bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating plant biomass in agroecosystems using a drop-plate meter
Authors: Robertson Stephen M. , Schmid Ryan B. , Lundgren Jonathan G.
Published: August 2023

Reason for doing the work

Plant biomass is a commonly used metric to assess agricultural health and productivity. Removing plant material is the most accurate method to estimate plant biomass, but this approach is time consuming, labor intensive, and destructive. Previous attempts to use indirect methods to estimate plant biomass have been limited in breadth and/or have added complexity in data collection and/or modeling. A cost-effective, quick, accurate, and easy to use and understand approach is desirable for use by scientists and growers.

Objectives

An indirect method for estimating plant biomass using a drop-plate meter was explored for use in broad array of crop systems.

Methods

Drop-plate data collected by more than 20 individuals from 16 crop types on 312 farms across 15 states were used to generate models to estimate plant biomass among and within crop types.

Results

A linear model using data from all crop types explained approximately 67% of the variation in plant biomass overall. This model performed differently among crop types and stand heights, which was owed to differences among sample sizes and farming between annual and perennial systems. Comparatively, the model using the combined dataset explained more variance in biomass than models generated with commodity specific data, with the exception of wheat.

Conclusions

The drop-plate approach described here was inexpensive, quick, simple, and easy to interpret, and the model generated was robust to error and accurate across multiple crop types. The methods met all expectations for a broad-use approach to estimating plant biomass and are recommended for use across all agroecosystems included in this study. While it may be useful in crops beyond those included, validation is suggested before application.
Evaluación y Monitoreo de la Variación del Contenido de Humedad en Suelo Tropical Compactado Usando Datos GPR
Authors: Pizarro Marchena Irving , Françosob M.T. , Moraes Treiber H. , de Oliveira Stenico N.
Published: August 2023

El rápido deterioro y el desempeño insatisfactorio de los pavimentos, también, están relacionados con la variación y acumulación excesiva de la humedad en la subrasante y en sus capas constituyentes. De ahí que el control de la humedad sea fundamental para asegurar, en parte, la durabilidad y el buen comportamiento de este tipo de estructuras. El Georradar (GPR) ha demostrado ser una potencial alternativa útil para este propósito, dadas sus características no invasivas, preservando la integridad del sitio bajo observación, además de la capacidad de recolectar datos de manera rápida y continua. Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar la sensibilidad del GPR a los cambios de humedad e investigar la influencia que tienen los modelos de calibración en la estimación del contenido de humedad en un suelo tropical compactado. Se utilizaron muestras de suelo laterítico deformado y se sometieron a ensayos para la caracterización de sus propiedades físicas y compactación. Se utilizó una antena GPR de 1600 MHz para la adquisición de datos en un ambiente de laboratorio controlado. En general, los resultados mostraron que el GPR es una alternativa promisoria, con precisión satisfactoria en la evaluación de la humedad y sensibilidad al monitorear cambios en el contenido de humedad en suelos compactados.
“Além das grades”: explorando a influência das variáveis sociodemográficas na Síndrome de Burnout e depressão dos agentes prisionais
Authors: De Oliveira Agostinha Mafalda Barra , Do Vale Aline Francilurdes Nery , Da Silva Pablo Marlon Medeiros , De Sousa Juliana Carvalho
Published: August 2023

Tendo em vista o grau do impacto que doenças psicológicas, como burnout e depressão, gera em profissionais que trabalham no ambiente prisional. O objetivo desse estudo consiste em analisar a influência das variáveis sociodemográficas na relação entre burnout e depressão em agentes prisionais. Para atingir o objetivo da pesquisa, este estudo adotou uma abordagem quantitativa de natureza descritiva, no qual 189 agentes prisionais responderam ao Questionário Sociodemográfico e Funcional (QSF), o Inventário Beck de Depressão (IBD) e o Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), de forma online. Para testar as hipóteses deste estudo foram realizadas Análise de Regressão Linear e Loglinear. Após análises, verificou-se que as variáveis sociodemográficas filhos, estado civil, residência e tempo de serviço moderam a relação entre pelo menos uma das dimensões do burnout (exaustão emocional, despersonalização e baixa realização profissional) e um dos fatores da depressão (cognitivo e somático-afetivo). Este estudo se justifica pela incipiência de pesquisas que versem sobre variáveis moderadoras na relação entre burnout e depressão, principalmente com agentes prisionais. Além de instigar uma reflexão sobre a importância de ações de promoção da saúde mental nesse grupo ocupacional.
Jumping between narrow banks: social spacing of the stream-dwelling montane frog, Crossodactylus trachystomus (Hylodidae)
Authors: Wachlevski Milena , Passos Daniel , Eterovick Paula C
Published: August 2023

Spacing patterns among individuals can reveal many ecological and behavioral features, such as responses to resource availability and social organization. The study of the amphibian movements still constitutes a gap in the knowledge of the animal ecology, and the general issues of the patterns of home range are poorly known to date. Herein, we evaluated the social spacing of a small stream-dwelling frog (Crossodactylus trachystomus), an endemic species from the Espinhaço mountain range in southeastern Brazil. We found that C. trachystomus shows one of the smallest home ranges among anurans, indicating a high philopatry level. We also showed that the home range size did not differ between females and males, neither was influenced by individual body size, which reveals a possible limitation for the use of larger home ranges in riparian systems. The distribution of home ranges showed high overlap among adult males, suggesting a weak territorial behavior or a possible “dear enemy effect” for this species. Beyond expanding the knowledge about the spatial ecology and behavior of the genus Crossodactylus, our outcomes contributed to the understanding of space use and the social organization of frogs, revealing spatial patterns that can be expected for other stream-dwelling frog species.
Silvopastoralismo en la ZEC de Gorbeia (País Vasco): selección espacial y temporal de hábitats forestales
Authors: Urkijo Ainhoa , Ametzaga-Arregi Ibone , Albizu Isabel
Published: August 2023

