bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ensemble‐based estimates of the impact of potential observations
Authors: Griewank Philipp J. , Weissmann Martin , Necker Tobias , Nomokonova Tatiana , Löhnert Ulrich
Published: April 2023

In order to conduct observation‐network design experiments for a forecast system, methods are needed to estimate the benefit of potential observations. Ideally, these methods are flexible enough to accommodate multiple observation types and forecast lead times while being computationally fast enough to evaluate many potential observational network layouts. For ensemble forecasts, this can be achieved by assuming that analysis and forecast errors are represented by the respective ensemble variance and by assuming a linear ensemble sensitivity between the background state and a forecast quantity of choice. These assumptions enable estimating how much the forecast error of a forecast quantity would be reduced for an arbitrary combination of observation locations and types without the need to run additional forecasts. An aspect that has received little attention is that to apply these variance‐reduction estimates to a specific ensemble‐forecast system consistently, the system's localization needs to be taken into account. We introduce and compare three methods to take localization into account when estimating the benefit of potential observations. One method requires explicitly inverting the background ensemble covariance matrix, one method avoids the inversion but needs to be provided with estimates of signal propagation over time, and the third method requires both the inversion and the signal propagation estimate. We introduce a simple linear‐advection toy model to perform various observing‐system simulation experiments to test the three methods with point and indirect observations. Our results indicate that the methods requiring signal propagation to be provided are best suited to short lead times, whereas the remaining method is more accurate if signal propagation is not known well; for example, for longer lead times.
Reaction mechanism between Gen (n = 2–5) clusters and single water molecule based on density functional theory
Authors: Tang Leilei , Shi Shunping , Song Yong , Duan Zhanjiang , Jiang Jing , Diao Kai , Hu Jiabao , Chen Deliang
Published: April 2023

The ground state structures of Gen (n = 2–5) clusters and their adsorption energy values with single water molecule were calculated using density functional theory. We also investigated the reaction pathways between Gen (n = 2–5) clusters and single water molecule. Based on molecular orbital and natural population analysis (NPA) figures, it was found that the O atom in H2O binds to the Gen (n = 2–5) clusters to form GenO (n = 2–5) and releases hydrogen. Notably, the Ge2 cluster exhibited the most efficient interaction with single water molecule based on the comparison of the energy values during the reaction of hydrogen generation. Furthermore, NPA and density of states analyses indicate that the Ge atoms in the products did not reach their highest oxidation state, suggesting that GenO (n = 2–5) may continue to react with more water molecules to generate hydrogen. Our results provide a deeper understanding of the chemical reaction properties.
3D‐Printed Micro/Nano‐Scaled Mechanical Metamaterials: Fundamentals, Technologies, Progress, Applications, and Challenges
Authors: Su Ruyue , Chen Jingyi , Zhang Xueqin , Wang Wenqing , Li Ying , He Rujie , Fang Daining
Published: April 2023

Micro/nano‐scaled mechanical metamaterials have attracted extensive attention in various fields attributed to their superior properties benefiting from their rationally designed micro/nano‐structures. As one of the most advanced technologies in the 21st century, additive manufacturing (3D printing) opens an easier and faster path for fabricating micro/nano‐scaled mechanical metamaterials with complex structures. Here, the size effect of metamaterials at micro/nano scales is introduced first. Then, the additive manufacturing technologies to fabricate mechanical metamaterials at micro/nano scales are introduced. The latest research progress on micro/nano‐scaled mechanical metamaterials is also reviewed according to the type of materials. In addition, the structural and functional applications of micro/nano‐scaled mechanical metamaterials are further summarized. Finally, the challenges, including advanced 3D printing technologies, novel material development, and innovative structural design, for micro/nano‐scaled mechanical metamaterials are discussed, and future perspectives are provided. The review aims to provide insight into the research and development of 3D‐printed micro/nano‐scaled mechanical metamaterials.
Synergistic Effect of N‐NiMoO4/Ni Heterogeneous Interface with Oxygen Vacancies in N‐NiMoO4/Ni/CNTs for Superior Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Li Guang‐Lan , Qiao Xiang‐Yue , Miao Ying‐Ying , Wang Tian‐Yu , Deng Fei
Published: April 2023

The exploring of economical, high‐efficiency, and stable bifunctional catalysts for hydrogen evolution and oxygen evolution reactions (HER/OER) is highly imperative for the development of electrolytic water. Herein, a 3D cross‐linked carbon nanotube supported oxygen vacancy (Vo)‐rich N‐NiMoO4/Ni heterostructure bifunctional water splitting catalyst (N‐NiMoO4/Ni/CNTs) is synthesized by hydrothermal‐H2 calcination method. Physical characterization confirms that Vo‐rich N‐NiMoO4/Ni nanoparticles with an average size of ≈19 nm are secondary aggregated on CNTs that form a hierarchical porous structure. The formation of Ni and NiMoO4 heterojunctions modify the electronic structure of N‐NiMoO4/Ni/CNTs. Benefiting from these properties, N‐NiMoO4/Ni/CNTs drives an impressive HER overpotential of only 46 mV and OER overpotential of 330 mV at 10 mA cm−2, which also shows exceptional cycling stability, respectively. Furthermore, the as‐assembled N‐NiMoO4/Ni/CNTs||N‐NiMoO4/Ni/CNTs electrolyzer reaches a cell voltage of 1.64 V at 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline solution. Operando Raman analysis reveals that surface reconstruction is essential for the improved catalytic activity. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations further demonstrate that the enhanced HER/OER performance should be attributed to the synergistic effect of Vo and heteostructure that improve the conductivity of N‐NiMoO4/Ni/CNTs and facilitatethe desorption of reaction intermediates.
Highly Stable and Efficient Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalyst Based on Co Oxides Decorated with Ultrafine Ru Nanoclusters
Authors: Du Jian , Chen Dexin , Ding Yunxuan , Wang Linqin , Li Fei , Sun Licheng
Published: April 2023

