but largely linear set of processes. System changes are slow to be adopted due to the cascade of effects that structural alteration would have globally. Multi-omic technologies and the subsequent proliferation of data types used within modern breeding, offer the possibility to gain deeper insights into the performance characteristics of varieties. Current integration of data, standards and ownership structures limit their applications for wider purposes, both private and public. We explore how data within and between breeding programmes and the varietal approval and monitoring processes could be made FAIR. We examine what role expanded or aligned programmes of data collection and expanded trait evaluation at the point of varietal registration and evaluation, as well as on farm could have in ensuring the best linkage of public and private data to address some of the challenges society faces over the next 30 years with the required, rapid transition to sustainable agricultural systems.
Figuring Accompaniment: The Creation of Urban Spaciousness
Authors: Simone AbdouMaliq
Published: October 2022

Figuring is posited as always accompaniment; something that does not discernibly alter the visual and sensual dimensions of an entity, that remains apparently aloof from its configuration, but which nevertheless prompts a reorientation of engagement; which at least raises a degree of uncertainty about what it is we are confronting in an appearance that otherwise has all the hallmarks of an integrity and coherence. Mobilizing various strands of critical Black thought, the focus here is on the urban, and how there is always something only partially used, something that remains just out of reach, or is deemed irrelevant that accompanies all that is standard operating procedure, all that are demarcated and zoned spatial arrangements. Accompaniment is a submergent infrastructure that suggests something else than what is recognized.
The Work That Figures Do
Authors: Dawney Leila
Published: October 2022

This chapter sets out a conceptual agenda for exploring the work that figures do in contemporary cultural politics. It pays attention to how figures operate as affective technologies of power by tapping into public feelings and their potential to organise alternative forms of life. It brings three writers: Donna Haraway, Erich Auerbach and Michel Foucault, whose work engages with the politics of figures and figuration, into dialogue to provide a conceptual outline for thinking about the work that figures do. This chapter further argues that adopting a critical and creative practice in relation to figures reveals their cultural and affective power in sculpting worlds: how they lure us towards particular political architectures and provide substance for alternative ways of being and relating.
The Research Persona Method: Figuring and Reconfiguring Personalised Information Flows
Authors: Bounegru Liliana , Devries Melody , Weltevrede Esther
Published: October 2022

This chapter explores the prospects of assembling “research personas” as a qualitative method that uses the positionality of the researcher situated amidst algorithmically suggested content for studying how digital personalisation is produced, encountered and experienced. Building on past and ongoing digital methods projects concerning the networked flow of misinformation, disinformation and authenticity, the research persona method looks not onlyinsidebut alsoacrossalgorithms and digital methods approaches that repurpose the methods of the medium. As an immersive method that is both a product and mode of studying “figuration”, configuring research personas can show how personalisation is produced and accomplished by the interplay of various actors, devices, interfaces, infrastructures, user practices and data flows.
Data Through Time: Figuring Out the Narrative Self in Longitudinal Research
Authors: Elliott Jane
Published: October 2022

This chapter explores the ways in which individuals have figured within longitudinal research in the social sciences. It raises questions about the implications of the self-tracking movement, and ‘personal informatics’, for future research practices. This chapter discusses the importance of focusing on what can be considered as ‘figure’ and ‘ground’ in research and in representations of individuals’ lives. There is a focus on understanding figure and ground in temporal terms—contrasting the events and experiences that structure personal life narratives with the routines of daily life which are often almost unnoticed. This chapter draws on exemplars from Britain’s portfolio of national longitudinal studies of individuals’ lives and highlights an emerging set of methods focused on reconstructing individual cases within quantitative longitudinal research.
A fragmentation approach to jet flavor
Authors: Caletti Simone , Larkoski Andrew J. , Marzani Simone , Reichelt Daniel
Published: October 2022

Abstract

An intuitive definition of the partonic flavor of a jet in quantum chromodynamics is often only well-defined in the deep ultraviolet, where the strong force becomes a free theory and a jet consists of a single parton. However, measurements are performed in the infrared, where a jet consists of numerous particles and requires an algorithmic procedure to define their phase space boundaries. To connect these two regimes, we introduce a novel and simple partonic jet flavor definition in the infrared. We define the jet flavor to be the net flavor of the partons that lie exactly along the direction of the Winner-Take-All recombination scheme axis of the jet, which is safe to all orders under emissions of soft particles, but is not collinear safe. Collinear divergences can be absorbed into a perturbative fragmentation function that describes the evolution of the jet flavor from the ultraviolet to the infrared. The evolution equations are linear and a small modification to traditional DGLAP and we solve them to leading-logarithmic accuracy. The evolution equations exhibit fixed points in the deep infrared, we demonstrate quantitative agreement with parton shower simulations, and we present various infrared and collinear safe observables that are sensitive to this flavor definition.
The axion-photon mixing in non-linear electrodynamic scenarios
Authors: Paixão J. M. A. , Ospedal L. P. R. , Neves M. J. , Helayël-Neto J. A.
Published: October 2022