Debido al aumento del riesgo por sequías e incendios en el País Vasco es necesaria la adopción de prácticas como el silvopastoralismo en la adaptación y mitigación al cambio climático. Así, en este estudio se pretende contribuir a la definición de buenas prácticas para tal gestión mediante el análisis del paisaje y del comportamiento del ganado. El muestreo se llevó a cabo en la ZEC de Gorbeia durante la campaña de 2021. El análisis se realizó en varios rangos de buffer alrededor de los hábitats pascícolas abiertos, a nivel de tesela (tipo de vegetación y rango de pendiente) y en cada mes. Para ver el comportamiento del ganado, se calculó la densidad de registros GPS en cada tesela. De este modo, se observó que los rebollares son los hábitats forestales que más frecuenta el ganado, especialmente en noviembre debido a la producción de bellota. Al mismo tiempo, se observó un gradiente según aumentaba la distancia desde el borde de los hábitats pascícolas en el que influían el tipo de hábitat forestal, FCCARB y el tipo de ganado. En definitiva, se deberían de implantar acciones para la apertura del bosque alrededor de los hábitats pascícolas y se debería de reforzar en zonas con potencialidad como los rebollares.
Flying through the forest canopy: Movement patterns and habitat selection of rescued and wild Harpy Eagles in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Aguiar-Silva Helena , Sanaiotti Tânia Margarete , Martins Sanches Rogério , Bicudo Thiago , Tuyama Carlos Augusto , Junqueira Tiago Guimarães , Albernaz Ana Luisa Kerti Mangabeira
Published: August 2023

We tracked six Harpy Eagles (Harpia harpyja) by satellite telemetry from 2011 to 2021 in the Brazilian Amazonia, analyzing the used area, movements parameters and habitat selection functions for three of them: one adult within its breeding site, one translocated adult, and a four-years old floating subadult. We used the first-passage time to assess the scale at which these individuals respond to the environment, and the behavioral change point analysis to determine behavioral states parameters across trajectories. We fitted a logistic linear regression model with used-available locations and environmental covariates: slope, Terrain Ruggedness Index (TRI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), land cover, and habitat edge as predictor variables. Harpy Eagle locations were highly related with “Forest” land cover and high NDVI values. The subadult and the translocated adult selected for “Secondary Forest” within their home ranges, which highlights the importance of this type of habitat in fragmented landscapes. In addition, we found behavioural differences in the movement paths of rehabilitated individuals of Harpy Eagle that are subsequently released to the wild. In conclusion, we suggest including in conservation management not only the nest tree and its immediately surrounding but also an area over landscape scale to optimize and promote the functional connectivity, with a safe and efficient dispersion of immatures. Linking Harpy Eagle´s movement locations to resources (land cover, NDVI), risks (forested habitat edge) and environmental conditions (slope, terrain ruggedness) is an opportunity to learn about habitat selection by this large canopy predator. The Harpy Eagle movement ecology has a potential relationship with the spatial dynamics of prey in the forest canopy, which needs to be further addressed in future research.
Online Learning Among Primary and Middle School Children in Rural Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India- A Story of Inequitable Distribution
Authors: Punitha K Margaret , Lakshmi PA Archana , Vedhamani K Thendral , Chandramoulie Srinidhi , Paul Christina Mary P , Stephen T
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disrupted education and has resulted in a lot of educational losses which is bound to be more exaggerated in the rural areas. The present study was done to assess the availability of prerequisites for online learning among a rural population. The study also looks at the school dropout rates due to the COVID-19 pandemic in a rural population in Tamil Nadu, India. Aim: To estimate the access to digital devises and school dropout rates in a rural population, to find the hassles faced due to online learning and to identify the risk factors for dropping out of school. Materials and Methods: The present community based crosssectional study was conducted in the rural field practice areas of Karpagavinaya Medical College (KVMC) situated in Chinna Kolambakkam beyond Chengalpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India and data collection was done between June 2021 and August 2021, using a semi-structured proforma. Data was collected from 256 children between the ages of 6-14 years residing in a rural area in Tamil Nadu, to learn about their transition in education during the pandemic and to identify the factors determining dropping out of school. Associations between school dropouts and socio-demographic factors were found using Chi-square test. Results: Out of total study participants, 131 (51.2%) belonged to primary school and the rest belonged to the middle school category and there were 138 (53.9%) boys and 118 (46.1%) girls. Of all the study participants, 39 (15.2%) had dropped out of school. Dropouts had a statistically significant association with lower socio-economic status (p-value=0.00000007), lower educational status of the father (p-value=0.043), male gender (p-value=0.037) and belonging to a private school (p-value=0.045). Only 25 (9.7%) owned the gadget, they were using to attend online classes. Conclusion: The current study has revealed high school dropout rates (15.2%) than rural primary and middle school children with inadequate access to digital devises.
Removal of Congo Red Dye Using Ficus benghalensis-Assisted Copper Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Shabir Tayyaba , Hassan Warda , Abbas Nasir , Fakhar-Un-Nisa  , Akhtar Muhammad Nadeem , Yaseen Zobia , Yaseen Ammara , Ihsan Ayesha , Khan Mariam
Published: August 2023

Novel water purification technologies are emerging to satisfy the requirement of clean drinking water for human life. The development of long-term water treatment systems is a serious concern. In this regard, nanotechnology holds enormous promise for improving the effectiveness and efficiency of polluted water remediation. The goal of this work was to create a simple and effective water purification system that used cost-effective, durable, and environmentally friendly novel materials. Green nanoparticle synthesis has emerged as a result of recent advancements in environmentally friendly technologies. The use of plant extract to synthesize nanoparticles is thought to be an incredible green strategy.