Exploring highly active and durable electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is significant to achieve efficient anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis. Herein, hollow Co‐based N‐doped porous carbon spheres decorated with ultrafine Ru nanoclusters (HS‐RuCo/NC) are reported as efficient OER electrocatalysts via the pyrolysis of carboxylate‐terminated polystyrene‐templated bimetallic zeolite imidazolate frameworks accommodating Ru (III) ions. The unique hollow structure with hierarchically porous characteristics contributes to the electrolyte penetration for fast mass transport and the exposure of more metal sites. Theoretical and experimental studies reveal the synergistic effect between the in situ formed RuO2 and Co3O4 as another critical factor for the high OER performance, where the coupling of RuO2 with Co3O4 can optimize the electronic configuration of RuO2/Co3O4 heterostructure and decrease the energy barrier during OER. Meanwhile, the presence of Co3O4 can efficiently suppress the over‐oxidation of RuO2, endowing the catalysts with high stability. As expected, when the resultant HS‐RuCo/NC was integrated into an AEM water electrolyzer, the obtained electrolyzer exhibits a cell voltage of 2.07 V to launch the current density of 1 A cm−2 and excellent long‐term stability at 500 mA cm−2 under room temperature in alkaline solution, outperforming the commercial RuO2‐based AEM water electrolyzer (2.19 V).
P and Se Binary Vacancies and Heterostructures Modulated MoP/MoSe2 Electrocatalysts for Improving Hydrogen Evolution and Coupling Electricity Generation
Authors: Yan Wensi , Ma Hui , Zhao Xueting , Zhang You , Vishniakov Paul , Wang Xin , Zhong Xiaohong , Hong Zhe , Maximov Maxim Yu. , Song Li , Peng Shengjie , Li Lei
Published: April 2023

It is not enough to develop an ideal hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts by single strategy. Here, the HER performances are significantly improved by the combined strategies of P and Se binary vacancies and heterostructure engineering, which is rarely explored and remain unclear. As a result, the overpotentials of MoP/MoSe2‐H heterostructures rich in P and Se binary vacancies are 47 and 110 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH and 0.5 m H2SO4 electrolytes, respectively. Especially, in 1 m KOH, the overpotential of MoP/MoSe2‐H is very close to commercial Pt/C at the beginning and even better than Pt/C when current density is over 70 mA cm−2. The strong interactions between MoSe2 and MoP facilitate electrons transfer from P to Se. Thus, MoP/MoSe2‐H possesses more electrochemically active sites and faster charge transfer capability, which are all in favor of high HER activities. Additionally, Zn‐H2O battery with MoP/MoSe2‐H as cathode is fabricated for simultaneous generation of hydrogen and electricity, which displays the maximum power density of up to 28.1 mW cm−2 and stable discharging performance for 125 h. Overall, this work validates a vigorous strategy and provides guidance for the development of efficient HER electrocatalysts.
Tailoring the Angular Mismatch in MoS2 Homobilayers through Deformation Fields
Authors: Burns Kory , Tan Anne Marie Z. , Hachtel Jordan A. , Aditya Anikeya , Baradwaj Nitish , Mishra Ankit , Linker Thomas , Nakano Aiichiro , Kalia Rajiv , Lang Eric J. , Schoell Ryan , Hennig Richard G. , Hattar Khalid , Aitkaliyeva Assel
Published: April 2023

Ultrathin MoS2 has shown remarkable characteristics at the atomic scale with an immutable disorder to weak external stimuli. Ion beam modification unlocks the potential to selectively tune the size, concentration, and morphology of defects produced at the site of impact in 2D materials. Combining experiments, first‐principles calculations, atomistic simulations, and transfer learning, it is shown that irradiation‐induced defects can induce a rotation‐dependent moiré pattern in vertically stacked homobilayers of MoS2 by deforming the atomically thin material and exciting surface acoustic waves (SAWs). Additionally, the direct correlation between stress and lattice disorder by probing the intrinsic defects and atomic environments are demonstrated. The method introduced in this paper sheds light on how engineering defects in the lattice can be used to tailor the angular mismatch in van der Waals (vdW) solids.
How Size and Strain Effect Synergistically Improve Electrocatalytic Activity: A Systematic Investigation Based on PtCoCu Alloy Nanocrystals
Authors: Zhang Wenjing , Li Jing , Wei Zidong
Published: April 2023