Abstract

In this contribution, we re-assess some aspects of axionic electrodynamics by coupling non-linear electromagnetic effects to axion physics. We present a number of motivations to justify the coupling of the axion to the photon in terms of a general non-linear extension of the electromagnetic sector. Our emphasis in the paper relies on the investigation of the constitutive permittivity and permeability tensors, for which the axion contributes by introducing dependence on the frequency and wave vector of the propagating radiation. Also, we point out how the axion mass and the axion-photon-photon coupling constant contribute to a dispersive behavior of the electromagnetic waves, in contrast to what happens in the case of non-linear extensions, when effective refractive indices appear which depend only on the direction of the propagation with respect to the external fields. The axion changes this picture by yielding refractive indices with dependence on the wavelength. We apply our results to the special case of the (non-birefringent) Born-Infeld Electrodynamics and we show that it becomes birefringent whenever the axion is coupled. The paper is supplemented by an appendix, where we follow our own path to approach the recent discussion on a controversy in the definition of the Poynting vector of axionic electrodynamics.
Gallium Anomaly: critical view from the global picture of νe and $$ {\overline{\nu}}_e $$ disappearance
Authors: Giunti C. , Li Y. F. , Ternes C. A. , Tyagi O. , Xin Z.
Published: October 2022

Abstract

The significance of the Gallium Anomaly, from the BEST, GALLEX, and SAGE radioactive source experiments, is quantified using different theoretical calculations of the neutrino detection cross section, and its explanation due to neutrino oscillations is compared with the bounds from the analyses of reactor rate and spectral ratio data, β-decay data, and solar neutrino data. In the 3+1 active-sterile neutrino mixing scheme, the Gallium Anomaly is in strong tension with the individual and combined bounds of these data sets. In the combined scenario with all available data, the parameter goodness of fit is below 0.042%, corresponding to a severe tension of 4–5σ, or stronger. Therefore, we conclude that one should pursue other possible solutions beyond short-baseline oscillations for the Gallium Anomaly. We also present a new global fit of νe and $$ {\overline{\nu}}_e $$

ν
¯

e

disappearance data, showing that there is a 2.6–3.3σ preference in favor of short-baseline oscillations, which is driven by an updated analysis of reactor spectral ratio data.
Apigenin attenuates LPS-induced neurotoxicity and cognitive impairment in mice via promoting mitochondrial fusion/mitophagy: role of SIRT3/PINK1/Parkin pathway
Authors: Ahmedy Omaima A. , Abdelghany Tarek M. , El-Shamarka Marwa E. A. , Khattab Mohamed A. , El-Tanbouly Dalia M.
Published: October 2022

Rationale

Alteration of the NAD+ metabolic pathway is proposed to be implicated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neurotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases. Apigenin, a naturally-occurring flavonoid, has been reported to maintain NAD+ levels and to preserve various metabolic functions.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the effect of apigenin on mitochondrial SIRT3 activity as a mediator through which it could modulate mitochondrial quality control and to protect against intracerebrovascular ICV/LPS-induced neurotoxicity.

Methods

Mice received apigenin (40 mg/kg; p.o) for 7 consecutive days. One hour after the last dose, LPS (12 µg/kg, icv) was administered.

Results

Apigenin robustly guarded against neuronal degenerative changes and maintained a normal count of intact neurons in mice hippocampi. Consequently, it inhibited the deleterious effect of LPS on cognitive functions. Apigenin was effective in preserving the NAD+/NADH ratio to boost mitochondrial sirtuin-3 (SIRT3), activity, and ATP production. It conserved normal mitochondrial features via induction of the master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), along with mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) and the fusion proteins, mitofusin 2 (MFN2), and optic atrophy-1 (OPA1). Furthermore, it increased phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1) and parkin expression as well as the microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 II/I ratio (LC3II/I) to induce degradation of unhealthy mitochondria via mitophagy.

Conclusions

These observations reveal the marked neuroprotective potential of apigenin against LPS-induced neurotoxicity through inhibition of NAD+ depletion and activation of SIRT3 to maintain adequate mitochondrial homeostasis and function.