In the present study, leaf extract of Ficus benghalensis was chosen to synthesize the low cost and novel copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles. The aim was to investigate the ability of these novel nano particles in removing Congo red dye from water. Various parameters including contact time, adsorbent dosage, initial dye concentration and pH of dye solution that affect the adsorption were optimized by carrying out batch adsorption experiments. The mechanism of pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, Langmuir equilibrium isotherm, and Freundlich isotherm was investigated using kinetic and equilibrium experimental data. These models gave an insight into the adsorption kinetics and adsorption mechanism. The pH effect revealed that Congo red dye being an acidic dye showed good adsorption at acidic pH.  The findings of this work show that copper oxide nanoparticles are promising adsorbents for the removal of Congo red dye from aqueous based system.
Unveiling the Biomedical Potential of Hypnea valentiae: Isolation and Characterization of Phytochemicals with Anticancer Activity
Authors: Dhanki Abhishek , Odedra Kunal N. , Jadeja B. A.
Published: August 2023

Biologically active chemicals with anticancer properties have been discovered in marine Rhodophyceae seaweed Hypnea valentiae, coastal red algae species, was obtained from the coasts of Porbandar and Kuchhdi, Gujarat, India. In this present study, marine red algae Hypnea valentiae extract is used for the analysis of physicochemical, phytochemical Chromosomal Aberrations and MTT anti-cancer activity. Despite tremendous advancements in medicine, infectious diseases continue to pose a significant threat to public health. Various synthetic medications have developed resistance to infectious diseases in recent years. As a result, medicinal plants contain a variety of phytochemicals that can be used to treat a variety of oxidative stress-related diseases. The Proanthocyanidin content of Hypnea valentiae (0.11mg/g) and physicochemical parameter like of moisture in the seaweed was 88.98 %, the amount of ash was 16.95 % and Carbonated ash accounted for 26.67%. The physicochemical parameters like different ash values and moisture content are plant-specific and they help to ensure the purity of the drug and also prevent adulteration. MTT assay against HeLa cell line human cervical cancer was used to estimate cell viability and outcomes showed excellent results against HeLa cell lines Human cervical cancer cell lines. In our experiment on Chromosomal Aberrations Seaweed H. valentinea cannot damage normal chromosomes and cannot affect any part of chromosomes or chromatin. Based on these results, it is concluded that the marine macro seaweed extracts from the Gujarat coast have cytotoxic against cancer cells and have potential, which could be considered for identifying novel natural drugs and future applications in medicine from the marine resources.
Determinants of Community HIV Index Testing among HIV Index Clients in Yirol West County, South Sudan
Authors: Nyinypiu Zachariah Mabor , Mogere Dominic , Mugo Judy Wairimu
Published: August 2023

Background: Index case HIV/AIDS testing  is a useful approach for addressing and enhancing the efficiency and yield of testing in high-risk populations among the high-risk groups for contracting HIV/AIDS partners and relatives of those existing with the disease.

Objective: The research aimed to establish the determinants of community HIV index testing among HIV index clients in Yirol West County, South Sudan.

Methods: The research employed an analytical cross-sectional research strategy, where a mixed approach entailing both questionnaire guides and interview guides were utilized. The sample size was premeditated using Fischer's formula where 252 study respondents were recruited in this study. The chi-square test and regression (logistic analysis) were applied to identify the determinants of community HIV clients index testing. For qualitative data, thematic analysis was carried out. While data collection took one month, the entire study consumed one year to be completed.

Results: The utilization of community HIV index testing services was low in this study with only 24.2 % of the study respondents reporting utilizing these health services. Discussing HIV testing and counseling services (OR=3.3,95%CI=0.11-0.84),counseling to bring family members for HIV testing(OR=1.9,95%CI=0.29-0.97), and education level(OR=6.1,95%CI=0.04-0.65) was found to increase the odds of utilizing community HIV index testing. The presence of stigma (OR=8.3,95% CI=0.05-0.24) and lack of trust (OR=2,95%CI=0.27-0.96) among healthcare providers reduced the odds of utilizing community HIV index testing.

Conclusion: The utilization of community HIV index testing services was low. Discussing HIV testing and counseling services, the status of marriage, gender, age, counseling to bring family members for HIV testing .and education level were found to increase the odds of utilizing community HIV index testing while the presence of stigma and discrimination, and duration lived with a partner lack of trust among health care providers reduced the odds of utilizing community HIV index testing. There is a need to put the necessary measures to enhance the increased uptake of community HIV index testing services.
Virological Follow-up of Adults Living with HIV on Dolutegravir in an Approved Treatment Center in Douala (Cameroon)
Authors: Grâce Ngondi Dalle , Vital Boma Bang Luc , Josiane Essola , Sides Ndjengue Nson Louis , Christiane Medi Sike , Gisèle Nke Ateba , Calixte Penda Ida , Cécile Okalla Ebongue , Pierre Nda Mefoo Jean
Published: August 2023

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus infection constitutes one of the greatest contemporary human pandemics, lethal in the absence of treatment. WHO 2018 recommendations have placed Dolutegravir-based treatment as first-line treatment, particularly in resource-limited countries. The aim of this work was to study the evolution of virological parameters in people undergoing treatment with this molecule.