To reveal how the size effect and strain effect synergistically regulate the mass activity (MA) and specific activity (SA) of Pt alloy nanocrystal catalysts in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), remains to be difficult due to the highly entangled factors. In this work, six ternary PtCoCu catalysts with sequentially changed composition, size, and compression strain are prepared. It is found that the smaller the alloy particles, the higher the electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) and MA values, that is, the particle size plays a decisive role in the size of the ECSA and MA. While, along alloy size decrease, the intrinsic activity SA first increases, then remains unchanged, and finally rapidly increases again. This detailed analysis shows that for the alloys above 4 nm, it is the surface coordination number that decides the SA, while for those below 4 nm, it is the well‐regulated compression strain that determines the SA. Particularly, Pt47Co26Cu27 demonstrates the MA of 1.19 A mgPt−1 and SA of 1.48 mA cm−2, being 7.9 and 6.4 times those of commercial Pt/C respectively, representing an especially superior ORR catalyst.
Advanced Functional Carbon Nitride by Implanting Semi‐Isolated VO2 Active Sites for Photocatalytic H2 Production and Organic Pollutant Degradation
Authors: Jourshabani Milad , Asrami Mahdieh Razi , Lee Byeong‐Kyu
Published: April 2023

It is critical to facilitate surface interaction for liquid–solid two‐phase photocatalytic reactions. This study demonstrates more advanced, efficient, and rich molecular‐level active sites to extend the performance of carbon nitride (CN). To achieve this, semi‐isolated vanadium dioxide is obtained by controlling the growth of non‐crystalline VO2 anchored into sixfold cavities of the CN lattice. As a proof‐of‐concept, the experimental and computational results solidly corroborate that this atomic‐level design has potentially taken full advantage of two worlds. The photocatalyst comprises the highest dispersion of catalytic sites with the lowest aggregation, like single‐atom catalysts. It also demonstrates accelerated charge transfer with the boosted electron–hole pairs, mimicking heterojunction photocatalysts. Density functional theory calculations show that single‐site VO2 anchored into the sixfold cavities significantly elevates the Fermi level, compared with the typical heterojunction. The unique features of semi‐isolated sites result in a high visible‐light photocatalytic H2 production of 645 µmol h−1 g−1 with only 1 wt% Pt. They also represent an excellent photocatalytic degradation for rhodamine B as well as tetracycline, surpassing the activities obtained from many conventional heterojunctions. This study presents exciting opportunities for the design of new heterogeneous metal oxide for a variety of reactions.
Spinning Liquid Metal Droplets on Ice
Authors: Zhao Xi , Tan Sicong , Zhang Chenglin , Yao Yuchen , Liu Jing
Published: April 2023

The non‐contact and non‐wetting droplet motion isolated from the solid surface has a high degree of freedom and thus can exhibit many peculiar interfacial phenomena. Here, an experimental phenomenon of spinning liquid metal droplets on an ice block is discovered, which adopts the dual solid‐liquid phase transition of the liquid metal and the ice. The whole system is somewhat a variant of the classic Leidenfrost effect, which directly uses the latent heat released by the spontaneous solidification of the liquid metal droplet as a heat source to melt the ice and create an intervening lubricant water film. Interestingly, it is found that the droplets on ice become very mobile and undergo rapid spin as the solidification process proceeds. A series of comparative experiments clarify that the circumferential driving force comes from the escaping bubbles as the ice melts. Furthermore, by comparing the motion characteristics of different kinds of liquid metal droplets and solid balls on ice and investigating their physical properties and heat transfer, it is disclosed that the spin effect can be universal for objects of different materials, as long as the two necessary elements of rapid liquid film establishment and gas bubble release can be satisfied simultaneously.
Particles, Microstructures, and Impact Toughness of CGHAZ of Ca Deoxidation Shipbuilding Steel Plates with Different Nb Contents
Authors: Li Tingting , Yang Jian , Zhang Yinhui , Chen Yanli , Zhang Yuqi
Published: April 2023

Herein, the effects of the Nb content on the particles, microstructure evolution, and mechanical properties of base metal (BM) and high‐heat input coarse‐grained heat‐affected zone (CGHAZ) of shipbuilding steel plates with Ca deoxidation are studied. With increasing Nb content, the strength and microhardness of the BM increase without significant loss of impact toughness. However, in CGHAZ, the average grain size increases from 168 to 244 μm, and the brittle phase fraction increases from 0.33% to 11.76%. The high‐angled grain boundary (HAGB) density in microstructures reduces from 0.35 to 0.19 μm−1, and the average effective grain sizes increase from 10.97 to 12.48 μm. The particles in 40 Nb‐BM and 40 Nb‐CGHAZ are mainly cubic TiN particles. In 170 Nb, except for cubic particles, there are approximately ellipsoid particles with high value of Nb content, which tend to dissolve into matrix at the elevated temperature. With increasing Nb content, the average size of particles in CGHAZ increases from 18.33 to 32.29 nm, and the number density decreases from 13.44 to 10.35 μm−2. Therefore, the impact toughness of CGHAZ decreases from 197 to 96 J at −20 °C under the high‐heat input welding of 400 kJ cm−1.
CO2‐neutrale Mobilität als Herausforderung und Chance
Authors: Hosenfeldt Tim
Published: April 2023

Für eine CO2‐neutrale und nachhaltige Mobilität bieten sich drei Konzepte an: Erstens, die direkte Nutzung der elektrischen Energie für batterieelektrische Fahrzeuge (BEV). Zweitens, über die Wandlung des regenerativ erzeugten Stroms in grünen Wasserstoff als Energieträger für brennstoffzellenelektrische Fahrzeuge (FCEV) und drittens, über die Erzeugung von synthetischen Kraftstoffen aus grünem Wasserstoff. Dabei werden sich die Technologien nach Fahrzeuggewicht, Wegstrecke und notwendiger Antriebsleistung ergänzen. Unabhängig vom Antriebskonzept bietet die Plasmaoberflächentechnik herausragende Möglichkeiten für die Optimierung hochbeanspruchter tribologi‐scher Systeme. So haben sich Triondur PVD‐ und PACVD‐ Schichtsysteme in der Automobilindustrie, wo sie anfänglich zur Vermeidung von Verschleiß eingesetzt wurden, zu einem immer wertvolleren Konstruktionselement zur Steigerung der Energieeffizienz und CO2‐Einsparung durch Reibungsreduzierung entwickelt. So wurden 2018 mehr als 150 Millionen mit Tri‐ondur beschichtete Bauteile weltweit ausgeliefert.