Graphical abstract
The augmented base locus in mixed characteristic
Authors: Stigant Liam
Published: October 2022

Let L be a nef and big line bundle on a scheme X. It is well known that if X is a projective over a field then the augmented base locus and the exceptional base locus agree. This result is extended to projective schemes over arbitrary excellent Noetherian bases, assuming the result holds in characteristic zero. In particular the result holds if the base is a mixed characteristic Dedekind domain or if L is semiample in characteristic 0.
Optical absorption of conduction electrons in semiconductor nanowires in the presence of the electron–phonon interaction
Authors: Zorik Anas , Farhoud Maher , Sakr Mohammed R.
Published: October 2022

We calculate the energy states and the optical absorption coefficient for electrons in a nanowire in the presence of the Rashba and the longitudinal-optical phonon interactions. The interplay of those interactions results in a splitting in the electron dispersion relation at zero wavevector that grows linearly for the ground state as the strength of the lateral quantum confinement increases. For higher states, the energy splitting increases more rapidly till the state of resonant polaron is reached, then it increases slowly due to the pinning effect. The frequency separation between the well-resolved absorption peaks and their number are greatly influenced by the state of the polarons.
Learning curve and functional outcomes after laser enucleation of the prostate for benign prostate hyperplasia according to surgeon’s caseload
Authors: Kosiba M. , Hoeh B. , Welte M. N. , Krimphove M. J. , Vitucci K. , Lindemann N. , Schröder J. , Jost L. , Schmidt F. E. , von Hollen A. , Kluth L. A. , Mandel P. , Roos F. C. , Chun F. K. H. , Becker A.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of surgical caseload on safety, efficacy, and functional outcomes of laser enucleation of the prostate (LEP) applying a structured mentoring program.

Methods

Patient characteristics, perioperative data, and functional outcomes were analyzed descriptively. Linear and logistic regression models analyzed the effect of caseload on complications, functional outcomes and operative speed. Within the structured mentoring program a senior surgeon was present for the first 24 procedures completely, for partial steps in procedures 25–49, and as needed thereafter.

Results

A total of 677 patients from our prospective institutional database (2017–2022) were included for analysis. Of these, 84 (12%), 75 (11%), 82 (12%), 106 (16%), and 330 patients (49%) were operated by surgeons at (A) < 25, (B) 25–49, (C) 50–99, (D) 100–199, and (E) ≥ 200 procedures. Preoperative characteristics were balanced (all p > 0.05) except for prostate volume, which increased with caseload.

There was no significant difference in change of IPSS, Quality of life, ICIQ, pad usage, peak urine flow, residual urine, and major complications (Group A: 8.3 to E: 7.6%, p = 0.2) depending on the caseload. Caseload was not associated (Odds ratio: 0.7–1.4, p > 0.2) with major complications in the multivariable logistic regression model. Only operating time was significantly shorter with increasing caseload in the multivariable analysis (111–55 min, beta 23.9–62.9, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

With a structured mentoring program, the safety and efficacy of LEP can be ensured even during the learning curve with very good outcome quality. Only the operating time decreases significantly with increasing experience of the surgeon.
Occurrence and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonising off-season and in-season weeds and their relationship with maize yield under conservation agriculture
Authors: Mhlanga Blessing , Ercoli Laura , Piazza Gaia , Thierfelder Christian , Pellegrino Elisa
Published: October 2022

Weeds are responsible for major crop losses worldwide but can provide beneficial agroecosystem services. This study aimed to elucidate how arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in weeds respond to host identity and conservation agricultural practices. The study was carried out at two locations in Southern Africa during off-season and in-season maize cultivation. Off-season AMF root colonisation, diversity indices and community composition significantly differed among weed species at both locations. Glomus sp. VTX00280 explains most of the AMF community differences. In-season, implementation of conventional tillage with mulching alone (CT + M) or together with crop rotation (CT + M + R) resulted in a 20% increase in AMF colonisation of the constantly occurring weed species, Bidens pilosa (BIDPI) and Richardia scabra (RCHSC), compared with conventional tillage plus rotations (CT + R). The diversity of AMF was highest under no-tillage plus mulching (NT + M). Off-season and in-season AMF structures of both BIDPI and RCHSC were not related, but 39% of the taxa were shared. Structural equation modelling showed a significant effect of the cropping system on weed AMF diversity parameters and weed and maize root colonisation, but no significant influence of weed root AMF traits and maize colonisation was detected on maize yield. This may be explained by the improvement in weed competitive ability, which may have offset the AMF-mediated benefits on yield. Our findings highlight that implementing M and CR to CT and NT positively affected weed AMF colonisation and diversity. The similarity between the off-season and in-season AMF composition of weeds supports the fact that weeds functionally host AMF during the non-crop period.