Methodology: This was an analytical cross-sectional study of people aged 25 and over, received since January 2015 at the Approved Treatment center of Laquintinie Hospital in Douala (Cameroon). After plasma collection and centrifugation, viral load was determined on the Abbott m2000TM platform, targeting the Pol gene. The detection threshold was greater than or equal to 40 copies/mL. Data analysis was performed using Excel and SPSS version 20 softwares.

Results: A total of 504 people were selected, with an average age of 48±11 years and a predominance of women (70.8%). Antiretroviral treatment had been initiated at clinical stage 1 in over 80% of participants. The TDF/3TC/EFV regimen prior to initiation of Dolutegravir was used in 93.5% of cases. Mean weight after initiation of treatment was 75.9 kg. People with a viral load <40 copies/ml before starting Dolutegravir therapy accounted for 332 (65.9%) of cases, compared with 91.1% six months after starting treatment. Weight (>75kg) (95% CI, OR=1.112-2.381, p=0.012) and non-adherence (95% CI, OR=2.790-25.613, p=0.001) were considered factors associated with viral load variation.

Conclusion: The ARV protocol comprising two nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors and Dolutegravir improves virological response in people living with HIV at all clinical stages.
The Environmental Impact of the Alaoji-Onitsha Transmission Line Project and Resettlement Action Plan
Authors: Uzodinma B. U. , Agbagwa I. O.
Published: August 2023

Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) is a pivotal part of managing resettlement-related activities, so as to avert dispute and agitation that might emanate in anticipation to disruption to means of livelihood by impacted persons. This study aimed to ascertain the environmental implications of Alaoji-Onitsha Transmission Line (TL) in the context of the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for the Project Affected Persons (PAPs). The study adopted standard methodology for physical environment and biodiversity assessment. The finding on the severity of the impact on the physical environment revealed that air quality, soil and geology have minor residual impacts, noise level and surface and groundwater have negligible residual impact. The impact significance on land use was found to be high, with medium residual impact. Although the findings suggest that the project does not have dire consequence on the environment, the resettlement should be carried out in a way that will guarantee continuous survival of PAPs and utmost care be taken to ensure sustainable development.
The Effect of Inventory Control on Patients with Acute and Chronic Illness during Pre, Peri and Post COVID-19 Pandemic in India
Authors: Shailaja K. , Sundar S. Shyam , Priya A. Lakshmi , Roshini M.
Published: August 2023

Aim: To determine the effect of inventory control protocols on patient's health management systems during the pre; peri and post COVID – 19 pandemic in India.

Study Design: An analytical observation type of study.

Place and Duration of Study: A tertiary care hospital, between June 2020 to November 2022.

Methodology: We collected the stock movement data of 10 brand drugs that include Acute disease medications and Chronic condition medication, from hospital pharmacy, at pre, peri & post-COVID times. These drugs were selected for their common usage. The study of inventory based on data collected, will show how the pharmacy managed its inventory during the pandemic era. The pharmacy practised the collaborative method of ABC – FSN inventory method to meet demands and the same has continued during COVID-19.

Results: Data collected on 5 drugs for acute diseases showed an average percentage increase of 62.33% in drug consumption between the pre and post-COVID period whereas the 5 drugs for chronic conditions show an increase of 86.39%. The hospital pharmacy managed the high range of demand with the successful model of inventory control. It is evidence of the successful use of ABC – FSN analysis in the hospital sector during the pandemic (COVID-19).

Conclusion: The study concluded that the ABC – FSN inventory approach was helpful during the pandemic and concentrates mainly on the effect of inventory control on patients with chronic and acute diseases.
Fatores para não doação de órgãos e tecidos em uma unidade de terapia intensiva neurológica / Factors for non-donation of organs and tissues in neurological intensive care unit
Authors: Dos Santos Shirlene Cerqueira , Dourado Mavy Batista , Assis Mineia Pereira da Hora , Silva Mabel Olimpia Lima Silva , Santos Raisa Noelia Sant’Ana Souza , De Souza Anna Paula Lima
Published: August 2023

Objetivo: identificar os fatores relacionados a não doação de órgãos e tecidos em potenciais doadores com diagnóstico de morte encefálica, em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neurológica. Método: estudo descritivo, transversal, retrospectivo, documental com abordagem quantitativa, de protocolos de morte encefálica, no período de maio de 2017 a maio de 2020 e analisados através do programa Statistical Package for Social Sciences, versão 22.0, por meio de estatística descritiva. Resultados: foram finalizados 72 protocolos de morte encefálica, predominância do sexo feminino (63,9%), pardas (66,2%), na faixa etária de 50 a 64 anos (43,1%), descreve-se como principal causa a hemorragia subaracnoidea (40,3%), com o desfecho de doação não efetiva (62,1%) e o principal fator para não doação a recusa familiar (45,7%). Conclusão: salienta-se a necessidade de um maior investimento em campanhas educativas, com o intuito de reduzir os índices de recusa familiar.
Prevalence of Use of Potentially Inappropriate Medications Among Older Adults Worldwide
Authors: Tian Fangyuan , Chen Zhaoyan , Zeng Ya , Feng Qiyi , Chen Xi
Published: August 2023

Importance

The use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) is widespread yet continues to receive little attention in outpatient services.