Für die Defossilisierung der Energiekette durch Elektrolyseure und Brennstoffzellen wird die Plasmaoberflächentechnik eine wichtige Schlüsselrolle spielen, um die hohen Anforderungen an die geforderten elektrochemischen Eigenschaften und Qualitätsstandards zu erfüllen.

Für eine CO2‐neutrale und nachhaltige Mobilität wird die Plasma‐Oberflächentechnik unabhängig vom Antriebskonzept immer eine wichtige Schlüsseltechnologie sein und bleiben.
Ultrasound‐guided parasternal block in a cat undergoing median sternotomy for pulmonary lobectomy
Authors: Degani Massimiliano , Dupont Julien , Giansetto Thomas , Claeys Stéphanie , Sandersen Charlotte
Published: April 2023

A 3.25‐kg, 1‐year‐old, European shorthair cat was referred for acute respiratory distress. A thoracic computed tomography revealed the presence of multiple pulmonary abscesses, and a median sternotomy for pulmonary lobectomy was scheduled. The cat was premedicated with methadone and dexmedetomidine, anaesthesia was induced with alfaxalone and maintained with isoflurane in 100% oxygen. Ultrasound‐guided parasternal block was performed before surgery with ropivacaine 0.5% (total dose 3 mg/kg). Rescue analgesia was needed only during abscess debridement and lung lobectomy. Postoperative pain was assessed every hour, using the short‐form Glasgow Feline Composite Measure Pain Scale. The cat required rescue analgesia (0.2 mg/kg methadone) 7 hours after the completion of the block. This case report describes the feasibility of ultrasound‐guided parasternal block in a cat undergoing median sternotomy, suggesting that it can usefully be added to a multimodal analgesic plan in the perioperative period.
Instability analysis of quasicrystal nano‐switch with thermal effect and surface distributed forces
Authors: Huang Yunzhi , Zheng Huayong , Chen Xiuhua , Feng Miaolin
Published: April 2023

Quasicrystal (QC) is a special kind of material with excellent properties such as high hardness, high corrosion resistance, and low surface energy, and becomes promising additions in various nanodevices. In previous lectures, little studies on the dynamic behaviors of nanoscale QC devices were investigated. Based on the nonlocal elasticity theory, nonlinear pull‐in instabilities of QC nano‐switch considering the thermal effect and surface distributed forces are investigated in this paper. The governing equations of the model are derived via the variational principle and the generalized differential quadrature methods. Results reveal that the van der Waals force and the Casimir force reduce the pull‐in voltage and pull‐in phonon and phason displacements of QCs. Moreover, the pull‐in voltage increases with the reduction in phonon‐phason coupling elastic coefficients and the increment in phason elastic coefficients of QCs, indicating the considerable field‐dependence of nanostructures. Besides, the thermal correction of Casimir force and the surface residual tension have different effects on the displacements, and the micro‐mechanism of surface and small‐scale effects is discussed.
Integral Transforms Characterized by Convolution
Authors: Krukowski Mateusz
Published: April 2023

Inspired by Jaming’s characterization of the Fourier transform on specific groups via the convolution property, we provide a novel approach which characterizes the Fourier transform on any locally compact abelian group. In particular, our characterization encompasses Jaming’s results. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the cosine transform as well as the Laplace transform can also be characterized via a suitable convolution property.
Deep vein thrombosis and validation of the Caprini risk assessment model in Chinese orthopaedic trauma patients: a multi-center retrospective cohort study enrolling 34,893 patients
Authors: Zhang Xian , Hao Anqi , Lu Yihan , Huang Weifeng
Published: April 2023

Background

The risk of venous thromboembolism among orthopaedic trauma patients is high, but prevalence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) remains unknown. In addition, the Caprini risk assessment model (RAM) score in orthopaedic trauma patients is undetermined in previous research. This study is aimed to determine the incidence of DVT and then validate the Caprini RAM in orthopaedic trauma patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study enrolling orthopaedic trauma inpatients from seven tertiary and secondary hospitals during a 3-year period (from April 1, 2018 through April 30, 2021). Caprini RAM scores were assessed by experienced nurses on admission. The patients with suspected DVT were verified through duplex ultrasonography by qualified radiologists, and then prospectively followed once a year after discharge.

Results

In total, 34,893 patients were enrolled in our study. The Caprini RAM identified 45.7% of patients at low risk (Caprini score 0–2), 25.9% at medium risk (3–4), and 28.3% at high risk (5–6), highest risk (7–8), and superhigh risk (> 8). Patients with Caprini score > 5 were likely to be older, female, and with longer length of hospital stay. Moreover, 8695 patients had received ultrasonography to detect DVT. The prevalence of DVT was determined to be 19.0% [95% confidence interval (CI) 18.2–19.9%], which significantly increased with Caprini score. The area under curve of the Caprini RAM for DVT was 0.77 (95% CI 0.76–0.78) with a threshold of 4.5. Furthermore, 6108 patients who had received ultrasonography completed the follow-up. DVT patients had a hazard ratio of 1.75 (95% CI 1.11–2.76; P = 0.005) in the mortality, compared to non-DVT ones. Caprini scores were significantly associated with increase in the mortality [odds ratio (OR) 1.14; 95% CI 1.07–1.21; P < 0.001]; DVT remained an independent effect (OR 1.5; 95% CI 1.02–2.26; P = 0.042).

Conclusions

The Caprini RAM may be valid in Chinese orthopaedic trauma patients. Prevalence of DVT and higher Caprini score were significantly associated with increased all-cause mortality among orthopaedic trauma patients after discharge. Further study is warranted to explore the causes of higher mortality in patients with DVT.
Partitioning the forms of genotype-by-environment interaction in the reaction norm analysis of stability
Authors: Waters Dominic L. , van der Werf Julius H. J. , Robinson Hannah , Hickey Lee T. , Clark Sam A.
Published: April 2023

Key message

The reaction norm analysis of stability can be enhanced by partitioning the contribution of different types of G × E to the variation in slope.

The slope of regression in a reaction norm model, where the performance of a genotype is regressed over an environmental covariable, is often used as a measure of stability of genotype performance. This method could be developed further by partitioning variation in the slope of regression into the two sources of genotype-by-environment interaction (G × E) which cause it: scale-type G × E (heterogeneity of variance) and rank-type G × E (heterogeneity of correlation). Because the two types of G × E have very different properties, separating their effect would enable a clearer understanding of stability. The aim of this paper was to demonstrate two methods which seek to achieve this in reaction norm models. Reaction norm models were fit to yield data from a multi-environment trial in Barley (Hordeum vulgare), with the adjusted mean yield from each environment used as the environmental covariable. Stability estimated from factor-analytic models, which can disentangle the two types of G × E and estimate stability based on rank-type G × E, was used for comparison. Adjusting the reaction norm slope to account for scale-type G × E using a genetic regression more than tripled the correlation with factor-analytic estimates of stability (0.24–0.26 to 0.80–0.85), indicating that it removed variation in the reaction norm slope that originated from scale-type G × E. A standardisation procedure had a more modest increase (055–0.59) but could be useful when curvilinear reaction norms are required. Analyses which use reaction norms to explore the stability of genotypes could gain additional insight into the mechanisms of stability by applying the methods outlined in this study.
Two major quantitative trait loci control wheat dwarf virus resistance in four related winter wheat populations
Authors: Buerstmayr Maria , Buerstmayr Hermann
Published: April 2023

Key message

Qwdv.ifa-6A on chromosomes 6AL and Qwdv.ifa-1B on chromosome 1B are highly effective against wheat dwarf virus and act additively when combined.

Wheat dwarf virus (WDV) is among the most damaging viral pathogens. Its prevalence has increased substantially in recent years, and it is predicted to increase even further due to global warming. There are limited options to control the virus. Growing resistant cultivars would safeguard crops, but most current wheat cultivars are highly susceptible. Thus, the aim of this study was to dissect the genetic architecture of WDV resistance in resistant germplasm and to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) to support resistance breeding. QTL mapping was conducted using four related populations comprising 168, 105, 99 and 130 recombinant inbred lines. Populations were evaluated under field conditions for three years. Natural infestation was provoked by early autumn sowing. WDV symptom severity was visually assessed at two time points in spring. QTL analysis revealed two highly significant QTL with the major QTL Qwdv.ifa-6A mapping to the long arm of chromosome 6A between markers Tdurum_contig75700_411 (601,412,152 bp) and AX-95197581 (605,868,853 bp). Qwdv.ifa-6A descends from the Dutch experimental line SVP-72017 and was of high effect in all populations, explaining up to 73.9% of the phenotypic variance. The second QTL, Qwdv.ifa-1B, mapped to chromosome 1B and is putatively associated with the 1RS.1BL translocation, which was contributed by the CIMMYT line CM-82036. Qwdv.ifa-1B explained up to 15.8% of the phenotypic variance. Qwdv.ifa-6A and Qwdv.ifa-1B are among the first identified highly effective resistance QTL and represent valuable resources for improving WDV resistance in wheat.
Spectral Decomposition of Discrepancy Kernels on the Euclidean Ball, the Special Orthogonal Group, and the Grassmannian Manifold
Authors: Dick Josef , Ehler Martin , Gräf Manuel , Krattenthaler Christian
Published: April 2023

To numerically approximate Borel probability measures by finite atomic measures, we study the spectral decomposition of discrepancy kernels when restricted to compact subsets of $$\mathbb {R}^d$$

R

d

. For restrictions to the Euclidean ball in odd dimensions, to the rotation group $$\textrm{SO}(3)$$

SO
(
3
)

, and to the Grassmannian manifold $$\mathcal {G}_{2,4}$$

G

2
,
4

, we compute the kernels’ Fourier coefficients and determine their asymptotics. The $$L_2$$

L
2

-discrepancy is then expressed in the Fourier domain that enables efficient numerical minimization based on the nonequispaced fast Fourier transform. For $$\textrm{SO}(3)$$