Objective

To estimate the overall prevalence of PIM use in outpatient services.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched to identify relevant studies published from January 1, 1990, to November 21, 2022.

Study Selection

Observational studies that reported the prevalence of PIM use among older patients in outpatient services were screened.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two reviewers independently selected eligible articles, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to pool the prevalence estimates.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The global patterns in the prevalence of PIM use among older patients in outpatient services were estimated, and the temporal trends and regional differences in PIM use were investigated.

Results

A total of 94 articles with 132 prevalence estimates were analyzed, including nearly 371.2 million older participants from 17 countries. Overall, the pooled prevalence of PIM use was 36.7% (95% CI, 33.4%-40.0%). Africa had the highest prevalence of PIM use (47.0%; 95% CI, 34.7%-59.4%), followed by South America (46.9%; 95% CI, 35.1%-58.9%), Asia (37.2%; 95% CI, 32.4%-42.2%), Europe (35.0%; 95% CI, 28.5%-41.8%), North America (29.0%; 95% CI, 22.1%-36.3%), and Oceania (23.6%; 95% CI, 18.8%-28.8%). In addition, the prevalence of PIM use is highest in low-income areas. Use of PIMs among older patients has become increasingly prevalent in the past 2 decades.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study of patterns of PIM use by different groups, such as geographic regions and World Bank countries, suggests noticeable geographic environment and economic income differences in the burden of PIMs in outpatient services. Furthermore, the high prevalence trend in the past 2 decades indicates that the global burden of PIM use continues to be worthy of attention.
Angular correction methodology and characterization of a high‐resolution CMOS array for patient specific quality assurance on a robotic arm linac
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Ramish , Krimmer Jochen , Zalavri Laszlo , Gu Xuejun , Wang Lei , Chuang Cynthia Fu‐Yu
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To develop an angular correction methodology and characterize a high‐resolution complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) array for patient specific quality assurance on a robotic arm linear accelerator.

Methods

Beam path files from the treatment planning software (TPS) were used to calculate the angle of radiation beam with respect to the detector plane. Beams from multiple discrete angles were delivered to the CMOS detector array and an angular dependency look up table (LUT) was created. The LUT was then used to correct for the angular dependency of the detector. An iso‐centric 5 mm fixed cone, non iso‐centric multi‐target fixed cone, 10 mm Iris and a multi‐leaf collimator (MLC) based collimated plan were delivered to the phantom and compared to the TPS with and without angular correction applied. Additionally, the CMOS array was compared to gafchromic film and a diode array.

Results

Large errors of up to 30% were observed for oblique angles. When angular correction was applied, the gamma passing rate increased from 99.2% to 100% (average gamma value decreased from 0.29 to 0.14) for the 5‐mm iso‐centric cone plan. Similarly, the passing rate increased from 84.0% to 100% for the Iris plan and from 49.98% to 98.4% for the MLC plan when angular correction was applied. For the multi‐target plan, applying angular correction improved the gamma passing rate from 94% to 99.6%. The 5 mm iso‐centric fixed cone plan was also delivered to film, and the gamma passing rate was 91.3% when using gafchromic film as the reference dataset, whereas the diode array provided insufficient sampling for this plan.

Conclusion

A methodology of calculating the beam angle based on the beam path files was developed and validated. The array was demonstrated to be superior to other quality assurance tools because of its sub‐millimeter spatial resolution and immediate read out of the results.
Programmable and Ultrasensitive Haptic Interfaces Enabling Closed‐Loop Human–Machine Interactions
Authors: Lin Wansheng , Wei Chao , Yu Shifan , Chen Zihan , Zhang Cuirong , Guo Ziquan , Liao Qingliang , Wang Shuli , Lin Maohua , Zheng Yuanjin , Liao Xinqin , Chen Zhong
Published: August 2023

Intuitive, efficient, and unconstrained interactions require human–machine interfaces (HMIs) to accurately recognize users' manipulation intents. Susceptibility to interference and conditional usage mode of HMIs will lead to poor experiences that limit their great interaction potential. Herein, a programmable and ultrasensitive haptic interface enabling closed‐loop human–machine interactions is reported. A cross‐scale architecture design strategy is proposed to fabricate the haptic interface, which optimizes the hierarchical contact process. The synergistic optimization of the cross‐scale architecture between carbon nanotubes and the multiscale sensing structure realizes a haptic interface with ultrahigh sensitivity and a wide detection range of 15.1 kPa−1 and 180 kPa, which are improved by more than 900% over the performance of the common interface. The rapid response time of <5 ms and the limit of detection of 8 Pa of the haptic interface far surpass the somatosensory perception of human skin, which enables the haptic interface to accurately recognize interactive intents. A wireless pressure‐data interactive glove (wireless PDI glove) is designed and realizes a round‐the‐clock operation, noise immunity, and efficient interactive control, which perfectly compensate for the flaws of typical vision and voice recognition modes.
Boosted N2 Activation through 4f–2p–3d Orbital Hybridization for Efficient Nitrate Electrosynthesis
Authors: Li Shuyuan , Wang Xiaoxuan , Chi Xinyue , Xiong Yuanyuan , Sun Yanfei , Tang Zheng , Gao Xueying , Zhang Huiying , Li Jingxian , Nie Kaiqi , Xie Jiangzhou , Yang ZhiYu , Yan Yi‐Ming
Published: August 2023