SO
(
3
)

, the nonequispaced fast Fourier transform is publicly available, and, for $$\mathcal {G}_{2,4}$$

G

2
,
4

, the transform is derived here. We also provide numerical experiments for $$\textrm{SO}(3)$$

SO
(
3
)

and $$\mathcal {G}_{2,4}$$

G

2
,
4

.
Revisiting Turcotte’s approach: flood frequency analysis
Authors: Krajewski Witold F. , Otto Lindsay , Vishwakarma Srishti , Perez Gabriel
Published: April 2023

Flood frequency estimation forms the basis for engineering design of hydraulic structures, including bridges and culverts, local and regional development planning, and flood insurance. In the United States, the Water Resources Council recommends using the Log-Pearson Type III (LP3) distribution as a standard for use with the annual peak flow data. However, researchers have argued for the use of more than one streamflow value in a year thus increasing the sample size and decreasing the sampling error in the estimates of the flood quantiles. In this study, conducted over Iowa, the authors revisit the method proposed by Donald Turcotte and others to use power-law distribution applied to streamflow peak values for events separated by a time window. In contrast to those earlier studies, the authors applied formal statistical approach based on the maximum likelihood method and Kolmogorov-Smirnov statistic for parameter estimation. They also propose a novel simulation framework for the estimation of the sampling uncertainty of the power-law distribution. They apply the methodology to streamflow data from 62 USGS stream gauges in Iowa. The key finding of the study is that low-probability quantile estimates using Turcotte’s method result in conservative estimates when compared with LP3 distribution confirming the earlier outcomes.
Continuous dependence and convergence for Moore–Gibson–Thompson heat equation
Authors: Pellicer Marta , Quintanilla Ramon
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we investigate how the solutions vary when the relaxation parameter, the conductivity rate parameter, or the thermal conductivity parameter change in the case of the Moore-Gibson-Thompson heat equation. In fact, we prove that they can be controlled by a term depending upon the square of the variation of the parameter. These results concern the structural stability of the problem. We also compare the solutions of the MGT equation with the Maxwell-Cattaneo heat conduction equation and the type III heat equation (limit cases for the first two previous parameters) and we show how the difference between the solutions can be controlled by a term depending on the square of the limit parameter. This result gives a measure of the convergence between the solutions for the different theories.
DNA methylation of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells from donor peripheral blood to patient bone marrow: implications for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Laurenzana Ilaria , De Luca Luciana , Zoppoli Pietro , Calice Giovanni , Sgambato Alessandro , Carella Angelo Michele , Caivano Antonella , Trino Stefania
Published: April 2023

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT) is a life-saving treatment for selected hematological malignancies. So far, it remains unclear whether transplanted hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) undergo epigenetic changes upon engraftment in recipient bone marrow (BM) after AHSCT and whether these changes might be useful in the transplant diagnostics. The purpose of this study was to characterize the whole genome methylation profile of HSPCs following AHSCT. Moreover, the relationship between the observed methylation signature and patient outcome was analyzed. Mobilized peripheral blood (mPB)-HSPCs from seven donors and BM-HSPCs longitudinally collected from transplanted patients with hematological malignancies up to one year from AHSCT (a total of twenty-eight samples) were analyzed using DNA methylation based-arrays. The obtained data showed that DNA methylation of mPB-HSPCs differs between young and adult donors and changes following HSPC engraftment in the BM of recipient patients. Looking at methylation in promoter regions, at 30 days post-AHSCT, BM-HSPCs showed a higher number of differentially methylated genes (DMGs) compared to those of mPB-HSPCs, with a prevalent hyper-methylation. These changes were maintained during all the analyzed time points, and methylation became like the donors after one year from transplant. Functional analysis of these DMGs showed an enrichment in cell adhesion, differentiation and cytokine (interleukin-2, -5 and -7) production and signaling pathways. Of note, DNA methylation analysis allowed to identify a potential “cancer/graft methylation signature” of transplant failure. It was evident in the latest available post-transplant BM-HSPC sample (at 160 days) and surprisingly already in early phase (at 30 days) in patients whose transplant was doomed to fail. Overall, the analysis of HSPC methylation profile could offer useful prognostic information to potentially assess engraftment success and predict graft failure in AHSCT.
Outcomes of solitary postoperative recurrence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed with FDG-PET/CT and treated with definitive radiation therapy
Authors: Ihara Hiroki , Yoshio Kotaro , Tanabe Shunsuke , Sugiyama Soichi , Hashimoto Masashi , Maeda Naoaki , Akagi Shinsuke , Takao Soshi , Noma Kazuhiro , Hiraki Takao
Published: April 2023

Background

Surgical resection of esophageal cancer is frequently performed to achieve a complete cure. However, the postoperative recurrence rate is 36.8–42.5%, leading to poor prognosis. Radiation therapy has been used to treat recurrences; solitary recurrence has been proposed as a prognostic factor for radiation therapy, though its significance is unclear. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography is a highly accurate diagnostic modality for esophageal cancer. This retrospective study aimed to analyze the outcomes of solitary postoperative recurrences of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and treated with definitive radiation therapy.

Methods

We examined 27 patients who underwent definitive radiation therapy for single or multiple postoperative recurrences of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma between May 2015 and April 2021. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography was performed within 3 months before the commencement of radiation therapy. Kaplan–Meier, univariate, and multivariate analyses were performed to examine the overall survival and identify potential prognostic factors.

Results

The 1-, 2-, and 3-year overall survival rates were 85.2%, 62.6%, and 47.3%, respectively, and solitary recurrence was the only significant factor associated with overall survival (P = 0.003). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year overall survival rates in patients with solitary recurrence were 91.7%, 80.2%, and 80.2%, respectively, and in patients with multiple recurrences they were 80.0%, 50.3%, and 25.1%, respectively. Multivariate analysis also showed solitary recurrence as a significant factor for overall survival.

Conclusions

When diagnosed with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography, solitary recurrence appears to have a more favorable prognosis than multiple recurrences.
Analysis and Numerical Approximation of Energy-Variational Solutions to the Ericksen–Leslie Equations
Authors: Lasarzik Robert , Reiter Maximilian E. V.
Published: April 2023

We define the concept of energy-variational solutions for the Ericksen–Leslie equations in three spatial dimensions. This solution concept is finer than dissipative solutions and satisfies the weak-strong uniqueness property. For a certain choice of the regularity weight, the existence of energy-variational solutions implies the existence of measure-valued solutions and for a different choice, we construct an energy-variational solution with the help of an implementable, structure-inheriting space-time discretization. Computational studies are performed in order to provide some evidence of the applicability of the proposed algorithm.
Agronomic performance of soybean and sorghum in a short rotation poplar coppice alley-cropping system under Mediterranean conditions
Authors: Mantino Alberto , Pecchioni Giovanni , Tozzini Cristiano , Mele Marcello , Ragaglini Giorgio
Published: April 2023

The transition from conventional arable towards silvoarable systems can increase the delivery of ecosystem services. Nevertheless, the assessment of crop yield under agroforestry condition is crucial to evaluate of the reliability of these systems and to increase the knowledge base needed to support their design. Although the feasibility of poplar short rotation coppice (SRC) silvoarable alley-cropping systems has been widely investigated, few studies have addressed the agronomic response of crops intercropped with poplar SRC in narrow alleys, especially in Mediterranean environments. Thus, this paper treats the effects of SRC poplar rows on soybean and sorghum productivity in a 2-year rotation implemented in an alley-cropping system. A field experiment was carried out in 2018 and 2019 with the objective of measuring and evaluating effects of light availability variation, as affected by the growing rate of 2-year coppice cycle poplar SRC rows, and the soil characteristics on soybean-sorghum and sorghum–soybean rotations. Above-ground biomass, grain yield and crops residue showed a significant reduction in the tree–crop interface up to 74% and sorghum proved to be less tolerant to light reduction compared to soybean. Our results demonstrated that light is the most important factor for sorghum cultivation, despite grain yield was also influenced by the soil characteristics such as pH, while soybean is affected also by soil moisture and water retention capacity. The design of crop rotation in an SRC-based agroforestry system needs to consider the different agronomic performance of different crops and the harvest cycle of tree rows.
Heritability Estimation of Cognitive Phenotypes in the ABCD Study® Using Mixed Models
Authors: Smith Diana M. , Loughnan Robert , Friedman Naomi P. , Parekh Pravesh , Frei Oleksandr , Thompson Wesley K. , Andreassen Ole A. , Neale Michael , Jernigan Terry L. , Dale Anders M.
Published: April 2023

Twin and family studies have historically aimed to partition phenotypic variance into components corresponding to additive genetic effects (A), common environment (C), and unique environment (E). Here we present the ACE Model and several extensions in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development℠ Study (ABCD Study®), employed using the new Fast Efficient Mixed Effects Analysis (FEMA) package. In the twin sub-sample (n = 924; 462 twin pairs), heritability estimates were similar to those reported by prior studies for height (twin heritability = 0.86) and cognition (twin heritability between 0.00 and 0.61), respectively. Incorporating SNP-derived genetic relatedness and using the full ABCD Study® sample (n = 9,742) led to narrower confidence intervals for all parameter estimates. By leveraging the sparse clustering method used by FEMA to handle genetic relatedness only for participants within families, we were able to take advantage of the diverse distribution of genetic relatedness within the ABCD Study® sample.
Comparing minimum number of individuals and abundance from non-invasive DNA sampling and camera trapping in the red fox (Vulpes vulpes)
Authors: Martin-Garcia Sara , Cortazar-Chinarro Maria , Rodríguez-Recio Mariano , Jiménez José , Höglund Jacob , Virgós Emilio
Published: April 2023

Applying the most appropriate sampling method is essential for estimating population size. Sampling methods and techniques to estimate abundance may be limited by environmental characteristics, species traits, specific requirements of the techniques, or the economic resources to carry out the sampling. Thus, evaluating multiple sampling methods in monitoring populations is essential for establishing effective conservation strategies. In this study, we compare two of the most commonly used sampling methods with the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) as the type species. On the one hand, we compared the minimum number of individuals (NI) detected by camera trapping, identifying individuals by morphological characteristics with the minimum number of individuals detected by DNA faeces and a set of 16 microsatellites. On the other hand, we estimated abundance by performing an N-mixture model using information from camera-traps to study the relationship between abundance and the minimum number of individuals detected. Results showed that the minimum NI provided by camera trapping was slightly higher than that of DNA faecal genotyping, with 23.66 and 19 individuals, respectively. In addition, abundance and NI detected by camera trapping showed a positive relationship. In contrast, there was a non-significant negative relationship between NI detected by faecal DNA and abundance estimates. Our results suggest using the minimum number of photo-identified individuals as a reliable index to study variation in red fox abundance when other advanced methods cannot be implemented in the study of population size. However, it is necessary to improve the methods of faecal sampling to study the relationship with camera-trap data.
Healthy lifespan inequality: morbidity compression from a global perspective
Authors: Permanyer Iñaki , Villavicencio Francisco , Trias-Llimós Sergi
Published: April 2023