The electrochemical N2 oxidation reaction (NOR) has emerged as a promising approach for achieving high selectivity in nitric acid (HNO3) production. However, the sluggish N2 activation process in NOR due to the high cleavage energy barrier of the N≡N bond remains a challenge. Herein, a novel orbital hybridization strategy for tuning the NOR performance through the construction of cerium (Ce) 4f–O 2p–Co 3d network in Ce‐doped Co3O4 (Ce–Co3O4) is proposed. The Ce–Co3O4 catalyst exhibits an enhanced HNO3 yield of 24.76 µg h−1 mgcat−1 and a promoted Faradaic efficiency of 31.93% in 0.1 m Na2SO4 electrolyte under ambient conditions compared to those of the pure Co3O4 (13.75 µg h−1 mgcat−1 and 23.43%). Density functional theory caculations demonstrate the strong 4f–2p–3d orbital hybridization and electron transfer in Ce–Co3O4. Moreover, a series of in situ techniques provide direct evidence of stronger adsorption peaks for Co─N bond and the key intermediate *NO formed after N2 activation on the surface of Ce–Co3O4. This work provides a promising route for the preparation of efficient NOR catalysts and sheds light on the mechanism of N2 activation through orbital hybridization.
Manganese‐Based Redox Homeostasis Disruptor for Inducing Intense Ferroptosis/Apoptosis Through xCT Inhibition And Oxidative Stress Injury
Authors: Dong Qi , Wang Jie , Liu Jiahui , Zhang Lei , Xu Zhigang , Kang Yuejun , Xue Peng
Published: August 2023

Intracellular redox homeostasis plays an important role in promoting tumor progression, development and even treatment resistance. To this end, redox balance impairment may become a prospective therapeutic target of cancer. Herein, a manganese‐based homeostasis modulator (MHS) is developed for inducing severe reactive oxygen species accumulation and glutathione (GSH) deprivation, where such redox dyshomeostasis brings about dramatic ferroptosis/apoptosis. Tumor‐specific degradation of manganese oxide nanocarriers contributes to hypoxia alleviation and loaded cargo release, resulting in apoptosis by augmented sonodynamic therapy and chemodynamic therapy. On the other hand, regional oxygenation significantly downregulates the expression of activating transcription factor 4, which can synergize with the released sulfasalazine to inhibit the downstream cystine antiporter xCT. Biosynthesis of GSH is sufficiently interrupted by the xCT suppression, leading to the reduction of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) level. The resultant excessive lipid peroxides promote intense ferroptosis to motivate cell death. On this basis, splendid treatment outcome by MHS is substantiated both in vitro and in vivo, thanks to the synergy of antitumor immunity elicitation. Taken together, this paradigm provides an insightful strategy to evoke drastic ferroptosis/apoptosis toward therapeutics and may also expand the eligibility of manganese‐derived nanoagents for medical applications.
Modeling the Maturation of the Vocal Fold Lamina Propria Using a Bioorthogonally Tunable Hydrogel Platform
Authors: Zou Xiaoyu , Zhang He , Benson Jamie M. , Gao Hanyuan , Burris David L. , Fox Joseph. M. , Jia Xinqiao
Published: August 2023

Toward the goal of establishing an engineered model of the vocal fold lamina propria (LP), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are encapsulated in hyaluronic acid (HA)‐based hydrogels employing tetrazine ligation with strained alkenes. To mimic matrix stiffening during LP maturation, diffusion‐controlled interfacial bioorthogonal crosslinking is carried out on the soft cellular construct using HA modified with a ferocious dienophile, trans‐cyclooctene (TCO). Cultures are maintained in MSC growth media for 14 days to afford a model of a newborn LP that is homogeneously soft (nLP), a homogeneously stiffened construct zero (sLP0) or 7 days (sLP7) post cell encapsulation, and a mature LP model (mLP) with a stiff top layer and a soft bottom layer. Installation of additional HA crosslinks restricts cell spreading. Compared to the nLP controls, sLP7 conditions upregulate the expression of fibrous matrix proteins (Col I, DCN, and FN EDA), classic fibroblastic markers (TNC, FAP, and FSP1), and matrix remodeling enzymes (MMP2, TIMP1, and HAS3). Day 7 stiffening also upregulates the catabolic activities, enhances ECM turnover, and promotes YAP expression. Overall, in situ delayed matrix stiffening promotes a fibroblast transition from MSCs and enhances YAP‐regulated mechanosensing.
Tuneable Anisotropic Plasmonics with Shape‐Symmetric Conducting Polymer Nanoantennas
Authors: Duan Yulong , Rahmanudin Aiman , Chen Shangzhi , Kim Nara , Mohammadi Mohsen , Tybrandt Klas , Jonsson Magnus P.
Published: August 2023

A wide range of nanophotonic applications rely on polarization‐dependent plasmonic resonances, which usually requires metallic nanostructures that have anisotropic shape. This work demonstrates polarization‐dependent plasmonic resonances instead by breaking symmetry via material permittivity. The study shows that molecular alignment of a conducting polymer can lead to a material with polarization‐dependent plasma frequency and corresponding in‐plane hyperbolic permittivity region. This result is not expected based only on anisotropic charge mobility but implies that also the effective mass of the charge carriers becomes anisotropic upon polymer alignment. This unique feature is used to demonstrate circularly symmetric nanoantennas that provide different plasmonic resonances parallel and perpendicular to the alignment direction. The nanoantennas are further tuneable via the redox state of the polymer. Importantly, polymer alignment could blueshift the plasma wavelength and resonances by several hundreds of nanometers, forming a novel approach toward reaching the ultimate goal of redox‐tunable conducting polymer nanoantennas for visible light.
Pulsed‐Laser‐Triggered Piezoelectric Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction over Tetragonal BaTiO3 Nanocubes
Authors: Wang Yijie , Li Xiao , Chen Yuke , Li Yue , Liu Zhen , Fang Chaoqiong , Wu Tong , Niu Hongsen , Li Yang , Sun Wanggen , Tang Wenjing , Xia Wei , Song Kepeng , Liu Hong , Zhou Weijia
Published: August 2023

The recombination of photoinduced carriers in photocatalysts is considered one of the biggest barriers to the increase of photocatalytic efficiency. Piezoelectric photocatalysts open a new route to realize rapid carrier separation by mechanically distorting the lattice of piezoelectric nanocrystals to form a piezoelectric potential within the nanocrystals, generally requiring external force (e.g., ultrasonic radiation, mechanical stirring, and ball milling). In this study, a low‐power UV pulsed laser (PL) (3 W, 355 nm) as a UV light source can trigger piezoelectric photocatalytic CO2 reduction of tetragonal BaTiO3 (BTO‐T) in the absence of an applied force. The tremendous transient light pressure (5.7 × 107 Pa, 2.7 W) of 355 nm PL not only bends the energy band of BTO‐T, thus allowing reactions that cannot theoretically occur to take place, but also induces a pulsed built‐in electric field to determine an efficient photoinduced carrier separation. On that basis, the PL‐triggered piezoelectric photocatalytic CO2 reduction realizes the highest reported performance, reaching a millimole level CO yield of 52.9 mmol g−1 h−1 and achieving efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction in the continuous catalytic system. The method in this study is promising to contribute to the design of efficient piezoelectric photocatalytic reactions.
Dynamic Surface Reconstruction of Amphoteric Metal (Zn, Al) Doped Cu2O for Efficient Electrochemical CO2 Reduction to C2+ Products
Authors: Jia Yufei , Ding Yunxuan , Song Tao , Xu Yunlong , Li Yaqing , Duan Lele , Li Fei , Sun Licheng , Fan Ke
Published: August 2023

The recognition of the surface reconstruction of the catalysts during electrochemical CO2 reduction (CO2RR) is essential for exploring and comprehending active sites. Although the superior performance of Cu–Zn bimetallic sites toward multicarbon C2+ products has been established, the dynamic surface reconstruction has not been fully understood. Herein, Zn‐doped Cu2O nano‐octahedrons are used to investigate the effect of the dynamic stability by the leaching and redeposition on CO2RR. Correlative characterizations confirm the Zn leaching from Zn‐doped Cu2O, which is redeposited at the surface of the catalysts, leading to dynamic stability and abundant Cu–Zn bimetallic sites at the surface. The reconstructed Zn‐doped Cu2O catalysts achieve a high Faradaic efficiency (FE) of C2+ products (77% at –1.1 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)). Additionally, similar dynamic stability is also discovered in Al‐doped Cu2O for CO2RR, proving its universality in amphoteric metal‐doped catalysts. Mechanism analyses reveal that the OHC–CHO pathway can be the C–C coupling processes on bare Cu2O and Zn‐doped Cu2O, and the introduction of Zn to Cu can efficiently lower the energy barrier for CO2RR to C2H4. This research provides profound insight into unraveling surface dynamic reconstruction of amphoteric metal‐containing electrocatalysts and can guide rational design of the high‐performance electrocatalysts for CO2RR.
SSRNet: A Deep Learning Network via Spatial‐Based Super‐resolution Reconstruction for Cell Counting and Segmentation
Authors: Deng Lijia , Zhou Qinghua , Wang Shuihua , Zhang Yudong
Published: August 2023

Cell counting and segmentation are critical tasks in biology and medicine. The traditional methods for cell counting are labor‐intensive, time‐consuming, and prone to human errors. Recently, deep learning‐based cell counting methods have become a trend, including point‐based counting methods, such as cell detection and cell density prediction, and non‐point‐based counting, such as cell number regression prediction. However, the point‐based counting method heavily relies on well‐annotated datasets, which are scarce and difficult to obtain. On the other hand, nonpoint‐based counting is less interpretable. The task of cell counting by dividing it into two subtasks is approached: cell number prediction and cell distribution prediction. To accomplish this, a deep learning network for spatial‐based super‐resolution reconstruction (SSRNet) is proposed that predicts the cell count and segments the cell distribution contour. To effectively train the model, an optimized multitask loss function (OM loss) is proposed that coordinates the training of multiple tasks. In SSRNet, a spatial‐based super‐resolution fast upsampling module (SSR‐upsampling) is proposed for feature map enhancement and one‐step upsampling, which can enlarge the deep feature map by 32 times without blurring and achieves fine‐grained detail and fast processing. SSRNet uses an optimized encoder network. Compared with the classic U‐Net, SSRNet's running memory read and write consumption is only 1/10 of that of U‐Net, and the total number of multiply and add calculations is 1/20 of that of U‐Net. Compared with the traditional sampling method, SSR‐upsampling can complete the upsampling of the entire decoder stage at one time, reducing the complexity of the network and achieving better performance. Experiments demonstrate that the method achieves state‐of‐the‐art performance in cell counting and segmentation tasks. The method achieves nonpoint‐based counting, eliminating the need for exact position annotation of each cell in the image during training. As a result, it has demonstrated excellent performance on cell counting and segmentation tasks. The code is public on GitHub (https://github.com/Roin626/SSRnet).
Bag Boundaries for Quasispinor Confinement Within Nanolanes on a Graphene Sheet
Authors: Koohsarian Yusef , Naji Ali
Published: August 2023