Current measures of population health lack indicators capturing the variability in age-at-morbidity onset, an important marker to assess the timing patterns of individuals’ health deterioration and evaluate the compression of morbidity. We provide global, regional, and national estimates of the variability in morbidity onset from 1990 to 2019 using indicators of healthy lifespan inequality (HLI). Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, we reconstruct age-at-death distributions to calculate lifespan inequality (LI), and age-at-morbidity onset distributions to calculate HLI. We measure LI and HLI with the standard deviation. Between 1990 and 2019, global HLI decreased from 24.74 years to 21.92, and has been decreasing in all regions except in high-income countries, where it has remained stable. Countries with high HLI are more present in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia, whereas low HLI values are predominant in high-income countries and central and eastern Europe. HLI tends to be higher for females than for males, and HLI tends to be higher than LI. Globally, between 1990 and 2019 HLI at age 65 increased from 6.83 years to 7.44 for females, and from 6.23 to 6.96 for males. Improvements in longevity are not necessarily accompanied by further reductions in HLI among longevity vanguard countries. Morbidity is compressing, except in high-income countries, where it stagnates. The variability in the ages at morbidity onset tends to be larger than the variability in lifespans, and such divergence broadens over time. As longevity increases worldwide, the locus of health inequality is moving from death-related inequalities to disease- and disability-centered ones.
We are All Rationalists, but it is not Enough: Ways of Explaining the Social Acceptance of a Theory
Authors: Pellegrini Pablo A.
Published: April 2023

This article discusses explanations behind theory choice, that is, ultimately, what leads people to accept a certain claim as valid. There has been a recent debate as to how closure was achieved in the continental-drift discussion. The controversy had found its usual explanation under rationalist terms: Wegener’s 1912 continental-drift theory was accepted 50 years later only after the plate tectonic theory had provided more evidence or a more in-depth problem-solving capacity. Nevertheless, a re-examination of the controversy under constructivist terms argued that closure was achieved by a change in the style of thought. This analysis prompted some authors to react calling to a ‘defence of rationalism’ and insisting on explaining that the continental-drift theory was only accepted because of epistemic reasons. As the debate impacts on the way to explain scientific controversies, in this article I analyze rationalist and constructivist approaches with respect to ways to explain the social acceptance or rejection of a theory. The analytical perspectives will be contextualized within a broader theoretical discussion in philosophy and social sciences about the role of different factors that condition knowledge, which will also include an empirical approximation in the analysis of GMO and continental-drift controversies. Ultimately, the debate with rationalism is situated in a broader context about the ways of explaining the social acceptance of a theory, arguing that the problem with the rationalism that confuses a purely logical explanation with a sociological one is that it tends to judge rather than understand.
The Victim
Authors: Mazur Lucas B.
Published: April 2023

While victimization is as old as human history, the notion of victimhood as currently understood is a relatively recent phenomenon. Over the last several decades, the notion of victimhood has been increasing discussed both within academia and the wider public, a trend that has intensified in recent years. In order to gain a clearer vision of this social phenomenon, the current piece follows the lead of Georg Simmel, and identifies a new Simmelian social type—the Victim. After discussing Simmel’s understanding of social types and tracing the origins of the Victim, we examine some of the characteristics of this new social type. While the Victim is best understood on a high level of abstraction—as are all social types—a richer appreciation of the emergence and nature of the Victim will help us to better understand current discussions around victimhood in both academia and the wider public. These philosophical and sociological reflections on the nature of the Victim can thus be of help for better understanding a social phenomenon of considerable importance in today’s world.
Transgenerational effects influence acclimation to varying temperatures in Aurelia aurita polyps (Cnidaria: Scyphozoa)
Authors: Loveridge Alexandra , Lucas Cathy H.
Published: April 2023

Temperature is one of the most important drivers to affect marine ectotherms in the context of anthropogenic climate change modifying seasonal cycles in temperate regions. To reliably predict the impact of climate variability on marine ectotherms, their capacity to adapt to rapid change needs to be understood. Due to fast transmission between generations, transgenerational effects may enable populations to moderate stressors. We examined reproduction across three temperature scenarios and three generations of asexual Aurelia aurita polyps: transgenerational warming, transgenerational cooling, and stable temperatures. Polyps were incubated at three temperatures (15, 17, 19°C) encountered in summertime in Southampton Water. In the first two polyps generations, temperature remained the main driver of polyp reproduction. However, in the third generation parental and grandparental temperature influenced offspring production. These effects appeared most strongly in cooling scenarios: polyps who experienced rapid cooling between generations displayed an immediate drop in reproductive output as opposed to polyps who remained at the same temperature as their parents. Our results highlight that transgenerational effects may require more extreme temperatures or increased numbers of generations to have a measurable impact on a population, highlighting the vulnerability of these organisms to continued climate change.