The problem of bag boundary conditions within a field‐theoretic approach is revisited to study confinement of massless Dirac quasispinors in monolayer graphene. While no‐flux bag boundaries have previously been used to model lattice termination sites in graphene nanoribbons, a generalized setting is considered in which the confining boundaries are envisaged as arbitrary straight lines drawn across a graphene sheet and the quasispinor currents are allowed to partially permeate (leak) through such boundaries. Specifically focus is on rectangular nanolanes defined as areas confined between a pair of parallel lines at arbitrary separation on an unbounded lattice. It is shown that such nanolanes exhibit a considerable range of bandgap tunability depending on their widths and armchair, zigzag, or intermediate orientation. The case of nanoribbons can be derived as a special limit from the nanolane model. In this case, certain inconsistencies are clarified in previous implementations of no‐flux bag boundaries and show that the continuum approach reproduces the tight‐binding bandgaps accurately (within just a few percent in relative deviation) even as the nanoribbon width is decreased to just a couple of lattice spacings. This accentuates the proper use of boundary conditions when field‐theoretic approaches are applied to graphene systems.
Anti‐Gephyrin Antibodies: A Novel Specificity in Patients With Systemic Sclerosis and Lower Bowel Dysfunction
Authors: McMahan Zsuzsanna H. , Kulkarni Subhash , Andrade Felipe , Perin Jamie , Zhang Chengxiu , Hooper Jody E. , Wigley Fredrick M. , Rosen Antony , Pasricha Pankaj J. , Casciola‐Rosen Livia
Published: August 2023

Objective

Autoantibodies are clinically useful in phenotyping patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Gastrointestinal (GI) function is regulated by the enteric nervous system (ENS) and commonly impaired in SSc, suggesting that the SSc autoimmune response may target ENS antigens. We sought to identify novel anti‐ENS autoantibodies with an aim to clinically phenotype SSc GI dysfunction.

Methods

Serum from a patient with SSc with GI dysfunction but without defined SSc‐associated autoantibodies was used for autoantibody discovery. Immunoprecipitations performed with murine myenteric plexus lysates were on‐bead digested, and autoantigens were identified by mass spectrometry. Prevalence was determined, and clinical features associated with novel autoantibodies were evaluated in a SSc cohort using regression analyses. The expression of gephyrin in human GI tract tissue was examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

We identified gephyrin as a novel SSc autoantigen. Anti‐gephyrin antibodies were present in 9% of patients with SSc (16/188) and absent in healthy controls (0/46). Anti‐gephyrin antibody–positive patients had higher constipation scores (1.00 vs 0.50, P = 0.02) and were more likely to have severe constipation and severe distention/bloating (46% vs 15%, P = 0.005; 54% vs 25%, P = 0.023, respectively). Anti‐gephyrin antibody levels were significantly higher among patients with severe constipation (0.04 vs 0.00; P = 0.001) and severe distention and bloating (0.03 vs 0.004; P = 0.010). Severe constipation was associated with anti‐gephyrin antibodies even in the adjusted model. Importantly, gephyrin was expressed in the ENS, which regulates gut motility.

Conclusion

Gephyrin is a novel ENS autoantigen that is expressed in human myenteric ganglia. Anti‐gephyrin autoantibodies are associated with the presence and severity of constipation in patients with SSc.
A multimodal approach can identify specific motor profiles in autism and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: De Francesco Stefano , Morello Luisa , Fioravanti Mariachiara , Cassaro Cristina , Grazioli Silvia , Busti Ceccarelli Silvia , Nobile Maria , Molteni Massimo , Crippa Alessandro
Published: August 2023

It is still unclear whether and to what extent the motor difficulties are specific to autism. This study aimed to determine whether a multimodal assessment of motor skills could accurately discriminate autistic children from attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and typically developing (TD) peers. Seventy‐five children, aged 7–13, equally divided into three groups, were assessed with the developmental coordination disorder questionnaire (DCDQ), the movement assessment battery for children 2 (MABC2), the sensorimotor subtests of NEPSY‐II, and the kinematic analysis of a reach‐to‐drop task. Principal component analysis (PCA) on DCDQ subscales revealed one factor—Caregiver Report—, whereas MABC2/NEPSY‐II scores identified three factors—namely, Object Interception and Balance, Motor Imitation, and Fine‐Motor Skills—. Lastly, PCA on kinematic variables identified four factors: PC1, loaded by the parameters of velocity and acceleration throughout the task, PC2 and PC3 involved the temporal parameters of the two submovements, and PC4 accounted for the wrist inclination at ball drop. When comparing autistic and TD children, Caregiver Report and Motor Imitation factors predicted membership with 87.2% of accuracy. In the model comparing ADHD and TD groups, Caregiver Report and Fine‐Motor Skills predicted membership with an accuracy of 73.5%. In the last model, the Object Interception and Balance factor differentiated autistic children from ADHD with an accuracy of 73.5%. In line with our previous findings, kinematics did not differentiate school‐aged autistic children from ADHD and TD peers. The present findings show that specific motor profiles in autism and ADHD can be isolated with a multimodal investigation of motor skills.